A Royal Obligation
Chapter 121: Congratulations & Well-Wishes

Chapter 121: Congratulations & Well-Wishes

Kaelix and Eirik clasped each other’s hands as they made their way back down the aisle, hearts pounding with the weight of the moment.

They were no longer just princes from different kingdoms, they were now partners, not bound by just duty, but by a love that had grown in the quiet moments, away from the eyes of the world.

Today, they stood united, a beacon of hope and commitment that warmed the hearts of all who had gathered to witness their union.

As they reached the end of the aisle, Eirik’s brothers were the first to approach, their faces brimming with pride and affection.

Julian rushed forward and pulled Eirik into a tight hug that was equal parts fierce and tender. Eirik felt Julian’s chest rise and fell rapidly, the barely contained sobs vibrating through his frame.

"I’m so happy for you, little brother," Julian choked out, his voice thick with emotion. He sniffled against Eirik’s shoulder, the usually composed prince openly shedding tears. The moment was raw, real, and so unlike Julian, whose mischievous demeanor was known to deflect his deeper emotions.

Eirik hugged him back just as tightly, overwhelmed by the support. Julian eventually pulled away, wiping his eyes as he turned to Kaelix. He gave a genuine, if slightly watery, smile as he embraced him too. "Take care of him, Kaelix. He’s the best of us," Julian said, his tone hold a mix of humor and seriousness that was so uniquely him.

Kaelix nodded, his grip firm and reassuring on Julian’s back. "I promise, Julian. I won’t let him down."

Lucian followed, he stepped forward with a calm composure that belied the intensity in his eyes. He wrapped Eirik in a strong embrace, his touch filled with a brotherly pride that spoke louder than any words. "You’ve made us so proud," Lucian whispered, his grip firm and reassuring, grounding Eirik in a way only an older brother could.

Eirik squeezed him back, feeling the weight of Lucian’s support like a steady anchor. When Lucian pulled back, he turned to Kaelix, extending a hand that Kaelix grasped readily.

They shared a brief, knowing look before Lucian gave a playful chop-knuckle handshake, something they had developed in quiet moments of camaraderie. "You’ve got a brother in me, Kaelix. Always," Lucian said, his voice filled with the unspoken promise of loyalty. "Don’t ever forget that."

Kaelix grinned, grateful for Lucian’s genuine acceptance. "And you in me, Lucian. Thank you."

Amarok was next, stepping forward with a grin that brightened his usually reserved features. He looked at both Eirik and Kaelix, his expression brimming with a joy that wasn’t often seen on his face.

"Congratulations, your Highnesses," Amarok said, his voice warm. "I’m so happy for you both." He bowed deeply, though his smile lingered.

Kaelix nodded, genuinely moved by Amarok’s sincerity. "Thank you, Amarok. That means a lot." Now that he had been accepted by Eirik’s family, Kaelix was beginning to understand the complex relationship between Amarok and the twins.

Eirik beamed, knowing how rare it was for Amarok to express himself so openly. "Thanks, Amarok."

Theron approached with his characteristic stoicism, but there was a glint of pride in his eyes as he looked at Eirik. "You’ve done well, Eirik," he said simply, his voice low but charged with emotion. There was no need for grand speeches; the pride in his tone spoke volumes.

Eirik smiled, appreciating Theron’s quiet strength. "Thank you brother. I wouldn’t be here without your support."

Theron turned to Kaelix, giving him a curt nod of approval. "Kaelix, you’ve proven yourself worthy of him. Keep doing so."

Kaelix met Theron’s gaze with respect, understanding the deeper meaning behind those words. "I will, Theron. Always."

Ella and Theo rushed forward, hugging Eirik in unison. "We’re so happy for you!" Ella exclaimed, her face beaming. She then turned to Kaelix with a playful smirk. "If you ever hurt my cousin, I’ll personally gut your intestines out," she threatened, her tone light but her expression fierce enough to draw laughter from everyone around.

Kaelix chuckled, raising his hands in mock surrender. "I wouldn’t dare, Ella."

Darren and Lysander, Kaelix’s cousins, were next. Darren clapped Kaelix on the shoulder, grinning mischievously. "Congratulations, cousin. I can’t wait to hear about your first night together. Eirik, don’t let him be too gentle," he teased, making Eirik turn crimson while Kaelix burst into laughter.

"Darren!" Eirik sputtered, cheeks aflame as he tried to glare at Darren, though his embarrassment only made everyone laugh harder.

Julian leaned over to Kaelix, a teasing glint in his eye. "You better handle my brother with care tonight. Don’t go too hard, Kaelix."

"Julian!" Eirik’s voice was a strangled whisper-shout, mortified by the implication. He wished the ground would open up and swallow him whole.

Kaelix’s laughter was deep and infectious, and he leaned down to kiss Eirik on the forehead. "I’ll be gentle," he whispered, making Eirik’s blush deepen even further.

Drystan and Sadiki approached Kaelix and Eirik with wide smiles, the joy in their eyes unmistakable as they stood before their masters. They bowed deeply, each movement precise, showing the utmost respect.

"Congratulations, Your Highnesses," Drystan said, his usual stern expression softening into a rare smile. "May your union bring prosperity and strength to Zephyros."

Sadiki nodded in agreement, his expression uncharacteristically soft. "Congratulations, Your Highnesses." His gaze lingered on Eirik, and for a moment, the fierce protector in Sadiki softened, revealing a rare smile. "May the winds of the realm always guide you."

Kaelix and Eirik exchanged glances, grateful for the heartfelt words of their most trusted servants. Eirik pulled them both into a brief embrace, his gratitude unspoken but clearly felt. "Thank you, both of you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "We wouldn’t be here without your loyalty."

Kaelix gave them a nod of acknowledgment, his eyes gleaming with appreciation.

Drystan and Sadiki bowed once more before stepping back, allowing the newlyweds to continue receiving their well-wishers.

As the final congratulations from family, friends and guests were given, the newly wedded made their way to the courtyard where the reception would be held.

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