A Kingdom's Vow

CHAPTRE 6-KAI

Days passed, and all I did was drink and crack jokes. The castle was buzzing with preparations, both inside and out. Guests had started to arrive, ready to stay for a week or two, as the wedding ceremony was more than a single night. In ancient Ainsi tradition, it lasted six nights, though over time, it had been reduced to three.

Then there was the infamous 66 Nights Rule: the bride and groom were required to share the same room for 66 nights. After that, they could have separate chambers—because, as royalty, it was uncommon to share bedrooms. The thought of spending 66 nights with that stubborn woman was maddening. I wasn't ready for marriage, but I was ready to reunite with my cousins and celebrate for three days straight.

Sadly, as the groom, I wasn't allowed such indulgence. Instead of joining the festivities, I was expected to sit down and get to know my wife better. Disgusting.

I was in the garden, feeding the ducks with my younger cousin, Eri . She was like a sister to me—only seven years old, while I was twenty-four. Despite the 17-year age gap, she understood me better than anyone. I cherished our conversations; no one else bothered to ask about something as random as my third-favorite color anymore. So, I made sure to spend as much time with her as possible.

She was thrilled about my upcoming wedding, even though she admitted she wished she could be the bride instead. That was fine by me—I loved her. I never had a real sister, but she was the closest thing I'd ever had.

While we played, my gaze drifted to Lord Downfork and his son Ian in the garden. They were talking with a servant, their expressions tense. Curious, I approached quietly, and they hadn't noticed me yet.

"I'm afraid she'll run off with that Tyler!" Lord Downfork's voice was firm, his tone laced with frustration.

Ian sighed, shaking his head. "She wouldn't dare take such a risk, Father. Besides, Athena's visiting her every hour to ensure everything stays under control."

"And you trust Athena?" Downfork retorted sharply. "Of course, she'll side with Layla over us."

Layla? Oh, Elayla. Must be a nickname. They were worried she might run away? Honestly, I hope she does. Tyler... The name rang a bell, though I couldn't place where I'd heard it before.

Lord Downfork finally noticed me and immediately adjusted his expression. "Prince Kai! My respects!" he exclaimed, bowing deeply. Ian followed suit.

I returned the bow out of politeness—he was the same age as my father, after all.

"We are very pleased about this marriage," he added.

I smirked, letting the sarcasm drip from my voice. "Oh, me too. I simply can't wait to have your charmingly annoying daughter as my wife."

Respect, huh? What a joke.

Lord Downfork tensed, while Ian burst into laughter. I simply smiled back, maintaining my composure. Clearing his throat, Lord Downfork spoke, his tone serious.

"Prince Kai, if you don't mind, we would like to bring Elayla to the palace in the coming days."

I raised an eyebrow. Why would they want that? Oh, of course—they're scared she'll run away. After all, there were still three days until the wedding.

"And why is that?" I asked, feigning curiosity.

"It's for the best," he replied. "This way, we can avoid any... unwanted circumstances."

Unwanted circumstances? So, she really was planning to run away. They had no idea that being in the palace would only make her escape easier. And truthfully? I wanted her to run.

"Sure," I said, masking my amusement. "I'll speak with my father about it and make sure a room is prepared for her."

"Excellent!" His face lit up with relief, as if the problem had been solved.

Oh, Lord Downfork, I thought, stifling a smirk. I almost feel sorry for you.