Chapter 26: The Quest of Marriage
As Alex, CV, Elara, and Alex's friends returned to the university hostel after their successful expedition, the excitement of the day lingered in the air. They gathered in the common area, chatting animatedly about their upcoming quest for the third World Fragment.
Elara, now evolved and more vibrant, played with Alex's friends, while CV and Alex sat together, discussing their preparations. The evening passed quickly, filled with laughter and camaraderie. As night fell, everyone retreated to their rooms to rest.
In Alex's room, a small space with a single bed, Alex and CV found themselves wrapped in a tight embrace, their bond stronger than ever. They had grown accustomed to this closeness, and tonight was no different. As they drifted off to sleep, they felt a sense of contentment and anticipation for the adventures ahead.
---
Two minutes later, Alex and CV were jolted awake by a sudden, bright light filling the room. A system screen appeared before them, displaying a new quest:
**Quest: Wings of the Turner Family's Sage From 100,000 Years Ago**
**Requirements:**
- Alex: No requirements needed, as he is a pure-blooded Turner.
- CV: Must marry Alex.
**Reward:**
- Godly Wings of the Turner Family's Sage.
The system message added that the quest was non-negotiable, not that Alex or CV had any intention of rejecting it. They looked at each other, their hearts racing with excitement and a touch of nervousness. They hadn't anticipated marriage so soon, but the thought brought a warmth to their hearts.
"This is... unexpected," Alex said, his voice barely above a whisper.
CV smiled, her eyes reflecting the same excitement. "Yes, but it's a good kind of unexpected."
With a mutual understanding, they agreed to the quest. Instantly, they were transported to a mystical location, an ethereal plane where the quest would take place. Awaiting them were Alex's parents, George and Athena, his sister Emily, and an elderly figure who could only be Alex's great-grandfather, the guardian of the Crystal.
The family's surprise was palpable, but Athena's joy shone brightest. She enveloped Alex and CV in a warm hug. "This is wonderful news!" she exclaimed, her eyes glistening with happiness.
George and Emily, though taken aback, quickly joined in the celebrations, their expressions a mix of shock and delight. The guardian of the Crystal, an imposing figure from a time long past, stepped forward, his presence commanding respect.
"Alex, CV," he began, his voice resonating with authority, "this marriage is a significant step, not only for you but for the Turner lineage. The sage from ancient times was a Hindu, so you must marry according to Hindu traditions."
---
Alex's friends, who had been transported to the quest location as well, gathered around, their faces reflecting a mix of curiosity and astonishment. Sarah, Jenny, and Mark looked to Alex for an explanation. Blushing, Alex told them about the quest and the necessity of marriage for CV to fulfill it.
"Marriage? Now?" Jenny asked, eyes wide.
"Yes," Alex confirmed, still blushing. "It's part of the quest."
Athena, overjoyed, quickly took charge. "We'll need to prepare for a traditional Hindu wedding," she said, already listing the necessary arrangements in her mind.
CV, ever resourceful, accessed the internet to learn about Hindu wedding customs. She studied diligently, determined to honor the traditions of the Turner sage.
---
The preparations were a whirlwind of activity. Bright, colorful decorations filled the mystical location, transforming it into a setting worthy of a grand celebration. The air buzzed with the scent of flowers and the sounds of traditional music.
As the wedding ceremony commenced, Alex and CV stood before the sacred fire, surrounded by their family and friends. The guardian of the Crystal, standing as the officiant, performed the rituals with solemn grace.
Alex and CV exchanged garlands, their eyes locking in a promise of eternal companionship. They walked around the sacred fire, taking their vows, each step binding them closer together.
With the final rites completed, the guardian pronounced them husband and wife. The air shimmered with magical energy as the Godly Wings of the Turner Family's Sage materialized, a symbol of their union and the fulfillment of the quest.
Athena, tears of joy streaming down her face, blessed the couple. "May you both find happiness and strength in each other."
George and Emily echoed her sentiments, their pride evident. Alex's friends, still reeling from the unexpected event, congratulated the newlyweds with heartfelt wishes.
---
As the ceremony concluded, Alex and CV felt a profound sense of accomplishment and unity. The system transported everyone back to their respective locations, the quest now complete.
In the quiet of their hostel room, Alex and CV lay side by side, the glow of their wedding still fresh in their minds. They held each other tightly, their future now intertwined in ways they hadn't imagined.
Their journey was far from over, but with their bond strengthened by marriage, they felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they would continue their quest for the World Fragments, united in purpose and love.
And so, a new chapter of their lives began, filled with promise and the unbreakable strength of their union.