A Gunsmith Cats 'Fic
Volume3; Part 3
By; Talis13
Standard Disclaimer- Still not mine.
Later that evening, Rally and Misty were shown to a room and Mary Anne once again helped them to get ready for the night. She left with a smile once more. Misty looked from her bed across to where Rally looked up at the ceiling. "What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking about everything that's happened within today. Utterly amazing."
"I would guess so from your point of view. Mine too though; I thought I was busted earlier today!"
Rally laughed. "Yes, well, you deserved it! You knew who Bean was the whole time, didn't you?"
Misty grinned. "Well, yeah. If I told you who he was, would you have went back to find him? Or even talk to him again?"
"Probably not. Too far out of my reach."
"And now look at you! Soon to be a princess! A married princess might I add." Misty looked up. "Children eventually I would guess. Need a heir to the thrown and all that."
"MISTY!!!"
Misty laughed. "Well, its true you know."
"Still!!"
Both girls lay quietly after Misty's laughter died back down. The night went quickly in a very comfortable sleep for both girls. Early the next morning, both girls were awakened by Mary Anne and helped to change into dresses. Misty had another green gown with gold trim and tight sleeves. Rally had a royal red gown with silver trim and open sleeves. They attended breakfast after being shown into the hall of last night by another guard. Both took the respective places they had before and Rally glanced up at Bean who was smiling at her once more. Misty giggled. "You two are so cute!"
Both had the courtesy to blush. Breakfast was fairly uneventful except for Misty making silly remarks about the cute couple. After breakfast, Misty was shown to where her new room near Rally's was to be. And Rally was lead around the royal gardens by Bean. He gently held her hand as they walked past numerous varieties of flowers. She stopped at one. "Oh my! What's this called?"
He looked at it. "A rose I think."
"Its very pretty."
He nodded. "Would you like one?"
"Oh no, keep it on the vine; it will live longer that way and be pretty for everyone." They continued down the paths and she stopped again. "Do you know what this one is called?" she pointed a silky pale purple flower.
"A lily I believe is what my mother said."
"Its so pretty." She whispered as she ran her fingers over the silk petals. She smelled it; it wasn't heavily scented like the rose. This one was very light and pleasant. She smiled as she opened her eyes. He glanced down at her with a smile.
His fingers curled around her own. "Would you like to go through the castle?"
"Can we finish going through the garden first? Its so pretty here; I've never seen so many flowers before in my whole life!" she breathed.
"Of course."
Up in one of the high windows, Misty sat looking out with a smile at the happy couple. They were perfect together, she knew. And she herself would get to be a maid of honor at a royal wedding; imagine her own surprise. She stood from the balcony seat and walked into the halls, bound for the kitchens and lunch.
Back out in the garden, as they neared the end of the gardens, Rally looked at the high walls surrounding the grounds. "Do you ever wish to get away from all of this?"
"Sometimes. Okay, a lot of the time, which is why I'm out in the city as much as in the palace." He rolled his eyes. "What brought that up?"
"Just looking at those high walls." She replied thoughtfully. "Well, are you hungry? I know I am."
He laughed. "Not a problem. Let's go and get lunch."
They walked hand in hand back to the kitchens that were bustling to get things prepared for the evening meal as well as setting things out for everybody to eat midday. There was a lot of bowing as Bean made his way into the kitchen. He rolled his eyes and Rally laughed at his inability to understand why it was happening. They stopped and got bread and fruit and then walked down the main hall. He led her into an adjoining room; it was huge. This was where the ball was to be held tomorrow. There was still preparations taking place, but Bean pulled her to a quiet corner and they sat to eat. Rally looked up and saw her friend Misty in the hall. She was about to call out when she noticed Misty was not alone. She giggled and noticed that Misty was talking to a young man helping to put together a large display decoration.
Bean looked over. "What?"
Rally smiled and nodded her head towards Misty. "My friend is already getting friendly with that poor guy. I pity his soul; she's a wildcat when she gets an idea into her head."
"Then she's met her match." He replied before turning back to her.
"How so?" Rally asked, intrigued.
Bean nodded towards the young man. "He's got the ladies always falling all over themselves to get with him."
Rally arched an eyebrow. "At least we know they're perfect for each other." She heard Bean chuckle and then she continued. "So, what do you think of all of this?"
"All of what?"
"All of this," she waved an arm around the room. "This is all for you; how do you feel about it?"
He looked thoughtfully around the room. And sat back, supported by one hand. "I don't know yet. Its strange, to say the least, but it hasn't set in. So, I don't really know yet, you know? I do know however, that I am very happy you will be there with me."
Rally looked up with a smile and a light blush. "I'm happy to be there for you Bean." She turned to her bread before turning back. "Wait! There's still something I don't know about you!!"
He arched an eyebrow. "What might that be?"
She got a devilish look. "Your real name."
Bean ground his teeth; of course she would ask! That's natural. "I'm not at liberty to say." That would do.
"That's not going to do Bean." Rally replied, arms crossed over her chest. "Of course, I could just get the information from your mother."
He visibly cringed; he would never live that down. Rally smiled once more. "You would never live it down!"
"Are you reading my mind?" he asked, sitting up once more.
"Nope! Maybe great minds just think alike!" She replied as he kissed the back of her hand.
"Maybe." He gave a sigh of relief; that wasn't too hard.
"Um, you never answered my question." She pointed out with a sly smile.
He rolled his eyes and helped her up. "Well, I don't use it much, because I don't like it all that well."
"What? Are you afraid I'll laugh?! Come on, I thought you would trust me more than that!" she chided as she squeezed his hand.
He shrugged; she had a point. "Fine."
"Fine."
There was silence. Rally rolled her eyes. "Any day now Bean."
He sighed. "Okay. Well, my mother apparently was in rare form when she was pregnant, because she decided to name me Blake."
"What's wrong with that?" Rally looked up thoughtfully. "Other than the fact it means 'fair haired'?"
Bean rolled his eyes. "Yes, other than that. So, there you go."
"Thank you Blake, that wasn't so hard was it?" Rally asked, eyes smiling.
"Not at all Irene." Bean replied, looking at her.
"Funny." Rally stated. "How about a deal?"
"What kind of deal?"
"I don't call you Blake, you don't call me Irene."
Bean smiled. "Sounds good to me."
"I thought you'd see it my way."
They were both stopped in the hall. Katherine looked up disapprovingly. "You two are acting rather childish." She pointed at Bean. "YOU are the crown prince and she is to become a princess! Such behavior shall never do."
Both looked down tuning slightly red in the face. Katherine smiled and then walked around them. "Enjoy it while you can."
Both watched as she passed. Rally grabbed his hand tighter and whispered a silent 'thank you'. Bean looked over. "Well, that was interesting. And close."
Rally nodded and they continued their grand tour of the palace. That evening, Mary Anne once again helped Misty and Rally, although they were in separate rooms this time. Rally looked thoughtfully at the wall that had a large glass and silver mirror on it. She sighed; tomorrow would be a big day. She hoped to be ready for it; being presented in front of the entire kingdom sounded frightening; the only solace was Becky's face. Rally smiled and drifted off to sleep.
The next morning, Rally was up a little later than the others. She rubbed her eyes and looked into Mary Anne's large brown eyes. "Good morning miss Rally!" she chirped.
Rally smiled. "Good morning Mary Anne. What time is it?"
"Around nine thirty." She replied, opening the closet.
"Oh my! I overslept!!" Rally hopped up and ran to the closet.
Mary Anne pushed her into a seat with a smile. "Calm down miss! The queen said to let you sleep! You haven't missed anything!"
"Besides breakfast." Rally mumbled.
Mary Anne laughed a tinkling laugh. "Oh, don't be silly! I can run and get you something!" she turned with a grin. "Or I can get the prince to take breakfast with you as he wasn't up either last I heard."
Rally smiled. "That'd be nice, thank you."
Mary Anne nodded and then dug around in the vast closet before pulling out a modest red dress with silver trim. She laid this on the bed before pulling Rally into the washroom and helping her run a bath. While Rally took a bath, Mary Anne went down the halls, and stopped in front of Bean's room. She looked at the guard. "Morning sir!"
"Good morning miss. What can I do for you?"
"I'm here to wake up the prince!" she smiled.
He nodded and opened the door. "That's fine, but don't be long."
She nodded and stepped into the dark room; the shades were still pulled. She strode over and purposefully pulled them away, drowning the room in sunlight. Bean turned over and buried his head under a pillow. "Ugh."
Mary Anne giggled. "That's lovely! No wonder miss Rally is so taken with you!"
He looked out from under the pillow as Mary Anne looked in with a smile. "Good morning!"
"Um, good morning?" he asked; or stated, she couldn't quite tell.
Looking on with a smile that told she knew something he didn't Mary Anne pulled the pillow away with a flourish. "Miss Rally just got up and hasn't had breakfast yet! She'd like to eat with you if that's not too much trouble!"
"Of course its not any trouble." He grumbled, hands over his eyes trying to keep out the light.
Mary Anne giggled again. "Oh, get up! Its all ready after nine thirty."
"And your point?" he asked, hands still over his eyes.
She sighed. "Fine! Sleep away. I'll just tell miss Rally that you didn't want breakfast with her." She started back out the door.
"Wait, wait, wait!!" he called, sitting up and squinting. "I'm up. I'm up! Sort of. I'll get ready then."
She nodded happily and went to the closet to pull out clothes and set them in the washroom. She pulled out black slacks and a red vest/tunic with a white shirt. Setting them in the washroom and then walking back into his room, Mary Anne saw that he was lying back on the bed again. She rolled her eyes. "GET UP!!"
He frowned and growled at her, but grudgingly sat up and tripped his way to the washroom. Mary Anne smiled and exited the room. She walked lightly back down the halls into Rally's room. Inside, Rally was getting into her robe and turned with a squeak when Mary Anne entered. "Sorry!" she chirped to Rally.
"Goodness! You startled me!" Rally replied.
Mary Anne smiled and helped her with her clothes. She also found another necklace as well. "Well, the prince will probably be a bit; he's not exactly a morning person."
"In other words, he's a 'wake me about noon' person?"
"Pretty much."
Rally laughed as the necklace was hung around her neck. She stopped, thoughtfully twirling the drop of diamond between her fingers. "Mary Anne?"
"Yes?"
Rally was hesitant a moment. "What shall I expect tonight?"
Mary Anne smiled and then started brushing Rally's hair. "It will be very extravagant and bright. A very large part of the kingdom will be there. That's why the actual ceremony will be outside; so everyone that comes can see. I know one year they had one of the prince's birthday celebrations outside. It absolutely poured after awhile; but he didn't mind. I think he liked it better actually."
Giggling, Rally calmed down some. "I would guess so. He strikes me as the outdoors type."
"Excellent guess." Mary Anne replied as she finished and set the brush down. "But listen. Tonight will be wonderful!! Do not worry, you will love it!"
Rally nodded and they both walked out the door and down to one of the dining halls. Mary Anne seated Rally and then went to the kitchen to prepare something for them to eat. She passed one of the other serving girls and had her run upstairs and direct the prince to the right room. Piling on lots of good food ad drinks, Mary Anne walked heavily into the room. Rally sat up. "Would you like some help?!"
"No, that's alright." She replied, smiling. She set the tray down on the table. "And the prince should be here shortly; I sent one of the other girls after him; make sure he didn't change his mind about sleeping." She rolled her eyes.
Rally's tinkling laughed came out like music in the large room. Both girls turned at the open door. Bean looked in. "I did NOT change my mind about sleeping."
Both girls giggled as they walked in and Bean took a seat next to Rally. Mary Anne squeezed Rally's hand comfortingly and then started back out the door with the other girl. "Call if you need anything!"
Bean nodded and then looked over at Rally with a smile. "Did you sleep well?"
"Very, thank you." She replied, grabbing a piece of apple and winking.
He nodded and began eating as well; both rather got into their food.
May dropped the pencil again. "Argh!!"
Rally called. "Uh, May?"
"Yes?" came back sweetly.
"Is there a problem?"
"Nah. Just trying to figure out how to end this story. That's all." May replied, cracking her knuckles.
"Ah. Writer's block?"
"Kind of. I know how I want to end it, but not how I want to get it there, you know?"
"Kind of. I'm sure you'll think of some- ooohhh. Pretty car!"
May looked up questioningly. "What are you doing?"
"Watching SpeedVision. This show is on where they're finishing up a car restoration."
"Ah." May looked up at the door and then back at her paper. She grabbed the pencil and began to tap out the story's ending scene.
After finishing breakfast, both were ushered out and into separate rooms to prepare for the ball this evening. Mary Anne had grabbed Misty and brought her in to help prepare Rally. Mary Anne had run to another room to get something, so Misty sat next to Rally. "So. What do you think so far?"
"I'm not sure. Its happened so quick, you know?"
Misty nodded. "Mmhm. So, do you know what Mary Anne's getting?"
"Not really. She mumbled something about a dress, but nothing specific. You are going to the ball tonight, right?"
"Yep! I met this really nice guy today-"
"In the ball room?"
"Yes. How did you know?"
"Well-" Rally was interrupted by Mary Anne coming back in through the door once again. She immediately began getting Rally cleaned up for her debut. Misty was helping as well; mostly locating jewelry and items that Mary Anne needed. About an hour later, there was a knock at the door and Misty let in two girls that were carrying a covered garment between them. Misty peeked under the cover and smiled broadly. "Oooh. Gorgeous!"
Mary Anne nodded and sent the girls back out of the room. She pulled Rally's gown from the parcel. Her chin dropped; it was a royal purple gown. It was heavily beaded across the chest and over the shoulders; also at the wrists on the sleeves that came to a point. The skirt flared out slightly, open at the front with silver underneath that matched the silver threadwork on the rest of the dress. It took them a few minutes, but Rally got into the dress and twirled. "Oh my."
Smiling, Mary Anne looked up again with a nod. "You look lovely." She pulled out a pair of slippers with glass heels. "Put these on."
Rally slipped on the shoes. She sat quietly as Misty snapped the silver chain around her neck. Mary Anne turned to Misty. "Now you must get ready! Have Bethany help you!"
Misty nodded after winking at Rally and exited the room. "The prince will fall all over himself."
Rally blushed. "I do wish to make a good impression."
"You will make a striking impression." Mary Anne grabbed Rally's hand and pulled her up. "Come! Its time!"
They walked out the bedroom door and into the bustling halls. Courtiers walked by, looking at Rally. She felt somewhat self-conscious, even though she was a beautiful site in the purple gown. Following silently, Rally hoped to make a good impression. She glanced out a stairwell window into the open court; there were so many people out there! What would she do?! Decorations fluttered in the breeze as people danced in time to the music playing softly around them, as the king and queen were presented. Then the view was gone and she was walking down the stairwell once again. It was a short walk, thank goodness. She heard trumpets again and heard Bean's introduction amid the people; she smiled at 'Blake'.
Suddenly, Rally was at the door to the open court and she paused, looking at it. Going through the door meant that things would forever be different. No more childish ways, she had to act like an adult. But, with that, came being respected for who she was; no longer just an employee, no longer under the tyrannical rule of her stepmother. She had her best friend Misty and would try and save May from a dire fate. She had the queen's support; as well as the prince's. Not to mention, the prince himself. Rally blushed, smiled and walked confidently through the door. Change was good after all.
The air stilled as people turned to see who emerged from the castle. Yet, Rally did not waver; she strode purposefully forward, ready to meet a new challenge. The queen nodded thoughtfully with a smile at the young woman approaching them without fear, reminiscent of her own presentation to her husband. Bean strode down the short stairwell from the thrones and grabbed Rally's hand, kissing the back of it. "You look."
"Out of place?" Rally offered helpfully.
He looked down with a surprise. "No. You look perfect."
Rally blushed. "Thank you." She glanced at his own attire: deep red with gold trimmed tunic, with gold links across the chest. Light slacks and black boots with black hair slicked back. "You don't look too bad yourself." She arched an eyebrow.
He nodded with a grin and they started to dance. As he twirled her around the floor, Rally's smile lit up a light blush on her cheeks. Suddenly she was tugged from his grasp and fell to the ground. She looked back, shocked that someone would go out of his or her way to hurt her. Ankle throbbing, she slowly stood up, stumbling just a bit. She faced Becky. "You little brat!" she screeched, pointing at Rally. "What are you doing here?! You and that little thief Misty! I saw her as we entered! Answer me this instant!!"
Rally's eyelids lowered subtly. She answered in a calm, mature tone. "I am here because I was invited. Otherwise, it is not of your concern."
Becky was furious. Balling up a fist, she swung at Rally, who just ducked out of the way, barely missing the swings, but not expounding a lot of energy. Becky stopped when Bean stood between she and Rally. She fell to the floor in a bow. "Your highness. This little girl has deceived you! She is not even of royal blood!"
He scowled down at her, fist clenched. He felt Rally touch his arm, in a way to calm him down some; it worked. He turned towards her. "This would be- "
"Becky." She nodded and glanced at Misty who had appeared out of nowhere.
Becky looked up. "You have been de-"
"I have been done no such way." He replied gruffly, cutting her off. "I think this young woman is one of the most honest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, so save your lies."
Guards came down, awaiting his order. He turned towards one. "Take her to a cell." The guard nodded and did as asked. She was fighting the whole way, screaming curses at both Rally and Misty. Rally had tears in her eyes.
He grabbed her hand and pulled her into a hug. "Please tell me what's wrong."
"I don't know what I did to deserve her hatred. That's all. She is the only mother I have ever known; and she was never really that to me."
He held her closer as she cried. The queen approached the small huddle. She placed a hand on Rally's shaking shoulder. "My dear. I would love to treat you as my daughter."
Rally turned and embraced the queen who hugged her tightly. "Thank you. Thank you so very much." Came muffled from sniffles.
Misty tentatively began to approach when there was a hand on her shoulder. She looked back and down into May's eyes. "I want to apologize. To both of you for my mother. Neither of you ever deserved the way she treated you. Please accept my apologies for her behavior." May bowed her head.
Both Misty and Rally ran and hugged her. She returned the embrace. "Thank you May." Rally whispered.
The queen looked on with a small smile as her son did the same. He walked over and took Rally's hand; she turned with a smile and glittering eyes. He nodded to the queen who then took her place back on the dais, signaling the two up to the front. The king rose calling for attention. Silence rose among the people as Bean helped Rally to the front with a smile. Stepping forward, the king did his presentation. "I would like to welcome you all to this interesting and joyous occasion. Tonight we shall present the crown prince and his choice of a bride. So, may I present Crown Prince Blake Bandit and his engagement to Irene Vincent."
Both cringed at the use of their first names, but managed to turn smiles towards both the king and queen and then to the people present amid loud cheering. Loudest seemed to be coming from May and Misty in the front. Bean led Rally down to the floor and began to turn her around to the music; he was more graceful than his size would have denoted. Rally smiled, looking into chocolate eyes, feeling as if she were floating as they moved across the floor. Forever twirling in his arms.
They were married two weeks later, on a beautiful spring day. The kingdom was in attendance and Misty as well as May got to be in the wedding. Misty however had maid of honor. A large portion of that was due to May wanting to be nearer to the courier Ken; she decided he was a keeper. As the ceremony came to an end, Rally was twirled with a giddy laugh, forever in his arms.
And they lived happily ever after.
May dropped her pencil with a cheer. "Woo Hoo!! I am FINISHED!!! Yeah!"
Rally came into the kitchen, empty soda can in hand. "So, you act happy with your work May."
"I am! I've worked hard on it and it was really fun! I figure I might as well be proud of what I do, you know."
"Makes sense to me. May I read it?" Rally asked as she stepped to the table.
"Sure. Yell for me when you get done." May stated as she left the kitchen to watch television for awhile.
A while later, Rally walked into the living room giggling. "I love it May! Happily ever after mush! It was great! And I get my prince charming after all."
"You may not know it, but you've got him already." May looked up with a smile.
"Its nice to get reaffirmation though." Rally sighed and then handed the papers back with a smile. "This is good. You'll have to let Bean read this. You portrayed him really romantically in this thing; he should be flattered."
"Yeah, I hope." May giggled with a smile. "Don't you like these stories with happy endings?"
Rally turned with a grin. "Yeah. After all, how often do people get to live happily ever after?"
1 The Actual End. ^^
Author's notes- Hey. Glad you made it this far. ^^;; This got a little out of hand. You know what I was aiming for? A one-part story with about ten or fifteen pages typed. What do I get? A colossal thing spanning twenty-eight pages. Sigh. Oh well. Can't win them all. So, what did you think? Email me and let me know. I'm heading in a certain direction with these writings. I have my timeline plotted out and I'm sticking to it fairly well actually. Interested in what's happening next? Great, email me some comments. ^^ Volume 4 is next!
Volume3; Part 3
By; Talis13
Standard Disclaimer- Still not mine.
Later that evening, Rally and Misty were shown to a room and Mary Anne once again helped them to get ready for the night. She left with a smile once more. Misty looked from her bed across to where Rally looked up at the ceiling. "What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking about everything that's happened within today. Utterly amazing."
"I would guess so from your point of view. Mine too though; I thought I was busted earlier today!"
Rally laughed. "Yes, well, you deserved it! You knew who Bean was the whole time, didn't you?"
Misty grinned. "Well, yeah. If I told you who he was, would you have went back to find him? Or even talk to him again?"
"Probably not. Too far out of my reach."
"And now look at you! Soon to be a princess! A married princess might I add." Misty looked up. "Children eventually I would guess. Need a heir to the thrown and all that."
"MISTY!!!"
Misty laughed. "Well, its true you know."
"Still!!"
Both girls lay quietly after Misty's laughter died back down. The night went quickly in a very comfortable sleep for both girls. Early the next morning, both girls were awakened by Mary Anne and helped to change into dresses. Misty had another green gown with gold trim and tight sleeves. Rally had a royal red gown with silver trim and open sleeves. They attended breakfast after being shown into the hall of last night by another guard. Both took the respective places they had before and Rally glanced up at Bean who was smiling at her once more. Misty giggled. "You two are so cute!"
Both had the courtesy to blush. Breakfast was fairly uneventful except for Misty making silly remarks about the cute couple. After breakfast, Misty was shown to where her new room near Rally's was to be. And Rally was lead around the royal gardens by Bean. He gently held her hand as they walked past numerous varieties of flowers. She stopped at one. "Oh my! What's this called?"
He looked at it. "A rose I think."
"Its very pretty."
He nodded. "Would you like one?"
"Oh no, keep it on the vine; it will live longer that way and be pretty for everyone." They continued down the paths and she stopped again. "Do you know what this one is called?" she pointed a silky pale purple flower.
"A lily I believe is what my mother said."
"Its so pretty." She whispered as she ran her fingers over the silk petals. She smelled it; it wasn't heavily scented like the rose. This one was very light and pleasant. She smiled as she opened her eyes. He glanced down at her with a smile.
His fingers curled around her own. "Would you like to go through the castle?"
"Can we finish going through the garden first? Its so pretty here; I've never seen so many flowers before in my whole life!" she breathed.
"Of course."
Up in one of the high windows, Misty sat looking out with a smile at the happy couple. They were perfect together, she knew. And she herself would get to be a maid of honor at a royal wedding; imagine her own surprise. She stood from the balcony seat and walked into the halls, bound for the kitchens and lunch.
Back out in the garden, as they neared the end of the gardens, Rally looked at the high walls surrounding the grounds. "Do you ever wish to get away from all of this?"
"Sometimes. Okay, a lot of the time, which is why I'm out in the city as much as in the palace." He rolled his eyes. "What brought that up?"
"Just looking at those high walls." She replied thoughtfully. "Well, are you hungry? I know I am."
He laughed. "Not a problem. Let's go and get lunch."
They walked hand in hand back to the kitchens that were bustling to get things prepared for the evening meal as well as setting things out for everybody to eat midday. There was a lot of bowing as Bean made his way into the kitchen. He rolled his eyes and Rally laughed at his inability to understand why it was happening. They stopped and got bread and fruit and then walked down the main hall. He led her into an adjoining room; it was huge. This was where the ball was to be held tomorrow. There was still preparations taking place, but Bean pulled her to a quiet corner and they sat to eat. Rally looked up and saw her friend Misty in the hall. She was about to call out when she noticed Misty was not alone. She giggled and noticed that Misty was talking to a young man helping to put together a large display decoration.
Bean looked over. "What?"
Rally smiled and nodded her head towards Misty. "My friend is already getting friendly with that poor guy. I pity his soul; she's a wildcat when she gets an idea into her head."
"Then she's met her match." He replied before turning back to her.
"How so?" Rally asked, intrigued.
Bean nodded towards the young man. "He's got the ladies always falling all over themselves to get with him."
Rally arched an eyebrow. "At least we know they're perfect for each other." She heard Bean chuckle and then she continued. "So, what do you think of all of this?"
"All of what?"
"All of this," she waved an arm around the room. "This is all for you; how do you feel about it?"
He looked thoughtfully around the room. And sat back, supported by one hand. "I don't know yet. Its strange, to say the least, but it hasn't set in. So, I don't really know yet, you know? I do know however, that I am very happy you will be there with me."
Rally looked up with a smile and a light blush. "I'm happy to be there for you Bean." She turned to her bread before turning back. "Wait! There's still something I don't know about you!!"
He arched an eyebrow. "What might that be?"
She got a devilish look. "Your real name."
Bean ground his teeth; of course she would ask! That's natural. "I'm not at liberty to say." That would do.
"That's not going to do Bean." Rally replied, arms crossed over her chest. "Of course, I could just get the information from your mother."
He visibly cringed; he would never live that down. Rally smiled once more. "You would never live it down!"
"Are you reading my mind?" he asked, sitting up once more.
"Nope! Maybe great minds just think alike!" She replied as he kissed the back of her hand.
"Maybe." He gave a sigh of relief; that wasn't too hard.
"Um, you never answered my question." She pointed out with a sly smile.
He rolled his eyes and helped her up. "Well, I don't use it much, because I don't like it all that well."
"What? Are you afraid I'll laugh?! Come on, I thought you would trust me more than that!" she chided as she squeezed his hand.
He shrugged; she had a point. "Fine."
"Fine."
There was silence. Rally rolled her eyes. "Any day now Bean."
He sighed. "Okay. Well, my mother apparently was in rare form when she was pregnant, because she decided to name me Blake."
"What's wrong with that?" Rally looked up thoughtfully. "Other than the fact it means 'fair haired'?"
Bean rolled his eyes. "Yes, other than that. So, there you go."
"Thank you Blake, that wasn't so hard was it?" Rally asked, eyes smiling.
"Not at all Irene." Bean replied, looking at her.
"Funny." Rally stated. "How about a deal?"
"What kind of deal?"
"I don't call you Blake, you don't call me Irene."
Bean smiled. "Sounds good to me."
"I thought you'd see it my way."
They were both stopped in the hall. Katherine looked up disapprovingly. "You two are acting rather childish." She pointed at Bean. "YOU are the crown prince and she is to become a princess! Such behavior shall never do."
Both looked down tuning slightly red in the face. Katherine smiled and then walked around them. "Enjoy it while you can."
Both watched as she passed. Rally grabbed his hand tighter and whispered a silent 'thank you'. Bean looked over. "Well, that was interesting. And close."
Rally nodded and they continued their grand tour of the palace. That evening, Mary Anne once again helped Misty and Rally, although they were in separate rooms this time. Rally looked thoughtfully at the wall that had a large glass and silver mirror on it. She sighed; tomorrow would be a big day. She hoped to be ready for it; being presented in front of the entire kingdom sounded frightening; the only solace was Becky's face. Rally smiled and drifted off to sleep.
The next morning, Rally was up a little later than the others. She rubbed her eyes and looked into Mary Anne's large brown eyes. "Good morning miss Rally!" she chirped.
Rally smiled. "Good morning Mary Anne. What time is it?"
"Around nine thirty." She replied, opening the closet.
"Oh my! I overslept!!" Rally hopped up and ran to the closet.
Mary Anne pushed her into a seat with a smile. "Calm down miss! The queen said to let you sleep! You haven't missed anything!"
"Besides breakfast." Rally mumbled.
Mary Anne laughed a tinkling laugh. "Oh, don't be silly! I can run and get you something!" she turned with a grin. "Or I can get the prince to take breakfast with you as he wasn't up either last I heard."
Rally smiled. "That'd be nice, thank you."
Mary Anne nodded and then dug around in the vast closet before pulling out a modest red dress with silver trim. She laid this on the bed before pulling Rally into the washroom and helping her run a bath. While Rally took a bath, Mary Anne went down the halls, and stopped in front of Bean's room. She looked at the guard. "Morning sir!"
"Good morning miss. What can I do for you?"
"I'm here to wake up the prince!" she smiled.
He nodded and opened the door. "That's fine, but don't be long."
She nodded and stepped into the dark room; the shades were still pulled. She strode over and purposefully pulled them away, drowning the room in sunlight. Bean turned over and buried his head under a pillow. "Ugh."
Mary Anne giggled. "That's lovely! No wonder miss Rally is so taken with you!"
He looked out from under the pillow as Mary Anne looked in with a smile. "Good morning!"
"Um, good morning?" he asked; or stated, she couldn't quite tell.
Looking on with a smile that told she knew something he didn't Mary Anne pulled the pillow away with a flourish. "Miss Rally just got up and hasn't had breakfast yet! She'd like to eat with you if that's not too much trouble!"
"Of course its not any trouble." He grumbled, hands over his eyes trying to keep out the light.
Mary Anne giggled again. "Oh, get up! Its all ready after nine thirty."
"And your point?" he asked, hands still over his eyes.
She sighed. "Fine! Sleep away. I'll just tell miss Rally that you didn't want breakfast with her." She started back out the door.
"Wait, wait, wait!!" he called, sitting up and squinting. "I'm up. I'm up! Sort of. I'll get ready then."
She nodded happily and went to the closet to pull out clothes and set them in the washroom. She pulled out black slacks and a red vest/tunic with a white shirt. Setting them in the washroom and then walking back into his room, Mary Anne saw that he was lying back on the bed again. She rolled her eyes. "GET UP!!"
He frowned and growled at her, but grudgingly sat up and tripped his way to the washroom. Mary Anne smiled and exited the room. She walked lightly back down the halls into Rally's room. Inside, Rally was getting into her robe and turned with a squeak when Mary Anne entered. "Sorry!" she chirped to Rally.
"Goodness! You startled me!" Rally replied.
Mary Anne smiled and helped her with her clothes. She also found another necklace as well. "Well, the prince will probably be a bit; he's not exactly a morning person."
"In other words, he's a 'wake me about noon' person?"
"Pretty much."
Rally laughed as the necklace was hung around her neck. She stopped, thoughtfully twirling the drop of diamond between her fingers. "Mary Anne?"
"Yes?"
Rally was hesitant a moment. "What shall I expect tonight?"
Mary Anne smiled and then started brushing Rally's hair. "It will be very extravagant and bright. A very large part of the kingdom will be there. That's why the actual ceremony will be outside; so everyone that comes can see. I know one year they had one of the prince's birthday celebrations outside. It absolutely poured after awhile; but he didn't mind. I think he liked it better actually."
Giggling, Rally calmed down some. "I would guess so. He strikes me as the outdoors type."
"Excellent guess." Mary Anne replied as she finished and set the brush down. "But listen. Tonight will be wonderful!! Do not worry, you will love it!"
Rally nodded and they both walked out the door and down to one of the dining halls. Mary Anne seated Rally and then went to the kitchen to prepare something for them to eat. She passed one of the other serving girls and had her run upstairs and direct the prince to the right room. Piling on lots of good food ad drinks, Mary Anne walked heavily into the room. Rally sat up. "Would you like some help?!"
"No, that's alright." She replied, smiling. She set the tray down on the table. "And the prince should be here shortly; I sent one of the other girls after him; make sure he didn't change his mind about sleeping." She rolled her eyes.
Rally's tinkling laughed came out like music in the large room. Both girls turned at the open door. Bean looked in. "I did NOT change my mind about sleeping."
Both girls giggled as they walked in and Bean took a seat next to Rally. Mary Anne squeezed Rally's hand comfortingly and then started back out the door with the other girl. "Call if you need anything!"
Bean nodded and then looked over at Rally with a smile. "Did you sleep well?"
"Very, thank you." She replied, grabbing a piece of apple and winking.
He nodded and began eating as well; both rather got into their food.
May dropped the pencil again. "Argh!!"
Rally called. "Uh, May?"
"Yes?" came back sweetly.
"Is there a problem?"
"Nah. Just trying to figure out how to end this story. That's all." May replied, cracking her knuckles.
"Ah. Writer's block?"
"Kind of. I know how I want to end it, but not how I want to get it there, you know?"
"Kind of. I'm sure you'll think of some- ooohhh. Pretty car!"
May looked up questioningly. "What are you doing?"
"Watching SpeedVision. This show is on where they're finishing up a car restoration."
"Ah." May looked up at the door and then back at her paper. She grabbed the pencil and began to tap out the story's ending scene.
After finishing breakfast, both were ushered out and into separate rooms to prepare for the ball this evening. Mary Anne had grabbed Misty and brought her in to help prepare Rally. Mary Anne had run to another room to get something, so Misty sat next to Rally. "So. What do you think so far?"
"I'm not sure. Its happened so quick, you know?"
Misty nodded. "Mmhm. So, do you know what Mary Anne's getting?"
"Not really. She mumbled something about a dress, but nothing specific. You are going to the ball tonight, right?"
"Yep! I met this really nice guy today-"
"In the ball room?"
"Yes. How did you know?"
"Well-" Rally was interrupted by Mary Anne coming back in through the door once again. She immediately began getting Rally cleaned up for her debut. Misty was helping as well; mostly locating jewelry and items that Mary Anne needed. About an hour later, there was a knock at the door and Misty let in two girls that were carrying a covered garment between them. Misty peeked under the cover and smiled broadly. "Oooh. Gorgeous!"
Mary Anne nodded and sent the girls back out of the room. She pulled Rally's gown from the parcel. Her chin dropped; it was a royal purple gown. It was heavily beaded across the chest and over the shoulders; also at the wrists on the sleeves that came to a point. The skirt flared out slightly, open at the front with silver underneath that matched the silver threadwork on the rest of the dress. It took them a few minutes, but Rally got into the dress and twirled. "Oh my."
Smiling, Mary Anne looked up again with a nod. "You look lovely." She pulled out a pair of slippers with glass heels. "Put these on."
Rally slipped on the shoes. She sat quietly as Misty snapped the silver chain around her neck. Mary Anne turned to Misty. "Now you must get ready! Have Bethany help you!"
Misty nodded after winking at Rally and exited the room. "The prince will fall all over himself."
Rally blushed. "I do wish to make a good impression."
"You will make a striking impression." Mary Anne grabbed Rally's hand and pulled her up. "Come! Its time!"
They walked out the bedroom door and into the bustling halls. Courtiers walked by, looking at Rally. She felt somewhat self-conscious, even though she was a beautiful site in the purple gown. Following silently, Rally hoped to make a good impression. She glanced out a stairwell window into the open court; there were so many people out there! What would she do?! Decorations fluttered in the breeze as people danced in time to the music playing softly around them, as the king and queen were presented. Then the view was gone and she was walking down the stairwell once again. It was a short walk, thank goodness. She heard trumpets again and heard Bean's introduction amid the people; she smiled at 'Blake'.
Suddenly, Rally was at the door to the open court and she paused, looking at it. Going through the door meant that things would forever be different. No more childish ways, she had to act like an adult. But, with that, came being respected for who she was; no longer just an employee, no longer under the tyrannical rule of her stepmother. She had her best friend Misty and would try and save May from a dire fate. She had the queen's support; as well as the prince's. Not to mention, the prince himself. Rally blushed, smiled and walked confidently through the door. Change was good after all.
The air stilled as people turned to see who emerged from the castle. Yet, Rally did not waver; she strode purposefully forward, ready to meet a new challenge. The queen nodded thoughtfully with a smile at the young woman approaching them without fear, reminiscent of her own presentation to her husband. Bean strode down the short stairwell from the thrones and grabbed Rally's hand, kissing the back of it. "You look."
"Out of place?" Rally offered helpfully.
He looked down with a surprise. "No. You look perfect."
Rally blushed. "Thank you." She glanced at his own attire: deep red with gold trimmed tunic, with gold links across the chest. Light slacks and black boots with black hair slicked back. "You don't look too bad yourself." She arched an eyebrow.
He nodded with a grin and they started to dance. As he twirled her around the floor, Rally's smile lit up a light blush on her cheeks. Suddenly she was tugged from his grasp and fell to the ground. She looked back, shocked that someone would go out of his or her way to hurt her. Ankle throbbing, she slowly stood up, stumbling just a bit. She faced Becky. "You little brat!" she screeched, pointing at Rally. "What are you doing here?! You and that little thief Misty! I saw her as we entered! Answer me this instant!!"
Rally's eyelids lowered subtly. She answered in a calm, mature tone. "I am here because I was invited. Otherwise, it is not of your concern."
Becky was furious. Balling up a fist, she swung at Rally, who just ducked out of the way, barely missing the swings, but not expounding a lot of energy. Becky stopped when Bean stood between she and Rally. She fell to the floor in a bow. "Your highness. This little girl has deceived you! She is not even of royal blood!"
He scowled down at her, fist clenched. He felt Rally touch his arm, in a way to calm him down some; it worked. He turned towards her. "This would be- "
"Becky." She nodded and glanced at Misty who had appeared out of nowhere.
Becky looked up. "You have been de-"
"I have been done no such way." He replied gruffly, cutting her off. "I think this young woman is one of the most honest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, so save your lies."
Guards came down, awaiting his order. He turned towards one. "Take her to a cell." The guard nodded and did as asked. She was fighting the whole way, screaming curses at both Rally and Misty. Rally had tears in her eyes.
He grabbed her hand and pulled her into a hug. "Please tell me what's wrong."
"I don't know what I did to deserve her hatred. That's all. She is the only mother I have ever known; and she was never really that to me."
He held her closer as she cried. The queen approached the small huddle. She placed a hand on Rally's shaking shoulder. "My dear. I would love to treat you as my daughter."
Rally turned and embraced the queen who hugged her tightly. "Thank you. Thank you so very much." Came muffled from sniffles.
Misty tentatively began to approach when there was a hand on her shoulder. She looked back and down into May's eyes. "I want to apologize. To both of you for my mother. Neither of you ever deserved the way she treated you. Please accept my apologies for her behavior." May bowed her head.
Both Misty and Rally ran and hugged her. She returned the embrace. "Thank you May." Rally whispered.
The queen looked on with a small smile as her son did the same. He walked over and took Rally's hand; she turned with a smile and glittering eyes. He nodded to the queen who then took her place back on the dais, signaling the two up to the front. The king rose calling for attention. Silence rose among the people as Bean helped Rally to the front with a smile. Stepping forward, the king did his presentation. "I would like to welcome you all to this interesting and joyous occasion. Tonight we shall present the crown prince and his choice of a bride. So, may I present Crown Prince Blake Bandit and his engagement to Irene Vincent."
Both cringed at the use of their first names, but managed to turn smiles towards both the king and queen and then to the people present amid loud cheering. Loudest seemed to be coming from May and Misty in the front. Bean led Rally down to the floor and began to turn her around to the music; he was more graceful than his size would have denoted. Rally smiled, looking into chocolate eyes, feeling as if she were floating as they moved across the floor. Forever twirling in his arms.
They were married two weeks later, on a beautiful spring day. The kingdom was in attendance and Misty as well as May got to be in the wedding. Misty however had maid of honor. A large portion of that was due to May wanting to be nearer to the courier Ken; she decided he was a keeper. As the ceremony came to an end, Rally was twirled with a giddy laugh, forever in his arms.
And they lived happily ever after.
May dropped her pencil with a cheer. "Woo Hoo!! I am FINISHED!!! Yeah!"
Rally came into the kitchen, empty soda can in hand. "So, you act happy with your work May."
"I am! I've worked hard on it and it was really fun! I figure I might as well be proud of what I do, you know."
"Makes sense to me. May I read it?" Rally asked as she stepped to the table.
"Sure. Yell for me when you get done." May stated as she left the kitchen to watch television for awhile.
A while later, Rally walked into the living room giggling. "I love it May! Happily ever after mush! It was great! And I get my prince charming after all."
"You may not know it, but you've got him already." May looked up with a smile.
"Its nice to get reaffirmation though." Rally sighed and then handed the papers back with a smile. "This is good. You'll have to let Bean read this. You portrayed him really romantically in this thing; he should be flattered."
"Yeah, I hope." May giggled with a smile. "Don't you like these stories with happy endings?"
Rally turned with a grin. "Yeah. After all, how often do people get to live happily ever after?"
1 The Actual End. ^^
Author's notes- Hey. Glad you made it this far. ^^;; This got a little out of hand. You know what I was aiming for? A one-part story with about ten or fifteen pages typed. What do I get? A colossal thing spanning twenty-eight pages. Sigh. Oh well. Can't win them all. So, what did you think? Email me and let me know. I'm heading in a certain direction with these writings. I have my timeline plotted out and I'm sticking to it fairly well actually. Interested in what's happening next? Great, email me some comments. ^^ Volume 4 is next!