Camille projected her voice. “Evelyn Connolly, tonight you married King Alexander Ducasse. This makes you a queen in the Kingdom of Gryon. Do you accept this role?”
“Yes.”
“Will you stand by your husband and support him as sovereign?”
“Yes.”
“Can you accept this kingdom as your home?”
“Yes.”
“Do you swear to put the good of the kingdom above all else?”
“Yes.”
“Will you defend the well-being of your subjects?”
“Yes.”
“Please lower your head.”
Evelyn did so, grateful she didn’t have to try kneeling in her dress. A silver crown materialized in Camille’s grasp. It was embedded with sapphires and diamonds, perfectly matching Evelyn’s ring.
Camille settled the crown on Evelyn’s head. “Rise and state your name.”
Evelyn lifted her head, realizing how much heavier a crown was than a tiara. “Evelyn Ducasse, Queen of the Kingdom of Gryon.”
The lords of the four courts arranged themselves at the foot of the dais, bowing to her in turn.
“The Vision Court welcomes you as our queen. The Auclair family is your ally.”
“The Auditory Court welcomes you as our queen. The Fontaine family is your ally.”
“The Aromatic Court welcomes you as our queen. The Lafleur family is your ally.”
“The Taste Court welcomes you as our queen. The Barbeau family is your ally.”
General Savatier and Magalie joined the line.
“The Royal Army will fight for you.”
“The Royal Guard will protect you.”
Leo broke protocol and bounded onto the dais to make a pledge of his own. “The king promises to love you,QueenEvelyn.”
He dipped Evelyn and kissed her. A wolf whistle echoed off the walls, but no one could ever prove it was Damien. Laughterfilled the room while the lords, general, commander, and queen mother returned to their seats.
Leo and Evelyn remained on the dais, moving to the center and joining hands.
“King Alexander,” Evelyn said. “You have already gained the magic of your kingdom. As your wife, I offer you my power as well. Will you take magic from your bride?”
“Yes.”
She touched his chest and gold light flowed between them. Leo gasped as magic tore into him, but he pinned Evelyn’s hand before she could remove it.
A gust of wind blew across the room, pushing all the floating candles to one side. Flames appeared high above them, writhing in an inferno before a sudden rainstorm washed them away. The ground momentarily shook beneath their feet. Finally, everything stopped and the golden light disappeared.
Many of the guests cried out, shocked by the Elemental magic that was much more powerful than the illusions they were used to. Evelyn had seen the spectacle when her father became a king, but Leo’s eyes were wide.
