Ahhh, finally. *cough* Thanks to SOME people. =P
Next chapter coming soon. Really.

Alanna froze in place, her hand tightly gripping Thom's arm. With a sigh, he stopped and turned to his sister, expression softening when he saw her mask of terror.

I - I can't do this, the girl whispered, licking her lips. I can't.

You shoudn't have to, he thought grimly, gently plucking her hand off him and drawing her into a brief hug. They won't eat you, he told her, wincing inwardly at the stupidity of the comment. They're human.

They're their majesties, Alanna whispered, voice muffled; her face was burried in Thom's shoulder. My future husband and inlaws. I just can't!

Thom blinked; as children, Alanna would never have shown her fear like she was doing now. Alanna was the fighter, the brave one - who was this shivering young lady?

Alanna, stop it, he told her sternly, drawing away to look her full in the face. Hold your head high and walk in with the pride of a Trebond - I know you have it. He paused so he could search her face, then added, They owe us.

She sniffed as she examined the floor. I know. A watery grin spread on her face. Who would've guessed? The Trebond males, each one doing a great service to the Crown?

Thom ducked Alanna's mock punch with a resigned air. he drawled, taking her hand in his. I do learn the basics after six years of training.

A hint of her old spirit showing in her violet eyes, Alanna walked beside her brother silently as they made their way through the palace and down to the throne room. She noticed absently that the number of armed men positioned against the walls was growing; Thom murmured something to their guide, who stepped up to the pair of enormous doors they had just reached, and knocked.

Thom commented, watching the servant slip inside the room. This is it.