The night of Tigra’s birthday ball came faster than I could have thought. Dressed in my black attire I was headed to the grand hall, the last time I set foot in this room for something similar was my sixth birthday party, now it I would be celebrating Tigra’s 16th.

I followed a large group of Animalia, all were relations to the royal family or nobleman from the tribes around Panthera, those who had yet to cut ties with Cathopia.

I entered the room, hearing a more refined tune then what I was used to. The sound travelled elegantly on the warm air of the room; some Animalia were already dancing.

I instantly knew where Tigra was as she was sat at the far end, on a grand chair, she looked like royalty sat there. I know she was a princess, but I never treated her like royalty.

I saw all the Animalia dressed in fancy clothing, from dresses decorated with fine crystals to suits.

I had missed the start of the party where they would have announced Tigra’s entrance, making a huge deal out of her. I was certain she hated all this attention, but she had wanted to invite me.

I took a breath remembering what mum had told me. To stride over to Tigra with confidence, bowing before holding out my hand.

I walked through the crowd, straight over to Tigra. She looked bored out of her mind. Her dress was stunning, glittering in pale blues with a pink cape.

She gave me a weird look, obviously the gem was working and my begging for Larana not to tear up my sleeve had been successful.

I bowed, holding out my hand. “Care for a dance your highness.”

Tigra continued to gaze at me as if she’d been asked this question a hundred times already. She was about to look away when she stared at my mask, most probably noticing the gemstone she had given me imbedded in my mask.

“Sure.” She stood up, taking hold of my hand. I gently pulled away as King Alton and Queen Daz looked at me. I also spied a jealous Dumah. I smirked in his direction as I led Tigra to the middle of the dance floor, surrounded by so many Animalia.

I took up my position, my hand at her back, and holding her hand, then joined in with the rhythm of everyone else.

“You made it,” she smiled.

“I wouldn’t miss your birthday for the world,” I smiled back, trying to keep myself calm as my heart continued to pound uncontrollably in my chest. I had never held Tigra like this before.

“You’re actually pretty good,” commented Tigra.

“I practiced just for you,” I responded as I swung her around.

“I’m impressed,” she admitted. “To be honest I was getting bored, and weirdos keep asking me to dance.”

“I’m not surprised, a lot of Animalia here you don’t know,” I said.

“Unfortunately, as the next in line I will have to get to know them.” Tigra sighed. “Wish I didn’t.”

“I think you’ll make an amazing queen.” I blushed a little as I said those words.

“I doubt that,” she responded honestly. The next song was played, a more up-beat one. I switched styles quickly, keeping up with the more seasoned dancers. “Not bad.”

“Thanks.”

“There really isn’t anything you can’t do,” commented Tigra.

“I always do my best.” My smile grew.

Tigra and I danced for a long time. I caught glimpses of Dumah’s angry expression, it made me feel quite pleased with myself, he would never touch her, I would make sure of that.

After the next song ended. I dragged Tigra to some seats on the opposite side of the room as Dumah, didn’t need him butting in.

“That was fun.” We both laughed, panting a little. “I am really impressed with your dancing skills. I was worried you’d step all over my feet.”

“I would do nothing to harm you, even doing something like this,” I commented. Everyone who passed, bowed to Tigra, telling her happy birthday.

“I’m sick of all this attention, but having you here makes it worth it,” said Tigra.

“Almost forgot.” I lied nervously. I reached into my pocket. “I got you a present.” I stood up gulping, not quite believing I was giving a betrothal gift to her.

“Really, what is it?” Tigra was suddenly excited.

“Close your eyes.” I instructed, she did as I asked her. ‘You can do this.’ I egged myself on as I slowly reached around Tigra’s neck, putting the pendent on.

I felt my breath catch in my throat and my heart felt like it was about to burst. I fumbled with the clasp before getting it right. I quickly took a step back before I got the urge to kiss her. “Y…” I almost couldn’t get the words out. “You can open your eyes now.”

She did, looking down at the pendent, I had given her. “Isn’t this your clan’s symbol?”

I nodded. “It means I will protect you with my life no matter what, it is a sign of my will of protection.” I stood proudly.

“Thank you,” she smiled. “I love it.” I thought she might go shy, bashful or even blush, but she continued to gaze at me like her best friend, perhaps that was all we would ever be, but none of that mattered as long as I could protect her, walk beside and give her my strength when she needed it most.

“Shall we continue dancing?” I asked.

“I’d love too.” She came in closer, then closer to whisper in my ear. “I have a present for you too. I heard you’ll be put in charge of your own team.”

“Seriously.” I was surprised as she pulled away, she nodded. “I thought…”

“Dad had the last word,” smiled Tigra. “He told them someone with your capabilities, master of four talismans should be a leader of a specialist team.”

“Awesome.” I was so excited I took hold of Tigra’s hands and swung her around. “This will prove I am more than capable of becoming your Guardian.”

“It will,” responded Tigra. “I hear you’ll only be taking orders from mum, so not much will change in that regard.”

“Perfect,” I nodded, acknowledging the information. At least I wouldn’t be receiving any information or tasks from that snake of a Leo Dumah. “Thanks for telling me.”

“I thought you’d love to know, Captain Fang,” grinned Tigra, so happy she gave me the news.

I felt so happy, this was the second-best thing that had happened to me today, first getting to dance with Tigra and now being put in charge of my own team even better, things certainly seemed to be going my way lately.