The mess hall was filled with loud music, everyone dancing and drinking. Nikola smiles, clapping his hands to the beat before sipping his wine. He grips his young bride's hand under the table. He leans in to kiss her cheek when she weakly pulls away. He frowns but let's get have this moment to herself. He tried to tell himself she'd come around.

He knew from the moment he saw her during the sermon that God and the universe sent her to him. She shall give him legitimate children. She will help him fulfill his purpose, whether she liked it or not.

Children in traditional clothing came over, throwing flower petals at his bride, giggling happily. Nikola joined in with a low chuckle. He squeezed her hand momentarily.

"Children, go find your mothers." He ordered gently.

They run off, their bare feet padding against the wooden floorboards. He shakes his head before sipping his wine again.

Nikola scanned the crowd, making sure everyone looked happy. All did, exactly what he wanted. Including his father who was bound to a wheelchair and couldn't speak anymore. A pang of sadness pierced his chest at the sight. His father gazed in his direction, nodding his head once until Nikola's mother, Sasha tends to him, wiping the drool from his chin.

He hoped his father was proud. That he was living up to his expectations.

"Are you going to be quiet all night?" Nikola asked her. "Or are you going to be lively?" He leaned in to whisper in her ear. "You are very lucky to be married to the leader. Or would you rather have those horny teenage boys leaving you unsatisfied? Hmm? Speak."