It had been a week since Rex's sacrifice and much had changed in the world. For the Nanite Team it was an adjustment period getting use to being fully real again. The serum helped stabilized their bodies enough for them to be returned to normal, but there was a lot of phantom pain especially when they neared computer councils. At least they had a lot of help from governments and Ulani to restore their lives after being declared dead for six years.
Other happenings included Naniqueen adjusting to having a majority of her conscience in the real world while the rest of her remained running Central Nexus and keeping the Nanite Nexus operational. It was a strange disconnected, but Anya had helped created a physical body resembling her avatar with abilities to tap directly into data networks that helped Naniqueen. Now she could move about in the real world talking with her people or helping fix glitches in the new symbiosis. Strangely enough Naniqueen was drawn to White Knight due to his lack of nanites. She couldn't sense him at all which meant she had to get to know him. He wasn't that thrilled with getting to know the living embodiment of the things he fought tooth and nail against, but after seeing her handle questions about the new symbiosis and promising to help with the EVOs of the world he was warming up to her slightly.
The total amount of EVOs that existed in the world after the reboot and reprogramming was almost a million. Most of them were humans along with hundreds of plants and animals EVOs who chose to stay this way in attempt to bred new species to fill the gap created by extinction. This included most of the creatures in the Petting Zoo who were now tamed and cooperated with their handlers. Holiday was very busy working on the project. Not surprisingly Abysus was now permanently stabilized no longer needing Van Kliess's constant attention to keep it from going to hell. It had been officially recognized as a country with its own constitution and government. It would take a lot of work, but Anya and Van Kliess along with the Pack felt they could make it into something great. Haven had also stepped up its efforts to locate manna users now that the nanites weren't causing difficulty locating people. They also pledged to help with the new regime of nanites.
At Providence the mood was somber. After hearing the incredible events of what had occurred in the Nanite Nexus and the amazing self sacrifice of Rex White Knight didn't have the heart to say no to a memorial service. Noah had gone a step further and gave the details and evidence to the news service. The story had been running for four days now all over the world and even the most bigot people had to admit that they owed their lives to one teen EVO.
Circe was in her bedroom preparing for the service which was being held on ironically her two year anniversary of meeting Rex. She had already bathed, clothed and fed Eilonwy who was wearing a small black and white gown an infant version of her own. She had just finished applying her make up and was struggling to put on her mourning veil. Her eyes were tearing up and her hands were shaking.
"Mama? Coo babble Dada?"
"Dada's gone Eilonwy. He's not coming back my little icon."
"Dada no! Wmant Dada!"
"I do too little icon, but we have to be brave for him. Today we're going to celebrate how wonderful your dada was. So many people are coming to honor him and his sacrifice. We can't show how much we're," Circe couldn't continue she just broke down crying and sobbing unable to hold back her feelings anymore.
A knock on the door brought her to her senses. "Come hiccup in." Wilhelmina entered the bedroom quietly looking very forlorn. The Van Kliess were staying in the guest room of the suite for now. Circe hadn't wanted them there. She understood why they lied and she couldn't hate them, but she didn't want to be anywhere near them. She had blamed them for taking Rex away from her. She recalled how hours after they had returned Noah literally knocked some sense into her.
Circe was stunned and brought her hand to her cheek where Noah had slapped her. "Why did you do that? I have every right to refuse those people a place to stay!"
"Those people are Rex's family and he told both of us to take care of them for him. That includes letting them stay with you until they get situated. I know it's painful and it hurts having them here while Rex is dead, but their family and you need them right now."
"I don't need anyone especially them! They knew that Rex would die and they lied about it! They should have tried harder to find an alternative then letting him die! Everyone else was willing to do it! Heck Naniqueen was ready to kill her self and she's only a machine! They should have made her do it!"
"Oh so you get to decide who lives and dies? You rather have one life sacrificed that might save thousands, but leave millions dead. The rest of the world can go to hell as long as you get what you want? Look Circe I know how you feel. I'm hurting too Rex was my best friend and I loved him like a brother, but he chose to make this sacrifice. He wasn't coerced or strapped into that module against his will. In life sometimes bad things happen and we look for someone to blame. People blamed my sister's condition on my mother even though there was no proof she did anything wrong, but Noelani never blamed her condition on anyone. She told me that "In life we have ups and downs, good times and bad times, but without all the bad things in life no one would appreciate the good in life." Being angry about Rex's death won't change it, but if you let that anger go and allow his family in you can begin to heal."
Circe had taken those words to heart and for the past week she had slowly been learning more about Rex's family and his past. She showed them her life and introduced them to Eilonwy and told them all about Rex's life. "Hello Willa, I was having trouble with my veil. I just couldn't get it on and the service starts in half an hour."
"Let me help you Circe, I had trouble with my own. Kacancu and Ron were struggling with their ties today. None of the men in this family can really tie a tie well. I can't believe how fast White Knight pulled this together. From the way Anya described him this is completely out of her grandfather's character."
"Rex was a big part of this organization. He saved Providence and White Knight from going under. I think White Knight is finally beginning to realize that for all his anger and fear of Rex and EVOs, he owes a lot to them as well. I just wish it didn't take his death to make him understand that."
"I miss Rex too. You had two years with him, but I barely had two days to get to know my teenage son. Ron will never get to play against his brother and my husband will never see our son graduate and go to collage. Still I remember a saying my mother told me on her deathbed. "I would gladly sacrifice everything including my life to spend a single moment with someone I love. That moment with Rex will live on inside me forever. There it's on. Well its time."
Circe picked up Eilonwy and slowly walked to the observation deck were the services were being held. Many of the guests had arrived and were mingling together munching quietly on some mini tacos and chips with salsa dip. Pews covered in purple cloth and decorated with daliahs had been set up along with an organ to play hymns on. A make shift altar covered in a black cloth with green trim with three purple candles in silver candleholders, a silver tin, and a short length of light blue rope had been set up just in front of the newly finished statue erected in Rex's honor. Eilonwy was happily clapping at the little larger then life gold and bronze statue. It did look like Rex in many ways with one hand holding the earth and the other his sword with nanites at his feet, but the expression was far too serious for him.
"Dada? Twhat Dada?"
"Sort of little icon. That statue looks like dada in honor of him."
"Oh it really looks like the kid. Personally I wanted to mess with the face a bit before they finished setting up, but agro ninja told me to leave it alone. Said it captured his spirit," Bobo hooted before turning back to his tacos. He was actually wearing a suit and had taken off his fez hat. He looked sad and was subdued.
"I think Rex's ego would be bolstered ten times by all of this. A memorial service to honor him, a statue in his likeness, people are going to eulogies him. He would have loved this. How are you holding up?" Noah questioned joining her along with the rest of Nexusnaughts. He was wearing his prom suit and was looking very tired. His family was nearby talking with some of the other guests. "How are you holding up?"
"It's hard, everyday I wake up expecting to see him there and he's not there. Eilonwy doesn't really understand what's happening. I've tried to keep busy, but it's hard. How can I think of being an ambassador of peace or training to be a High Priestess when I can barely handle having the Van Kliess's in my suite?"
"If you want Circe my family can stay with us in Abysus. Things have improved greatly. I very surprised when Biowulf reported how many EVOs ranging from plants to humans agreed to stay in our brand new country. I'm a computer programmer and former terrorist. I know nothing of politics how am I going to run a country?"
"We'll figure it out together Shaka. I'm never going to leave your side. I think the reason so many people in Abysus chose to remain EVOs when they could have been cured is because it's who they are. Rex's old friends Cricket, Tuck, and Skyidd told me that being EVOs gave them a family. They didn't have the best home lives before and now they have a future. A chance to live their lives without fear of persecution or being hunted down."
"Especially after Ulani here gets her hands on them, I'm glad your red tape finally cleared. I admit I didn't want you to leave, but after watching Rex make his sacrifice I understand why choosing your own fate it important," Holiday remarked, both twins were in identical black and gray mourning dress their hair in low buns. Quintessa smiled and gave her sister a reassuring squeeze.
"No matter where I am in the world you'll never lose me sis. Still a chance to help influence the next generation in this strange new world is something I'm not willing to pass up. If Rex taught me anything its being responsible for what is yours. Young minds are mine to influence."
"It seems Rex has influenced all of us in many different ways," Six commented, who was wearing black suit with a white tie instead of his usual green. "The kid taught me a lot about hope and having fun."
"I'm happy to hear that our son managed to influence all you in so many different ways. Watching, but unable to act was so difficult. The worse was when we could see him hurting and there was nothing that could be done," Kacancu told the group softly as he joined them with Ron. Wilhelmina was talking with some members from Haven and Abysus. Setting up at the alter High Priestess Tawret wearing white with purple symbolizing death and resurrection of the spirit. She had been asked to lead the memorial service, which would be slightly different then a typical Wiccan funeral.
"I hope I can hold it together when I give my bro his eulogy. I'm much better at making toasts then talking about the dead," Ron said not even noticing when his food was stolen by Bobo.
"Thank you for taking care of Rex for the six years we couldn't. It means so much to us."
"Kacancu nothing could have replaced you in Rex's heart. I was the one honored to help care for an amazing child."
Organ music began to play and food was being taken away so the guest found their seats. It was very mixed between civilians, EVOs, Providence along with Haven and nanite scientist. The music was soft and gentle with a steady rhythm. It played for awhile before silencing as the High Priestess stood up ready to begin.
Tawret struck a match a lit each of the three candles, the sweet scent lavender and sage moved through the pews. "Birth, life, death, it is normal part our existence. Our bodies are shells constructed by water, earth, fire, wind protected by metal. Our hearts and minds are blessed, energized, and empowered by gravity, wood, lightening and ice which in turn creates of quintessence/flair that gives us life while our spirit our very souls are guided by light and darkness. Our lives resemble this cord taunt and think with many choices binding together to create our short, but wonderful life. This tin represents the afterlife where our spirit rest after our spark ends. That has always been the way in nature throughout the ages since The Goddess and her Consort blessed the world of humanity and nature to live side by side."
"Not so long ago our worlds were changed forever. A group dedicated to the betterment of humanity tried to create something that would end the wars and sickness a noble goal indeed. To create life and nurture it is the goal of any parent, but sometimes forces of chaos interfere. I hold no ill towards the nanite scientist and neither should anyone here. Our lives were altered and much was loss, but so much more was gained as well. Look at each of your neighbors and then at the statue of the hero behind me."
"Rex Van Kliess was a very unique individual who affected each of us differently. To some he was friend others a soldier while still others saw him as family or a lover. The first to embark on a journey of being bonded with our newly discovered brothers and sisters' nanites Rex paved the way for the rest of to follow. His EVO powers were strange and deadly, but instead using them to harm others he was trained by his mentor and aided by his partners in how save lives with his special talent of curing them. He awakened the manna inside him to use the power our beloved Mother Earth to prove himself worthy of being both a father and consort to his High Priestess. He was a true Guardian who defends everyone in his rather large Covenant. When he was asked to make the choice between life and death he showed no hesitance at all, instead he rose to the challenge willing doing what many of us don't have the courage to do. Before we commence with putting our brother to rest I urge us to sing for his soul to guide it towards the afterlife and so he may enter with no regrets. You'll find copies of the music in hymn boxes."
The hymn they sang was a very traditional one. The organ swelled and everyone stood up including a bulky White Knight as they all started singing "Amazing Grace."
"Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found. Was blind, but now I see!" The group sang loud and clear. The music echoed across the desert and even vibrated inside where the EVOs in the Petting Zoo were quite as they listen on.
Tears were slowly trickling down Noah's face his family, and Kate (?) and Annie as they were singing the next lines of the hymn. "Twas grace that taught my hear to fear, And grace my fears relieved; How precious did that grace appear. The hour I first believed!"
Anya and Biowulf had to support Van Kliess his knees were buckling so badly. Nearby Breach stood with Skalamander and the Rabble Trio their hearts heavy as they sang. "Through many dangers toils and snares I have already come; Tis grace has brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home!"
Ulani passed a tissue to Quintessa who gave it Kaori who dabbed his eyes. Bobo snatched it and blew his nose hard. The hymn was coming to the end. "The Lord has promised good to me; His Word my hope secures; He will my shield and portion be as long as life endures."
They sang one more hymn called "Lord of All Hopefulness" Many of the civilians were calming down and Providence agents were dealing with the death much easier as music filled their hearts. Kenwyn along with other grunts were dressed in their dress uniforms, pure black with two vertical white stripes. She had never told Rex how grateful she was for not telling on her and now his girlfriend and child were alone. As she sang she hoped the words would comfort his soul. "Lord of all gentleness, Lord of all calm, whose voice is contentment whose presence is calm. Be there at our sleeping and give us, we pray, Your peace in our hearts Lord at the end of the day. "
Tawret drew them to a close. The music ended and everyone took their seats for the rest of the service. "Our joyous voices have aided the soul of our Guardian, our soldier, our beloved friend to find his way. He should find comfort in the afterlife, but we should not dwell on the death, but celebrate the life. Before I conclude with putting the soul to rest I ask those who wish to share something to speak so that those who are left behind feel no sadness only joy."
Six stood up and straightened his tie before speaking to the whole crowd. "Six years ago we were all living in a nightmare that seemed to have no end. My partner believed that complete destruction was the only way and my friend said we need a third option a cure to save those who had been harmed. I had no idea the child I found in the rubble who asked if I'd seen his bike would become our hope. Rex was rebellious, stubborn, disobeyed orders and caused a lot of trouble. On the outside I was angry, exasperated and more then once wanted to scream. Rex never knew inside I applauded his efforts to be normal to find happiness in our line of work. I made promise I would find his family and I did. Rest in peace Rex."
"You all know who I am and I deeply regret what I was doing. It took being reunited with my nephew and having him remind me who I was that made me see the light. I loved my nephew and I will be the first to admit he beat me pretty good. My Pack and I will try to make amends to those we harmed. I only hope that it's enough."
"The boy came to our world determined to save his child. This Council has never seen anything like it before. His magic was weak, knowledge limited, but he was truly a Guardian for all off us. He helped us realize that the savior of our kind had always been there for us," Bevin spoke up.
"My brother and I didn't get to spend a lot of time together before he died. All my memories of him are from when I was little looking up to him. When he first got those powers I was jealous, I was happy I was with my parent while he was an amnesiac weapon of Providence, but six years screwed my head on straight. I could see from the Nexus how much he as suffering and I felt like a jerk for wishing this on him. I tried to make up for it with the short time we spent together. I'm to go to collage and live my life in honor of my brother."
Other's made eulogies, but Circe just couldn't stand up and speak. Eilonwy fussed wanting her mother to say something. Tawret was concluding the ceremony, snuffing out the candles of their lost "brother" and was about place the cord in the tin when she stood up. "Excuse my interruption High Priestess, but I feel I should speak before you lay my lover to rest. If I might?"
"Go right ahead," Tawret said welcoming her onto the stage. She sat down by the organ to give the girl a chance to speak. She had sensed that the girl was distraught and didn't want to say the words in her heart because then it would be real that Rex was never coming back. But now she looked ready as she watched Circe give Eilonwy to her grandmother before standing in front of the altar.
Circe looked at the crowd trembling slightly. Her heart raced as she struggled to get the words out. She looked up at Rex's statue and smiled. She swore she could hear his voice telling her that it would be okay. Confidence restored she started speaking. "My name is Circe St. Warrenting and I was Rex's girlfriend. I met Rex ironically two years ago today. He was at Caba Luna goofing off and doing spring break while I was trying to pass my initiation into the Pack. He actually bumped into me. My first thought when I saw Rex was that he was a lazy goofing idiot. I didn't have time for a boy, but I was drawn to him in a way I couldn't describe. He chased me down trying to talk to me. I couldn't understand it! Why would he want anything to do with me? It wasn't until he jumped into the water to save me from the EVO squid that I understand. Both of us were EVOs who could hide what we were, that we want a safe and happy life. I wanted to get to know him, but my initiation was more important. We argued of course, but what he said to me stayed with me. He said, "I don't care what side you're on, I just don't want to see you die." For the first time in my life someone cared for me because of me. That stayed with me."
"Over the next few months things were a rollercoaster of emotions as we struggled with our forbidden romance. Then something happened that changed that. Lord Van Kliess had an unusual plan to get Rex on our side. I won't go into the details because that's private, but we were together and the time we spent was magical. I loved learning more about each other and it soon became obvious we were soul mates. During a mission he nearly died and we ended up having a night together. From that brief union I became pregnant with our daughter Eilonwy. Our little icon was a symbol of hope to EVO kind. I can recall so many times when I was pregnant Rex was gallivanting over the world trying his best to keep it safe. I remember how I yelled at him for his undercover mission in Hong Kong worrying he was going to get himself killed. Then there was the time he kept me safe when we went shopping for baby supplies and Hunter Cain wanted to harm me. No matter what happened Rex always came home to me. It was because of this that we showed the public they had nothing to fear from us or our offspring. I had no idea that my little girl would awaken a part of us that we never knew existed. It was because of Rex's undying hope and the love he felt for his new family that we were able to ally ourselves with Haven and get our daughter back. I saw more then a magical Guardian who was the counter to my High Priestess. I saw a wonderful father, a brave lover, and a friend who would do anything to save those most important to him. He changed overnight from a carefree teen to a responsible adult."
"This last mission to the Nanite Nexus was the most important one of Rex's life. He was so scared that his family would hate him for being an EVO. For the first time in my life I was the one comforting him telling him it would be alright. That he had nothing to fear. The time Rex spent with his family was the happiest time in his life. When we learned why Rex was brought there to be a sacrifice for the world, I was so angry I wanted to use my powers to destroy the module or at least harm his family. I couldn't understand why they would be willing to let their oldest son, my love and one day husband, die. Rex, sob sob, excuse me Rex showed an inner strength I had never seen before. He knew he would die and I would have to raise our daughter by myself, but at least we be alive. He did what he did to save all of us so that we could live the life he wasn't going to have. His last words echoed in my mind. He said to never stop singing," Circe cried, reaching into her dress pocket pulling out a mini player and CD.
"This was his anniversary gift to me. He knew how much I loved to sing and even though he wasn't the best he would sing with me and to each other, to our daughters sometimes even to his friends. He was the sweetest guy. This CD is a mix of our favorite songs with him and me singing. I would like to share one of the songs with you. One that was very dear to our hearts. This song comes from one our favorite movies. High School Musical 3 Senior Year. Yeah laugh it up. The song is called, "I Just Want to Be With You." She put the CD in the player and pressed play.
The version of the song was the second one from the movie during the musical scene. The first part had Sharpay singing to Jimmie Troy's stand in the movie. It was a little surprising to the crowd that Rex actually liked this stuff.
" Ooo, yeah, ooh, yeah [Jimmie] [Sharpay & Jimmie] [Sharpay] [Sharpay & Jimmie] [Jimmie] [Sharpay & Jimmie] [Jimmie] [Sharpay] [Jimmie]
I gotta lot of things, I have to do
All these distractions, our futures coming soon
Were being pulled, a hundred different directions
But whatever happens, I know I've got you
You're on my mind, you're in my heart
It doesn't matter where we are
Well be alright, even if were miles apart
Even if were miles apart!
Even if were, miles, and miles, and miles apart!
All, I wanna do, is be with you, be with you
Theres nothing we can do
Eww
I just wanna be with you
Only you
No matter where life takes us, nothing can break us apart
[Sharpay]
A-a-achoo!
I just wanna be with
Eww
You!
It was at this point that Rex's and Circe's voice took over. Unbeknownst to everyone a bluish white cloud of energy bits was hovering over the memorial service just watching and listening.
[Rex] [Rex and Circe] [Circe] [Rex and Circe]
You know how life can be, it changes over night
The sun even raining, but it's alright
A friend like you
Always makes it easy!
Naniqueen felt a jolt of recognition go through her body. She looked around furiously trying to find the source. Anya whispered, to her "What is it? You're ruining the moment."
"I heard Rex's nanites! It's very faint and disconnected, but I know I feel his presence! I'm not mistaken I would know that network anywhere!"
Anya didn't doubt that and on the slim chance Rex was here she started surveying the area with her eye. It locked onto a growing cloud of bluish white data bits and energy that was drawing closer to Circe. "What in the world is that?" [Rex] [Rex and Circe] [Rex] [Rex and Circe]
I know that you get me
Every time
Through every up, through every down,
You know i'll always be around
Through anything, you can count on me!
All I wanna do, is be with you, be with you
There's nothing we can do, I just wanna be with you, only you
No matter where life takes us, nothing can break us apart
You know it's true
I just wanna be with you! I just wanna be with you!
By now others were noticing as the cloud of energy swirled around Circe. Haven members could feel faint manna emissions coming from the cloud. Eilonwy was clapping happily almost delight by the sight of her mother surrounded by the energy cloud. Sounds were coming from the cloud almost sounding like a human voice.
[Rex] [Circe]
The sun will always shine, thats how you made me feel
Were gonna be alright, cause what we have is real
And will always be together
The cloud was taking on the shape of a human standing next to Circe trying to touch her. Circe was scared almost stopping, but Mage yelled at her. "NO keep singing. I don't know what's going on but it seems drawn to the music and your voice. Sing everyone join it!" [Rex, Circe, Crowd] [Rex] [Rex, Circe, Crowd] [Circe] [Rex, Circe, and Crowd]
All I wanna do, is be with you, be with you
There's nothing we can do, I just wanna be with you, only you
No matter where life takes us, nothing can break us apart
You know it's true
I just wanna be with you!
All I wanna do
All that I wanna do, is be with you!
All that I wanna do, is be with you!
All that I wanna do, I just wanna be with you!
All that I wanna do, I just wanna be with you!
The crowd watched in amazement as the cloud solidified. Slowly at first but faster and faster flesh and blood appeared then clothing. As the last of the lines were sung there was a flash of light and standing there, next to Circe, holding her hand was Rex.
"Rex? Is that really you?"
"Yeah it's me Circe."
"How? You were dead; Naniqueen said your body dissolved into nothing more then free floating energy and data bits."
"I don't know I was floating in this white space heading for a warm light. I was about to enter when I heard you singing. I followed your voice and here I am. Before I forget there was something I was going to ask you," Rex said getting on one knee and pulling a small box from his pocket. Inside was a small diamond ring. "Will you marry me?"
"Oh Rex of course I'll marry you! Welcome back!" Circe shouted crying loudly as he slipped the ring on her finger. After that everyone was all over the couple asking Rex a dozens of questions. They were so glad that their beautiful memorial service had turned into a rebirth ceremony instead.
Rex was poked, prodded, and scanned at least a dozen times, but no one not Naniqueen, Anya, or Holiday could ever come up with a definitive reason for Rex's sudden resurrection. According to all the data he should have died giving it everything he had to restore the nanites to full health and reboot and reprogram them. Van Kliess suggested that maybe Rex DNA his "blue prints" had been copied and restored him, but in the end no one cared. It was a miracle and that's all that mattered.
"I'm just so happy to have my son back. Oh Rex you don't know how much this means to us, everyone here that your back. I love you Rexy," Wilhelmina said hugging her son to death.
"It's alright Mom really like I said it doesn't matter anymore. I love that statue of me. It shows how awesome I am. You think we can keep it?"
"That statue is going to remain there as a permanent reminder of your brave act. But forget the statue we have a lot to celebrate and get ready for. First you're going to pick up your grades then we can talk about your wedding to Circe," Kacancu sternly told him.
Three months later the attendance to the wedding was almost double to what it had been at the memorial service. It was being held in the same place only this time the pews were decorated with violets, daffodils, and tiger lilies. A white runner with gold thread went up to the altar where Tawret was waiting to perform the ceremony. A circle had been drawn and two glasses filled with honey water stood in the center. Four candles, (white, red, green, blue) stood in the corner while right behind the glasses was a rainbow candled. A beautiful arch of different colored silk and garlands stood in front of the altar. The Councilmembers were singing softly and the entire guests were now wearing festive happy clothes.
"I brought extra tissues. I hope I can keep from crying too much," Holiday whispered, she was reading a nice asymmetrical one sleeve yellow dress and had her hair was up in a fancy do. She was wearing an engagement ring. Six, who was wearing something a bit more festive, had proposed about a week ago. Bobo had been teasing them endlessly, but had finally settled down.
"I'm sure you'll be able to keep it together. This should be very interesting."
Anya was being escorted to her seat by the Pack members. They had all cleaned up nicely and were looking forward to the wedding. Breach actually had a part in the ceremony which would be a combination Wiccan, Spanish, and American. Anya was in a beautiful lilac dress that was cut to perfection and showed all her curves. She too sported an engagement ring happy to finally have her life on track. Nearby she saw others from their adventure wearing their best outfits. Ulani was wearing a powder blue dress and was sitting next to Noah's family talking amicably with them about how smoothly everything was going at her new school in Abysus. She also smiled at the sight of her grandfather actually wearing a normal tux not a suit and sitting next to Naniqueen. Working with her androids she and Naniqueen had created a serum that would keep the nanites from invading his body. It was completely reversible and if at any time he chose to join the rest of the world in symbiosis they could administer the antidote. She didn't have time to think more about it, the choir had started singing the wedding march.
The first down the runner was the maid of honor and bestman, Breach and Noah, wearing a beautiful light pink long sleeved v neck form fitting dress that had extra holes in it for her arms. Her hair was tied up in bun and she wore light make up. She was carrying a bouquet matching the flowers scheme with one pair of arms and the others were holding Noah's arms. He was dressed in his tux and grinning like an idiot. They took their respected places next by the arch.
Next down the runner were the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Circe had asked both Cricket and Kenwyn to be her bridesmaid and they had happily agreed. Both girls wore similar dresses to Breach, but the neckline was A and the dress length a bit shorter. Tuck and Skyidd looked dashing in their dark blue tuxes and bointiners. They had also been pleased to have such an important honor bestowed to them. They took their respectful places and watched the next two come down the aisle.
Bobo was grumbling a bit, but dutifully carried the rings on satin pillow in one hand while keeping a firm grip on eleven month old Eilonwy's hand as she happily scattered orange blossom petals and giggled. The little girl was toddling along slowly in her white gown. She had no idea what was going on, but she was happy. She cheered and clapped at the sight of the next person down the aisle.
Rex was being escorted by his whole family instead of just his mother as Spanish custom dictated. He was dressed in black tux with an orange belt and had an orange blossom pinned to his label. He smiled and kissed his family before his father gave him a bag of thirteen gold coins for luck and prosperity. They then took their seats as the most important member of the party started walking down the aisle.
Van Kliess had volunteered to walk Circe down the aisle. He was wearing the same clothes from that party at the embassy. Next to him in a gothic style gown with a long train and black lace veil sporting her priestess jewelry and hair in ringlets carrying orange blossoms was Circe. She was smiling and had tears in her eyes. She was so happy to be here with the man she loved and was more then ready to get married. The two of them stood in front of the altar waiting for Tawret to speak.
"Blessed be and merry met my friends. Today marks a momentous occasion. Two souls filled with true love are ready to commit themselves to each other for the rest of their lives. No one here can deny they belong together can they? No then Divine One, I ask thee to bless this couple, their love, and their marriage as long as they shall live in love together.
May they each enjoy a healthy life filled with joy, love, stability and fertility."
Turning east she lit the white candle and said, "Blessed be by the element of air. May you be blessed with communication, intellectual growth, and wisdom."
Next she turned south lighting the red candle, "Blessed be by the element of fire. May you be blessed with harmony, vitality, creativity, and passion."
Turning west she lit the blue candle reciting, "Blessed be by the element of water. May you be blessed with friendship, intuition, caring, understanding, and love."
Turning north she lit the green candle, "Blessed be by the element of earth. May you be blessed with tenderness, happiness, compassion, and sensuality."
Facing everyone she lit the rainbow colored candle, "Blessed be all the elements and undying spirit. May you be blessed with undying hope and protection. Rex and Circe enter this circle today to join as one."
"In all the eons, the long slow climb of evolution has no greater culmination than the union of people in love.
From the time the first amoeba fissioned into two, there has been the possibility of companionship - and the possibility of loneliness.
From the time Nature invented sexual reproduction, love has been a quickening."
"In humans as self-aware beings, sexuality provided a way that love can conjoin the bodies, hearts, minds, and souls of those who love."
"Humans have sadly turned away from Nature's harmony for most of our lives. There is war, loneliness, and desolation, and the soul of Nature mourns."
"So when there are those of us who love enough to make a commitment such as this one tonight between Bride and Groom the very stars rejoice at the rediscovery of love, joy, and bounty."
"Love has its seasons the same as does the Earth.
In the spring of love is the discovery of each other, the pulse of the senses, the getting to know the mind and heart of the other; a blooming like the buds and flowers of springtime."
"In the summer of love comes the strength, the commitment to each other, the most active part of life, perhaps including the giving of life back to itself through children; the sharing of joys and sorrows, the learning to be humans who are each complete and whole but who can merge each with the other, as the trees grow green and tall in the heat of the sun."
"In the fall of love is the contentment of love that knows the other completely. Passion remains, and ease of companionship.
The heart smoothes love into a steady light, glorious as the autumn leaves."
"In the winter of love, there is parting, and sorrow. But love remains, as do the stark and bare tree trunks in the snow, ready for the renewal of love in the spring as life and love begin anew."
"Now is the time of summer I ask this couple to drink this honey water. The honey represents fertility and hope and the water the purity and cleansing of the soul." Tawret recited.
Rex and Circe each took a glass and clinked them together before drinking the honey water. Tears and sniffles could be heard from the guests. Holiday dabbed her eyes with a tissue and even White Knight was having difficulty keeping it together.
"As I tie this cord around their hands I am binding two souls as one. Where you go you will always be linked, whatever troubles you face you shall do together. All your happiness shall be shared. Do you now commit to each other to love, honor, respect each other, to communicate with each other, to look to your own emotional health so that you can relate in a healthy way, and provide a healthy home for children if you choose to have them; to be a support and comfort for your partner in times of sickness and health, as long as love shall last?"
"We do."
"Speak your vows so that we may know your feelings are honest and true.
Circe spoke first looking Rex directly in the eyes. "I have loved you Rex since the first moment I saw you. You gave me hope when I was lost. You never gave up on me and encouraged me to find my own way in life. No matter how bad our lives have gotten you always have a smile on your face. The way you raise our daughter shows me what kind of man you are and I can only hope to match your example. I love you Rex with all my heart and soul."
"Circe you are the answer to a prayer I didn't know I had. You were the first girl I ever met, the only other EVO like me. Your beauty and intelligence captured my heart and even when we were on separate sides you still loved me. I have never regretted our time together and I only want to spend the rest of my new life with you and our daughter. I love you Circe with all my heart and soul."
"May we have the rings please?"
Bobo held up the pillow and Noah and Breach each took a ring. They placed it gently in the bride and grooms hand stepping back. Eilonwy giggled as her parents readjusted their tied hands so they could do the next step.
"Let us bless the rings.
Circles represent eternity, and though our lives are finite, love is everlasting, the creative force that binds us together, and the force that gives new life.
The blessings of the wind upon these rings and your love, that you share communication and creativity.
The blessings of fire upon these rings and your love, that you share passion and the spirit.
The blessings of water upon these rings and your love, that you share love and compassion.
The blessings of the earth upon these rings and your love, that you share health and sexuality.
We humans are born of stardust and deepest oceans, of erupting volcanoes and the bones of the earth.
In celebrating love you celebrate a heritage of all these things, and of the love of all humans from the dawn of time.
In making a commitment to loving each other, you share that which is best in us and give a moment of light to the world.
Circe, place the ring on Rex's finger and repeat after me:
With this ring, I thee wed."
"With this ring, thee wed," Circe whispered.
"Rex, place the ring on Circe's hand and repeat after me:
With this ring, I thee wed."
"With this ring, I thee wed," Rex said with such passion you could light a bonfire with it." The bridesmaids and groomsmen were having a difficult time not crying.
Tawret smiled and spoke the final words in the ceremony, "I now pronounce you married. May you each and together be blessed with health, happiness, harmony, and love. So mote it be!"
"So mote it be!" The whole crowd echoed and everyone started cheering and throwing orange blossoms as Rex and Circe shared their first kiss as husband and wife. Everyone was laughing and crying and the choir was singing again as the parents untied the cord and picked up their little one to walk back down the aisle and to the reception.
It was a rocking fiesta with plenty of food, drink (alcoholic and non) along with plenty of music and dancing. Providence was footing the bill so no expenses were spared to decorate one of the larger training areas and convert it to a reception hall. People happily munched on Spanish horderves before a three course dinner mostly a mix of Hispanic and American food was served. Holiday grimaced at the spiciness of some the traditional food, but Ulani laughed.
"You never were one for Spanish food Quintessa. I guess you'll be serving something different at your wedding."
"After all the fuss made about this wedding I'm wondering if elopement is a good idea," Six said, taking a bite out of his salmon. It was quite good.
"Something tells me that running away won't get us away from the media," Van Kliess responded.
"What is your sister in law doing Shaka?" Anya asked. She had noticed Circe and Wilhelmina having female guest reach into a basket of pins resembling lilies and orchids. The girls in turn would place them upside down in their hair.
"It's a Spanish tradition. The girls dance with the pins in their hair and should they fall out the young lady is guaranteed to be married soon. We thought it would be a good idea to incorporate some of my ethnic background into the wedding," Kacancu explained.
"I sure hope you guys are good dancers. The sequidillas manchegas is important because we have to dance and present the newlyweds with a gift. Believe me if the salsa and tango don't do you in that one will," Ron told the group. Everyone tensed, but went back to eating their meal.
Rex and Circe enjoyed their meal with their little one and even laughed when she gobbled up her piece of cake. They basked in the lights of the toast in their honor and were happy to toss the bouquet and garter which Breach and Noah who blushed five shades of red. Finally it was time for the couple's first dance and everyone left the floor. A slow rhythmic music could be heard and suddenly the song, "Can I Have This Dance?" from HSM3 with Circe and Rex's voice started playing.
Take my hand, take a breath
Pull me close and take one step
Keep your eyes locked on mine,
And let the music be your guide.
Won't you promise me (now won't you promise me, that you'll never forget)
We'll keep dancing (to keep dancing) wherever we go next
Rex took Circe's hand and glided onto the dance floor. The two of them started to waltz surprising everyone. Rex twisted Circe around, spun her out and the brought her back close as they continued to dance.
It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you And you can't keep us apart (even a thousand miles, can't keep us apart)
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance
Take my hand, I'll take the lead
And every turn will be safe with me
Don't be afraid, afraid to fall
You know I'll catch you threw it all
'Cause my heart is (cause my heart is) wherever you are
Rex lifted Circe over his head and started spinning around laughing. Circe dropped down to the ground and pressed her back to him before leading him into the next step. It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you Oh no mountains too high enough, oceans too wide
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance
'Cause together or not, our dance won't stop
Let it rain, let it pour
What we have is worth fighting for
You know I believe, that we were meant to be
The coupled danced across the floor dipping and twirling about. The two of them were the happiest people in the world with all eyes on them.
It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you (like you) Can I have this dance
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do (way we do)
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance
Can I have this dance
Everyone cheered as the happy couple kissed at the end of their dance. Eilonwy was chanting mommy and daddy over and over happy that they were happy. It was the perfect moment that couldn't be spoiled. The rest of the wedding was a big success, but soon normal business reared its head just as the festivities were coming to a close. A person had accidently activate their evolution function of their nanites.
Scooping up their daughter everyone quickly changed and headed out. Married life was great, but the world needed it heroes. That was one thing that was never going to change!