The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 492

Chapter 492: Oaths

As anticipation hung in the air, the bride had yet to make her entrance, prompting hushed speculations among the guests. King Ailwin, sensing the restlessness, took it upon himself to quell any unease. With a reassuring tone, he guaranteed the attendees that the bride would soon grace them with her presence, urging them to continue reveling in the joyous occasion.

The royal servants, quick to distract the guests, skillfully presented an array of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks, accompanied by the enchanting strains of beautiful music. Seizing the opportunity, the guests engaged in lively conversations, discussing important matters with delegates from various kingdoms.

For the delegates, Drayce stood out as the main attraction—a young and the most powerful king across this vast continent.

Cian, recognizing the impending demands on Drayce’s time, couldn’t resist a comment. "Looks like you’re in for a busy evening, King Drayce."

Already prepared to assist his friend Arlan and his family in this awkwrd situation, Drayce who didn’t like to chat much, decided to actively mingle with the guests, aiming to capture their attention.

He turned to Cian with a determined look, saying, "I won’t be the sole participant in this endeavor. You’ll be joining me as well."

Cian flashed a knowing smirk. "I had initially planned to use this opportunity to spend time with my sister."

Drayce, unyielding, responded, "For that, you’re more than welcome to visit Megaris and reunite with your sister." With those words, he gracefully stood up, ready to play his part to help out Griven royal family.

Rising to his feet, Cian acknowledged the Griven Royal family as his relatives, now that Miera was Prince Lenard’s wife. The trio, including Prince Lenard, skillfully engaged the guests, adeptly diverting their attention from the delayed arrival of the bride.

Delighted guests relished the opportunity to interact closely with both King Drayce and Prince Cian, the prospective ruler of the prosperous kingdom of Abetha.

As time ticked away, more than half an hour later Commander Conor Loyset returned to the King’s side, concealing his concern beneath a stoic expression.

"Your Majesty, we have yet to locate the Crown Princess. She is nowhere within the palace," the commander disclosed in hushed tones.

The King’s countenance shifted to a more serious demeanor as he heard the his knight. _{freewebnovel.cσ๓}

The commander added, "It’s been an hour since her absence was discovered by her attendants. It appears she has departed the palace. I dispatched knights to scour the city for her. Considering the time, she cannot have gone far and must still be within the city limits. We will find her."

"Find her at any cost," the King commanded icily. "This wedding is of utmost importance. She must marry Arlan, whether she desires it or not."

"I understand, Your Majesty. Please allow me some more time," the commander reassured.

Arlan, with his keen senses, overheard the exchange. While not entirely surprised, a pang of sadness gripped his heart at the realization that she had indeed departed, choosing not to be with him.

’It’s alright,’ he consoled himself. ’I have to leave. I have to follow her.’ He had made up his mind. He was going to give up on everything. It was the time- time to follow her and be free from all the shackles of royalty.’

As Conor Loyset prepared to leave, Arlan stepped forward, halting him. "No need to search for her."

"Your Highness?"

Arlan raised his hand, signaling the commander to pause, and directed his attention to his father. He knew that what he was about to express would disappoint the King, but it was a choice he had to make. Oriana held a significance greater than the throne, an inheritance that was never truly his by choice. The time had come to convey his decision, one that prioritized love over sovereignty.

"Father, please don’t be disappointed with what I’m about to say, but understand that this is of great importance to me. I can’t afford to waste any more time; I need to find her and follow my heart."

"Arlan, what are you trying to say?"

Slayer, who was standing nearby where Drayce as his knight, was equally distressed a while ago, but could feel at ease now. Arlan’s previous reaction when he was talking to his father, didn’t go unnoticed by him as all the while his worried gaze followed his friend. Each change in Arlan’s expressions could clearly convey him what was going on in his friend’s mind. Slayer had already prepared to leave with Arlan to assist him with any help he needed but by that time Oriana had already arrived there.

Drayce’s gaze remained fixed on the hall entrance, where he had sensed a familiar energy. The owner of that energy was now standing by his side.

Turning to the silver-haired elf, who attended the wedding as one of the esteemed guests from Megaris, Drayce inquired, "Where was she?"

Yorian, with a calm demeanor, responded, "Somewhere she needed to be. Now she is here. Let’s enjoy the wedding." The elf settled into his chair, wearing a light smile and showing little inclination to discuss further.

Drayce shifted his attention to his friend, Arlan, whose eyes remained unwavering from the bride walking down the aisle, seemingly still in disbelief.

While everyone marveled at the beautiful bride, Oriana herself was lost in her own thoughts, her mind weaving oaths to be followed throughout her lifetime. Her mother’s voice echoed, accompanied by blurred images from someone else’s memories.

"[Helena, do not worry. My daughter will always be with your son. She will always protect him. The mistake we have made, my daughter will take care of it.]"

’Mother, whatever mistake you made, I don’t know its nature, but if it has harmed him, then as your daughter, I will bear the consequences. I’ll fulfill the promise you made to his mother. I will protect him.’

Her thoughts shifted to her grandfather.

’Grandpa, despite the past and whatever led to your actions, right or wrong, it was your sword that pierced his mother’s body.’

Her calm gaze turned resolute as she closed the distance to the altar. ’Grandpa, I must atone for all the sins our family committed against the royal family and that innocent boy. I will stand by his side and fulfill the promises our family made. I will live each word spoken by our family in the past as the sole purpose of my life.’

Reaching the altar, she stood in front of the Prince, her calm gaze finally meeting his shocked eyes. Both continued to gaze wordlessly at each other.