Wade had his third treatment and he was completely cured. Arrangements had been made for Wade and me to be married at Sunset. This was the happiest day of my life.
We were in for a pleasant surprise when we were greeted by a pair of islanders and their two children. “It is a great honor to finally meet the Changeling Princess and her companion,” said the wife. I didn’t recognize the couple, but Wade did.
“You are Jasma and this is your husband, Ausue,” said Wade. “You were the first Ivarrs to battle the Demon intruders ten thousand years ago.”
“This is true,” said Ausue. “Jasma was badly wounded and I would not leave her side. The Supreme Being brought us here and we have been together since then. These are our two children, Ausue Jr. and Ivy.”
The children looked to be around seven years old, but my instincts told me that they were much, much older. I got down on one knee and hugged each of them. “Your parents are legends,” I said. “It is an honor to meet both of you.”
“We will be at your wedding,” said Jasma. “No one brings gifts, but you will be showered with love.”
I was so happy I felt a tear forming in my eye. My next surprise was seeing Princess Meea as she materialized before me. “You can travel to Crystal Island?” I asked.
“Yes. I have the power to travel anyplace on this planet. I just want you to know that I will be attending your wedding; just as I attended the wedding of Jasma and Ausue. I have a simple request.”
“There is nothing we would deny you if it is in our power,” said Wade.
“I would like to bring Yolla with me. She idolizes both of you and I would like her to have a glimpse into the future to see a world that is totally devoid of evil.
I looked and Wade and we both smiled. “We would be honored,” I said.
* * *
The ceremony was officiated by Ishba. It lasted only ten minutes and it was the happiest ten minutes of my life. “We will keep in touch,” said Jasma. “As former Ivarrs, we have a lot to talk about.”
“I wish you a long and happy life,” said Princess Meea. “You deserve all the happiness that Crystal Island has to offer.”
Yolla had tears in her eyes. “You too finally marry. Yolla cry because I happy for you.”
We took turns hugging Yolla and Princess Meea. They were both smiling as they faded from view and disappeared.
After all the guests had left, Ishba led us to a hut that was to be our new home. It wasn’t very large, but it didn’t have to be. The island took care of our needs and the hut was only for privacy.
Missy and Izzy were busy investigating our new home. “You girls will be sleeping outside tonight,” I said.
“I understand,” said Missy. “Come on Izzy; let’s go see if there are any tomcats on this island.”
“Just remember this one important rule, girls. You chase the boys until they catch you.”
“That doesn’t make sense,” said Izzy as she was walking away with Missy.
“I’ll explain it to you later,” said Missy. “And try to keep quiet if we do run into any tomcats. I’ll do all the talking.”
Wade and I were both laughing as we closed the door. Wade took me into his arms and we kissed. “You once told me you were my girl, Janis. Now that we’re married it’s official.”
“That’s right, Wade, and I’ve still got your ring to prove it.” Wade looked amused. “What’s so funny?” I asked.
“I was just thinking that it could take a couple of thousand years before we have our first child.”
“If that’s the case, we’ll have lots of time to practice.”
We were both laughing as Wade took me in his arms again and kissed me. I was happy beyond belief and tears of happiness were running down my cheeks. I was going to count my blessings every single day for the rest of my life.
THE END
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jackie Shirley grew up in St. Joseph, Michigan, a picturesque little town on the shore of Lake Michigan. Jackie has always been fascinated with science fiction. He has seen every episode of “Captain Video,” “Science Fiction Theater,” “Twilight Zone,” “Outer Limits” and “Stargate SG-1.”
Jackie taught rudimental drumming, worked as an Aerospace and Automotive tool designer and once owned and operated a family billiard room in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Since retiring to Las Vegas, Jackie has taken up writing. The Changeling Princess is his first venture into the world of fantasy. Jackie has also authored several children’s books that he plans to release in the near future.
The Changeling Princess Page 44