Seems like FF. Net has definite ups and downs, huh? Since I had a little time I decided to do this chapter to make up for the delays in updating, so this one time you'll get two stories updated on the same day….Enjoy!
Chapter 33--A Change of Events
Wulfgar and Drizzt went to collect their ladies and escort them to the ball. Randari joined them as they reached the bottom of the stairs. He looked like a woodland prince in green and tan. He was the only one of the three of them that seemed comfortable in formal clothes. They walked up the stairs together.
"I just know that I'm going to do something clumsy and make a fool out of myself," Wulfgar groaned.
"Don't worry. None of us will be surprised, we're used to seeing you make a fool of yourself," Drizzt teased.
Randari laughed at that.
Wulfgar scowled at Drizzt. "Thanks for making me feel better," he snorted.
"You're welcome," Drizzt smirked.
"I'd shove you down these stairs if Catti-brie wouldn't have my head for it," Wulfgar grumbled.
At the head of the stairs they split up to go to their ladies' rooms.
Catti-brie heard a soft knock on the door. Taking a deep breath, she checked her reflection then opened the door. She sucked in her breath when she saw Drizzt. "You look so handsome." She said.
"And you, my Lady, rival the beauty of the stars," Drizzt said. He bowed elegantly to her.
Much to her surprise, Catti-brie felt her cheeks heat up. She knew she was blushing. "Why, my Lord, I never knew you had a silver tongue," she said.
Drizzt smiled at her and offered his arm. "Shall we go?" he asked. "The others will be waiting."
Catti-brie laid her hand on his arm. "Let's go," she said.
They walked down the hall and went downstairs. The others were waiting. After exchanging a few words they headed for the ballroom and joined the receiving line outside the double doors. All ready many nobles had arrived.
Regis looked good in a simple white shirt, black breeches and blue waistcoat. He winked and waved at them from his place near the front.
Catti-brie felt the muscles in Drizzt's arm tense as he subconsciously reacted to the crowd of strangers. She squeezed his arm to get his attention. "It's alright," she said softly when he looked at her. She glanced at Wulfgar meaningfully.
Wulfgar understood what she wanted immediately He edged himself and Delly behind Catti-brie and Drizzt, separating them from the strange couple behind them.
Drizzt relaxed completely then. Catti-brie gave Wulfgar a quick grateful smile as they slowly moved forward into the ballroom. "Thank you," she whispered.
Lady Alustriel was greeting her guests at the door as they entered. Several carefully placed guards watched their Lady.
Since it was a formal occasion Drizzt bowed and Catti-brie curtsied when they reached her to show respect to the Lady of Silverymoon.
"Rise and stand beside me, I insist," Alustriel said, gesturing.
Drizzt and Catti-brie were surprised by the request, but they did as she'd asked.
It took an hour for the receiving line to end. Lady Alustriel headed for the front of the room. "Please come with me, Ranger Do'Urden, Princess Battlehammer," she said.
Catti-brie and Drizzt were even more puzzled, but they followed. It would have been considered an insult if they didn't do as asked.
Once they arrived at the front of the ballroom. Lady Alustriel had Drizzt and Catti-brie stand beside her with everyone watching them. "Welcome to all of you. This ball is held every year to celebrate the continued peace of Silverymoon, but this year it will serve a new function. It is a ball to celebrate the betrothal of Princess Catti-brie Battlehammer and Ranger Drizzt Do'Urden," she announced.
Both Catti-brie and Drizzt were startled and had a hard time hiding it much to the amusement of their other friends.
There was a brief silence then polite applause.
"Let the festivities begin!" Alustriel said.
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Argh! Sap! Fluff! Shoot me! Cut of my typing fingers! SAVE ME!! *Clears Throat* Ummm….R/R?