A/N: Well, you wanted another chapter and here it is! Once again, I'm sorry for how lazy I've been....I've just been set on hashing out the finer details of my other fanfic, Gallan Return. With that in mind, I want you guys to help me to decide something concerning that fic. See, its barely even begun. If you looked at the outline I've got for it, you'd know that I've barely scratched the surface of what there is to come. Its going to be VERY long is what I'm getting at. So, the question is this: do you think i should cut it off soon (or actually it might be a little further in) and then continue where I left off with a sequal that will most likely be called Gallan Queen? Please let me know what you guys think about that!
Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will own it, so don't sue me for claiming I own it, for I am innocent of such a crime! Also, I don't own any of the lyrics used in this piece....Those belong to Clay Aiken or whoever wrote them. All I know is he sings them, so deal with it..... *mutters about reviewers who must always be right*
Note to Numair's Angel: Unfortunatle for you, I must inform you that I have NOT yet been attacked by a coke machine, though I'm still hoping it will happen!
***= songlyrics
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As the sun began to set over the horizon and Daine watched it go with interest, she could not be happier. Though the past few weeks had been more than strenuous for her, she would find a moment's rest tonight if it was the last thing she did. Daine was determined for tonight to be perfect, having no flaws at all. Why was tonight going to be so different and set apart from other nights? The answer to that question was very simple as far as Daine thought about it all. Tonight was the anniversary of the end of the Immortals War, and the day that and herself had chosen as their anniversary, seeing as they had not yet been married and could not accurately determine the date at which they fell in love.
Daine smiled to herself, thinking of that day those years ago that had come to change her life forever. She thought also of the days that had come after that one, and those to brought a smile to her soft lips. Everyday since then had been a full one. Numair had made her complete and filled that empty void in her heart that she had not even known had been there. It was funny how things seemed to work in life. She had had a void with her since the day of her birth, and she had only become aware of it the day it had finally become filled. She thanked the gods with every breath that that day had come when it had.
They had known each other for eight years now, and five of those years had been spent as lovers. Out of those years, the last five had been the ones she cherished most. Even when compared to all of the years of her life, Daine could say without a moment's hesitation that the best had been the last five. Love gave a strange contentment and fulfillment to a person, and Daine could feel all of its effects now more than ever. Tonight would be special; it would be a night to celebrate themselves and their love. She would not let anything go wrong if she could find anyway of stopping it. Daine was pleased to say that she had had no attack yet today or the previous day, and this day was almost done, and she still had not faced one. This was refreshing news to her, for in the recent days, they had become unbearable to say the least. They were terribly painful when they came, and some times Daine feared she was further losing herself in it all. Briefly, she would get memory lapses, and those scared her the most, especially with the blood thirsty callings and voices that echoed in her mind. She could only wait in fear and wonder what would come of it all.
Mentally, Daine scolded herself for even thinking something might go wrong. Thin negatively before anything ever happened to prove it was never a good thing, she knew. She just wished Numair would hurry and get home and then they could be together for their special night. Daine had it all planned out, for she had had to have something to keep her mind on all day as she waited here at the tower alone. She had prepared an outlandish dinner for the two of them, and a romantic setting for them to dine in. The previous day she had spent riding the short way down to the coast market near the shore. It was little more than a few miles from the tower, so her trip had been short. While there, she had purchased two fine quality salmon steaks for their anniversary dinner. She knew the man well who sold the fish to her, for she often came down her to purchase various items to help her with horse ailments. She had also been sure to purchase along with the fish plenty of mouth watering spices to help with the taste.
Today, Daine had spent her time preparing the dinner itself, making sure everything was just right. Since she and Numair had both decided upon moving into the tower that they preferred the privacy of not having any servants, Daine had to prepare the food all on her own. This was no trouble for her, for she was used to doing such things. Her Ma had been quite a cook when she had been alive, and she had passed some of these talents onto her daughter, whether Daine cared to admit it or not. She would say though, that such skills did prove to be useful at times.
When Daine was certain that the food was taken care of, she then went to set the table they would dine at. She had wanted to pull it out onto the balcony so that they could eat under the stars, but there was a dreadful storm brewing just now, and she did not like the idea of a soggy anniversary. Daine went to the cupboard and pulled out a small, white satin table cloth to make it all the more formal. Daine then went and got two long, off-white candles and placed them in a fancy brass candelabra. She would wait until Numair arrived before she lit them.
After everything was set out perfectly as Daine had planned, she took a step back to take it all in. It had indeed turned out according to her plan, and she was thankful for that. The only thing left was actually going through with it all, and that required the gods making sure she had no attacks. There was no sure way to know that, so Daine decided to just push the mere thought of it aside. She would just confide in the idea that tonight at least would turn out perfectly, without a single flaw.
Looking down at herself, Daine realized suddenly that with all of this finery she had prepared, she would look fair silly dressed in her normal white cotton shirt and brown work breeches. She hating dressing up for any occasion, but for a night such as this one, she would live. Daine quickly scurried up the stairs and into the bed chamber she shared with Numair. She hoped she could get into something decent before he arrived. If only she had thought to do all of this sooner. Normally, she could not care less about just wearing her normal work clothes in front of him, but tonight was special. Digging through her closet, Daine pulled out a plain blue dress. It was not exactly formal, not like one you would see worn at a ball, but it would do. She did not want to be dressed too formally tonight anyway.
Making her way over to the small silver mirror that sat on her dresser, Daine ran a brush through her mass of curls in an attempt to get them to behave. In the end, she managed to tame them slightly, but enough to satisfy her needs. Just as she was finishing up, Daine could faintly hear the sound of an approaching horse in the distance. She was surprised she heard it over the storm, but pleased nonetheless. Daine knew that this meant Numair was home. Though he had only been gone for two days, she had missed him as if it had been two months.
Daine hurried down the stairs, wanting to be there the second he walked through the door. She knew he would likely be a mess from the storm he had had to ride through, but she did not care. She felt a giddy sense of excitement flowing through her veins, making her heart beat faster with every second. Daine rushed over the last step and into the main living chambers of the tower. There was a fire blazing in the mantle, one that she had set earlier while she was getting everything ready. Just as she stepped onto the soft hand stitched rug that covered the floor before the fireplace, Daine heard the door open and the sounds of the storm entered the tower. She could hear the rain pouring down and the wind howling, making a mess of things. She would hate to be outside in weather like this.
The second Numair stepped through the door, the first thing his eyes fell upon was Daine. He was immediately taken aback by the sight of her, his heart skipping a beat. His eyes grew wide with interest as he took in the sight of her. She was clad in a simple, yet beautiful blue dress. It accented her curves and form perfectly, he thought to himself. Upon seeing her, he had frozen in his steps, not moving except the simple rising and falling of his chest to draw in needed air. She stood before him now, smiling with obvious realization and knowledge of her affect on him. Numair laughed inwardly when he saw that she seemed to be pleased with herself, and he had to admit he was pleased himself.
Seeing that he was not going to be the first to move, Daine decided to do it for him. She walked towards him, her movements almost revealing a sort of shy nature that she had not been sure she had in her. As she stepped closer, she reached out to wrap her arms around him, but he quickly held out a hand, stopping her. She was shocked and slightly hurt by this gesture, but his explanation soon came.
"No, Daine, you don't want to be doing that," He said, his hand still clasped tightly around her wrist to keep her from stepping closer. "I'm filthy from traveling, not to mention wet. I'll get you all dirtied up."
Understanding why he had done what he did, she nodded, smiling. She must have been so anxious and mesmerized upon him entering that she had failed to notice the state of his clothing. Now that she really took the time to look, she saw that he was drenched from head to foot from the rain. On top of that, much of his shirt and breeches was caked with mud and dirt. "I'll just go and change into some dry clothes and-" Numair began, but cut himself off mid sentence as he stepped into the next room. His eyes immediately fell onto the table she had prepared for them, and all of the finery she had prepared. The smell of the lavishly prepared salmon filled his nostrils, along with the other side dishes she had prepared to go with it. His eyes grew even wider, if possible, at this new discovery. He drew in a sharp breath, whistling at the sight before him. "You did all of this?" he asked, awe stricken.
Daine nodded at his question, beaming with pride for what she had done. She knew well that he was not used to any of this, especially coming from her. "I did this for our special night," She said, the light in his eyes making her feel completely giddy and pleased with herself.
Numair grinned widely, running a nervous hand through his hair. He had, of course, known this was their five year anniversary, but he had not by any means expected her to go to such great lengths for a romantic dinner. He felt such love and gratitude towards her just now than he could put into words. "I can't believe you did all of this!" his voice was ragged as he fought to breathe properly. He wanted to pull her to him and hug her tightly, but he did not want to get her dress dirty. "Just you wait," he exclaimed, voice anxious like a little boy standing in front of a candyshop window, "I'll head upstairs and change into some dry clothes, and then I'll do my part of making this an enjoyable evening." There was an unmistakable heat of desire in his voice as he said this, and it made Daine feel like dancing from happiness. She loved it when he was like this.
***Yeah, right here in this moment
Is right where I meant to be
Right here with you
Here with me***
Quickly, for he was obviously in a hurry, Numair rushed out of the room and up the stairs to the bed chamber he shared with Daine. This evening was going to be better than he had ever expected, and would play out perfectly with his plans. Once inside their bed chamber, Numair went immediately to his closet and searched for some clean clothes. Since Daine was dressed formally for the evening, he thought it only proper for him to do the same. It would make things all the more special, and he had already hoped to make this a night they would remember for years to come. He reached out and chose a black silk shirt with matching dress breeches. He quickly slipped off his wet shirt, glad to be out of its cold confines, and tossed onto the floor nearby. He hadn't the time to properly take care of it, for he was in a great hurry. He then slipped out of his soaked breeches and threw them aside as well. Lifting the clean formal pair off the floor, he slipped them on, along with the black silk shirt.
Numair moved back out of his closet and went to the dresser where he kept his mirror. He had to spend a little extra time fixing his hair back into a fresh horse tail, for his other was very ragged from his journey. Next, he lifted a tiny glass vial off of his dresser and uncorked it. Pouring a small amount of its contents onto his hands, he rubbed them together and then applied it to his neck and chest. At least now he would smell fresh without having to bathe first.
Finally satisfied with his appearance after looking in the mirror countless times, Numair moved back into his closet for the last, and most important thing he would need. He bent down next to an old pair of work boots near the back of his closet. Kneeling next to them, he reached inside, fishing around inside the boot until he found a tiny box up near the toe. Smiling to himself, he pulled it out. He flipped the lid open with his spare hand, revealing a tiny silver ring with a single diamond in the center and two miniature sapphires on each side of the center stone. He breathed in deeply, gazing down at the ring that lay in his hand. He wanted so badly for her to be his wife, and he had hoped tonight she would agree. He had asked once before, and had gotten no definite answer. It had been five years since that day, and he felt that it was time to ask a second time. Numair sincerely hoped she would not refuse him this time. He didn't think he could stand it if she could. He would still love her, yes, and stay with her, but it would hurt him deeply all the same. Numair knew she never meant to cause him any pain in asking him to let them wait, but he did not want to wait any longer. He wanted them to be married and make everything official.
"Gods, be with me," he whispered to himself, saying a silent prayer. He was completely nervous now, and he hoped it would not show. Making up his mind that all of this worrying was wasting his time, he stuck the black wooden box into his shirt pocket and made his way back down stairs. To Numair, that seemed to be the longest walk of his life.
***These are the moments
I thank God that I'm alive
These are the moments
I remember all my life***
Daine sat waiting in anticipation at the table she had prepared for this night. She did not expect it to be a very short wait, for she knew well of Numair's tendency to take forever and a day perfecting his appearance. When it got down to it, he spent more time getting ready than she ever did. Daine did not care though, for this was just one of his silly flaws that could be easily over looked. She loved him for who he was, not for how long he took to get ready. "Good thing too," she muttered to herself, "else wise I'd have given him the book a long time ago." She smiled at this last thought, hoping for the sake of the world that there wasn't anyone out there foolish enough to do such a thing.
"Good evening, fair maiden," came from across the room the only voice she longed to hear that night. She grinned and turned her head to look in his direction. He stood leaning on the door frame, clad in a pair of black silk breeches and a matching shirt. His hair was tied back in a fresh horse tail. Daine thought he looked more handsome than ever as she looked upon him now. As he stepped toward her, Daine giggled when he reached out and clasped her hand in his own. He brought it gently to his lips, kissing her hand softly. "Might I say that you look radiant this fine evening?" A smile was planted firmly on his face, making her feel such giddiness that she had not felt before.
Laughing, Daine replied, "You're not looking so bad yourself," Daine said, still laughing at the expression he wore. His eyes bore down on her, never breaking away. It always made her feel peculiar when he did that, but she liked it all the same. She still could not understand how anyone could find her a nice enough site to stare so intently at her as he always did. Numair raised an eyebrow at her, still clasping her hand tightly. With that hand, he lifted her from the chair in which she sat, pulling her to her feet. He proceeded to pull her to him, wrapping his arms around her waste. "I missed you, Daine," he said, kissing her neck with such tenderness that Daine could swear she was glowing from every place their bodies touched.
Unable to contain herself any longer, Daine untangled her hands from where he had pinned them at her side and lifted them to his face. She pulled his head up to face her for one quick second, and then pulled him down, their lips meeting with a wonderful electricity. She eased her lips over his, allowing her thumbs to caress his face. Daine could tell that he was surprised by her sudden choice of action, but knew also that he was pleased by it all the same.
After a long while, Numair pulled away to draw in air, but kept his face so close to her own that their noses were touching. He then leaned in once more and whispered into her ear, "You do know that its your fault entirely that I never want to go to the palace and do my job."
Daine's heart thumped wildly within her chest at his words. She had to agree with him though. She never wanted him to leave, even for such short trips as he had to make every month. "M-mayhap we should eat," Daine said lamely, knowing that if they did not stop now, the heat of desire would consume them entirely. They had to at least eat first. Numair nodded, not trusting himself to speak. He pulled her chair back, releasing her from his hold so that she could sit. He then moved to the other side of the small table, taking his place in front of her. It was only now that he had taken the time to observe the food she had prepared. He was dumbfounded by what he saw. There was a platter in the center of the table with two savory salmon steaks. Next to that were several side dishes that Numair could not name. He assumed that they must be some sort of Gallan delicacy that Daine had known back from her childhood. They looked delicious all the same.
***I could not ask for more than this time together
I could not ask for more than this time with you
Every prayer has been answered
Every dream has come true***
As he began cutting into the food before him, Numair began silently contemplating his plans for tonight. He had to wait until the perfect moment to pop the question. The only problem was, he hadn't a single clue as to when that moment ought to be. After all, he had only proposed once before in his lifetime, and that had seemed to be a good enough moment as any at the time. There was no war to wait until the end of now though, so he would have to find some other way, and it would be best if it were tonight. Finally making up his mind that the sooner he brought himself to do it, the better off he would be, Numair reached up a hand into his shirt pocket, saying, "Daine, I-" he managed to voice, but was tragically cut off midsentence by his lover.
"Oh, I'd fair forgotten about the wine!" Daine exclaimed, quickly rising from where she sat. Before Numair could protest, she had scurried into the next room to retrieve whatever it was that she had forgotten, no doubt. Sighing, Numair slipped the box back into his shirt pocket. Though he had not even gotten to ask the question, he felt almost as if he had already been rejected. He couldn't ask her so long as he was feeling this way. I'll just do it later tonight, he thought to himself. There would be plenty of time before the night was out, he was sure.
Daine soon came rushing back into the room, a dark bottle in hand. "I forgot that I got a special bottle of wine for tonight at the market yesterday," Daine explained, feeling she owed him an explanation for running out. Setting the wine bottle out onto the table, Daine once again took her place directly across from Numair.
As they began to eat, Numair felt a dire need to direct any conversation they might have away from any thoughts of proposals. He would do it, just not while they were trying to eat. He had to find just the right time, or it would be no good. Gods curse it, I'm no good at these type of thing, Numair thought bitterly to himself. Though the gods had dealt him a great deal of knowledge and Gift, he lacked the tactful sense it took to do something such as this that seemed so simple. "I spoke to Alanna before I left the palace to come home," Numair said simply, his best attempt to lure Daine into a conversation. Why did everything seem so different tonight?
"Anything new?" Daine asked, wondering how their friend was fairing. It had been almost two months since she had seen her last. She really missed not seeing her frequently as she had when she and Numair had taken up residence at the palace. They lived reasonably closer now to the Swoop, but unfortunately, Alanna was often not at her fief, but at the palace on duty.
"Ah, there isn't much for her at the moment," Numair said, taking a bite of the salad, "She seemed a bit troubled with Alianne though. Said something about her being too stubborn lately for her own good."
"You know, that doesn't surprise me in the least," Daine replied with amusement. If she knew the Lioness and her daughter, they would be bickering like cats and dogs on a regular basis. "They just have such contrasting personalities. I love them both, though."
"As do I," Numair added thoughtfully, waiting to see if Daine might have more to add to the subject.
"I really do miss seeing Alanna, Numair, " Daine replied, just as he had expected her to. He really would bring her a pleasant surprise with what he said next. That was his intention all along, though.
"Well, I've good news for you then," Numair voiced excitedly, eyes twinkling. Daine knew that look, and she was pleased to see it. He only looked like this when he knew something that would absolutely knock her off her feet. "Since Jonathan has granted our Lioness leave to return to Pirates Swoop, and our tower is on her way, she's decided to give us a visit tomorrow afternoon on her journey home."
Daine's eyes lit up immediately. She always missed seeing Alanna, for the lady knight was perhaps one of her greatest friends in all of Tortall. She dearly missed the days when she saw the Lioness often. "Why didn't you tell me sooner, dolt!" Daine exclaimed, reaching over and lightly slapping his arm. Numair chuckled, grinning at her antics as if mocking her. "You know I don't like it when you beat around the bush with idle conversation!"
"And you know that is precisely why I do it, sweet!" He replied, his tone mocking. His eyes bore down on her as she sat before him, as if in silent challenge.
"I'll get you for that, Master Mage," Daine warned, eyes sincere. She meant it, too.
Just as she said this, threat made, Numair rose from where he sat, plate in hand for he had just finished his dinner. He looked down on her and raised an eyebrow, not in question, but in a daring nature. "And how do you plan to do this?"Numair called back to her as he exited the room briskly with his plate to take it to the washing basin. As he walked, he smiled to himself, waiting for her to charge up behind him as he knew she would. Living with her for this long had not made him unconscious of her movements. It was rare that he did not know exactly what she was going to do before she even did it.
Sure enough, as he set his plate down on the counter, he felt sly hands slip around his waste, constricting him. His smile only grew wider, as did his amusement. Fast as lightning, and before she could see what he was doing, Numair brought his hands down to his waste to cover hers in a rapid movement. Already laughing, she let out a sudden shrill laugh as she felt him do this. She tried to respond to his challenge by pulling him tighter in her grip, but failed as he twisted her wrists around, turning the tables in this match for strength. Daine now stood in front of him rather than behind, and she was now under his control. She raised her head to look at him, and was amused to find a smirk written clearly on his face.
Thinking fast of a way to surprise him, Daine hastily kicked his left leg with all her might, but found it did little good. He had caught her movements before she had ever even attempted to aim. She hit only air, and soon found herself being slipped onto her back and up into his arms. She was now laughing uncontrollably, as was her lover. "You know you can't win in this games with me," he teased, close to tears from laughing so hard. The idea of proposing still had not left his mind, however. It was forever becoming a heavier burden on his mind. With that in his thoughts, he lifted her up higher in his grip, pulling her face up to his. He then closed the distance between them, allowing their lips to meet. He kissed her lightly at first, but when he felt her arms begin to snake up his back and around his neck, he returned more roughly.
Moaning lightly from pleasure, Numair pulled her tighter in his arms and carried her back into the next room. Instead of stopping at the table as he had before, he kept walked with her in his arms until he reached the couch that sat before a blazing fire in the mantle. Once there, he leaned back into a more comfortable position without ever breaking their kiss. He pulled away briefly for air, but then came back again in full. He eased his lips over hers with such tenderness that Daine felt as if she were floating on clouds.
As their kiss went on, Numair felt a sort of guilt tugging at the back of his mind. He could feel that ring in his shirt pocket with every time she pressed her body against his chest. He knew he had to ask, but he felt so comfortable just now, that he did not want to disturb what they had begun. He had to though, and he knew it. He did not want to live like they had been living outside of marriage any longer. He knew the things they did were wrong, and though he had done the same countless times with ladies of the court, he felt differently this time. Daine was no court lady, and should be treated as such. He loved her more than life itself, and would give his life for her in an instant. Numair knew he had never cared about how far he took things as far as women went, but he cared now. Though they had already crossed that line, he still wanted to amend such actions and do the right thing now.
With these thoughts in mind, Numair pulled his mouth away from her own. When he did not return immediately, she opened her eyes and returned from the blissful thoughts that had been brought on by their passion. She looked at him quizzically, wanting an explanation. He gave her one. "Daine, I need to talk to you," Numair voiced, hardly able to speak. He felt as if he could scarcely breath yet alone speak. He was drawing in hard, ragged breaths, the passion having already begun to consume him. This idea of proposing was much harder to carry out and go through with than he would ever have thought, for it hadn't been nearly so difficult the first time around.
When his lover nodded, indicating him to go on, he did. "I love you, I love you more than anything. I've lived for so long without feeling complete, without understanding how to fill that void in my heart," Numair voiced, his tone shaking as he himself did. He knew he was trembling, and he didn't have to question why. He was asking the woman he loved most a question that had the power to change both of their lives forever. That was enough to bring the strongest of men to their knees. "Daine, what I'm trying to say is-"
Numair never got to finish that thought. Right as he was about to finish his sentence and thus propose to her, She threw her head back suddenly, gasping in pain. He felt his heart beat fast as he watched her moaning in pain, rubbing her head. Completely forgetting what it was he had been previously saying, He lifted her head up to look at her, eyes deep with concern, "Daine, are you all right, sweet?" He asked, voice soft, "What's wrong?"
Gasping, and trying her best to dim the pain of what she knew was an attack, she fought to look up at him and assure him that she was just fine. She knew just by looking into his eyes that he wouldn't believe it even if she did manage to create a convincing lie. Why in the name of the gods does this have to be happening now, Daine thought angrily, completely frustrated. She had spent so much time planning out this night, and now all of her plans would be foiled because of these gods cursed attacks! "I'll be fine, Numair," Daine fought to say, her voice shaking uncontrollably. This attack was perhaps the strongest she had had yet, and it was extremely difficult to handle. Oh, how she wished it would just end! "I-its nothing more than a mild head pain-"
Every time she opened her mouth to speak, she could never complete her sentence. The pain in her head which was now surging throughout every inch of her body was growing rapidly. It felt as if each and every bone in her body was on fire and was splintering away into ash. It felt very similar to her first shape-shift, though it was more painful for now she resisted the urges. Daine found herself fighting for air, and for a few seconds losing that battle.
"Gods, Daine, what's wrong?!" Numair asked frantically, pulling her up quickly into a sitting position. He found himself in a state of panic and confusion, not having a single idea as to what was going on. His eyes were wide with fear and worry for his lover as he lightly slapped her back, thinking it a possibility that she could be choking.
Coughing and sputtering profusely, Daine knew she had to get herself under control. As her mind raced with both pain and panic, she sought an idea, anything that could help her now. "I-I don't know Numair-" Daine barely choked out these words. Though she didn't recognize it, tears were beginning to spill down her cheeks. She felt less pain as Numair drew her close, rubbing her back with sweet tenderness and murmuring kind words into her ear. "I'm sorry I've ruined our night," Daine said earnestly, finally getting a reign over herself. The pain was still there, but it was a dull one. In truth, she could hardly feel it now. But she feared it. She feared it so much that she couldn't think straight.
"Don't you think that for a moment, sweet," Numair said calmly, sounding almost shocked that she would even imagine such a thing. "I've had a better night thus far than I would have dared wish for."
"Thank you so much Numair," Daine said, trying to stifle her tears, but they continued to flow. There was a brief moment of silence, both lovers staring intently at the other. Daine's eyes reflected the fire light just now, and Numair couldn't help but think to himself how much it illustrated her wondrous character. Just as she was about to lean forward and kiss him once again, he held out a hand and stopped her, shaking his head.
"No, Daine, not tonight," he said gently, though it was obvious he had to force himself to do so. His eyes showed such a different emotion than what he was displaying now, and he knew it, so he looked down. He didn't want her to see the burning passion and the hunger and desire in his eyes. "You're not feeling well, and you gave me quite a scare."
Daine sighed, but she knew he was right. She knew also that only his undeniably true love for her could make him do what he had just done, and she was grateful for that. "All right," Daine said, biting her lip as she forced a tiny smile. "Mayhap a hot bath'll clear my head. Yes, I think that's it." Daine was trying to convince herself as much as Numair, though it was difficult to tell whether she was winning with either battle.
Disentangling herself from the arms of her lover, Daine rose from where she sat before the fire and headed upstairs to the bed chamber. Her mind was still in a rush, and she hoped soaking in a hot bath would do a decent job of taking care of that. "Gods this has been a disaster," she muttered to herself as she began to ease her way out of her dress. Daine then moved over to the large water tub and used the hand pump to get water flowing into it. Since Numair was a mage, there was a constant flame burning beneath the area that the tub occupied, so the water was always extremely warm, of which Daine was thankful. It made her feel like royalty to soak in such a bath.
As soon as her bath was ready, Daine stepped into the tub, letting her mind relax to the furthest extent that she could. She pushed the constant repetition of those same three words in her mind to a far place. Now, she could barely hear them sounding in her mind, and she was grateful for this moment of peace. Tonight's attack had truly frightened her, and she began to wonder if she ought to just admit to Numair what was going on. After all, she had not a single idea what all of this could result in, and truthfully she didn't want to find out. Daine made a promise to herself in this very moment that she would tell Numair everything in the morning. She found relief in this thought, for she knew that Numair would do everything in his power to put a stop to the frenzy that was going on in her mind. Now that she thought about it, she began to wonder why she had not just told him to begin with. Perhaps if she hadn't been so stubborn, she would be downstairs right now, laying breathlessly in his arms letting their passion consume her. But everything would be all right in the morning's light.
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When Daine stepped out of the privy, clad in her white cotton night dress, she found that Numair too had come up to bed. He lay sprawled out on their bed, his nose buried in the book that he kept constantly on his nightstand. As soon as she stepped into the room, his head popped up, eyes alight with interest and book forgotten. His mouth twisted into a smile as he pat the spot next to him, motioning for her to join him. She gladly accepted, having nothing she would rather do. Daine wanted desperately to make things up to him for their ruined night. With that in mind, Daine slid into bed next to him. She felt quite a bit better now, but was still not completely restored. She could push what little pain she felt however, aside until morning. That was what she had promised herself after all, and she was a woman of her word.
Inching over until her skin of her arm rubbed against that of his bare shoulder, Daine snaked her arm around his neck, pulling herself all the more close to her lover. Numair cocked an eyebrow in her direction, eyes showing with a concern which he wanted desperately to hide. Had it been another time and another place, and a different lady lying next to him just now, he wouldn't have had the slightest amount of worry, nor any guilt for any choice of action he might take. But this wasn't that time or that place, and most definitely it wasn't someone else. It was Daine, the woman he loved and cherished and had every intention of marrying and spending the rest of his life with. As she leaned in to kiss him, he didn't know exactly what to do. His heart told him to stop right now, to urge her to get some rest for she wasn't feeling well, he could plainly see. Another part of him though urged him to let her go on, and then he would soon join her. For the time being that part of him won. When her lips met his, he felt a blinding electricity flow through his veins, and he couldn't control himself. He kissed her back with as much, if not more, passion as she brought to him. He brought his arms up from the bed to move around her neck and waste, his hands roaming.
As their kiss went on though, his heart won the inner struggle. He had to speak up at least, "Daine, are you sure you're feeling better? We can stop now-"
Daine immediately cut him off. She was determined to repay him for what had happened earlier. "Numair, I'm fine. Please, don't stop," Daine urged, lightly caressing his shoulder. He closed his eyes tightly, trying in vain to stop himself now. It did no good, and before he knew it he had given into her pleas and brought his lips back to her own in a passionate kiss.
***Lyin' here with you
Listening to the rain
Smiling just to see
The simle upon your face
These are the moments
I thank God that I'm alive
These are the moments
I remember all my life
I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more***
Drawing his lips away, Numair began trailing tiny kissed down her neck, arousing a new found passion within her. She moaned in pleasure, adjusting her position next to him to better accommodate him. Continuing on his path, Numair was interrupted by the neckline of Daine's cotton night dress. Looking up just for a brief moment, he looked into Daine's eyes with a silent question. She knew immediately what he was asking, and nodded. He immediately looked down once more, moving his hands up to the laces that held on her nightdress. Numair brought his lips back to her, all the while blindly undoing the laces of her nightdress. When he had finished, she lifted her arms over her head as he began slipping it off of her completely. They then dove into a familiar passion, exploring one another.
***I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more
No I could not as for more....***
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A/N: Well, I hope you guys liked that! I made it extra long as a way of saying I'm sorry for taking so long to update. Also, I made it extra fluffy. See, there was meant to be more plot in this chapter, but I cut out several things and decided to stuff them into the next chapter instead. Just to let you know, that made this chapter a lot more happy-go-lucky, not to mention enjoyable. The next chapter is really when things start to REALLY happen, and I'm not so sure you'll be pleased with the results. Rest assured, however, it does end happy! I know I'm probably beating a dead horse in telling you this so often,its just that I feel its important to stress that! If I don't, then you'll forget, and when tragity and trials strike for our characters, you'll assume the worst and give up on me. And I'll be straight forward: if I were you, I would give up on me too after what is to come hits. It doesn't look so good for Daine and Numair, as you'll soon see! Just hang on, because I have several twists I want to through into the mix, and it has a happy ending that I've never tried before! SO review, and never never never give up on me!!! ^_^
Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will own it, so don't sue me for claiming I own it, for I am innocent of such a crime! Also, I don't own any of the lyrics used in this piece....Those belong to Clay Aiken or whoever wrote them. All I know is he sings them, so deal with it..... *mutters about reviewers who must always be right*
Note to Numair's Angel: Unfortunatle for you, I must inform you that I have NOT yet been attacked by a coke machine, though I'm still hoping it will happen!
***= songlyrics
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As the sun began to set over the horizon and Daine watched it go with interest, she could not be happier. Though the past few weeks had been more than strenuous for her, she would find a moment's rest tonight if it was the last thing she did. Daine was determined for tonight to be perfect, having no flaws at all. Why was tonight going to be so different and set apart from other nights? The answer to that question was very simple as far as Daine thought about it all. Tonight was the anniversary of the end of the Immortals War, and the day that and herself had chosen as their anniversary, seeing as they had not yet been married and could not accurately determine the date at which they fell in love.
Daine smiled to herself, thinking of that day those years ago that had come to change her life forever. She thought also of the days that had come after that one, and those to brought a smile to her soft lips. Everyday since then had been a full one. Numair had made her complete and filled that empty void in her heart that she had not even known had been there. It was funny how things seemed to work in life. She had had a void with her since the day of her birth, and she had only become aware of it the day it had finally become filled. She thanked the gods with every breath that that day had come when it had.
They had known each other for eight years now, and five of those years had been spent as lovers. Out of those years, the last five had been the ones she cherished most. Even when compared to all of the years of her life, Daine could say without a moment's hesitation that the best had been the last five. Love gave a strange contentment and fulfillment to a person, and Daine could feel all of its effects now more than ever. Tonight would be special; it would be a night to celebrate themselves and their love. She would not let anything go wrong if she could find anyway of stopping it. Daine was pleased to say that she had had no attack yet today or the previous day, and this day was almost done, and she still had not faced one. This was refreshing news to her, for in the recent days, they had become unbearable to say the least. They were terribly painful when they came, and some times Daine feared she was further losing herself in it all. Briefly, she would get memory lapses, and those scared her the most, especially with the blood thirsty callings and voices that echoed in her mind. She could only wait in fear and wonder what would come of it all.
Mentally, Daine scolded herself for even thinking something might go wrong. Thin negatively before anything ever happened to prove it was never a good thing, she knew. She just wished Numair would hurry and get home and then they could be together for their special night. Daine had it all planned out, for she had had to have something to keep her mind on all day as she waited here at the tower alone. She had prepared an outlandish dinner for the two of them, and a romantic setting for them to dine in. The previous day she had spent riding the short way down to the coast market near the shore. It was little more than a few miles from the tower, so her trip had been short. While there, she had purchased two fine quality salmon steaks for their anniversary dinner. She knew the man well who sold the fish to her, for she often came down her to purchase various items to help her with horse ailments. She had also been sure to purchase along with the fish plenty of mouth watering spices to help with the taste.
Today, Daine had spent her time preparing the dinner itself, making sure everything was just right. Since she and Numair had both decided upon moving into the tower that they preferred the privacy of not having any servants, Daine had to prepare the food all on her own. This was no trouble for her, for she was used to doing such things. Her Ma had been quite a cook when she had been alive, and she had passed some of these talents onto her daughter, whether Daine cared to admit it or not. She would say though, that such skills did prove to be useful at times.
When Daine was certain that the food was taken care of, she then went to set the table they would dine at. She had wanted to pull it out onto the balcony so that they could eat under the stars, but there was a dreadful storm brewing just now, and she did not like the idea of a soggy anniversary. Daine went to the cupboard and pulled out a small, white satin table cloth to make it all the more formal. Daine then went and got two long, off-white candles and placed them in a fancy brass candelabra. She would wait until Numair arrived before she lit them.
After everything was set out perfectly as Daine had planned, she took a step back to take it all in. It had indeed turned out according to her plan, and she was thankful for that. The only thing left was actually going through with it all, and that required the gods making sure she had no attacks. There was no sure way to know that, so Daine decided to just push the mere thought of it aside. She would just confide in the idea that tonight at least would turn out perfectly, without a single flaw.
Looking down at herself, Daine realized suddenly that with all of this finery she had prepared, she would look fair silly dressed in her normal white cotton shirt and brown work breeches. She hating dressing up for any occasion, but for a night such as this one, she would live. Daine quickly scurried up the stairs and into the bed chamber she shared with Numair. She hoped she could get into something decent before he arrived. If only she had thought to do all of this sooner. Normally, she could not care less about just wearing her normal work clothes in front of him, but tonight was special. Digging through her closet, Daine pulled out a plain blue dress. It was not exactly formal, not like one you would see worn at a ball, but it would do. She did not want to be dressed too formally tonight anyway.
Making her way over to the small silver mirror that sat on her dresser, Daine ran a brush through her mass of curls in an attempt to get them to behave. In the end, she managed to tame them slightly, but enough to satisfy her needs. Just as she was finishing up, Daine could faintly hear the sound of an approaching horse in the distance. She was surprised she heard it over the storm, but pleased nonetheless. Daine knew that this meant Numair was home. Though he had only been gone for two days, she had missed him as if it had been two months.
Daine hurried down the stairs, wanting to be there the second he walked through the door. She knew he would likely be a mess from the storm he had had to ride through, but she did not care. She felt a giddy sense of excitement flowing through her veins, making her heart beat faster with every second. Daine rushed over the last step and into the main living chambers of the tower. There was a fire blazing in the mantle, one that she had set earlier while she was getting everything ready. Just as she stepped onto the soft hand stitched rug that covered the floor before the fireplace, Daine heard the door open and the sounds of the storm entered the tower. She could hear the rain pouring down and the wind howling, making a mess of things. She would hate to be outside in weather like this.
The second Numair stepped through the door, the first thing his eyes fell upon was Daine. He was immediately taken aback by the sight of her, his heart skipping a beat. His eyes grew wide with interest as he took in the sight of her. She was clad in a simple, yet beautiful blue dress. It accented her curves and form perfectly, he thought to himself. Upon seeing her, he had frozen in his steps, not moving except the simple rising and falling of his chest to draw in needed air. She stood before him now, smiling with obvious realization and knowledge of her affect on him. Numair laughed inwardly when he saw that she seemed to be pleased with herself, and he had to admit he was pleased himself.
Seeing that he was not going to be the first to move, Daine decided to do it for him. She walked towards him, her movements almost revealing a sort of shy nature that she had not been sure she had in her. As she stepped closer, she reached out to wrap her arms around him, but he quickly held out a hand, stopping her. She was shocked and slightly hurt by this gesture, but his explanation soon came.
"No, Daine, you don't want to be doing that," He said, his hand still clasped tightly around her wrist to keep her from stepping closer. "I'm filthy from traveling, not to mention wet. I'll get you all dirtied up."
Understanding why he had done what he did, she nodded, smiling. She must have been so anxious and mesmerized upon him entering that she had failed to notice the state of his clothing. Now that she really took the time to look, she saw that he was drenched from head to foot from the rain. On top of that, much of his shirt and breeches was caked with mud and dirt. "I'll just go and change into some dry clothes and-" Numair began, but cut himself off mid sentence as he stepped into the next room. His eyes immediately fell onto the table she had prepared for them, and all of the finery she had prepared. The smell of the lavishly prepared salmon filled his nostrils, along with the other side dishes she had prepared to go with it. His eyes grew even wider, if possible, at this new discovery. He drew in a sharp breath, whistling at the sight before him. "You did all of this?" he asked, awe stricken.
Daine nodded at his question, beaming with pride for what she had done. She knew well that he was not used to any of this, especially coming from her. "I did this for our special night," She said, the light in his eyes making her feel completely giddy and pleased with herself.
Numair grinned widely, running a nervous hand through his hair. He had, of course, known this was their five year anniversary, but he had not by any means expected her to go to such great lengths for a romantic dinner. He felt such love and gratitude towards her just now than he could put into words. "I can't believe you did all of this!" his voice was ragged as he fought to breathe properly. He wanted to pull her to him and hug her tightly, but he did not want to get her dress dirty. "Just you wait," he exclaimed, voice anxious like a little boy standing in front of a candyshop window, "I'll head upstairs and change into some dry clothes, and then I'll do my part of making this an enjoyable evening." There was an unmistakable heat of desire in his voice as he said this, and it made Daine feel like dancing from happiness. She loved it when he was like this.
***Yeah, right here in this moment
Is right where I meant to be
Right here with you
Here with me***
Quickly, for he was obviously in a hurry, Numair rushed out of the room and up the stairs to the bed chamber he shared with Daine. This evening was going to be better than he had ever expected, and would play out perfectly with his plans. Once inside their bed chamber, Numair went immediately to his closet and searched for some clean clothes. Since Daine was dressed formally for the evening, he thought it only proper for him to do the same. It would make things all the more special, and he had already hoped to make this a night they would remember for years to come. He reached out and chose a black silk shirt with matching dress breeches. He quickly slipped off his wet shirt, glad to be out of its cold confines, and tossed onto the floor nearby. He hadn't the time to properly take care of it, for he was in a great hurry. He then slipped out of his soaked breeches and threw them aside as well. Lifting the clean formal pair off the floor, he slipped them on, along with the black silk shirt.
Numair moved back out of his closet and went to the dresser where he kept his mirror. He had to spend a little extra time fixing his hair back into a fresh horse tail, for his other was very ragged from his journey. Next, he lifted a tiny glass vial off of his dresser and uncorked it. Pouring a small amount of its contents onto his hands, he rubbed them together and then applied it to his neck and chest. At least now he would smell fresh without having to bathe first.
Finally satisfied with his appearance after looking in the mirror countless times, Numair moved back into his closet for the last, and most important thing he would need. He bent down next to an old pair of work boots near the back of his closet. Kneeling next to them, he reached inside, fishing around inside the boot until he found a tiny box up near the toe. Smiling to himself, he pulled it out. He flipped the lid open with his spare hand, revealing a tiny silver ring with a single diamond in the center and two miniature sapphires on each side of the center stone. He breathed in deeply, gazing down at the ring that lay in his hand. He wanted so badly for her to be his wife, and he had hoped tonight she would agree. He had asked once before, and had gotten no definite answer. It had been five years since that day, and he felt that it was time to ask a second time. Numair sincerely hoped she would not refuse him this time. He didn't think he could stand it if she could. He would still love her, yes, and stay with her, but it would hurt him deeply all the same. Numair knew she never meant to cause him any pain in asking him to let them wait, but he did not want to wait any longer. He wanted them to be married and make everything official.
"Gods, be with me," he whispered to himself, saying a silent prayer. He was completely nervous now, and he hoped it would not show. Making up his mind that all of this worrying was wasting his time, he stuck the black wooden box into his shirt pocket and made his way back down stairs. To Numair, that seemed to be the longest walk of his life.
***These are the moments
I thank God that I'm alive
These are the moments
I remember all my life***
Daine sat waiting in anticipation at the table she had prepared for this night. She did not expect it to be a very short wait, for she knew well of Numair's tendency to take forever and a day perfecting his appearance. When it got down to it, he spent more time getting ready than she ever did. Daine did not care though, for this was just one of his silly flaws that could be easily over looked. She loved him for who he was, not for how long he took to get ready. "Good thing too," she muttered to herself, "else wise I'd have given him the book a long time ago." She smiled at this last thought, hoping for the sake of the world that there wasn't anyone out there foolish enough to do such a thing.
"Good evening, fair maiden," came from across the room the only voice she longed to hear that night. She grinned and turned her head to look in his direction. He stood leaning on the door frame, clad in a pair of black silk breeches and a matching shirt. His hair was tied back in a fresh horse tail. Daine thought he looked more handsome than ever as she looked upon him now. As he stepped toward her, Daine giggled when he reached out and clasped her hand in his own. He brought it gently to his lips, kissing her hand softly. "Might I say that you look radiant this fine evening?" A smile was planted firmly on his face, making her feel such giddiness that she had not felt before.
Laughing, Daine replied, "You're not looking so bad yourself," Daine said, still laughing at the expression he wore. His eyes bore down on her, never breaking away. It always made her feel peculiar when he did that, but she liked it all the same. She still could not understand how anyone could find her a nice enough site to stare so intently at her as he always did. Numair raised an eyebrow at her, still clasping her hand tightly. With that hand, he lifted her from the chair in which she sat, pulling her to her feet. He proceeded to pull her to him, wrapping his arms around her waste. "I missed you, Daine," he said, kissing her neck with such tenderness that Daine could swear she was glowing from every place their bodies touched.
Unable to contain herself any longer, Daine untangled her hands from where he had pinned them at her side and lifted them to his face. She pulled his head up to face her for one quick second, and then pulled him down, their lips meeting with a wonderful electricity. She eased her lips over his, allowing her thumbs to caress his face. Daine could tell that he was surprised by her sudden choice of action, but knew also that he was pleased by it all the same.
After a long while, Numair pulled away to draw in air, but kept his face so close to her own that their noses were touching. He then leaned in once more and whispered into her ear, "You do know that its your fault entirely that I never want to go to the palace and do my job."
Daine's heart thumped wildly within her chest at his words. She had to agree with him though. She never wanted him to leave, even for such short trips as he had to make every month. "M-mayhap we should eat," Daine said lamely, knowing that if they did not stop now, the heat of desire would consume them entirely. They had to at least eat first. Numair nodded, not trusting himself to speak. He pulled her chair back, releasing her from his hold so that she could sit. He then moved to the other side of the small table, taking his place in front of her. It was only now that he had taken the time to observe the food she had prepared. He was dumbfounded by what he saw. There was a platter in the center of the table with two savory salmon steaks. Next to that were several side dishes that Numair could not name. He assumed that they must be some sort of Gallan delicacy that Daine had known back from her childhood. They looked delicious all the same.
***I could not ask for more than this time together
I could not ask for more than this time with you
Every prayer has been answered
Every dream has come true***
As he began cutting into the food before him, Numair began silently contemplating his plans for tonight. He had to wait until the perfect moment to pop the question. The only problem was, he hadn't a single clue as to when that moment ought to be. After all, he had only proposed once before in his lifetime, and that had seemed to be a good enough moment as any at the time. There was no war to wait until the end of now though, so he would have to find some other way, and it would be best if it were tonight. Finally making up his mind that the sooner he brought himself to do it, the better off he would be, Numair reached up a hand into his shirt pocket, saying, "Daine, I-" he managed to voice, but was tragically cut off midsentence by his lover.
"Oh, I'd fair forgotten about the wine!" Daine exclaimed, quickly rising from where she sat. Before Numair could protest, she had scurried into the next room to retrieve whatever it was that she had forgotten, no doubt. Sighing, Numair slipped the box back into his shirt pocket. Though he had not even gotten to ask the question, he felt almost as if he had already been rejected. He couldn't ask her so long as he was feeling this way. I'll just do it later tonight, he thought to himself. There would be plenty of time before the night was out, he was sure.
Daine soon came rushing back into the room, a dark bottle in hand. "I forgot that I got a special bottle of wine for tonight at the market yesterday," Daine explained, feeling she owed him an explanation for running out. Setting the wine bottle out onto the table, Daine once again took her place directly across from Numair.
As they began to eat, Numair felt a dire need to direct any conversation they might have away from any thoughts of proposals. He would do it, just not while they were trying to eat. He had to find just the right time, or it would be no good. Gods curse it, I'm no good at these type of thing, Numair thought bitterly to himself. Though the gods had dealt him a great deal of knowledge and Gift, he lacked the tactful sense it took to do something such as this that seemed so simple. "I spoke to Alanna before I left the palace to come home," Numair said simply, his best attempt to lure Daine into a conversation. Why did everything seem so different tonight?
"Anything new?" Daine asked, wondering how their friend was fairing. It had been almost two months since she had seen her last. She really missed not seeing her frequently as she had when she and Numair had taken up residence at the palace. They lived reasonably closer now to the Swoop, but unfortunately, Alanna was often not at her fief, but at the palace on duty.
"Ah, there isn't much for her at the moment," Numair said, taking a bite of the salad, "She seemed a bit troubled with Alianne though. Said something about her being too stubborn lately for her own good."
"You know, that doesn't surprise me in the least," Daine replied with amusement. If she knew the Lioness and her daughter, they would be bickering like cats and dogs on a regular basis. "They just have such contrasting personalities. I love them both, though."
"As do I," Numair added thoughtfully, waiting to see if Daine might have more to add to the subject.
"I really do miss seeing Alanna, Numair, " Daine replied, just as he had expected her to. He really would bring her a pleasant surprise with what he said next. That was his intention all along, though.
"Well, I've good news for you then," Numair voiced excitedly, eyes twinkling. Daine knew that look, and she was pleased to see it. He only looked like this when he knew something that would absolutely knock her off her feet. "Since Jonathan has granted our Lioness leave to return to Pirates Swoop, and our tower is on her way, she's decided to give us a visit tomorrow afternoon on her journey home."
Daine's eyes lit up immediately. She always missed seeing Alanna, for the lady knight was perhaps one of her greatest friends in all of Tortall. She dearly missed the days when she saw the Lioness often. "Why didn't you tell me sooner, dolt!" Daine exclaimed, reaching over and lightly slapping his arm. Numair chuckled, grinning at her antics as if mocking her. "You know I don't like it when you beat around the bush with idle conversation!"
"And you know that is precisely why I do it, sweet!" He replied, his tone mocking. His eyes bore down on her as she sat before him, as if in silent challenge.
"I'll get you for that, Master Mage," Daine warned, eyes sincere. She meant it, too.
Just as she said this, threat made, Numair rose from where he sat, plate in hand for he had just finished his dinner. He looked down on her and raised an eyebrow, not in question, but in a daring nature. "And how do you plan to do this?"Numair called back to her as he exited the room briskly with his plate to take it to the washing basin. As he walked, he smiled to himself, waiting for her to charge up behind him as he knew she would. Living with her for this long had not made him unconscious of her movements. It was rare that he did not know exactly what she was going to do before she even did it.
Sure enough, as he set his plate down on the counter, he felt sly hands slip around his waste, constricting him. His smile only grew wider, as did his amusement. Fast as lightning, and before she could see what he was doing, Numair brought his hands down to his waste to cover hers in a rapid movement. Already laughing, she let out a sudden shrill laugh as she felt him do this. She tried to respond to his challenge by pulling him tighter in her grip, but failed as he twisted her wrists around, turning the tables in this match for strength. Daine now stood in front of him rather than behind, and she was now under his control. She raised her head to look at him, and was amused to find a smirk written clearly on his face.
Thinking fast of a way to surprise him, Daine hastily kicked his left leg with all her might, but found it did little good. He had caught her movements before she had ever even attempted to aim. She hit only air, and soon found herself being slipped onto her back and up into his arms. She was now laughing uncontrollably, as was her lover. "You know you can't win in this games with me," he teased, close to tears from laughing so hard. The idea of proposing still had not left his mind, however. It was forever becoming a heavier burden on his mind. With that in his thoughts, he lifted her up higher in his grip, pulling her face up to his. He then closed the distance between them, allowing their lips to meet. He kissed her lightly at first, but when he felt her arms begin to snake up his back and around his neck, he returned more roughly.
Moaning lightly from pleasure, Numair pulled her tighter in his arms and carried her back into the next room. Instead of stopping at the table as he had before, he kept walked with her in his arms until he reached the couch that sat before a blazing fire in the mantle. Once there, he leaned back into a more comfortable position without ever breaking their kiss. He pulled away briefly for air, but then came back again in full. He eased his lips over hers with such tenderness that Daine felt as if she were floating on clouds.
As their kiss went on, Numair felt a sort of guilt tugging at the back of his mind. He could feel that ring in his shirt pocket with every time she pressed her body against his chest. He knew he had to ask, but he felt so comfortable just now, that he did not want to disturb what they had begun. He had to though, and he knew it. He did not want to live like they had been living outside of marriage any longer. He knew the things they did were wrong, and though he had done the same countless times with ladies of the court, he felt differently this time. Daine was no court lady, and should be treated as such. He loved her more than life itself, and would give his life for her in an instant. Numair knew he had never cared about how far he took things as far as women went, but he cared now. Though they had already crossed that line, he still wanted to amend such actions and do the right thing now.
With these thoughts in mind, Numair pulled his mouth away from her own. When he did not return immediately, she opened her eyes and returned from the blissful thoughts that had been brought on by their passion. She looked at him quizzically, wanting an explanation. He gave her one. "Daine, I need to talk to you," Numair voiced, hardly able to speak. He felt as if he could scarcely breath yet alone speak. He was drawing in hard, ragged breaths, the passion having already begun to consume him. This idea of proposing was much harder to carry out and go through with than he would ever have thought, for it hadn't been nearly so difficult the first time around.
When his lover nodded, indicating him to go on, he did. "I love you, I love you more than anything. I've lived for so long without feeling complete, without understanding how to fill that void in my heart," Numair voiced, his tone shaking as he himself did. He knew he was trembling, and he didn't have to question why. He was asking the woman he loved most a question that had the power to change both of their lives forever. That was enough to bring the strongest of men to their knees. "Daine, what I'm trying to say is-"
Numair never got to finish that thought. Right as he was about to finish his sentence and thus propose to her, She threw her head back suddenly, gasping in pain. He felt his heart beat fast as he watched her moaning in pain, rubbing her head. Completely forgetting what it was he had been previously saying, He lifted her head up to look at her, eyes deep with concern, "Daine, are you all right, sweet?" He asked, voice soft, "What's wrong?"
Gasping, and trying her best to dim the pain of what she knew was an attack, she fought to look up at him and assure him that she was just fine. She knew just by looking into his eyes that he wouldn't believe it even if she did manage to create a convincing lie. Why in the name of the gods does this have to be happening now, Daine thought angrily, completely frustrated. She had spent so much time planning out this night, and now all of her plans would be foiled because of these gods cursed attacks! "I'll be fine, Numair," Daine fought to say, her voice shaking uncontrollably. This attack was perhaps the strongest she had had yet, and it was extremely difficult to handle. Oh, how she wished it would just end! "I-its nothing more than a mild head pain-"
Every time she opened her mouth to speak, she could never complete her sentence. The pain in her head which was now surging throughout every inch of her body was growing rapidly. It felt as if each and every bone in her body was on fire and was splintering away into ash. It felt very similar to her first shape-shift, though it was more painful for now she resisted the urges. Daine found herself fighting for air, and for a few seconds losing that battle.
"Gods, Daine, what's wrong?!" Numair asked frantically, pulling her up quickly into a sitting position. He found himself in a state of panic and confusion, not having a single idea as to what was going on. His eyes were wide with fear and worry for his lover as he lightly slapped her back, thinking it a possibility that she could be choking.
Coughing and sputtering profusely, Daine knew she had to get herself under control. As her mind raced with both pain and panic, she sought an idea, anything that could help her now. "I-I don't know Numair-" Daine barely choked out these words. Though she didn't recognize it, tears were beginning to spill down her cheeks. She felt less pain as Numair drew her close, rubbing her back with sweet tenderness and murmuring kind words into her ear. "I'm sorry I've ruined our night," Daine said earnestly, finally getting a reign over herself. The pain was still there, but it was a dull one. In truth, she could hardly feel it now. But she feared it. She feared it so much that she couldn't think straight.
"Don't you think that for a moment, sweet," Numair said calmly, sounding almost shocked that she would even imagine such a thing. "I've had a better night thus far than I would have dared wish for."
"Thank you so much Numair," Daine said, trying to stifle her tears, but they continued to flow. There was a brief moment of silence, both lovers staring intently at the other. Daine's eyes reflected the fire light just now, and Numair couldn't help but think to himself how much it illustrated her wondrous character. Just as she was about to lean forward and kiss him once again, he held out a hand and stopped her, shaking his head.
"No, Daine, not tonight," he said gently, though it was obvious he had to force himself to do so. His eyes showed such a different emotion than what he was displaying now, and he knew it, so he looked down. He didn't want her to see the burning passion and the hunger and desire in his eyes. "You're not feeling well, and you gave me quite a scare."
Daine sighed, but she knew he was right. She knew also that only his undeniably true love for her could make him do what he had just done, and she was grateful for that. "All right," Daine said, biting her lip as she forced a tiny smile. "Mayhap a hot bath'll clear my head. Yes, I think that's it." Daine was trying to convince herself as much as Numair, though it was difficult to tell whether she was winning with either battle.
Disentangling herself from the arms of her lover, Daine rose from where she sat before the fire and headed upstairs to the bed chamber. Her mind was still in a rush, and she hoped soaking in a hot bath would do a decent job of taking care of that. "Gods this has been a disaster," she muttered to herself as she began to ease her way out of her dress. Daine then moved over to the large water tub and used the hand pump to get water flowing into it. Since Numair was a mage, there was a constant flame burning beneath the area that the tub occupied, so the water was always extremely warm, of which Daine was thankful. It made her feel like royalty to soak in such a bath.
As soon as her bath was ready, Daine stepped into the tub, letting her mind relax to the furthest extent that she could. She pushed the constant repetition of those same three words in her mind to a far place. Now, she could barely hear them sounding in her mind, and she was grateful for this moment of peace. Tonight's attack had truly frightened her, and she began to wonder if she ought to just admit to Numair what was going on. After all, she had not a single idea what all of this could result in, and truthfully she didn't want to find out. Daine made a promise to herself in this very moment that she would tell Numair everything in the morning. She found relief in this thought, for she knew that Numair would do everything in his power to put a stop to the frenzy that was going on in her mind. Now that she thought about it, she began to wonder why she had not just told him to begin with. Perhaps if she hadn't been so stubborn, she would be downstairs right now, laying breathlessly in his arms letting their passion consume her. But everything would be all right in the morning's light.
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When Daine stepped out of the privy, clad in her white cotton night dress, she found that Numair too had come up to bed. He lay sprawled out on their bed, his nose buried in the book that he kept constantly on his nightstand. As soon as she stepped into the room, his head popped up, eyes alight with interest and book forgotten. His mouth twisted into a smile as he pat the spot next to him, motioning for her to join him. She gladly accepted, having nothing she would rather do. Daine wanted desperately to make things up to him for their ruined night. With that in mind, Daine slid into bed next to him. She felt quite a bit better now, but was still not completely restored. She could push what little pain she felt however, aside until morning. That was what she had promised herself after all, and she was a woman of her word.
Inching over until her skin of her arm rubbed against that of his bare shoulder, Daine snaked her arm around his neck, pulling herself all the more close to her lover. Numair cocked an eyebrow in her direction, eyes showing with a concern which he wanted desperately to hide. Had it been another time and another place, and a different lady lying next to him just now, he wouldn't have had the slightest amount of worry, nor any guilt for any choice of action he might take. But this wasn't that time or that place, and most definitely it wasn't someone else. It was Daine, the woman he loved and cherished and had every intention of marrying and spending the rest of his life with. As she leaned in to kiss him, he didn't know exactly what to do. His heart told him to stop right now, to urge her to get some rest for she wasn't feeling well, he could plainly see. Another part of him though urged him to let her go on, and then he would soon join her. For the time being that part of him won. When her lips met his, he felt a blinding electricity flow through his veins, and he couldn't control himself. He kissed her back with as much, if not more, passion as she brought to him. He brought his arms up from the bed to move around her neck and waste, his hands roaming.
As their kiss went on though, his heart won the inner struggle. He had to speak up at least, "Daine, are you sure you're feeling better? We can stop now-"
Daine immediately cut him off. She was determined to repay him for what had happened earlier. "Numair, I'm fine. Please, don't stop," Daine urged, lightly caressing his shoulder. He closed his eyes tightly, trying in vain to stop himself now. It did no good, and before he knew it he had given into her pleas and brought his lips back to her own in a passionate kiss.
***Lyin' here with you
Listening to the rain
Smiling just to see
The simle upon your face
These are the moments
I thank God that I'm alive
These are the moments
I remember all my life
I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more***
Drawing his lips away, Numair began trailing tiny kissed down her neck, arousing a new found passion within her. She moaned in pleasure, adjusting her position next to him to better accommodate him. Continuing on his path, Numair was interrupted by the neckline of Daine's cotton night dress. Looking up just for a brief moment, he looked into Daine's eyes with a silent question. She knew immediately what he was asking, and nodded. He immediately looked down once more, moving his hands up to the laces that held on her nightdress. Numair brought his lips back to her, all the while blindly undoing the laces of her nightdress. When he had finished, she lifted her arms over her head as he began slipping it off of her completely. They then dove into a familiar passion, exploring one another.
***I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more
No I could not as for more....***
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A/N: Well, I hope you guys liked that! I made it extra long as a way of saying I'm sorry for taking so long to update. Also, I made it extra fluffy. See, there was meant to be more plot in this chapter, but I cut out several things and decided to stuff them into the next chapter instead. Just to let you know, that made this chapter a lot more happy-go-lucky, not to mention enjoyable. The next chapter is really when things start to REALLY happen, and I'm not so sure you'll be pleased with the results. Rest assured, however, it does end happy! I know I'm probably beating a dead horse in telling you this so often,its just that I feel its important to stress that! If I don't, then you'll forget, and when tragity and trials strike for our characters, you'll assume the worst and give up on me. And I'll be straight forward: if I were you, I would give up on me too after what is to come hits. It doesn't look so good for Daine and Numair, as you'll soon see! Just hang on, because I have several twists I want to through into the mix, and it has a happy ending that I've never tried before! SO review, and never never never give up on me!!! ^_^