Ember Burning

Part 11

During your flight the next morning, you went north instead of south. Although Jimin had not found additional Mor patrols, your run-in with them had increased your caution. Soaring above the tree line, the sun brightening the horizon, your heart felt heavier than it had in a while.

When you finally landed and hurried inside, you were entirely alone.

For the first time, this struck you as not a good thing.

Independence had always been one of your most prized possessions. Your crown had stripped you of so much – your youth, freedom, and the first man you'd loved. Now though, you wondered what you'd given up by clinging to your ideals so tightly.

You did not have much time to consider it. The ball for Duret Ghal was tonight, and the day after tomorrow, their delegation would leave. You would sign the treaty in the morning and then they would be off.

Jungkook's offer of marriage would disappear with it.

Amara had outdone herself with your dress for the evening. It was crimson in color, falling in gauzy pleats from a golden, metal bodice. Amara had dusted gold powder across your shoulders, resulting in a shimmering aura.

Red was neither the color of Ashya, nor of Duret Ghal. It was the color of fire, of passion – and of love, you realized with a twisting stomach.

Again, Yoongi was your escort and even his eyes widened as you stepped out the door.

"You are going to give someone a heart attack," he chuckled, extending his arm.

You merely shook your head as you walked down the hall. The crown you wore tonight was gold, as well. A relic from an ancient Queen of Ashya before the colors had changed to silver and green.

"I am sure they will be fine," you responded. "It is not as though I plan on shifting in the middle of a waltz."

"It would certainly liven things up if you did."

Although you gave Yoongi a look, you quickly fell silent as you approached the ball. Beyond the shut doors, you could hear muffled noises of music and laughter.

"Did Namjoon tell you about the dancing?"

Sharply, you turned your head. "No, he did not. What dancing?"

"Apparently, it is the custom in Duret Ghal for their monarch to lead the first dance."

"I wish His Majesty the best of luck, then."

Yoongi hid a smile. "You will need to dance also, Your Majesty."

"Why is that?"

"Perhaps you are unfamiliar with the concept of balls," Yoongi mused. "Typically, there is food, dancing, general merriment..."

"I know what a ball is, Yoongi."

"You seemed confused by the prospect of dancing, though."

"By the prospect of dancing with His Majesty, yes."

"Now I am the one who is confused, because –"

"Fine," you ground out as the doors began to open. "I will dance the first song with His Majesty. Nothing more."

Yoongi grinned, patting your arm as you entered the room.

The ballroom had been lavishly decorated for tonight's event. Taking it in, you passed over iced draperies, flowers and foliage spilling from every surface. People were gathered throughout, leaving room in the center of the ballroom for you to dance. An orchestra sat poised in the corner, awaiting your entrance to start the first song.