I can't sleep. I don't want to sleep. Everything aches, and I'm scared. I wander around the palace. Miayadriel is were she always is. On the bottom of the throne. She sat alone. I trudge over to her and sit next to her. I scrunch up my face as I try not to cry... big kids don't cry.

I burst into tears. Soft and empathetic hands pull me onto her lap and wrap themselves around me. Caring hands felt so welcoming. It made me feel safe.

"He hurt me." My voice is broken and hurting.

"I know." She murmurs like the ocean. "I'm so sorry."

I pull my face from her chest. It's the first time I've had a good look at her. Her bruises are in the same places as mine. On her wrists, her neck. My swollen lips match hers. It doesn't take long for me to make the connection. "He hurts you too, doesn't he." Less of a question, more of a statement.

Miayadriel is silent and still. Finally, she answers, "How do you know?"

"I'm nine, not stupid."

The elf was surprised. This small child couldn't be older than 6! But this didn't make things any better. Miayadriel finally nodded once. She held me close and stroked my hair.

The only thought that was on my mind was, "Why?"

Rocking slowly back and forth, waiting for an answer. Do I want an answer? Do I need to know?

"...Because it makes him feel strong."