Summary: Okay this is all about one quote in Squire where Yuki says, "I was there, when they carried the beautiful Joren out. Not—as a sightseer." (p 370 of my edition) So basically this tells of a relationship that Yuki had with him and why she could never really love Neal. Starts maybe a week after they arrive from the Yamani Islands.

Chapter 1

There was to be a ball held in honor of their arrival, and Ladies Yukimi noh Daiomoru, Hname noh Ajikuro, and Princess Shinkokami were shaking at the very thought. Though their friend Keladry of Mindelan had assured them that they would be accepted easily, this would be their debut into Tortallian society, it would all come down to this night.

The night was cold as the ladies entered in silk kimonos and a warm coat. They stood waiting to be announced to court, considering that they did not have time to meet an escort they would all be present together. Shinko tried desperately to calm the other ladies, but they dismissed her knowing that she would be accepted as the wife-to-be of Prince Roald, but the others would have to make a path of their own.

"Presenting to your royal highness' and the court of Tortall, the Yamani ladies: Princess Shinkokami, Lady Hname noh Ajikuro, and Lady Yukimi noh Daiomoru," the herald announced as all heads turned to the stairs and the room went silent and all eyes were on them.

Later walking down the steps and greeting the monarchs would be a blur for all of the Ladies except Yukimi. Instantly her eyes were drawn to the most beautiful man she had ever seen, his long blond hair framing a pale face with piercing blue eyes. Her eyes were attracted to him, though she turned her head as she realized she was staring his strong and fierce presence was felt.

Yukimi ate with Shinkokami, desperate to make her feel comfortable with Prince Roald. She was not at all ignored by the men, but instead they flocked to her, asking for just one dance and with that a chance to be hers. With each new partner she remembered the pale beautiful man; she envisioned looking into his blue eyes as he would twirl her around the floor, in their own separate world. Her job was to be polite and become accepted, and though she had completed this task she was not quite content.

It was quite late before the Yamini's decided to retire to their chambers, and they were not the first, couple's were leaving ready to sleep after an enjoyable night. As Yukimi was walking to the door she felt a tap on her shoulder. Slowly she turned to find the beautiful blond man standing before her.

"Hello, You are Yukimi noh Daiomoru, are you not? I am Squire Joren of Stone Mountain. Would you care to honor me with a dance?" Joren asked with a determination behind his piercing blue eyes.

"I would be honored. Please squire, call me Yuki," She replied evenly, it was years of using her Yamini mask that kept her from blushing.

They danced for what seemed like a long time, with few people left on the floor they were left feeling comfortably alone. They chatted occasionally about life in Tortall and in the Islands, but they left most time for silence. It was the silence that seemed to bring them closer.

As the song ended they said their polite thank yous and Joren offered, "Shall I escort you to your chamber? The palace is rather large and we wouldn't want someone as beautiful as you to find yourself lost."

"Please, I do not yet know my way around," She replied, silently praising the Yamini God's for such good fortune.

They walked in silence, and Yuki didn't even notice as he held her hand in his. It was comfortable and they clearly had a connection of some type. The trip to her chambers seemed shorter than it had before, and it wasn't long before she realized that they stood in front of her wooden door.

"Squire Joren thank you, your presence was greatly appreciated tonight. I was quite lonely before you arrived," Yuki stated genuinely.

"You honor me Yuki, but please call me Joren, a title such as Squire is unnecessary. I enjoyed myself and hope that you will agree to visit with me this weekend in the city," He replied.

"That would be wonderful."

They stood there staring at each other, and before either of them registered anything Yuki felt her mouth pressing against Joren's. It was gentle but fiercely passionate, and as she realized just what she was doing she became scared. She broke the kiss and turned away from him.

"Goodnight Joren," Yuki whispered as she opened her door, she rushed in shutting the door on him. It had been close, she had nearly lost control of all emotion.

Joren stood outside puzzled, Yuki's face showed nothing the whole night, but he had guessed she was interested. Just as he may have seen a glimpse of fear as she rushed away from his kiss. This girl was different and yet a lot like Kel, she trained with a glaive and was probably very good at it. He had always said that he did not like the idea of a Lady training with weapons, but he had known he didn't actually believe it. He just did not like Kel, but Yuki, now she was something different.

Yuki stood behind her door until she heard Joren's steps fade down the hall. She quickly undressed and prepared for sleep, thinking all the while of what the future days may hold. Tortall might not be quite as scary as she had once thought, friends were easy to find in this new land.

okay ya a bit cheesy, but who knows Joren could be different in a different situation. Everyone is capable of some human emotion. O well I know you guys may hate it but at least review about how much u hate it. Sorry its so short but this was just an intro

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