Union

The shock of the marriage announcement between Calista and Nikolas was enough to replace the tension between both worlds with fear of the possible fallout from such a marriage. Many spoke of the dangers to come, but the efforts of Calista, Nikolas, and their supporters were enough to create hope for another possibility.

“I, Alexios, have the power to protect this world. I refuse to believe a union between my people and yours would bring calamity. Even if it should, I will do all within my power to protect it.”

“As will I.” Nikolas offers Alexios his hand. “I know many will object to my representation of mortals, but I will flee no longer.”

“Then we shall face this together.” Alexios takes Nikolas’s hand.

The final public meeting between Alexios and Nikolas before the wedding cemented the decision. Although many were still hesitant, the efforts garnered enough support for the wedding to be held.

News of the marriage spread far, Calista and Nikolas deciding to marry once many other concerns were taken care of, a way to show the sincerity of their wishes.

Calista focused on Mount Olympus, spreading word of the need for union with the mortals, of how both sides have much to learn from each other. She believes they can spend much of their lives alongside them as well, it is only then when they will heal the broken relationship.

Nikolas’s journey took him far across the globe with help from the Olympians. His journey was one of atonement, much of it spent making up for disappearing as he did, but he also began to build the connection between both worlds. Alexios traveled with him to many locations alongside another god when able.

Other Olympians also took the opportunity to help, traveling farther than usual to help villages, or overseeing blessings left behind by the gods visiting and even remaining to be a messenger between the worlds.

“It’s an honor to have you with us today, lady Helen.” Nikolas said.

Helen joins Nikolas, Alexios, and three young Olympians on their next visit to a far city.

“Oh please, Alexios wouldn’t stop pestering me.” Helen said.

“She lies, I hear Calista is the one that convinced her.” Alexios said.

“Is that so? Thank you for the opportunity once more, I’m sure the city will be delighted to see you.” Nikolas said.

“You should give yourself more credit, it is your doing as well as hers that I am here.” Helen said.

“May I ask how?”

“A mortal traveled into the underworld for the woman he loved, Olympian or not, that is true love. I find that beautiful, if she is deserving of such devotion, then I must have misjudged her. I wonder if I could find such love.”

“I’m sure you could.”

“Hmph, pray you have not lied.”

“I hear protests about your union are few and far between now.” Alexios said.

“Months of traveling have had great effects; it is thanks to all of your tireless efforts. You have my gratitude, though I’m sure you all still worry about what may come.”

“Hah! Please, I am the god of love, no calamity will come from such a union if I have a say. Nikolas, I do hope you understand the responsibility you are taking. You two will be the bridge between our worlds, it is not a task you can ever forget.”

“Of course, so long as it is by her side, I would love to do it.”

Across the planet, mortals and Olympians alike tune in to the marriage between Calista the Olympian, and Nikolas of the mortals. Whether in physical attendance, or watching by way of magic, the world watches with great anticipation of what is to come.

The wedding is held in Damon’s home village; Calista often calls it the place where their love blossomed. Gods, Olympians, and mortals are in attendance, all just as anxious as the rest of the world; only Calista’s closest friends, Damon, and the couple seem to have little worries.

Nikolas stands at the altar in a ceremonial outfit, his nerves calm as Theodoros and Nikos stand off to the side. Both, alongside Atalanta, ascending to their seats in the time since they helped retrieve Calista, few were surprised as tales of their ability to fight against current gods are well known.

As for Nikolas, his moniker continues to change over time, though it is the relentless that seems to stick. Not only for his journey to the underworld but for his efforts in mending relations between mortals and Olympians. Hatred for him fades, people wish to hope.

“Oh my.” Nikolas said.

Calista arrives, her dress ordered by Helen – though she will never admit to it – and is believed to be the most beautiful dress in existence by any who lays eyes on it. Nikolas thinks no different, but it is Calista’s beauty that leaves him in awe. Her smile gentle as their eyes meet, his heart pounding as Atalanta leads Calista to the altar.

“What do you think?” Calista asked.

“I’d journey through the underworld every day for such a view.”

“Lucky for you, you will wake up next to me. Nikolas, thank you.”

“Thank you.” Nikolas grabs Calista’s hands.

The ceremony begins, the audience quiet, the world following suit and reaching a moment of peace and unity for a single moment.

“You may kiss the bride.”

Quiet remains, hearts stop, yet, as Nikolas and Calista kiss, all reactions are the same. Joy. For union to exist between mortal and Olympian, once believed impossible and even dangerous, their kiss brings cheers and tears around the planet.

Light surrounds Calista, a pillar of similar light arising on Mount Olympus.

“It seems this is my calling; at your side I will fulfil this role and more.”

“And I will do my best to support you.”

“I love you, Nikolas.”

“I love you, Calista.” 

Thanks for reading! - E.F.Veda