Lightning Hearts

Chapter 1

"Princess Adeline Of The Great Kingdom Of Lithidonea!"

My ears perked up at the sound of my name. I walked towards the stairs that descended into the ballroom. I slowly walked down the stone steps, Father taking my hand as I reach the bottom. As I looked around the room, I was in awe. The large room was covered in flowers, the windows that were floor to ceiling length were open and the evening breeze happily flowed through the room.

My midnight blue dress contrasted deeply with the light colors filling the room. The peaches, pinks, greens, reds and even other blues were all of a lighter shade, but I was content in my dress. The long sleeves covered my arms and the cinched in waist made my stomach appear slimmer. I was still too large to fit into mother's corset but I was slowly achieving my goal.

The ballroom was filled with people of a regal status. Father was no doubt trying to find a worthy husband for me and I am well aware the King Marshall wishes for me to wed his son, Prince Chester. He even threw this ball in my honor to try and impress my father. I do believe his plan has worked. There is just one flaw however, I have never met the Prince.

"You look wonderful, Adeline!"

"Thank you, Father. I do hope the Prince agrees."

"I'm sure he will. Oh look! There he is now."

Father pulled me towards a blonde man. He seemed handsome enough, although he had no striking features.

I curtsied before the average prince.

"Good evening, My Prince,"

He bowed before me, like a proper gentleman.

"And a good evening to you, princess. The tales of your unique beauty are but an understatement."

The small talk was always boring and eventually lead to a dance. As we swade to a pleasing melody I learned he like hunting, despised those below him and has never read a book in his life. We could not be a worse match. I excused myself, claiming to need some fresh air, alone, when he offered his company.

I walked towards the nearest window and looked at the stars. I know my mother and brother were watching down on me. My eyes began to well with tears and I tore my gaze away from the sky and observed my surroundings. I saw a beautiful man sitting on the edge of the castle looking at the sky above.

I double checked that no one back at the ball was paying any heed to me before I stepped out onto the ledge myself. I slowly wobbled towards the mysterious stranger. He looked surprised when I sat down next to him but did not say anything. I saw tears fall down his tan cheeks as he looked at the heavens. We sat together in silence, pardon the soft hum of the harp inside.

"Whomever you are mourning, remember that they will always watch over you,"

My voice was soft as it cut through our peaceful silence.

He looked down at me, emphasizing the height difference, before shifting his gaze to his lap. There, in his hands, was a small ring, silver with a tiny, simple diamond. It was so different to anything I had ever seen.

"She was murdered. My mother, I mean. My father killed her and now he's dead too. Death by hanging, an eye for an eye I suppose,"

"My mother and brother died in a fire, they were trying to save the townsfolk trapped in the church. It collapsed before they could get out,"

"I'm sorry for your loss," The man was sincere in what he said. I sent him a small smile.

"I'm sorry for your loss, as well. Was the ring your mother's?'

He glanced down at the object in his hand.

"Yes, it was. It's not much but its all father could afford, you know? He did love her, so much, but he was so angry. I hope they are happy together, up there I mean." He motioned towards the sky with a sad smile.

"I think it's beautiful," I smiled, "Where are my manners! My name is Adeline."

"I'm Elijah." The sad man said.

We sat together in comfortable silence for no more than 10 minutes before I heard father calling for me.

"I must go. It was wonderful to meet you, Elijah. I do hope to see you again."

Said man grabbed my hand, laid a sweet kiss on it before whispering...

"The pleasure was all mine, Adeline."