A Portrait
Author's Note-This fic was inspired by a friend of mine who was nice enough to draw me a picture of Alannah. I've posted the link in my profile page, so everyone can see for themselves how talented she is. The artist in this fic is her, by the way. Cristina-I hope you don't mind that I put you in one of my stories.
Stayne gaped at Alannah in amusement and confusion. "You're going to do what?"
Alannah laughed. "I'm going to have my portrait done. I hear that Lady Ladisa is a marvelously talented artist, and I asked her if she would be willing to do a portrait of me, and she agreed. She should be here pretty soon. Do you want to watch her work?"
Stayne grinned and nodded. "Of course I do." There came a knock on the cottage door, and Stayne went to answer it. "You must be Lady Ladisa. Please, come in."
Lady Ladisa was a bright and cheerful woman of twenty four, with black hair and a perpetual grin on her face. She was carrying a small easel, a canvas, and a box of paints, and she wore a smock of bright blue. She pumped Stayne's hand enthusiastically. "That's me! But I must insist that you call me Cristina! I'm honored to be painting a portrait of your beautiful wife!" She walked quickly over to Alannah and shook her hand, grinning widely. "I'm so pleased to meet you, Alannah! I only hope I have the skills needed to capture you adequately."
Alannah grinned, immediately liking this rather exuberant and energetic woman. "I'm sure that you will do a splendid job. Now, is there anyplace you want me to sit?"
Cristina looked thoughtful. "Actually, I think the picture would look much better if you stood." She looked around the cottage, and her eyes fell on Stayne's sword, which was hanging on its customary peg. She grinned. "Alannah, would you object to having your husband's sword in the picture with you?"
Alannah walked over and pulled the sword off the peg, grinning at Cristina. "I would not object at all. Ilosovic, do you mind?" Stayne shook his head, and Alannah smiled at him. "Thank you, love. Cristina, where do you want me to stand?"
Cristina pointed to the far wall, and Alannah walked over and stood in front of it. "Here?"
Cristina nodded and set up her easel. She began to paint, humming quietly under her breath, and then looked up at Alannah. "Put your right leg against your left."
Alannah obeyed, and Cristina grinned. "Perfect. Now, place the sword point down on the floor. I want it to look as though you're leaning casually against it."
Alannah watched as Cristina painted. Stayne, who was standing behind Cristina, gave a low whistle of appreciation. "You're quite talented. I don't think I've ever seen a more beautiful picture of my Lady. You've captured her perfectly. Especially those lovely legs of hers." He looked over at Alannah, a wicked grin on his face. "I'm so glad that you don't wear stockings. Those lovely bare legs of yours are quite sexy, you know."
Alannah rolled her eyes. "Behave yourself, love. Cristina, how's the portrait coming along?"
Cristina grinned widely at her. "I'm nearly done. I just need to add a few finishing touches….there. All finished. Tell me what you think."
Alannah walked over to the easel and gasped in delight. "That's wonderful! I couldn't be more pleased! Thank you so much for this lovely picture. I shall cherish it forever."
Cristina beamed in pride.