The day dawned perfect—clear skies, gentle breeze, the kind of weather that felt like blessing.
Glad stood in the community center's bridal room, staring at her reflection.
The gown was beautiful—white with subtle wing slits, delicate embroidery depicting scenes from her life: a small house in Bohol, a witch's curse, a cat watching over her, a drone in the sky, a community rising.
"You look beautiful," Kim said, tears in her eyes.
"I feel terrified."
"That's normal. Even for supernatural creatures."
Rigen adjusted her train. "Tita, there are 1,200 guests out there. Humans, creatures, even some reporters. Are you ready?"
Glad took a deep breath.
"As I'll ever be."
The ceremony was held in the Anino Garden, the statue watching over everything.
Ariel waited at the altar, looking impossibly handsome in traditional Filipino attire adapted for shifting. His dog ears kept popping out—a nervous tell that made Glad smile.
The music began—human instruments and engkanto magic blending into something otherworldly.
Glad walked down the aisle alone.
Not because she had no one to give her away.
But because she'd decided no one should.
"I belong to no one but myself," she'd explained. "And I choose to give myself to Ariel. That's my choice. My power."
The crowd understood.
Congressman Diomedes conducted the ceremony with dignity and warmth.
"Do you, Gladys, take this creature to be your lawfully wedded partner, in all forms, through all challenges, for all your centuries?"
"I do."
"And do you, Ariel, take this creature—"
"I DO." His ears were fully out now, tail wagging. "Sorry. Nervous. Definitely do."
The crowd laughed.
"By the power vested in me by the Supernatural Council and the Republic of the Philippines, I pronounce you bonded. You may kiss—carefully, watch the wings."
They kissed.
The crowd erupted.
And somewhere, a warm breeze purred.