DISCLAIMER: I don't own any part of Howl's Moving Castle, as you should know by now.

CHAPTER 4: In Which Howl Is Invited to a Wedding

"What are you doing h..? What a pleasure to see you here today, Howl.", stammered Prince Justin as he tried to regain his composure. Howl bowed his head slightly saying, "Pleasure is all mine, your Highness."

"Howell Jenkins, I need your opinion on this matter.", said Madame Suliman. As their eyes met, Howl was glad his former mentor knew him better than to ask any questions. "The King has been invited to a royal wedding by the king of Strangia, as a sign of friendship. This will symbolize the seal of peace between our two nations. Their Crown Prince is to be wed in two months' time to a commoner." Howl's raised one eyebrow as he looked at Madame Suliman. "I believe their King is trying to remedy the resentment felt by the common people towards the monarchy following this terrible war.", said Madame Suliman in reply to Howl's unsaid query.

Howl had an inkling as to where this conversation was heading and was not surprised when the old lady continued, "I want you to accompany the Prince to attend the wedding. The King is far too proud to see his rival and alas, I am not young anymore, Howell, I am far too frail for this kind of travelling - with or without magic. And as the next Royal Wizard, I believe this will be a good opportunity for you to know more about diplomacy with our neighboring country." Diplomacy, right. More of know their weaknesses, Howl thought.

"That is if Wizard Howl wants to accompany me. Otherwise, I think I will be fine in the company of my men and other courtiers. I'm sure Howl will not want to spend time away from his son.", Prince Justin interjected.

"Who said he is going to be away from his son? I fully intend for him to bring his whole family with him, if he wants.", Madame Suliman replied, looking at Howl.

"But we are supposed to travel on foot, without magic.", argued Prince Justin. Looking from Howl to Madame Suliman. "Their king specifically asked for no magic to be done in his country, given the most recent things that have happened in the last war." Madame Sulliman looked meaningfully at Howl.

"I will make the arrangements for my family. Do not worry about it, Prince Justin. We will make sure to appear to travel on foot if that is what the king wishes. And I will refrain from using magic, as appropriate.", said Howl.

"That's settled then. Howl, you will come as Prince Justin's royal advisor and good friend. You will have to make sure to refrain from doing magic during your stay, lest we ignite another war.", said Madame Suliman.

Prince Justin, recognizing defeat, sighed and turned to face Howl. "Thank you, Howl. If there is any assistance you need from me or my men, let me know. We will leave in a fortnight, so we can be there in time for the month-long festivities."

Prince Justin bowed in front of Madame Suliman and kissed her hand before turning and leaving the garden. Howl slowly walked to the glass doors that overlooked the garden outside, vaguely remembering memories of being disguised as the king and flying a small aeroplane. The thought put a faint smile on the wizard's lips.

Madame Suliman's eyes followed Howl's form as he crossed the room. How he has changed, she thought.

"How is little Morgan?", asked Madame Suliman.

"He is a healthy and happy little child. He is starting to show more of himself and is very curious about the world around him.", Howl replied. "And to answer your real question, yes, he is showing signs of magic. It started a month ago. He was playing by the edge of the bed and turned too quick for me to catch him. He should have fallen, but I found him floating on his back about a foot from the floor." Howl turned to face Madame Sulliman.

"A month ago? That's quite early. But I had no doubt that he would inherit it, being that both his parents were magical.", said Madame Suliman. "Give him my love, will you? I know it's his first birthday today. Make it count, Howell. You will never get the time back, as you very well know. That is something not even magic can remedy.", said the old lady as she looked into Howl's eyes.

Howl nodded in reply and started walking to the door.

"And Howell.."

Howl stopped in his tracks and looked at his mentor. Madame Suliman paused somewhat awkwardly.

"..please don't let Justin fall in love with the Prince's fiancee. I would hate to have another pointless war."

"As you wish.", Howl uttered as he closed the door.

"And don't forget to live, Howell.", Madam Sulliman whispered to herself.