Heya, people of the T.P world! I'm back from Greece, more inspired than
ever and about to drop a big big big bombshell on those of you who thought
last chapter meant a happy ending! As if I would be that kind ! *scoffs at
ignorance of world* I've written the next chapter as well so be expecting
that soon, despite the fact I'm supposed to be revising for my GCSEs! Ah
well, life's never fair, eh? Just to let you know that this is a
continuation of the last chapter and so is entitled Players II.
Disclaimer: Might as well get this over and done with. I own nothing except the plot, the random bird and Daraun. Got it? Good.
XXX: Thank you for your continuous reviews, and yes since you were number 65 I am giving you another chapter! Holiday was very good, but Greece was cold! How's your holiday? See you soon! : )
Rhapsody07: You like fluff? Good. Thanks for the encouragement!
Dracos Myth: I'm trying to give the D/N relationship a slightly different perspective - I'm glad you like it. Thanks!
JMJ: Thank you! Have updated!
Numair's Daine: Cheers! Love your story so ecstatic that you like mine! (P.S. Chapter 16 - what's going on there?) : D
Princess Bubblegum: Yes, it is updated! Why do I keep trying to kill Daine? I do not know - I'm simply the vassal for a Muse!
Carolyn: Thank you for reviewing - was much appreciated!
Anic: I got a WHOA! Thanks. Must mean story is some good.
SHABbY: Is that how you be spelling your name? Anyway, Thank you!
Players II
There, beyond the trees. She could see him now and silently picked her way towards him through the scattered undergrowth that grew untamed in the dense, loamy soil of the shady forest floor. Daine lifted her nose to the warm currents of air that flowed around her, recognising the rich scents of animal musk, pine trees, great oaks and the moisture that subtly aided the decomposition of fallen matter. A small smile touched her lips as she fondly recalled memories of patiently being taught this in her lessons by her teacher, who she just happened to be going to see now. A thrill raced through her veins at that thought, making her tingle with gentle yearning.
"Lessons could prove to be very interesting in the future," she murmured softly, smiling coyly to herself. She was certain that Numair would take her back; he loved her, of that she was sure, and soon he too would know that she loved him as well. Once that was clear, nothing could stop them being together.
A lark called out greetings from nearby and fluttered down to land on Daine's outstretched finger, chirping good-naturedly. Greetings, Wing- sister Daine addressed the bird softly. I trust I find you well?
The bird chattered its beak in a silent laugh. I am fine. Are you looking for the Stork-man?
Daine dipped her head slightly. That I am
The lark felt the quivering anticipation and excitement of Daine's feelings travelling along the vines of copper magic that connected the two of them. Jumping of Daine's finger, she pumped her tiny wings until she hovered at the same height as the girl's face. In that case I won't keep you from your mate. I hope we will meet again soon With that she flew off, coasting along the hazy edge of a line of trees.
Daine watched the bird's retreating form until it was no more than a distant speck on blue crystal. Her cheeks had grown warm with the lark's last comments. 'My mate? I s'pose you could put it that way,' she mused silently as she continued to find a path out of the dusky shadows towards Numair, her Numair.
She stepped out of the trees and breathed in awe at the beauty of the vista that lay before her. The clearing was steeped in liquid splendour and the dying rays of the sun reflected off the many facets of the turbulent brook's surface, shrouding her love in an ethereal golden light. He stood ankle deep in the swirling waters, his sable hair seeking solace in the few shadows that the light afforded. His dark skin glowed gently as a soft fire spilled from his open palms like a wave. Eyes shut, he almost appeared to be praying.
Reluctantly, Daine realised that she couldn't shatter this image that could capture all the beauty the earth possessed, and sighing regretfully, she turned to go. Her gentle sigh caught on the breeze and before she could slip away unnoticed he turned, meeting her light gaze with his own dark eyes.
"Magelet," he breathed. Neither of them dared to move lest the spell be broken.
" I love you, Numair." Her soft whisper reached his ears and a smile of wonder and love crept across his features and hesitantly he began to move towards her, treading softly at first then breaking into a run as she too moved swiftly towards his open arms. Then his arms were around her, his lips in her hair, her nose in his shirt, drawing his scent into her. She heard a sigh and lifted her face to look at him, surprised to see the unshed tears glittering in the ebony depths of his eyes.
"Daine, I'm sorry for what I said . . ."
"Hush," she silenced him with a gentle kiss. "Everything's going to be fine." Refusing to think about her impending demise, she traced the outline of his soft lips with her fingertip as the courting-dances of the shadows at dusk swayed around them. Love and yearning for this man who held her ran so deep inside Daine she wondered why she hadn't recognised them for what they were earlier.
The mouth which she traced lowered and lips met lips as the world around them faded. Oblivious to everything but each other, the two lovers unleashed a passion that was insatiable in its demands, hands tentatively exploring, lips willingly discovering. She turned in his arms, her back pressed against his warm, muscled chest, finding safety and desire in the way his kisses were one moment so gentle and tender, and the next moment so insistent. His hand slipped under her shirt, long fingers trailing teasingly across her sensitive stomach. Her senses were aflame, his simple touch leading her into a nameless delirium that filled her blood with a sweetness and warmth that raced through her body. She didn't think she could stand any longer.
A crash nearby caused the birds to rise from their trees, voicing their objections in a manner piercing enough to rouse Daine and Numair from their trances. They saw a lone figure trying to move away through the forest inconspicuously. Though his step was hurried and unsure.
"Horse Lords," whispered Daine guiltily. "I'd better stop whoever it is elsewise we're going to have to do a lot of explaining."
The strong arms around her waist pulled back at those words, and the warm presence behind her backed away a step or two. Haunted by a feeling of foreboding, the girl turned quickly to face Numair, her eyes expressing her concern.
"What is it, Numair? Don't tell me I've said the wrong thing again." Her voice held a subtle plea, unintentional but relaying her feelings all the same.
"No, sweetling, no." her teacher shook his head, but avoided her questioning gaze, his cheeks colouring beneath the swarthy surface. "I'm angry with myself. I feel that by doing what I just did, what we may have done, I'm taking advantage of you. I'm letting my desire dictate my actions."
He wasn't even facing her now; Daine felt her heart wrench, sick with fear. "No," she said forcefully. "I wanted that just as much as you did. Besides," she added as an afterthought, "If you can not be ruled by your desire, then nor can I, and that serves no-one any good."
Numair saw that he could not win this argument and smiled weakly at her. Stepping forward he embraced her one last time. "Gods, I love you, magelet. I do still think that - " seeing her face fall in understanding of what he was about to say, he bit his tongue. "- but never mind."
Relief swamped Daine, hope surging through her as she thought that maybe he understood how foolish his qualms were. She didn't want to leave his arms but supposed that she had best return to the palace before she was missed. Drawing away she explained this much to Numair. He nodded his agreement and touching his mouth to hers with restrained passion, he retreated to stand in the water once again, watching her wistfully as she departed.
Daine was approaching the practice courts with a secret, coy smile curving her lips when a hand reached out and grabbed her arm. Stifling a shriek, she reached for her dagger as she spun around, only to meet the green eyes of Daraun, one of her old swains. Confused she sent him a questioningly look, eyebrows arched.
"Daine . . ." he began, obviously uncomfortable. "I, um, followed you into the forest earlier because I, er, wanted to speak with you." He flushed, seeing the indignant look that marred her features briefly, flickering like a candle flame, but he would not let her interrupt him. "I saw you and Master Salmalin together, kissing." His eyes were steady, looking straight at her, but his troubled breathing suggested that she wouldn't like what he was going to say next. Trepidation crept into her mind, and casting its barbs, remained there, both painful and fearful. She flinched as he rested a gentle hand on the side of her face. "As a friend, I'm warning you, Daine. Don't fall in love with Master Numair - I know what he's like; once he's bedded you, once he's stopped playing with you, he'll stop loving you."
Daine was struck dumb by his words and the trepidation grew to loathing. She wrenched herself away from his hold, all but spitting at his feet. Righteous anger seized her, fury radiating off her as Daraun took a step backwards, startled by her violent reaction. She gave voice to her fear, her anger and her loss, rage lacing every word.
"No! I don't believe you - get away from me!"
*****
Numair placed his hand on Daine's cheek, hurt when she flinched away. His complexion had whitened to a pallor that told everyone just how scared he really was, and the black smudges that ringed his eyes were evidence enough that he had not been sleeping. For once though, he didn't care about his appearance. His magelet had nearly died and no-one really knew why, excluding himself; he had been questioned, but he wouldn't tell - Daine wouldn't want him to.
"I love you, Daine" he murmured, the words meant for her ears alone. She was silent for a moment, then jerked away from him, thrashing wildly in her sheets.
"No! I don't believe you - get away from me!"
Numair stood there for a second, stunned by her outburst. The pain started slowly, but then became quicker, icy claws digging into his flesh, burning him. She didn't love him. It was too much to bear; he couldn't stay here and look at her beautiful face knowing that she despised him. Hating the world, hating himself, he turned and walked out of the infirmary, the door swinging shut behind him.
*****
Daine awoke from her dream suddenly, echoes of Numair's voice in her mid and his scent still lingering in the air. Turning onto her side, she looked for him, expecting him to be next to her bed, but all she saw was the door swinging shut.
You can't tell me that you were expecting that - I won't believe you!!!!! Are you annoyed with me because the romance scene between Daine and Numair was just a dream? Never mind, just send me your thoughts via a little purple box down there at the bottom!
Disclaimer: Might as well get this over and done with. I own nothing except the plot, the random bird and Daraun. Got it? Good.
XXX: Thank you for your continuous reviews, and yes since you were number 65 I am giving you another chapter! Holiday was very good, but Greece was cold! How's your holiday? See you soon! : )
Rhapsody07: You like fluff? Good. Thanks for the encouragement!
Dracos Myth: I'm trying to give the D/N relationship a slightly different perspective - I'm glad you like it. Thanks!
JMJ: Thank you! Have updated!
Numair's Daine: Cheers! Love your story so ecstatic that you like mine! (P.S. Chapter 16 - what's going on there?) : D
Princess Bubblegum: Yes, it is updated! Why do I keep trying to kill Daine? I do not know - I'm simply the vassal for a Muse!
Carolyn: Thank you for reviewing - was much appreciated!
Anic: I got a WHOA! Thanks. Must mean story is some good.
SHABbY: Is that how you be spelling your name? Anyway, Thank you!
Players II
There, beyond the trees. She could see him now and silently picked her way towards him through the scattered undergrowth that grew untamed in the dense, loamy soil of the shady forest floor. Daine lifted her nose to the warm currents of air that flowed around her, recognising the rich scents of animal musk, pine trees, great oaks and the moisture that subtly aided the decomposition of fallen matter. A small smile touched her lips as she fondly recalled memories of patiently being taught this in her lessons by her teacher, who she just happened to be going to see now. A thrill raced through her veins at that thought, making her tingle with gentle yearning.
"Lessons could prove to be very interesting in the future," she murmured softly, smiling coyly to herself. She was certain that Numair would take her back; he loved her, of that she was sure, and soon he too would know that she loved him as well. Once that was clear, nothing could stop them being together.
A lark called out greetings from nearby and fluttered down to land on Daine's outstretched finger, chirping good-naturedly. Greetings, Wing- sister Daine addressed the bird softly. I trust I find you well?
The bird chattered its beak in a silent laugh. I am fine. Are you looking for the Stork-man?
Daine dipped her head slightly. That I am
The lark felt the quivering anticipation and excitement of Daine's feelings travelling along the vines of copper magic that connected the two of them. Jumping of Daine's finger, she pumped her tiny wings until she hovered at the same height as the girl's face. In that case I won't keep you from your mate. I hope we will meet again soon With that she flew off, coasting along the hazy edge of a line of trees.
Daine watched the bird's retreating form until it was no more than a distant speck on blue crystal. Her cheeks had grown warm with the lark's last comments. 'My mate? I s'pose you could put it that way,' she mused silently as she continued to find a path out of the dusky shadows towards Numair, her Numair.
She stepped out of the trees and breathed in awe at the beauty of the vista that lay before her. The clearing was steeped in liquid splendour and the dying rays of the sun reflected off the many facets of the turbulent brook's surface, shrouding her love in an ethereal golden light. He stood ankle deep in the swirling waters, his sable hair seeking solace in the few shadows that the light afforded. His dark skin glowed gently as a soft fire spilled from his open palms like a wave. Eyes shut, he almost appeared to be praying.
Reluctantly, Daine realised that she couldn't shatter this image that could capture all the beauty the earth possessed, and sighing regretfully, she turned to go. Her gentle sigh caught on the breeze and before she could slip away unnoticed he turned, meeting her light gaze with his own dark eyes.
"Magelet," he breathed. Neither of them dared to move lest the spell be broken.
" I love you, Numair." Her soft whisper reached his ears and a smile of wonder and love crept across his features and hesitantly he began to move towards her, treading softly at first then breaking into a run as she too moved swiftly towards his open arms. Then his arms were around her, his lips in her hair, her nose in his shirt, drawing his scent into her. She heard a sigh and lifted her face to look at him, surprised to see the unshed tears glittering in the ebony depths of his eyes.
"Daine, I'm sorry for what I said . . ."
"Hush," she silenced him with a gentle kiss. "Everything's going to be fine." Refusing to think about her impending demise, she traced the outline of his soft lips with her fingertip as the courting-dances of the shadows at dusk swayed around them. Love and yearning for this man who held her ran so deep inside Daine she wondered why she hadn't recognised them for what they were earlier.
The mouth which she traced lowered and lips met lips as the world around them faded. Oblivious to everything but each other, the two lovers unleashed a passion that was insatiable in its demands, hands tentatively exploring, lips willingly discovering. She turned in his arms, her back pressed against his warm, muscled chest, finding safety and desire in the way his kisses were one moment so gentle and tender, and the next moment so insistent. His hand slipped under her shirt, long fingers trailing teasingly across her sensitive stomach. Her senses were aflame, his simple touch leading her into a nameless delirium that filled her blood with a sweetness and warmth that raced through her body. She didn't think she could stand any longer.
A crash nearby caused the birds to rise from their trees, voicing their objections in a manner piercing enough to rouse Daine and Numair from their trances. They saw a lone figure trying to move away through the forest inconspicuously. Though his step was hurried and unsure.
"Horse Lords," whispered Daine guiltily. "I'd better stop whoever it is elsewise we're going to have to do a lot of explaining."
The strong arms around her waist pulled back at those words, and the warm presence behind her backed away a step or two. Haunted by a feeling of foreboding, the girl turned quickly to face Numair, her eyes expressing her concern.
"What is it, Numair? Don't tell me I've said the wrong thing again." Her voice held a subtle plea, unintentional but relaying her feelings all the same.
"No, sweetling, no." her teacher shook his head, but avoided her questioning gaze, his cheeks colouring beneath the swarthy surface. "I'm angry with myself. I feel that by doing what I just did, what we may have done, I'm taking advantage of you. I'm letting my desire dictate my actions."
He wasn't even facing her now; Daine felt her heart wrench, sick with fear. "No," she said forcefully. "I wanted that just as much as you did. Besides," she added as an afterthought, "If you can not be ruled by your desire, then nor can I, and that serves no-one any good."
Numair saw that he could not win this argument and smiled weakly at her. Stepping forward he embraced her one last time. "Gods, I love you, magelet. I do still think that - " seeing her face fall in understanding of what he was about to say, he bit his tongue. "- but never mind."
Relief swamped Daine, hope surging through her as she thought that maybe he understood how foolish his qualms were. She didn't want to leave his arms but supposed that she had best return to the palace before she was missed. Drawing away she explained this much to Numair. He nodded his agreement and touching his mouth to hers with restrained passion, he retreated to stand in the water once again, watching her wistfully as she departed.
Daine was approaching the practice courts with a secret, coy smile curving her lips when a hand reached out and grabbed her arm. Stifling a shriek, she reached for her dagger as she spun around, only to meet the green eyes of Daraun, one of her old swains. Confused she sent him a questioningly look, eyebrows arched.
"Daine . . ." he began, obviously uncomfortable. "I, um, followed you into the forest earlier because I, er, wanted to speak with you." He flushed, seeing the indignant look that marred her features briefly, flickering like a candle flame, but he would not let her interrupt him. "I saw you and Master Salmalin together, kissing." His eyes were steady, looking straight at her, but his troubled breathing suggested that she wouldn't like what he was going to say next. Trepidation crept into her mind, and casting its barbs, remained there, both painful and fearful. She flinched as he rested a gentle hand on the side of her face. "As a friend, I'm warning you, Daine. Don't fall in love with Master Numair - I know what he's like; once he's bedded you, once he's stopped playing with you, he'll stop loving you."
Daine was struck dumb by his words and the trepidation grew to loathing. She wrenched herself away from his hold, all but spitting at his feet. Righteous anger seized her, fury radiating off her as Daraun took a step backwards, startled by her violent reaction. She gave voice to her fear, her anger and her loss, rage lacing every word.
"No! I don't believe you - get away from me!"
*****
Numair placed his hand on Daine's cheek, hurt when she flinched away. His complexion had whitened to a pallor that told everyone just how scared he really was, and the black smudges that ringed his eyes were evidence enough that he had not been sleeping. For once though, he didn't care about his appearance. His magelet had nearly died and no-one really knew why, excluding himself; he had been questioned, but he wouldn't tell - Daine wouldn't want him to.
"I love you, Daine" he murmured, the words meant for her ears alone. She was silent for a moment, then jerked away from him, thrashing wildly in her sheets.
"No! I don't believe you - get away from me!"
Numair stood there for a second, stunned by her outburst. The pain started slowly, but then became quicker, icy claws digging into his flesh, burning him. She didn't love him. It was too much to bear; he couldn't stay here and look at her beautiful face knowing that she despised him. Hating the world, hating himself, he turned and walked out of the infirmary, the door swinging shut behind him.
*****
Daine awoke from her dream suddenly, echoes of Numair's voice in her mid and his scent still lingering in the air. Turning onto her side, she looked for him, expecting him to be next to her bed, but all she saw was the door swinging shut.
You can't tell me that you were expecting that - I won't believe you!!!!! Are you annoyed with me because the romance scene between Daine and Numair was just a dream? Never mind, just send me your thoughts via a little purple box down there at the bottom!