The next day...
=AEVERIE=
I looked around my beloved kingdom of Willowmere. Or perhaps, what's left of it. Burned down houses, collapsed fortresses, dead animals, corpses. The sight made my eyes sting. Holding back the tears won't bring everything back, I know. I stared at the three tomb stones in front of me, all bearing the names of my father, my mother and my older brother. My family...my family who died protecting me from Sauron's forces' attack on our kingdom. All the memories come rushing back to me of that fateful night and I felt my heart about to burst with emotions again. My breathing becomes erratic as I grip the fabric of my gown.
'Aeverie..' Thranduil called out to me from behind.
I managed to calm myself before the elven king sees me breaking down again. I didn't want the king of the woodland realm to see me in my most vulnerable state. No, I can't let that happen again. I recalled how I broke down crying to him, yesterday.
'Thranduil..' I spoke carefully, trying not to choke on my tears. I met the elven king's gaze.
Thranduil studied my face carefully. He sighed softly, probably noting the fresh tear tracks on my cheeks.
I looked away from the elf and back to the tombstones.
'My men have gathered all the remaining survivors. They will be taking them to Mirkwood. I will be---'
'Thranduil...' I mumbled softly.
The elven king stared at me, his brow arched at the sudden interruption. He must've felt a bit insulted that I didn't even let him finish. If I were one of his people, it would be a sign of grave disrespect. But then again, his consideration for me, a mere mortal, is beyond titles or positions, I know his heart mourns for my loss too and he knows, I am still too hurt and lost to even think about how to address him or talk to him properly.
I turned my head to look at him again. And a weak, gentle smile formed on my face. 'Thank you... for everything.' I mumbled silently.
Thranduil stayed silent. He nodded lightly and a demure smile appeared on his face.
He smiled. I looked at him curiously. For the years i've known him, i've always regarded him as a cold and strict ruler. Someone who is not to be messed with, but here he is, honoring me with a smile.
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YOU ARE READING
The Elven King's Princess
FantasyPrincess Aeverie Everhart was saved by the Elven King, Thranduil, during the attack of Sauron's army in Willowmere. With her family dead and her kingdom in ruins, she was taken in by Thranduil, together with the surviving people of Willowmere. She...
