The Midnight Ball

9

Note: Freja
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Navid and Ismie became the closest of friends

Anushka was not happy. She felt her brother should be more proper, and more, she feared for him, if Ismie was the one picked at the end, and disappeared

She didn't want him to be heartbroken

She wanted him careful, like princes Keijirou and Nyong'o, who showed the least preference for any girl. No one had a suspicion they even intended to marry any of the available princesses after all this was over

Already others were whispering about him and Ismie

To the degree that Ismie herself brought the subject up

Ismie was never good at being subtle, she was a bit too blunt..

Ismie: You know, my friend. Maybe you should try spending a bit less time with me, and more getting to know some of the other princesses

He looked hurt

Ismie grimaced: I didn't mean it like that.. What I mean is, the princesses are starting to think you're courting me

Navid: Is it so bad if they think so?

Ismie sighed: I don't really care if they do, but you should. You know Princess Ramonda might even be led to that conclusion. We are a good deal of time together

He was silent

Ismie smiled at him, mischievously: I see how you look at her

He blushed hard

She laughed: If you even want a small chance at her reciprocating your feelings, you should really try. She's a strong independent woman, she wouldn't give you the time of day if you just stay away and make moon eyes at her when no one's looking

Navid: I do not!

She arched her brow at him

He sighed and smiled ruefully: I'm just.. Trying to be reasonable like the rest of them and wait till all of this is over

She sobered: Yes.. It wouldn't be good if the one you intend to marry ends up the one taken by whatever force is driving all this..

They were grave..

She continued after a brief pause: It still wouldn't be too prudent of you to give me so much favour then appear to change your mind. They'll think you fickle

He muttered under her breath

She looked at him: What is it?

He looked reluctant..

Ismie: You can tell me

He replied: It's worth being thought of that way if it would keep unwanted attention off you

She gave him a puzzled look

Navid: Prince Ferdinand..

Ismie: Oh..

Navid: I don't trust him.. I've heard rumors of him being a heart breaker..

He continued: But.. If you really like him I'll give him more room to court you. Just, please be careful

Ismie smiled at him warmly and squeezed his hand: You don't have to worry about me. I do not like him that way..

He gave her a rueful smile: Is it his sister

She gave him the same smile: No, that's not just the only reason. I do not know why, but there's a feeling deep in me, that tells me he is not right. I cannot trust him nor his attentions, and while I really appreciate your protectiveness my friend, squeezing his hand again, I don't want you losing the girl over it. Someone might make their move before you and she might accept

Navid: Oh.. Has she made any preference known?

She smiled: No, it's not that. It is just that any alliance with her kingdom is desirable. They are strong, so she must be saught after, and I think His highness Prince Keijirou might proceed to win her hand

Navid: Kei? As far as I can tell he has no preference for any one of you, and I can't imagine him wooing anyone

Ismie: Perhaps so, but it is the most beneficial strategic alliance for him, don't you think? That, or him marrying Anastasia.. After all, her kingdom is large and strong

He winced..