MISSING PRINCE

Three knocks and the door opened, revealing a man wearing a black suit. It was my friend, Miguel, who walked through the room. His hands were holding a bouquet of white lilies, which are my favorite since I was a kid.

"Lady, your presence is awaited" He bowed before us, handing me the flowers carefully.

"Okay," I smiled and look at the mirror for the last time, before walking out of the room, with them.

Walking past the hallways, my amusement grew wider. With the walls painted in light colors, making them easy to look at. We went directly to the main hall where high-ranking officials and different peoples who are not familiar with me is staying at.

They were all wearing fancy gowns and nice suits. In the front lies a chair made out of wood branches, that are placed altogether. Different kinds of freshly picked flowers were scattered everywhere. While green leaves were snaking on the bottom part of the chair

A red carpet was placed in the middle, creating a pathway where I will step on later. I was looking outside, through the glass walls. A server went to my side, asking me if I'm already ready to walk inside.

I agreed with their words, greeting my parents first before they got introduced to the whole people staying inside the hall.

"Queen Thaliah together with King Ismael of Astora!" the speaker announced, gathering the attention of the people.

The door opened, revealing my Mom in a Black sleeveless gown. My Dad on the other hand is wearing a black formal suit, complimenting what my Mom is currently wearing. Praises and claps were all I could hear, with every moment passing by, new people were getting introduced.

"Let us all welcome, Princess Elizabeth of Astora!" I took a deep breath before the door can even open, revealing me.

I waved my hand, left to right. Smiling sweetly, I began to take light steps, going into the middle. The sound of my shoes was the only thing you can hear. I greeted them with a hi, saying my thank you for attending the celebration.

I smiled as I saw my parents, Miguel, Roselia and Rosiana enjoying the party. Their happiness became my happiness too, that unconsciously I realized that I am enjoying the party too.

Queen Thaliah and King Ismael were sitting in my front. The guests are now eating quietly. Some of them were talking with each other, while some were quietly watching. I was sitting on the left side, eating the food quietly while observing the happenings in my surroundings.

The food does actually taste great. It was all healthy, with vegetables as the main ingredient in every dish that is being served at us.

Stuffed bell pepper, Baked zucchini, and Vegetable casserole as well as some chicken and potatoes in white sauce. We were sitting in the middle, at a long rectangular table unlike the circular ones for the guests.

The meal went on quickly, followed by a performance. I was shocked at first, it was a theatrical performance that lasted for 30 minutes. "Muerte in el Amor" a tragic comedy that we're popular amongst the different kingdoms. It was popularized 200 years ago, giving appreciation to how our greatest ancestor showed his love.

"Today, you have witnessed the birthday of my daughter, Elizabeth, Sweetheart, I know that with years of training and educating you, you would become a better queen that will rule our kingdom, in the future." She smiled and took a glance in my direction.

I smiled widely, as tears in my eyes are already forming. My heart went in awe, their words are warming my heart, making me teary-eyed.

"I and my husband will continue to guide her with this journey. Wishing that prosperity and generosity will spread all over the kingdom. Happy birthday, my dear daughter." The tears that I was trying to hold in earlier, one by one streamed down my cheeks.

I can't help but understand why my family always told me to prioritize other people first, before me. It was a piece of selfless advice, but knowing their hard work in order for the kingdom to work properly, I look upon them.

"Thank you, Mom, thank you, Dad." I smiled and hugged them tightly. Saying my appreciation for all the things they have done for me.

And as we laughed at the emotional scene that happened. The people in charge of the sounds, wearing a maroon suit played a slow song, shifting our focus.

"Mom, I'll just change my clothes." Walking closer to where my mom is standing at, I leaned over to her side, whispering the words I wanted to say since earlier.

"Sure, sweetheart. The dress was already on your bed, go change quickly, okay?"

"Yes, Mom, I understand," Kissing her cheeks, I went on to find Roselia to help me in changing clothes.

"Roselia, let's go,"

"Elizabeth, have you heard about the news?"

I was intrigued by what Roselia has said. I smirked, seems like the news was an interesting one for Roselia to know about it.

"What Is it?"

"You didn't know?" I glared and quickly shook my head in her direction. I didn't open my mouth, rather I stayed silent, waiting for her words.

"The Prince of Azuiterra went missing,"