The final words echoed those of a soldier's wedding prayer. Similarly, Eileen's concluding vow reflected the commitment of a woman marrying a soldier.
"I, Eileen Elrod, representing the Baron Elrod family, swear in the name of the Gods: eternal love that will never change, obedience without deceit, and for peace to flourish in our new family like the olive tree."
With heartfelt sincerity, Eileen offered her prayer to the gods:
"…to weave a laurel wreath for my knight."
She prayed that Cesare would always be blessed with the glory of victory.2
In truth, Eileen's prayers had seldom been answered by the Gods. However, if they were to grant just one, she hoped it would be today's. It was a special day, and she dared to believe that perhaps the Gods would heed her prayer this time.
