Chapter 7: The prince's death

Three days later;

The kingdom of Devon was currently mourning the death of their prince. The news was announced two days ago. The people were shocked by the news, they all wondered how it happened, until they found out that he died on the battlefield. The head of the army declared a week of mourning for the late prince. 

None of the royal family members came out to address the kingdom. It was quite understandable. The people lit lanterns in the sky for the deceased. It was a very sad day for them. 

The person who took the news very badly was princess Ella. She had locked herself in her room since she heard the news and only came out for his funeral. She found it hard to believe. Martha got to the princess's chambers and knocked. 

"Princess Ella, can I come in?" She asked. Princess Ella hadn't eaten since yesterday morning and even her last meal was very little. She was getting really worried. She couldn't tell Queen mother Miranda because she was in the exact same state. 

King Alexander hasn't been in the castle for two days now, so she had no one to help her with Princess Ella. "Princess Ella, I have your meal here, you need to eat." Princess Ella didn't open up, nor did she say anything. With a sigh, Martha walked away from the door and was about to leave. 

"What's wrong Martha?" She heard a voice say. She turned around and immediately bowed her head, "She hasn't eaten anything since yesterday your highness. She dosen't want to let anyone in." Martha explained. 

Alexander stared at the door. "Wait here." He ordered, and he walked towards the door. "Ella can you come out, you have to eat." He said. He was really not in the mood for this. He knew his sister was hurting, but that didn't mean that she should bother other people with it. He sighed and said with a calm tone. "Ella, I know that you don't want to see anyone right now but you need to eat. At least do it for mom, she can't deal with anymore problems." He said. After thirty seconds the door opened up, she immediately launched herself into her brother's arms. She cried silently in his arms but Alexander didn't say anything, he just patted her until she calmed down. 

"I-I'm sorry."She whispered. During these three days, she felt alone. Neither her mother nor her brother were there to comfort her. Seeing Alexander brought her a little peace. 

"It's okay, I'm the one who's sorry. I should have been here for you." He said very softly. "Now, I need you to eat. I'll see you later."

She nodded and let go of Alexander. He turned and saw Martha, who was three feet away from them. He left without saying another word.  

"I'm so sorry Martha, can you forgive me?"

Martha gave her a warm smile. "You don't need to ask for forgiveness Ella. Now let's go inside." 

****In the village****

Aurora and her sister Gwen were walking on the streets. Everywhere was oddly quiet and only a few people were outside. They believed that it was all because of the prince's death. 

"Everywhere looks desserted." Gwen said. 

"Hmhm, I wonder if this is how it was when the previous king died." 

"It can't be more than this I guess. Let's get home quickly. it all feels very creepy." Gwen said  and we headed home. Gwen started to walk really fast. "Gwen wait for me." I said as I started to run to meet up with her. 'God her and her long legs.' I thought to myself.