In the days leading up to their departure, Collins and his family were a whirlwind of activity, preparing themselves for the journey to Lara’s world. Jane gathered essential supplies, Stella ensured everyone had appropriate attire for the occasion, and Max made arrangements for their affairs back home.
As they gathered in the foyer, ready to embark on their adventure, they exchanged nervous yet excited glances. “Are we really doing this?” Jane whispered, her voice trembling with anticipation.
Stella nodded, her eyes shining with determination. “Yes, we are. We’re going to support Collins in this.”
Max placed a reassuring hand on Jane’s shoulder. “We’re in this together, as a family.”
With a wave of Lara’s hand, a shimmering portal appeared before them. “Are you ready?” she asked, her voice tinged with excitement.
Collins took a deep breath and nodded, his heart pounding with anticipation. “Let’s do this.”
One by one, they stepped through the portal, entering a world unlike any they had ever seen. They found themselves in the grand foyer of King Arthur’s royal castle, surrounded by opulence and beauty beyond imagination.
Everywhere they looked, there were exquisite tapestries adorning the walls, ornate chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and lush carpets underfoot. The throne room, where King Arthur, Queen Zara, and Lara held court, was a sight to behold.
The thrones themselves were massive, carved from the finest wood and adorned with intricate designs. Zara’s throne was adorned with jewels, while Arthur’s was adorned with symbols of his reign. Lara’s throne, positioned between them, was equally magnificent, a testament to her status as a goddess.
As they took in the splendor of the kingdom, King Arthur approached them with a warm smile. “Welcome, travelers,” he said, his voice resonating with kindness. “I am honored to have you in my kingdom.”
Queen Zara, radiant in her regal attire, embraced each of them in turn, her warmth enveloping them like a comforting embrace. “Welcome, dear friends,” she said, her voice filled with genuine affection. “You are always welcome here.”
She turned to the maidens standing nearby. “Take our guests to the mortal chambers,” she instructed. “They must be weary from their journey. And prepare a feast fit for royalty. We shall dine together after they have refreshed themselves.”
As they were led away, Jane couldn’t help but marvel at the grandeur of Lara’s kingdom. “This is incredible,” she whispered to Collins. “I never imagined…”
Collins smiled, his heart full with gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with his family. “I know,” he replied. “It’s beyond anything we could have imagined.”
As the family of Collins, Max, Jane, and Stella were led to their respective chambers, they marveled at the opulence surrounding them. Each room was decorated with exquisite tapestries, plush furnishings, and intricate artwork.
In Collins’ chamber, he found himself in awe of the grand canopy bed, adorned with silk sheets and velvet pillows. Max’s chamber boasted a cozy fireplace and a writing desk overlooking the kingdom. Jane’s room was adorned with shelves of ancient books and a balcony offering breathtaking views of the castle gardens. Stella’s chamber featured a luxurious vanity and a wardrobe filled with elegant gowns fit for a queen.
After freshening up and changing into their finest attire, they were summoned by King Arthur and Queen Zara to join them for dinner. The table was set with an array of sumptuous dishes, from roasted meats to savory pies to delicate pastries.
As they sampled each dish, the flavors exploded in their mouths, leaving them eager for more. The conversation flowed effortlessly as they dined, sharing stories and laughter.
Meanwhile, Lara took the opportunity to introduce Collins to her mother. “Mother, this is Collins,” she said, her voice filled with pride. “The man I love.”
Queen Zara smiled warmly at Collins. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Collins,” she said. “Lara has spoken highly of you.”
King Arthur, intrigued by the mortal wedding, turned to Lara. “Tell us more about this mortal wedding, my dear,” he said, his eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Lara took a deep breath before revealing, “Father, Mother, Collins is not just a mortal. The Lord of the Universe has bestowed upon him the status of a demi-god.”
King Arthur’s eyes widened in astonishment. “A demi-god?” he exclaimed. “This is remarkable news!”
Queen Zara nodded in agreement. “Indeed, it is. Collins, you are truly blessed to have our daughter’s love.”
As they continued to dine, King Arthur and Queen Zara shared stories of battles fought and victories won, expressing their desire for Collins to join them in future battles as a demi-god.
“We could use someone like you by our side, Collins,” King Arthur said, his voice filled with excitement. “Together, we can conquer any challenge that comes our way.”
After dinner, as they bid farewell to Lara’s family, Max stepped forward to express his gratitude. “Thank you for welcoming us into your home,” he said, his voice filled with sincerity. “We are truly honored to be here.”
Three days after Collins and his family arrived in the alternate universe of King Arthur, the grand wedding ceremony commenced. King Arthur and Queen Zara, with their divine powers, sent out telepathic invitations to all the gods and lords, inviting them to witness the union of their daughter, Lara, with the mortal man, Collins.
On the day of the wedding, the kingdom buzzed with excitement as guests from far and wide arrived, dressed in their finest attire. Collins and his family were adorned in royal garments, fitting for the grand occasion.
Lord Sylas, the father of Arthur, and Sendia, the mother of Queen Zara, along with other gods and lords, honored the ceremony with their presence, filling the grand hall with their majestic presence.
The royal maidens served a feast fit for the gods, with dishes that tantalized the senses and left everyone craving for more. As the night progressed, laughter and music filled the air as guests danced and reveled in the joyous occasion.
Finally, King Arthur tapped his wine glass, calling for attention. With a proud smile, he addressed the assembled guests, expressing his admiration for Lara’s strength and resilience. He spoke of Collins with fondness, praising his love and devotion to his daughter.
With a solemn gesture, King Arthur placed his staff of authority on Collins and Lara, blessing their union and granting them his royal approval. Queen Zara followed suit, embracing the couple and bestowing her blessings upon them with warm hugs and kisses on the cheeks.
As the ceremony concluded, the invited guests erupted in joyous cheers and applause. Lara and Collins, their hearts overflowing with love, shared a tender kiss, their spirits lifting as they levitated in the air, surrounded by the love and blessings of all who witnessed their union. As the wedding festivities came to a close, Lords and gods alike embraced Lara and Collins, offering their blessings and well wishes before departing the castle through various means of flight and teleportation.
Hellas, a close friend of Lara, approached her with tears of joy in her eyes. “My Princess, I’m so happy for you,” she said, embracing her tightly. “You’ve found your one true love.”
Lara smiled, returning the embrace. “Thank you, Hellas. I couldn’t have done it without your support.”
In the final moments with her parents, King Arthur and Queen Zara, Lara felt overwhelmed with emotion. They embraced her tightly, tears of joy streaming down their cheeks as they expressed their love and pride.
Collins and his family, Max, Stella, and Jane, shared a joyful hug, their hearts full of happiness for their son’s new journey. “I still can’t believe you got married this young,” Max joked, causing laughter to fill the room.
Their moment was interrupted by a sudden thunderous clap, followed by the appearance of a portal materializing before them. Curious, they wondered who might be gracing them with their presence.
The voice of Lord Universe echoed throughout the castle, addressing Lara and Collins. “It is time to fulfill your destinies. Walk through the portal, for the people of Salma need you.”
Lara and Collins, still dressed in their royal attire, turned to look at their parents. King Arthur gave a final nod of approval, and with hands intertwined, they walked slowly into the portal.
Once more, Lord Universe’s voice resonated through the castle, addressing both families. “Arthur, Zara, Max, and Stella, this day marks the beginning of a new story for Lara, the goddess of light, and Collins, the mortal god. Fear not, for destinies must be fulfilled.”
King Arthur and Queen Zara bowed in respect to Lord Universe, and Max, Stella, and Jane quickly followed suit. Max whispered to his wife and daughter, “Let’s remain here for an additional three days,” as they watched the portal close, knowing that their loved ones were embarking on a journey of great importance.
(The end)