Blossom in Full Bloom (Book 4: The Pink Blossom Series)

The Upcoming Grand Ball

We all sat at the big long table. I sat across from Keno. I tried to talk to Keno, but it wasn't going to happen. Before I could even say a word, the adults started talking, and it was rude to cut in. So we ended up eating in silence. My attention was pulled at the mention of my name.

"Miko, how are you enjoying Wistal?" The King asked. What does he mean by that? Does he know about me leaving the castle. It seemed clear to me, that my Father was just as surprised.

"I am not really sure." I replied.

"Oh?"

"I guess as much as I can."

"What do you like the most? It is a beautiful city, don't you agree?"

"What are implying, Lord Brother?!" Tension rose in the room. I could see whatever was going on, my Father saw right through it.

Ignoring Zen, he continued. "Not many prefer to be alone, but I hear that is the way you like it."

I stayed silent. I didn't know how to respond. He caught me square in the face. "I guess."

"You should tread more carefully dear. We wouldn't want a repeat of last time."

"How did...?"

"Just because I live here, does not make me blind to the situation in Wistal."

Rin must have told him. I can't believe I thought I could trust her. "I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to see our country."

"Yes, but you need to remember, the importance of your Title. You have a responsibility, that comes with it."

"I'm sure, she is well aware of that, Izana. Are you sure this is the most appropriate time to be dealing with this?" Rin defended.

"Perhaps not, but you need to be aware that things will be different. You will have more responsibilities. Are you sure you're ready for it?" King Izana directed back at me.

"I am."

I was really nervous. Keno was right. I thought I was going to burst at the tension. Can we leave already?

___________________________________________

I couldn't sleep at all. So I decided to go for a walk around the castle grounds. It was the very least I could do around here. I walked up to the castle walls, missing Ru Ru and Beauty. I always was accompanied by one of them. I let out a sigh, feeling even more trapped than before. I pulled out my sword and swung it around, vigorously. I swung it around and it collided with another. What? It's the Queen.

"Mind if I join you?"

"I guess. It is your castle."

"I realize, Izana can be a bit frustrating. But he means well. In his own way, he is showing he cares."

"Is that what that was?" I was not going to be fooled. He was clearly interrogating me. And she was the cause, I'll wager.

"I think that he might even be worried about you. Things are going to change, after the ball. He wants you to be prepared."

"I said I was, didn't I?"

"This isn't just about him, is it?"

I gave her a curious look.

"Is everything alright?"

"Why wouldn't it be? I am not going to be a secret anymore."

"Anything else on your mind?"

"..."

"Keeping things locked up isn't going to help you."

"If you insist. Then I want to know why you told King Izana everything. I got into a lot of trouble because of you."