Destiny: Chapter 4 Destiny
Ch. 4/?
by Dani
Disclaimer: "Voltron, Defender of the Universe" and its characters are ©1984 World Events Productions, Ltd. This story is for entertainment purposes only. Original characters and storyline are property of the author, please do not use without permission.
Ratin: PG-13. Warning-Not for the timid.
Author Notes: Here is chapter four of Destiny and as the warning says, this is not for the meak or timid.
Okay, its not like there is violence or I go into gory details...nope not one bit of gore in any of my stories.
But a steamy scene is in this chapter. I had a hard time writing it, so if any of you have suggestions to make it "more" steamy, then please C & C....I want to pull it off just right, and you will know what I mean when you read it over....
~Are you sure?~
Alysson could only nod as she stared at the small view screen before her.
Anala and Alysson stood in a private conference room as they made an important call to their home planet of Vallis. On the screen before them, they were speaking to Fenrer, an elder that Alysson knew personally.
"He has the marks of the Nilan already," she stated. "And they weren't there yesterday."
~Is there any other signs besides the nosebleeds to suggest the K'Chau?~ he asked.
"Seeing that I'm not familiar with the K'Chau, I'd thought that you could come and see for yourself."
Fenrer slowly nodded. ~This is a cause for concern,~ he stated. ~But, I won't be making the trip. I'll be sending my study. I am finishing up the training of our newest members, and this a crucial time for them.~
"Your study?"
~Brendt,~ he said. ~He is the next in line should I decide to leave my post. He's very knowledgeable and should be able to help you sort out your problems.~
"I thank you, Fenrer," Alysson stated.
Alysson then noticed that there was something on his mind however. She made a silent request for Anala to leave and as soon as the door closed behind her.
"Fenrer, is there something else that I should know about?"
He somewhat shook his head. ~I'll contact you as soon as Brendt arrives,~ he stated. ~I'm going to check something before I say anything.~
"But does it concern my son?"
~No, no,~ he said. ~Actually, something you said to me 3 months ago.~
"About what?"
~About how you defeated Kelar….~
**********
Allura smiled as she ran a brush through Anala's hair and Nanny added some flowers to her top braid.
"This costume really suits you," Allura said as she came to stand before her. "I'm so glad that you could fit it."
Allura brought her over to the standing mirror and had Anala model in front of it. Her face lit up as she looked at herself in the mirror.
"Wow, this is beautiful," she stated as she modeled the dress she wore. "What is it of?"
"A character from an old Arusian legend," she said. "A princess who could enchant all those who met her, but she knew nothing of humility. So as punishment, by our 'gods', she was cursed to wear the clothes of a poor woman, and if she were to have a man fall in love with her, for who she was, and not what she was, the curse would be lifted."
"So was she able to?"
Allura smiled as she came to stand behind her and they both looked into the mirror.
"This was her wedding dress," she said with a smile.
Anala's eyes widened. "What?"
"I think she was a great, great, great, great, great grandmother of mines," she said. "I don't even know her name."
"I wish we had beautiful stories like that," Anala stated.
"Stories are born from real life experiences," Allura said as she ran her brush one last time through her hair. "Just over time, they get embellished, or little dramatic details have been added."
"So do you know the true story behind this dress?"
Allura could only laugh. "Actually, I do, but the romanticized version is much more appealing in my opinion."
"I can understand why," she said.
"You truly have the most beautiful hair I've seen," Allura said.
"This is good hair day, Allura," Anala said with a smile. "My hair is usually unmanageable."
Allura smiled as she placed her brush down on a nearby table. "It's just strange, for me," she said with a smile. "Everyone on Arus have light colored hair. My father was the only one with the darkest hair."
Anala continued to model the dress. "How strange," she said. "Is that a genetic trait among your people."
"It seems so," she said. "In fact when Sven and Keith arrived here, we were almost taken by the fact that they…."
Anala then turned to her when she fell silent. "That they both were dark haired?"
Allura could only nod as she met her gaze. There was something that had caught her attention as she stared at Anala.
"You're mother isn't dark haired," Allura stated. "Was that your father's gift to you?"
Anala bowed her head a little. "I never knew my father," she said as she walked to where Allura was standing. "He died before I was born."
"I'm sorry," Allura stated. "I didn't mean…"
Anala smiled. "I have seen pictures of him, however, and yes, he did have dark hair," she said. "Black hair to be exact."
Allura nodded. "Well, to give him credit, he definitely gave you the best traits," she said.
"Thank you," she said. "Now, if Nanny doesn't mind our chatting, we have to get you into your costume now."
"And I have the perfect one for you." Nanny said as she walked into Allura' s closet.
Allura and Anala both giggled as Nanny started to pull out several dresses.
**********
"When you said Lancelot, I was thinking of the whole knight in shining armor deal," Pidge stated as he watched as Lance put on the finishing touches to his costume.
"Well, I figured that the only way anyone is going to see me in tights, is this costume," Lance stated. "And don't get any hair-brained ideas about taking pictures. I'll be sure to show your grandkids the nude baby pics we found of you."
"You wouldn't dare."
Lance let out a laugh as he sheathed his plastic sword into its holder that was attached to his waist.
"I have nude baby pics of everyone on this team," Lance said. He then smiled to himself. "Everyone of them saved for a special occasion."
"You mean blackmail."
"Well, if you be good, I will let you have copies," he said as he fastened a cape around his shoulders. "Especially of the ones of Keith."
"Why?"
"He's the only one with full frontal nudity in his pics."
"What?"
Lanced laughed to himself as he put on a hat. "Yeah, his father gave them to me when we were kids," he said.
"I'll be sure to take you up on that offer, later," Pidge said with a smile.
"Well, lets get going and see if our esteemed captain is ready."
"Do you even know what he is wearing?"
"Nope, but Hunk would be the talk of this evening," he said. "I don't know how he is going to pull of Conan…."
Pidge laughed. "Lets take a bet and see how long it will take Nanny to notice and do something about it."
"You're on."
**********
Anala and Allura entered the ballroom together and was greeted by Lance and Coran. Allura took Coran's offered hand as Lance took Anala's. Allura could only smile as she was then lead off by Lance to the dance floor.
"Glad you both could make it," Coran stated as he escorted her. "Took you both long enough."
"Nanny was fussing over how I should wear my hair," Allura said with a smile. "Is everyone here?"
"Almost," he said. "A couple of mayors are on their way. Keith is doing the hourly check on the status of our security."
Allura nodded as she scanned the dance floor. She smiled catching her friend among the dancing people. Hunk was definitely the catch of the evening for some gawking women, and Anala and Lance were dancing in the middle of the room. She then spied Xue and Alysson off to one side, having a conversation with one of the diplomats they had invited.
"Well, it seems we got to pull this off without much problems," she said.
"And the requests start pouring in," Coran added as a young man approached them.
"Princess, would you like to join me for a dance?"
Allura smiled to her court advisor, then accepted the offer.
**********
"Hey, you can't be hogging her all to yourself."
Anala and Lance both stopped their dancing as Keith came up to them. He was dressed in all white, of which Anala quickly recognized. She gave him a scrutiny that was not noticed by Lance, however.He then gave a deep bow to Anala and offered his hand to her.
"I would be honored if you could join me for a dance, my queen," he said.
Anala smiled as she offered her hand.
"I gladly accept your offer," she said with a smile. She then gave Lance a wink as Keith took her out onto the dance floor.
"Seems like you both are getting along," he said once they were out of ear shot.
"I can see why you both are great friends," she said. "I agree, he is totally an opposite of you. Nice choice of costume by the way. Did mom give that to you?"
"Yeah," he said. "Exactly what is it?"
She smiled to herself. "Actually it's a ceremonial outfit," she stated. "Wedding ceremonial."
"Wedding?" he asked. "No wonder she was a bit coy as to what it was of."
"She's sneaky, that's for sure."
He smiled. "So, what does he think about all of this?"
"I think he's still trying to comprehend it," she said. "But things have a way of working themselves out."
The song they were dancing to turned to a slow dance. Anala let out a sigh as she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Do you think it wrong of me to try?"
"To do what you want and think is right?" he asked.
"I just don't want him to think that he has to…"
"Anala, the only thing that matters right now is the feelings you both share for each other," he said. "It might not be 'love' right now, but there is definitely something there between you both, that you both agree that is there."
She silently laughed to herself. "Just be sure to knock me over the head if I start to do stupid things," she said.
"No, I'll hit Lance over the head if you start doing stupid things, because I know he is the reason behind you doing stupid things."
All she could do was laugh.
**********
Allura let out her breath as she opened the doors to the ballroom and stepped out onto the balcony outside. She closed them behind her, leaving them slightly open so she could still hear the music.
She walked over to a nearby stone bench where she promptly seated herself down and pulled off her heels. She let out a contented sigh as she massaged her one foot.
"I am never going to wear these stupid things again."
"I always thought heels were a stupid invention."
Allura let out a gasp, not realizing that she wasn't alone. She looked around and watched as a figured emerged from the shadows of one corner of the balcony. She then smiled as she picked up her heels and placed them on the bench next to her.
"Well, they had their glamour side to them when they were created," she said. "But they aren't shoes I wear all the time." She then looked up and noticed the detailed costume he wore. A pants type outfit with a tunic made of black feathers. Large black wings adorned them that blended well to the costume. "Nice costume by the way. Did Anala have help in making that for you?"
Keith only smiled as he approached her. "No, actually it was her mother," he said.
She smiled as he kneeled before her.
"May I?"
She could only stare at him as he took one of her legs into his hands. At that moment, she felt her heart start to race at his gentle touch, as his fingers glided down her calves to her feet. She then watched as he massaged her right foot.
"Better?" he asked.
"Yes," she said almost breathlessly. "I mean, yes." She said again. "I didn't think that the art of masseuse was required among the cadets at the academy."
He smiled. "One of many talents I have," he said. "Knowing it does help you in the long run,"
"Oh?" she asked.
He smiled as he met her gaze. "You never know who will need a massage, or when."
Allura bit her lower lip as he moved from her right foot and started to work on her left, almost sorry to have the warmth of his hands leave it.
"And just who did you think would need massages?" she asked.
"Maybe princesses with sore feet?"
She flushed a little, and was glad that the light that illuminated the balcony was minimal.
v "There," he said as he released her left foot. He then stood before her and offered both his hands to her. "Let's see how sore they are now."
Allura looked up to him then placed her hands into his. He then pulled her up from the bench. Though, she then found her legs give way, and she fell against him in the attempt.
She held her breath in that moment as strong arms came around her, to hold her steady, and on her feet. To her it felt as if an eternity passed as she stood there, leaning against him. She slowly opened her eyes, noticing that she was in that tight embrace, but something was covering her.
She then found her strength again as she pushed herself up. She then met his gaze as he let go of her, but still kept a hold on her hands. She then noticed that the wings of the costume were now around the both of them.
"I'm sorry," she stammered as she brushed the locks of her hair from her face.
"It's alright, princess," he said with a smile. "Anytime you need support…."
She could only stare at him. Before she could answer, he took one of her hands that he held and placed her right on his left shoulder and the other he held to his chest.
"Now, before you get stolen away by another dance partner, you owe me a dance."
"Shouldn't we go inside?" she asked.
"And have you be taken away from me before I get this chance?" he asked. "We can still hear the music from here."
"But, Coran…"
"Coran is busy," he stated. "Give a man at least this one request."
Allura could only nod as they waited for another song to start up, and he led her into a small waltz.
She didn't realize how much time had passed, but when a slow dance started, she was about to pull away, but found herself to continue this dance. She breathed in deeply and smiled to herself as she leaned her head on his shoulder. She closed her eyes, silently thanking that she wasn't in the ballroom at that moment. She felt at peace right now, even though her heart and mind were racing a mile a minute. She didn't know what to make of what she was doing right now, but she knew that she did not want to stop.
"It's getting late, princess."
Allura slowly opened her eyes, a little sorry, that he broke their silence. She breathed in deeply one last time, closing her eyes as she listened carefully to the song that was now nearing its end.
She then felt his hand leave her side and as they came to a stop, he lifted her chin and she could not help but stare into his dark eyes.
"I thank you for this dance…"
All she could do was nod, finding it hard to voice her thanks. She could only find herself staring into those eyes, almost losing her soul in them. She then noticed that their faces were nearing each other, and she felt the light caress of his breath on her.
"Does it have to end?" she found herself whispering. "Or is this just a dream?"
"Only if you want it to be…"
Before she could answer, she felt his lips brush against hers, and as she closed her eyes, they were taken into a deep kiss. She felt his arms encircle her, and take her into a warm embrace, and her own mind and body could only respond fully to him.
She then suddenly felt the coldness of a stone -wall against her back as the kiss deepened, realizing that they had crossed the length of the balcony to end up on the side of one of the large doors that led into the ballroom. They were now shrouded in the shadows, but she didn't even think twice about it as they shared this moment together.
The kiss came to an abrupt end as she gasped for air, her mind still racing as well as her heart. She opened her eyes, only to find herself become dizzy. She then gasped again, as warm lips touched her neck, slowly traveling up till they started to give some attention to her ear. Her breathing soon became labored as her body responded to the stimulus. She could only hold on tighter to him as he returned his attention to her and take her into another kiss. Then, she felt him grab one of her legs and lift it, only to have it rest on his hip. Even through the thin material of the dress she wore, she could feel the heat that emanated from him. It was almost too much for her to bear. Her chest heaved with every breath she was able to take as he went back and forth from kissing her or giving attention to her neck or ear.
She turned her head to the side, gritting her teeth as he raised her hands above her head, and held them against the wall, and he again kissed the length of her neck. Her brows were furrowed, her eyes closed, and she could feel herself start to shudder at every touch he gave her. Her chest heaved against the tightness of the boddess, she wore, but soon the confinement of that boddess was loosened. She opened her eyes, and through their haze she watched as his kisses traveled down her neck, where he traced a line of them over her bosom. She found herself in response to that attention, lifting her leg more and pulling him into her as he continued to loosen the front of her dress.
The hand that was holding her arms against the wall, finally released them and she could only grab at the tunic he wore as she tilted her head back, thrusting her bosom out to him. She felt the front of her dress give way, and the sudden coldness of the night air touched her now bare stomach as warm hands came to caress it. They slowly traveled from her front to her backside, sending electricity of every caress coursing through her. She felt them along her bare backside, as they reached under the top of her gown. The unmistakeable sound of a groan escaped her lips, as she tilted her head back even more. Her mind floated in and out of darkness. Twice she felt as if she were going to black out, but the constant attention from those warm hands kept her awake enough.
She was then pushed back against the wall again, her head flying back up as he grinded his hips against her, making her aware of his arousal. Her eyes glazed over as she breathed in heavily, the effect of the cold air against her now exposed abdomen and the warmth emanating from the both of them did a number on her senses. All that kept her from going absolutely crazy was that his hands were still lightly touching her backside.
She let out another groan as his lips started a trail of kisses from her abdomen, and traveled the length of her body, in between her now parted top and then end at her neck. He brought his hands down to touch her stomach, which did nothing to satisfy a need her body wanted.
She then shuddered a little as they traveled the sides of her body, playfully touching her and came to rest at the swell of her breasts. She breathed in deeply as she turned her head to meet his gaze. Before she could react, he took her into another kiss, as his hands finally came to cup her breasts, engulfing both into his warm hands. She let out a groan as her body reacted to his touch, arching herself to him as her body nearly convulsed. Her mind felt numb and her eyes glassed over. Soon, she found herself at the mercy of ecstacy.
"Princess?"
The voice was distant.
"Oh, my lord, Princess?!"
She was too weak.
She then felt something being wrapped around her, only realizing then that she was shivering.
"Come on princess, wake up."
She struggled to open her eyes. She was feeling dizzy. She then felt strong arms help her to sit up.
'Why am I on the ground?' she thought to herself.
"Princess, come on, wake up."
'Lance?' "Lance…" she managed to say, but her eyes threatened to close again.
"Yeah, its me princess," he said. "Come on, let's get you up."
Her mind was still reeling.
"What…what happened?" she asked as she found herself being helped to her feet.
"You tell me," he said as he helped her steady herself. "Just let me get you back inside, and you can tell me what happened later."
Allura could only nod, but then realize that the top of her gown was torn. She looked around and saw that she was wearing a cape of some sort, covering her. She held it tighter around herself, even though she was still dizzy, she then met Lance's gaze.
He saw the concern in her eyes and he quickly answered. "You can explain it to me later." He then looked past her into the ballroom where it was still bustling with acitivity.
"Now, how are we going to get you through there without everyone noticing how disheveled you are."
Suddenly everything that had happened hit Allura like a sledge hammer. She then gasped as she turned to the ball room.
"Where is he?"
"Allura, you can tell me what happened later, or who did this to you," he said. "But we have to get you from here , through there safely."
Lance's words went unheard as she scanned the ballroom. Before Lance could stop her, she stormed into the ballroom and headed straight for the person she was looking for. Lance followed behind her as fast as he could, but apparently not fast enough.
He watched in horror, and those around them who noticed as she approached Keith, tapped him on the shoulder and in one swift moment, punched him so hard, he landed on the ground as Anala stood above him. She then looked up from where he was nursing his jaw, to where Lance was taking Allura into his hold, as she fought against him.
"You bastard!" she yelled at him as nursed the hand she punched him with.
"What's going on here?" Coran asked as he made his way through the crowd. His eyes then widened when he took notice of Allura's condition and Keith lying on the ground as Anala knelt down to help him sit up.
"Lance, take Allura to her room," Coran quickly ordered.
"Just about to do that, Coran," Lance said as he took Allura into his hold and fought to drag her out of the ballroom.
Coran turned to where Anala was and looked down at Keith, as she wiped his lips of the blood that formed there.
"What the hell is going on?" Coran asked.
"I don't know, Coran," he said as Anala helped him to his feet "I was just dancing with Anala and she came up to me and knocked my lights out."
Coran was apparently not happy about it.
"See Dr. Gorma to take care of that," he said. "Then I want to see you, Lance and Allura after the ball is over."
"Yes sir."
Ch. 4/?
by Dani
Disclaimer: "Voltron, Defender of the Universe" and its characters are ©1984 World Events Productions, Ltd. This story is for entertainment purposes only. Original characters and storyline are property of the author, please do not use without permission.
Ratin: PG-13. Warning-Not for the timid.
Author Notes: Here is chapter four of Destiny and as the warning says, this is not for the meak or timid.
Okay, its not like there is violence or I go into gory details...nope not one bit of gore in any of my stories.
But a steamy scene is in this chapter. I had a hard time writing it, so if any of you have suggestions to make it "more" steamy, then please C & C....I want to pull it off just right, and you will know what I mean when you read it over....
~Are you sure?~
Alysson could only nod as she stared at the small view screen before her.
Anala and Alysson stood in a private conference room as they made an important call to their home planet of Vallis. On the screen before them, they were speaking to Fenrer, an elder that Alysson knew personally.
"He has the marks of the Nilan already," she stated. "And they weren't there yesterday."
~Is there any other signs besides the nosebleeds to suggest the K'Chau?~ he asked.
"Seeing that I'm not familiar with the K'Chau, I'd thought that you could come and see for yourself."
Fenrer slowly nodded. ~This is a cause for concern,~ he stated. ~But, I won't be making the trip. I'll be sending my study. I am finishing up the training of our newest members, and this a crucial time for them.~
"Your study?"
~Brendt,~ he said. ~He is the next in line should I decide to leave my post. He's very knowledgeable and should be able to help you sort out your problems.~
"I thank you, Fenrer," Alysson stated.
Alysson then noticed that there was something on his mind however. She made a silent request for Anala to leave and as soon as the door closed behind her.
"Fenrer, is there something else that I should know about?"
He somewhat shook his head. ~I'll contact you as soon as Brendt arrives,~ he stated. ~I'm going to check something before I say anything.~
"But does it concern my son?"
~No, no,~ he said. ~Actually, something you said to me 3 months ago.~
"About what?"
~About how you defeated Kelar….~
**********
Allura smiled as she ran a brush through Anala's hair and Nanny added some flowers to her top braid.
"This costume really suits you," Allura said as she came to stand before her. "I'm so glad that you could fit it."
Allura brought her over to the standing mirror and had Anala model in front of it. Her face lit up as she looked at herself in the mirror.
"Wow, this is beautiful," she stated as she modeled the dress she wore. "What is it of?"
"A character from an old Arusian legend," she said. "A princess who could enchant all those who met her, but she knew nothing of humility. So as punishment, by our 'gods', she was cursed to wear the clothes of a poor woman, and if she were to have a man fall in love with her, for who she was, and not what she was, the curse would be lifted."
"So was she able to?"
Allura smiled as she came to stand behind her and they both looked into the mirror.
"This was her wedding dress," she said with a smile.
Anala's eyes widened. "What?"
"I think she was a great, great, great, great, great grandmother of mines," she said. "I don't even know her name."
"I wish we had beautiful stories like that," Anala stated.
"Stories are born from real life experiences," Allura said as she ran her brush one last time through her hair. "Just over time, they get embellished, or little dramatic details have been added."
"So do you know the true story behind this dress?"
Allura could only laugh. "Actually, I do, but the romanticized version is much more appealing in my opinion."
"I can understand why," she said.
"You truly have the most beautiful hair I've seen," Allura said.
"This is good hair day, Allura," Anala said with a smile. "My hair is usually unmanageable."
Allura smiled as she placed her brush down on a nearby table. "It's just strange, for me," she said with a smile. "Everyone on Arus have light colored hair. My father was the only one with the darkest hair."
Anala continued to model the dress. "How strange," she said. "Is that a genetic trait among your people."
"It seems so," she said. "In fact when Sven and Keith arrived here, we were almost taken by the fact that they…."
Anala then turned to her when she fell silent. "That they both were dark haired?"
Allura could only nod as she met her gaze. There was something that had caught her attention as she stared at Anala.
"You're mother isn't dark haired," Allura stated. "Was that your father's gift to you?"
Anala bowed her head a little. "I never knew my father," she said as she walked to where Allura was standing. "He died before I was born."
"I'm sorry," Allura stated. "I didn't mean…"
Anala smiled. "I have seen pictures of him, however, and yes, he did have dark hair," she said. "Black hair to be exact."
Allura nodded. "Well, to give him credit, he definitely gave you the best traits," she said.
"Thank you," she said. "Now, if Nanny doesn't mind our chatting, we have to get you into your costume now."
"And I have the perfect one for you." Nanny said as she walked into Allura' s closet.
Allura and Anala both giggled as Nanny started to pull out several dresses.
**********
"When you said Lancelot, I was thinking of the whole knight in shining armor deal," Pidge stated as he watched as Lance put on the finishing touches to his costume.
"Well, I figured that the only way anyone is going to see me in tights, is this costume," Lance stated. "And don't get any hair-brained ideas about taking pictures. I'll be sure to show your grandkids the nude baby pics we found of you."
"You wouldn't dare."
Lance let out a laugh as he sheathed his plastic sword into its holder that was attached to his waist.
"I have nude baby pics of everyone on this team," Lance said. He then smiled to himself. "Everyone of them saved for a special occasion."
"You mean blackmail."
"Well, if you be good, I will let you have copies," he said as he fastened a cape around his shoulders. "Especially of the ones of Keith."
"Why?"
"He's the only one with full frontal nudity in his pics."
"What?"
Lanced laughed to himself as he put on a hat. "Yeah, his father gave them to me when we were kids," he said.
"I'll be sure to take you up on that offer, later," Pidge said with a smile.
"Well, lets get going and see if our esteemed captain is ready."
"Do you even know what he is wearing?"
"Nope, but Hunk would be the talk of this evening," he said. "I don't know how he is going to pull of Conan…."
Pidge laughed. "Lets take a bet and see how long it will take Nanny to notice and do something about it."
"You're on."
**********
Anala and Allura entered the ballroom together and was greeted by Lance and Coran. Allura took Coran's offered hand as Lance took Anala's. Allura could only smile as she was then lead off by Lance to the dance floor.
"Glad you both could make it," Coran stated as he escorted her. "Took you both long enough."
"Nanny was fussing over how I should wear my hair," Allura said with a smile. "Is everyone here?"
"Almost," he said. "A couple of mayors are on their way. Keith is doing the hourly check on the status of our security."
Allura nodded as she scanned the dance floor. She smiled catching her friend among the dancing people. Hunk was definitely the catch of the evening for some gawking women, and Anala and Lance were dancing in the middle of the room. She then spied Xue and Alysson off to one side, having a conversation with one of the diplomats they had invited.
"Well, it seems we got to pull this off without much problems," she said.
"And the requests start pouring in," Coran added as a young man approached them.
"Princess, would you like to join me for a dance?"
Allura smiled to her court advisor, then accepted the offer.
**********
"Hey, you can't be hogging her all to yourself."
Anala and Lance both stopped their dancing as Keith came up to them. He was dressed in all white, of which Anala quickly recognized. She gave him a scrutiny that was not noticed by Lance, however.He then gave a deep bow to Anala and offered his hand to her.
"I would be honored if you could join me for a dance, my queen," he said.
Anala smiled as she offered her hand.
"I gladly accept your offer," she said with a smile. She then gave Lance a wink as Keith took her out onto the dance floor.
"Seems like you both are getting along," he said once they were out of ear shot.
"I can see why you both are great friends," she said. "I agree, he is totally an opposite of you. Nice choice of costume by the way. Did mom give that to you?"
"Yeah," he said. "Exactly what is it?"
She smiled to herself. "Actually it's a ceremonial outfit," she stated. "Wedding ceremonial."
"Wedding?" he asked. "No wonder she was a bit coy as to what it was of."
"She's sneaky, that's for sure."
He smiled. "So, what does he think about all of this?"
"I think he's still trying to comprehend it," she said. "But things have a way of working themselves out."
The song they were dancing to turned to a slow dance. Anala let out a sigh as she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Do you think it wrong of me to try?"
"To do what you want and think is right?" he asked.
"I just don't want him to think that he has to…"
"Anala, the only thing that matters right now is the feelings you both share for each other," he said. "It might not be 'love' right now, but there is definitely something there between you both, that you both agree that is there."
She silently laughed to herself. "Just be sure to knock me over the head if I start to do stupid things," she said.
"No, I'll hit Lance over the head if you start doing stupid things, because I know he is the reason behind you doing stupid things."
All she could do was laugh.
**********
Allura let out her breath as she opened the doors to the ballroom and stepped out onto the balcony outside. She closed them behind her, leaving them slightly open so she could still hear the music.
She walked over to a nearby stone bench where she promptly seated herself down and pulled off her heels. She let out a contented sigh as she massaged her one foot.
"I am never going to wear these stupid things again."
"I always thought heels were a stupid invention."
Allura let out a gasp, not realizing that she wasn't alone. She looked around and watched as a figured emerged from the shadows of one corner of the balcony. She then smiled as she picked up her heels and placed them on the bench next to her.
"Well, they had their glamour side to them when they were created," she said. "But they aren't shoes I wear all the time." She then looked up and noticed the detailed costume he wore. A pants type outfit with a tunic made of black feathers. Large black wings adorned them that blended well to the costume. "Nice costume by the way. Did Anala have help in making that for you?"
Keith only smiled as he approached her. "No, actually it was her mother," he said.
She smiled as he kneeled before her.
"May I?"
She could only stare at him as he took one of her legs into his hands. At that moment, she felt her heart start to race at his gentle touch, as his fingers glided down her calves to her feet. She then watched as he massaged her right foot.
"Better?" he asked.
"Yes," she said almost breathlessly. "I mean, yes." She said again. "I didn't think that the art of masseuse was required among the cadets at the academy."
He smiled. "One of many talents I have," he said. "Knowing it does help you in the long run,"
"Oh?" she asked.
He smiled as he met her gaze. "You never know who will need a massage, or when."
Allura bit her lower lip as he moved from her right foot and started to work on her left, almost sorry to have the warmth of his hands leave it.
"And just who did you think would need massages?" she asked.
"Maybe princesses with sore feet?"
She flushed a little, and was glad that the light that illuminated the balcony was minimal.
v "There," he said as he released her left foot. He then stood before her and offered both his hands to her. "Let's see how sore they are now."
Allura looked up to him then placed her hands into his. He then pulled her up from the bench. Though, she then found her legs give way, and she fell against him in the attempt.
She held her breath in that moment as strong arms came around her, to hold her steady, and on her feet. To her it felt as if an eternity passed as she stood there, leaning against him. She slowly opened her eyes, noticing that she was in that tight embrace, but something was covering her.
She then found her strength again as she pushed herself up. She then met his gaze as he let go of her, but still kept a hold on her hands. She then noticed that the wings of the costume were now around the both of them.
"I'm sorry," she stammered as she brushed the locks of her hair from her face.
"It's alright, princess," he said with a smile. "Anytime you need support…."
She could only stare at him. Before she could answer, he took one of her hands that he held and placed her right on his left shoulder and the other he held to his chest.
"Now, before you get stolen away by another dance partner, you owe me a dance."
"Shouldn't we go inside?" she asked.
"And have you be taken away from me before I get this chance?" he asked. "We can still hear the music from here."
"But, Coran…"
"Coran is busy," he stated. "Give a man at least this one request."
Allura could only nod as they waited for another song to start up, and he led her into a small waltz.
She didn't realize how much time had passed, but when a slow dance started, she was about to pull away, but found herself to continue this dance. She breathed in deeply and smiled to herself as she leaned her head on his shoulder. She closed her eyes, silently thanking that she wasn't in the ballroom at that moment. She felt at peace right now, even though her heart and mind were racing a mile a minute. She didn't know what to make of what she was doing right now, but she knew that she did not want to stop.
"It's getting late, princess."
Allura slowly opened her eyes, a little sorry, that he broke their silence. She breathed in deeply one last time, closing her eyes as she listened carefully to the song that was now nearing its end.
She then felt his hand leave her side and as they came to a stop, he lifted her chin and she could not help but stare into his dark eyes.
"I thank you for this dance…"
All she could do was nod, finding it hard to voice her thanks. She could only find herself staring into those eyes, almost losing her soul in them. She then noticed that their faces were nearing each other, and she felt the light caress of his breath on her.
"Does it have to end?" she found herself whispering. "Or is this just a dream?"
"Only if you want it to be…"
Before she could answer, she felt his lips brush against hers, and as she closed her eyes, they were taken into a deep kiss. She felt his arms encircle her, and take her into a warm embrace, and her own mind and body could only respond fully to him.
She then suddenly felt the coldness of a stone -wall against her back as the kiss deepened, realizing that they had crossed the length of the balcony to end up on the side of one of the large doors that led into the ballroom. They were now shrouded in the shadows, but she didn't even think twice about it as they shared this moment together.
The kiss came to an abrupt end as she gasped for air, her mind still racing as well as her heart. She opened her eyes, only to find herself become dizzy. She then gasped again, as warm lips touched her neck, slowly traveling up till they started to give some attention to her ear. Her breathing soon became labored as her body responded to the stimulus. She could only hold on tighter to him as he returned his attention to her and take her into another kiss. Then, she felt him grab one of her legs and lift it, only to have it rest on his hip. Even through the thin material of the dress she wore, she could feel the heat that emanated from him. It was almost too much for her to bear. Her chest heaved with every breath she was able to take as he went back and forth from kissing her or giving attention to her neck or ear.
She turned her head to the side, gritting her teeth as he raised her hands above her head, and held them against the wall, and he again kissed the length of her neck. Her brows were furrowed, her eyes closed, and she could feel herself start to shudder at every touch he gave her. Her chest heaved against the tightness of the boddess, she wore, but soon the confinement of that boddess was loosened. She opened her eyes, and through their haze she watched as his kisses traveled down her neck, where he traced a line of them over her bosom. She found herself in response to that attention, lifting her leg more and pulling him into her as he continued to loosen the front of her dress.
The hand that was holding her arms against the wall, finally released them and she could only grab at the tunic he wore as she tilted her head back, thrusting her bosom out to him. She felt the front of her dress give way, and the sudden coldness of the night air touched her now bare stomach as warm hands came to caress it. They slowly traveled from her front to her backside, sending electricity of every caress coursing through her. She felt them along her bare backside, as they reached under the top of her gown. The unmistakeable sound of a groan escaped her lips, as she tilted her head back even more. Her mind floated in and out of darkness. Twice she felt as if she were going to black out, but the constant attention from those warm hands kept her awake enough.
She was then pushed back against the wall again, her head flying back up as he grinded his hips against her, making her aware of his arousal. Her eyes glazed over as she breathed in heavily, the effect of the cold air against her now exposed abdomen and the warmth emanating from the both of them did a number on her senses. All that kept her from going absolutely crazy was that his hands were still lightly touching her backside.
She let out another groan as his lips started a trail of kisses from her abdomen, and traveled the length of her body, in between her now parted top and then end at her neck. He brought his hands down to touch her stomach, which did nothing to satisfy a need her body wanted.
She then shuddered a little as they traveled the sides of her body, playfully touching her and came to rest at the swell of her breasts. She breathed in deeply as she turned her head to meet his gaze. Before she could react, he took her into another kiss, as his hands finally came to cup her breasts, engulfing both into his warm hands. She let out a groan as her body reacted to his touch, arching herself to him as her body nearly convulsed. Her mind felt numb and her eyes glassed over. Soon, she found herself at the mercy of ecstacy.
"Princess?"
The voice was distant.
"Oh, my lord, Princess?!"
She was too weak.
She then felt something being wrapped around her, only realizing then that she was shivering.
"Come on princess, wake up."
She struggled to open her eyes. She was feeling dizzy. She then felt strong arms help her to sit up.
'Why am I on the ground?' she thought to herself.
"Princess, come on, wake up."
'Lance?' "Lance…" she managed to say, but her eyes threatened to close again.
"Yeah, its me princess," he said. "Come on, let's get you up."
Her mind was still reeling.
"What…what happened?" she asked as she found herself being helped to her feet.
"You tell me," he said as he helped her steady herself. "Just let me get you back inside, and you can tell me what happened later."
Allura could only nod, but then realize that the top of her gown was torn. She looked around and saw that she was wearing a cape of some sort, covering her. She held it tighter around herself, even though she was still dizzy, she then met Lance's gaze.
He saw the concern in her eyes and he quickly answered. "You can explain it to me later." He then looked past her into the ballroom where it was still bustling with acitivity.
"Now, how are we going to get you through there without everyone noticing how disheveled you are."
Suddenly everything that had happened hit Allura like a sledge hammer. She then gasped as she turned to the ball room.
"Where is he?"
"Allura, you can tell me what happened later, or who did this to you," he said. "But we have to get you from here , through there safely."
Lance's words went unheard as she scanned the ballroom. Before Lance could stop her, she stormed into the ballroom and headed straight for the person she was looking for. Lance followed behind her as fast as he could, but apparently not fast enough.
He watched in horror, and those around them who noticed as she approached Keith, tapped him on the shoulder and in one swift moment, punched him so hard, he landed on the ground as Anala stood above him. She then looked up from where he was nursing his jaw, to where Lance was taking Allura into his hold, as she fought against him.
"You bastard!" she yelled at him as nursed the hand she punched him with.
"What's going on here?" Coran asked as he made his way through the crowd. His eyes then widened when he took notice of Allura's condition and Keith lying on the ground as Anala knelt down to help him sit up.
"Lance, take Allura to her room," Coran quickly ordered.
"Just about to do that, Coran," Lance said as he took Allura into his hold and fought to drag her out of the ballroom.
Coran turned to where Anala was and looked down at Keith, as she wiped his lips of the blood that formed there.
"What the hell is going on?" Coran asked.
"I don't know, Coran," he said as Anala helped him to his feet "I was just dancing with Anala and she came up to me and knocked my lights out."
Coran was apparently not happy about it.
"See Dr. Gorma to take care of that," he said. "Then I want to see you, Lance and Allura after the ball is over."
"Yes sir."