In My Dreams
Disclaimer: Obviously I don't own anything except the plot.
Chpt 2) - -- "Is it enough to love? Is it enough to care? Or is it enough just to dream and watch you as you melt away from me?" --
[Vidanric POV]
A startled gasp was all the time she gave me to respond, appearing as a river of auburn hair cascading rapidly after her tiny body that belied a fiery spirit. The person's identity flashed through my mind in that instant and numb shock shook me to my roots. Mel!
"Had I been a step quicker, I could've caught her safely! Burn it, what business had she atop a tree anyway?" An incensed voice questioned my mind.
That question was answered by the little bundle of fur unsteadily skittering to the sides of two other kittens waiting nearby. Imprints of fingers were clear against its creamy fur still glistening with moisture of the early-morning rain. Nervous energy gnawed at my mind, even as I struggled to maintain an impeccable court mask to hide feelings, which ran raw.
Within a space of a few breaths, I was crouched beside her, having dismounted when I first saw the restless mount and discarded slippers. Hoping my eyes did not reveal the mixed emotions of both humor and worry coursing through my very veins, - Life! Whoever at court climbs trees to save stray kittens? - I drawled over my words.
"Why, if it isn't Lady Meliara? What brings you here?" As if she had not like a fallen angel from the highest thresholds of skies above, just landed with a heavy thud on the damp ground. Her dazed gaze gave me reason for worry, and I had to battle against every instincts of my body to take her in my arms and personally inspect her for any injuries sustained.
Mel's feelings fanned across her face, every shadow and fairy light played lively expressing many emotions, most of which I could do without. A dull ache settled in my heart, knowing that the face she showed the world was hidden to me.
"Pray tell me my lady, what business you had on a tree?" I managed a lighthearted comment to rouse Mel, for my worry was increasing.
Too often, I had to be content watching her, detached from the personal confidents who crowded and took pleasure in her company and vice versa. Pushing those petty jealousies aside, I quickly surveyed her deceiving delicate frame looking for any visible scratches or injuries. How innocent and kind you are, to endanger your well being for those of animals or others?
Her heavy skirts no longer covered her magnificently scarred foot, which reminded me of the pursuits she had me going relentlessly on if I were to secure her survival. Sighing inwardly, I nevertheless kept up the façade of the well-bred court men whom she had made clear of her feelings of despise.
Why must it be me though? Bitterly I recalled the times at Tlanth when I had endeavored to win her to my cause, it had ended though, with a heated exchange of words, and a revelation that Mel resented me because of reasons unknown to her!
Russav had scoffed at my desolateness after my return. He did not see what I did, for I saw the not-too-old grudges that smeared her pride, my comments had been viewed in the most scathing of her eyes, my actions more usually than naught brought about fresh feelings that hurt.
Nevertheless, this lovely resilient spirit that still lay witless on the ground had captivated me; I had only myself to blame for making such an unworthy first impression on her, also, for losing myself hopelessly in a deep chasm I could not nor would want to escape from.
Needless thoughts chased on the heels of its predecessor, clouding my mind, till a soft groan pulled me back to my senses. Her clear blue eyes burnt with embarrassment, the reddening tinges of her cheeks clearly visible, as a direct result of knowing how silly she must look.
What she did not know was the instant tightening of my heart and heady giddiness, as I beheld her vulnerability and softened features bejeweled by beads of perspiration glistening under the sun's gleaming rays. "How could anyone be as beautiful and unknowing as her?" I thought almost reverently, not noticing her pained but enquiring gaze.
"Your Grace." That was all Mel managed before fierce pain gripped her, contorting her expressive face. I felt her pain as if it was my own, letting my instincts overcame my stern control. I gathered her in my arms, immediately heading for the nearest location where she could rest in peace. And not in the presence of people who would distress her. "Like me." I mentally added.
Mel tensed in my arms. Sensing a violent confrontation coming on despite her less-than-perfect body condition, I dryly said, "I pray you see this is the only way out, for your injuries are of much more consequence than some loose-tongued gossip lurking around."
In answer, she tersely replied "I'm sure it wouldn't but for I wish we stop meeting under these." Struggling for words, I continued her unfinished sentence. "Unpleasant circumstances?"
She nodded. Or tried a semblance of an arrogant nod while perched uncomfortably in my arms. My own bubbled mirth showed somehow, even though I was convinced I had kept my facial features carefully neutral, for Mel's tight voice when she next spoke betrayed the hints of controlled anger.
"I will prefer to be set down at this instant, if you think me a comedian to keep you amused."
Burn it, I've managed to ruin a beautiful moment again. Kudos to you Danric! Her softening weight, which was as light as a feather, once more lay rigid in anger. Thankfully, the destination I had in mind was in sight, and I set her down on the carpet-like grass as gently as a mother would set her newborn.
"Stay here," I ordered, allowing a hint of steely resolve to enter my drawl. Mel's eyes widened, her quick tongue ready to deliver a slew of retorts. She would have succeeded, if not for another spasm of pain. Glaring impetuously at me, so her actions wouldn't be mistaken for obeisance, she sank down to the ground, tightly pursed lips imperceptibly relaxing in relief.
Although every fibre of my body wanted to stay with Mel to keep her safe, common sense told me, as I did reluctantly turn to head back amongst the trees, that I should get some bandages and healers. Reluctance stemming from the fact that I wanted so much to be alone with Mel; I never had any chance to, not considering the private encounters in the alcove and in the library in Tlanth.
In haste, I rode back to the castle, not entirely hoping to encounter some healers by chance. "No such luck." I muttered, half-pleased for this meant I could devote an entire afternoon with Mel; which in itself served as a precious chance to clear up the many misunderstandings between us. Bandages and ointments were gathered into one arm, the other trying to fend off ardent affections of an over zealous cream-colored kitten. I eyed it narrowly with suspicion. Just as it purred sweetly, the tapestry was flung open, revealing the powerful build and rakish grin of Russav. What luck to meet him.
Russav covered the distance between us in three strides, bearing upon me like a hunter upon a prey's trail. Grinning openly much to my chagrin, he pointed teasingly to the bundles in my arms and raised an eyebrow question. Several alternatives to the truth flitted through my mind, each of them as impossible to believe as the first. I sighed in resignation admitting freely that Mel was injured, after falling down a tree as a result of trying to save three kittens. As if to back up my point, the kitten - now rubbing contentedly against my breeches, purred softly.
His enigmatic eyes widened in surprise and settled to admiration for the free spirit that Mel possessed. He scooped up the kitten and in response to my enquiries, replied simply.
"Tamara my cousin. This kitten," He waved vaguely, "and the other two, ran away from her this morning."
"Ahhh," My own grin widened, cracking the impassive face I usually wore.
My "insolence" was repaid when Russav insisted stubbornly to be taken along to where Mel rested. Protesting futilely, but giving in at last for worry ate at my mind, Russav was led to the soft grassy open where Mel lay. She lay still, looking every part like an angel with her porcelain profile basking under the warm light. Her auburn hair fanned out like a halo, I could almost imagine a crown resting on that smooth expanse of hair.
Panic rose from within. She lay too still! Russav sensed the tensing of my shoulders and threw me a comforting glance as I dismounted, swiftly reaching her side. I relaxed instantly, seeing the gentle rise and fall of her chest, realizing she was in sweet dreamlands. Chiding myself for thinking the worse, also resenting Russav's quiet laughter, I seated myself beside her, letting my gaze roam over her freely drinking in her peaceful beauty like an elixir.
My cousin chuckled at my boyish behavior, for indeed no lady in court had ever held me spell bound. Their expressions did not reveal the sharp wit and intelligence as Mel did freely. Neither would any risk spoiling a gown for the sake of three kittens. It was easy to see how I've come to love Mel.
Breezes carried the sweet scent of roses across the grassy area. Russav had tired of watching me appreciate Mel in a rare moment of peace silently. He paced impatiently across the greens; pausing only to eye me with a devilish smile stretching over handsomely etched face.
I leveled a calm gaze on him, managing to quell his restlessness. He had gotten my message: That he was free to leave as he wished. Life! But was I was eager to get rid of his pesky presence!
"Only then will I be able to be at peace, free to kiss her and yet protect her honor." I knew in my heart, till the grudges between us were resolved, only in my dreams would I be able to kiss her.
Turning back to my contemplation of Mel's delicate frame, I did not realize Russav's advancement till a shove from behind pushed me off balance, interrupting my previous train of thoughts. Realizing that Mel lay before me, I could only throw my hands down in front of me, hoping my full weight would not fall on her fragile figure.
I fell, my lips pressing on Mel's cheeks, my weight supported by my arms.
The tender feeling of her warm skin jolted my senses, but warning alarms went off in my mind, hazed in the passion of the moment. If she wakes up - which I would not be surprised if she did, considering my weight as compared to her, my strained relationship with her was as good as if it had never started.
Still, it took several moments before I relinquished the kiss that left my five senses burning, my lips demanding for more.
Common sense reined in the strong passions that my sleeping beauty stirred unwittingly. Russav was gone, I noted after a quick survey of surroundings, grudgingly grateful for his shove. Mel stirred uneasily whilst a myriad of feelings flooded my mind.
I knew this kiss would have to suffice till the day that perhaps may never come, when Mel could bring herself to call me Vidanric and greet me with joy and bright laughter in her eyes.Momentarily, sorrow overwhelmed me, that the one I loved only as I suspected, loved me through an unknown identity.
*A/N: Please do review!!! Lotsa thanks and love for those who review! I ABSOLUTELY adore those who have reviewed the first chpt!! *muakz Black rose25: Hey, I hope I updated in time. Fel: Thanks loads for invaluable advice and the polishing up! Lady Bee: Ure the first reviewer I got, imagine the sentimental value you hold to me!!!!!
Disclaimer: Obviously I don't own anything except the plot.
Chpt 2) - -- "Is it enough to love? Is it enough to care? Or is it enough just to dream and watch you as you melt away from me?" --
[Vidanric POV]
A startled gasp was all the time she gave me to respond, appearing as a river of auburn hair cascading rapidly after her tiny body that belied a fiery spirit. The person's identity flashed through my mind in that instant and numb shock shook me to my roots. Mel!
"Had I been a step quicker, I could've caught her safely! Burn it, what business had she atop a tree anyway?" An incensed voice questioned my mind.
That question was answered by the little bundle of fur unsteadily skittering to the sides of two other kittens waiting nearby. Imprints of fingers were clear against its creamy fur still glistening with moisture of the early-morning rain. Nervous energy gnawed at my mind, even as I struggled to maintain an impeccable court mask to hide feelings, which ran raw.
Within a space of a few breaths, I was crouched beside her, having dismounted when I first saw the restless mount and discarded slippers. Hoping my eyes did not reveal the mixed emotions of both humor and worry coursing through my very veins, - Life! Whoever at court climbs trees to save stray kittens? - I drawled over my words.
"Why, if it isn't Lady Meliara? What brings you here?" As if she had not like a fallen angel from the highest thresholds of skies above, just landed with a heavy thud on the damp ground. Her dazed gaze gave me reason for worry, and I had to battle against every instincts of my body to take her in my arms and personally inspect her for any injuries sustained.
Mel's feelings fanned across her face, every shadow and fairy light played lively expressing many emotions, most of which I could do without. A dull ache settled in my heart, knowing that the face she showed the world was hidden to me.
"Pray tell me my lady, what business you had on a tree?" I managed a lighthearted comment to rouse Mel, for my worry was increasing.
Too often, I had to be content watching her, detached from the personal confidents who crowded and took pleasure in her company and vice versa. Pushing those petty jealousies aside, I quickly surveyed her deceiving delicate frame looking for any visible scratches or injuries. How innocent and kind you are, to endanger your well being for those of animals or others?
Her heavy skirts no longer covered her magnificently scarred foot, which reminded me of the pursuits she had me going relentlessly on if I were to secure her survival. Sighing inwardly, I nevertheless kept up the façade of the well-bred court men whom she had made clear of her feelings of despise.
Why must it be me though? Bitterly I recalled the times at Tlanth when I had endeavored to win her to my cause, it had ended though, with a heated exchange of words, and a revelation that Mel resented me because of reasons unknown to her!
Russav had scoffed at my desolateness after my return. He did not see what I did, for I saw the not-too-old grudges that smeared her pride, my comments had been viewed in the most scathing of her eyes, my actions more usually than naught brought about fresh feelings that hurt.
Nevertheless, this lovely resilient spirit that still lay witless on the ground had captivated me; I had only myself to blame for making such an unworthy first impression on her, also, for losing myself hopelessly in a deep chasm I could not nor would want to escape from.
Needless thoughts chased on the heels of its predecessor, clouding my mind, till a soft groan pulled me back to my senses. Her clear blue eyes burnt with embarrassment, the reddening tinges of her cheeks clearly visible, as a direct result of knowing how silly she must look.
What she did not know was the instant tightening of my heart and heady giddiness, as I beheld her vulnerability and softened features bejeweled by beads of perspiration glistening under the sun's gleaming rays. "How could anyone be as beautiful and unknowing as her?" I thought almost reverently, not noticing her pained but enquiring gaze.
"Your Grace." That was all Mel managed before fierce pain gripped her, contorting her expressive face. I felt her pain as if it was my own, letting my instincts overcame my stern control. I gathered her in my arms, immediately heading for the nearest location where she could rest in peace. And not in the presence of people who would distress her. "Like me." I mentally added.
Mel tensed in my arms. Sensing a violent confrontation coming on despite her less-than-perfect body condition, I dryly said, "I pray you see this is the only way out, for your injuries are of much more consequence than some loose-tongued gossip lurking around."
In answer, she tersely replied "I'm sure it wouldn't but for I wish we stop meeting under these." Struggling for words, I continued her unfinished sentence. "Unpleasant circumstances?"
She nodded. Or tried a semblance of an arrogant nod while perched uncomfortably in my arms. My own bubbled mirth showed somehow, even though I was convinced I had kept my facial features carefully neutral, for Mel's tight voice when she next spoke betrayed the hints of controlled anger.
"I will prefer to be set down at this instant, if you think me a comedian to keep you amused."
Burn it, I've managed to ruin a beautiful moment again. Kudos to you Danric! Her softening weight, which was as light as a feather, once more lay rigid in anger. Thankfully, the destination I had in mind was in sight, and I set her down on the carpet-like grass as gently as a mother would set her newborn.
"Stay here," I ordered, allowing a hint of steely resolve to enter my drawl. Mel's eyes widened, her quick tongue ready to deliver a slew of retorts. She would have succeeded, if not for another spasm of pain. Glaring impetuously at me, so her actions wouldn't be mistaken for obeisance, she sank down to the ground, tightly pursed lips imperceptibly relaxing in relief.
Although every fibre of my body wanted to stay with Mel to keep her safe, common sense told me, as I did reluctantly turn to head back amongst the trees, that I should get some bandages and healers. Reluctance stemming from the fact that I wanted so much to be alone with Mel; I never had any chance to, not considering the private encounters in the alcove and in the library in Tlanth.
In haste, I rode back to the castle, not entirely hoping to encounter some healers by chance. "No such luck." I muttered, half-pleased for this meant I could devote an entire afternoon with Mel; which in itself served as a precious chance to clear up the many misunderstandings between us. Bandages and ointments were gathered into one arm, the other trying to fend off ardent affections of an over zealous cream-colored kitten. I eyed it narrowly with suspicion. Just as it purred sweetly, the tapestry was flung open, revealing the powerful build and rakish grin of Russav. What luck to meet him.
Russav covered the distance between us in three strides, bearing upon me like a hunter upon a prey's trail. Grinning openly much to my chagrin, he pointed teasingly to the bundles in my arms and raised an eyebrow question. Several alternatives to the truth flitted through my mind, each of them as impossible to believe as the first. I sighed in resignation admitting freely that Mel was injured, after falling down a tree as a result of trying to save three kittens. As if to back up my point, the kitten - now rubbing contentedly against my breeches, purred softly.
His enigmatic eyes widened in surprise and settled to admiration for the free spirit that Mel possessed. He scooped up the kitten and in response to my enquiries, replied simply.
"Tamara my cousin. This kitten," He waved vaguely, "and the other two, ran away from her this morning."
"Ahhh," My own grin widened, cracking the impassive face I usually wore.
My "insolence" was repaid when Russav insisted stubbornly to be taken along to where Mel rested. Protesting futilely, but giving in at last for worry ate at my mind, Russav was led to the soft grassy open where Mel lay. She lay still, looking every part like an angel with her porcelain profile basking under the warm light. Her auburn hair fanned out like a halo, I could almost imagine a crown resting on that smooth expanse of hair.
Panic rose from within. She lay too still! Russav sensed the tensing of my shoulders and threw me a comforting glance as I dismounted, swiftly reaching her side. I relaxed instantly, seeing the gentle rise and fall of her chest, realizing she was in sweet dreamlands. Chiding myself for thinking the worse, also resenting Russav's quiet laughter, I seated myself beside her, letting my gaze roam over her freely drinking in her peaceful beauty like an elixir.
My cousin chuckled at my boyish behavior, for indeed no lady in court had ever held me spell bound. Their expressions did not reveal the sharp wit and intelligence as Mel did freely. Neither would any risk spoiling a gown for the sake of three kittens. It was easy to see how I've come to love Mel.
Breezes carried the sweet scent of roses across the grassy area. Russav had tired of watching me appreciate Mel in a rare moment of peace silently. He paced impatiently across the greens; pausing only to eye me with a devilish smile stretching over handsomely etched face.
I leveled a calm gaze on him, managing to quell his restlessness. He had gotten my message: That he was free to leave as he wished. Life! But was I was eager to get rid of his pesky presence!
"Only then will I be able to be at peace, free to kiss her and yet protect her honor." I knew in my heart, till the grudges between us were resolved, only in my dreams would I be able to kiss her.
Turning back to my contemplation of Mel's delicate frame, I did not realize Russav's advancement till a shove from behind pushed me off balance, interrupting my previous train of thoughts. Realizing that Mel lay before me, I could only throw my hands down in front of me, hoping my full weight would not fall on her fragile figure.
I fell, my lips pressing on Mel's cheeks, my weight supported by my arms.
The tender feeling of her warm skin jolted my senses, but warning alarms went off in my mind, hazed in the passion of the moment. If she wakes up - which I would not be surprised if she did, considering my weight as compared to her, my strained relationship with her was as good as if it had never started.
Still, it took several moments before I relinquished the kiss that left my five senses burning, my lips demanding for more.
Common sense reined in the strong passions that my sleeping beauty stirred unwittingly. Russav was gone, I noted after a quick survey of surroundings, grudgingly grateful for his shove. Mel stirred uneasily whilst a myriad of feelings flooded my mind.
I knew this kiss would have to suffice till the day that perhaps may never come, when Mel could bring herself to call me Vidanric and greet me with joy and bright laughter in her eyes.Momentarily, sorrow overwhelmed me, that the one I loved only as I suspected, loved me through an unknown identity.
*A/N: Please do review!!! Lotsa thanks and love for those who review! I ABSOLUTELY adore those who have reviewed the first chpt!! *muakz Black rose25: Hey, I hope I updated in time. Fel: Thanks loads for invaluable advice and the polishing up! Lady Bee: Ure the first reviewer I got, imagine the sentimental value you hold to me!!!!!