In the Flames I Shall Go
PLEASE READ EVERY AUTHOR'S NOTE BECAUSE THEY ARE IMPORTANT!!!
Author's Note: THIS IS GOING TO BE ONE LONG CHAPTER. IT IS 2,660 WORDS!!!! (that's very long, according to me - my limit is supposing 1,500 words) *sigh* I can never help myself. I must have some kind of problem with extending stories. *starts dialling number to psychiatric centre* KEEP ON READING. I don't like quitters! The starts are always boring in my stories. *writes on list - problem no.2: can never write good starts* Also there is a bit of court dancing, and i don't know how the hell they danced at that time!!!!
Thank you to all my first reviewers - appreciate it 'because this is my first/second fanfic
Daniko - lol! I updated this chapters especially for you! j/k. I did it for everyone who reviewed - im really self-conscious and sometimes I think I haven't done my best. So thanx for the support!
Lady Jilly Bean - thanx for your offer of help.I'm pretty sure I'll need it in future chapters!
BreezeWalker - I find using 'said' sooo boring, thanx for reviewing!
Me (Xela - I know its you!) - Thanx for that review! You're an ungrateful wrench! lol
clarylissa - I made Diane a baroness because i need Daine to become a more important person so everyone at court will accept her for what she is (what the hell is she? *sigh* oh well)
Maria - It's my habit to but in single quotations - I'm one unique person. Lol. Thanx heaps for the tip, though. I'll keep that in mind next time i start another story *winks conspicuously*
Keita - roflmao! (rolling on floor laughing ma ass off!) i reckon! I can't simply because this was meant to be written between the third and fourth book. *gives a puppy look* i would make her change it, cept that she doesn't know that her dad is a god!
Keita (again!) - Same! I hate stories being so stereotypical!!!!! No offence for whoever does write predictable stories. Thanx for the compliment, Keita!
Sugar - thanx for the support. I need that kind of thing (after putting this on fanfic, my self-esteem dropped by 50% *groans*)
**** - I had to introduce the setting, make sure Numair wasn't with Daine, Daine being the baroness *takes another breath* and decide who was to go with her! Yeah, i agree! I think ppl who use 'said' to many times really need to change their writing technique (yippee! Im not the only one with problems!). I know how it feels to have that kind of story
Chapter 3
Daine looked herself in the bedroom mirror for the sixth time that day.
The apartment she was residing in was large, spacious and elegant. The furniture was richly adorned with silks and plush cushions. Her very bed was massive and had a canopy of light velvets and silks. Her bedroom was accompanied with a finely made pair of (a.n: French, if it were possible) doors leading to a balcony. Daine could see a luscious, colourful well- looked after courtyard (a.n: which was accessible through the back doors). To go with her apartment, Daine had a wardrobe arrayed with various gowns of expensive taste. To add to the gowns were the jewellery. Daine had three miniature chests filled to the brim with rings, necklaces, pins, jewelled head bands (a.n: can be called small head dresses), bracelets and richly decorated belts.
Daine was nervous because an Imperial Ball was to be held to honour those of the Tortall delegation- and she was the highest ranked in the entrustment. Her Carthak maids (Daine had forbidden slaves to tend to her needs) dressed Daine up in a dark red (a.n: maroon) brocade with sweeping Dalmatian sleeves and a heavily embroidered border of golden leaves and crystal daises. She had a beautiful gold and ruby broach fastened to her neckline. Gold thread adorned the folds of snowy shimmering silk that was hung from the waist of Daine's striking gown. Her hair was down up with a net made of gold, laced with pearls. Her neck wore a gold clasp that boasted three large rubies whilst her hand held many gold bracelets, some including small rubies to complete its design. The only ring Daine wore, which consisted of a diamond with fire in it, was given to her by Numair. It was to protect her from dieing of food poisoning.
'Daine!? Are you ready? Hurry up, would you.' Gareth's voice could be heard from down the corridor.
'It everything all right, my lady?' One of her maids said uncertainly.
Daine smiled at her concern. 'Thank you, Agnes, for caring. I am fine, just a bit nervous.'
'Would you like me to escort you to the antechamber of the Ball Room, my lady? asked Agnes.
'I'd love you to, but consequently, Lord Martin has already taken that privilege. Thank you.' Daine had a small smile tugging her mouth.
Lord Martin and Gareth the Younger were waiting outside her apartments, both ready to go.
Gareth bowed mockingly and offered his gloved hand. 'My Lady, it would be a pleasure to escort you to the Ball.' (a.n: i thought it was Lord Martin who was supposed to *sigh*) Daine grinned in return and easily placed her hand on top of his. Unfortunately Gareth's glove was made of fine velvet.
'You had to use those damnable velvet gloves, didn't you?' Daine snapped playfully, but was fully aware of how much her hand itched. (a.n: Daine swears?)
Lord Martin's eyes lit playfully. 'Get used to it, Gareth does it to all of the court ladies!' At that comment Gareth rolled his rolls.
'For your information, I wore velvet gloves because they matched my breaches.' Gareth snapped. 'I was only trying to be gentlemanly.'
By the time Gareth had finished that sentence, they arrived at the entrance of the Ballroom. The hall was magnificent. Crystal shades lit the room to a certain degree. The tables were draped with silk and satin. The tableware on the higher tables was made of gold and crystal. On the lower tables was silver crockery. Red velvet curtains were draped along the walls. Each table seated ten nobles. Only the higher tables were seated for five.
Daine, Lord Martin and Gareth the Younger were guided by a slave to a table right up front. It took Daine a moment to realize that she was the most important Tortall guest present (a.n: she was invited in her own rights by Kaddar). As they settled down on their splendidly adorned chairs (a.n: more like thrones) Emperor Kaddar walked through the entrance and straight their way.
Strangely enough, Daine's heart beat faster as she caught sight of him. This time he wore a short cloak of cloth of gold over a cream and gold brocade doublet. His breaches were made up of cream and maroon with gold wiring all through it. As always, Kaddar was strung with jewellery everywhere. He had a ruby drops in each ear and a band of gold laced with rubies around his neck. This time Kaddar had no bracelets, just one large, ornamental armlet which was probably the most expensive piece of jewellery Daine had ever seen.
The young Emperor walked over to Daine, grinned and sat down. Daine was overwhelmingly shocked that Kaddar had chosen to sit next her, out of all the people! Following suit, another young noble of the same age seated himself between Gareth the Younger and Kaddar.
He must be Kaddar's closest advisor. Daine thought.
'Good evening, Daine? Beside me is Richard, Duke of Westsmith (a.n: what a name).'
Richard grinned good-naturally towards Daine and the other two nobles. 'Pleased to meet you, I'm sure. I'll take part of the peace conferences as well.'
'Richard sounds friendly and forthcoming, Kaddar. You made a good choice I must say, your majesty.' Daine spoke directly to Kaddar.
'He sure is. I'm lucky to have someone like him around. I need all the support I can get.' Abruptly, Kaddar changed the subject. 'Daine, it is hardly necessary to address me with such formality. No, don't look at me like that. I had to be distant at such occasions when there are nobles present. Now,' Kaddar looked more relaxed 'I've read your letters but haven't heard the news from your own mouth. Please keep me up to date. Please?' This time Kaddar made sure he had a puppy dog expression on his face.
Daine couldn't resist a small laugh. 'Actually Kaddar, I kinda forgot what I wrote in those letters.' Concerned, Daine got straight to the thing bothering her. 'Kaddar, how have you been? How's court and being emperor and everything? Are you coping? Do you think you can manage?'
'Here come all the questions.' Clearly amused. 'At first I found I had such a work load, with the famine and the royal palace in ruins.' Kaddar stopped to give Daine a ridicule death-glare. 'My friends are always by my side to help.' Sighing the youth said 'The problem is that some of those willing to give support think me a puppet, something to bend to their will. And i will not tolerate that kind of attitude. I'm sick of being tricked and played with.'
Daine nodded understanding. 'It's good to have you around again. I need someone I can completely belief me. I just don't know who to trust.' Kaddar carried off distraughtly.
'Kaddar,' Daine held his hand under hers. 'I'll always be here when you need me. If Ozourne could be Emperor, I'm sure you'll do just as good, even better.' At this point, Daine looked across to where her companions were sitting. Both of them seemed to be in deep conversation with Richard. Also, slaves came streaming in with the first course (a.n: In my world there are no entrée's).
Three slaves came to the Emperor's table serving a vegetable Carthak delicacy. The first slave cleared his throat and said while bowing low - 'Your Imperial Highness, My Lady and Lords, may I serve you?'
Sighing, for Kaddar didn't feel like acting as the country's Emperor, he waved his hand to continue to serve them.
Realizing for the first time that Kitten has not accompanied Daine, Kaddar asked Daine 'I just noticed, Daine, where is your dragon?'
Laughing, Daine responded 'Kitten met a couple of interested scholars. She likes getting attention, clearly unlike me!' At this Kaddar snorted in his food.
'Unfortunately for me, I attract attention wherever I go.' Kaddar said, grinning. Daine made a face at him, which looked rather peculiar in all her finery. Utter comprehension hit him. Daine was dressed up in the most stunning clothes he had ever seen her wear, he had not even realized at the wharf. She also coincidentally wore the same appealing colours as him. He felt awful in the inside, for not commenting earlier on her new outfit. 'Daine! It's just come to my attention, you looking stunning.' Kaddar was sure he spoke truth, for she looked perfect to him.
Daine blushed at the sudden observation. 'Forgive me for the sudden remark. But, as it is, you do deserve the compliment!' Kaddar quickly added.
'Well, The King and Queen felt that as my new title, I must dress accordingly.' At this point Daine paused to roll her eyes. 'It was my responsibility to organise the new wardrobe. I hired seamstresses and tiring maids to fit my gowns. Alanna, The Lioness, took me out to by my jewellery - surprisingly Alanna seemed to be interested in such feminine habits.' Daine added as an afterthought.
'I had hoped the clothes the seamstresses and I designed the write gowns to match my figure. If I can impress the Emperor of Carthak, I guess i designed the right gown!'
'You shouldn't think me as the Emperor of Carthak, but as your friend and from now, your constant companion.' Clearly amused and annoyed at the same time. (a.n: how the hell do you do both at the same time!? Oh well)
By this time, all six courses had come and gone. The dancing had commenced. 'Would you care for a dance, my lady?' Kaddar used the same mocking tone Gareth used in her sometimes.
Just as well Alanna had given me a few practical dance lessons. Daine thought gingerly as she took the hand Kaddar held out for her. She was fully aware of all the stares the majority of courtiers gave her, as Kaddar led her to the dance floor (a.n: sounds like a disco to me!).
It seemed Kaddar had also noticed. 'Ignore them, Daine. The majority of them are single-minded, selfish idiots.' Daine grinned, still wishing that they would all stop staring. 'They can't do anything while I'm emperor. Don't let them ruin tonight, Daine.'
Daine was concentrating more on the dance, then listening to Kaddar's reassurance. In front of the whole Carthak court, Daine wanted to make a good impression. After awhile, the new baroness managed to get the hang of it.
'So, have you an eye on any particular lady of court?' Daine asked mischievously. Daine's right arm held the young emperor's left arm. His arm was around her slim waist and Daine's arm was around his neck.
'You wish, Daine. All the ladies at court are the average smug, arrogant noble. Besides, uncle wouldn't let me associate with any of them, not that I wanted to. You? Have you been involved with any man at court?' It seemed that Daine wasn't the only curious one.
'Me? Of course not, as if any noble man would be interested in me!' Daine seemed so sure that she was as insignificant as she said, thought Kaddar.
'You'd be surprised, you know. Though I doubt Numair would of let any man so much as flirt with you.' Kaddar said this while remembering the day Numair warned Kaddar not to meddle with Daine.
Daine grinned, also remembering that day. 'He can be so humiliating some times.' Kaddar laughed outright.
The dance ended and Kaddar led Daine back to their table. 'Listen. I'll be leaving now; I like to have early nights (a.n: NO! He has never had an affair with any women). But before I go, tomorrow and the day after are free of any peace negotiations - I'd like to take you somewhere. After all, you are my guest and not part of the Tortall Peace Delegation. Would you like to visit the palace training yards? I could work on my archery, and since you're a noble you could try the short sword.'
'I'd love to. I never knew how much difference being a noble could be. Thank you, Kaddar. I know how much work duty calls. Sorry, if you did have some work to do.' Daine responded gratefully.
'Don't worry, Daine. It's my choice, not Carthak's. It's more enjoyable with you around. Here have this; it's my gift to you.' Kaddar took off his ornamental arm band and pressed it in Daine's hand. Surprisingly, he bowed slightly, took Daine's hand, kissed it gently and made to leave. To have an Emperor give something of his to you, bow and kiss your hand was quite a surprise to Daine.
'Daine, would you like a dance.' Gareth's friendly voice could be heard behind her. (a.n: NO, don't even think that. Gareth was only being friendly.)
Daine continued to dance for the next hour, with Carthak and Tortall courtiers. At last, she was too fatigued to continue.
Daine curtsied to Richard (a.n: Duke of Westsmith), her last dancing partner, and like Kaddar, made to leave.
**** How was that? BE WARNED! I bet I'll get carried off again with future and could be even longer then this (I seriously doubt that). Keep reading and reviewing!!!!
I've also written a Harry Potter story. *blushes* I think this fanfic is better then my Harry Potter one. I incorporated 'good warlocks' into it.
Here is why - (this is a paragraph from my Hp story)
Harry remembered the day Hermione told Harry just how special they were- 'Legend has it that *Slazenger* Slytherin had a loyal, but powerful friend. His name was Albany Dutrem. The term 'Warlock' was given to Dutrem when he supported the mass destruction Slytherin made. Albany Dutrem had a special gift. It let him see into people's spirits or what he called 'vines' and control them to his will. Warlocks today have never had as much power as 'the Warlock' himself. After experiencing massacre after massacre, Albany Dutrem was sick of all the evil, malevolence and immorality Slytherin had formed. Dutrem changed sides and became full of...of the Gryffindor properties- brave, valiant and willing to sacrifice themselves for others. The gift of Dutrem, as it's now called, is passed from a unique, not to mention cerebral way. The one chosen for the gift of Dutrem will have one, and only one vision. In this vision, it is known, that Albany Dutrem visits and tells of your destiny and fate if you wish to accept his gift. It is also known that if you accept or decline, either, you are forbidden to tell your fate to anyone unless being with the gift of Dutrem themselves.
As I will say again, I can never start a story right. My Hp story, chapter 1 is the worst chapter I have ever made.but it gets better!
Here is the link -
Please read
NOTE: HAVE ANY OF MY REVIEWERS READ SARA DOUGLASS? I need to know what would an appropriate name for a sword.StarDrifter, CloudBurst, EvenStar or DragonStar????
Adios mi amigos! izzy
PLEASE READ EVERY AUTHOR'S NOTE BECAUSE THEY ARE IMPORTANT!!!
Author's Note: THIS IS GOING TO BE ONE LONG CHAPTER. IT IS 2,660 WORDS!!!! (that's very long, according to me - my limit is supposing 1,500 words) *sigh* I can never help myself. I must have some kind of problem with extending stories. *starts dialling number to psychiatric centre* KEEP ON READING. I don't like quitters! The starts are always boring in my stories. *writes on list - problem no.2: can never write good starts* Also there is a bit of court dancing, and i don't know how the hell they danced at that time!!!!
Thank you to all my first reviewers - appreciate it 'because this is my first/second fanfic
Daniko - lol! I updated this chapters especially for you! j/k. I did it for everyone who reviewed - im really self-conscious and sometimes I think I haven't done my best. So thanx for the support!
Lady Jilly Bean - thanx for your offer of help.I'm pretty sure I'll need it in future chapters!
BreezeWalker - I find using 'said' sooo boring, thanx for reviewing!
Me (Xela - I know its you!) - Thanx for that review! You're an ungrateful wrench! lol
clarylissa - I made Diane a baroness because i need Daine to become a more important person so everyone at court will accept her for what she is (what the hell is she? *sigh* oh well)
Maria - It's my habit to but in single quotations - I'm one unique person. Lol. Thanx heaps for the tip, though. I'll keep that in mind next time i start another story *winks conspicuously*
Keita - roflmao! (rolling on floor laughing ma ass off!) i reckon! I can't simply because this was meant to be written between the third and fourth book. *gives a puppy look* i would make her change it, cept that she doesn't know that her dad is a god!
Keita (again!) - Same! I hate stories being so stereotypical!!!!! No offence for whoever does write predictable stories. Thanx for the compliment, Keita!
Sugar - thanx for the support. I need that kind of thing (after putting this on fanfic, my self-esteem dropped by 50% *groans*)
**** - I had to introduce the setting, make sure Numair wasn't with Daine, Daine being the baroness *takes another breath* and decide who was to go with her! Yeah, i agree! I think ppl who use 'said' to many times really need to change their writing technique (yippee! Im not the only one with problems!). I know how it feels to have that kind of story
Chapter 3
Daine looked herself in the bedroom mirror for the sixth time that day.
The apartment she was residing in was large, spacious and elegant. The furniture was richly adorned with silks and plush cushions. Her very bed was massive and had a canopy of light velvets and silks. Her bedroom was accompanied with a finely made pair of (a.n: French, if it were possible) doors leading to a balcony. Daine could see a luscious, colourful well- looked after courtyard (a.n: which was accessible through the back doors). To go with her apartment, Daine had a wardrobe arrayed with various gowns of expensive taste. To add to the gowns were the jewellery. Daine had three miniature chests filled to the brim with rings, necklaces, pins, jewelled head bands (a.n: can be called small head dresses), bracelets and richly decorated belts.
Daine was nervous because an Imperial Ball was to be held to honour those of the Tortall delegation- and she was the highest ranked in the entrustment. Her Carthak maids (Daine had forbidden slaves to tend to her needs) dressed Daine up in a dark red (a.n: maroon) brocade with sweeping Dalmatian sleeves and a heavily embroidered border of golden leaves and crystal daises. She had a beautiful gold and ruby broach fastened to her neckline. Gold thread adorned the folds of snowy shimmering silk that was hung from the waist of Daine's striking gown. Her hair was down up with a net made of gold, laced with pearls. Her neck wore a gold clasp that boasted three large rubies whilst her hand held many gold bracelets, some including small rubies to complete its design. The only ring Daine wore, which consisted of a diamond with fire in it, was given to her by Numair. It was to protect her from dieing of food poisoning.
'Daine!? Are you ready? Hurry up, would you.' Gareth's voice could be heard from down the corridor.
'It everything all right, my lady?' One of her maids said uncertainly.
Daine smiled at her concern. 'Thank you, Agnes, for caring. I am fine, just a bit nervous.'
'Would you like me to escort you to the antechamber of the Ball Room, my lady? asked Agnes.
'I'd love you to, but consequently, Lord Martin has already taken that privilege. Thank you.' Daine had a small smile tugging her mouth.
Lord Martin and Gareth the Younger were waiting outside her apartments, both ready to go.
Gareth bowed mockingly and offered his gloved hand. 'My Lady, it would be a pleasure to escort you to the Ball.' (a.n: i thought it was Lord Martin who was supposed to *sigh*) Daine grinned in return and easily placed her hand on top of his. Unfortunately Gareth's glove was made of fine velvet.
'You had to use those damnable velvet gloves, didn't you?' Daine snapped playfully, but was fully aware of how much her hand itched. (a.n: Daine swears?)
Lord Martin's eyes lit playfully. 'Get used to it, Gareth does it to all of the court ladies!' At that comment Gareth rolled his rolls.
'For your information, I wore velvet gloves because they matched my breaches.' Gareth snapped. 'I was only trying to be gentlemanly.'
By the time Gareth had finished that sentence, they arrived at the entrance of the Ballroom. The hall was magnificent. Crystal shades lit the room to a certain degree. The tables were draped with silk and satin. The tableware on the higher tables was made of gold and crystal. On the lower tables was silver crockery. Red velvet curtains were draped along the walls. Each table seated ten nobles. Only the higher tables were seated for five.
Daine, Lord Martin and Gareth the Younger were guided by a slave to a table right up front. It took Daine a moment to realize that she was the most important Tortall guest present (a.n: she was invited in her own rights by Kaddar). As they settled down on their splendidly adorned chairs (a.n: more like thrones) Emperor Kaddar walked through the entrance and straight their way.
Strangely enough, Daine's heart beat faster as she caught sight of him. This time he wore a short cloak of cloth of gold over a cream and gold brocade doublet. His breaches were made up of cream and maroon with gold wiring all through it. As always, Kaddar was strung with jewellery everywhere. He had a ruby drops in each ear and a band of gold laced with rubies around his neck. This time Kaddar had no bracelets, just one large, ornamental armlet which was probably the most expensive piece of jewellery Daine had ever seen.
The young Emperor walked over to Daine, grinned and sat down. Daine was overwhelmingly shocked that Kaddar had chosen to sit next her, out of all the people! Following suit, another young noble of the same age seated himself between Gareth the Younger and Kaddar.
He must be Kaddar's closest advisor. Daine thought.
'Good evening, Daine? Beside me is Richard, Duke of Westsmith (a.n: what a name).'
Richard grinned good-naturally towards Daine and the other two nobles. 'Pleased to meet you, I'm sure. I'll take part of the peace conferences as well.'
'Richard sounds friendly and forthcoming, Kaddar. You made a good choice I must say, your majesty.' Daine spoke directly to Kaddar.
'He sure is. I'm lucky to have someone like him around. I need all the support I can get.' Abruptly, Kaddar changed the subject. 'Daine, it is hardly necessary to address me with such formality. No, don't look at me like that. I had to be distant at such occasions when there are nobles present. Now,' Kaddar looked more relaxed 'I've read your letters but haven't heard the news from your own mouth. Please keep me up to date. Please?' This time Kaddar made sure he had a puppy dog expression on his face.
Daine couldn't resist a small laugh. 'Actually Kaddar, I kinda forgot what I wrote in those letters.' Concerned, Daine got straight to the thing bothering her. 'Kaddar, how have you been? How's court and being emperor and everything? Are you coping? Do you think you can manage?'
'Here come all the questions.' Clearly amused. 'At first I found I had such a work load, with the famine and the royal palace in ruins.' Kaddar stopped to give Daine a ridicule death-glare. 'My friends are always by my side to help.' Sighing the youth said 'The problem is that some of those willing to give support think me a puppet, something to bend to their will. And i will not tolerate that kind of attitude. I'm sick of being tricked and played with.'
Daine nodded understanding. 'It's good to have you around again. I need someone I can completely belief me. I just don't know who to trust.' Kaddar carried off distraughtly.
'Kaddar,' Daine held his hand under hers. 'I'll always be here when you need me. If Ozourne could be Emperor, I'm sure you'll do just as good, even better.' At this point, Daine looked across to where her companions were sitting. Both of them seemed to be in deep conversation with Richard. Also, slaves came streaming in with the first course (a.n: In my world there are no entrée's).
Three slaves came to the Emperor's table serving a vegetable Carthak delicacy. The first slave cleared his throat and said while bowing low - 'Your Imperial Highness, My Lady and Lords, may I serve you?'
Sighing, for Kaddar didn't feel like acting as the country's Emperor, he waved his hand to continue to serve them.
Realizing for the first time that Kitten has not accompanied Daine, Kaddar asked Daine 'I just noticed, Daine, where is your dragon?'
Laughing, Daine responded 'Kitten met a couple of interested scholars. She likes getting attention, clearly unlike me!' At this Kaddar snorted in his food.
'Unfortunately for me, I attract attention wherever I go.' Kaddar said, grinning. Daine made a face at him, which looked rather peculiar in all her finery. Utter comprehension hit him. Daine was dressed up in the most stunning clothes he had ever seen her wear, he had not even realized at the wharf. She also coincidentally wore the same appealing colours as him. He felt awful in the inside, for not commenting earlier on her new outfit. 'Daine! It's just come to my attention, you looking stunning.' Kaddar was sure he spoke truth, for she looked perfect to him.
Daine blushed at the sudden observation. 'Forgive me for the sudden remark. But, as it is, you do deserve the compliment!' Kaddar quickly added.
'Well, The King and Queen felt that as my new title, I must dress accordingly.' At this point Daine paused to roll her eyes. 'It was my responsibility to organise the new wardrobe. I hired seamstresses and tiring maids to fit my gowns. Alanna, The Lioness, took me out to by my jewellery - surprisingly Alanna seemed to be interested in such feminine habits.' Daine added as an afterthought.
'I had hoped the clothes the seamstresses and I designed the write gowns to match my figure. If I can impress the Emperor of Carthak, I guess i designed the right gown!'
'You shouldn't think me as the Emperor of Carthak, but as your friend and from now, your constant companion.' Clearly amused and annoyed at the same time. (a.n: how the hell do you do both at the same time!? Oh well)
By this time, all six courses had come and gone. The dancing had commenced. 'Would you care for a dance, my lady?' Kaddar used the same mocking tone Gareth used in her sometimes.
Just as well Alanna had given me a few practical dance lessons. Daine thought gingerly as she took the hand Kaddar held out for her. She was fully aware of all the stares the majority of courtiers gave her, as Kaddar led her to the dance floor (a.n: sounds like a disco to me!).
It seemed Kaddar had also noticed. 'Ignore them, Daine. The majority of them are single-minded, selfish idiots.' Daine grinned, still wishing that they would all stop staring. 'They can't do anything while I'm emperor. Don't let them ruin tonight, Daine.'
Daine was concentrating more on the dance, then listening to Kaddar's reassurance. In front of the whole Carthak court, Daine wanted to make a good impression. After awhile, the new baroness managed to get the hang of it.
'So, have you an eye on any particular lady of court?' Daine asked mischievously. Daine's right arm held the young emperor's left arm. His arm was around her slim waist and Daine's arm was around his neck.
'You wish, Daine. All the ladies at court are the average smug, arrogant noble. Besides, uncle wouldn't let me associate with any of them, not that I wanted to. You? Have you been involved with any man at court?' It seemed that Daine wasn't the only curious one.
'Me? Of course not, as if any noble man would be interested in me!' Daine seemed so sure that she was as insignificant as she said, thought Kaddar.
'You'd be surprised, you know. Though I doubt Numair would of let any man so much as flirt with you.' Kaddar said this while remembering the day Numair warned Kaddar not to meddle with Daine.
Daine grinned, also remembering that day. 'He can be so humiliating some times.' Kaddar laughed outright.
The dance ended and Kaddar led Daine back to their table. 'Listen. I'll be leaving now; I like to have early nights (a.n: NO! He has never had an affair with any women). But before I go, tomorrow and the day after are free of any peace negotiations - I'd like to take you somewhere. After all, you are my guest and not part of the Tortall Peace Delegation. Would you like to visit the palace training yards? I could work on my archery, and since you're a noble you could try the short sword.'
'I'd love to. I never knew how much difference being a noble could be. Thank you, Kaddar. I know how much work duty calls. Sorry, if you did have some work to do.' Daine responded gratefully.
'Don't worry, Daine. It's my choice, not Carthak's. It's more enjoyable with you around. Here have this; it's my gift to you.' Kaddar took off his ornamental arm band and pressed it in Daine's hand. Surprisingly, he bowed slightly, took Daine's hand, kissed it gently and made to leave. To have an Emperor give something of his to you, bow and kiss your hand was quite a surprise to Daine.
'Daine, would you like a dance.' Gareth's friendly voice could be heard behind her. (a.n: NO, don't even think that. Gareth was only being friendly.)
Daine continued to dance for the next hour, with Carthak and Tortall courtiers. At last, she was too fatigued to continue.
Daine curtsied to Richard (a.n: Duke of Westsmith), her last dancing partner, and like Kaddar, made to leave.
**** How was that? BE WARNED! I bet I'll get carried off again with future and could be even longer then this (I seriously doubt that). Keep reading and reviewing!!!!
I've also written a Harry Potter story. *blushes* I think this fanfic is better then my Harry Potter one. I incorporated 'good warlocks' into it.
Here is why - (this is a paragraph from my Hp story)
Harry remembered the day Hermione told Harry just how special they were- 'Legend has it that *Slazenger* Slytherin had a loyal, but powerful friend. His name was Albany Dutrem. The term 'Warlock' was given to Dutrem when he supported the mass destruction Slytherin made. Albany Dutrem had a special gift. It let him see into people's spirits or what he called 'vines' and control them to his will. Warlocks today have never had as much power as 'the Warlock' himself. After experiencing massacre after massacre, Albany Dutrem was sick of all the evil, malevolence and immorality Slytherin had formed. Dutrem changed sides and became full of...of the Gryffindor properties- brave, valiant and willing to sacrifice themselves for others. The gift of Dutrem, as it's now called, is passed from a unique, not to mention cerebral way. The one chosen for the gift of Dutrem will have one, and only one vision. In this vision, it is known, that Albany Dutrem visits and tells of your destiny and fate if you wish to accept his gift. It is also known that if you accept or decline, either, you are forbidden to tell your fate to anyone unless being with the gift of Dutrem themselves.
As I will say again, I can never start a story right. My Hp story, chapter 1 is the worst chapter I have ever made.but it gets better!
Here is the link -
Please read
NOTE: HAVE ANY OF MY REVIEWERS READ SARA DOUGLASS? I need to know what would an appropriate name for a sword.StarDrifter, CloudBurst, EvenStar or DragonStar????
Adios mi amigos! izzy