Chapter 4- The Triplets of Laquaria

I am pumping these chapters out… I guess when the idea's there, it's there.

Well on to the next chapter where we meet the infamous "lizard man" :P

Thanks to Glaze my ever faithful reviewer and to Lulai! I have decided on e-ice cream now because it is hot and summer! YAY!

I will do my next chapter in half/half POV probably, thanks for your inputs!

After my sisters readied themselves for the ball this evening, we made our way to the grand staircase. We linked arms and descended, my head blank with nervousness. I scanned the assembled court, and seeing no trace of an odious lizard, breathed a sigh of relief. Maybe he had decided not to come after all? As we reached the bottom of the stairs, my sisters' fiancés claimed them for a dance. Feeling a bit left out, a remained where I was until Lord Zane appeared in front of me. I looked up into his handsome face and immediately flushed.

"Would Her Highness care to dance?" He politely inquired.

"Ummm…alright…" I replied with slight hesitation. I wasn't really sure it was appropriate for me to dance with the Lord of Darin on the night of my engagement to someone else; however, he wasn't there, so I felt obligated.

As we stepped onto the dance floor, Zane spoke again.

"There have been rumors circulating court that your soon to be betrothed is inhuman Arya."

How did he know? I quickly thought of a reply.

"I really have know idea, I haven't actually met him you see, and well…"

"Do you even know his name?" He pressed. I answered no again, attempting to halt the rush of questions being thrown my way.

"I apologize if my questions unnerve you Princess. If you are ever in need of…assistance… please do not hesitate to ask me for help. I have many merchant ships that travel back and forth to Darin…"

Was that a hint? Was he trying to tell me I could stow away in one of his ships? I thought about it, but if I did, I knew I would be breaking father's word. His reputation would be ruined. Utterly confused and lost in thought, I finished the dance in silence.

A loud banging erupted throughout the hall. My heart stopped and my eyes frantically searched the room for my family members. Thankfully, Della and Narie rushed over to me, but my father was nowhere to be found. Was he that frightened?

The heralds opened the large oak door and I clenched my fists together so tightly that my nails drew blood. Oh why didn't I escape when I'd had the chance? \A/N that was for you Glaze/

A lone figure stood in the doorway. As it entered the room, I could hear the whole crowd gasp. My father was right. The creature that was soon to be my husband looked like a hideous cross between a lizard and a man. Grey-green scales covered its body and its eyes were so bright a blue that they could rival the ocean surrounding Laquaria. Instead of fingers, the being had 3 digits ending in vicious looking claws, and its teeth were sharp and pointed. The strangest thing about the monster though, was its clothing. It was dressed in the finest brown velvet that, oddly enough, didn't clash with the tone of its skin, but still looked out of place.

I admit it. I had never been so scared in my entire life, but feeling compelled to do my royal duty, I approached, cleared my throat and began to speak

"Welcome to the palace of Laquaria sir. I am Princess Arya Falaqua and these are my royal sisters Dellaryanna and Narayatha Falaqua. We invite you to partake in this evenings festivities in honor of our...forthcoming engagement."

I finished speaking and bowed my head, not knowing what to expect. I heard the mutterings and whispers of the surrounding court members and trembled in fright and humiliation. To my surprise, the voice that answered me was not at all alarming, but calm and smooth.

"Thank you princess, but I must plead exhaustion, and I wonder if I would be able to get some rest. By all means, please continue with the festivities."

"Very well then, I shall show you to your rooms."

I knew I could just as easily have had a servant take him to his quarters, but my curiosity held the better of me. I felt the need to learn more about this strange beast that dressed and spoke like the most elegant of courtiers.

He extended his arm and to my shock, I took it without hesitation. As we ascended the steps I caught a glimpse of Lord Zane, and vaguely recalled his hidden proposition.

I bravely attempted to start a conversation.

"Thank you for saving my father. Laquaria is gravely indebted to you."

"It was no trouble, however I believe he feared me more than he did the wolves that threatened to kill him." He said smiling. At least, I thought it was a smile.

"May I inquire as to your name sir? It's only fair, seeing as you know mine."

"My name…Oh how rude of me… It's Varien." The creature looked down at me, a look of puzzlement in his striking eyes. "What is it Princess?"

I realized I was staring and turned as red as a ripe tomato for the millionth time today.

"Sorry…" I mumbled as we reached the doors to Varien's chambers. "Well, goodnight. If you need anything don't hesitate to summon a servant. Breakfast is at cockcrow if you care to partake of it."

"Will you be there Princess?" He asked. I blushed again. Why was he making me do that so much? He was beginning to rival Zane.

"Well…yes…I believe so."

"Alright then. I will see you at that time." He flashed another one of his reptilian smiles and vanished behind the doors.

Another chapter…/grins in satisfaction/ I like it! I hope I made Varien seem nice…cause he really is! Sorry that it's kind of short, but O well...:)

Oh and I just figured out the liney thing, thanks Lulai!

Ta for now! Please review! Pretty please with sugar on top!

>',' SerayaNeko >'.'