AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I shook my head. “I assumed it would be a traditional spellcaster ceremony.”
Again, I was met with looks of disbelief.
I decided to be frank. “This wedding isn’t about Prince Maedras or myself. This isn’t a regular wedding. It’s a political statement.”
Prince Maedras’s face hardened, but he said nothing. His hands clenched into fists on the table.
Queen Menthe leaned forward, her face earnest. “That doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful and special.”
I shrugged. “I leave that to you then. I trust your judgment.”
After all, they were the experts in these things.
I smiled politely. “When will this wedding take place? I would prefer it to be sooner than later.”
Prince Aldaren and Queen Menthe looked at each other, and I knew they were silently communicating.
“Ten maends,” Prince Aldaren finally said.
I calculated it in my head. Just over ten years.
“I’m mortal. Ten maends is too long. I would like it to take place sooner. Less than one maend.”
Now it was Queen Menthe and Prince Aldaren’s turn to be shocked.
“That’s impossible,” Prince Aldaren said.
Queen Menthe nodded. “There is simply too much to arrange in such a short amount of time.”
“I’m sure the Aeglire can handle it,” I said sweetly. “They are the best planners in Manzimor. And If it’s not possible, I can’t stay an honored guest for ten years, Your Majesties.”
The servants looked scandalized at the thought. Their eyes were wide, and their mouths were agape.
“This is a royal wedding.” Prince Maedras said, his voice tight. “It will take time to plan.”
“I understand. But I would like it to be sooner, if possible.” I repeated. “But if it’s not possible, I’ll return to Midar till the wedding.” I looked down at my lap. “Staying unmarried here for such a long time would be unusual for someone of my station.”
That seemed to do the trick. Social customs were important to the elves.
“Of course, my dear.” Queen Menthe said slowly. “If that is what you wish, then we will do our best to accommodate your request.”
Prince Aldaren nodded. “It will be our pleasure. The soonest we can hold the wedding is 8 caeds.”
Almost two months. They moved at a snail’s pace here. But it was better than ten years.
“Thank you, Your Majesties.” I inclined my head graciously. “I look forward to the wedding.”
“It’s not the first time we planned a wedding in such a short amount of time.” Queen Menthe said with a smile. “My mother did the same thing. It will not be as extravagant as my wedding.”
Elvish weddings were a multiple-day affair, with feasts and celebrations that lasted for days. I was going to have to get through it. But at least it would be over before I knew it. Midarian weddings were the same way, so I was used to the idea of a big production.
But an Elvish wedding? That was going to be something new.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. That suits me perfectly.” I looked at Prince Maedras, who was observing me with an unreadable look on his face. “Will that be a problem for you, Prince Maedras?”
He shook his head. “No, wife. I will be happy to have a more intimate wedding.”
The queen nodded. “Then it’s settled. We will start making the arrangements right away.”
