Disclaimer: I do not own G Gundam or any of its characters
A.N.: hello! I'm sorry if I seemed a little drastic with my note last chapter, but you see, I was worried. I was loosing my reviewers and I feared that people were loosing interest in my story, that I was doing something wrong, and people didn't like my story. But now, I'm back to business, and I have what was originally the second half of chapter 4.
NEXT CHAPTER: I'm thinking of having more um...intense?...D/R and ML/G scenes, if you would like. Not to mention more Allenby bashing (as usual) and perhaps some dragons/mystical elements. Be sure to let me know what you think of these ideas and review this chapter ^_^
P.S.: EMERGENCY!! I NEED SUGGESTIONS! I'm afraid I'm suffering a bit from writer's block with this story, and I'm not quite happy with this chapter, but I decided to post it anyway. I have a pretty good idea where I'm taking the plot, but any suggestions would be most helpful. I can't promise I'll use any of them, but just having something to stimulate my thoughts would help. So, if you have any ideas, be sure to let me know. Aside from reviewing, you can e-mail me anything you want to say at scarlettlady1082@hotmail.com. I would be most grateful if you could do so. Thank you!
~Raye
*~*~*~*
THESE FOOLISH GAMES: Chapter 5
*~*~*~*
Kyoji did not initially respond to Rain's account, causing her heart to race. What if he changed his mind and exposed her? The thought only caused her to grow irate.
"So, have you decided to go back on your word and reveal me for the fraud I am?"
Kyoji whipped his head around. "No. Of course not! How dare you suggest that! I am a man of honor and I never, I repeat, never go back on my word. I simply find your tale intriguing. I will not tell your secret. The trust and honesty that you have shown me deserve to be reciprocated, so I will warn you of Duchess Allenby. She is a conniving woman who will stop at nothing to destroy you and win Domon for the title of Queen. There is a long line of previous maidens that she has sent back to their homelands in tears, only to ensure her possession of Domon. However, the others were not as strong as you, and I believe that you can beat her."
"Beat her? At winning Domon's heart?" She shook her head. "I could hardly consent to participating in such a tender a game. Hearts are broken everyday, far too easily, and I will not add to my list of wrong-doings by participating in toying with them. They are to be treasured and cherished. I would never abuse such a precious gift. You have misperceived my character, my lord, if you believe my morals to be as low as my social position."
"I meant you no insult, and you have misconstrued my intentions. I do not wish for you to win Domon's heart from Allenby, no. She does not even have it; she only has his lust, and love and lust, though closely related, are not the same. I simply want you to stay here, to remain strong and not back down from Lady Allenby. She needs to be put in her place, and I believe that with your help, I can do so."
"I fail to see how. I can only refuse to leave and not bend to her will."
"By doing so, you make her see that she does not have infinite power. You, as a distraction to her, can buy me more time to change Domon's mind. And perhaps you could change his mind, too."
Rain laughed. "I do not think so, why would he change because of me? Domon and I, well, we had a rough start. And besides, why should I care to help him? He insulted me. I am afraid I do not think very highly of him."
"Do not judge Domon based on an erroneous first impression. I do not know what he did to insult you so that you would think so poorly of him, but he is a respectable person underneath. He is confused at times between duty and his personal wants, but he is loyal. When he places his trust in someone, he does so fully. He does everything passionately, completely, placing everything he has into one thing; a worthy confidante, someone I would not hesitate to trust with my life. I know that I cannot simply force my views upon you, but I hope that you will give his character a second chance."
Rain deliberated momentarily. "I suppose. I of all people should know that things are not always as they seem."
"Thank you. Tell me, do you plan to let the real princess know of this visit?"
"I...I do not know. I would feel quite guilty if I did not. I have never lied to her before, and I could not think of doing so now."
"I expected that much from you. Yes, I agree that she should know. Now, I must return to my chambers. Shall I escort you to yours, there are no guards outside your doors, or were you planning on another route other than the usual hallway, perhaps by way of balcony?"
Rain blushed. "No, I would much rather have you escort me back, thank you, my Lord." With that she took his arm and returned to her room. As the doors closed behind her, she locked them and blew out a sigh of relief. That was taken care of, now she just had to look forward to telling Marie- Louise and taking on Duchess Allenby.
'He is confused at times between duty and his personal wants, but he is loyal. When he places his trust in someone, he does so fully. He does everything passionately, completely, placing everything he has into one thing; a worthy confidante, someone I would not hesitate to trust with my life.'
Rain flushed for the second time. Perhaps Kyoji was right. Perhaps she was hasty in forming an opinion of Domon. She smiled at thoughts of his chocolate eyes and raven hair as she peeled off her clothing, stripping down to her thin shift and crawled into bed, ready to dream.
*~*~*~*
Marie-Louise woke early, just as the fingertips of light danced across her bed, streaming in from her window. Lazily, she stretched and looked over to see that Rain had already risen and was opening the curtains of her room.
"Good morning, Marie-Louise."
"Mmm. Good morning, Rain."
Marie-Louise languidly opened her wardrobe and shifted through her gowns, finally deciding on a dress of pastel pink. Rain helped her dress and then combed her hair, one hundred strokes, to obtain a high shine. With a splash of cool rose petal water, she was awake and ready to begin the day.
"All right. I shall go to get the breakfast. I shall return anon."
"Oh! Hold, Marie-Louise! I almost forgot to tell you. I wanted to let you know as soon as I could, but I did not want to disturb you whilst you slept. Prince Kyoji knows about us. About our identities."
Marie-Louise blinked. Then again. "What? How?"
"We met in the marketplace and at the time I did not realize it was him. He found out my name, and when he met me yesterday was therefore able to deduce that I was not the princess, but instead really a servant. That led to all sorts of interrogations. I told him about us. I am so very sorry, Marie-Louise. I really did not have much choice, but I feel he is trustworthy."
"When did you tell him?"
Rain blushed and picked up the copy of THE CANTURBURY TALES from her nightstand, showing it to her friend. "Last night he caught me in the library."
Marie-Louise laughed. "Typical. Well, as long as he does not betray our confidence, there is nothing to worry of. You are a good judge of character." With that, she exited the room fastening her apron around her waist. "Now, where is the scullery? I wonder."
She wandered about a bit before she found it and picking up the two trays, one carefully balanced in each arm, she walked back to the room when her slipper fell from her foot. Glancing down, she struggled to maintain poise and slide the shoe back on without falling, when the mead on one tray slipped off. Her arm jerked, attempting to catch the mead, but did not get the opportunity for someone had already caught it.
She found her eyes connecting with those of violet. "Sir George! I-well- thank you very much." She managed to stutter.
He smiled back at her. "Not a problem, my lady." He replaced the mead on the tray and picked up one. "Allow me to assist you back to your chambers?"
Marie-Louise blushed prettily. "I thank you again, kind sir."
*~*~*~*
Rain pulled on her gown and as she quickly brushed her hair, wondered what was taking Marie-Louise so long. Tired of sitting and waiting, she exited her chambers to see if she could locate the stables and find Sai Sici, disregarding the orders of Marie-Louise that she was to be chaperoned at all times. After a short while, she soon found it and hopped the fence of one of the pastures, heading towards the main stable. Here in the open air she was free, with out the worries she had of her 'royal' life. If only she could learn to show the world inside the castle who she was out here. If only she could make them see her for who she was.
"Sai! Sai? Are you here?" She wandered aisle after aisle, searching for someone who could help, but to no avail. "Lord, this place is almost as extensive as the palace itself!" Suddenly, she turned her head at a sound from a nearby stable. She suddenly felt very alone, wishing that she had waited for Marie-Louise to return before she had gone to visit Sai. She shook her head, to rid her mind of the anxiety that was taking over. "Sai?" Quietly, she followed the sound of noises, whispering again, "Is that you Sai?" She peered around the door of the stable from whence the noises were emanating, and then jumped back in shock.
*~*~*~*
"Princess Marie-Louise!"
Rain blushed at the sound of Lady Allenby's voice and she attempted to flatten her body even more against the stable door. The last two people she wanted to run into, doing some quite inappropriate things in Rain's opinion, had caught her, and there was no way for her to escape. Regaining composure and with as much dignity as she could muster, she turned back to face them. "Why, Prince Domon, Lady Allenby. What a delightful surprise. I did not realize that anyone else would be strolling about in the stables this early in the morning."
"Yes, we were just about to go for a ride this morning, an all-day excursion." Lady Allenby was still adjusting her dress, and Domon appeared quite flustered. The wheels in Lady Allenby's head began to turn and she smiled wickedly. "Perhaps you would care to go along with us, Princess. I am sure that Prince Domon would love to have you along, as would I."
Rain stared at Lady Allenby, trying to figure out why she would be so kind to her. She wanted more than anything to back down from the request, but she remembered her promise to Kyoji, to help rid Domon of Allenby's snake- like grasp. "Yes, I would very much like that, Lady Allenby."
Domon gave her a strange look, questioning her. Remembering their last meeting on horseback, he spoke, "We do not wish to impose on any plans that you may have already had, princess." He did not want her to hurt herself again.
Rain mistook his purpose for making this statement. //So, he is insulting me once again, implying that I am a terrible rider. Either that or he wants to be alone with the Duchess so he can get more of what she was just giving him.// Ignoring his comment, she continued pleasantly. "I cannot think of anything better to do than go for a ride. It is quite a lovely day, is it not? Shall I meet you back here once I change?"
Lady Allenby nodded. "That would be delightful. I shall inform the cook that we shall need to feed one more." As she watched Rain disappear, she smiled wickedly. That poor little girl. Going on an all-day ride in unknown territory. Anything could happen to her. Why, she could get hurt! And if she was injured too badly, she would have to return to Mersenia! What a terrible, terrible shame that would be.
*~*~*~*
Rain met Marie-Louise and George in the hallway just as she was returning to her chambers. Marie-Louise was giggling at something that George had said. He was smiling at her, taking pleasure in watching her laugh.
"Good day, Sir George. Rain, I wish to inform you that I would be accompanying Prince Domon and Duchess Allenby on a ride today. I am sorry to leave you alone all day. Sir George, I do not care to trespass on your generosity, but might I ask that you look after Rain today? It is a new place for both of us, and we are both unaccustomed to the surroundings. If you would not mind, I would be most grateful to know that Rain would be safe." She smiled at Marie-Louise's excited reaction.
George's face lit up. "Why of course, princess. Nothing would give me greater pleasure. Any time at all. Lady Rain, allow me to carry this to your chambers and then I shall await your company in the study. Come whenever you are ready."
When he had gone and closed the door, Marie-Louise turned to face Rain as she helped her change into a riding habit. "Oh, Rain! You are so devious! Thank you so much! I shall have a wonderful time. But what about you? Are you really going to ride? And in front of Domon again!"
"Do not worry, Marie-Louise. I shall be fine. Have fun with George. He seems like a very nice man." She winked at Marie-Louise as she left to meet George.
*~*~*~*
Domon was nervous about Marie-Louise coming along. He did not trust Allenby's reasons for asking her to join them. He flushed again when he remembered Marie-Louise's interruption of them making love. Why was he suddenly concerned about this princess? Allenby's antics to rid him of the other princesses had never disturbed him before, so why now? Nothing was different about this princess.
He sighed as Princess Marie-Louise strode into the stables once again, wearing a charming shade of blue to match her eyes. Who was he kidding? He found this princess terribly attractive. She was beautiful, no, more than beautiful. Enchanting. Just the way she entered a room, he could not tear his eyes from her. Her rich, full lips, sparkling aquamarine eyes, long legs and perfect hourglass figure all gave Allenby competition. No one had ever caused such feelings in him, not even Allenby herself.
Grasping the reins of his horse in his right hand, he watched apprehensively as Marie-Louise mounted her horse. Why had she agreed to come along? She had seen what had gone on between him and Allenby, and although they had not gone too far, it had been enough to send most others running in disgust. Allenby's glare alone could accomplish as much. But instead, she had stayed. Why? She was strong, not someone to whimper and cry in the corner after defeat; she had proved thus much in her ability to remount her horse after falling, and here she was again, riding with him, in spite of any embarrassment she may have suffered. Yes, she was strong.
"Shall we go?" Lady Allenby asked. She had not missed Domon's stare of trepidation. He was confused, but she could not figure out why. What had happened between the two? Had she missed something? She became irritated at this thought.
Urging her horse forward, Rain took off at an elegant canter, skirts billowing in the wind. She had improved her riding skills greatly since her confrontation with Domon that day, and now was the time to prove it. Turning her horse in a circle, her gloved hands gripped the reins, demonstrating her complete control of the gelding's movements.
"Are you both coming, or shall I have to venture on my own today?" She questioned with a laugh.
Domon was stunned. She had quite improved since that day he saw her fallen on the ground. He smiled at the unexpected, but delightful surprise. She was quite extraordinary. He followed after her, leaving Allenby behind.
Allenby's fury grew as she watched Domon take off after the princess through narrowed eyes. She spurred her horse forward to attempt to catch up. That girl was disrupting her plans, distracting Domon like that, she was causing her to lose her grip on Domon. She was going to be more difficult to deal with than the others, but the little princess was not immortal. One way or the other, she would be destroyed, even if she had to resort to murder.
*~*~*~*
REVIEW!! Please! Remember my previous note!
A.N.: hello! I'm sorry if I seemed a little drastic with my note last chapter, but you see, I was worried. I was loosing my reviewers and I feared that people were loosing interest in my story, that I was doing something wrong, and people didn't like my story. But now, I'm back to business, and I have what was originally the second half of chapter 4.
NEXT CHAPTER: I'm thinking of having more um...intense?...D/R and ML/G scenes, if you would like. Not to mention more Allenby bashing (as usual) and perhaps some dragons/mystical elements. Be sure to let me know what you think of these ideas and review this chapter ^_^
P.S.: EMERGENCY!! I NEED SUGGESTIONS! I'm afraid I'm suffering a bit from writer's block with this story, and I'm not quite happy with this chapter, but I decided to post it anyway. I have a pretty good idea where I'm taking the plot, but any suggestions would be most helpful. I can't promise I'll use any of them, but just having something to stimulate my thoughts would help. So, if you have any ideas, be sure to let me know. Aside from reviewing, you can e-mail me anything you want to say at scarlettlady1082@hotmail.com. I would be most grateful if you could do so. Thank you!
~Raye
*~*~*~*
THESE FOOLISH GAMES: Chapter 5
*~*~*~*
Kyoji did not initially respond to Rain's account, causing her heart to race. What if he changed his mind and exposed her? The thought only caused her to grow irate.
"So, have you decided to go back on your word and reveal me for the fraud I am?"
Kyoji whipped his head around. "No. Of course not! How dare you suggest that! I am a man of honor and I never, I repeat, never go back on my word. I simply find your tale intriguing. I will not tell your secret. The trust and honesty that you have shown me deserve to be reciprocated, so I will warn you of Duchess Allenby. She is a conniving woman who will stop at nothing to destroy you and win Domon for the title of Queen. There is a long line of previous maidens that she has sent back to their homelands in tears, only to ensure her possession of Domon. However, the others were not as strong as you, and I believe that you can beat her."
"Beat her? At winning Domon's heart?" She shook her head. "I could hardly consent to participating in such a tender a game. Hearts are broken everyday, far too easily, and I will not add to my list of wrong-doings by participating in toying with them. They are to be treasured and cherished. I would never abuse such a precious gift. You have misperceived my character, my lord, if you believe my morals to be as low as my social position."
"I meant you no insult, and you have misconstrued my intentions. I do not wish for you to win Domon's heart from Allenby, no. She does not even have it; she only has his lust, and love and lust, though closely related, are not the same. I simply want you to stay here, to remain strong and not back down from Lady Allenby. She needs to be put in her place, and I believe that with your help, I can do so."
"I fail to see how. I can only refuse to leave and not bend to her will."
"By doing so, you make her see that she does not have infinite power. You, as a distraction to her, can buy me more time to change Domon's mind. And perhaps you could change his mind, too."
Rain laughed. "I do not think so, why would he change because of me? Domon and I, well, we had a rough start. And besides, why should I care to help him? He insulted me. I am afraid I do not think very highly of him."
"Do not judge Domon based on an erroneous first impression. I do not know what he did to insult you so that you would think so poorly of him, but he is a respectable person underneath. He is confused at times between duty and his personal wants, but he is loyal. When he places his trust in someone, he does so fully. He does everything passionately, completely, placing everything he has into one thing; a worthy confidante, someone I would not hesitate to trust with my life. I know that I cannot simply force my views upon you, but I hope that you will give his character a second chance."
Rain deliberated momentarily. "I suppose. I of all people should know that things are not always as they seem."
"Thank you. Tell me, do you plan to let the real princess know of this visit?"
"I...I do not know. I would feel quite guilty if I did not. I have never lied to her before, and I could not think of doing so now."
"I expected that much from you. Yes, I agree that she should know. Now, I must return to my chambers. Shall I escort you to yours, there are no guards outside your doors, or were you planning on another route other than the usual hallway, perhaps by way of balcony?"
Rain blushed. "No, I would much rather have you escort me back, thank you, my Lord." With that she took his arm and returned to her room. As the doors closed behind her, she locked them and blew out a sigh of relief. That was taken care of, now she just had to look forward to telling Marie- Louise and taking on Duchess Allenby.
'He is confused at times between duty and his personal wants, but he is loyal. When he places his trust in someone, he does so fully. He does everything passionately, completely, placing everything he has into one thing; a worthy confidante, someone I would not hesitate to trust with my life.'
Rain flushed for the second time. Perhaps Kyoji was right. Perhaps she was hasty in forming an opinion of Domon. She smiled at thoughts of his chocolate eyes and raven hair as she peeled off her clothing, stripping down to her thin shift and crawled into bed, ready to dream.
*~*~*~*
Marie-Louise woke early, just as the fingertips of light danced across her bed, streaming in from her window. Lazily, she stretched and looked over to see that Rain had already risen and was opening the curtains of her room.
"Good morning, Marie-Louise."
"Mmm. Good morning, Rain."
Marie-Louise languidly opened her wardrobe and shifted through her gowns, finally deciding on a dress of pastel pink. Rain helped her dress and then combed her hair, one hundred strokes, to obtain a high shine. With a splash of cool rose petal water, she was awake and ready to begin the day.
"All right. I shall go to get the breakfast. I shall return anon."
"Oh! Hold, Marie-Louise! I almost forgot to tell you. I wanted to let you know as soon as I could, but I did not want to disturb you whilst you slept. Prince Kyoji knows about us. About our identities."
Marie-Louise blinked. Then again. "What? How?"
"We met in the marketplace and at the time I did not realize it was him. He found out my name, and when he met me yesterday was therefore able to deduce that I was not the princess, but instead really a servant. That led to all sorts of interrogations. I told him about us. I am so very sorry, Marie-Louise. I really did not have much choice, but I feel he is trustworthy."
"When did you tell him?"
Rain blushed and picked up the copy of THE CANTURBURY TALES from her nightstand, showing it to her friend. "Last night he caught me in the library."
Marie-Louise laughed. "Typical. Well, as long as he does not betray our confidence, there is nothing to worry of. You are a good judge of character." With that, she exited the room fastening her apron around her waist. "Now, where is the scullery? I wonder."
She wandered about a bit before she found it and picking up the two trays, one carefully balanced in each arm, she walked back to the room when her slipper fell from her foot. Glancing down, she struggled to maintain poise and slide the shoe back on without falling, when the mead on one tray slipped off. Her arm jerked, attempting to catch the mead, but did not get the opportunity for someone had already caught it.
She found her eyes connecting with those of violet. "Sir George! I-well- thank you very much." She managed to stutter.
He smiled back at her. "Not a problem, my lady." He replaced the mead on the tray and picked up one. "Allow me to assist you back to your chambers?"
Marie-Louise blushed prettily. "I thank you again, kind sir."
*~*~*~*
Rain pulled on her gown and as she quickly brushed her hair, wondered what was taking Marie-Louise so long. Tired of sitting and waiting, she exited her chambers to see if she could locate the stables and find Sai Sici, disregarding the orders of Marie-Louise that she was to be chaperoned at all times. After a short while, she soon found it and hopped the fence of one of the pastures, heading towards the main stable. Here in the open air she was free, with out the worries she had of her 'royal' life. If only she could learn to show the world inside the castle who she was out here. If only she could make them see her for who she was.
"Sai! Sai? Are you here?" She wandered aisle after aisle, searching for someone who could help, but to no avail. "Lord, this place is almost as extensive as the palace itself!" Suddenly, she turned her head at a sound from a nearby stable. She suddenly felt very alone, wishing that she had waited for Marie-Louise to return before she had gone to visit Sai. She shook her head, to rid her mind of the anxiety that was taking over. "Sai?" Quietly, she followed the sound of noises, whispering again, "Is that you Sai?" She peered around the door of the stable from whence the noises were emanating, and then jumped back in shock.
*~*~*~*
"Princess Marie-Louise!"
Rain blushed at the sound of Lady Allenby's voice and she attempted to flatten her body even more against the stable door. The last two people she wanted to run into, doing some quite inappropriate things in Rain's opinion, had caught her, and there was no way for her to escape. Regaining composure and with as much dignity as she could muster, she turned back to face them. "Why, Prince Domon, Lady Allenby. What a delightful surprise. I did not realize that anyone else would be strolling about in the stables this early in the morning."
"Yes, we were just about to go for a ride this morning, an all-day excursion." Lady Allenby was still adjusting her dress, and Domon appeared quite flustered. The wheels in Lady Allenby's head began to turn and she smiled wickedly. "Perhaps you would care to go along with us, Princess. I am sure that Prince Domon would love to have you along, as would I."
Rain stared at Lady Allenby, trying to figure out why she would be so kind to her. She wanted more than anything to back down from the request, but she remembered her promise to Kyoji, to help rid Domon of Allenby's snake- like grasp. "Yes, I would very much like that, Lady Allenby."
Domon gave her a strange look, questioning her. Remembering their last meeting on horseback, he spoke, "We do not wish to impose on any plans that you may have already had, princess." He did not want her to hurt herself again.
Rain mistook his purpose for making this statement. //So, he is insulting me once again, implying that I am a terrible rider. Either that or he wants to be alone with the Duchess so he can get more of what she was just giving him.// Ignoring his comment, she continued pleasantly. "I cannot think of anything better to do than go for a ride. It is quite a lovely day, is it not? Shall I meet you back here once I change?"
Lady Allenby nodded. "That would be delightful. I shall inform the cook that we shall need to feed one more." As she watched Rain disappear, she smiled wickedly. That poor little girl. Going on an all-day ride in unknown territory. Anything could happen to her. Why, she could get hurt! And if she was injured too badly, she would have to return to Mersenia! What a terrible, terrible shame that would be.
*~*~*~*
Rain met Marie-Louise and George in the hallway just as she was returning to her chambers. Marie-Louise was giggling at something that George had said. He was smiling at her, taking pleasure in watching her laugh.
"Good day, Sir George. Rain, I wish to inform you that I would be accompanying Prince Domon and Duchess Allenby on a ride today. I am sorry to leave you alone all day. Sir George, I do not care to trespass on your generosity, but might I ask that you look after Rain today? It is a new place for both of us, and we are both unaccustomed to the surroundings. If you would not mind, I would be most grateful to know that Rain would be safe." She smiled at Marie-Louise's excited reaction.
George's face lit up. "Why of course, princess. Nothing would give me greater pleasure. Any time at all. Lady Rain, allow me to carry this to your chambers and then I shall await your company in the study. Come whenever you are ready."
When he had gone and closed the door, Marie-Louise turned to face Rain as she helped her change into a riding habit. "Oh, Rain! You are so devious! Thank you so much! I shall have a wonderful time. But what about you? Are you really going to ride? And in front of Domon again!"
"Do not worry, Marie-Louise. I shall be fine. Have fun with George. He seems like a very nice man." She winked at Marie-Louise as she left to meet George.
*~*~*~*
Domon was nervous about Marie-Louise coming along. He did not trust Allenby's reasons for asking her to join them. He flushed again when he remembered Marie-Louise's interruption of them making love. Why was he suddenly concerned about this princess? Allenby's antics to rid him of the other princesses had never disturbed him before, so why now? Nothing was different about this princess.
He sighed as Princess Marie-Louise strode into the stables once again, wearing a charming shade of blue to match her eyes. Who was he kidding? He found this princess terribly attractive. She was beautiful, no, more than beautiful. Enchanting. Just the way she entered a room, he could not tear his eyes from her. Her rich, full lips, sparkling aquamarine eyes, long legs and perfect hourglass figure all gave Allenby competition. No one had ever caused such feelings in him, not even Allenby herself.
Grasping the reins of his horse in his right hand, he watched apprehensively as Marie-Louise mounted her horse. Why had she agreed to come along? She had seen what had gone on between him and Allenby, and although they had not gone too far, it had been enough to send most others running in disgust. Allenby's glare alone could accomplish as much. But instead, she had stayed. Why? She was strong, not someone to whimper and cry in the corner after defeat; she had proved thus much in her ability to remount her horse after falling, and here she was again, riding with him, in spite of any embarrassment she may have suffered. Yes, she was strong.
"Shall we go?" Lady Allenby asked. She had not missed Domon's stare of trepidation. He was confused, but she could not figure out why. What had happened between the two? Had she missed something? She became irritated at this thought.
Urging her horse forward, Rain took off at an elegant canter, skirts billowing in the wind. She had improved her riding skills greatly since her confrontation with Domon that day, and now was the time to prove it. Turning her horse in a circle, her gloved hands gripped the reins, demonstrating her complete control of the gelding's movements.
"Are you both coming, or shall I have to venture on my own today?" She questioned with a laugh.
Domon was stunned. She had quite improved since that day he saw her fallen on the ground. He smiled at the unexpected, but delightful surprise. She was quite extraordinary. He followed after her, leaving Allenby behind.
Allenby's fury grew as she watched Domon take off after the princess through narrowed eyes. She spurred her horse forward to attempt to catch up. That girl was disrupting her plans, distracting Domon like that, she was causing her to lose her grip on Domon. She was going to be more difficult to deal with than the others, but the little princess was not immortal. One way or the other, she would be destroyed, even if she had to resort to murder.
*~*~*~*
REVIEW!! Please! Remember my previous note!