Jan. 21, 2008
Hello, all! This is the first rewritten chapter of Yamani Rose. I am only making small changes, but there will be additions to what was already posted, so please reread.
The Yamani Rose:
Prologue:
The 14th Year of Reign
453 H.E.
Dear Diary,
The good news is I just finished my first year of training at the royal palace of Tortall. One eighth of my training to become a knight is complete. I have made many friends, and learned many skills. I have even managed to convince Neal to eat his vegetables! Then again, I have also been injured more times than I would like to count.
The bad news is that I will no longer be permitted to train here. The Stump kicked me out. I should have known that this was coming. He never wanted me here in the first place. No one really did, Joren certainly tried to show me that. I guess I just hoped that I could prove myself, and show them all that, not just the Lioness, but any girl could become a knight. I just wanted to rise above the standards, but I suppose that it is those standards and expectations that push us down.
I have not told anyone yet, not even Neal. I'm going to miss them all so much. I really don't plan on telling any of them anything. I hate goodbyes; I can never keep a strong face for them. That is why I will return to the Yamani Isles without a word to any of them.
I know, I know. Why go back to the Isles? Why not stay here with your friends and family? Sure, you can not be a knight but you don't have to leave! I have thought about all of this. But I have friends back in the Isles as well, and people who will accept me as I am.
-Keladry of Mindelan
Dear Diary,
I have arrived in the Isles. The trip was long but I am happy to be home. My family saw me off, but I crossed on a small trade ship from Blue Harbor. It was only the trader, his wife, two assistants, and I. We made the trip easily in only a few days, with only one minor spot of bad weather.
I will now travel with the trader and others to the main island, where I will stay during my training. I have already written the training master of the palace with my intent, and the emperor to request permission to stay in his house.
I must go now.
-Keladry of Mindelan