Life Changes

by lullebell

Don't read if you like Daine and Numair being together! Part Two up now!

1. Part One

"Hi all! I wrote this fanfic after reading the Immortals Quartet by Tamora Pierce. I loved the quartet-BUT after I read it I was left with a burning desire to separate Daine and Numair!! It was just wrong! He is too old for her and it is icky! So the sole purpose of this fanfic is to ruin Daine and Numair's relationship. I also have made Numair up as the creep he is! I know a lot of people will complain but tough. So here's my fanfic, I hope you like it. The characters are Tamora's, but some new ones I made up. Just so you know, I don't make money or anything from this so don't sue me! Hope you enjoy and I LOVE feedback! *Hint hint nudge nudge! *"

Life Changes

Chapter 1

Daine jerked up right, her breath coming out in short ragged gasps. She rubbed her eyes and looked around in the darkness of her familiar bedroom in the Tortall castle. It was just a dream she thought, but a reoccurring one. It had come four nights in a row, yet this time it seemed more extreme, more urgent.

"That's because it is urgent silly kit." Said a voice near the foot of her bed. Daine looked around in the dark startled and was overcome by a strong musky scent, which she recognized and then smiled.

"Hello Badger," Daine said quietly, so not to wake Kitten, who was curled up next to her.

"So you're the one who can explain my dream?" she asked. He snorted.

"It is never as easy as that kit, and you know it." There was a trace of humor in his voice and he continued.

"No, I can't explain it, just warn you. But it's important and you must take notice of it. For the gods are guiding you once more." He cocked his dark, sleek, furry head and then growled. "Already I have said too much." Daine looked confusedly at him.

"From what I understand you've said hardly anything at all!" she retorted. He cuffed her gently over the head and she smiled.

"Mind you keep that necklace on. I'll need it when I need to talk to you again." He said as he nudged the silver claw fastened around Daine's neck with his nose. She nodded and he disappeared in a flash of silver light. Daine sighed. It had been a while since she'd heard from the Badger. Two years after the Immortals War as it was named and 3 years after the mass destruction she created in Carthak. Carthak had just gotten up on its feet again with a new law and freedom similar of that of Tortall. But to be guided by the Gods again? Daine shuddered to think what might happen this time. She climbed out of the bed slowly and carefully, so not to wake Kitten who surprisingly, stayed fast asleep during the Badger's visit. Unnerved by the dream, Daine stepped into the slippers by her bed and put on an over-gown to cover her nightclothes. Quietly she opened the door, padded down the hallways past many doors and stopped in front of one, which she opened and then slipped into the room. She walked over to the bed and looked at the sleeping figure there. Tall, his feet stuck out of the bed sheets, he had shoulder length black hair that was loose in his sleep and mussed up. His full mouth was slightly parted as he slept, his black eyelashes were extremely long, and though he had a crooked nose, he was still handsome. Daine bent down and kissed him gently and as she stood upright, Numair's eyes opened. She smiled coyly and sat on the edge of the bed. Numair sat up and wrapped his arms around her.

"Bad dreams again?" he asked gently. Daine nodded. He sighed and rubbed his eyes.

" I know it means something Numair, I just don't know what. But- I think it's bad." Numair flopped back and lay down. Daine turned to face him.

"Sweetling-" he began and then stopped, his eyes meeting hers. He pulled her towards him and kissed her. She responded quickly. Daine felt his hands roaming her body and her clothes were beginning to move away in the wrong places. Daine drew back but Numair pulled her close again, kissing her face. She lay limply in his arms until he tried to-

" Numair stop." She said hurriedly and got off the bed, trying to pull back on her disheveled clothes that he'd tried to get off. Numair propped himself up on his elbows lying on his side, watching her every movement intently and she glanced up at him. The hungry look in his eyes said it all.

"No Numair. I'm not ready yet." She said.

"Sweetling," he began. Daine still shook her head. Numair sighed and looked at her disappointedly. He then flopped back down on the bed.

"Don't worry magelet, I'm sure it was nothing." He lay back down and settled his blankets around him comfortably and rolled to his side, his back to her. She stared at his back angrily, though she wasn't sure why and then left.

Should I sleep with him? It's like his angry or annoyed that I won't! It's not that big a thing-is it? Daine thought troubled as she walked down the corridor. Numair's different from other men. He loves me, and that's special, it makes it different. Doesn't it? Does he really love me or does he just want sex? Still immersed in her own thoughts didn't notice where she was going until she bumped into the brick wall. Brick wall with breasts, thought Daine from the ground.

"Hi Alanna." She said, without glancing up. Alanna pulled her to her feet.

"Hello Daine." replied Alanna evenly. She glanced at the direction Daine had come from and her gaze returned back to Daine.

"Enjoy your evening stroll?" she inquired, eyeing Daine's disheveled hair and clothes with a raised eyebrow. Daine blushed.

"It's not what you think, honest." Daine said hurriedly, blushing even more deeply.

"Mmhmmm," was all that came from Alanna, soundly completely insincere. Daine laughed.

"Alanna, you're so protective of me! I'm fine, Numair loves me." Daine emphasized the love so vehemently Alanna looked at her sharply. Seeing Daine's eager and innocent face, Alanna sighed affectionately, her face relaxing to a look of affectionate exasperation. As well as Alanna knew and liked Numair; she didn't approve one bit of their little romance.

" Daine as much as you think you love him, make sure you know what you're doing."

Daine sank down against the wall to the floor. Alanna plonked down next to her.

"Why are you so protective of me Alanna? Why? Numair's your friend, isn't he?"

"He is. But Daine, you're so young, so innocent. I don't want you to throw all that away, your life or career ahead of you until you're sure. I wanted to be a knight; I knew what I wanted. You don't. Don't do what I did."

Daine looked at Alanna curiously.

"Weren't you sure about Jonathan?" she asked timidly.

"Not getting too personal here are you Daine!" Said Alanna laughing. "I thought I loved Jonathan at first, but soon I knew we weren't meant to be like that. We were very close friends and it led to something that it shouldn't have."

"What made you realize that you weren't meant to be?"

"Many things. George, finding Thayet, meeting other people and seeing our lives were leading down too different paths. Connected sure, but different. I think I knew deep down before those things though, that it wasn't right. Jonathan and I are very close friends, comrades and close souls but not kindred spirits. I'm his friend, his Champion but not his lover." Alanna looked so tired and wise that Daine impulsively hugged her. Surprised, Alanna hugged her back.

"Did you ever regret not marrying Jonathan?" asked Daine gently.

"Good Mithros no!" said Alanna giggling. "Can you imagine the fights? And how much of a headache I'd get listening to him brag?!" They both collapsed into giggles and when they subsided, fell into companionable silence.

"I just want you to make sure you're right and comfortable, Daine." Said Alanna at last.

"He hasn't yet."

"What?"

"You know, bedded me. He wants to, I can see that but I keep saying no. He's brought it up a lot and-"

"Don't let yourself be pushed or forced into doing something you don't want to do. Or think." Alanna interrupted. Daine gratefully rested her head on Alanna's shoulder. They sat for a while longer, until Alanna said, "Now, go to bed. It's very late, or early I should say." Smiling, Daine and Alanna got up and Alanna walked with her back to her room.

"Thanks Alanna." Said Daine and went into her room, closing the door silently. Sighing, with a thoughtful look on her face, Alanna went back to her room.

Inside Daine's room, Kitten trilled and muttered in annoyance that Daine had been gone for so long.

"Sorry Kit," Said Daine ruefully, and climbed into bed. Kitten still muttering, cuddled down next to her. They were both getting a bit big for the bed, thought Daine, but right then, she was glad for her warmth. Daine sighed happily. At home finally, and with the people she loved and who cared about her.

* * * * * * *

"WHAT!?" Daine screeched. "Return to Carthak!!?WHY!??"

Chapter 2

"WHAT!?" Daine screeched. "Return to Carthak!!?WHY!??" King Jonathan sighed.

" I knew you'd be like this. That's why we're all in here. It's required that you are to return to Carthak. You've been asked by Prince, no, Emperor Kaddar to discuss some issues that need attention over there. Tortall wants you and Numair to represent us, though he did specifically ask for you two." Daine just stared at him in disbelief.

"And what if I don't want to go?" she said angrily. Numair moved behind her and massaged her shoulders.

"Magelet I think you should calm down." He said soothingly. She wrenched herself away from him.

"No, I don't want to calm down," she said through clenched teeth. Alanna, who was leaning against a wall, hid her smile behind her hand.

"Listen Daine, it's like this." Put in Queen Thayet from Jonathan's right. "Carthak is getting back up on its feet again. You're friends with Emperor Kaddar. It's going to be more social than work, and it will be good to see him again won't it?" Seeing Daine's face relax slightly, Thayet continued. " You deserve some rest, after how much you've helped after the Immortals War. I'm sure Carthak would appreciate that help at their new mages university. They want you two to open the new one since the other ended up being destroyed by your 'guided by the gods' incident. Would you please consider going?" Daine fell silent, and Thayet sat up properly, a look of smug satisfaction on her face, while Jonathan looked at her in disbelief.

"Alright." Said Daine at last. "I just-never mind." Numair looked at her carefully and she smiled at him. "Come on. Looks like we're going on a trip." She said to him. He smiled enticing.

" A romantic rendezvous for two?" he said batting his eyelids.

"Not quite" said a new voice from the back of the room. They both turned to find Lindhall Reed, Numair's former teacher, a mage from Carthak who had returned with them after their last visit to Carthak.

"Sorry to break your little love bubble," he continued, his eyes shining with suppressed laughter, "but I'm coming along with you. It will be good to see family and friends again, especially Kaddar."

Numair's sigh was exaggerated, as if he was disappointed while Daine blushed heavily.

"After hearing this I think I should go along with you all." Alanna said, moving away from the wall to the table they were all surrounding. She caught Daine's eye and then looked at Numair, as if daring him to disagree.

"No, Alanna that won't be necessary." spoke Jonathan. "I may need you here with training and meetings and so forth."

Alanna nodded impassively.

" If you can begin to pack, I'm sure you will be able to leave on the next boat to Carthak." interrupted Thayet, ending the discussion. The four all bowed respectfully and turned to leave.

Daine walked into her room and pulled out a carry trunk and began putting her clothes into it. Kitten, who was sitting a top of her dresser chirped curiously at her.

"I'm going back to Carthak Kit." Kitten trilled indignantly and began muttering and chirping.

"I know! I didn't want to go either but I have to. You don't have to come-" Kitten interrupted her with a series of scornful trills. Daine smiled.

"Well, I'm glad you want to come. It's just about their mage university and-" a knock at the door stopped Daine in mid sentence.

"Who is it?" she called still looking in drawers.

"It's me, Alanna." Came back the muffled response. Kitten leapt eagerly off the dresser and opened the door with a trill. Alanna peeked in and Kitten looked up at her happily. "Hi, Kitten" she said as she shut the door and then rubbed Kitten's head. Kitten cooed in pleasure and then hopped back up on the dresser. Daine, still packing now at her closet pulled out two dresses.

"The blue silk or cream velveteen?" she asked.

"Blue." Alanna confirmed. "And bring the violet and the silver one as well." Daine nodded and packed them into the carry case as well.

"Listen, Daine." Began Alanna. Daine stopped, startled by the seriousness of her voice.

"What?" she asked, alarmed. Alanna let out the breath she didn't know she had been holding and changed her mind.

"Nothing. Just look after yourself, okay? Send me a message when you're there, alright?" Daine nodded numbly, her curiosity awakened. Alanna clapped her on the shoulder and left. What was that about? She thought. Daine shrugged it off and went down to say goodbye to Cloud.

* * * * * * * *

Chapter 3

"Eeegh, oogh - HURGH!!" Daine patted Numair on the back while he spewed up over the edge of the boat. She sighed. They'd left Port Legann about an hour ago and Numair had spewed twice already. When he'd stopped coughing, Daine pulled him up and turned him around to look at her. He was a fresh, sickly green and Daine's heart tugged for him.

"Go into your cabin and lie down alright? There's some medicine in there I got for you before we left." Numair smiled gratefully then clutched his stomach as the boat lurched. He trudged off and Daine stayed out in the breeze. Kitten came and joined her, muttering to herself and looking at the water. It was so nice, being so close to the sea. She marveled how big it was until she heard something. It was hauntingly beautiful, like the ocean itself calling her. A picture flashed in her mind and she smiled, remembering that they'd met before. Opening her mind, she answered the call of a large whale a few hundred widths away.

–We meet again water brother- she said.

The whale responded

-And to you water sister. I have heard news that one of the water kinds has changed. It comes after two leggers. Even too dangerous for us to handle. Normally we are indifferent to human affairs, but this is deformed. It is coming-.

Puzzled Daine momentarily lost concentration and then called back.

-What kind of creature? And why? -. She could feel the whale moving further and further away and soon out of her range. Daine sighed then jerked as drops of rain fell down on her. She glanced up and saw the ominous clouds above her moving. They were right in the middle of a storm. And not a natural one at that. Daine could see small glimpses of the Gift in it, a ruby red color against the dark gray. Daine turned to go inside and then the heavens opened, pouring down on the deck. She ran inside against the winds that were growing stronger by the moment. Numair! She thought and began to run down to his room. He was lying on the bed there moaning when she arrived.

"Are you okay?" she asked worriedly, kneeling next to him.

"What's happening?" he croaked.

"There's a storm. It's not natural and a pretty bad one by the looks of it. A-" she almost told him about what the whale had said and thought better of it. Shouldn't worry him now. Lindhall burst into the room puffing.

"Captain said all mages and people who can shoot to come up on deck. There's something up ahead that is probably causing the storm." Daine's stomach lurched with the ship, but had no time to think as she grabbed her bow and she and Numair were bustled up to the deck. Up there, they put on protective coats from the rain and braced themselves from the wind. The rain was in sheets and huge gusts of wind blew the ship onto its side, almost capsizing it. Daine, Numair, Lindhall ran up to the captain, with Kitten running beside them.

"I've never seen anything like it!" Yelled the captain over the wind. " It's some huge magical creature. It was spotted with the looking glasses!"

"Have you tried to change course?" yelled Lindhall.

"Yes! But it keeps following us!" replied the Captain. Daine grew impatient with their discussion and walked off to where a line of archers was gathering at the front of the boat, bows strung and ready. She moved to join them and then glimpsed what it was. It was fairly large. The size of a medium-small whale Daine decided but still powerful enough to do some serious damage. It had many tentacles coming off it's round body, like an octopus but were covered with sharp, serrated spikes that were tipped a brilliant orange with deep red roots, the same red as that of the flashes she had glimpsed in the sky. The spikes were probably poisonous and looked extremely wicked. It was heading straight for the ship. A burly man called out a command and the archers fired. Only a couple hit the creature, but they were like pinpricks. Numair ran up next to her.

"Good Mithros, Minoss and Shakith!" He cried in shock. He lifted his hands to blast the creature but it disappeared into the water. Using her mind Daine searched for the creature. She found it at the front and to the left of the boat. Calling to it she opened her mind and tried to recoil when she felt it turn it's attention to her. It swamped her mind with black, evil and murky. Daine screamed, and struggled to break away but couldn't. She felt herself being pulled towards its mind, trapped until a sharp pain spread up her leg. Her contact was broken immediately and she found an angry Kitten screeching at her. A line of blood flowed down her leg where the immortal had bit it and though it hurt, she gratefully hugged Kitten. Noticing Daine was shaking Numair asked what was wrong.

"It was evil," she said, her teeth chattering " I tried to speak to it and it swamped me with black and it held me until Kit..." she trailed off, exhausted from her efforts of struggling against the monster.

"It was so strong." She whispered, and Numair hugged her hard until the monster burst from the ocean. The line of archers broke in panic and the thing waved its tentacles. One hit one of the masts and sent it flying in splinters. Numair released Daine and stepped forward. He put his arms out and said something. A powerful explosion hit the creature on one of it's tentacles, sending slimy goop flying and leaving black blood oozing everywhere. There were large clouds of smoke everywhere and many people were yelling. The thing screamed in fury and slashed out with it's remaining tentacles, sending splinters of wood flying. It smashed the other mast and Numair kept blasting at it. It turned, underbody facing the boat where Daine could see a large mouth full of curved serrated teeth heading straight for the boat. Numair kept blasting until one hit home on the monster's body. The power of its splashes in the water made the boat lurch violently, sending people flying into the ocean. With one last scream, it dived away and disappeared into the murky depths. The storm subsided and the waters became calm again. A few men had fallen overboard and there were some casualties from bits of flying wood and spikes but apart from that everyone was all right. Daine looked around anxiously for Numair. He had disappeared in the smoke caused from the explosions and she couldn't see him.

"Numair?!" she called tentively. "Numair!?" Daine began to feel scared. What if it had gotten him in the smoke? Or he'd fallen over board? Or exerted his gift too much and tapped into his life energy? She ran to the edge of the boat and saw that he had fallen overboard.

"NUMAIR!!!" she screamed frantically, shaking with fright. She dived into the water after him, changing into a sea lion she'd met once. Her body became covered in blubber and fur that repelled the water. Her ears flattened and her face bulged out into a muzzle of some sort, whiskers protruding off her cheeks. He was beginning to slip under and she dived down to retrieve him. She caught his collar and began pulling him to the surface. Daine change her face to human and yelled as loud as she could. Lindhall heard her calls and brought the captain over who tossed her a rope and she and Numair were pulled up. Lindhall wrapped her in a blanket to cover her nakedness that came whenever she changed and Numair coughed up mountains of saltwater. Daine held him close to her breast, shaking that she might have lost him.

"You called, sweetling?" He croaked and she sort of laugh-sobbed at that. Daine hugged him harder and kissed his forehead. They held onto each other for a long time, tears of relief streaming down Daine's face. Her heart filled with love, that he was all right and she hadn't lost him.

"Don't you ever do that to me again, understand?" she said shakily. He nodded and smiled.

"I do like this though." He said. Somehow he'd managed to get wrapped up inside the blanket with her.

"Is that all you think about?" she asked happily, at that moment not really caring. He nodded cheekily.

"Near death experiences do that to you." He said, breaking the hug and kissing her gently. She tightened the blanket around herself and Numair tied two ends up behind her neck to form a sarong of sorts. He turned to go inside the cabin until Daine stopped him.

"Wait. We're not going to get anywhere without a mast Numair. I need to speak to the Captain."

Numair shook his head.

"You're soaking wet and probably exhausted. Can't you think of yourself for once Daine, instead of the other people?"

She looked at him in disbelief.

" I should think of myself? Numair, there are injured people on this boat! We need to get to Carthak as soon as possible! It was my fault that thing attacked us and if more people die-"

"Your fault that thing attacked?" said Numair sharply, even though he was still uneasy. Daine stopped ashamed, but then looked into Numair's eyes.

"Yes." She said stubbornly. Numair studied her.

"How." He said quietly, and Daine knew he was angry.

"A whale told me it was coming. He warned me, and I didn't do anything! I didn't tell the captain, or you or-. It was my fault those people died!" Daine cried, leaning towards hysterical as her eyes filled with tears.

"But you didn't insult the creature or tease it did you?" Numair clarified.

"No! I couldn't even talk to it, let alone reason with it!"

Numair's arms again enveloped Daine, and he held her stroking her hair.

"It wasn't your fault Daine. That thing came because it was evil and it wanted something. Nothing could have prevented it."

Daine sobbed and Numair looked her in the eyes.

"Now can you call a whale to help us get to Carthak?" he asked. Daine nodded numbly and they went to find the Captain. The Captain agreed immediately that if Daine could find help it would be very much welcome. After a few moments of searching, Daine politely asked a nearby whale to push them to Carthak. It obliged surprisingly, and soon they were heading for Carthak at full speed. Daine and Numair headed inside for drier clothes.

"Did the Prethen destroy the ship as I ordered?" said a hard voice. The man in front of him quaked.

"N-no s-s-sir." The man shook even more as the threatening figure rose from his seat, his bearskin robe enclosing all of his body.

"WHAT!" he thundered. "Why?! Why did it not destroy it?" he hissed. The other man dropped to his knees.

"T-the mage, M-master S-salmalín, blasted it. It ran a-a-away."

"Why didn't the control spell work?" said the man, moving his head in annoyance, forcing his blond hair back from his face, or what used to be a face.

"Because the Prethen was hurt my Lord." Replied the man, easing a little, and then tensing again seeing his master was displeased.

"But here is the formula for complete control, master. It will work only on mortal animals, not humans." He put in hurriedly.

Satisfied, the man in the bearskin nodded.

"You may leave."

Thankfully, the other man left the papers in front of the throne he was standing before and turned to leave.

"Oh and Allitser?" his master called back. Allitser turned around, saw a blue hand stick out of the cloak and then saw scarlet light wash all around him. He tried to scream but the red power just held him by the throat until he choked and died.

"Thank you." The voice said sneering, and the glowing red ruby in his right eye winked out to be mottled blood red "I will make Numair Salmalín pay." He rasped.

Chapter 4

"On behalf of the Honored Emperor Kaddar, you are greatly welcomed to Carthak. Royal protocol ensures that-" Daine stopped paying attention to the Carthaki announcer and looked around. Kaddar had arranged for them to be met at his new palace, and though nowhere as nearly costly as what it had been when Ozorne was ruling, it was still very royal.

"Daine, you're to go up now!' hissed Numair. Startled Daine walked up towards Kaddar who was seated on the throne. He wore a simple tunic that was well cut and the costly robes of a King, short sleeve and calf length, with gold thread twined all through it with gold brocade edging. He only had the protective rings that his mother gave him, unlike last time when he was dripping in jewelry, noted Daine. Simple and elegant, if not more commanding than last time. Kitten next to her chirped and he smiled.

"I am honored to see you again Daine." He said, as she curtsied before him. Kitten stood on her hind legs and observed it all. Numair then was announced and bowed before Kaddar.

"Good to see you again, Your Imperialness." He said politely and Kaddar nodded.

"Likewise Master Salmalín." Turning to the audience of the court, Kaddar announced.

"May we all welcome our cousins from Tortall. They are our guests and that they may be respected tonight at a banquet held in their honor!" Everyone cheered and soon they returned to their daily duties.

"The banquet will be held at 2 past the sunset. I know you are tired from your journey."

"You have no idea." Said Daine dryly, leaning against Numair for support. He wrapped his arms around her. If Kaddar was surprised at this, he didn't show it. He smiled and continued, gesturing to a servant.

" Misha will take you to your rooms where your luggage has been taken." Kaddar said, gesturing to a servant with black hair and coal-black eyes.

"Thank you for your hospitality Emperor Kaddar." Said Numair.

"I presumed you'd be having separate rooms but after meeting you again…." Kaddar trailed off mischievously. Daine blushed.

"That can be changed." He continued, his eyes twinkling. Numair began to speak his agreement but Daine interrupted him.

"I'm sure the current arrangements will be fine." She said pointedly, and they were both led off to their rooms.

Daine immediately stripped and climbed into the hot water in the bath. She closed her eyes and bathed. It was so good to have a bath after being at sea, especially as the salt water had made her hair curlier than it already was, she thought. Content to let Daine relax, Kitten explored the room they'd been given. Daine soaked there until the water was cold and then got out. Her skin was wrinkly but she didn't care. Drying herself, she began to dress in the blue gown she'd packed. Seeing the gown reminded her of Alanna so she quickly wrote a note on a piece of parchment telling her all was well. Daine then went to her window and called a nearby bird in the palace gardens. It was a passing sparrow hawk and it swooped down to land neatly on her arm.

–If you could please and don't mind, take this letter to Tortall?­- she asked.

-Of course-replied the bird. -If you could please come help my mate. She was attacked by a flock of starlings and can't fly. If she is healed I will be able to leave. -

Daine immediately took off her dress and put on breeches and a clean tunic. She then pulled on her boots and climbed out the window to follow the bird. The bird led her to a tree a few distances away from her window.

–What is your name? -Inquired Daine on the way.

-I am Strongclaw- the bird replied. –I was named that because I carried a baby rabbit in my bare claws to my nest-.

–That is most impressive- commented Daine and Strongclaw chirped modestly. He stopped at the tree and Daine climbed up to where the nest was. At first the bird sitting there squawked in fright until Strongclaw appeared and said

-Don't be afraid Whitetip. She's here to help you-. She indeed did have white tips on her wings and Daine marveled at how pretty they were.

–What is a two legger human going to do!?- Whitetip said disdainfully.

-I can heal you-said Daine in beast-speech. Whitetip almost fell off her perch in surprise.

–Then heal- she said more kindly. Pulling at the pool of her magic, she looked at the wing. It was broken in three places.

-How did this happen? - Daine asked.

-I was swooping in for a rabbit and the starlings thought I was going for their young. Three got me from behind and I was lucky I was near our nest to land on. - Daine nodded and worked the bones in the wing together. It was a common procedure Daine had done many times over the years now and it was done in a flash.

–Thank you- said Whitetip, stretching her wing to its full extent. Daine smiled and climbed down the tree. She handed the parchment to Strongclaw who took to the air immediately.

–I knew there was a catch somewhere. - Said Whitetip grumpily and Daine went back to her window. She climbed in and cleaned Kitten's scales until they shone. Kitten admired herself in the looking glass, turning this way and that so she could see the glimmer of her scales, while Daine put on her gown and did her face with the paint pots. With many recent banquets, Thayet had taught Daine how to use them very well, and Daine was proud to admit, the results were quite nice.

"How do I look Kit?" she asked. Kitten turned to glance at her and cooed, her eyes glowing brilliant silver. Daine's hair flew into a simple yet elegant twist.

"Thanks. Come on you vain little thing." Daine said and she picked Kitten up. Kit squawked indignantly at that. Daine laughed and the two of them went down to the banquet.

Chapter 5

Daine and Kitten walked to the banquet hall entrance where Numair was standing, his back to them in his black master's robes.

"Dressing up are we?" Daine teased. "Whatever do you need to be so handsome for?"

Numair turned around. He gasped but didn't say anything. His eyes and kiss said it all. Kitten interrupted with a loud chirp.

"All right, all right." Said Numair, half complaining. "Shall we go in?"

Daine smiled and took his offered arm.

The Banquet hall was beautifully rebuilt Daine decided, glancing around at the gleaming walls and the talented architecture. Carthak had always been famous for it's talents in the arts. Glancing around at the walls Daine realized that there were scenes of history on them. Daine followed the pictures until her gaze rested on a picture she was hoping would not be up there. A picture of Ozorne. Daine shuddered then the next picture almost made her laugh out loud. It was Carthak in ruins and Ozorne at the mercy of hyenas. It was the destruction Daine had been partly responsible for. Daine turned to point it out to Numair but he was gone. Daine then spotted him several meters away, talking to a brunette with her dark brown hair in ringlets. She was wearing an emerald green dress with a low cut neckline that fitted her curves like a dream. Daine sighed. She'd trained with the Queen's riders a lot more that summer, and her body had lost its puppy fat and she had become more toned. Not something that was liked especially at fancy parties. Daine's heart sank as the brunette led Numair to a place at the table. As if Numair had suddenly remembered Daine, he looked around the hall. Daine quickly looked away, though she could see him out of the corner of her eye waving her over. Daine pretended not to see him.

"If such a beautiful lady would sit with me I'd be the luckiest Emperor in the world." Said a voice and Daine turned to find Kaddar next to her.

"But of course." Said Daine. "I am you guest. It'd be rude if I didn't sit with you."

"Where's Numair?"

"Over there.' Said Daine gesturing. Numair looked at her apologetically but Daine ignored him. She felt quite hurt at the moment.

"Please eat the antelope steaks this time."

"Skysong can eat them. Then you can too." Skysong chirped her agreement and Daine put some on the plate that was in front of Skysong, who was sitting happily between them on a stool. Kaddar smiled at her enthusiasm and put another piece of steak on the dragon's plate.

"You know you've changed," he said "but you haven't." Noticing Daine wasn't listening, Kaddar followed her gaze to where Numair and the brunette were laughing. Daine mentally noted how close she was sitting and frowned as he leaned even closer to say something in her ear.

"Marianne Venteski." said Emperor Kaddar, as Kitten muttered darkly under her breath.

"Oh, I'm sorry." Said Daine, still not taking her eyes off the two.

"Don't be," said Kaddar. "She's new. Works in my branch of studies at the new university."

"What does she study there?" asked Daine, as she watched Numair pass a goblet of wine to Marianne. Daine noticed his hand rested on Marianne's a beat too long and she felt heat rush to her head and face. Kitten watched them too, muttering to herself. Her scales were tinged with pink and Daine understood she was annoyed too. Daine felt comforted by her friend's loyalty. Kitten chirped questioning at her and Daine nodded slightly. Kitten trilled darkly and the goblet tipped over onto Marianne's plate, as if Marianne had knocked it. Marianne look flustered and waved over a servant to clear her plate. Numair looked sharply towards Daine's direction. She smiled sweetly and innocently at him, then glanced over at Kitten who was doing the same thing only in a dragon version. Kaddar, aware of what was going on just answered her question.

"Animals of all things." He said. Daine raised an eyebrow in a look of disdain and Kaddar said teasingly,

"Bet she doesn't know half of what you do." Daine looked at him, at the look of amusement on his face and blushed. That was exactly what she'd been thinking.

"Don't worry about it. He loves you." Comforted Kaddar, patting her hand. " Now can you please pass me the antelope steaks?" Daine rolled her eyes and passed them to him.

The banquet lasted for a few hours and soon the guests returned to their rooms. Daine walked over to where Numair was still talking to Marianne. She tapped him on the shoulder and he jumped startled, a look of surprise, then embarrassment crossing his face. Daine regarded him coolly and turned her attention to Marianne, who'd asked,

" Numair, who is this lovely girl?" Getting over his shock, Numair replied.

"This is Daine, Marianne. Marianne, Daine." Daine smiled falsely as Marianne took Numair's arm possessively. Numair looked uncomfortably between them.

"Nice to meet you, Marianne. I'm sure I'll be seeing a lot of you." Was all Daine said before turning abruptly and walking off.

"What an unusual girl Numair, How do you know her?"

Daine heard, as she stalked off fuming, her eyes welling with tears that threatened to spill over.

Once she was outside the banquet hall she ran out onto the balcony in the dark. The sky was full of stars and Daine hated how they could look so beautiful when she was so sad. Numair ran up behind her.

"Daine?" he said tentatively, putting his hand on her shoulder. When she didn't move he took that as a good sign and rested both hands on her shoulders. She was holding herself so tightly, Numair amusedly thought where she got the anger. He shook the thought out of his head. Daine was angry with him. That's all that mattered now.

"Magelet I'm sorry." He whispered. He turned her around slowly and looked at her. There were no signs of tears but he suspected she was holding them in. He kissed her gently but she was like ice. Cold and unresponsive.

"Magelet I didn't think you cared that much." He whispered. She suddenly drew closer and whispered

"But I did." Before she kissed him. No one can make me feel this way he thought feverishly, no one.

They walked off into the night, Numair happy to have his Daine back.

Chapter 6

Daine rubbed her eyes sleepily. Kitten was there eating her breakfast and greeted Daine with her usual whistle.

"Good morning to you too Kitten." She smiled. She dressed in her usual breeches and tunic, but put a ribbon through her hair. They were going to the university that day and the opening was going to be at the banquet that night. It was to be a long day. Daine ate breakfast that had been brought up by a servant and Strongclaw swooped in when she was halfway through, carrying a piece of rolled up parchment.

–Good morning- she said, and gave him the dried fruit on the plate next to her. He chirped his thanks and dropped the parchment. Daine unstuck the wax seal of a lion and unrolled it.

Hello Daine, It read.

I received your letter okay though it was a surprise. You were in a bad storm on your way to Carthak, don't you lie to me missy! I find out everything! Daine grimaced, and kept reading.

Everything is well at home. Tkaa sends his well wishes to you and Kitten. Also your mother came but I told her you were in Carthak. She was sad she couldn't see you but she said she'd visit you at another equinox. She sends her love also. How are you and Numair going? Daine remember there are many ladies at court who'll find Numair attractive too. Just watch what you do. Write to me soon please.

Love Alanna.

Daine smiled thoughtfully at the letter, and went out to find Lindhall and Numair. It was time they got a move on.

"To your left is the medical wing. We formulate medicines there, and there is the quarantine..."

"Oh, I'd never have guessed," muttered Daine sarcastically under her breath. She caught Lindhall's eye and the look on his face meant that he'd heard what she had said. He rolled his eyes playfully at her and she smiled. They'd been walking around the university for about 3 hours now, and though the university was interesting, it didn't take 3 hours to see the whole place. It was fairly small, but I suppose if your guide were Marianne, you'd take as much time possible to spend with Numair, thought Daine dryly. He was lapping it all up, as if he'd never seen a university before. Daine hurried up to him and took his hand, walking in time with him. He squeezed her hand, but kept focused on Marianne.

"And that is the end of the tour." Said Marianne at last, her eyes flicking from Daine and Numair's hands to his eyes.

"It certainly is different since the last time I was here." Commented Lindhall.

"Yes well, this one had to be rebuilt due to extensive damage of the other one." Answered Marianne tartly. Daine blushed, knowing that the remark was aimed at her. Numair released Daine's hand and didn't say a word.

"There were special circumstances surrounding that and I think it was rather worth losing the university. I'd rather freedom than oppression." Spoke up Lindhall in her defence. Daine smiled gratefully at him and Marianne was silent.

"Maybe we should find a room to um, discuss tonight's opening events." Put in Numair uncomfortably, trying to ease the tension.

"Of course" said Marianne hurriedly, smiling charmingly at Numair. She linked her arm through his and began walking off.

"I have a wonderful idea. We can..." Daine and Lindhall trailed behind them.

"Watch out for her," whispered Lindhall to Daine. "She wants her talons on Numair, she does." Daine looked at him in amazement.

"I'm glad someone else noticed" Daine replied. "I-" a shriek ahead cut her short and she and Lindhall ran to catch up. Marianne was the one who shrieked and she was ducking and dodging wildly swinging her arms. A brown missile kept trying to attack her, swooping and swerving in the air.

"Leave it alone!" cried Daine and ran forward to the brown thing. It fluttered down onto her shoulder.

"That wretched thing tried to swoop me and look what it did to my arm!" Marianne shrieked, pointing to the line of blood trickling from her shoulder.

"Bonedancer!' scolded Numair, looking disapprovingly at him. The little bone fossil tossed his head away from Numair and ignored him.

"Bonedancer doesn't normally attack people for nothing. Did you provoke him?" asked Daine, as she checked him for damages.

"Well of course I didn't provoke the little stinker!' hissed Marianne.

"What did you say you studied Marianne?" asked Lindhall mildly. "Animals I think it was? Most professors find Bonedancer rather remarkable." Marianne fell silent and glared at him.

"Maybe you had something that didn't belong to you." Continued Lindhall, not noticing her glare. Numair raised his eyebrows at this and Marianne tried to compose herself.

"Yes, of course he's fascinating, it was just surprising." Marianne said in a forced sweet tone. "Can I hold him?" she asked Lindhall.

"Daine raised him." Was all he said. Marianne looked at Daine who nodded. Marianne took him out of Daine's arms.

"Let me have look at you, you -OW!" she cried. Bonedancer had bitten her finger hard and flown back to perch on Lindhall's shoulder.

"We should get that looked at Marianne." Said Numair, guiding her towards the Medical wing. Marianne nodded numbly, after glaring at Daine with hatred.

"It gave me such a fright Numair." She said feebly, letting him guide her away and resting her head on his shoulder. Daine looked after them disgusted and then patted Bonedancer on it's head.

"Good job Bonedancer." She whispered and followed them resignedly with Lindhall, an odd look on his face.

Chapter 7

The banquet hall was done up even more beautifully than the night before, with bouquets of beautifully arranged flowers everywhere. Daine was wearing her violet dress with violets embroidered on using violet thread. The beading along the bottom balanced the dress perfectly and made and elegant swishing sound as she walked. Somehow Kitten had managed to make the violet shimmer using her magic. Daine was very grateful and cleaned Kitten's scales until they shone their brightest. Lindhall was seated next to Kaddar. Kitten sat on her stool between Daine and Lindhall with Numair on Daine's other side. Marianne had positioned herself on Numair's other side. Kaddar, who was seated at his throne, rose and everyone, fell silent.

"This banquet is in honor of two very important guests who have traveled all the way from our neighboring region, Tortall. They have given us the honor of opening our new university. So please make them welcome. Announcing Veralidaine Sarrasri, Master Salmalín and the dragon, Skysong." The hall erupted into cheers and Daine, Numair and Skysong rose in front of the crowd. It had been decided that Daine would make the opening speech. As she made her way towards the throne, admiring whispers rippled through the crowd. Daine felt uneasy at the sound but still kept going. She cleared her throat.

"On behalf of Tortall, we'd like to thank his Imperialness, Emperor Kaddar for this honor. Unfortunately, the old university was destroyed due to circumstances that were beyond control. But I hope you all agree the outcomes are somewhat better." Everyone murmured his or her agreement. The whole of Carthak thought Kaddar was a fair and just ruler who treated the people well and made good laws. Daine continued.

"Though there has been bad blood between Carthak and Tortall, we all want to put that behind us, and all our hearts desire is peace." The hall was ethereally silent as Daine continued. "The new university works hard to find results for cures of illnesses, a better understanding of animals and man, plants, immortals, land, farming, medicines and many more important studies, that benefit the whole of Carthak. May the power of learning not be misused intentionally. May the gods blest and so with your approval, we open the new Mage University!" The whole audience burst into cheer and approval. Daine curtsied to them and then to Kaddar who nodded, smiling. He moved to his place at the table.

"And now that the speech is over let everyone feast!"

Daine returned to her seat.

"Well done magelet." Said Numair. She smiled shyly.

Marianne smiled falsely.

"You had them riveted." She drawled. Daine just looked down at her hands and began eating. Kitten nudged her gently and Daine cheered up a bit.

"Thanks Kit," she whispered, and put more food on the Immortal's plate, who whistled her thanks. They ate many different kinds of delicacies, all with it's own unique tastes. Daine noticed Marianne piling Numair's plate with all sorts of odd things. He looked slightly green and Daine didn't bother to call help for him make it disappear. He deserves to have an upset tummy, she thought fiercely. Then she amended by mentally adding, I'll bring him some chamomile tea later. That'll soothe it.

Seeing Numair's plate reminded her of Varice, and looking around Daine couldn't see her. She made a mental note to ask Kaddar about it later, who was in deep discussion with Lindhall about Tortall and the past couple of years. Daine smiled at the two and her plate was cleared away by a servant, who then put a clean one in its place. Once everyone's plate was cleared, Kaddar stood up and cleared his throat.

"In honor of this occasion, a very special cake has been baked. The cooks have done a very commendable job, but the design and detail of the cake is truly beautiful. The lady who did so is extremely talented in these arts and I hope you will all appreciate her exquisite work of art." A large cake was rolled out on a metal trolley and everyone gasped including Daine. It was the largest and most beautiful cake Daine had ever seen. It was 5 tiers in height and a beautiful pale yellow. There were bluebirds done in spun sugar icing around the top tier and other animals down towards the bottom. They were all done to perfection and looked very realistic. "Please recognize the wonderful work done by Varice Kingsford!" Kaddar said and everyone clapped in admiration." As the cake was being cut and served, Daine spotted Varice further down the table. Varice noticed her and smiled cautiously. Daine smiled warmly at her and Varice returned the smile. I'll talk to you later, Varice mouthed and Daine nodded. Daine tried a piece of the cake and it was as delicious as it was beautiful. Daine turned to ask if Numair liked it and found Marianne spooning cake into his mouth. They were both laughing and Daine felt jealousy and sadness rush to her heart. She pushed it down and turned away, with clenched fists. Numair noticed her turn away and sent a kiss spell to her. Daine unclenched her fingers and somehow, the spell ricocheted off her power and hit Numair back. He recoiled slightly in surprise, that he's own spell had kissed him and that a bit of Daine's power had hit him hard, like being slapped sharply. He looked at her in amazement until Marianne turned him towards her. Happily, he lapped up her attention and completely forgot about Daine.

Chapter 8

Daine glanced around. The room had been cleared and many couples were moving around the floor. Daine sat on a couch at the side and watched Kitten watching everyone dance.

"Would you care to dance?"

Daine glanced up to find another handsome fellow in costly tunics offering his hand to her.

"No she would not." Interrupted a voice behind her. The young man bowed and walked off.

"Numair!" said Daine in disbelief. "I like to think that my own affair's are my business!" She pouted at him. Numair looked shocked.

"Well I want to dance with you." He said as if that made up for it.

"Why don't you find your little flirt." Daine said sarcastically. As if on a cue, Marianne appeared.

"Numair, would you care to dance?" She smiled sweetly at him and Daine knew what his choice would be. She was glowering and Marianne was the smiling lovely lady.

"Perhaps later Marianne" Numair said. Marianne looked at him disappointedly, and wandered off. Numair sighed watching her and then turned to Daine.

"What now Magelet?" he asked in annoyance.

"Don't let me ruin your love life." Daine said coolly.

"What is your problem!?" Numair exploded quietly. "Ever since we've arrived you've been so pouty and annoyed. I can't seem to do anything right and being friends with Marianne is something bad. Why?"

Daine looked at him levelly. "Because you're not friends. She's your little mistress, your little lap dog to make you feel better." When Numair paled at this Daine ignored that and continued. "So if your little friendship is making you so happy, keep it. I'm not worth that. And you shouldn't care if I go and make a hundred friendships with these court boys and go and dance with them because it's exactly what you're doing." With that, Daine turned on her heel and swished off, leaving Numair with his mouth hanging open.

Once out of his sight, Daine began to shake a little. What on earth had possessed her to say all that? She thought. Numair was meant to be her love, her friend, he didn't deserve that. Or did he? Daine looked back and found him already dancing with Marianne. He didn't waste any time, she thought sourly.

"Excuse me?" Daine turned to see a handsome young man about her own age standing before her. He had blue sparkling eyes that seemed to be laughing at her, dark hair and dark skin. He wore a blue tunic, a similar shade to his eyes, which was well cut and edged with silver thread. On the left of his chest was the symbol of Carthak that hadn't changed surprisingly, showing he was apart of the military.

"Would you care to dance?" Daine looked at him and smiled charmingly.

"Of course." She took his offered arm and he led her out on the floor.

"What's your name?" asked Daine. He looked so familiar but Daine couldn't recall ever meeting him.

"I'm hurt that you don't remember me," He said, flashing his white teeth at her mockingly. Daine felt a rush of annoyance and remembered.

"You're one of Kaddar's friends aren't you?! I met you last time at the training yards. You made that bird joke."

He laughed, eyes smiling.

"Glad you remember. I'm Jasthan. Obviously you didn't remember any names or titles?" he stated inquiringly. Daine blushed and shook her head.

"I remember beating you all though." She said mischievously.

"That you did. We should have a rematch, no?"

Daine nodded.

"Of course. Unless you're afraid to loose." She bated. Surprisingly, Jasthan laughed. The song ended and they turned to clap the musicians.

"Beautiful Daine, I'd never mind losing to you." He said and then kissed her hand. Daine blushed heavily and another voice interrupted them.

"Hey, don't keep her in hiding! I wish to dance with her too!" Jasthan laughed, and the youth turned to Daine.

"If I may." He said. Daine nodded and was soon whisked off by another charming partner. He was another of Kaddar's friends, who'd recognized her, and by the end of their dance, had arranged to meet for an archery rematch. Throughout the hours, Daine danced with many handsome young men. They were all very charming and flirtatious and Daine felt caught up in the excitement of it all. Soon she found herself dancing with Kaddar, a slower song happily, as she was tired.

"How do you find all my friends?" Kaddar asked, smiling, his white teeth flashing brightly against his dark tanned skin.

"They're wonderful." She said thrilled, eyes dancing. Kaddar laughed gently and spun her around slowly.

"They're all very taken to you." He said mischievously while Daine blushed. "But we haven't had a chance to talk. Really talk." His dark eyes looked so honest and innocent that Daine felt a rush of affection for him. She really cared about Kaddar and Daine knew he cared about her.

"It's good to see you again you know." He said, a little sadly.

"Why so glum?" she asked concerned.

"Because soon you'll leave again. It was so hard without you to talk to. Having to fix all of Carthak from Ozorne, you as well." He said teasingly. Daine smiled and ignored the jibe.

"I heard the news, that he was killed."

Daine looked at him, startled, and a bit wary.

"I don't care Daine, honestly." He reassured her. "It's better to know he's gone than that he may be still around somewhere."

Daine nodded her agreement.

"He killed Rikash." She said sadly, and the two danced in silence. Daine remembered her immortal Stormwing friend, and had immediately after, gone to see Maura of Dunlath about the news. Maura was sad to hear this, but glad to see Daine, Kitten and Tkaa again. The song ended and Daine turned to see that many people had left.

"I think we should leave now, don't you?"

Daine nodded.

"I have a rematch with your friends to attend."

Kaddar laughed.

"I'll come with you to watch you beat them again." Daine smiled and said she'd meet him at the training yards. Once in her room she changed into her breeches and shirt and wondered where Numair was. She washed her face and grabbed her bow, Kitten bouncing along beside her. As Daine turned the corner she found Numair.

"Where do you think you're going?" he asked demandingly. Daine felt a rush of annoyance and anger.

"Out." Was all she replied, and began to walk around him. He stopped her.

"Daine it's late. You shouldn't be wandering around by yourself."

"I won't be by myself. I'll have Kitten with me and Kaddar-"

"Oh and is Kaddar coming with you?" Numair said sarcastically, hurt across his face.

"I'm going to the training yards to beat a whole bunch of youths that I know in archery. Kaddar is coming along to watch them be beaten because they are his friends. It is simply an innocent and normal thing to do. Do you have a problem with that?" she said coolly.

Numair looked at her angrily. "Yes, I do have a problem with that."

"What if I was with the riders Numair? It is exactly the same as Tortall, and you never had a problem with that there. I'm not planning to sleep with them Numair, it's just archery."

The look on Numair's face made something click into place in Daine's head.

"It's because they're males isn't it?" she said. "That other men find me attractive and you can't handle that. I don't belong to you Numair." Daine's voice began to rise and became louder and louder.

"And the way you've been treating me lately hasn't made a difference. You can't just expect me to sit on the sidelines and wait for you, while you flirt with Marianne then expect me to still be your little girl who follows you devotedly and lovingly. You don't seem to care about me now that Marianne is here, so why should I care about you?" Daine finished in a rush of breath and stared determinedly at him. Numair turned and strode off hurriedly in the other direction. Daine sighed, all energy leaving her and leaned against the wall.

"Are you all right?" asked a voice gently and Daine turned to see Kaddar there. She nodded and then composed herself.

"I'm sorry you had to hear that." She said, and Kaddar just smiled in understanding.

"Come on. You have my friends to beat." He said and they walked to the training yards.

Chapter 9

Kaddar walked with Daine. She was talking excitedly, her cheeks rosy while she carried a very sleepy Kitten. He watched her smiling, listening to her recap the events of the night. She had of course, beaten all his friends at archery, even though they'd had 3 years of practise and they were in the army. But they hadn't seemed to mind. Kaddar's friends had all mischievously paid Daine compliments while she blushed redder and redder. But she is indeed beautiful, thought Kaddar. They reached Daine's room.

"Well, goodnight Daine. I'll see you in the morning." He said. He put her bow he had been carrying through her arm.

"Goodnight…Kaddar?"

"Yes?" he turned.

"Thank you."

He smiled and walked off.

Daine opened her door and then shut it. She put her bow down and was moving towards the bed to put Kitten on it when Kitten struggled, woke up and voiced a loud piercing shrill and jumped to the floor.

"Numair!?" cried Daine as Numair had become visible, standing in the corner of her room with a very sheepish and caught look on his face. Daine was surprised and then realised why he was hiding.

"What are doing in here?" she demanded, glaring at him.

Numair avoided her eyes and didn't answer.

"Spying on me," Daine said, disgusted. "Spying on me because you didn't trust me."

"Daine I-" Numair began, but was drowned out by Kitten's chirps and shrill whistles. She was clearly telling Numair off in no uncertain terms. Daine was too speechless to make any effort to try and quieten Kit. Kitten trilled what sounded like go, but Numair didn't move. Kitten did it again. Finally losing her temper, the immortal made Numair levitate in the air and fly towards the door.

"All right all right I'm leaving." He said and went out the door.

Kitten slammed it after him and sent a sheet of silver magic down the door, locking it. She then jumped into Daine's arms and fell asleep. Daine got into bed. Kitten was in such a deep sleep, she didn't feel Daine's tears drop onto her scales.

Chapter 10

* * * * * *

Early the next morning, Daine got up, pulled on a dressing robe and snuck out of her room so not to wake Kitten. She headed towards the kitchens, still arguing with herself. Numair and her shouldn't have been arguing! They loved each other and were each other's friends, soul mates and lovers! They cared deeply about each other. If I can forgive and forget to an extent so can Numair. I love him and that's all that should matter. The arguments were only lover's tiffs, Daine thought firmly. They'll be brushed aside. Daine balanced the tray of breakfast foods and chamomile tea up the stairs and to Numair's room. Breakfast in bed had been a special tradition of theirs and Daine was sure he'd appreciate it. Surprisingly, Numair's door was open ajar, so she pushed it open gently and set the tray on the table. She turned around and faced the bed. What she saw broke her heart.

Numair was lying on his back, his chest bare, rising up and down as he breathed. The blankets covered his lower body, but wrapped up in those same blankets next to him was Marianne. Daine didn't have to move the blankets to know that she didn't have any clothes on either. She let out a barely audible gasp and Numair's eyes opened. He saw her and his eyes widened in shock and horror that she'd seen him. Daine saw him glance at the tray on the table.

"I should have poisoned it." She said in a choked voice and ran out of the room.

Numair quickly got up and pulled on a dressing robe and some underwear, cursing. He ran out into the corridor too and saw a flash of blue material turn the corner. He raced after it until he came to where the corridors forked. Daine couldn't be seen so he pulled out a locket from thin air. It was a focus, a magical instrument that told him where about Daine was. It was more of a lover token than anything but he was very glad to have it now. It told him Daine went right. He sprinted in that direction and found Daine opening a heavy door down the opposite end of the corridor.

"Daine!" he called. "No, Daine, Please! Wait!"

She struggled with the door and he came closer. He was several metres away.

She finally turned. Her face was etched into his mind forever. Tears were streaming down her beautiful face and she was trembling. But her eyes held hurt, sadness, despair, disgust, anger and Hate all in one. Hate that he could do something like that to her, when he said that he loved her like no other. It was radiating from her and Numair knew he had to explain to her.

"Daine, please listen to me." He said pleadingly, stepping slowly towards her.

"Don't come near me!" she cried.

He halted.

"Daine please" he tried again, walking closer and closer. Daine's mind was screaming. Don't let him get any closer! Stay away! I don't want him anywhere near me!

Daine clenched her fists, trying to do everything she could to get him away from her. Numair reached towards her with his magic and Daine knew that there was nothing she could do to stop it coming to her. No! Go away! She put out her hands as if to push away Numair's magic. And just as it was about to reach her, a wall of shimmery ocean-blue appeared in front of her, slamming away Numair's pearly white magic. Numair stopped suddenly and looked at it in surprise. A shield of blue, with flashes of green and copper in it. Numair realized Daine had put it up to stop his magic getting near her. Conscious or not, it was a very powerful shield.

He was right in front of her now, he reached out with his arm to grab her hand when Daine snapped. How dare he come near her, try to touch her after he had touched that…

Blue magic shot out of her and smashed into Numair, sending him flying backwards and landing in a sprawled heap on the ground. His bones ached and he felt as if he was covered in bruises. He looked up at Daine, coldly beautiful and watched in awe as the locket rose into the air and then exploded in fine ash. Daine let out a single sob and ran out the door.

She ran into the gardens, to the furthest end and then collapsed under a weeping willow where she curled up and cried.

She sat there all day, unmoving. She heard voices calling for her but she didn't move. Animals came and curled next to her to keep her warm. Kitten appeared at Midday with a loaf of bread. Daine had no idea how she had got hold of it and was grateful, but she didn't eat it. Night fell and sounds of yet another banquet floated to her ears but still she didn't move. Finally, when she thought the banquet was over, she moved and started walking silently back to the palace. Hearing noises up ahead, Daine quickly hid behind a tree and peeked through a gap in the branches. She saw Numair and Marianne up ahead and changed her ears into those like a bats so she could hear every word of their conversation.

Marianne and Numair were kissing until Numair broke away.

"I'm sorry Marianne but I can't… Daine…"

Marianne pouted and then drew closer to him.

"That's not what you said last night."

And Numair kissed her again. They stayed there and then walked off. If Daine had thought her heart was broken before, she was wrong. It was well and truly broken now. She turned around and found Varice standing next to her. They regarded each other and then Daine fell into the older woman's arms, sobbing. Varice hugged Daine for what felt like an age.

"Come inside now. You're freezing."

Varice helped Daine undress and get into her bed, which had been warmed by bricks. Varice looked at Daine's puffy red eyes and tear-streaked face and felt for her. Daine was still crying her guts out but now she was talking.

"How could he Varice how could he!? I thought he loved me, I really did. And he said that he did, and there would be no one else and he just-just threw it all away for some bit of- with that ugh!"

The tears were flowing harder and harder and Varice sat facing her and hugged her. Daine felt some comfort in the long white soft sleeves of Varice's dress.

"Daine I know you don't want to hear this now, but you'll get over it."

"I'll get over it!? I've just lost the love of my life and you tell me I'll get over it?!"

"Shh, I know it sounds insensitive but it's true. But Daine? Think how your heart is now. Would you really want to be with him now, after this misery he's put you through?"

Daine was silent.

"Don't let him treat you like his puppet, some toy that he can have whenever he wants you. You deserve better than that."

Varice felt the Daine's tears soaking through her blouse until she suddenly struggled away.

"Would it have been different if I'd slept with him Varice?" Daine asked, her eyes searching the older woman's face.

Varice was silent.

"Would it have been!?" Daine cried, her voice breaking with emotion.

"I don't know Daine, I don't know.

"So? What did you think? Sorry if it was a bit-raunchy was the word one of my friends used. Please review and/or give me feedback or else I won't keep writing and I'll leave you all hanging forever. More stuff happens okay, so be prepared cause the whole story shall be VERY long!"

-Lullebell-