Influx

Chapter 2

Chapter 2

       He left me at the stairs, leading up to the thrones. I lifted my dress a little and smoothly climbed. I nodded my head as I passed my sister and smiled at my father before hugging my mother; then I turned to the party guests, who I probably only knew ten of the million there. Smile, wave, and sit down was all I needed to do like every year.

       Half-way through the party, after people had congrated me for two straight hours, the dancing begun and my sister and I sat on the edge of our thrones. “Go on,” my mother urged and we launched ourselves into the crowd.

       I danced with several nice guys; then Prince Peter of Medada strolled up and easily took the boy’s place. My parents had already arranged us to be married on my twentieth birthday, which strangely would make him twenty-two. “So my lovely princess, how are you?” he asked as we slowly made tight circles on the floor.

       “Fine,” I answered quickly, glancing around for another dance partner. Prince Peter was defiantly a nice guy; but he wasn’t my type and it wasn’t because he bore the swirls of a Messenger. We didn’t share almost anything in common. I could sit for hours reading or writing, or even practice fighting forms. He was a partier and loved getting drunk.

       “One word? Is all your sweetheart gets?” he inquired mockingly, pressing me tighter to his chest.

       “Okay. I’m very fine. Look that’s three, no four words,” I retorted, trying to push away from him.

       “Much better. May I have a kiss?” he questioned as he leaned close.

       “I think that would be hardly suitable. Saying you will mess up my make-up,” I replied crossly, stopping our rotation.

       “Really? You’re worried about make-up,” he laughed quickly, slightly letting go.

       “Excuse me, may I have a turn?” asked a friendly voice as its owner tapped Prince Peter’s shoulder.

       “Of course,” Prince Peter snapped as he bowed to me. “Till we meet again, Princess Sapphire.” He stomped off towards the wine table, while I looked at my savior.

       “I did well?” he asked as he took my hand.

       “Extremely. How can I thank you, Guard William,” I replied, smiling as we twirled slowly.

       “No thanks needed. That’s what best friends are for, correct?” Will commented as his eyes locked on mine.

       “Yes,” I muttered, allowing myself to look deeply into his brown eyes; that seemed darkened by his black hair, which was trimmed neatly as in guard protocol.

       “Shall we get some fresh air?” he inquired as he let go of my waist.

       I glanced up at the thrones, noticing my parents busy with party-guests. “Yes, let’s go,” I answered quickly, feeling him squeeze my hand.