Heart Duel
Disclaimer: See previous chapters
Chapter 8: A Kiss Will Suffice
Dressed in a pale yellow gown trimmed with gold and decorated on the bodice with a sprinkling of sunstones, I stood at the marble landing of the grand stairway, my hand which had a fully bloomed pale rose corsage encircling its wrist, rested lightly on the oak banister.
The gown was simple, but I felt like a Queen as I surveyed the crowd, which had gathered for the ball held to welcome the delegation from Erev-li- Erval.
I walked lightly down the marble steps, my head held high, as I inhaled the fragrant aromas wafting throughout the entire room.
When I arrived at the bottom, I tried to blend into the crowd, but to no avail. Lady Renata and Lady Trisana, who seemed to be enjoying themselves tremendously, immediately claimed me.
I contributed their growing excitement to the attention the three of us were drawing from the many young lords from Erev-li-Erval.
After making a few rounds around the ballroom with Renata and Trisana, I discovered that most of the delegation from Erev-li-Erval, were red heads and their skins ranged from fair to an earthy brown.
I made a mental note to read up on this trait.
As Renata and Trisana left me to dance with a couple of lords, I made my way towards The banquet table, which was piled high with sweet meats and various bottles of wine.
I spotted Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel holding a conversation with Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei. Since I had failed to greet both my Uncle and Aunt that day, it was only appropriate for me to do so now.
Aunt Mel saw me first, and gave me her most dazzling smile, while beckoning me to join them with a slight flick of her fan. I nodded my agreement and was soon standing next to her.
My sudden arrival interrupted the conversation the two men were having, and they both looked up in surprise. Uncle Danric sketched a bow while Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei took my outstretched hand and kissed it.
The question in his eyes was hard to miss, but I kept my face bland and continued to stare at him unblinkingly.
Instead of resuming their conversation, Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel excused themselves to entertain the other guests.
That left me with him.
"Would you like to dance?" he asked.
"Yes. But not with you."
He must have been shocked at my straightforward refusal, but continued the conversation anyway.
"The courage to speak your mind is commendable."
"At least I have a mind." I retorted.
"Please M'lady, you aren't still angry at what happened earlier today, are you?" he asked in a concerned whisper.
"No, I am angry at the way you reacted to it." I replied just as quietly.
"Pray tell what I did wrongly."
"You laughed." At this, I dropped my gaze from his piercing golden brown ones.
And held me close enough to remind me of home. (A/N: I'm not sure how to do the italics yet. Forgive me.)
"I apologise then. Am I forgiven?"
"Maybe." I replied, eyes still downcast.
I willed him to go away, but he didn't budge an inch. He didn't even move a muscle.
We must have been quite a sight, both our heads bent as if in conversation, but not a word being exchanged. Muffled whispers near us drew my attention, and I looked up to see a few groups of courtiers staring pointedly at us whilst whispering amongst themselves.
My cheeks flushed red, but he stood a foot away from me with his eyes glazed over and his face expressionless.
I moved to walk past him. As I did so, his hand shot out to grab my arm. I gasped, glancing around to see if anyone noticed his sudden movement.
"You haven't answered my question, M'lady," he said, smiling lightly.
"What question?" I hissed, my eyes aflame with anger.
"May I have this dance?" he whispered, loud enough only for me to hear. His breath tickled my cheek, causing me to giggle at the sensation.
"Oh, alright! But you had better leave me alone after this." I warned, shaking my closed fan in the 'you are very improper' mode.
"If you wish, M'lady," he replied, smiling lightly while offering me his arm and leading me towards the dance floor.
The crowd parted to let us through, as he, like his sister was a guest of honour.
We arrived at the dance floor just as Derrick and Princess Meridanaria, and Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel began to dance. The entire dance floor was empty, save for the six of us.
Derrick winked at me over his partner's shoulder, and I rolled my eyes in response. He had returned to being his usual joking self.
A throat being cleared brought me back to where I really was - dancing with the Crown Prince.
He was dressed to the nines yet again. He looked the part of a King, decked out in gold from head to toe. I had to stop myself from snorting at his extravagance.
The other ladies seemed to think otherwise.
As we whirled around the perimeter of the dance floor, audible sighs could be heard. I, like Princess Meridanaria received my fair share of poisoned glares.
It wasn't as if I were enjoying this!
Alright, maybe I liked the way his hand rested on the small of my back, and the way he lightly clasped my hand, and the way he twirled and caught me effortlessly, and.
What am I thinking?
I must've gone mad for thinking such thoughts!
"You look really beautiful tonight," he commented.
"Thank you," I replied somewhat breathlessly.
Was it because of the dancing or because he complimented me?
My gaze met his as the dance ended. His eyes, like his sister's were expressive, but he could hide his emotions well when he chose.
Now, he appraised me as a man would a woman, making me shiver involuntarily.
The ballroom suddenly fell silent. Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel were to make an announcement. Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei kissed my hand - which I didn't realise was still nestled snugly in his, and departed to join Uncle Danric, Aunt Mel, Derrick and Princess Meridanaria on the dais.
"Ladies, Gentlemen and our distinguished guests from Erev-li-Erval, I thank you all for taking time to attend this ball," announced Uncle Danric, lifting his wine glass in a toast.
"The reason for hosting this ball was obviously to welcome our guests from Erev-li-Erval." A round of applause greeted this.
"However," continued Uncle Danric, "we had an ulterior motive."
He beckoned Derrick forward with a nod of his head and a discreet wink, before returning to stand beside his wife.
Derrick who was usually nervous at being at the centre of attraction, walked calmly towards the edge of dais with Princess Meridanaria by his side.
His calm composure did not last long.
"I - I mean, WE have an announcement to make," he said stuttering slightly, while he turned slightly to extend his hand to the princess who was standing behind him.
As she took his hand with a watery smile, he smiled encouragingly at her and indicated for her to continue their announcement.
"We are to be married in three months," said Princess Meridanaria, gaining confidence with each word that left her lips.
The sadness in her eyes just hours ago was replaced with overwhelming happiness and excitement as they sparkled with new life.
Although it had not been love at first sight, at least they seemed blissfully in love right now. I was glad that my talk with Derrick had resulted in such instantaneous results.
The applause that rang out then was deafening. Derrick wore a look of dazed happiness and a lopsided smile, while Princess Meridanaria blushed deeply, smiling sweetly behind her lace fan, her eyes downcast demurely.
When she dared a look at Derrick, however, she suddenly let out a giggle, her face still partially hidden by her fan. That giggle soon became a laugh when the rest of us realised what she was giggling at, and started laughing.
It wasn't a rude laugh, but one of pure amusement - and one she couldn't stifle. (Not that we could).
Her laughter tinkled like a bell rung on a clear spring morning, and the expression of pure joy washing over her delicate features was something to behold.
But it was the look upon Derrick's face, which was priceless!
"What is so funny?" he asked indignantly.
"You are!" she replied, as another peal of laughter escaped from her lips.
"Hmph! How dare you laugh at your future husband!" he scolded her in jest, inciting even more laughter from the avidly watching crowd below the dais.
His reprimand just caused her to laugh even more, tears welling up in her violet eyes.
"I fear my sister is hard to silence when she is having a fit of giggles, but you have to admit that you did look silly indeed Your Highness," said the Crown Prince mock-solemnly, as he casually walked over to Derrick and patted him on the shoulder with one hand, while holding his wine glass in the other.
Derrick arched an eyebrow at the Crown Prince's remark before frowning.
"What then must I do to silence her, and in turn save whatever dignity I have left?" asked Derrick, directing his question at the Crown Prince.
"I'm sure a kiss would suffice," replied the Crown Prince coolly, before taking a sip of wine.
Upon hearing this, Princess Meridanaria quickly sobered, her laughter dying as quickly as they had come.
"Kaelen, you can't be serious!" she asked her brother, violet eyes wide with shock and fiery hair in slight disarray.
Before he could answer, Derrick pulled her towards him and kissed her lightly on the lips, causing her to stiffen abruptly.
The crowd roared its approval, although I spied many a glare of jealousy from both the young lords and ladies - one of which belonged to Lady Tamora of Savona.
When they broke apart, they smiled embarrassedly at each other.
I released a breath I did not know I was holding.
As the courtiers toasted to the health of the future King and Queen of Remalna, I wove in and out of crowd in an attempt to reach the dais. Upon reaching my destination, Princess Meridanria caught my eye and excused herself from the various courtiers who were congratulating her.
As she walked excitedly towards me, I couldn't help but notice how her smile seemed to widen.
"Thank you, so much." She whispered next to my ear as she embraced me.
Pulling away, I looked at her quizzically, trying to feign innocence. "Thank you?"
She raised her eyebrows in amusement. "Derrick told me."
"He did?"
"Yes, apparently. And it helped."
"I think you and Derrick balance and complement each other on different aspects. A perfect match!" I declared.
"You think so?" asked Meridanaria.
"I don't mean to judge, but that little fiasco on the dais just now proves how you two can bring out a different side of the other - although that is Derrick's typical behaviour," I added after some consideration. "On the other hand, your mild nature would help tame Derrick's rowdy one, as his would add a little spice to your life." I grinned at her when I reached the end of my little speech, one she reciprocated.
"That is a lot of observations for a day," she replied thoughtfully, "but you summed it all up pretty well!" she continued, before rewarding me with her tinkling laughter.
"So," I asked, "what do you think of my cousin?"
"We have much in common, and he is unlike any prince I've met," she answered, choosing her words with care.
"Unlike your brother, you mean." I replied pointedly.
"Indeed, Kaelen is more serious. He often chides me for not behaving like a proper lady, especially at such functions," she replied, indicating our surroundings with her fan.
"He isn't much of a gentleman himself," I commented, remembering our encounter earlier that day. "But I have to agree that he seems to be on his best behaviour tonight."
I was just about to congratulate her on her betrothal, when a stranger with hair so light a yellow it seemed white, strode confidently towards us, wine glass in hand.
"Your highness, congratulations on your betrothal," he said with a deep voice. "But why, may I ask, were we not told of it?" he asked with an air of casual interest.
"I didn't think it would be of much interest, " replied Meridanaria evenly.
"If your betrothal isn't important, then what is?" he asked, mildly surprised.
"My brother's marriage of course!" she replied, stating the obvious, before introducing me to Lord Felix - the son of Lady Fialma.
At the mention of his mother, I must've expressed surprise and shock. But he just smiled and said, "a small world isn't it? Luckily, I mean you and your family no harm."
"Oh, I didn't mean it that way!" I apologised, afraid that I had offended him.
"Don't worry, I didn't take it to heart," he replied with a warm smile.
By now, the dancing had resumed. Derrick joined us to reclaim his fiancée for a dance, while Lord Felix asked the same of me.
He was, surprisingly, a good dancer, especially for one so tall and muscular.
His features were certainly not as fine as Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei's, but his charming smile and easy manner made him much more pleasant to be around.
"How was your trip here?" I asked, trying to make conversation.
"Quite pleasant, although travelling through the forest was quite an experience. I felt as if I was being watched, and embarrassed as I am to admit, it made me nervous," he answered with a faint hint of a blush on his fair cheeks.
"The Hill Folk have that effect on people," I answered, remembering my own experiences with them.
"As do you, Lady Tylana," he said huskily.
Somewhat flustered at his flirtatious remark, I cleared my throat and mumbled an inaudible "thank you".
"Forgive me if I startled you M'lady, but I only spoke the truth," he replied sincerely, staring down into my emerald green eyes with his azure blue ones.
Fearful that I might drown in those pale sapphire eyes, I lowered my head, determined to stare straight ahead while the butterflies in my stomach settled themselves. Unfortunately, this did little to help, as all I saw was a cream coloured tunic pulled almost taut over his muscular frame.
He twirled me for a final time before the dance ended. Glad to be free of his hypnotic gaze, I sighed inwardly in relief.
"It was a pleasure dancing with you Lady Tylana," he said bowing gracefully. "Will I see you again?"
"I believe you will," I replied with what I hoped was a confident smile gracing my face.
As he turned and left, I admired the way his muscles rippled underneath his tunic.
Me, and my silly thoughts!
Feeling tired, I decided to retire for the night after wishing my friends and family good night.As I left the ballroom, I couldn't help but notice many prominent ladies of court clustered around the Crown Prince like bees to a hive.
Needless to say, Lady Tamora was in the midst of it all, her arm wrapped possessively around his, her beautiful smile unable to hide the menacing glimmer in her bright blue eyes. She reminded me of a cat with ever-sharp claws, ready to strike at her opponent or whoever unlucky enough to cross her path.
This was to be expected. With Derrick engaged, he was no longer an eligible bachelor, although this wouldn't stop all the ladies of court from giving up on him. However, I believed that the Crown Prince would keep most of them busy for a while, considering his status and availability.
With a yawn, I dismissed all thought of the Crown Prince and the ball, and even the charming Lord Felix.
* * * * * As I lay in bed planning what I should do in the days ahead before my Flower Day, an idea for an excursion struck me. It would be risky, but I was bored by the monotony of court life.
Mixing with the ordinary folk again would be a refreshing change!
* * * * * A/N: I don't think this chapter is as good as the previous one, actually I kinda think I'm betta at writing conversations, so dun mind me if it sounds draggy, yeah?
Before I thank my reviewers, I'd like to thank my mother, my father, my sister, my brother.lol.just joking, my beta reader actually.the one and only WONGWAN! For giving me some kewl ideas and helping me to improve upon my chaps. The main reason she does this is coz she can't get into fanfic.net for some unknown reason, so I let her read it first.also, she has been my neighbour since we were in nappies, we were classmates for 2 years, and now we r school mates.yeah..that's abt all.(btw, she wanted her nick to appear real big, so its in bold.) Hahaz.crazee me.
Now the reviewers:
Coppercurls: glad u like it!
Alegna: ok.I'll try to think of new phrases, yeah?
Sak: hahaz, u're definitely a romance person, well kaelen-dei is in the nxt chap.so keep an eye out for him! But what makes u so sure she'll fall for him.hmm?
Savannah: Finally, an approval from u! dun take it the wrong way, but u're my toughest reviewer, so am glad chap 7 pleased u.hopefully this one does too..*crosses fingers*
Fifi: she noes of it.but she duzznt care.*boohoo*
Hannirose: I guess he'll have to.now he has a betta reason too.Love! U've got a crush on Kaelen? How sweet..awww.I think I've made him too sweet.hmmm
As always, R/R!!!!!
Disclaimer: See previous chapters
Chapter 8: A Kiss Will Suffice
Dressed in a pale yellow gown trimmed with gold and decorated on the bodice with a sprinkling of sunstones, I stood at the marble landing of the grand stairway, my hand which had a fully bloomed pale rose corsage encircling its wrist, rested lightly on the oak banister.
The gown was simple, but I felt like a Queen as I surveyed the crowd, which had gathered for the ball held to welcome the delegation from Erev-li- Erval.
I walked lightly down the marble steps, my head held high, as I inhaled the fragrant aromas wafting throughout the entire room.
When I arrived at the bottom, I tried to blend into the crowd, but to no avail. Lady Renata and Lady Trisana, who seemed to be enjoying themselves tremendously, immediately claimed me.
I contributed their growing excitement to the attention the three of us were drawing from the many young lords from Erev-li-Erval.
After making a few rounds around the ballroom with Renata and Trisana, I discovered that most of the delegation from Erev-li-Erval, were red heads and their skins ranged from fair to an earthy brown.
I made a mental note to read up on this trait.
As Renata and Trisana left me to dance with a couple of lords, I made my way towards The banquet table, which was piled high with sweet meats and various bottles of wine.
I spotted Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel holding a conversation with Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei. Since I had failed to greet both my Uncle and Aunt that day, it was only appropriate for me to do so now.
Aunt Mel saw me first, and gave me her most dazzling smile, while beckoning me to join them with a slight flick of her fan. I nodded my agreement and was soon standing next to her.
My sudden arrival interrupted the conversation the two men were having, and they both looked up in surprise. Uncle Danric sketched a bow while Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei took my outstretched hand and kissed it.
The question in his eyes was hard to miss, but I kept my face bland and continued to stare at him unblinkingly.
Instead of resuming their conversation, Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel excused themselves to entertain the other guests.
That left me with him.
"Would you like to dance?" he asked.
"Yes. But not with you."
He must have been shocked at my straightforward refusal, but continued the conversation anyway.
"The courage to speak your mind is commendable."
"At least I have a mind." I retorted.
"Please M'lady, you aren't still angry at what happened earlier today, are you?" he asked in a concerned whisper.
"No, I am angry at the way you reacted to it." I replied just as quietly.
"Pray tell what I did wrongly."
"You laughed." At this, I dropped my gaze from his piercing golden brown ones.
And held me close enough to remind me of home. (A/N: I'm not sure how to do the italics yet. Forgive me.)
"I apologise then. Am I forgiven?"
"Maybe." I replied, eyes still downcast.
I willed him to go away, but he didn't budge an inch. He didn't even move a muscle.
We must have been quite a sight, both our heads bent as if in conversation, but not a word being exchanged. Muffled whispers near us drew my attention, and I looked up to see a few groups of courtiers staring pointedly at us whilst whispering amongst themselves.
My cheeks flushed red, but he stood a foot away from me with his eyes glazed over and his face expressionless.
I moved to walk past him. As I did so, his hand shot out to grab my arm. I gasped, glancing around to see if anyone noticed his sudden movement.
"You haven't answered my question, M'lady," he said, smiling lightly.
"What question?" I hissed, my eyes aflame with anger.
"May I have this dance?" he whispered, loud enough only for me to hear. His breath tickled my cheek, causing me to giggle at the sensation.
"Oh, alright! But you had better leave me alone after this." I warned, shaking my closed fan in the 'you are very improper' mode.
"If you wish, M'lady," he replied, smiling lightly while offering me his arm and leading me towards the dance floor.
The crowd parted to let us through, as he, like his sister was a guest of honour.
We arrived at the dance floor just as Derrick and Princess Meridanaria, and Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel began to dance. The entire dance floor was empty, save for the six of us.
Derrick winked at me over his partner's shoulder, and I rolled my eyes in response. He had returned to being his usual joking self.
A throat being cleared brought me back to where I really was - dancing with the Crown Prince.
He was dressed to the nines yet again. He looked the part of a King, decked out in gold from head to toe. I had to stop myself from snorting at his extravagance.
The other ladies seemed to think otherwise.
As we whirled around the perimeter of the dance floor, audible sighs could be heard. I, like Princess Meridanaria received my fair share of poisoned glares.
It wasn't as if I were enjoying this!
Alright, maybe I liked the way his hand rested on the small of my back, and the way he lightly clasped my hand, and the way he twirled and caught me effortlessly, and.
What am I thinking?
I must've gone mad for thinking such thoughts!
"You look really beautiful tonight," he commented.
"Thank you," I replied somewhat breathlessly.
Was it because of the dancing or because he complimented me?
My gaze met his as the dance ended. His eyes, like his sister's were expressive, but he could hide his emotions well when he chose.
Now, he appraised me as a man would a woman, making me shiver involuntarily.
The ballroom suddenly fell silent. Uncle Danric and Aunt Mel were to make an announcement. Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei kissed my hand - which I didn't realise was still nestled snugly in his, and departed to join Uncle Danric, Aunt Mel, Derrick and Princess Meridanaria on the dais.
"Ladies, Gentlemen and our distinguished guests from Erev-li-Erval, I thank you all for taking time to attend this ball," announced Uncle Danric, lifting his wine glass in a toast.
"The reason for hosting this ball was obviously to welcome our guests from Erev-li-Erval." A round of applause greeted this.
"However," continued Uncle Danric, "we had an ulterior motive."
He beckoned Derrick forward with a nod of his head and a discreet wink, before returning to stand beside his wife.
Derrick who was usually nervous at being at the centre of attraction, walked calmly towards the edge of dais with Princess Meridanaria by his side.
His calm composure did not last long.
"I - I mean, WE have an announcement to make," he said stuttering slightly, while he turned slightly to extend his hand to the princess who was standing behind him.
As she took his hand with a watery smile, he smiled encouragingly at her and indicated for her to continue their announcement.
"We are to be married in three months," said Princess Meridanaria, gaining confidence with each word that left her lips.
The sadness in her eyes just hours ago was replaced with overwhelming happiness and excitement as they sparkled with new life.
Although it had not been love at first sight, at least they seemed blissfully in love right now. I was glad that my talk with Derrick had resulted in such instantaneous results.
The applause that rang out then was deafening. Derrick wore a look of dazed happiness and a lopsided smile, while Princess Meridanaria blushed deeply, smiling sweetly behind her lace fan, her eyes downcast demurely.
When she dared a look at Derrick, however, she suddenly let out a giggle, her face still partially hidden by her fan. That giggle soon became a laugh when the rest of us realised what she was giggling at, and started laughing.
It wasn't a rude laugh, but one of pure amusement - and one she couldn't stifle. (Not that we could).
Her laughter tinkled like a bell rung on a clear spring morning, and the expression of pure joy washing over her delicate features was something to behold.
But it was the look upon Derrick's face, which was priceless!
"What is so funny?" he asked indignantly.
"You are!" she replied, as another peal of laughter escaped from her lips.
"Hmph! How dare you laugh at your future husband!" he scolded her in jest, inciting even more laughter from the avidly watching crowd below the dais.
His reprimand just caused her to laugh even more, tears welling up in her violet eyes.
"I fear my sister is hard to silence when she is having a fit of giggles, but you have to admit that you did look silly indeed Your Highness," said the Crown Prince mock-solemnly, as he casually walked over to Derrick and patted him on the shoulder with one hand, while holding his wine glass in the other.
Derrick arched an eyebrow at the Crown Prince's remark before frowning.
"What then must I do to silence her, and in turn save whatever dignity I have left?" asked Derrick, directing his question at the Crown Prince.
"I'm sure a kiss would suffice," replied the Crown Prince coolly, before taking a sip of wine.
Upon hearing this, Princess Meridanaria quickly sobered, her laughter dying as quickly as they had come.
"Kaelen, you can't be serious!" she asked her brother, violet eyes wide with shock and fiery hair in slight disarray.
Before he could answer, Derrick pulled her towards him and kissed her lightly on the lips, causing her to stiffen abruptly.
The crowd roared its approval, although I spied many a glare of jealousy from both the young lords and ladies - one of which belonged to Lady Tamora of Savona.
When they broke apart, they smiled embarrassedly at each other.
I released a breath I did not know I was holding.
As the courtiers toasted to the health of the future King and Queen of Remalna, I wove in and out of crowd in an attempt to reach the dais. Upon reaching my destination, Princess Meridanria caught my eye and excused herself from the various courtiers who were congratulating her.
As she walked excitedly towards me, I couldn't help but notice how her smile seemed to widen.
"Thank you, so much." She whispered next to my ear as she embraced me.
Pulling away, I looked at her quizzically, trying to feign innocence. "Thank you?"
She raised her eyebrows in amusement. "Derrick told me."
"He did?"
"Yes, apparently. And it helped."
"I think you and Derrick balance and complement each other on different aspects. A perfect match!" I declared.
"You think so?" asked Meridanaria.
"I don't mean to judge, but that little fiasco on the dais just now proves how you two can bring out a different side of the other - although that is Derrick's typical behaviour," I added after some consideration. "On the other hand, your mild nature would help tame Derrick's rowdy one, as his would add a little spice to your life." I grinned at her when I reached the end of my little speech, one she reciprocated.
"That is a lot of observations for a day," she replied thoughtfully, "but you summed it all up pretty well!" she continued, before rewarding me with her tinkling laughter.
"So," I asked, "what do you think of my cousin?"
"We have much in common, and he is unlike any prince I've met," she answered, choosing her words with care.
"Unlike your brother, you mean." I replied pointedly.
"Indeed, Kaelen is more serious. He often chides me for not behaving like a proper lady, especially at such functions," she replied, indicating our surroundings with her fan.
"He isn't much of a gentleman himself," I commented, remembering our encounter earlier that day. "But I have to agree that he seems to be on his best behaviour tonight."
I was just about to congratulate her on her betrothal, when a stranger with hair so light a yellow it seemed white, strode confidently towards us, wine glass in hand.
"Your highness, congratulations on your betrothal," he said with a deep voice. "But why, may I ask, were we not told of it?" he asked with an air of casual interest.
"I didn't think it would be of much interest, " replied Meridanaria evenly.
"If your betrothal isn't important, then what is?" he asked, mildly surprised.
"My brother's marriage of course!" she replied, stating the obvious, before introducing me to Lord Felix - the son of Lady Fialma.
At the mention of his mother, I must've expressed surprise and shock. But he just smiled and said, "a small world isn't it? Luckily, I mean you and your family no harm."
"Oh, I didn't mean it that way!" I apologised, afraid that I had offended him.
"Don't worry, I didn't take it to heart," he replied with a warm smile.
By now, the dancing had resumed. Derrick joined us to reclaim his fiancée for a dance, while Lord Felix asked the same of me.
He was, surprisingly, a good dancer, especially for one so tall and muscular.
His features were certainly not as fine as Crown Prince Kaelen-Dei's, but his charming smile and easy manner made him much more pleasant to be around.
"How was your trip here?" I asked, trying to make conversation.
"Quite pleasant, although travelling through the forest was quite an experience. I felt as if I was being watched, and embarrassed as I am to admit, it made me nervous," he answered with a faint hint of a blush on his fair cheeks.
"The Hill Folk have that effect on people," I answered, remembering my own experiences with them.
"As do you, Lady Tylana," he said huskily.
Somewhat flustered at his flirtatious remark, I cleared my throat and mumbled an inaudible "thank you".
"Forgive me if I startled you M'lady, but I only spoke the truth," he replied sincerely, staring down into my emerald green eyes with his azure blue ones.
Fearful that I might drown in those pale sapphire eyes, I lowered my head, determined to stare straight ahead while the butterflies in my stomach settled themselves. Unfortunately, this did little to help, as all I saw was a cream coloured tunic pulled almost taut over his muscular frame.
He twirled me for a final time before the dance ended. Glad to be free of his hypnotic gaze, I sighed inwardly in relief.
"It was a pleasure dancing with you Lady Tylana," he said bowing gracefully. "Will I see you again?"
"I believe you will," I replied with what I hoped was a confident smile gracing my face.
As he turned and left, I admired the way his muscles rippled underneath his tunic.
Me, and my silly thoughts!
Feeling tired, I decided to retire for the night after wishing my friends and family good night.As I left the ballroom, I couldn't help but notice many prominent ladies of court clustered around the Crown Prince like bees to a hive.
Needless to say, Lady Tamora was in the midst of it all, her arm wrapped possessively around his, her beautiful smile unable to hide the menacing glimmer in her bright blue eyes. She reminded me of a cat with ever-sharp claws, ready to strike at her opponent or whoever unlucky enough to cross her path.
This was to be expected. With Derrick engaged, he was no longer an eligible bachelor, although this wouldn't stop all the ladies of court from giving up on him. However, I believed that the Crown Prince would keep most of them busy for a while, considering his status and availability.
With a yawn, I dismissed all thought of the Crown Prince and the ball, and even the charming Lord Felix.
* * * * * As I lay in bed planning what I should do in the days ahead before my Flower Day, an idea for an excursion struck me. It would be risky, but I was bored by the monotony of court life.
Mixing with the ordinary folk again would be a refreshing change!
* * * * * A/N: I don't think this chapter is as good as the previous one, actually I kinda think I'm betta at writing conversations, so dun mind me if it sounds draggy, yeah?
Before I thank my reviewers, I'd like to thank my mother, my father, my sister, my brother.lol.just joking, my beta reader actually.the one and only WONGWAN! For giving me some kewl ideas and helping me to improve upon my chaps. The main reason she does this is coz she can't get into fanfic.net for some unknown reason, so I let her read it first.also, she has been my neighbour since we were in nappies, we were classmates for 2 years, and now we r school mates.yeah..that's abt all.(btw, she wanted her nick to appear real big, so its in bold.) Hahaz.crazee me.
Now the reviewers:
Coppercurls: glad u like it!
Alegna: ok.I'll try to think of new phrases, yeah?
Sak: hahaz, u're definitely a romance person, well kaelen-dei is in the nxt chap.so keep an eye out for him! But what makes u so sure she'll fall for him.hmm?
Savannah: Finally, an approval from u! dun take it the wrong way, but u're my toughest reviewer, so am glad chap 7 pleased u.hopefully this one does too..*crosses fingers*
Fifi: she noes of it.but she duzznt care.*boohoo*
Hannirose: I guess he'll have to.now he has a betta reason too.Love! U've got a crush on Kaelen? How sweet..awww.I think I've made him too sweet.hmmm
As always, R/R!!!!!
