\\ NIGHT\\ Fantasy AU \ ATEEZ Fanfic

// Chapter 37 \\

Guests were already piled into the golden ballroom as we approached the expansive place. The pink and orange light of the dawn sky, peered in illuminating the already bright room with its colorful selection of guests. Guests from every color of every Court: Southern, Northern, Eastern, Wester, Day, Night, Dusk, Dawn, and Spring. All of these guests were standing in the same ball room that was attacked by Takers weeks ago. They didn't know that the Takers might possibly attack, except for a few nervous faces here and there as they knew what happened not too long ago. Court palaces were known for being safe places among Courts, however, which was probably why many saw no worry in appearing. My stomach churned, knowing we were possibly putting them in harm's way.

Yunho stood by my side as we entered the ballroom, the voices of people mingling and the sound of music in the distance surrounding us. I looked to him to find him a bit rigid, as he too was nervous. I tried giving a bit of an encouraging smile with the nod of my head which he simply nodded back, relaxing ever so slightly. That's when I was yanked by my arm and bent over.

I gasped, my eyes widening. I began wondering what had happened only to come face to face with a wise old one I hadn't seen in what seemed like ages.

"Young lady," Nanny spoke in an annoyed tone, "Are you going to explain to me why I never got one response to one of my letters I sent you only to receive one telling me I'm invited to another one of these balls?"

I sheepishly grinned into Nanny's narrowed eyes as I cleared my throat, "I'm sorry, Nanny. I was busy fulfilling my duties here in the Dawn Court," I lowered my voice to a whisper as I finished with, "People are watching, Nanny. We're at a ball."

And just like that, my arm was freed as Nanny folded her arms. The chastising look she gave me never left her face, however.

I gave a small smile, the nervousness never left it before I sighed, giving Nanny a serious look, "Nanny, I really am sorry."

Her displeased look remained for a moment longer before she sighed and gave a smile while shaking her head.

"I forgive you, my little owl," Nanny spoke in a kind and quiet voice. For the first time while she was standing there, she acknowledged Yunho's presence.

I looked in his direction to find him nodding Nanny's way before making eye-contact with me. His silver eyes held no true joy. Of course, a guard was to keep his composure, but I knew that wasn't what lingered there. What lingered there was dread. He knew the true reason why this ball and so did I.

Dread filled me immediately then. Suddenly, the frown that was on my face wasn't to sincerely apologize to Nanny. The Takers could come any moment and they would all just be standing there, waiting for them. Like bait— fresh meat on a chopping board. Then there was the brush of something frail on my hand. I look down to find Nanny's hand grasping mine.

"You're strong," Nanny spoke with a smile, "You're going to be perfect, my little owl."

I furrowed my brows, confused by Nanny's words. Could she sense my trouble? That's when I saw the glint of worry in her eyes. I smiled in return, knowing well of how she worried, "I'll be fine Nanny. Just promise me you'll be safe."