True to her word, Commander Aeria talked to her crew, since then relations between our people have never been better. The patrols have taken to walking together along their routes, often sharing gossip of their respective kingdom.

To my irritation, my people had taken my curiosity of our neighbor's military leader as a romantic interest. They have been asking about her, but thankfully, they refused to give any information about their commander. Lately she has disappeared on what her men called some sort of meeting that everyone her rank has to attend once every five years; leaving her second in command in charge. Somehow her disappearance seemed… planned. I can't help but feel that she was running from… something. She's nothing I should be concerned with; so why do I keep thinking about her?

She's a clever one I'll give her that. The other day a couple of my men, for some reason had tailed her when she left. Somehow she knew they were there and managed to shake them. Once they realized their error they had started to freak out and when her sword pressed into one of their backs… one of them nearly wet himself. Granted they left out that last part but I could tell that was what happened. Even now, I can't help but chuckle as I picture the scene.

I really should have seen her coming she had easily defeated my advisor, Lionel, at chess. Sure it took him about an hour or so to teach her the game but as her first opponent; now that is quite an accomplishment.

Speak of the devil… as I dozed Lionel had quietly entered my workroom and sat in front of me "Wakey wake your Highness." He teased through his alligator teeth. "Dreaming of your future bride?"

"If you're inferring Commander Aeria, you are completely wrong. That woman is way too masculine for my tastes."

"Look, your Highness. We both know you need a wife and an heir as soon as possible! And here is a strong woman in front of you and you're complaining?!" Lionel said frustration filling his words.

"Well half the time I'm not sure if she is really a she, Lionel."

He hummed to himself as he watched me, "Maybe I'll take her then. I really love her intellect not to mention she's easy on the eyes. I'm surprised the Elven King hasn't-"

"Enough!" I growled at him unintentionally, blinking in surprise, "Anyways do you have a reason for this visit?"

"Well actually I do. Lady Aeria's second-in-command is permitting any goblin or elf that wishes, to join them in their, and I quote, Creation Day Festivities tomorrow night."

"What?!"

"You know the army that is living on our front porch?" Lionel teased.

"You know what I mean, what does he gain in inviting us and why would he do it. It's no secret that he doesn't like us." I asked brows furrowed in thought.

"Maybe he's trying to keep the peace?" Lionel shrugged. "Maybe you're too tense and see everything as a threat. Maybe you need to relax."

"I'm n-"

"Yes you are. Please just go and relax. Forget you're a king for a night." Lionel's smile fell and he looked me in the eyes, dead serious, but soon his usual smile returned. "If you pace anymore you'll make a rut in your work room." *Blinking* I looked around to find I had indeed been pacing without thinking about it. No wonder, it's a habit that I picked up from my mother. Apparently, my father found it adorable, so thus how I got the habit.

"So?" Lionel's voice reminded me of what he asked.

After a moment of hesitation, I agreed.

A knock at my workroom door brought us from our conversation, reminding me that I still needed to do court today. Leaving the peace of the room, I entered into and dealt with chaotic court matters. The rest of my day… night… I was busy appeasing everyone, settling arguments, finding new projects for the dwarves to work on, and taking reports from my men. By the time I went to bed, I couldn't wait for tomorrow's festivities but even then, when I drifted off I saw her face and wondered what she was doing.

The next day I decided to go wearing a simple teal t-shirt with holes cut in the back (so my wings could fit through) and jeans. Glancing into Mother's mirror, I took in the awkward man in it. Adjusting my clothes I set out.

Making it out somewhat without a scene. A small group of my men and I headed towards the sound of music playing. Looks like they started already. Entering into the truce circle we found a chain of elves dancing as a group while the other people were dancing as couples… that is until I saw her.

She was perfect.

If god's angels had created a being, it would be her. Her small delicate features were like those of an elf's but where the elves had weakness, she had strength. Her entire being screamed independence while still being fragile. She was a contradiction in herself.

My eyes couldn't help themselves as I watched her hips sway as she danced wildly with the music's rapid beating. Heat rushed to my cheeks as I watched her in that royal purple skirt emphasizing her every move. A flash of red drew my eyes away. In her skilled hands a red silk scarf danced around her as if it was her partner… I was jealous of those woven threads that caressed her.

Frozen in place, I stared as the Elven King approached her in an attempt to get her to dance with him. I cannot explain in words my satisfaction as she danced away from him, not even sparing him a glance in her blissful state.

Bracing myself, I started forward in a risky maneuver. Coming forward I caught her hands from behind pulling her into a dance and I felt no resistance. Looking over her shoulder she silently asked with her eyes what the heck I was doing. For some reason, I couldn't focus on anything but her piercing green eyes.

Sorry for the delay, things have been hectic at school. Hopefully I'll have the next chapter up soon. Did you guys enjoy Marak's pov for this chapter? Next chapter will be Commander Aeria's pov so watch for the next chapter.

Merry Christmas everyone and a happy new year if don't post the next chapter before the end of the year.