Okay, this is my first fic so it may be a little sucky! I am introducing Natalia (original choice of name I know!lol!) She is another Lady Knight, having been away on the northern border whilst the War was going on.The Scanrans have been defeated and Maggur has fled. Kel, Neal, Merric , Tobe and the war horses have arrived at Steadfast where Raoul , Dom and Third company are residing. Natalia has also arrived at Steadfast to greet Raoul , her childhood best friend. As the Icicle ball draws nearer, Kel and Natalia become friends. But with the Midwinter season nearly upon them, romance is in the air...

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Kel heaved a contented sigh as Hoshi rounded a bend in the woodland track and Steadfast came into view. It was an impressive sight, a massive fort with stones piled up at the sides, killing device repellants.Grinning she nudged Hoshi into a trot,Roaul had ordered her to come her as his wedding was scare under a month away.His betrothed Buri,was also there and Third Company of the King's Own.

The four horses clattered into the courtyard,soldiers emerging for the days duties gave Kel a cheerful wave as they passed.

'Sir Meathead, what are you doing here with no leash!?'

Dom walked foreward and grinned at Neal,Merric and Kel,Neal had dismounted from his horse laughing and hugged the slightly taller man.Kel felt the familiar blush play across her cheeks as she look at Dom's blue eyes.She had a huge crush on himone she was sure wouldn't be returned. Neal slapped Dom on the back,then headed off to headquarters to see his lady Yukimi. 'Where's he off to in such a hurry?' Dom asked Kel mystified 'Probably to see his betrothed Yuki' she replied

Dom gave her arm a playful squeeze and teased her. Warmth spread into Kel's cheeks as he touched her. Fighting to keep the emotion from showing she gave him a light shove 'So, how was managing a new refugee camp after single-handedly killing Blayce?I expect you found it quite tame!'

'No,you should see how some of the refugees act when they have a bee in their bonnet!' Kel chuckled,Dom laughed too. Warmth flooded Kel again,what was the matter with her?she cared for him but not like that.

A soldier came forward bowing to them both 'Begging your pardon milady,but I'm supposed to show you to your quarters'

Kel followed the man, excusing herself to Dom. After unpacking her things, she made her way to the mess hall, stopping several times to ask for directions. Raoul smiled warmly when he saw her,seated next to him was Buri who grinned cheekily at her. She eased into a chair between Neal and Buri and helped herself to a bowl of spicy broth, apple juice flavoured with cinnamon, a hunk of brown bread and some cheese studded with nuts.

'So' Raoul remarked smiling 'All done babysitting the refugees?' Kel resisted the urge to throw a roll at his cheerful face and instead allowed her self a mischievous smile.

'Oh very well Raoul, how are you two lovebirds coping?'

Raoul took a playful swipe at her with his napkin then said cheerfully 'Cheeky! I've been talking to Buri about what your wearing for the wedding? Have you found a suitable dress yet?'

Kel's face blanched in horror

'I have to wear a dress??'

'I'm afraid so Kel, wouldn't want you looking like you just came from tilting practice would we? '

'Well I wouldn't mind' she retorted, sipping her apple juice

'I know that' Raoul grinned 'That's why I'm providing an armed escort of Buri, Alanna and the Queen to make sure you can't slip away!'

Kel tried to come up with a good response, unable to think of one she returned to her food. Just then the doors of the hall swung open, and someone walked in..

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My first chapter!please read and review

Lady *Magewhisper*