#763 Draco-reception

The persuasion of the gods took longer than expected, and we finally managed to continue with the wedding. 

What an unexpected detour that was!

“Hades will bless Batemy and Olba’s couple... the other two pairs are for Poseidon to handle, right?”

It makes sense since the brides-to-be, Zoth Syra and Teacher Carp, are mermaids.

But just when I thought we had everything sorted...

“Under which god will Bloody Mary’s couple swear their vows?”

To remain together in sickness and in health?

It’s a pledge before a god, but to which god does the mightiest creature, the dragon, make such a vow?

Suddenly, this has become quite the fundamental question!

“In that case, let me handle it!”

There intrudes our local dragon, Veil!

Why are you in your dragon form right now?!

“I’ve overseen the vows between you and Platy before! Let this matchmaking dragon step up for her dragon kin!”

“That settles it then.”

Wait, seriously?!

Is this truly acceptable to you, dragon couple?!

“You know, Veil has become so powerful that she’s gone beyond typical dragon dimensions. She’s considered the only match for Alexander. It seems fitting to make vows before her.”

...Veil...?!

When did you ascend to such a heightened status?

Why do our farm residents, like Orkubo, Sensei, Platy, and Letasreit, constantly defy common sense without our notice?

“If you doubt my capabilities, I can demonstrate. Hey, you two gods, take me on simultaneously.”

“Nay, nay, nay!” “I humbly refuse!”

Hades and Poseidon are visibly shaken.

Is she truly such a formidable force?

“Break the vows you made to me, and I’ll end you. It’s a guaranteed pact!”

“Intimidating...!” “Even we gods do not impose such strict terms. Dragons are truly fearsome creatures!”

Veil, a force that even intimidates the gods.

“So, in the presence of Hades, spouse to the Mother Earth Goddess...”

“Poseidon, lord of the vast seas...”

“And the Mighty Veil of the Dragons, we recognize the couples here today as having taken their marriage vows!”

The heavens shine down, spotlighting each couple.

With this ceremony, they are now officially wed, and nothing can tear them asunder.

After all, their union has the gods’ blessing.

But how many couples have now received this divine endorsement?

This trend started when Sensei whimsically called upon the gods during the conflict between the Demon King and Mrs. Astres.

I can’t help but feel we’re taking a bit of a liberty with the gods.

Even those in attendance are taken aback by the scene before them.

Their expressions seem to say, “What are we witnessing...?!”

Such a reaction is expected. And I apologize.

Many are seeing gods for the first time, so they’re understandably shocked and are starting to pray. 

The effect seems especially pronounced among the demon folks.

The merfolk, however, had once summoned Poseidon during Puffer and Arowana’s wedding. 

That previous experience might have somewhat prepared those who attended that ceremony.

...But even among the mermaids, some are prostrating themselves in awe. 

I guess an encounter with a god is always shocking, no matter how many times you experience it.

However, women in bridal attire joyfully unite with their beloved on this day.

It’s a joyous event.

Whether Batemy, Zoth Syra, Teacher Carp, or Bloody Mary, their long-held desires were finally fulfilled, bringing immense joy.

With the ceremony successfully wrapped up, it was party time.

The reception was to be held at a pre-designated venue.

Indeed, the banquet hall was inside the Dragon Emperor’s Castle.

This venue, constructed with the combined efforts of orcs, elves, and dwarfs, was brimming with opulence and artistry rivaling any palace, just as we’d seen during our earlier inspection.

Now at the venue, the attendees seemed suitably impressed by its grandeur.

All right!

The hard work of the orcs, elves, and dwarfs is being appreciated!

But that’s not all!

A wedding reception isn’t complete without delectable food and drinks.

This is where I step in. 

As the one overseeing the farm’s culinary affairs, I promise a feast like none other.

Goblin team, assist me!

“Absolutely, My Lord! After the efforts of the orcs and elves, it’s our time to shine!”

“How could we not step up for Leader Gobukichi’s big day?!”

“Keep the dishes coming! Let’s lay out a grand feast!!!”

The goblins, in admiration of Gobukichi, are enthusiastically contributing behind the scenes during one of their leader’s most radiant moments in his life.

We’ll leave the drinks to Bacchus, and we’ll focus on serving fooooooooooooood!!!

Regarding the gods who observed the wedding vows...

“Huzzaaaaaaaah! A banquet crafted by the saint himself!”

“Feast until the last bite! Bring it forth!”

Hades and Poseidon, please leave once you’re satisfied.

Today’s feast is for the brides and grooms as they start their new journey together.

Your offerings will be prepared on another occasion.

The guests also seemed to thoroughly enjoy the dishes served.

We gave it our all preparing those dishes, so savor it to your heart’s content.

And praise Orkubo, Gobukichi, and Batemy for hosting such a feast!!!

During the celebration, performances from both the Demon King and Arowana heightened the revelry.

A wild party where even the nobility showcases their talents.

But just as the festivities reached a peak...

*** 

...A child stepped onto the stage.

“....A kid?”

“What’s a little boy doing there? Did he lose his way? Or his parents?”

“Did he climb up to get a better view to find them?”

While the general audience murmurs casually, those in the know feel a cold rush.

That child is...!

At first glance, he may seem like an innocent boy, but in truth, he is...

Al-Gor, the former Geyser Dragon!

He’s an outlaw who once ignited an unparalleled conflict involving all dragons.

After being defeated by Ardheg, the present Geyser Dragon, his powers were so diminished that he could only take the form of a young boy.

Yet, an ominous aura surrounds him.

His prominent appearance here...

Sends shivers down my spine.

“...Ahem, thank you all for gathering today for the weddings, especially that of my son Ardheg and daughter Bloody Mary. Though there are also other couples, so it’s not just for them...”

He starts his address.

The audience, even those unaware of the context, begins to sense the gravity of the situation.

Even in his diminished state, he once was a supreme dragon.

His presence isn’t as overbearing as Orkubo’s was, but it’s certainly palpable.

“Indeed, these are unusual times. Dragons getting married. A dragon represents perfection and singularity. That’s why they’ve never felt the need to reproduce or evolve, always existing as unique entities.”

The former Geyser Dragon continues his impassive monologue.

What’s his endgame?

Is he genuinely here to celebrate his offspring’s unions?

Has this once-scheming dragon, after relinquishing his throne, developed familial affections?

Seems unlikely.

“How will this change impact the dragon race? I wished to ascertain that on this joyous occasion. Hence, I thought of inviting some guests. After all, a banquet is best enjoyed with a crowd...!”

Let me remind you that the chosen reception location is an open-air garden under the blue sky.

Above, the deep azure sky stretches endlessly, preserved by dragon magic.

In that expansive blue, one, then two, tiny silhouettes appear. 

They multiply rapidly, each form becoming distinct.

As they grow in number, their features become discernible.

Wings, limbs, and fierce countenances... Dragons.

“This marks the first dragon wedding in recorded history. So, it’s only fitting to have dragon guests, right?”