"So you're sure she'll be there, right Aly?" said Rauol of Goldenlake and Malorie's Peak. The fifteen year old gave him an exasperated look.

"Of course, Uncle Rauol. I told her to be there and she hasn't canceled yet. She'll be there. All you have to do is remember what I told you to tell her. If you mess up or falter, I'll rush in like I was late and you can ask her later. Just remember to say what I told you to say and it'll all go fine. Stefan won't let her leave. I've already made arrangements with him." Seeing his stricken face, she sighed. "No I didn't tell him. I just asked him to keep Aunt Buri in the stables until you get there. It will be fine." A bell sounded three times in the distance. "We have to go now, or we'll be late."

They took of at a jog towards the east stables. Arriving in the stable yard, Aly winked at Rauol and darted into the shadows. He straightened his tunic and composed himself. Checking his pockets, he was relieved. He hadn't forgotten it, thank Mithros.

He pretended to be interested in the horses, but was really watching for Buri. Then he heard her distinctive footsteps and turned. She was examining the walls as she walked and didn't see him immediately.

"Hey Rauol. What are you doing here?" she said in surprise when she saw the Giantkiller's large form.

"Trying to hide from Jon. I was supposed to be at a meeting today. Itr wasn't a War Council, so I didn't show up. How 'bout you?"

"Oh, Aly and I are riding today. Have you seen her?"

"Yeah," he said, wincing. "Alanna was yelling at her for something. She might be a bit late."

"Probably. Anyway, it's nice to see you. We only really see each other at night, and we're too tired to talk then."

"Yeah, Listen, Buri. I have to…say something. You're an amazing woman and you make me laugh and I'm the happiest I've ever been around you and I love you, but…" Buri looked apprehensive and worried, though she tried to hide it. "We both know war with Scanra is inevitable and I figured-and other people agree with me-that I ought to do this before anything happens to either of us." He dropped down on one knee in the classic proposal position and pulled out the ring in one smooth motion. "Buri, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"

She looked overwhelmed and shocked for a minute, then pulled him up, accepted the ring, and yanked him into a deep kiss. They heard whistling from the hostlers and Aly's laugh. Then a very unwelcome voice sounded to their right.

"Rauol? Buri? What's going in here?" They pulled apart to see Alanna, George, Jon, and Thayet. Aly laughed and shrugged guiltly.

"Thought it'd be easier to explain this way."