The Queen of Elysium

Chapter 84 - Homecoming

Roth follows the path of the river towards the island of Avalon and Elissa's heart leaps at the sight of her home. The sun breaks through puce coloured clouds, putting off the threat of snow.

The dragon dives down suddenly, causing her and Tabbi to cling onto each other and shriek as their stomachs are left behind. With Fuego hot on their tail, they swoop through the stone gate and land on the lawn by the terrace.

As soon as her feet touch the ground, there is a humanoid blur of dark green and white and the next moment she is being enfolded in a tight embrace.

"Witnessing you fighting Hades was not something a parent should have to endure." Aldebaran's voice is brittle, like a structure about to crumble.

"I'm alright, father," she reassures and her magic rises in soothing waves, sweeping away the discordant jangling of his soul. When he pulls away, he is restored to the serene and quietly assured elf that she is accustomed to.

Arm in arm, they stroll towards the palace, their feet crunching against frosted grass.

"I am impressed with your young man." At her bemused expression, he goes on to elucidate. "Prince Aren of the Animages."

Her cheek's heat and she protests, "He's hardly mine."

"Says the sun who holds the moon in its thrall." Aldebaran gives her an indulgent smile. "I must admit that I thought his plan foolhardy when he came to visit me in Alfheimr and ..."

"Aren came to Alfheimr?"

"Indeed, I believe much of his journey mirrored your own. He sought Morpheus's council on where Hades was most likely to strike. The boy must have some mettle, for he swayed the king to his cause."

Garrett is awaiting them at the palace entrance, wearing his formal dress armour. He gives a smart bow. "Your Majesty, welcome home. I have been liaising with the Dragonite forces and thought that you would like to know that there are no other signs of incursions or weaknesses in the barrier."

"Thank you, Garrett." She smiles warmly at the head of her guards, not chastising him for the 'Majesty' which he only uses on the most serious of occasions.

"I should also warn you that you have quite the welcome party awaiting you. Half of Avalon it would seem has gathered on the bridge this morning and are holding a vigil until your return."

"In this inclement weather?" Elissa bites her lip and turns to her father, silently seeking his guidance.

"Your friends are also most keen for your return." Aldebaran flourishes a hand at the elegant building's façade. "However, they are warm and can wait a little while longer. Go and see to your people first."

Aldebaran heads inside, while she and Garrett continue walking through the palace grounds towards the main gate. Once they have passed through the portcullis, Elissa stops stone dead and stares.

The entire bridge is packed, with both rich and poor standing shoulder to shoulder. Despite the warm coats, there is much stamping of feet and rubbing of hands, and many have a ruddy complexion. Any discomfort is immediately forgotten, for their faces brighten and a deafening cheer goes up.

"You underestimate just how much esteem, nay love the people hold you in." Garrett lowers his voice. "You faced and defeated Elysium's greatest threat in nearly a millennium."

Still her legs do not want to move. "But what if I had failed?"

"Then every man, wild folk and beast would have taken up arms to avenge you and carry on your fight." There is no deceit or bluster in his expression. "You have earned your title of High Queen."