The Village Guardians Ch. 2-10

+The Village Guardians+

-Chapter #2: Joy and Shadows-

>Part # 10<

Continued from Part #9...

Written by Dr. Mack Foxx and Aaraboga Jones

Ages 13+ Suggested

Original Story, Characters and all other Original Content are Copyright 1987-2008 Philip “Dr. Mack Foxx” Byard and Aaron “Aaraboga Jones” Byard

Poke’mon and all related content and characters are Copyright 1995-2008 to Nintendo, Game Freak, Creatures and The Poke’mon Company

-66-
The sun had slowly risen over the mountainous horizon with brilliant, fiery colors. The spectacular sky around Gardev almost seemed to herald the arrival of a very grand spectacle: Enrique and Anna’s wedding day. Mack and Aura were enjoying the early morning hours together as they helped each other get dressed in their shimmering and shining wedding attire. Mack was already wearing his jewel encrusted dress, white satin slippers and his ornate, white cape. Aura was humming the wedding march to herself as Mack tenderly laced up her dress once again. As soon as Mack had threaded the soft laces through their golden loops and tied them off in a nice bow, there was some soft scratching at the bedroom door.

“Come on in, William,” said a cheerful Mack just before the door creaked open, revealing a smiling Pikachu.

“Good morning, Mack and Aura!” exclaimed William with delight as he scurried into the room. Mack carefully secured the two buttons on Aura’s collar.

“Good morning, you little cutie,” giggled Aura.

“You have no idea,” said William as he grinned at his Gardevoir owners, “You can’t make me wear a bow to the wedding this time and there’s nothing you can do about it!”

“Is that so?” said Aura as she placed her hands on her waist, “You know that means we’re going to have to sick Anna on you.”

“Not a problem,” said a very confident and unafraid William, “Anna told me just yesterday that she has something special planned for me today. Sorry guys, but you can’t use Anna as a threat this time. ” Mack and Aura said nothing. The Guardians glanced at each other, trying not to laugh and were by no means going to warn their imperiled friend.

“Well, I’m going to go get some breakfast,” said William happily as he walked nonchalantly out of the room, “And judging by the smells coming from the kitchen, breakfast is going to be quite the treat today.” William softly closed the door behind him, leaving the perplexed Guardians in their bedroom.

“I think William may have dabbled into far more than he realizes,” chuckled Mack, “You think we should warn him?”

“Personally, I think we should just let him suffer,” said Aura, smiling mischievously at her mate, “Then, he’ll never complain about wearing a bow or dressing up ever again.”

“So I see,” said Mack, smiling as Aura sat down at her vanity, “A wise husband takes his wife’s counsel to heart. Besides, I like your idea quite a bit, my devious princess.”

“I knew you’d agree,” giggled Aura as Mack helped his mate put on her jewelry and ornate lace veil. Meanwhile, Agatha was working hard on breakfast as usual. The delighted chef wanted to prepare something special today as this would be Anna’s last meal as a single Gardevoir. Alexander, Aurora, Glacian, Gloria, Fredrick and Sakura eventually emerged from their guest rooms in the mansion and soon were all sitting down at the massive, dark oak table on the mansion’s main dining room. Warren was there too and was quite glad that Mack had managed to patch up the large hole in the very fine oak dining room table. Though the kitchen door had been blown off its hinges from a considerable explosion and the door had been embedded several inches into the fancy table, not a scratch or even a single trace remained to remind anyone of that memorable day. The three married couples were all in their glamorous wedding attire and were sitting quietly as Anna, Ramirez and Angel all entered into the room and proceeded to sit down at the table.

“Breakfast will be ready soon!” said a joyful Agatha, “I made something special, just for the happy bride to be!” As soon as Agatha had finished her sentence, Mack and Aura entered into the dining room, hand in hand. It was then when the Guardians noticed something different about Alexander and Aurora.

“Let me guess,” said Mack with delight as he and Aura sat down to the table, side by side, “You two let Angel get her clutches on your wedding attire too?” Alexander and Aurora laughed warmly: their wedding dresses were now just like Mack and Aura’s except that their dresses were decorated with small diamonds as opposed to the colorful and much larger gems on the Guardian’s more stunning wedding attire.

“Good morning,” said Aura with a bright smile as the Gardevoirs greeted one another with friendly voices.

“Yes,” said Angel happily, “Glacian and Gloria insisted I redo their great grandchildren’s wedding dresses, too.”

“I want all the married members of my family to be some of the most beautiful among other married couples in their wedding attire,” said Glacian with happiness, “Anyone who sees you in your fabulous attire will know you’re very important.”

“Speaking of which, thank you very much, Angel,” said an elated Anna, “I couldn’t have dreamed of a more beautiful wedding dress!” Angel smiled at the young bride to be and then turned her gaze upon Ramirez, who smiled and blushed at her. It was then when Agatha walked into the room, carrying breakfast on a large, silver platter. She happily hummed the wedding march with excitement and joy as she carefully placed the silver platter onto the table.

“For the beautiful bride to be and all her family…!” declared Agatha with pride, “…I’ve made French toast, stuffed with sweet cream cheese, we have russet potato hash browns and fresh sausage! There’s coffee, milk, herbals teas and several kinds of juice if any of you would like something to drink. Plus, there’s fresh, whipped butter, some preserves and pure maple syrup for the French toast. Enjoy!”

“I should have hired you ages ago,” said an amazed Warren.

“You’re darn right!” laughed Agatha as she left the dining room. Warren and his Gardevoir friends eagerly ate their breakfast.

“This is wonderful!” said Anna with immense delight as she savored a bite of the fresh, French toast, “But I would rather have had ice cream.” Anna just grinned and the other Gardevoirs glanced nervously at each other all after they heard a loud metallic “Bang!” from the kitchen.

“I’m just kidding!” shouted a smiling Anna.

“Since it’s your wedding day, I’m going to let it slide this time!” yelled Agatha from the kitchen with loud laughter, “I’ll see you later, my dear! I’ve never seen a Gardevoir wedding before, so I sure don’t want to miss it!” It wasn’t long until the Gardevoirs and the old mayor of Gardev had finished off the marvelous breakfast. The time was now 9:30 and the wedding would begin at noon. At that point, Anna, Alexander, Aurora, Glacian, Gloria, Ramirez and Angel left for the Gardev church to get Anna dressed up and ready for one of the most wonderful days she would ever have. William tagged along too, following happily behind the group of delighted Gardevoirs with absolutely no clue on what was about to happen to him.

-67-
Simon, on the other hand, knew very well what he was dealing with. As promised, Anna had given him and Agatha the menu for the upcoming wedding feast. Simon had snorted with contempt when his suspicions were confirmed: Anna had requested a long list of decadent deserts. Simon was not surprised at all and knew very well that Anna loved sweets. The main course is what had caught his attention: cheeseburgers and French fries. Simon did not want to admit it, but in all his years as a chef, he had never learned how to make such a trivial and common dish. Agatha could see Simon’s frustration by the look on his face.

“You give up too easily, Simon,” cackled Agatha as she lined up a surprising array of ingredients on a nearby counter. The time was 10:10 AM and Simon and Agatha were well on their way to getting the food ready for the reception. All that remained was the main course, the only part of the meal that Simon dreaded.

“This is absurd,” grumbled Simon, “Besides, how on earth can someone turn a cheeseburger into something grand?” Agatha cackled again and smiled at the sullen Kabutops.

“You just need the right stuff,” said Agatha proudly as she stepped aside and let Simon get a good, long look at her impressive arsenal, “Let’s see: I have truffles, imported from France, white truffle oil, various cheeses and all of them imported from Europe. The buns are in the ovens and also made from the finest ingredients and spices I could muster. To top it all off, I have the usual condiments and fried portabella mushrooms for anyone who doesn’t want truffles. The meat is the finest, ground sirloin or steak I could find in the Alakaz markets. Trust me, the wedding guests won’t see it coming, but they’ll be dining on the finest cheeseburgers ever made in the Gardev region.”

“Sheesh…” said Simon, “What would you say each burger would normally cost, if I may please know?”

“Oh, about $500 per plate,” replied Agatha, much to Simon’s surprise, “And that’s not including the French fries. Only the finest and most expensive potatoes, oils and spices for my French fries!” Simon was stunned.

“That… is most impressive…” said an astonished Simon.

“My secret recipe, too,” said Agatha with a wink, “It took me several years to weed out the bugs, but that dish was always my biggest hit with casual diners. I find it funny that people would actually pay $600 per person to savor the finest cheeseburgers and fries in all of Gardev, maybe the world.”

“Then Enrique and Anna’s wedding feast is going to be one to remember after all,” said Simon with a smile, feeling better.

“You bet it will!” said Agatha with warm laughter, “Now, I’ll get the meat ready and I’ll show you how to make the best burgers you’ll ever taste.” While Simon was feeling overjoyed to be working under such a talented and kind chef, William was screaming as loud as he could when Anna showed the terrified Pikachu what he was going to wear for the day.

“No!!” shouted William, “You can’t make me wear that!”

“Oh, yes you are!” said Anna with sadistic laughter, “You gave me your word that you would do anything to help make my wedding day even more special, so this is what you get to do.” William could not believe how easily he had been trickled. Now, he was going to have to wear not just a pink bow on his head, but custom-made pink slippers as well as frilly, fluffy pink dress.

“They’re all your size, William,” giggled Anna as she held out the dress to the mortified Pikachu, “Angel spent weeks making these for you, so you’d best be respectful and let the master seamstress see the results of her hard work.”

“Now way!” said William defiantly as he stuck his tongue out at Anna. Despite his cruel fate, William was hoping he could somehow complain enough to get out of wearing a dress to the wedding. After all, he knew Anna could just use her psychic powers to either keep him floating in the air while she got him dressed or could simply teleport the offending clothes onto him. Simon had overheard the commotion all the way from the kitchen. He set off to investigate why William was being so loud and so frantic. He got his answer when he opened the door to one of the church’s conference rooms as laid eyes on the pink and fluffy attire that Anna had picked out for him.

“Simon!” said William with relief, “Get me out of here!” Simon grinned mischievously at William. Now the little rodent was going to pay for his ignorance.

“Tell me, Anna,” said Simon as he walked into the room, “Did William promise he would to do anything to make your wedding day all the more memorable?”

“Yes he did,” replied Anna with a bright smile.

“So I see,” said Simon as he glanced at William, “Then you’re stuck William and have to do what she says.”

“WHAT?!!” howled William as loud as he possibly could.

“To go back on your word would be most dishonorable,” said Simon as his massive claws shone brightly, “And you know I’ll never tolerate that.” William gulped and then glanced at Simon and then at his new, fluffy prison.

“Okay…” grumbled William, “I’ll do it…”

“That’s a good Pikachu,” said Simon mockingly as he left the room and gently closed the door behind him. William looked up at Anna with pleading eyes, but it was too late. Anna smiled as she picked William off the floor with both her hands and set him gently on a nearby table.

“At least I’m not making you wear makeup or jewelry,” said Anna, “Otherwise; you would be wearing earrings, bracelets and a tiara at the very least.” William sighed loudly, not relieved in the very least by this news as he stepped into the pile of pink fluff that was going to be his attire for the day. Anna couldn’t be happier as she pulled the soft dress up William’s body, helped him put his arms into the small, puffed sleeves and then tied up the small, pink laces to close the back of the dress’s bodice. William looked up at the ceiling as Anna put the slippers on his feet and tied them tightly in place. The whole ensemble was complete was Anna clipped a large, shimmering pink bow into the short fur on the depressed Pikachu’s head.

“There!” said Anna with great delight, “You’re all set to go and you look oh so pretty!”

“Yay…” grumbled William as Anna looked him over.

“Now, twirl for me,” ordered Anna with a soft voice. William snorted and then twirled on his tiptoes. Anna giggled with glee as the soft petticoats under the dress rustled.

“Does this dress make me look fat?” asked William sarcastically.

“Nope!” answered a smiling Anna, “You look perfect.”

“Now, I have to wear this for the entire day, right?” asked William with dread. Anna smiled and nodded her head.

“Just for the day,” said a cheerful Anna, “And for tolerating this, I’ll have a little treat for you when the day is over, so long as you don’t complain or try anything stupid.”

“Very well,” said William with a heavy sigh as Anna took him up in her arms.

“If only you had been a little Ralts,” giggled Anna, “Then you would actually like this.”

“Yeah, yeah…” grumbled William, “Can I go now?”

“Not quite,” said Anna as she gently set the angry Pikachu back on the floor. Before William could realize what was happening, Anna had reached behind his back and clipped a small padlock on the laces of the dress.

“Now you can go,” said a happy Anna.

“Thanks…” said William with a scowl as he stormed out of the room. Anna smiled as she clipped the key on a gold chain and put the glimmering necklace on around her neck.

“Now, I should go get dressed too. Angel and Aurora will be waiting for me,” thought a blissful Anna as she left and then locked the small conference room door tight. Meanwhile, her mate to be was already dressed up in his wedding attire. Carl and Samantha could not have been more delighted as they gazed at their son in his wedding dress and ornate, flowing cape.

“Our son is going to be a prince,” giggled a happy Samantha.

“We’re so proud of you,” said Carl with joy, “Taking a mate is a big and wonderful step for any young Gardevoir.” Enrique was wearing a dress much like Mack’s, down to the decorative embroidery, except his dress was not adorned with any gems. Nevertheless, Enrique’s dress was something most Gardevoir grooms or even Gallades could only dream about.

“Mom, dad…” said a very nervous Enrique, “…I’m scared.”

“So was I when I got married,” said Carl reassuringly, “It’s nothing unusual.”

“When Carl saw me coming down the aisle to finally become his mate, all his anxiety and fear disappeared,” said Samantha with a bright smile, “I’ll never forget the look on his face.”

“I’m… just worried…” said Enrique with great hesitation, “About my… wedding night…”

“I see,” said Carl softly, “I understand how you feel.”

“Well, it’s not about Anna and I going to bed together for the first time,” said Enrique, blushing deeply, “I’m afraid of what might happen when I get my… wings.”

“You don’t have to be afraid,” said Samantha tenderly as she lovingly embraced her only child, “You heard what the other members of the royal family said: when the wings are born there is no pain. Nothing horrific happens either, it just feels weird and you feel very weak until the wings come forth. After that, you will have a wonderful gift that nearly all other Gardevoirs will never get to have and experience. Most importantly, you will be a member of the royal family of Olympus and have a beautiful princess to stand with you for the rest of your life.”

“Thanks you, Mom…” said Enrique as a single tear of joy streamed down his face.

“I have an idea,” said Carl with renewed joy, “I think I know just the thing to help you.” Enrique smiled, feeling his courage renewed as his father pulled out the pair of ornate Japanese swords from a nearby closet.

“I thought we said he shouldn’t wear those swords to the wedding,” said Samantha.

“I think you can agree that our son needs all the help he can get,” said Carl as he hastily put the white belt with its two swords around Enrique’s waist.

“Good point,” said Samantha happily, “You’re right, my love.” She could sense Enrique’s feelings as he was reunited with his ornate and shining swords.

“This is going to be a first,” said Carl happily, “I think our son is going to be the first male Gardevoir married with fine weapons on his possession.”

“Thank you so much, Mom and Dad!” said Enrique with immense confidence as he embraced his overjoyed parents.

“You’re very welcome, my son,” said Carl.

“You’re welcome, Enrique,” said Samantha as she started to cry with great happiness. The two delighted parents and their eager son held each other for several joyful minutes before they finally broke their embrace.

“Well, what should I do now?” asked Enrique.

“Well my son, you should head to the sanctuary and up to the altar to await the arrival of your bride,” said a smiling Carl, “Samantha and I need to get dressed and then we’ll be right there in the front row to watch.”

“Thank you again,” said Enrique as he slowly left the room, holding his shimmering and decorated skirt with his left hand. Carl and Samantha let out a blissful sigh, watching as their son left the room in his wedding splendor.

“If our son is dressed up so beautifully, then I can only imagine how well adorned the bride is going to be,” giggled Samantha and Carl closed the door to the room. As the proud Gardevoirs helped each other into their own wedding dresses, their son’s bride to be was almost ready herself. Aurora was standing behind Anna in her new wedding attire, tenderly lacing up her daughter’s wedding dress. Aurora had easily spent the last several minutes, slowly getting Anna’s dress, slippers, lace veil, jewelry and the decorated garter together: she was savoring the moment as she tied off the soft, white laces in a bow and then fastened the pair of buttons on the back of Anna’s stand up collar.

“You sure are taking your time,” remarked a giggling Anna, “Not that I’m complaining or anything.”

“I have to,” said Aurora with a bright on her face, “You may very well be the last bride I’m ever going to get to help out on her wedding day like this.”

“I can understand that,” said Anna with glee as she slowly stepped away from her mother and took another good, long look at herself in a large, nearby mirror. The dress was a lot like Aura’s, but instead of diamonds, the fine embroidery was accented with hundreds of ½ Karat pink tourmaline gemstones. The buttons on the back of her collar was made of pink tourmaline, too. Angel sat in a chair at the back wall of the room, relishing the sight of her completed work.

“I just love pink!” giggled Anna with sheer delight, “Oh, Angel, thank you so much for making this wonderful dress for me!”

“My pleasure,” said a smiling Angel, “In fact, I just saw your mate to be go down the hallway before I came in here.”

“Oh! What was he wearing?” asked Anna eagerly.

“You know the tradition,” said Aurora as she led Anna to a stool in front of a vanity, “The bride and groom don’t get to see each other’s wedding attire until moments before they are married.” Anna stared into the vanity’s mirror and sat still for many more minutes while Aurora helped her beloved daughter with her jewelry. The bracelets, anklets, earrings were all made out of gold and were adorned with 2 karat pink tourmaline stones. The tiara also had pink tourmaline, but the pink stones were alternating with large, glistening diamonds. Anna patiently sat still as her loving mother got all of her jewelry in place. Eventually, Anna was finally ready to go to the sanctuary when Aurora gently placed the beautiful tiara and lace veil into her daughter’s soft, green hair. Anna stood up and took one last look at herself in the mirror: this would be the last time she would ever gaze at herself in a mirror as a single Gardevoir.

“Angel, it’s time we went to the sanctuary,” said Aurora happily as she tightly embraced Anna, “As for you, my lovely daughter, Alexander will be coming for you shortly. So, you’d best prepare yourself for what awaits you today.” Anna giggled and smiled as she blushed deeply. Aurora smiled at Anna and slowly closed the door to the room as Anna sat down on the vanity’s stool. She couldn’t help but admire herself in the mirror. Suddenly, Anna remembered something she had nearly forgotten.

“I almost forgot my katana and wakizashi!” thought Anna as she frantically opened a nearby closet and removed the white belt with its Japanese blades in tow. Slowly and tenderly, she put the belt on around her waist and under the soft, lace veil. She then stood in front of the large mirror and swiftly drew the shimmering katana out of its golden scabbard. It was quite a sight to see Anna standing there in all her wedding splendor, standing in a battle stance with a deadly Japanese sword held out, ready to strike. She gripped the katana tightly in her hands and with one quick, fluid motion, slid the glimmering blade back into its ornate scabbard. She continued to gaze at her beautiful dress and jewelry in the mirror, waiting patiently for her father to come and take her to the sanctuary and, most importantly, to Enrique, her prince to be.

-68-
The time was now 11:55 AM and the wedding would start in only a matter of minutes. It was another pleasant, sunny day in Gardev: the bright sunlight was streaming through the immense and colorful stain glass windows. The residents of Gardev would never have even dreamed of missing another extravagant wedding, so they all came to the immense church, ready to witness Enrique and Anna’s marriage with hundreds of Gardevoirs and other Pokémon. Mack, Aura, Fredrick, Sakura and Aurora were all sitting in the front pew as the other wedding guests talked quietly amongst themselves. Angel was sitting behind the royal family members with Andrew, Karen, Wallace and Jean. All the married Gardevoir couples were in their wedding attire, as demanded by tradition. Andrew and Karen had never been to a Gardevoir wedding before and were amazed by all the couples in their beautiful white dresses and sparkling jewelry.

“This is like a scene from a fairy tale,” giggled Karen happily as she leaned against her loving mate, “Everyone is here, dressed up in their best and most beautiful clothes.”

“That’s because Gardevoirs hold marriage in very high regard,” said Angel quietly as she smiled at her mother, “It’s both an honor and a grand responsibility to have a mate.”

“Not to mention wonderful,” said Jean with a cheerful voice as she held hands with Wallace.

“And we’re going to get to watch you and Ramirez get married next year, too,” said Andrew eagerly.

“I can’t wait…” said Angel with a blissful sigh.

“That makes two of us,” said Ramirez as he turned around, getting yet another good look at his bride to be. Angel smiled and blushed at her handsome mate to be. Once again, Xavier had to poke his head and long neck through an open window in order to get a decent view of the wedding. Despite the pleasant atmosphere, the great Lugia was in a foul mood.

“Sometimes I hate being so big…” muttered Xavier. Meanwhile, Eric, Alvin, Cecil, Andre and David were sitting in the same pew as Angel and her relatives near one of the stain glass windows.

“I remember how much fun we had last year at Fredrick and Sakura’s wedding,” said a happy Eric, “Makes me wonder what kind of surprises are in store for us this time.” Though his comrades were very happy and very delighted to be at this wedding, Alvin was somewhat sullen as he reclined against the back of the dark wooden pew. The two groups of six Alakazams sat behind the five, former Cipher agents.

“What’s troubling you, my friend?” asked Thanatos quietly to his former trainer.

“Maybe it’s nothing,” whispered Alvin as he sat up straight, “But I have this foreboding feeling that something is dreadfully wrong.” Thanatos nodded his head.

“Is it about the wedding?” asked Thanatos.

“No…” replied Alvin with concern, “It’s about something elsewhere. It’s like something is beaconing me to return to and explore the remains of my old Cipher base near Alakaz.”

“We can help you check it out,” said Cecil with a friendly tone of voice, “Maybe the Guardians would like to help as well?”

“Maybe they will,” said Alvin as he shrugged his shoulders.

“Enough of this gloomy chatter,” said David forcefully, “The ceremony is about to begin.” Enrique was standing up in front of the altar just in front of the pulpit, eagerly awaiting the arrival of his princess bride with great anticipation. Once again, Simon stood with the hopeful groom as the best man while Glacian and Gloria sat in a pair of ornate, wooden chairs behind the pulpit, waiting patiently to begin the ceremony.

“You think everything is ready, my dear?” asked Gloria quietly.

“Most definitely,” said Glacian as he looked at Enrique, “And I can tell that the groom is completely confident about marrying Anna.” Gloria smiled at her husband. Aurora was sitting on the front pew as well between Alexander and Mack.

“I hope Anna didn’t forget her new swords,” said a worried Aurora, “She was really looking forward to getting married with her katana and wakizashi at her side.”

“Heh!” laughed Mack quietly, “Then any minute now, Anna, the warrior princess, is going to walk down the aisle, eh?” Aurora erupted with warm laughter.

“I do remember that Alexander and I were originally going to name her Xena,” giggled Aurora, “But we liked the name of ‘Anna’ a lot more, so that is what we decided on.” Mack glanced up at Enrique as he stood still and patiently in his shimmering and sparkling wedding dress.

“His wedding attire is just like mine,” remarked Mack.

“Minus all the gems and the swords,” giggled Aura, “Oh, Anna is going to be in for such a surprise when she sees Enrique.” Carl and Samantha, Enrique’s proud parents sat in the front pew on the right side of the sanctuary, admiring their son and holding each other close and tightly. The other wedding guests continued to wait for the bride to arrive at the sanctuary as time ticked on. It wasn’t much later when Alexander and Anna arrived at the large doors to the sanctuary. The proud father had his right arm linked with Anna’s left arm. He could not have been any happier for his beautiful daughter. William let out a heavy sigh as he stepped in front of the young bride and her father. Once again, Mei-lin the Mawile had agreed to be the flower girl for another wedding. Instead of just a pink bow, she now wore a dress and slippers much like William’s, except the dress was made for the body shape of a Mawile. Li glanced back at William, wondering what was going on.

“Is there something wrong with him today?” thought Li. He shrugged his shoulders and returned his attention to Mei-lin.

“Here you go, William,” said Alexander, trying his best not to burst out laughing as he handed a small, red velvet pillow with Enrique and Anna’s wedding bands resting on it to the cross-dressing Pikachu. William nodded his head with another heavy sigh as he took the soft pillow from Alexander.

“Hey, Li,” whispered Mei-lin as she glanced back at the Pikachu as it stood still, thoroughly embarrassment in its fluffy pink dress, “I thought a boy was always the ring bearer.”

“Um…that’s actually William,” chuckled Li. Mei-lin took another quick glance at William with a look of shock on her face.

“I didn’t know he liked dresses,” remarked a confused Mei-lin.

“Same here,” said Li quietly. William could clearly hear the Mawiles’ conversation with his sensitive ears.

“This is going to be a loooong day…” grumbled William as Mei-lin giggled and picked up a basket that was filled to the brim with soft, pink rose petals. Alexander glanced at his beautiful, blushing and smiling daughter.

“Are you ready for this, Anna?” asked Alexander tenderly. Anna closed her eyes, smiled and nodded her head. Meanwhile, Glacian stood up from his chair and approached the pulpit.

“Are you ready, Enrique?” asked Glacian softly and with a bright, friendly smile. Enrique nodded his head in reply.

“Then let us begin,” said Glacian happily. He glanced at Jake who was sitting at the large, glimmering pipe organ. He smiled and nodded as he started to play some familiar, light music. Alexander and Anna stepped out of sight as a pair of Gallades opened the back doors. William frowned as he walked slowly down the aisle in his frilly pink dress. Needless to say, the wedding guests were confused and bewildered at this sight. Mack looked over his left shoulder and down the aisle when he heard the other wedding guests chattering. One look at the pretty Pikachu was all Mack needed to see to know what was transpiring.

“William…” muttered Mack to himself as he slowly shook his head back and forth, “What did Anna trick you into this time?” William was sullen and held his head low out of shame and immense embarrassment until he laid eyes on Mack. William had not seen Mack’s new jewel-encrusted wedding dress before and the look of absolute horror on the Guardian’s face seemed to clench William’s suspicions.

“Sheesh…” thought William, “Look at all that embroidery and all those gems on Mack’s wedding dress. Looks like I’m actually getting off pretty easy today!” Mack continued to stare at William as the dress-wearing Pikachu now approached the altar with a content smile on his face while laughing quietly to himself. Mack was not going to bother to even try to find out what was on the demented rodent’s mind. Mei-lin happily walked down the aisle with Li at her side, scattering the pink rose petals as she went while the two Gallades at the back of the sanctuary closed the large doors. All the people and Pokémon stood up and faced the back doors for soon, the bride would emerge. Enrique looked down at William with concern, wondering why the cross-dressing rodent was smiling and laughing softly to himself. Enrique glanced at Glacian who just shrugged his shoulders in reply to an unspoken question. The revered silence filled the immense sanctuary for what seemed like hours until Jake cracked his knuckles, placed his fingers on the organ’s antique ivory keyboard and started to play the wedding march. The back doors opened wide, revealing Anna and Alexander as they slowly approached the altar. Mack glanced back and forth at Enrique and Anna: they were both smiling and blushing deeply at each other as they came ever closer to each other with every passing moment. As the young, delighted bride walked towards her elated groom, Mei-lin glanced nervously at William one last time. Anna could hear the other Gardevoirs talking to each other quietly about her and Enrique’s wedding attire: they were all amazed and delighted at the sight of such a well dressed bride and groom. Still, some of them were downright confused and somewhat worried when they noticed the two decorated scabbards with the ornate hilts of a pair of Japanese swords sticking out of the hard sheaths.

“Well, well…” thought Simon with joy as he marveled at Enrique and Anna, “…A pair of young and powerful warriors are about to be married: happily locked together for the rest of their lives.” Time seemed to pass at a slow crawl for the young lovers and then, finally, Alexander had stopped at the altar with his overjoyed daughter at his side. Glacian looked down from the pulpit and smiled happily at his great grandson and beautiful, great-great granddaughter as Jake ended the song at the organ.

“Who gives this female Gardevoir…” said Glacian loudly as he glanced at Anna and then at Enrique, “…to this male Gardevoir?”

“I do,” said Alexander with pride as he handed his daughter’s left hand to Enrique. The lovers smiled and blushed as they stared into each others eyes and held hands. They slowly turned their heads to face Glacian.

“Dearly beloved,” declared Glacian loud enough so all could hear him, “We are gathered here on this most joyous occasion to bear witness to Enrique and Princess Anna as they enter together into holy wedlock.” Anna giggled with sheer delight.

“Before we begin, if anyone has any good reason why these two should not be wed, than speak now or forever hold your peace!” warned Glacian. Then, without warning, Anna let go of Enrique’s hands and drew both of her shining swords and stood in an aggressive battle stance.

“That means it is time for all of you to stay quiet!” warned Anna with a stern, yet surprisingly playful tone of voice.

“They shouldn’t be married because Anna is insane!” laughed William. Anna grinned at William as she slid the pair of blades back into their golden scabbards and while the congregation erupted with loud laughter.

“You should talk, pretty boy!” snapped Anna with a fiendish smile. Glacian shook his head back and forth and chuckled to himself as the congregation soon quieted down.

“I would have expected nothing less form you, Anna,” said a grinning Glacian, “However, tradition does state that the bride and groom be holding hands as they make their vows.”

“Oh, right,” said Anna sheepishly as Enrique held her hands in his own again. The people and Pokémon laughed quietly to themselves as Glacian again spoke up.

“Enrique and Princess Anna, there are great responsibilities for being a part of and marrying into the Olympus royal family,” said Glacian, “Enrique and Anna, the vows you are about to make must not be taken lightly. As for you, Enrique, when you and Anna become mates you will be named prince. As a member of the royal family, it is your duty to use your authority to help and serve others. Most importantly, should there come a time when Mack, Aura, Fredrick and Sakura are unable to continue as Guardians of Gardev, you must take up the mantel of guardianship of the village of Gardev.” Enrique nodded his head confidently.

“I understand,” said Enrique with determination.

“And…” continued Glacian, “Since you are marrying into the royal family, you are required to continue the royal bloodline through Anna. Do you understand what this means?”

“I understand and accept these responsibilities,” declared Enrique. Glacian nodded his head a few times.

“As noted,” said Glacian as he faced the young bride and groom with a stern look on his face, “Having accepted the responsibilities that go with being a member of the royal family, you may now exchange vows with your bride.” The wedding guests sat still in revered silence as Enrique and Anna declared their vows to each other. Alexander and Aurora held each other tightly as they witnessed the marriage of their last daughter. Mack and Aura as well as Fredrick and Sakura, sat still as well, enjoying the tender moments. Before long, the bride and groom had finished making their vows. With the exchange of golden rings, the ceremony was almost complete and the young Gardevoirs now belonged to each other.

“With this ring, I thee wed,” said Anna with joy as she slid the last golden over her husband’s finger. The two Gardevoirs held hands once again and faced Glacian.

“With the exchange of your vows, your rings and Enrique’s acceptance of his royal duties, by the power vested in me, I now name you, Enrique and Anna as mates!” declared Glacian as the bride and groom stared and smiled at each other.

“Prince Enrique, you may now kiss your bride, Princess Anna,” said Glacian. Everyone in the sanctuary cheered loudly as Enrique and Anna wrapped their arms around each other and then kissed for the first time. The other married Gardevoir couples couldn’t help but kiss their beloved mates as well. Minutes passed before the blushing Gardevoir bride and groom broke their long, passionate kiss.

“There is one more thing you two must do before your marriage ceremony is complete,” said Glacian as Simon picked up and put a stool behind Enrique, “Prince Enrique, please sit down.” Enrique nodded his head and sat down on the stool as Gloria presented the familiar, ornate dagger with its decorated sheath to her husband. Glacian smiled at Anna as he handed her the dagger.

“Enrique, as you know, all who marry into the royal family from now on will receive majestic wings, a wonderful gift upon their wedding night,” said Glacian as he faced the smiling bride, “Anna, it is your duty to prepare your mate’s dress for tonight.” Anna grinned at Enrique as she unsheathed the dagger and skillfully twirled the small blade in her right hand a few times. Now the young prince was getting very worried as Glacian removed the ornate, white cape from his back.

“Just hold still, honey,” giggled Anna with an evil grin on her face as she slowly walked towards a very nervous Enrique, “This won’t hurt a bit!” Enrique faced away from Anna, offering the back of his wedding dress to her with a look of great dread and immense fright on his face. The wedding guests, all holding back their laughter, had been informed of this new tradition and somehow, Enrique had not been told what to expect. However, his feelings of anxiety soon vanished in an instant the moment Anna bent over and whispered into his left ear.

“You know I’m just teasing you, honey,” said Anna cheerfully and with a sweet, gentle voice, “Just hold still.” Enrique smiled and closed his eyes as Anna stroked the soft fabric of his sparkling dress. Anna tenderly pulled on the back, left side of her mate’s dress’s bodice and carefully made a slow cut into the tough yet soft fabric. Anna released her hold on her mate’s dress and did the same thing to the other side. Moments later, she had finished putting a pair of identical slits into the back of her prince’s stunning wedding dress. Anna smiled as she put the dagger back in its sheath and handed it to Gloria while Glacian carefully clipped Enrique’s cape back around his neck, draping the fine garment over the young prince’s back.

“You may stand now,” said Glacian. Enrique smiled and stood up as Simon whisked away the wooden stool. Anna smiled and came alongside her new mate.

“I’m looking forward to flying with you tomorrow,” giggled Anna. Enrique smiled and nodded his head at his lovely princess. At last, the two lovers faced the congregation as the people and Pokémon erupted with thunderous cheering and applause.

“I now have the honor of presenting to you all, for the first time, Prince Enrique and Princess Anna as husband and wife!” declared Glacian with great joy and happiness. Jake smiled as he played the organ loudly while Enrique and Anna, smiling and blushing deeply at one another, marched down the aisle hand in hand. A delighted Mei-lin followed after the bride and groom with Li at her side. They looked back over their shoulders, still puzzled at William’s… unorthodox, pink and fluffy attire.

“Last but not least…!” announced Glacian from the front of the sanctuary amidst the din of celebration, “Prince Enrique and Princess Anna would be honored if we would all join them in the church cafeteria for their celebratory banquet!” Of course, no one in the congregation was going to refuse such an offer.

>To be continued...<