A couple seasons later…

“You’re nervous. Why are you nervous, Matt?” Woods asked, his nimble hands working on my bowtie. He stood on the table to be at the level of my tie while I sat in a chair, fidgeting. Rock stood beside him, a small smile playing on his lips. Reed sat next to me, quietly observing as he fiddled with a golden fishhook. The three sprites had stayed with me all morning, helping me get ready for the ceremony. I’d insisted I didn’t need their help, but honestly, I did. The ceremony was starting soon, and when the sprites had checked on me, I’d been procrastinating, trying to calm my nerves by breaking stones in the cave.

“I’m not nervous,” I lied, swallowing hard.

“Well, I’m not nervous at all,” Woods said. “I’m sure no one will notice when Clay falls from the rafters, or when Holly hides the rings. Or when Reed tries to fish someone’s hat off their head during the ceremony.” Woods chuckled dryly as he finished tying the bowtie, something my shaky hands had failed to do.

Reed put away his fishing hook, looking sheepish. “I was only joking when I said I’d do that.” He and Rock exchanged a look before he added, “Though, it would be hilarious. Some of those women wear such atrocious hats!”

My stomach knotted at the thought of the chapel filled with the people of Sagewood. Leia had insisted on a big wedding. If it had been up to me, we would’ve eloped back in the summer. But she wanted all her brothers to be there, which was the main source of my anxiety. As was customary, I’d asked everyone’s permission to marry her—including her dad. Some brothers were easier to convince than others.

“Everything is going to go well,” Woods said matter-of-factly. “So, why are you nervous?”

I was clad in my old dress clothes, the ones I was wearing when I stumbled into this world. They’d been repaired, cleaned, and tailored to fit my new, more muscular physique. The ensemble was complemented by subtle accents from this world: a dark green bowtie from Reed, a tailored suit jacket from Teo, and a boutonnière made by Holly and Clay. Leia had a matching bouquet of the same winter flowers. Everything was perfect, down to the last detail. I was even wearing my old dress shoes from Grandpa’s funeral. In my pocket, I had two etherite rings made by Titus’ skilled hand.

I sighed, adjusting the bowtie. “I don’t know. Just pre-wedding jitters, I guess.” I tried to keep my voice even.

Woods frowned. “You’ve faced corrupt horrors and certain death, not to mention a dragon, an eldritch spirit, and a fire that burned down your entire farm—and you’re worried about a little wedding ceremony?”

“This is different,” I replied. “Back then, I only had myself to worry about—and you guys, of course. You’ve always been there to watch my back. But this… this is a whole new level of responsibility. I’m not sure I’m ready for it, yet.”

A small, genuine smile crossed Woods’ face. “If there’s one thing I know about you, Matt, it’s that you’re strong enough to overcome whatever challenge may come your way. And we sprites will always have your back—and that includes today.”

“Thanks, Woods.” I smiled, feeling some of my nerves ease.

Woods nodded. “You’re making the right choice. You have nothing to worry about.”

Rock was silent as usual until he spoke up with his signature word.

“Rock,” the burly sprite said, and I glanced at Woods.

“He says the ceremony is the easy part,” Woods translated. “What you really should be nervous about is your wedding night.”

A scarlet blush spread across my face, and Rock and Reed burst out laughing. Up until this point, I’d been too nervous to even think about what my wedding night might be like. I just hoped I wouldn’t faint during the ceremony. If I could make it through this afternoon without any major hiccups, then I could think about this evening and everything that’ll entail.

“Enough teasing,” Woods said. It’s time to go. Let’s not keep the bride waiting.” He, Rock, and Reed hopped down from the table and walked toward the door.

Since I had no family, I’d wanted the sprites to attend the wedding, but that was difficult considering their reputation among common folk. Even centuries after the culling, many remained distrustful of sprites. Luckily, the chapel in town boasted lofty ceilings adorned with thick wooden rafters. A few days prior, the sprites and I had visited to check if it would be possible for them all to sit up there during the ceremony. It would offer a perfect view of the proceedings but was dark and out of sight, ensuring they would all remain unseen during the procession. Knowing I would have their silent support during one of the most significant moments of my life comforted me.

Even though it was winter, it was a mild day, with the sun shining and a gentle breeze rustling through the forest. We all piled into my wagon, one of the newer additions to my farm, and the sprites hid in some crates I had thrown in the back. Goldie pulled us all into town. Once the coast was clear, the sprites swiftly exited the crates and darted through the chapel’s back door, which had been left open by Leia just for them.

Standing before the arched doorways, I took a deep breath and walked through, my heart beating wildly.

I found a small, empty room off to the side of the sanctuary, a place to gather my scattered thoughts. Taking a few deep breaths, I tried to calm my racing mind. There was a small bench, and I sank onto it, the soft chatter of guests filtering in from the hall. The scent of winter flowers lingered, mingling with the cool air. I knew the ceremony was about to start, but I figured they couldn’t start without me. After a few more moments of near silence, I stood, trying to convince myself that I was ready.

Just as I reached for the door, a familiar voice called my name, stopping me in my tracks.

“Matt?” Leia’s voice, soft yet unmistakable, reached me through the stillness.

I glanced around, puzzled, until I realized where I was: a confessional. Leia must have been on the other side of the screen. A smile spread across my face. “Leia? What are you doing here? You know it's bad luck for us to see each other before the ceremony.”

“I can’t see you. Can you see me?” Her voice held a hint of panic.

“No, I can’t see you.” I leaned back against the wall, feeling the tension ease from my shoulders at the sound of her voice. It was as if her presence, even unseen, could quiet my restless thoughts. “Why are you hiding in here, Leia? You’re not getting cold feet, are you?”

She giggled softly. “Of course not. I saw you come in here and I just wanted to hear your voice.” Her words were filled with warmth and a touch of nervous excitement. “Did the sprites make it here all right?”

“Yeah, I think so. I haven’t heard any screaming or panicked shouting, so I think they all made it without being seen.”

“That’s good. And how are you feeling?”

“Excited. A little nervous, but mostly excited. You?”

“Exactly the same,” she replied. “It seems like everyone in Sagewood is here. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the town this enthusiastic before—about anything.”

I laughed softly, resting my hand against the wall that separated us. I imagined her doing the same on the other side, our fingers almost touching. “I can’t wait to marry you,” I found myself saying. “This waiting is torture.”

“I can’t wait, either,” she said. “But the time’s almost upon us. We won’t have to wait much longer.”

“That’s true,” I replied. “Anything you want to get off your chest before we do this thing?”

“Get off my chest? Behave yourself, Matthew Miller!”

“No! It’s an expression.” I couldn’t help but grin and blush at the same time. “What I meant was, is there anything you want to say to me before we get married?”

“Oh.” She giggled again. “Only that I love you, farm boy.”

“I love you too, delivery girl.”

Someone knocked gently on the other side of the wall, and I heard another muffled voice, but I couldn’t make out who it was. “Looks like the wait is almost over,” Leia said. There was a shuffling sound as if she were standing. “I have to go now. I’ll see you at the altar.”

“See you at the altar,” I echoed, my voice brimming with anticipation.

***

I stood with Melvin under an archway woven with vibrant green ivy and delicate white roses—an altar of polished granite resting between us. With a warm smile, Melvin smoothed out the front of his new robe, which shimmered like it was imbued with some sort of spell. His old one had been too ratty to officiate a wedding, and the sprites had gifted him a new one just for this occasion.

Ronny, a surprisingly talented harpist, played a beautiful melody that filled the air, setting a serene atmosphere as we all waited. Leia had been right, the whole town of Sagewood was in attendance. I recognized every face, finally having learned all their names. I was touched they’d all shown up for us. The Rockborns were one of the founding families of Sagewood, and even a few out-of-town dwarves had come to show their support.

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My best man stood beside me: Axel, who had eagerly claimed the role even before we announced our engagement. Alongside him were Titus, Rowan, Merrick, and Otis. They were my groomsmen. Leia had chosen various women from town as her bridesmaids, and I tried not to dwell on the fact that I had dated most of them at one point during her absence. Thankfully, none of those dates had gone beyond the first.

The music faded, and all eyes turned to the aisle. Leia appeared, escorted by her father, Abe. She looked radiant in the green silk dress I had given her a year ago. Her hair fell in loose waves, with clusters of pearls woven throughout. Ronny played a new song as she approached, and a grin spread across my face. It was a soft version of the Jurassic Park theme that I’d helped him compose—one of my all-time favorite movies. All my nervousness evaporated in that moment. I knew, without a doubt, that this was the right decision. Pure happiness filled me as Leia took her place beside me.

She took my hand, squeezing it gently. We turned to face Melvin as he began the ceremony. I tried to concentrate on his words, but my thoughts kept drifting to Leia. She looked radiant, and I felt a wave of gratitude for the twist of fate that had pulled me from my monotonous life into this magical one.

“Friends and loved ones, we gather here today to witness the union of these two young people,” the wizard said, “Leia Rockborn of Sagewood, and Matthew Miller of Phoenix. It is an honor and a joy to be here as they embark on this new chapter of their lives together.”

Next to me, Axel sniffed and wiped his eyes with the knuckle of one stubby finger.

Pull it together, dude.

Melvin continued, ignoring the dwarf’s sniffling. “They say there exists a magic much older than the spells we weave today, an energy so deep and powerful that it echoes through entire generations. That magic, of course, is love. Marriage is a journey, one that brings both triumphs and challenges. It is a promise to support one another, to grow together, and to savor every moment. The love you share is a testament to the beautiful possibilities that come when two people decide to build a life together.”

I looked into Leia’s eyes, and she looked into mine. She was perfect, and in that moment, I knew how incredibly fortunate I was to be here with her—at the start of a new adventure.

“That life,” Melvin went on, “is like a freshly sprouted seed, one which requires constant nourishment—but with the proper care, it can grow into a mighty tree with branches reaching into the future.” He looked to me with a grandfatherly glint in his eye. “We will now hear from the couple as they exchange vows with one another.”

I cleared my throat, recalling the words I’d committed to memory. “Leia,” I began, “when I first came to Sagewood, I felt like I didn’t know anything about this world. I was sleeping in a chicken coop, overwhelmed, and didn’t know the first thing about farming—which I’m sure is a surprise to absolutely no one.” Chuckles rippled through the chapel. “But that being said… I knew even less about love. That all changed the day that I met you. In the months that followed, you became my best friend. You taught me how to get involved with the community, and now, my life is richer than it’s ever been in my entire life.” I cleared my throat again, suddenly a bit emotional. “I promise to take care of you for the rest of my days. I promise to encourage and support you in everything you do. And I promise to love and cherish you the way you deserve to be cherished and loved.”

I squeezed her hands as I finished speaking.

Leia’s eyes were glistening as she beamed at me. “Matt,” she began softly, “I used to think that my life was so boring. I thought this town was a sleepy little village where nothing exciting ever happened. And then, I met you. You taught me to see the beauty that had always been right in front of me, and to grow where I’m planted, even if it isn’t where I expected—or even wanted—to be. Life’s never boring with you, and I’m excited to see what adventures we’ll have together in the years to come.” She squeezed my hands tightly, her eyes focused intently on mine. “I promise to love you, and to always be by your side no matter what life throws at us. And, though I promised my dad not to reveal all the family secrets, I promise to help you improve your crop-growing game—free of charge.”

Everyone in the audience chuckled at that last part, all except for Axel, who sobbed loudly as tears streamed down his bearded face. Titus reached forward and discretely smacked him upside the head, which seemed to do the trick to get him to quiet down.

Carter then came forward bearing the two etherite rings on a satin pillow. His beard was neatly brushed, and he wore a tight-fitting dress tunic that made him look like an overstuffed sausage. I nodded to him, took the rings, and placed them on our fingers—first on Leia’s, and then on my own.

Melvin, grinning widely, clapped his hands together and declared, “Wonderful! Now, by the power vested in me, it is my pleasure to pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.”

We both leaned in and shared our first kiss as a married couple.

The chapel erupted in applause, the loudest cheers coming from the rowdy Rockborns seated on the front row. I even heard the distinct voices of my sprite companions coming from the rafters above. Their presence, along with the encouragement of all my friends in Sagewood, made my heart soar.

As if on cue, words shimmered in front of my face.

You have met the conditions to keep levelling your farm. Banked experience will be added to your current level.

More notifications awaited my attention, but I mentally silenced them, their words shimmering out of existence before my eyes. I wanted to be fully present in this moment, undistracted by the new levels and perks I had gained from passing the levelling condition.

Still smiling, I leaned in and kissed Leia a second time, and again, the crowd cheered.

***

In a festival-like fashion, the town had prepared a grand banquet for the reception. Steaming dishes of food, provided by Harvey, Cindy, Melvin, and many other townsfolk, were set up to celebrate our union. Tables and chairs had been arranged the night before, enough to accommodate everyone in attendance.

The guests stood from their seats and shuffled out of the chapel, happy chatter filling the room.

I still held Leia’s hand after the ceremony was over. She smiled warmly at me as we made our way from the altar, and my heart fluttered within my chest.

This is my wife. My wife. The thought was so crazy to me, I could hardly believe it.

As the procession made its way toward the feast outside, I decided to sneak another kiss while I thought nobody was looking.

“Gross.” A voice came from the rafters, followed by snickering. It sounded like Holly, but I couldn’t be sure. The giggling was followed by a quiet shushing sound, definitely from Woods, and Leia and I chuckled as we listened to the many tiny footsteps as the sprites left the chapel and returned to the farm to have their own celebration.

Drinks flowed, and good food was shared amongst the townsfolk. The feast included both sweet and savory dishes from Cindy, sides by Melvin—although few were brave enough to sample them—drinks from Harvey, and a massive applepeach cobbler for dessert. There were also some dwarven dishes brought by the Rockborns and the out-of-towners, as well as a keg of good old fashioned dwarven moonshine that was being passed around. My contribution had been ice cream, which I wasn’t sure would be popular for a winter reception, but the dwarves all seemed eager to try it.

To keep the party-goers warm, we’d lined the outskirts with torches, and Melvin had enchanted them with a heating spell. Standing next to them felt like standing next to a massive heat lamp, though Melvin had told us the magic probably wouldn’t last long into the night.

I sat next to Leia, my eyes lost in her beauty. Everyone came up to congratulate us, but it was all a blur until the music began to play. Leia grabbed my hand and led me to the dance floor, and I was reminded of the first time we danced on my ‘birthday’ at the inn. We were joined by other couples, and soon, the entire reception was bustling with cheerful, dancing townsfolk. I wasn’t sure how many hours passed, but they went by fast with her by my side.

Too soon, an evening chill settled over the festivities, informally ending the celebration. The torches began to flicker, and guests began to retire to their homes, offering warm wishes as they departed. Each person extended a handshake or a pat on the back, congratulating us as they left. Axel drunkenly hugged me and said with a slurred whisper, “If you do anything to hurt her, I’ll pickle you alive and eat you fer’ supper!” I assured him that I would take good care of his sister, and his father and brothers half dragged, half carried away.

A breathtaking winter sunset adorned the sky, its hues running together like watercolor paint. Soft pinks, muted purples, and fiery oranges melded together, casting a warm glow over the snow-covered landscape. The clouds, outlined in gold, seemed to float in a sea of color. As the last rays of sunlight disappeared beneath the horizon, Leia shivered, feeling the chill as the warmth from the sun and the enchanted torches slowly faded away.

“Here, you must be freezing,” I said, stripping my suitcoat off and draping it around her.

She gave me a coy smile, leaning in and whispering, “I’m only cold because I’m not wearing anything under this dress.”

I could feel my face burn hot, and Leia laughed, pulling my jacket tighter around her. “Let’s get out of here. My family will take care of the cleanup.”

We climbed onto my wagon, which her brothers had decorated with runes I thankfully couldn’t read, and Leia tossed her bouquet to a gathered group of women as we rode away. Surprisingly, the ringbearer, Carter, caught it, which elicited laughter from the gathered townspeople.

We waved goodbye to the town of Sagewood, and I flicked the reigns to get the wagon headed down the dirt path back to the farm.

***

As the farmhouse came into view, I saw that somebody had already lit some candles in the windows, causing a warm light to emanate from the building.

Leia turned to me, looking concerned. “Did you tell the sprites they can’t stay in your room anymore?”

The color drained from my face. “I didn’t.” I hadn’t even thought about it. My mind had been too preoccupied with making it through to the ceremony that I’d forgotten to let the sprites know they couldn’t stay with me anymore. This is going to be an awkward conversation.

“There’s no need.” Woods’ voice startled us both, and I noticed he’d been waiting for us as we pulled in front of the farmhouse. He smiled, as if he enjoyed scaring the two of us.

I hopped off the wagon and approached him, crouching to his level.

He continued. “All of the sprites are going to the south to spend the rest of the winter with the southern clan. The others are already waiting for me south of your farm.”

I blinked, taken aback. This was the first time I’d heard of this. “But why? I need you guys."

Woods chuckled. “It’s winter right now. There’s nothing to plant, and since we cleared the caves, you can freely explore without the threat of monsters. Corruption’s gone, so you don’t have to worry about anything. You don’t really need our help this season.” He gave each of us a knowing look. “Plus, it’ll be nice for you two to have the farm to yourselves for a while. You don’t want to have to explain to Clay why he can’t stay in your bed with you. And I’m certainly not going to explain it to him, not for a few more decades at least.”

Both Leia and I blushed and exchanged a sidelong glance. The sprites had always stayed with me in the farmhouse, but now that I was married, nights would look a lot different from here on out.

Woods offered a small smile before continuing. “You still have the sprite signal, right? You can call us back anytime. If that’s something you want.”

I glanced at Leia, and she smiled and gave a slight nod. I turned back to Woods. “Of course. I’ll need your help if I’m going to get this farm to level ten.” A sudden wave of sadness washed over me as I realized I wouldn’t get the chance to say goodbye to the others. The sprites had been by my side since the early days of my journey in this new world. Not having them around would be a huge adjustment. Tears pricked my eyes as I realized just how rapidly my life was changing.

Woods cleared his throat, a sheepish expression crossing his face as he looked between Leia and me. “Well, I’m not going to keep you two out here any longer. Congratulations on the marriage. Maple left you some treats inside.” He hefted a bag over his shoulder and extended a hand for me to shake. I took it, and we exchanged a nod. Without another word, he departed, making his way southward, disappearing into the darkness.

Leia stepped up next to me, slipping her hand into mine. I shot her a grin before grabbing her around the waist and lifting her effortlessly into my arms. I was pretty sure it was tradition to carry your new wife through the doorway of your home. Both of us giggled as we ascended the steps of the porch.

The sprites had set up candles and rose petals throughout the farmhouse, and Maple had left a small, sprite-sized wedding cake for us to share.

“Do you want to enjoy this now or…?” Leia gave me a meaningful look “Do you maybe want to work up an appetite first?”