A/N: Thanks so much to the people who reviewed! I've written you all personal thankyous at the end.
Alanna is meant to be about 16 right now, so this takes place after the war with Tusaine. And I've decided it'll be an Alanna/Raoul, mostly anyway...
Please read-review and enjoy, if you can :)
Chapter Two
Alanna sat in the carriage biting her lip. Peering out the window, she could see they were passing through the temple district. The pins sticking the blonde wig onto her scalp was giving Alanna a headache. Jon had made up a potion to keep her eyes a bluey-purple and it stung terribly. She wore a pretty lilac dress, the corset making it impossible to breathe in, and Mistress Cooper had layered her face in make-up that for some reason had a rather unpleasant odour; on the bright side, it was unlikely anyone would ever be able to recognise her.
She had spent the whole day after the news that night getting fitted for clothes by George's mother. Two days had now past since the beginning of the preparations. George had organised to have all letters concerning the betrothal kept from reaching the convent and Alanna had written a letter to Sir Raoul, from her sister 'Lily' addressing her arrival to Corus as would be expected. Squire Alan had officially left for the desert, to return as soon as possible, leaving other plans ready to go. Faithful had agreed to stay with George, out of sight for the time being.
The carriage gently came to a stop. Glancing out the window again Alanna could see Gary waiting with Raoul. Taking a closer look, she could just make out the frightened expression on Raoul's face. Leaning in closer still to the door, she could hear Gary's muffled voice trying to console their friend.
'At least you wont have to dance with any other ladies for a while. And you never know, she might be alright!'
'And so why did Alan never mention a sister before? And then he fled off somewhere as soon as she is to arrive!' Raoul stuck his hands into his breeches. 'I asked Cythera if she'd ever heard of her at the convent and she hadn't. No-one has. I'm probably marrying some unsociable she-demon.'
'Good, then you'll get on just fine. Shut up, she's here now.'
Alanna opened the door and stepped nimbly onto the ladder, clutching Gary's offered arm to help her down. Feeling the two sets of eyes summing her up, she couldn't help but register the burning of her cheeks. It was all up to her now- this performance would determine her future, for better or worse.
Raoul had taken one look at the petite blonde standing in front of him and fallen instantly head over heels in love. 'Good morning, my Lady. I'm Sir Raoul of Golden Lake.' He bowed politely, matching her red cheeks with his own. 'Please, just call me Raoul.'
'Good morning.' She quickly bobbed a curtsy, careful to make it quick so she wouldn't lose her balance. 'I'm Lily.' The unfamiliar name sounded odd rolling off her tongue.
'And I'm Sir Gareth of Naxen,' Gary broke in. 'But please, call me Gary.' He raised an eyebrow at Raoul, who looked smitten already. Raoul gave him a tiny nod in answer, before both leading the lovely Lady Lily inside.
...Gary...
One glance at Lily was all he needed- he should never have worried. It wasn't that Lily was beautiful, or particularly graceful for that matter. No, there was something different about this one, something special. Funny how she resembles Alan...
...Raoul...
How could Alan have never told us he had such a gorgeous sister? Lily is fantastic, I am so lucky. I really should have attempted to brush my hair this morning, how is she ever going to like me as I do her?
...pppqqq...
A/N: Hi! Well I know it's really short, (actually shorter then the first chapter), but I tried sticking the next bit of the plot on and it just wouldn't work. I've written three quarters of the next chapter, so it shouldn't be long till I post that :)
JunoMagic: Yeah, I know what you mean. I reckon everyone on this site has particular stories that they stay directly away from, so thanks for taking the time to read and review. I hope you keep reading and if you're reading this I hope you liked this chapter.
Pinky: Look, I took your advise! Thanks for reviewing, I hope you read and enjoy this chapter!
Angie: Thanks! I'm glad you like Raoul, the future chapters will hopefully get more and more fluffy!
Anonymous: Thanks for reviewing!
the-dragon-whisperer: Thankyou so much! I hope you enjoy this next chapter.
dragon shadows: Hey, I updated pretty soon right? Thankyou so much for the review!