Lucy Knight—Thanks for the only review -sniff-. I've actually changed it so that it's set literally right after they were knighted (I'm gathering a week or so afterwards). Yes it is going to be Kel/Neal. And the Lioness's temper is ALWAYS an interesting bit to read!
Disclaimer: Oh yes…I own nada, zippo ZILCH of this. Those are Tamora's lovely creations
please read and review…
Keladry woke before dawn as she was accustomed, to spot Alanna already heading out the door to get some breakfast before the journey to Pirate's Swoop. Kel followed in silence – she knew the Lioness could be exceptionally grumpy in the morning. Instead, she sat and accepted the bread and chunks of cheese Raoul handed her. Neal sat down beside an unknowing Kel, who whirled around and was enveloped into a sea of green. His eyes fixed onto hers as her Yamani mask faltered.
He's amazing. Absolutely amaz—" Kel thought dreamily before mentally slapping herself. He's your best friend for crying out loud! Neal held her eyes beginning to think to himself, Wow she's gorgeous. Her eyes are perfect—Neal you idiot what are you thinking? Kel's your FRIEND!
Overcome by her new emotions for Neal, Kel painfully broke their gaze and looked away, not saying a word. Her mask barely slipped on in time to cover a blush. Both of the new knights finished their meals in silence. Kel needed some time alone and fled to the stables having finished her meal.
She tacked up her temperamental gelding Peachblosson as well as the more levelheaded Hoshi and stood in between the two stalls for a moment to collect her thoughts. Why is this happening? Neal's my best friend. He has been since he sponsored me as a page, eight years ago. Kel thought confused and distraught over her new feelings. Kel sighed as she led the two horses out of the barn, her mask slipping into place.
Seconds after Keladry left, her best friend entered the stables, equally confused as Kel had been. He found his mare, Magewhisper and tacked her up deep in thought. Why in Mithros name is this happening? Kel and I have been friends for ages. Why now? Neal threw up his hands in frustration. For once, just once, he wouldn't get a straight answer — he'd have to wait and guess. Sighing, Neal led Magewhisper out to wait for departure.
Alanna had watched as Neal had exited, as she had entered through the opposite door. The Lioness grinned slightly as Neal led his mount out. They're completely confused over what's happening. They don't want to ruin that friendship nor want to admit love. If they ever do, they'll make a pretty great couple! She just wanted them to be happy. With that final thought, she saddled her mare Starfire and led her to the rest of the waiting group.
Having eaten and packed their belongings onto the packhorses the group— Alanna, Kel, Neal, Raoul, Numair, Buri, Daine and Third Company (Onua and the Riders would catch up)— started off. Kel hung back as the King's Own and the others led the way towards Pirate's Swoop hoping no one would notice her absence. Not a chance. Bright lights were swirling upon the horizon as Alanna realized that Kel hadn't ridden up with her. She had seen Kel's mask slip as Neal held her eyes. Even though it was extremely early, the Lioness managed a half-smile as she trotted back towards her former squire. Kel on the other hand, hardly noticed as Alanna's feisty mare Starfire pulled up slightly to her left (out of Peachblossom's reach) Lady knights rode on in silence for most of the morning and as the morning droned on Alanna began to get slightly more talkative…and anxious.