Amalia went to Kel's room at night as usual. She knocked on the door,
looking around at the boys in the page hall that still looked at her oddly.
Feeling fairly uncomfortable she knocked on the door again.
Kel answered the door quickly after the second knock. She looked surprised to see Amalia. "I didn't think we were meeting anymore until the ball."
"Neither did I but I have to talk to you."
Kel raised her eyebrow. "What about?"
Amalia made sure the door was shut and then turned around. "I have to tell you a secret but you have to promise not to tell anyone." After glancing at Kel she smiled. "I should know I don't even have to ask you that. If anyone can keep a secret, you can."
"What's wrong?" Kel questioned, calm as ever.
"Nothing really, I guess. Well, you probably noticed me at your lessons today."
Kel nodded.
"Well, Thayet told everyone that we were there to watch the teacher's but really I was there to learn some of the training."
"Why?" Kel inquired.
"I'm not sure. Thayet can't tell me because my parents and Jonothon don't want me to know." Amalia went on to tell Kel all that she had heard that day. "And so, Thayet made me promise to keep getting lessons from you."
"I see. Well, let's get started, then."
"Kel, I know I can be really pushy sometimes about the ball and everything but I want you to know that I'm really happy about us being friends and to thank you for everything you are doing for me."
Kel shrugged. "I'm not doing anything that you wouldn't do for me."
"Thank you all the same."
"Enough of this," Kel decided, slightly embarrassed. "Let's start."
Kel started to teach Amalia how to use a staff now that there was a sense of real danger. She went through basic movements, pleased when Amalia picked them up quickly.
After a couple hours Kel decided to end the lesson.
"You'd better get some sleep," she told Amalia. "It's long past the last bell."
"I suppose you're right. We'll practice tomorrow, right?"
"Of course," Kel assured her.
Amalia grinned, relieved. "Good, "I'll see you tomorrow, then. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Kel answered as Amalia started to leave. Then she cleared her throat and added, "Amalia, I know you're really scared right now but you don't have to be. I'm sure nothing can happen to you here. Especially since Jonothon and Numeric are here. And, the rest of the Knights and King's Guard, too. You're in the safest place you could be.
Amalia tried to smile in response. "I know. Don't worry about me. I'll be okay," she told her before walking out the door.
~*~
The next few days went by quickly for everyone. There were preparations for the ball, which kept everyone on their toes. Amalia was kept busy with lessons from Kel, duties to the Queen, and practicing maneuvers she'd learned every chance she got. Thayet and Kel continued to reassure her, but she couldn't help but be anxious about this unknown danger.
~*~ A Few Days Later ~*~
Amalia walked in the gardens the morning of the ball. She was glad to escape everything for a few precious moments to enjoy the nice, warm day. Almost everyone in the cattle was busy, except her, so she knew she would remain uninterrupted. Sadly, she was mistaken when someone unexpectedly grabbed her from behind.
"I've found you," said the assailant.
Without even thinking, she clawed the arm that was around her throat with the hand that wasn't held behind her back. Then, she stomped on the attacker's foot. She whipped around to free her hand and prepared a new attack before recognizing the man that was holding her.
"I surrender!" he declared, holding up his hands.
"Trent!" she yelled, with relief and surprise.
"Nice welcome."
"I'm sorry! I didn't know it was you! And what are you doing sneaking up on people."
"I don't know but I learned my lesson." He inspected his arm where her clawing had drawn blood. "For the God's sakes, what do they teach you here?"
Amalia laughed. "You know that girl page that you thought so proper?"
"She taught you this?"
"Yeah, amount other things"
"I withdrawal my good opinion of her."
"Oh, you better not do that. Tonight will be miserable for you then."
"Why's that?"
"Because, I offered your services as an escort tonight."
"You did what?"
"Oh, come on Trent!"
"You know I hate balls though!"
"You already have to go..."
Adding a date will only make it worse. I don't even know the girl."
"She's great. You'll get along, I swear. It's not like I'm asking you to marry her, just spend a night with her. Besides I'll be there."
"Why am I doing this anyway?"
Amalia told him all about the lessons she'd been giving Kel.
"You know what, I'll do it," Trent decided, after listening to her.
"What changed your mind?"
"I feel nothing but pity for her. Any girl that would sit through lessons from you deserves my utmost sympathy. How did you get her to become your little experiment?"
Amalia looked a little indignant. "We traded lessons. I taught her about being a lady and she taught me defense. And, may I add, she was happy for my help...after a little convincing."
Trent laughed. "Somehow, I don't think it was only a little. And why did you want this dense training?"
"Oh, you know me. I've always wanted to learn how to fight. It's a good thing too! Did you know what I found out?" She went on to tell him all that Thayet had told her, which was still very little.
Trent looked a little uncomfortable.
"Well, aren't you surprised? I'm terrified!"
"Well, not exactly..." Trent started, awkwardly.
"What? How aren't...you knew! You know everything that's going on, don't you?" she accused.
"Before you get upset..."
"Too late for that! So much for sibling trust! I've been terrified this entire time and you've been fine because you know everything! Of course they can tell the boy.he's strong, he can take it. But, the girl, no she can't handle it. She should just be terrified and sit waiting until something bad happens to her!"
"I'm sorry that you have to be scared. I wasn't allowed to tell you anything. I promised Mother and Father."
"Well, you better tell me right now," she insisted.
"Fine, I'll tell you what I know," Trent relented.
"There you are!"
Amalia turned around to find a servant running toward her. "I was sent to fetch you. All the other ladies are getting ready and you're supposed to help the girl page, still."
Amalia nodded. "Thank you," she said, dismissing the servant.
Looking over at Trent, she declared, "This conversation isn't over. The moment we are alone you HAVE to tell me everything."
Trent nodded as Amalia turned and walked away.
~*~
Amalia kicked at Kel's door, attempting to balance an armful of necessities for getting ready.
Kel answered the door and looked relieved when she found it was Amalia.
"There you are!" Kel exclaimed. "I thought you'd forgotten."
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to scare you," Amalia apologized. "I was claring my head in the garden and then I got to talking to Trent."
"You're not even ready," Kel pointed out, noticing that Amalia's ball gown was still in her hand.
"I know. Well, we have two hours. It's time for me to work my magic," Amalia announced, dropping her supplies on the bed.
The next couple hours were a blur for Kel. It was a cloud of pins, uncomfortable shoes, lace, ribbons, flowers, face paint and hair brushes.
"Now, try and tell me I don't have a Gift! Unconventional, but sill magic," Amalia boasted. "Look in the mirror," she commanded Kel.
Kel turned to the mirror and was not ready for what she saw. She had to admit Amalia definitely had done an amazing job. She didn't recognize herself in a tight, dark blue dress with her short hair piled on top of her head with pins and blue flowers.
"Amalia.I just..I look so different. Thank you."
"You look different? What is that? You look stunning! Amazing! You hide all your beauty with armor and dirt and forget it's there, that's all."
"You look great, too," Kel complimented.
Amalia looked at herself in the mirror. She was wearing a red wine colored dress with her hair plaited down the back with ribbons and red flowers intertwined into her mass of ebony colored hair.
"This is definitely some of my best work, if I do say so myself."
"We better get going. We don't want to be late."
"Trent and Neal should be here soon," Amalia assured her.
"Neal?" Kel repeated.
"Yes, he's taking me. Didn't I mention that? Oh no! Do you mind?"
"Mind? Why should I? I just don't really want him to see me like ths because he'll never let me live it down."
"Okay, if you're sure you don't mind. I didn't think about it. Just, Joren asked me but he was such a jerk to Neal that I thought I'd teach him a lesson by taking Neal. And, what do you mean he wont let you live it down? You look gorgeous! He wont laugh," Amalia assured her.
"It really is fine," Kel stated. "But, you obviously don't know Neal that well because he will probably think this a lovely joke."
There was a knock on the door.
"That'll be one of them," Amalia commented. "I'll get the door, you stay put."
Amalia opened the door to find both Trent and Neal.
"Hello," she greeted cheerfully.
"Hey, Neal answered, walking in.
Trent followed, with a careful glance at Amalia to see how angry she was. Amalia showed no evidence that she even remembered their conversation in the garden so she walked up to Kel.
"Keladry, I presume," Trent greeted.
Kel nodded, not showing her nervousness. "Kel, actually."
"Kel, then. I'm Trent," he told her, extemnding his hand.
"I remember," she informed him, giving him her hand.
He kissed it, gallantly.
Kel couldn't help but start to blush, since she'd never come into contact with a situation such as this.
Neal had remained silently staring at Kel. She finally noticed and gave him a weird look.
"Is that really you, Kel?" he inquired.
"Of course it is," she responded, uncomfortable.
He laughed. "I couldn't tell under all that paint."
Amalia looked horrified but quickly hid it. "Idiot!" she thought to herself.
Kel looked crushed for a short moment before hiding it.
Trent watched everyone's reactions and quickly interjected, "I think youlook beautiful."
Kel gave a small smile.
"What if we get going?" Amalia suggested.
"That sounds like a good plan," Trent agreed. He offered his arm to Kel, which she hesitatingly took.
Neal watched Kel for a moment more before extending his arm to Amalia.
"Thank you, good sir. Shall we depart?" she joked, trying to rbeak the awkwardness.
"We shall, milady," he responded, picking up on her good mood.
The group entered the ball room, which was decorated beautifully, together.
"Not too bad," Neal commented. "The Ole Castle cleans up well, doesn't it."
"It sure does," Amalia answered.
The four were seated at a table next to each other for dinner. Trent and Kel remained almost silent throughout the dinner, while Amalia and Neal chatted, trying to include them.
After dinner, musicians began to play dancing music and the floor began to fill.
"Shall we?" Neal invited Amalia.
"I suppose we must."
"Why must we?"
"I don't want anyone thinking me as boring as them," she explained, pointing at Trent and Kel.
"We aren't boring, just not immature," Trent attempted to explain to her.
"If that's what you tell yourself..." Amalia trailed off, as she followed Neal.
"Before reaching the dance floor, they ran into Joren. He looked none too pleased tro see them together.
"Amalia, what a pleasure to see you," he greeated.
"And you," she answered. "So, are you surprised?" she asked, glancing at Neal.
"About what?"
"My escort."
"I still haven't seen him," Joren informed her. "I assume you don't meen Queenscove because you assured me he was a suitable escort."
"And he is," Amalia stated.
"Maybve fore the lump over there," he agreed, pointing at Kel.
Amalia narrowed her eyes. "Are you always so arrongant?"
"I'm just honest," he replied.
"Well, let me be honest. I'd take Neal to a ball over you because while he is polite and funny, you are stuck up and rude. And, don't call Kel a lump. If you'd just look at her you'd see how beautiful and amazing she is, AND.I don't' know what else, I'm just so angry with you right now I could..." she paused thinking about what she could do.
Neal, always the helpful one, handed her a goblet of wine, which without hesitation she threw in Joren's face. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to dance with my date."
Joren stood stunned before storming angrily out of the ball room. Amalia dragged Neal onto the dance floor while he laughed hysterically.
"I didn't think you had it in you," Neal confessed.
"Well, he deserved it," Amalia defended.
"No argument there," Neal agreed.
~*~ Meanwhile ~*~
Trent and Kel watched Neal and Amalia walk toward the dance floor. After a moment of silnce, Trent asked, "Would you like to dance?"
Kel shook her head.
"Are you sure?"
She nodded.
Trent shrugged. "You know, I don't think I've ever met anyone quieter than me., especially a girl. Maybe that comes from living with Amalia for so long."
Kel smiled.
"Now I know what Amalia means by me being too quiet."
"I'm sorry," Kel offered.
"It's okay. I'm shy too," Trent assured her.
"I guess two quiet people together doesn't work out very well. Amalia will be disappointed."
"I doubt it. I don't think it's us she's trying to set up."
"Oh, who then?"
"Can't you think who Amalia might want to set you up with?"
"Neal," she stated, without hesitation.
"So, you like him?" Trent inquired. He didn't really care, but he was tired of the silence and if this was the only thing she would talk about, then he would have to settle for this.
"No," she answered, too quickly.
"I figure he likes you, too."
"How do you know?"
"The way he's acting tonight."
"How's that?"
"Jealous."
"No he isn't. He likes Amalia."
"He might think she's pretty but that's just temporary...there's nothing more than that but physical attraction. Besides, she doesn't like him."
Trent suddenly realized he was gossiping like a thirteen year old girl. "Are you sure you don't want to dance?"
"I don't know how," Kel admitted. "Well, I know how to dance like a boy..."
Trent laughed. "My sister is a little lax in her teachings. That's okay, I can teach you," he decided.
"I don't know."
Trent took her hand and led her to the dance floor despite her weak protests.
"Its easy," he assured her. "It's a little like fighting. You just react to and follow your partner."
Trent firmly held Kel by the small of her back, leading her through the dance steps.
"Not so bad, is it?' he asked.
Kel watched him for a moment. "What you are you doing this?" she interrogated.
"What?"
"Coming to this ball with me? Dancing with me?"
"Because my sister asked me to go with you. As for dancing, that's usually what one does at a ball. Do you object?"
"No," Kel decided, and then focused on dancing.
~*~ Meanwhile ~*~
"Look," Amalia said, pointing out Trent and Kel moving to the dance floor. "That's so cute. He doesn't dance much."
"Yeah, cute," Neal echoed, watching Trent tighten his grip on Kel.
"Definitely nice job on my part for bringing them together."
"Don't you think he's a little old for her?"
"It's only eight years. That's about normal."
"Well, isn't she a little young to be going to balls?"
"No. She's about marrying age. Unless you think I'm too young to go to balls."
"Well, no, but she has all that training to go through."
Amalia grinned. "I do believe you're jealous!"
"ME? Of Kel? I'm not jealous, just protective. She's my best friend."
Amalia examined him closely. "No, I think you're really just jealous."
"I am not. I'd never be jealous of her. She's just one of the guys."
"ME thinks thou dost protest too much. Besides, she's obviously not one of the guys tonight."
"That's true, but tomorrow he will be," Neal pointed out.
Amalia shook her head, disappointed. "So, you like her tonight because she had the appearance of a court lady but since she'll be back to training clothes tomorrow, you don't like her?"
"I don't like her at all," Neal insisted.
Amalia glared. "You are so stubborn!"
Neal grinned. "But, I'm also polite and funny, so it's okay.
Laughing, Amalia assured him, "I didn't mean any of that. I was just saying it for Joren's benefit."
"Sure you were," Neal joked.
"I think that you are too cocky for your own good," Amalia decided. "I'm going to find a different dance partner."
"Well, Joren probably would help you out."
"Tempting, but I had someone else in mind," Amalia told him, looking over at Trent and Kel.
"I know what you're trying to do, and it wont work," Neal told her, seriously.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Amalia assured him. "I was going to spend some quality time with my brother, that's all. I haven't seen him in weeks and I want to ask him about home."
"Sure," Neal stated. "Just let it go."
"You're not any fun," Amalia stated, decidedly.
"You're too interfering," Neal informed her.
"I am not. I'm just trying to help you out."
"It's not helping."
"Fine," Amalia declared. "I don't even care anymore. If you want to be stubborn rather than happy, that's your choice." With that, she turned around and walked into the garden, to escape the crowds of people and get some fresh air.
Neal sighed and followed shortly after.
Kel noticed them leave and pointed it out to Trent.
Trent, having a bad feeling about it, said, "Ready for a little undercover work?" And started to follow them.
"Wait up," Neal called out to Amalia.
Amalia turned around. "Look, I'm sorry. I just like things to turn out well and help people. I don't try to interfere."
"Well, accept that I don't need your help, all right?"
"Fine, I'll back off," Amalia agreed.
Trent watched Kel as the conversation unfolded, to see her reaction. He could decipher nothing in her expression.
"So, want to tell me why you're so opposed?" Amalia asked Neal.
"So much for backing off," Neal commented.
Amalia laughed and rose her hands, taking small steps away from him. "See I am!"
Neal started to smile before his eyes got large. "Wait..." he tred to tell her just as Kel yelled, "Amalia..." but she'd already walked right into a tall, cloaked figure's open arms.
"You should watch where you step," came a deep male voce, as he grabbed her wrists.
Trent lunged from his hiding place, hand searching for the hilt of his sword which unfortunately wasn't an accessory he'd chosen to wear.
Amalia felt a surge of power go through her and saw bright red before everything went black.
~*~
Amalia worke to someone shaking her in the darkness. "It's still dark out, I don't want to wake up," she muttered.
"Open your eyes. It's not dark," a voice ordered.
"She unwillingly opened her eyes, slightly, but quickly closed them as her eyes didt adjust to the flood of sunlight quickly enough.
"Come on Amalia," the voice encouraged.
She gave it another shot, keeping her eyes opened until they were focused. She looked around the unfamiliar setting to find a bare, stoen room, with a dirt floor and large wooden floor. The few windows of the room were barred off. She found the source of the voice, Trent.
"Where the hell are we?" she asked, sitting up.
"I don't know. We were all unconscious after that guy used his gift."
"Is that what that was?"
"Yeah, are you all right?"
"I think so," she replied. "My head feels like it wsa shattered into a million pieces, but I'll be fine."
"Good," Trent stated with relief.
"What happened? Where are Neal and Kel? Who was that?" Amalia asked in rapid secession.
"I don't know, against the wall over there, and probably the man that everyone has been trying to protect you from."
"What? Protect me?"
"The reaon you were sent to the castle. For protection. We were hoping to top the prophesy."
"What prophesy?"
"Many years ago, an ancient oracle prophesized of our coming. I forget the entirety of it now, but the warning signs of us coming were when the lion became a lioness, the immortals returning, and animals thinking for themselves. We were supposed to come then. Two siblings, the boy was to be a great warrior, and a girl...both with ice blue eyes and coal colored hair."
"And that's us?"
"Well, we weren't sure until recently but Numair and Daine did some research and strongly believe it is us. And now, with us being kidnapped there isn't a doubt in my mind."
"Wait, you said the boy was to be a warrior. What is the girl supposed to be?"
"The Balance," a voice from outside the room spoke up.
Amalia looked around startled. "What?"
Then, to her shock, a man covered with a black cloak, walked through the wall into the room.
"You are to be The Balance. The one that is good and evil to make sure neither becomes too powerful."
"How am I supposed to do that?" she inquired.
"You have many powers hidden inside," he explained. "But we will retrieve them so you can meet your destiny."
"I think you must have the wrong girl," Amalia explained. "There's nothing special about me."
"But there is. We just have to find the power."
"I don't want it. I cant be a balance. I don't know how. Besides, I want good to be stronger."
"Come my dear, you don't mean that, do you?"
"Of course I do," Amalia declared, indignant.
"You are smart enough to know that for there to be a good, there must be an evil for it to fight. Without the bad there is no good and without a balance there is neither."
Kel answered the door quickly after the second knock. She looked surprised to see Amalia. "I didn't think we were meeting anymore until the ball."
"Neither did I but I have to talk to you."
Kel raised her eyebrow. "What about?"
Amalia made sure the door was shut and then turned around. "I have to tell you a secret but you have to promise not to tell anyone." After glancing at Kel she smiled. "I should know I don't even have to ask you that. If anyone can keep a secret, you can."
"What's wrong?" Kel questioned, calm as ever.
"Nothing really, I guess. Well, you probably noticed me at your lessons today."
Kel nodded.
"Well, Thayet told everyone that we were there to watch the teacher's but really I was there to learn some of the training."
"Why?" Kel inquired.
"I'm not sure. Thayet can't tell me because my parents and Jonothon don't want me to know." Amalia went on to tell Kel all that she had heard that day. "And so, Thayet made me promise to keep getting lessons from you."
"I see. Well, let's get started, then."
"Kel, I know I can be really pushy sometimes about the ball and everything but I want you to know that I'm really happy about us being friends and to thank you for everything you are doing for me."
Kel shrugged. "I'm not doing anything that you wouldn't do for me."
"Thank you all the same."
"Enough of this," Kel decided, slightly embarrassed. "Let's start."
Kel started to teach Amalia how to use a staff now that there was a sense of real danger. She went through basic movements, pleased when Amalia picked them up quickly.
After a couple hours Kel decided to end the lesson.
"You'd better get some sleep," she told Amalia. "It's long past the last bell."
"I suppose you're right. We'll practice tomorrow, right?"
"Of course," Kel assured her.
Amalia grinned, relieved. "Good, "I'll see you tomorrow, then. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Kel answered as Amalia started to leave. Then she cleared her throat and added, "Amalia, I know you're really scared right now but you don't have to be. I'm sure nothing can happen to you here. Especially since Jonothon and Numeric are here. And, the rest of the Knights and King's Guard, too. You're in the safest place you could be.
Amalia tried to smile in response. "I know. Don't worry about me. I'll be okay," she told her before walking out the door.
~*~
The next few days went by quickly for everyone. There were preparations for the ball, which kept everyone on their toes. Amalia was kept busy with lessons from Kel, duties to the Queen, and practicing maneuvers she'd learned every chance she got. Thayet and Kel continued to reassure her, but she couldn't help but be anxious about this unknown danger.
~*~ A Few Days Later ~*~
Amalia walked in the gardens the morning of the ball. She was glad to escape everything for a few precious moments to enjoy the nice, warm day. Almost everyone in the cattle was busy, except her, so she knew she would remain uninterrupted. Sadly, she was mistaken when someone unexpectedly grabbed her from behind.
"I've found you," said the assailant.
Without even thinking, she clawed the arm that was around her throat with the hand that wasn't held behind her back. Then, she stomped on the attacker's foot. She whipped around to free her hand and prepared a new attack before recognizing the man that was holding her.
"I surrender!" he declared, holding up his hands.
"Trent!" she yelled, with relief and surprise.
"Nice welcome."
"I'm sorry! I didn't know it was you! And what are you doing sneaking up on people."
"I don't know but I learned my lesson." He inspected his arm where her clawing had drawn blood. "For the God's sakes, what do they teach you here?"
Amalia laughed. "You know that girl page that you thought so proper?"
"She taught you this?"
"Yeah, amount other things"
"I withdrawal my good opinion of her."
"Oh, you better not do that. Tonight will be miserable for you then."
"Why's that?"
"Because, I offered your services as an escort tonight."
"You did what?"
"Oh, come on Trent!"
"You know I hate balls though!"
"You already have to go..."
Adding a date will only make it worse. I don't even know the girl."
"She's great. You'll get along, I swear. It's not like I'm asking you to marry her, just spend a night with her. Besides I'll be there."
"Why am I doing this anyway?"
Amalia told him all about the lessons she'd been giving Kel.
"You know what, I'll do it," Trent decided, after listening to her.
"What changed your mind?"
"I feel nothing but pity for her. Any girl that would sit through lessons from you deserves my utmost sympathy. How did you get her to become your little experiment?"
Amalia looked a little indignant. "We traded lessons. I taught her about being a lady and she taught me defense. And, may I add, she was happy for my help...after a little convincing."
Trent laughed. "Somehow, I don't think it was only a little. And why did you want this dense training?"
"Oh, you know me. I've always wanted to learn how to fight. It's a good thing too! Did you know what I found out?" She went on to tell him all that Thayet had told her, which was still very little.
Trent looked a little uncomfortable.
"Well, aren't you surprised? I'm terrified!"
"Well, not exactly..." Trent started, awkwardly.
"What? How aren't...you knew! You know everything that's going on, don't you?" she accused.
"Before you get upset..."
"Too late for that! So much for sibling trust! I've been terrified this entire time and you've been fine because you know everything! Of course they can tell the boy.he's strong, he can take it. But, the girl, no she can't handle it. She should just be terrified and sit waiting until something bad happens to her!"
"I'm sorry that you have to be scared. I wasn't allowed to tell you anything. I promised Mother and Father."
"Well, you better tell me right now," she insisted.
"Fine, I'll tell you what I know," Trent relented.
"There you are!"
Amalia turned around to find a servant running toward her. "I was sent to fetch you. All the other ladies are getting ready and you're supposed to help the girl page, still."
Amalia nodded. "Thank you," she said, dismissing the servant.
Looking over at Trent, she declared, "This conversation isn't over. The moment we are alone you HAVE to tell me everything."
Trent nodded as Amalia turned and walked away.
~*~
Amalia kicked at Kel's door, attempting to balance an armful of necessities for getting ready.
Kel answered the door and looked relieved when she found it was Amalia.
"There you are!" Kel exclaimed. "I thought you'd forgotten."
"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to scare you," Amalia apologized. "I was claring my head in the garden and then I got to talking to Trent."
"You're not even ready," Kel pointed out, noticing that Amalia's ball gown was still in her hand.
"I know. Well, we have two hours. It's time for me to work my magic," Amalia announced, dropping her supplies on the bed.
The next couple hours were a blur for Kel. It was a cloud of pins, uncomfortable shoes, lace, ribbons, flowers, face paint and hair brushes.
"Now, try and tell me I don't have a Gift! Unconventional, but sill magic," Amalia boasted. "Look in the mirror," she commanded Kel.
Kel turned to the mirror and was not ready for what she saw. She had to admit Amalia definitely had done an amazing job. She didn't recognize herself in a tight, dark blue dress with her short hair piled on top of her head with pins and blue flowers.
"Amalia.I just..I look so different. Thank you."
"You look different? What is that? You look stunning! Amazing! You hide all your beauty with armor and dirt and forget it's there, that's all."
"You look great, too," Kel complimented.
Amalia looked at herself in the mirror. She was wearing a red wine colored dress with her hair plaited down the back with ribbons and red flowers intertwined into her mass of ebony colored hair.
"This is definitely some of my best work, if I do say so myself."
"We better get going. We don't want to be late."
"Trent and Neal should be here soon," Amalia assured her.
"Neal?" Kel repeated.
"Yes, he's taking me. Didn't I mention that? Oh no! Do you mind?"
"Mind? Why should I? I just don't really want him to see me like ths because he'll never let me live it down."
"Okay, if you're sure you don't mind. I didn't think about it. Just, Joren asked me but he was such a jerk to Neal that I thought I'd teach him a lesson by taking Neal. And, what do you mean he wont let you live it down? You look gorgeous! He wont laugh," Amalia assured her.
"It really is fine," Kel stated. "But, you obviously don't know Neal that well because he will probably think this a lovely joke."
There was a knock on the door.
"That'll be one of them," Amalia commented. "I'll get the door, you stay put."
Amalia opened the door to find both Trent and Neal.
"Hello," she greeted cheerfully.
"Hey, Neal answered, walking in.
Trent followed, with a careful glance at Amalia to see how angry she was. Amalia showed no evidence that she even remembered their conversation in the garden so she walked up to Kel.
"Keladry, I presume," Trent greeted.
Kel nodded, not showing her nervousness. "Kel, actually."
"Kel, then. I'm Trent," he told her, extemnding his hand.
"I remember," she informed him, giving him her hand.
He kissed it, gallantly.
Kel couldn't help but start to blush, since she'd never come into contact with a situation such as this.
Neal had remained silently staring at Kel. She finally noticed and gave him a weird look.
"Is that really you, Kel?" he inquired.
"Of course it is," she responded, uncomfortable.
He laughed. "I couldn't tell under all that paint."
Amalia looked horrified but quickly hid it. "Idiot!" she thought to herself.
Kel looked crushed for a short moment before hiding it.
Trent watched everyone's reactions and quickly interjected, "I think youlook beautiful."
Kel gave a small smile.
"What if we get going?" Amalia suggested.
"That sounds like a good plan," Trent agreed. He offered his arm to Kel, which she hesitatingly took.
Neal watched Kel for a moment more before extending his arm to Amalia.
"Thank you, good sir. Shall we depart?" she joked, trying to rbeak the awkwardness.
"We shall, milady," he responded, picking up on her good mood.
The group entered the ball room, which was decorated beautifully, together.
"Not too bad," Neal commented. "The Ole Castle cleans up well, doesn't it."
"It sure does," Amalia answered.
The four were seated at a table next to each other for dinner. Trent and Kel remained almost silent throughout the dinner, while Amalia and Neal chatted, trying to include them.
After dinner, musicians began to play dancing music and the floor began to fill.
"Shall we?" Neal invited Amalia.
"I suppose we must."
"Why must we?"
"I don't want anyone thinking me as boring as them," she explained, pointing at Trent and Kel.
"We aren't boring, just not immature," Trent attempted to explain to her.
"If that's what you tell yourself..." Amalia trailed off, as she followed Neal.
"Before reaching the dance floor, they ran into Joren. He looked none too pleased tro see them together.
"Amalia, what a pleasure to see you," he greeated.
"And you," she answered. "So, are you surprised?" she asked, glancing at Neal.
"About what?"
"My escort."
"I still haven't seen him," Joren informed her. "I assume you don't meen Queenscove because you assured me he was a suitable escort."
"And he is," Amalia stated.
"Maybve fore the lump over there," he agreed, pointing at Kel.
Amalia narrowed her eyes. "Are you always so arrongant?"
"I'm just honest," he replied.
"Well, let me be honest. I'd take Neal to a ball over you because while he is polite and funny, you are stuck up and rude. And, don't call Kel a lump. If you'd just look at her you'd see how beautiful and amazing she is, AND.I don't' know what else, I'm just so angry with you right now I could..." she paused thinking about what she could do.
Neal, always the helpful one, handed her a goblet of wine, which without hesitation she threw in Joren's face. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to dance with my date."
Joren stood stunned before storming angrily out of the ball room. Amalia dragged Neal onto the dance floor while he laughed hysterically.
"I didn't think you had it in you," Neal confessed.
"Well, he deserved it," Amalia defended.
"No argument there," Neal agreed.
~*~ Meanwhile ~*~
Trent and Kel watched Neal and Amalia walk toward the dance floor. After a moment of silnce, Trent asked, "Would you like to dance?"
Kel shook her head.
"Are you sure?"
She nodded.
Trent shrugged. "You know, I don't think I've ever met anyone quieter than me., especially a girl. Maybe that comes from living with Amalia for so long."
Kel smiled.
"Now I know what Amalia means by me being too quiet."
"I'm sorry," Kel offered.
"It's okay. I'm shy too," Trent assured her.
"I guess two quiet people together doesn't work out very well. Amalia will be disappointed."
"I doubt it. I don't think it's us she's trying to set up."
"Oh, who then?"
"Can't you think who Amalia might want to set you up with?"
"Neal," she stated, without hesitation.
"So, you like him?" Trent inquired. He didn't really care, but he was tired of the silence and if this was the only thing she would talk about, then he would have to settle for this.
"No," she answered, too quickly.
"I figure he likes you, too."
"How do you know?"
"The way he's acting tonight."
"How's that?"
"Jealous."
"No he isn't. He likes Amalia."
"He might think she's pretty but that's just temporary...there's nothing more than that but physical attraction. Besides, she doesn't like him."
Trent suddenly realized he was gossiping like a thirteen year old girl. "Are you sure you don't want to dance?"
"I don't know how," Kel admitted. "Well, I know how to dance like a boy..."
Trent laughed. "My sister is a little lax in her teachings. That's okay, I can teach you," he decided.
"I don't know."
Trent took her hand and led her to the dance floor despite her weak protests.
"Its easy," he assured her. "It's a little like fighting. You just react to and follow your partner."
Trent firmly held Kel by the small of her back, leading her through the dance steps.
"Not so bad, is it?' he asked.
Kel watched him for a moment. "What you are you doing this?" she interrogated.
"What?"
"Coming to this ball with me? Dancing with me?"
"Because my sister asked me to go with you. As for dancing, that's usually what one does at a ball. Do you object?"
"No," Kel decided, and then focused on dancing.
~*~ Meanwhile ~*~
"Look," Amalia said, pointing out Trent and Kel moving to the dance floor. "That's so cute. He doesn't dance much."
"Yeah, cute," Neal echoed, watching Trent tighten his grip on Kel.
"Definitely nice job on my part for bringing them together."
"Don't you think he's a little old for her?"
"It's only eight years. That's about normal."
"Well, isn't she a little young to be going to balls?"
"No. She's about marrying age. Unless you think I'm too young to go to balls."
"Well, no, but she has all that training to go through."
Amalia grinned. "I do believe you're jealous!"
"ME? Of Kel? I'm not jealous, just protective. She's my best friend."
Amalia examined him closely. "No, I think you're really just jealous."
"I am not. I'd never be jealous of her. She's just one of the guys."
"ME thinks thou dost protest too much. Besides, she's obviously not one of the guys tonight."
"That's true, but tomorrow he will be," Neal pointed out.
Amalia shook her head, disappointed. "So, you like her tonight because she had the appearance of a court lady but since she'll be back to training clothes tomorrow, you don't like her?"
"I don't like her at all," Neal insisted.
Amalia glared. "You are so stubborn!"
Neal grinned. "But, I'm also polite and funny, so it's okay.
Laughing, Amalia assured him, "I didn't mean any of that. I was just saying it for Joren's benefit."
"Sure you were," Neal joked.
"I think that you are too cocky for your own good," Amalia decided. "I'm going to find a different dance partner."
"Well, Joren probably would help you out."
"Tempting, but I had someone else in mind," Amalia told him, looking over at Trent and Kel.
"I know what you're trying to do, and it wont work," Neal told her, seriously.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Amalia assured him. "I was going to spend some quality time with my brother, that's all. I haven't seen him in weeks and I want to ask him about home."
"Sure," Neal stated. "Just let it go."
"You're not any fun," Amalia stated, decidedly.
"You're too interfering," Neal informed her.
"I am not. I'm just trying to help you out."
"It's not helping."
"Fine," Amalia declared. "I don't even care anymore. If you want to be stubborn rather than happy, that's your choice." With that, she turned around and walked into the garden, to escape the crowds of people and get some fresh air.
Neal sighed and followed shortly after.
Kel noticed them leave and pointed it out to Trent.
Trent, having a bad feeling about it, said, "Ready for a little undercover work?" And started to follow them.
"Wait up," Neal called out to Amalia.
Amalia turned around. "Look, I'm sorry. I just like things to turn out well and help people. I don't try to interfere."
"Well, accept that I don't need your help, all right?"
"Fine, I'll back off," Amalia agreed.
Trent watched Kel as the conversation unfolded, to see her reaction. He could decipher nothing in her expression.
"So, want to tell me why you're so opposed?" Amalia asked Neal.
"So much for backing off," Neal commented.
Amalia laughed and rose her hands, taking small steps away from him. "See I am!"
Neal started to smile before his eyes got large. "Wait..." he tred to tell her just as Kel yelled, "Amalia..." but she'd already walked right into a tall, cloaked figure's open arms.
"You should watch where you step," came a deep male voce, as he grabbed her wrists.
Trent lunged from his hiding place, hand searching for the hilt of his sword which unfortunately wasn't an accessory he'd chosen to wear.
Amalia felt a surge of power go through her and saw bright red before everything went black.
~*~
Amalia worke to someone shaking her in the darkness. "It's still dark out, I don't want to wake up," she muttered.
"Open your eyes. It's not dark," a voice ordered.
"She unwillingly opened her eyes, slightly, but quickly closed them as her eyes didt adjust to the flood of sunlight quickly enough.
"Come on Amalia," the voice encouraged.
She gave it another shot, keeping her eyes opened until they were focused. She looked around the unfamiliar setting to find a bare, stoen room, with a dirt floor and large wooden floor. The few windows of the room were barred off. She found the source of the voice, Trent.
"Where the hell are we?" she asked, sitting up.
"I don't know. We were all unconscious after that guy used his gift."
"Is that what that was?"
"Yeah, are you all right?"
"I think so," she replied. "My head feels like it wsa shattered into a million pieces, but I'll be fine."
"Good," Trent stated with relief.
"What happened? Where are Neal and Kel? Who was that?" Amalia asked in rapid secession.
"I don't know, against the wall over there, and probably the man that everyone has been trying to protect you from."
"What? Protect me?"
"The reaon you were sent to the castle. For protection. We were hoping to top the prophesy."
"What prophesy?"
"Many years ago, an ancient oracle prophesized of our coming. I forget the entirety of it now, but the warning signs of us coming were when the lion became a lioness, the immortals returning, and animals thinking for themselves. We were supposed to come then. Two siblings, the boy was to be a great warrior, and a girl...both with ice blue eyes and coal colored hair."
"And that's us?"
"Well, we weren't sure until recently but Numair and Daine did some research and strongly believe it is us. And now, with us being kidnapped there isn't a doubt in my mind."
"Wait, you said the boy was to be a warrior. What is the girl supposed to be?"
"The Balance," a voice from outside the room spoke up.
Amalia looked around startled. "What?"
Then, to her shock, a man covered with a black cloak, walked through the wall into the room.
"You are to be The Balance. The one that is good and evil to make sure neither becomes too powerful."
"How am I supposed to do that?" she inquired.
"You have many powers hidden inside," he explained. "But we will retrieve them so you can meet your destiny."
"I think you must have the wrong girl," Amalia explained. "There's nothing special about me."
"But there is. We just have to find the power."
"I don't want it. I cant be a balance. I don't know how. Besides, I want good to be stronger."
"Come my dear, you don't mean that, do you?"
"Of course I do," Amalia declared, indignant.
"You are smart enough to know that for there to be a good, there must be an evil for it to fight. Without the bad there is no good and without a balance there is neither."
