“Please all forgive me,” said Gresunda, “I spent many days adrift on the sea in the Skuddle and I was rescued by the Gods. I know that I cannot make attonement but please let me stay and watch the wedding and then I will leave again.” She then turned towards Mara. “I know that I can never make amends but please accept my deepest and heartfelt apology. What I did was inexcusable brought on by false pride and I beg your forgiveness.”

Mara could no longer stand watching Gresunda’s utter misery. She ran down the aisle and hugged the old woman and repeatedly told her that she forgave her. Not only forgave her but insisted that she remain and that a place would be set up for her along with the other midwives. Mara’s actions melted everyone’s hearts so the Gresunda was welcomed back home.

The Shaman heaved a heavy sigh of relief. At first he thought that there was going to be trouble but his panic had turned to relief. He reached into his pocket to retrieve a taschentuch to wipe his sweaty brow. Taking deep breaths he steadied himself and to all outward appearances he appeared calm as he waited for Mara to make her way back up the aisle.

It had all been too much for Hulderic. The thought that there was going to be an objection and that he could lose his beloved Mara this close was just too much. He had slid down to a sitting position and his white complexion had turned an even whiter shade of pale. Slowly he was trying to raise himself back to his feet. As Mara reached the front Hulderic had composed himself again.

The Shaman waved his arms for all to settle and then began. “Now that the excitement has finished we can continue.” He turned towards Mara, “Do you Mara Goddess of the Sea take Hulderic the White Wolf to be your husband and mate through life and in all things be faithful?”
Mara smiled across to Hulderic as she replied “I do.”

“Do you Hulderic the White Wolf take Mara Goddess of the Sea to be your wife and mate through life and in all things be faithful?”
Hulderic never hesitated as he replied “I do.”

The Shaman raised his Sceptre waved it about while saying some incantations in the old language then he touched Mara and Hulderic gently on the shoulders with the Sceptre. “The Gods have blessed this union so therefore you are now joined as husband and wife.”

There was an uproar of excited voices all wanting to congratulate the couple but tradition had to be followed.