Without hesitation, Balin's right hand stretches forward, the dagger in his palm transforming into a sword. He drives it straight through the heart of the Elflord.
A spurt of blood burst from the Elflord's lips. Amid the harrowing pain of betrayal, he looksat his nephew with a warm smile—followed by a single tear born of heartbreak. Then he falls to the floor, his final breath lost to despair.
Duke Balin stares at his palms, stepping back twice from King Thai's lifeless body. A sharp, searing ache tore through his head, forcing him to clutch it tightly.
A sound stirred behind him. He glances quickly, eyes darting across the dim night, before catching sight of the Mysterious Elf watching from afar.
Hans: Who's it?
The Mysterious Elf rises softly. After three deliberate steps across the rope stretched between poles, the figure vanishes—face still concealed.
---
The death of King Thai, one of the most responsible Elven-Kings, spread through Elfland like wildfire consuming dry brush. Everywhere, elves mourned with deep grief. The very air of Elfland hung heavy, as though Mother Nature herself bowed under sorrow.
The grief of the Ælfen-Majesty and the Imperial Princes are no less than the people's. Don't mistake it—though Alf is pained, not a single tear has escaped his eyes.
---
Days after the funeral
The Eldest Imperial Prince seated in his bedchamber, is lost in memories of his father.
A moment from when he was sixteen replays in his mind. 🎞️🎥
Late Elflord: (Arm across Alf's shoulders) ...Son, I want you always to remember my words. I will not live forever, unlike you—a Dragon Successor. Someday, when I die, you will ascend the throne to guide this realm on the right path. I have confidence in you.
16-Year-Old Alf: And I myself will not live forever, becau—
Late Elflord: Furthermore, never forget—the wisdom of our ancestors, and mine—will always flow. From here, to here.
(He touched Alf's chest, then his forehead with a finger.)
16-Year-Old Alf: I know, Father, but—
11-Year-Old Ernest: (Boldly, with a sabre) Don't worry, Elder Brother. I'll train hard to protect you.
Late Elflord: See? Even my little boy will stand by you.
Young Alf smiled at his brother. The memory fades with the last words echoing in his mind:
16-Year-Old Alf: I hear you, Father. I just hope you'll bid me farewell before you depart.
Late Elflord: (Embracing them) ☺️ No worries, my sons. I will...
The flashback ends. Alf closeshis eyes.
Alf: 😔 You didn't keep your word, Father.
---
A knock sounds at the door.
Duke Balin: Alf, may we enter?
Alf: No. Please do—
Elva: (Bursting in) Do you really think I will listen to you?
Duke Balin follows inside with Princess Raina.
Duke Balin: Lady Elva, Alf just said—
Ignoring him entirely, Elva strides over, drapes an arm across Alf's shoulders, and leans close to him.
Elva: Hey, pretty boy, what's wrong?
Duke Balin: (Closing the door with resignation) Ah, whatever.
Elva: So pretty boy can be sad and quiet, huh? Who knew?
Duke Balin: Uhm, Lady Elva?
Prince Alf turns serenely, their noses only four centimeters apart.
Alf: Sometimes you're too daft to know when to keep shut.
Cunning Elvÿndia lets her gaze flick from his lips to his eyes.
Elva: (Pulling back with a huff) Hss—oof. Nice one, Your Highness.
Princess Raina: Do not mind her, Your Highness. I know what it's like to lose the male support in one's life. Those who know nothing of it deserve no hearing.
Duke Balin: 😐 Raina...?
Elva scoffs and folds her arms.
Elva: "Those who know nothing of it"? I've lost four dear kins—two of them gone forever.
Princess Raina: 😒
Elva: And you say I don't know what it feels like? (Snorts) How piteous.
Duke Balin: 🙁 Lady Elvÿ...
The door slams shut as the red-haired elf storms out.
Duke Balin: (Exhales)
To comfort the Crown Prince, Princess Raina gently places her hands on his shoulders, letting him rest his head against her abdomen.
---
Some time later,
Faint weeping echoed in the palace corridor.
Prince Ernest is seated with his face buried in his trembling knees. Alf quietly joins him, sitting by his side.
Alf: Ernest, are you all right?
At his brother's warm voice, Ernest quickly lifts his head and wipes away his tears.
Ernest: Yea, Elder Brother. All is fine.
Alf studies him carefully.
Alf: You sure?
Ernest: 😐
Alf: Little hina...?
Ernest: (Throwing his arms around Alf) 😭 I'm not! I'm not strong at all, Elder Brother...
NOTE: Hina means Child.
---