Note: I don't own any of the characters mentioned in any books by Tamora Pierce. All others not mentioned belong to me.

Unexpected News

The next morning Raoul and Buri didn't join the rest. They had to finish last minute plans. But Daine came and ate with their group. She explained that Numair was off on mage-work, but would be here in time for the Wedding. A certain redhead ex-lover of Kel's joined them in the mess hall too.

"I just got in," Cleon explained. "Good timing too, what with the wedding being tomorrow and all. Good to see all of you. I've been meaning to tell you this for quite some time."

Everyone sat up in their seats and stared intently at the large knight.

"I'm married!"

"When? Where?" was all that shocked Neal could say. Everyone else was speechless.

"Four months ago, in Kennan. I told you I had to marry or my people would starve. Kennan's doing a lot better now, so I guess it was worth it."

"You don't sound very happy, now." Owen bluntly observed.

"I am, it's- it's just, I mean, I love Ermelian, but, I know we discussed settling down, Kel, when we courted and I know I wanted to have children, but, I don't know, everything's happening so fast, and I'm not ready to- to be a father."

Everyone in the table was in an uproar, except for Cleon, who sat helplessly awkward, and staring nervously at each of his friends. One by one they each congratulated him, and told him he'd make a great father.

"You could have given us a warning." Neal grumbled.

"And miss seeing you this mad?" Cleon joked.

"Neal, don't be so rude!" Yuki said. "Congratulations, and don't worry about Neal, he's just mad I won't bed him until after our wedding."

Kel, Seaver, Cleon, Dom, Owen, and Daine laughed hysterically. Owen laughed so hard he choked on his bacon, and had to be thumped on the back by Dom.

Kel's heart tightened as she stared at Dom. She looked over at Cleon who had an odd look on his face. Kel blushed and gulped down the rest of her water to hide her embarrassment. She was almost certain Cleon knew about her crush.

"Whatever" grumbled Neal.

Later that day Kel, Alanna, and Daine were being fitted for their Bridesmaid's gowns. They were a soft fawn brown. Kel was especially pleased to find a high neckline. Alanna, however, pent most of the fitting griping about how the color clashed with her red hair. Kel told her she thought it looked fine, and was treated to a murderous glare from the King's Champion.

Raoul came in at that very moment, turned to Alanna and said, "Alanna, she's right, you look fine." It seemed as though Alanna didn't want to reply, because she turned her back and began discussing something with Daine.

Thanks so much to Sorceress Shadow Rain. You made my day. I'll keep trying to update whenever I can.