The Djinni & The Royal

❂ Weddings ❂

To say The Kings castle was full, would be the understatement of the century. Guests were so plentiful the courtyard was a patchwork of colors. Silk, gold, and gems were overflowing the yard, the richest assortment of clothes Najwa had ever seen.

The spring day was cool with a light breeze. Najwa shivered, hoping they wouldn't have to wait outside to long. The lines to enter were so ling she couldn't see the end. So she was surprised that as soon as their carriage stopped, a man opened it with instructions. "The King wishes your presence immediately Lady Djinni." He held out a hand, helping the three lady's out. The girl had a flattered blush.

The Djinni turned to Edna. "I'll be taking the girl with me. Enjoy the guests' company." She turned without waiting for the woman's answer and strode after the servant with her head high. Najwa glanced back at the frustrated woman and ran to keep up, her heart pounding in her chest. She was going to meet the King!

"Djinni!" The King cried in delight. The young woman gave a curtsy, pushing Najwa's head down with her hand. The girl curtsied as best she could, blushing madly. Her eyes widened in shock, watching the King bow in return. He wasn't supposed to do that, was he? Not to them!

"Come, come." He beaconed to a sofa overlooking the crowded courtyard. Djinni followed gracefully. "I would like to make a deal Djinni." He started nervously. A long silence followed as his back stayed turned to them, his eyes on the guests.

She sat a little straighter. Najwa's attention zeroed in on the man. "I would like you to bless my nieces marriage. Nothing extravagant, but the promise that their union will bring children. I have none of my own, now that my son is gone. Hers would be the only heir to my kingdom." He explained, his voice growing sader. They paused as a servant brought tea to them.

The servant gasped at Najwa. The child looked up and gaped at her cousin. She hadn't seen her since she left her mother, and she want sure what story hey mother gave.

Her cousins eyes narrowed. "For her as well." Djinni ordered without turning to see her hesitation. Najwa gulped at the venom she saw in her cousins eyes. She excepted the cup, her hands shaking.

"Be gone." The King growled. She hurried back to the corner, out of ear shot.

"So," The King looked back at the young woman. "How much would this blessing cost me?" He asked, his palms sweating. He had heard about the cost of a deal with the Djinni, years off your life, and he didn't have many left. The Djinni slipped her tea before setting it down on the table.

"Your Highness, I would be honored to make a deal with you, but I would rather you accept it as a gift." She said in a soft serious voice. Najwa watched the King grow pensive.

"What would be in it for you? I can assure you, I am an honest man!" He bristled. She smiled softly, placing a hand over his. The child stiffened, her breath catching in her chest. She wated for him so grow angrier, throw the hand away. He was a King, the most respected man in the country. He couldn't be touched by people like them!

"I wish to gift you, my King. That is all. You have been fair and so welcoming to my guardian and I, please accept my offer. I couldn't save your son, let me do this." She said in a silky voice. He relaxed, a sad smile replacing his frown.

"Thank you, Djinni. You are always welcome in my home." He looked back at the servant, raising his voice.

"Inform the Princess, The Djinni is coming to speak with her." He ordered. "I will acompany you to bless her. I do ask you to bless her at the ceremony for show as well." He turned to his guest, his expression one of fellow conspirators.

She nodded with a sly smile. "Of course." The two left the room, Djinni instructing Najwa to stay put.

Djinni entered the room, behind the King. Malinda looked up in surprise, which quickly turned to fear. "Djinni." She breathed. The ginger smiled her sharp toothed smile with a small curtsy.