I don't think I've written any fanfiction in half a year. Somehow, I don't think I'll be writing anymore. Enjoy my last ficlets that until now have been hiding in my documents.

Title: The Beginning
Fandom: Tamora Pierce
Characters: Alianne of Pirates Swoop, Alanna of Pirates Swoop and Olau, George Cooper/of Pirates Swoop, Maude
Word Count: 295
Rating: G
Summary: The beginning. Literally. Moments after the birth of Aly and Alan.

Alanna of Pirates Swoop and Olau would almost rather face Duke Roger five times over than go through the agonizing pain of birthing again. Almost.

The beauty and innocence in the faces of her two newborn children, however, changed her mind. It had been like this after the birth of her first son, Thom, as well. It was the one time in which she gave in and rested without complaint. It was the time in which her motherly instincts took over and she truly felt like any other mother of the realm. It was on this rare occasion that she was no longer Champion of the realm or Alanna the Lioness, but simply a mother.

"A boy," Maude announced. "And a girl."

Alanna smiled. A beautiful boy and her first little girl. Somehow, Alanna knew it would be her only girl. Three children were more than enough for her.

Maude wrapped both babies in cloth. Alanna sat up in her bed and Maude passed her the boy. He slept peacefully in Alanna's arms. The second baby was passed to her father, George. He cradled her gently and sat at the edge of the bed.

"She has your eyes," Alanna commented wearily. They were hazel.

"But she shall have a name to resemble yours," George said softly. "Perhaps she'll also gain your fiery spirit."

Alanna smiled. "And perhaps the little lad will develop a sense of cunningness."

George grinned. "Perhaps."

"She looks like an Alianne to me."

"Alianne it is."

The boy began to cry. Alanna knew what this sort of cry meant. He was hungry. Although tired, she fed him. "And this one?" Alanna asked.

George paused.

"Might I suggest Alan?" Maude said.

Alanna watched for her husband's reaction. "Alan," he nodded.

Alanna smiled. "Alan."