The Royal Engagement

Chapter 6

Amy stood stiffly behind the doors to the ball. She nervously fidgeted with her hands and shifted from foot to foot. Madame must have noticed when she placed a hand of reassurance onto Amy's tense back.

She let out a soft smile and Amy returned it. Her attention was taken away when the doors began to open. One last breath of courage and she flashed her best smile, before entering.

"Announcing Her Royal Majesty, Princess Amelianna Elianis Laphitia of the Laphitian Kingdom."

All eyes moved to her, faltering her confidence. Letting through a non-visible gulp, she carefully and elegantly stepped down the stairs to the large ballroom. She did her best to ignore the whispers, muttering and soft chuckles that were directed towards her appearance.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, she held her head high and waited. It was basic etiquette and a sign of importance. Waiting at the bottom of the stairs. As if you were expecting or waiting for someone to approach you.

And approach, someone did. Amy forced her softest smile at the sight of Pyro and curtseyed when he bowed. His sunshine hair was professionally slicked back, with a few strands intentionally falling in front of his face. His vibrant, deep ocean blue vest, certainly complimenting his eyes with different patterns and pins adorning it. She smoothly took his hand and began to stride further into the party as everyone applauded out of respect.

Pyro discreetly leaned towards Amy face, making it seem as a romantic act. Once his face was mostly out of clear view of everyone else, it turned dark.

"That dress..." he spat. Amy frowned and looked up at him, ready to respond before his named was called. Pyro's head immediately snapped up as he smoothed back his hair with a flashy grin of his pearly whites.

A boy, slightly older than Pyro, skipped towards them with a gang of other young noble boys following. His outfit was a long dark blue coat, with gold and brown, cuffs and finishes to it. Many different foreign inventions and contraptions accessorised him. He had dirty-blonde hair that hung messily but, attractively from his head. A goofy expression adorned his face as he waved his hand energetically for attention.

Pyro's grin turned genuine has he dragged Amy towards them. They greeted each other by punching each other's shoulders in a friendly manner and chuckling. Pyro also greeted the other boys with a casual and boyish handshake, temporarily leaving Amy's side. Amy only awkwardly watched, unsure of weather to leave and socialise with other nobles or wait with Pyro.

Her thoughts were interrupted when she caught Pyro's friend staring at her with a big grin. She looked back at him and bowed, thinking it would be appropriate to introduce herself.

"H-how do you do? I'm-"

"Her Royal Majesty, Princess Amelianna Elianis Laphitia of the Laphitian Kingdom."

Amy looked at him bemused. Noticing her confusion, he chuckled and gestured to the announcer at the top of the stairs.

"They did announce it to everyone once you arrived." Amy flushed, embarrassed at her foolishness and looked towards the ground.

"O-oh right! P-pardon my forgetfulness," she stuttered, hoping to save herself. He only let out a friendly laugh and patted her head softly.

"How cute! Pyro's lucky to have an adorable fiancé like you!" he cooed as he pinched her cheeks. Amy's face reddened even more when her heart started to thump at that compliment. He peered into her face with a curious look.

"Eh? Your face looks like a tomato!" he laughed. Amy couldn't withhold the small smile that crept onto her face and pouted to try and hide it.

"Oh yeah?! Well, your face looks like a...um...a...uhhh-"