Kaeàna followed the royal family, Legolas and Thranduil, into Mirkwood. The reached the city gate, as it parted a gasp left her mouth.
Her eyes stared at the trees, the structures, the building, and the people. Her mount walked forwards, she closed her mouth after she had realised it had been sitting open.
Ka was in absolute awe. This city was amazing, and she had been guarding its Prince the entire time.
Her stomach began to lurch as they approached the palace. She swallowed.
She was told to dismount and a young elf who she guessed to be the stable boy gathered the reins of her horse.
She got down and awaited her orders.
Thranduil stared at her, he appeared to be sizing her up, seeing if she really was capable for the job.
Ka was nervous but it was no more intimidating than her normal jobs. She wasn't nervous because of the king. No, she was nervous because of the life and well-being of a child was being placed in her hands.
The king gestured for her to follow. She quickly fell into step behind him. Her braid swayed brushing her hips as she walked, the silence of their walk burned in her ears.
Finally the king slowed, and spoke.
"Tell me Ka, what is your full name?"
She gulped. "Kaeàna Arradwen."
Lord Thranduil sighed.
"That's unlike any family name I have heard... a maiden without a path."
She spoke softly "In truth sire, I did not inherent a name."
Thranduil arched a dark brow. "And why is that?"
"I was not raised by a mother and father you see, my caretaker was an older male human. He had little faith in me, but he believed I had the spirit of a Dragon but the means of a wanderer. "
"Do you believe this to be true?"
"I do, sire. The name has proved itself to be correct."
He simply nodded as they continued there walk further from the castle.
"Why did you save Legolas? Why did you not turn a blind eye as so many did?" He asked suddenly.
"Well... I couldn't simply do nothing. He is an innocent child, that was an awful man. What more is there to say?"
Thranduil stopped and turned to face Ka.
"I do like you. I trust you. You saved my son. Without knowing his lineage, without a reward. For that I am grateful. I do hope you will stay and become part of this kingdom, Kaeàna Arradwen."