A/N: Yea, I haven't written in forever, but I wrote this forever ago, and decided to post so…

080808080808

Aly laughed with Alan at the top of the stairs as they waited to be announced at their birthday ball. Everyone else was waiting in the large hall to the birthday twins to arrive. "Aunt Thayet really went wild, considering it's only our 17th birthday."

Alan laughed, his arm linked through hers. "Well, I'll be a knight next year so she can't throw both of us one, maybe just you…"

Aly groaned, "She wouldn't," she paused and then smiled mischievously.

Alan knew that smile too well, "Oh, no, what are you thinking? What are you going to force me to do?"

"Well, your squire and knight friends are going to be here, right?"

Alan shrugged, "They'll have to be here: Roald probably guilted them into coming, and they'll want to dance with the Court ladies that are your friends -"

Aly smirked, "Please, not all of them are my friends…."

Alan laughed, "You want me to introduce you to the squires and knights? Why should I bother? They'll probably introduce them to you themselves."

Aly grinned, "Oh, come on, introduce me! It'll be more fun!" She paused, "Want me to introduce you to some of the ladies?"

Alan laughed, ignoring her question. "What about your friend from the Own?"

Aly made sure to smile, not to let her true emotions show, although she wasn't sure how she exactly felt about James since Zeke. "What about him? Come on, Alan! Just some birthday fun!"

The herald said to them from behind, "Okay, it's your turn."

Aly's request was forgotten as the twins turned to each other. "Well," Alan grinned, "here we go. To our huge birthday ball."

Aly groaned and started laughing as the curtain opened and the herald announced, "Lady Alianne of Pirate's Swoop and Squire Alan of Pirate's Swoop."

For those who had never seen the two of them, they never would have guessed they were twins. Even their faces, which were the only similar features they had, were so different: their eyes, hair, and even height. Alan was the tallest in his family, but was almost a foot taller than his twin.

They were trying not to laugh as they walked down the long stars: there were so many people there for their birthday. Thom was laughing in the crowd too. When Aly pointed him out to Alan, the two laughed harder. Thayet saw and nudged her husband, "Are you sure they aren't triplets who can communicate with their minds?"

All eyes were on the twins as they descended, but they didn't notice. Alan didn't notice that there were quite a few court ladies, ladies-in-waiting and Queen's Riders who watched him, thinking how attractive he looked in Queenscove colors.

James and other members of the Own, young knights and squires were watching Aly walk gracefully down the stairs in her simple green dress. Lalasa had wanted to add pearls, beads, ruffles and anything else she could think of, but Aly had refused. She wanted a plain, simple pale green dress with darker green embroidery on the edges.

Aly and Alan curtsied and bowed to the King and Queen, trying not to laugh. Jon and Thayet both bit back grins. "Lady Alianne, our gift to you is a bit unconventional, but we hereby appoint you an official Tortallan Ambassador."

Thayet's red lips grinned, "You're the first woman Ambassador and the youngest of any. Congratulations," she kissed Aly on both cheeks as the hall burst into applause.

"And for you, Alan, we have permitted and given your knight-master, Sir Nealan of Queenscove, enough gold to give you a new shield, chain mail and anything else that you need or he sees fit. But upon your knighthood, we promise to bestow a more fitting and personal gift."

The hall applauded again and soon music began to fill the hall as all of the twins' extended and adoptive family came to congratulate them. A very pregnant Buri congratulated Aly; although she had hoped that one day she'd command the Queen's Riders. Aly replied saying that she was only 17, to which everyone laughed.

Prince Roald and his wife, Princess Shinko, who had just returned from the Yamani Islands, congratulated her too. Roald whispered in her ear, "I hear we could be working together very closely soon."

Aly grinned, "And in the future a great deal too, I believe. But was there ever any doubt?"

Even Numair and Daine came, although their children weren't present. Although he hadn't said a word, Aly knew that he'd be speaking with her soon enough.

Neal, Kel and Dom were the last ones to approach as Alanna and George came over as well. Dom and George shook hands, grinning as though they had been friends forever, but had actually only met recently. Aly smiled to herself: the two men who were in love with the only female knights in the realm. They had a lot in common.

Neal seemed sad however and Alanna pointed this out. "I don't enjoy balls that much when Yuki's not here."

Aly grinned and put her arm through his, "Oh, Nealie, don't worry, I'll dance with you!" Everyone laughed, making Neal blush.

Kel grinned at Aly, "Congratulations, Aly. Dom tells me you saved his men from some hillmen. Twice."

Aly waved her hand, "Oh, it was nothing. I saw they needed some help so I, of course did, my best. Cut them all down, that sort of thing."

Alanna rolled her eyes, "Not very modest, are we, daughter?"

Alan laughed and turned to Kel, "Lady Knight, she didn't kill them all. Sergeant Domitan and I helped too."

Neal frowned, "Even my own squire?"

Dom turned to George, "Did you teach her how to throw like that?"

George shrugged, "I taught her a little, but she can throw them better than I ever could. But she learned how to fight from me," he grinned, ruffling her hair, "but I can still best her."

Aly was about to reply when Thom strolled over, "Oh, Pops, you two haven't fought in a while," he grinned, "I bet she'd win!"

Aly gave her older brother a hug and whispered, "Any ladies you'd like to meet?"

Thom smiled mischievously, "Maybe later, maybe later."

Aly grabbed Neal's arm, "Come on, stop moping, we're dancing."

Neal groaned as everyone laughed. Aly put her hand on Neal's shoulder, "Oh, come on, Neal. You'll never have any fun if you don't try. Now, for instance, I don't enjoy balls that much, but I make the best of it -"

"By flirting with everyone?"

Aly grinned, "Precisely. Now, Neal, you shouldn't flirt with anyone, since you're engaged to be married - that's in what, a few months?" Neal nodded. "But, we could pick out some ladies for Thom or Alan or any of your knight friends to flirt with."

Neal grimaced, "No, not my knight friends, they are too old for you, stay away."

Aly laughed, "Fine, fine. But I've already met Sir Owen the Jolly -" that got Neal laughing.

"Brilliant! Now, fine, let's start with my squire first. What about her?" Neal nodded behind Aly's head and she looked with her Sight.

"Lady Cordelia? She flirts with married men. She has a terrible reputation too. And she's not exactly very nice."

Neal laughed, "Your Sight is incredible! What about her?" He spun her around.

"Lady Gwendolyn? Not bad. She's a Lady-in-Waiting and therefore a part of the Riders too. And she's nice." She thought for a second, "She'd be good for Thom though I think." Aly grinned, "And how abouther for Alan?" She nodded towards a pretty girl who was talking animatedly with a few other ladies. "Lady Penelope."

Neal nodded, "Perfect. Now what?"

"Now," Aly grinned, "go ask Alan to get a drink with you." Aly walked gracefully over to Penelope and the other ladies. Penelope was only 16 - had just left the convent and didn't really know Aly very well, but Aly knew she wanted to be a Lady-in-Waiting, she knew she could fight well. And she knew she was a sweet girl.

"Excuse me, ladies, Lady Penelope, I don't know if you remember me, but I'm -"

"Lady Alianne! Of course!" She beamed, her grey eyes bright under her heavy lashes, "I didn't think you'd remember me!"

Aly smiled, "Lady Penelope! I always remember those who are thinking about joining the Queen's Riders!" She winked subtly at Penelope, hoping she would take the hint, "Maybe I could help you -"

"Oh, that would be wonderful!" She excused herself from her friends and followed Aly whispering, "Thank you, thank you, they were so boring!"

Aly nodded, "Trust me, I understand completely. I'm so thankful I didn't have to go to the convent." Penelope grinned as Aly led her to the drinks table. "I think I can help you, put in a good word for you for the Riders…"

Penelope nodded enthusiastically, her chocolate brown hair swaying. "I'm decent with a knife or two and crossbow," she paused again. "And I'm well practiced with a Yamani fan."

Aly grinned, knowing she wasn't lying. "Penelope, I have a terrible feeling you and I will be great friends. Any Lady who wants to fight and hates silly convent talk is okay by me." Lady Penelope grinned. "But I'll make sure to put in a good word; I think they need more ladies anyway. And I think I can help you with your knives."

Penelope had to remember to close her mouth, "Oh, Lady Alianne that would be wonderful! All the ladies are always saying how quick you are -"

Aly grinned, "Among other things, I'm sure." It was no surprise that some of the ladies from more conservative families did not approve of Aly's reputation. Aly Saw Alan and Neal walking over, "Oh, Lady Penelope, you must meet my twin!" She pulled Alan next to her, "Squire Alan, this is Lady Penelope of Vikison Lake. Like me, she hates convent chat."

Alan grinned and turned briefly to his twin, knowing what she was doing, "Any Lady that our dear Aly approves of, although rare, is most special indeed. Wonderful to meet you, Lady Penelope." He bowed.

Penelope tried not to blush as she curtsied gracefully, "And you, Squire Alan." Aly, most pleased with herself since both were obviously attracted to one another. And who wouldn't? Alan was attractive, or so Princess Lianne had always said. And Lady Penelope was beautiful. She was wearing a pale yellow dress that was almost as simple as Aly's and she was taller than Aly too and so was only about a head shorter than Alan.

Aly than dragged Neal over, "And this is Squire Alan's knight-master, Neal of Queenscove."

Neal bowed to Penelope and said suavely, "Lady Alianne, would you care to dance?"

When the two were back on the dance floor Aly beamed, "Neal! That was wonderful! And look at them! They're getting along so well!"

Neal grinned like a small child, "That was fun! Now what about Thom?"

Aly smirked, "Ah, Thom will be much easier. He'll see us talking to Lady Gwendolyn and he'll come over himself. Come on," she tugged on his sleeve, "let's go talk to Lianne and Gwen."

Aly and Neal walked over to where Princesses Shinko and Lianne were talking to Lady Gwen and a few other ladies. Introductions and greetings were barely completed when Thom walked over, smiling and putting his arm around his sister. "How are you enjoying your birthday, sister? Oh, hello, Ladies," he said and bowed and Aly resisted the urge to roll her eyes. If Thom weren't a mage, he'd be a Player. Lianne introduced everyone to her "cousin" and when she introduced Gwendolyn, the Lady smiled.

"Yes, Master Thom, we've met."

"Yes, of course, Lady Gwendolyn, but please, I'm not a Master yet."

Lady Gwendolyn smiled, "It's just Gwen, I insist."

Thom grinned, "Well, Gwen, would you care to dance? I don't know about you, but I do love a good Viennese Waltz."

Gwen smiled and extended her hand to Thom, "I'd love to."

Aly and Neal watched the two go and Neal pouted, "That was it? We didn't get to do anything!"

Aly laughed and brought Neal back to the drink table, "I know, I know, but I told you, Thom knew what I was going to - plus, I think he already had his eyes on Gwen."

Neal continued to pout, "Well, now what?"

Aly shrugged, "Well, since it's my birthday I thought I'd -"

"Neal? Alianne? Jolly good to see you!"

Neal spun around, "Owen? Owen of Jesslaw? I thought you were on the border!"

Owen laughed and shook Neal's hand enthusiastically, "I just got back! Alianne! Happy birthday!"

Aly smiled, "Thanks, Sir Owen, I'm glad you could make it!" She spied the couple of men walking over from behind Owen.

Neal nodded toward them and Owen laughed, "Oh, of course! Sir Nealan, Lady Alianne, may I introduce Sirs Edmund and Christopher."

Aly curtsied, twirling on her charm, "It's a pleasure to meet you both. Thank you, so much for joining me on my 17th birthday."

The two men smiled, expressing their own thanks as Aly quickly looked them over. Edmund was shorter and had short blonde hair and brown eyes while Christopher was taller, probably as tall as Neal and had light brown hair and honey colored eyes. Before either could talk more to Aly, however, Lady Knight Keladry and a few other knights walked over and Aly soon found herself at the center of attention, something she did not mind.

James was standing with a few men from the Own as he watched Aly flirt with the knights that were hanging around her. Maybe this was how she really was in her natural element. He sighed. Shouldn't this have been perfect for forgetting about her? He watched as Aly laughed at something a tall, dirty blonde knight said. He watched as she talked with each knight individually. He watched but didn't feel anything.

Dom came up behind James, "Mithros, Uncle Dom."

"She is beautiful."

"Who?"

Dom rolled his eyes, "And she's not like all the other Court Ladies."

James shrugged, "She fights well," he said in an even, monotone voice.

Dom continued to watch his nephew's face as he watched Aly. "Neal says she just likes to have fun, put on a show. She's just enjoying herself."

"She should, it's her birthday."

Dom didn't understand what James was trying to prove. "You've seen her, she'd make a wonderful Player."

James turned to the older man, "Uncle Dom? Why are you telling me this? Aly and I are just acquaintances. Her private life is no business of mine." Dom nodded and James went to go talk to some of the men from the Own.

Aly was flirting with the knights when Edmund asked her to dance. She accepted gladly and the two continued to flirt as they danced.

After the dance ended, Christopher cut in and then after every dance, another knight cut in.

Alanna pointed this out to George as she reluctantly danced. "Aye, she loves the theatrics."

Alanna rolled her eyes, "And the other court ladies must love that she's getting all this attention."

After a second dance with Edmund, Dom cut in. "Ah, Sergeant Domitan, to what do I owe the pleasure? Will Lady Knight mind?"

Dom smiled, bowed and took Aly's hand, "No, she's comforting Meathead. But my, Lady Alianne, aren't you the popular one?"

Aly smiled, "Oh, they're just being nice since it's my birthday…"

Dom chuckled and nodded, "Of course, Lady Alianne, of course. How's it feel to be the youngest and only female Ambassador?"

Aly grinned, "It feels wonderful! I hope I'll be able to convince Raoul to allow your squad to accompany me on any of my travels."

Dom laughed, "I think I'll have to convince our Lordship! You'd be protecting me! But aren't you going to be a healer for the Own too?"

Aly nodded, "When I'm not an Ambassador or Lady-in-Waiting, of course!" She could see one of the knights walking towards them and whispered urgently to Dom, "Tell him you'd like to keep dancing."

The short man with small, beady eyes and mousy brown hair tapped Dom on the shoulder, "Do you think –"

"Sorry, our dance isn't over yet and I've got her for the next one too."

Aly thanked Dom and answered his unspoken question, "I've been getting terrible auras from him all night. I've got bad feelings about him."

Aly was too busy chatting with Dom that she didn't notice James approaching. He nodded to Dom, "Sergeant, the men and I are going to go back to the barracks, but the men wanted me to wish Aly a happy birthday." He turned to Aly, smiling, but his eyes still looked hard. "Happy birthday, Aly, we had a wonderful time."

Aly smiled, "Oh, James, thanks for coming. And thank the others too."

James nodded and was about to walk away when Dom stopped him. "Oh, James, do you mind walking Aly back to her room? I'm going to walk Kel back and that knight over there has been startling Aly all night."

James nodded and looked at Aly, "If that's okay with Aly, of course."

Aly smiled, "Thanks, for dancing with me Sergeant Domitan," she curtsied and Dom bowed, laughing as he went to find Kel. "Sorry, James, we can leave right now. You should be getting back…"

James shrugged, "We can stay."

Aly smiled, "No, no, you're doing me a favor, and look all my family has already left anyway." She took James' arm and whispered, "Okay, now the knight on the left is the one who has been frightening me. If he asks, tell him you insist on escorting me. Wink or something."

James tried to bite back a laugh. He was flabbergasted, "What?"

"He has to believe it!"

"Oh, Lady Alianne! Do you think I could have the pleasure –"

"Sorry, Sir, but I promised her father and brothers that I would escort her to her rooms tonight. Maybe another time?"

The Knight nodded as James and Aly walked away. Aly made sure to watch to See if he would follow them.

James was silent for a few minutes. "Thanks James, back there, I mean, and for walking me – I'm sorry, I –"

James cut her off, finally smiling a real smile. "No, Aly, please, it's my pleasure," he paused, "I would have come seen you earlier, but you were, uh, preoccupied."

Aly rolled her eyes and laughed, trying not to think about the jealousy and disappointment that was evident in his voice. "Please, I hate these banquets and balls. I have to do something to keep myself entertained. And half of those men just want an in with my parents or aunts or uncles."

James laughed, "I doubt that."

They were quickly approaching Aly's room when James stopped and faced her. "Aly, look, I well, actually, I don't really know what I'm trying to say, I'm not used to this kind of thing, but, I think you're a really wonderful girl – person," he corrected quickly, "and I really like being your friend, but I really need to focus on my career, on the Own, and –"

Aly tried to smile as she looked into his deep green eyes. "James, I understand completely. And you've been a great friend. So, let's just keep being friends, there's no reason to complicate or ruin this," she paused, "look, my door's not far, so let's just forget this awkward conversation ever happened, okay? Goodnight." She walked away before he could respond and she watched as he too eventually walked away.

080808080808

The next few days Aly spent with Uncle Gary, her father and grandfather as they continued to train her to be the perfect Ambassador and Spy. At the end of the week, Jonathan summoned her to one of his smaller rooms. She curtsied deeply when she entered and grinned when she saw that Prince Roald was also present. "To what do I owe such pleasure?"

Roald tried not to laugh, "I'm just here to learn."

Aly smiled, "Surely not how to control me? I'm much too easy to order about."

"Ah, that's because you're more sensible than your dear mother." Jonathan smiled as Aly curtsied her thanks. "No, Prince Roald is learning all the finer things today. Now, Lady Alianne, we are going to send you on your first Ambassador trip."

Aly grinned, "Oh, that's wonderful! Where?"

Roald laughed, "It's just a preliminary trip, so we're sending you to Galla. We are currently have a good relation with them, but we just want to make sure."

Aly was still smiling, "Oh, this is wonderful! Who will be accompanying me?"

Jonathan smiled, "Raoul told me about your idea for Sergeant Domitan and I think this is a perfect opportunity. A trial run of sorts since you don't need a whole company. It's not a procession, but you need more than a squad. So Sergeant Domitan will command and you'll meet up with a few knights who are along that border."

Aly was beaming, "Is it too informal to hug my uncle and cousin, even if it's the King and Prince?"

Roald laughed, "Yes, but you're never one for formalities, are you, Alianne?"

Aly scowled and hugged them both before composing herself and Jonathan dismissed her, still laughing. Roald turned to father, "If she acts like this when I'm King I won't have to do much at all."

Jonathan laughed, putting a hand on his shoulder, "Your friends are much more subdued than mine were," he paused, "but don't worry, you'll still have plenty to do."

Aly got a letter that afternoon from Thom, who was back at University and would be unable to visit for a while, thanking her for getting him a re-introduction with Lady Gwendolyn. Aly smiled to herself; it had been much too easy.

She was walking back to her room from dinner with her grandfather when she ran into Lady Penelope. They both curtsied and Lady Penelope blushed. "Oh, Lady Alianne, thank you for introducing me to your brother, Squire Alan."

Aly smiled, trying not to smirk, "Please, Lady Penelope, it's Aly and it was really no trouble at all. I take it you two got along?"

Lady Penelope smiled, her cheeks turning red, "Yes, thanks again, Aly," and the two girls continued on their separate ways.

080808080808

Preparations for Aly's first delegation to Galla were no different than her regular lessons, except for the extra "special" dresses she'd have to design, fit and purchase. She wanted to get a few breeches and tunics, but the King told her that, no, Galla would be disturbed enough to see a woman delegate and the least she could would be to wear a dress at all times.

So Lalasa fitted her with formal dresses in the Tortall colors, the Pirate's Swoop colors and even a few colors that Aly was able to pick.

Aly barely had enough time to see how Dom was doing with getting a promotion since she used her very little spare time to talk with Roald and spend time with her family and Neal.

It was the day before she was to leave when Neal, without Alan, came to see Aly. He was leaning against the doorframe when Aly finally turned around from packing to acknowledge his presence. "Oh, sorry, didn't See you there."

"Funny," Neal drawled, "and I came here to discuss serious matters with you…" he turned to leave but Aly laughed.

"Oh, Nealie, come on, what is it?"

Neal hesitated, "No one's actually said that it was your doing, but I want to thank you for getting Dom this partial promotion. He really truly deserves it, but there really isn't a good position until maybe he's a little older for Captain, but that even goes to a Knight sometimes. And I know he doesn't know it was you, but he probably has a good idea, but – thank you. It's really rough that his older brothers are desk knights or just running a fief."

Aly shrugged, "I didn't do anything. I'm just glad to see someone get promoted who really deserves it."

Neal shook his head, chuckling softly, knowing that Aly would admit nothing. "Well, Dom, Kel and I thank you, for all you've done. And enjoy your first delegation. And be safe."

080808080808

Aly was surprised, to say the least, that Princes Roald and Liam, accompanied by Lord Raoul and her parents were there to see her and Dom's men off. Aly hadn't seen Liam in a few years: he had been the squire of Gareth the Older but had been sent to accompany Glasidan of Haryse, the Captain of the First Squad of the Own, which was almost always riding around the country. It was the safest way for Prince Liam to fight and travel and it was also the last resort, the last way Jonathan and Thayet thought they could get their "troublesome" son to change. Whenever he was back at Court, Aly was always gone. So it was a pleasant surprise when Liam jumped down to hug his cousin.

"Liam?!" She shouted as she jumped off her horse to hug him. "How many years has it been?"

"Alianne," he said playfully, "You're looking as fine as ever!" He frowned playfully, "And you're leaving before my Ordeal!"

Aly frowned too and hugged Liam's middle, "Oh, Liam! I'm sorry! It's your father! He's sending me away!"

Liam smiled and held Aly's shoulders away so he could look her in the eyes. She had never before really noticed how odd his eyes were. All the princes and princesses had either the sapphire blue or hazel eyes of their parents, but Liam's were a mixture of both – there was an inner ring of hazel and than a pale blue that looked like a mixture of the two. He smiled and Aly's heart beat a little faster, although she wasn't sure why. "Ah yes, Little Alianne has become respectable, trading in the theater for the international stage."

Aly smiled wryly, "And what about our Prince Liam? Becoming a Knight?"

Liam grimaced but didn't get to retort because Roald interrupted their reunion, "Come on, Liam, Aly and the men need to start their journey. You'll still be here when she gets back."

Liam made a face and Aly tried not to laugh. "As much as I want to see you, catch up, reminisce, pull some pranks, I hate that I'll still be here for longer than a month."

Aly laughed as she easily and gracefully hopped on to her new Delegation horse, Hermia and winked to Liam, "I'm sure we'll have fun." She clicked to Hermia and rode up to the front of the men with Dom.

080808080808

It didn't take long for Aly to learn the names of all the men: she already knew Dom, Marc, Dennyson and James fairly well and had met Nestor, Wolset, Fulcher and Gildes on the way to the desert. But there were still a number of men she had to meet and made sure to have individual conversations with each of them to get to know them better.

Qasim and Aly talked at length about the Bazhir; Hans was from Pirate's Swoop and had been discovered and encouraged to join by George; Mayhew had a younger sister who was a mage; and Islington loved knives almost as much as George. It wasn't until towards the end of the first day that Aly was able to talk with Dom and James.

They were riding together at the front of the group when Aly rode up pretending to wipe her forehead, "Well, I know everyone's name and I think I promised to fight Islington and teach Mayhew, Hans, Wolset, and Gildes but I can't remember precisely."

Dom grinned, "Well, sign me up too!"

And James laughed, his green eyes twinkling at Aly, "So it's only now that you have time for Sergeant Dom and I, eh?"

Aly smiled wryly, "What can I say? I'm a popular gal," she laughed as Dom rolled his eyes, "so when do the infamous Own stories get told?"

Dom laughed and Wolset rode forward, "Our little delegate wants a story, huh?"

Hans yelled from the middle of group, "I doubt a scary one will frighten her much."

"Maybe a gruesome, gory story?"

"Nah, she tore up those hillmen, remember?" All the men were shouting until Dom held up his hand and told them all to keep quiet until they stopped riding.

They put up camp a little while later and Aly begged to hear about all the pranks the men had pulled. The men who were new to Dom's squad had played pranks on their own sergeant as well as on Raoul. Dom, however, had been the mastermind behind most of his squad's pranks.

Aly was able to fall asleep quickly that night, exhausted from all of the excitement that day. She was thrilled to be bonding with the men of the Own and only hoped that they would be riding with her in the future.

They met up with Sir Merric and Sir Douglas two days later: they were going to ride with them until the border. The two knights assured them that there was no danger, that this was strictly protocol. Merric and Dom than greeted each other like old chums and James brought his horse, Mammoth, closer to Aly to lean over and whisper, "He was a good friend of Kel's - stationed at her camp. He was in charge of the convict patrol groups and Kel, when she takes Raoul's post, will probably put him in charge of one of the company's. And Merric was the one who finally got Dom and Kel together."

"No," her eyes grew wide as she was unfamiliar with the story, "really? What did Sir Merric do?"

James leaned back, his deep green eyes twinkling, "Neal never told you?"

She shook her head, "I'm appalled that he never did!"

"They were at New Hope, I think that was the name of their camp, and apparently everyone but Kel, Dom and obviously Neal, noticed the obvious attraction, the tension, and apparently it was painfully obvious that they cared deeply for each other, but neither noticed nor would admit it." Aly had become absorbed into the story not only because she had never heard it but because of how mesmerizing James' voice became as he continued to tell her the story.

"So Sir Merric and everyone else were so fed up that they decided they needed to do something in order to stay sane. Sir Merric finally locked them in a storeroom: told Kel someone was trapped in a chest and told Dom Kel needed to see him."

Aly covered a laugh with her hand, her eyes wide as James grinned wider. "He didn't!" James nodded. "And it worked?"

James laughed, "It did. After a bell or so of them yelling at each other, at each other's throats because there had been so much tension, but they finally worked it out." He cocked an eyebrow playfully and Aly burst out laughing.

"No wonder he's so friendly with Merric." Aly and James were both laughing so hard that they didn't notice Marc and Fulcher roll their eyes.

080808080808

When Aly was first formally presented at the Gallan court, she was wearing the sapphire blue and silver of Tortall, in one of the many dresses Lalasa had made her. Dom had escorted her, wearing his very best King's Own uniform, but did not stay with her as she was introduced.

Her formal talks began that night at dinner where she sat with the King, Queen, prince and a few of their own delegates. She found nothing odd or unnerving with her Sight and the court, while a bit conservative, was pleasant enough, and Aly knew that this trip would be simple enough.

Aly escorted herself back, to her room, which was next to a few of the men. She was opening her door when James was coming out of his room next door. She turned and smiled at him, "You're up late." She managed to keep her eyes on his face, but her Sight was able to see how casual he looked, his tunic untied a little more than usual on the top.

James smiled shyly and leaned against the wall in between their rooms, crossing his arms across his chest. "Wanted to make sure you got back all right."

Aly cocked an eyebrow, "What, did you think I couldn't take care of myself?"

James grinned, "No, no. But I didn't think it would be wise for you to kill a Gallan on your first official night as an Ambassador."

Aly smiled and stared at him for a moment, "You've been acting different, you know? Just on this trip. You're a lot, less, serious."

James nodded, "How can you not be more lively with this group? And I realized that I don't need to focus or concentrate so much to get a promotion."

Aly smiled, "I'm glad. I like the good-humored, less serious James more."

James smiled back as he turned back to his door, "And I like happy Aly more."

Aly tried not to blush and whispered, "James?"

He turned around around and tried again not to let his eyes glance down her dress. The dress looked so beautiful on her. It was conservative enough for Galla, but it was still flattering on her. "Yes?"

Aly hesitated and looked at her feet quickly before looking back up to meet his eyes, "You know how you said you knew how it felt to be betrayed?" James nodded, no emotion showing on his face. "Did you ever get over it?"

James didn't speak for a moment. "Honestly? No. But I try not to think about it."

Aly could see how it still troubled him and felt terrible for bringing it up. "Oh, James, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring it up," she paused, "do you want to talk about it?"

James looked Aly in the eyes, his green eyes shadowed slightly from the light and he said softly, "Not now, Aly, you have a meeting in the morning," he reached out to touch her hair but stopped himself. "Goodnight, Aly," he whispered and turned to entire his room.

080808080808

Aly woke up the next morning surprised to find a warm bath already drawn up by one of the Gallan Palace servants. She bathed and dressed quickly for her meeting with the delegates that morning. She ran into Mayhew, Hans and Marc on her way to the hall where she'd be breakfasting with the delegates. "Ah, Lady Alianne!" Mayhew purred as he bowed dramatically, grinning, "don't we look lovely this morning?"

Hans winked at Aly, "Who doesn't look good in the colors of Pirate's Swoop?"

Aly smiled ruefully, "Boys, you're going make me late!" She waved and walked away quickly and elegantly down the hall.

Her meeting went exceptionally well: the Gallan delegates liked her well enough and found that though she was young and female, she knew what she was doing. They were impressed with her and assured her that they would continue the peace and good relations with Tortall.

That afternoon she was to get a tour of the Palace and grounds by the young Prince Isaac. He was the "young" prince but was still a good 9 years older than Aly. Aly kept telling Isaac how beautiful the Palace and gardens were as he brought her around. He was nice enough, rather shy and not as graceful as her Tortallan princes, but one could still tell that he was royal.

Aly noticed that at one point he kept looking at her and she suddenly became very nervous. What if he got embarrassed or angry if she refused him? She didn't know what he was capable of; he could ruin everything that she had just accomplished.

Thankfully he didn't say anything, probably too shy. Dinner that night was early and Aly had enough time to spend a few hours with the men before going to bed.

She was telling the story about how she and Alan had written a letter to a young Thom pretending to be the Princess Kalasin. Aly laughed, tears coming to her eyes as she recalled how awkward young Thom was the next time he had seen the older Princess.

All the men were laughing when Aly noticed James, who was obviously too preoccupied to laugh at a story about Neal and the Lioness earlier, left the room abruptly. Aly waited for a few minutes before excusing herself, saying she was much too exhausted to continue laughing so hard.

She walked out of the door and seeing that James wasn't out there, used her Sight to look through his door, but he wasn't there. Worried and confused, she walked to the closest door that led to outside and Saw James walking around one of the smaller gardens.

Ignoring the brisk wind, Aly walked over to James, "James, are you all right?" He didn't respond, didn't even turn around. She put a hand on his arm, "Are you all right?"

James nodded, still not looking at her. "Just needed some fresh air," his voice was even.

"James, I know you're lying."

"I just needed some fresh air."

Aly sighed and maneuvered herself to stand in front of him. "If there's one thing I can do, it's tell when people are lying."

He looked up and met her eyes briefly, "Fine. I lied. I just needed to get away from the men."

"Still lying. Now really, what's wrong?"

James sighed and ran a hand through his dark hair, "You don't give up, do you?" Aly shook her head and sighing again he said, "You know how I said I know how it feels to be betrayed?"

Aly mentally winced, "James, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry –"

James shook his head, "No, even if you hadn't brought it up I still would have been upset. It's my brother's birthday and his Ordeal is tomorrow night."

Aly was confused and as another gust of wind swept over them, Aly shivered. James laughed, "You didn't bring a cloak? Or a burnoose?" Aly shook her head and before she could protest, James opened his cloak and pulled Aly under it, wrapping an arm around her. He smiled, "You didn't think I was going togive it to you, did you? It's cold."

Aly laughed, "If you don't want to go in, maybe we should hide from the wind?" She paused and craned her neck to look him in the eye, "Is your brother older than you?"

James sighed and let out a small laugh, "Is it impossible to divert your attention?"

Aly smiled, thankful he couldn't tell when she was lying. She was terribly aware of his warm arm that was around her back, his hand resting comfortably against her waist. "Nearly impossible, yes."

James looked straight ahead as he began what Aly knew was a tough story for him. "I was born in Brightleigh, the eldest son – I had a sister who was 3 years older than me and a brother who is a year younger. My brother and I never really got along – he was insanely jealous that I was going to be a page and he wasn't. So when I was 11, a few months before I was to leave for Court, my brother, Jarrell, slaughtered 3 of our best horses, let our goats escape to never be found and beat up my sister, Jennifer."

Aly's mouth dropped in horror, "And everyone believed him?"

"I had gone out hunting and Jennifer was more afraid of Jarrell than me. My father was so infuriated that he kicked me out," his voice was hard as he looked out over her head, staring at nothing. Aly didn't need her Sight to see this was hurting him to talk about.

She slightly into James' body, wanting to keep him warm and comfort him "At age 11?"

"My father had always liked Jarrell better because he was tougher, fiercer, merciless. And my mother was weak and couldn't stand up to my father. Thankfully, my Aunt Shelia, my father and Dom's father's sister, found out that I was on my own and sent for me to live with them in their small fief of Irismere. They officially adopted me and my Aunt Shelia and all my other aunts and uncles stopped talking to my birth family."

Aly interrupted again, unable to completely understand how people could do this to their own flesh and blood, "Didn't your sister feel bad? Did she never tell your father the truth?"

James moved his head to look at Aly, his green eyes both fierce and sad, a slight sad smile on his lips, "You don't understand how woman can be weak, Aly, Mithros bless you. She killed herself 2 years later."

Aly's mouth dropped open in horror and disgust; she couldn't understand how woman could be so weak. Even the Court Ladies, while not always intelligent or not wanting to fight, were still tough enough to stand up for themselves occasionally.

James stopped her before she could speak, "Not all women can be as strong you, Aly. Mithros, not all women can be a quarter as strong as you. There are women, like my mother and my sister, who are too weak that they lose the will to live. My mother simply wasted away a few years after Jennifer took her own life. She stopped eating, stopped caring about anyone or anything. My sister took the easy way out, Aly. She was weak and selfish and couldn't liver with her betrayal but couldn't face my father," his voice was stronger now, angrier. "It makes me more infuriated than sad these days. I know now that there was nothing I could do for them. I couldn't make them stand up for themselves. My father took the fight out of them, the will to live." He turned away again for a moment, Aly moving to take his hand in hers. His hand was large and warm but it felt nice in hers.

He looked back into her eyes, squeezing his hand slightly, "My Aunt Shelia had married a knight that only had a small fiefdom and they could barely afford to send their son, Hamilton, to Court and daughter, Constance, to the convent. They never asked me to, but since I knew I was only an added expense, I helped out as much as I could: I farmed, tended the livestock, and practiced my fighting skills whenever I got the chance. My other aunts and uncles chipped in what they could, but they all had large families of their own, and never enough money. I stayed with them for a few years, until Dom asked his favorite brother, Dustin, who wasn't very well off either, to take me in and help me prepare to join the Own. Uncle Dustin and Aunt Jacelyn had two sons, but one died in Scanra and Tremaine was only a squire at the time. I was with Uncle Dustin for a year - Uncle Dom helped pay to outfit me because I kept growing and had outgrown all of Uncle Dustin's clothes," he chuckled, "Uncle Dom orchestrated it all. Right before I turned 18 he came to the house and brought me to Corus."

Aly attempted a smile to match his own, "Mithros bless your extended family."

"They're my only family, Aly," he smiled at her.

"And Jarrell?" she probed.

"All I know is that he goes for his Knighthood tomorrow. And Hamilton is off on the Scanran border, Constance at Court."

"Your Uncle Dom deserves to be more than just a squadron leader, James, and I'm trying to -"

James's smile was no longer sad, "I know, Aly. But him helping me doesn't mean he deserves a promotion."

"No, he's a great leader and a great man. This only adds evidence," she looked at him seriously, "When I get back, I'm going to keep pressing this promotion. I want him to be able to marry Kel if he wants."

"You're an extraordinary woman, Alianne."

She wanted to roll her eyes at him, but she couldn't. He looked so incredibly sincere. "James," she said softly and seriously, "I know you don't want - and don't need - me to say that you're a better man because of this unbelievable, horrible betrayal, and I won't. You would have made a great knight, and it's beyond unfair that you won't get that chance, but you can do just as much good in the Own as you would have as a knight, probably more. You don't need to be a knight to be successful - just look at your Uncle Dom or my father. You are a strong and smart young man, you're an excellent fighter, quick on your feet, and you're a good person. This betrayal didn't make you who you are today, it didn't make you want to be stronger, James, you wanted to be the best person you could be your whole life."

"How can you -" he interrupted her.

She smiled and put her hand on his ever-so-slightly stubbly cheek; she didn't need to use her Sight to See that he was a good person. "Because if you had let this betrayal shape who you are, you would be out seeking revenge. You would never stop. You'd be an angry, intolerable person, James. And you aren't. You're good. You have a good, large family behind you, and friends. Lots of friends." She removed her hand from his cheek, suddenly very nervous. "I know you don't want my sympathy or pity, and I won't give it to you. I am sorry you lived with such horrible people for 11 years." She took a deep breath, "And I'm sorry those woman," she couldn't bare to call them his mother and sister, "were so weak, I just can't understand how anyone -"

James let out a slight chuckle and letting go of her hand, took her chin in his hand, a slight smile on his lips, "That's one of the reasons I like you so much, Aly, you don't understand how some people can be that weak," his other hand tucked her windblown hair behind her ear. "Thank you, Aly. Everyone was always saying how I'm better because of it - those who know only part of the story, or those who don't understand." His deep, beautiful green eyes bore into her hazel-green ones, "I haven't ever told anyone," he confessed, "all my uncles and aunts and cousins already knew. It's not really spoken of anymore - I know Lady Knight Kel knows, but she, thankfully, hasn't said anything. Neal tried to treat me differently, be nicer to me, until I told him to stop," his thumb was dangerously close to her lip and Aly's breath hitched, "but you," his eyes darted to her lips quickly, "you, Aly, are unlike anyone I've ever met. Thank you, Aly. That's what I needed to hear."

Her heart was beating fast. She hadn't kissed anyone since Zeke. A million thoughts were running through her head. Should she use her Sight? Could she trust James? She wanted to, but the last time...

She could feel his breath on her face and suddenly it was as if the world was slowing down. The thoughts in her head seemingly evaporated and then there was only James in front of her.

And then his soft lips were on hers in the most tender and wonderful kiss she had ever experienced in her short life. She couldn't compare it to kisses with Zeke because there was no Zeke, he didn't exist in this world. There was only James and his wonderful, wonderful kisses.

James leaned back slightly, opening his eyes, and taking in Aly's appearance: her soft, pillowy lips, her heavy-lidded, beautiful eyes where the hazel and green seemed to swirl around each other were staring back at him, drinking in his appearance. And he did the only thing he could think to do: kiss her again.

His fingers weaved through her hair to cup the back of her head, his other arm pulling her tightly against him, both of her hands on his face, never wanting to let go.

They pulled back after what seemed like an eternity, breathing heavily. James pulled his cloak over Aly's shoulder as she shivered slightly, "You should have brought a cloak," he whispered.

"I was worried about you," she whispered back, smiling. He leaned in to kiss her again. "Are you taking advantage of me because I didn't bring a cloak?" She smiled lazily.

James chuckled, tucking her hair behind her ear. "I'm using your concern to my advantage, yes." His thumb caressed her cheek slowly, "I've been wanting to do this for a while. Trying to forget you and focus on the Own when you were always around was too difficult."

His intense stare, the kisses they had just shared and the cold made her shiver again, "I'm glad you did, James."

James tightened the cloak around her. "Now are you going to tell me what happened with Zeke?"

Aly frowned, "It's nothing compared to," she sighed, "at the time it was tough –"

James interrupted her, lifting her chin with his finger to force her to look at him, "Did you love him?"

Aly shook her head, "No," she said adamantly. "No, but I always trusted people, saw the best in them, and then Zeke shattered all that."

James nodded.

"Alan and Neal had left, you had left without saying good-bye and that made me feel, I wouldn't say angry but maybe disappointed, and Zeke was kind to me when I was bored."

"I knew I couldn't have feelings for you, Aly, but I did. I hoped leaving you would help diminish those feelings so I could focus on the Own." He kissed her quickly, "But clearly I couldn't." He looked at her again, and she could tell, even without Seeing, that he wanted to know how she discovered he was spy, but he didn't.

Aly smiled and whispered, "Now what?"

James grinned, "We go inside. We try to act normal, we don't want the Gallans, nor the men, to see a Tortallan noble rendezvousing with a mere common swordsman."

Aly laughed and kissed him again as they stood to walk inside. "So this is our little secret?"

James nodded, "I think it'll have to be, Aly."

Aly nodded, understand the risk he was taking, and knowing full well that this might not end well or happily.

James smiled and kissed her outside her door one last time. "Goodnight, Lady Alianne."

080808080808

The next day Aly had a brief meeting with the King and Queen and the other delegates, mainly to discuss current relations and the border, and than a final dinner that evening before the Tortallans headed out early the next morning.

Aly only saw James briefly but was surprised at how good he was at hiding their secret from everyone. She hadn't expected him to drop everything and kiss her when he saw her or glare daggers at other people she was talking to, of course, but she was surprised at how composed and normal he was acting, talking to her with the other men as if nothing had changed. She knew how good of a Player she would be - everyone always told her so - but she was slightly taken aback by how good James was as well.

He was waiting for her when she got back late from the dinner in another one of her simple dresses in the colors of Tortall, and smiled lazily when he saw her. "Wanted to make sure you got back to your rooms all right."

"How very chivalrous of you," she curtsied as he approached her.

"May I see you to your door, my Lady?" She smiled as he cocked a dark eyebrow before leaning down to kiss her. "Goodnight, my Lady."

"Goodnight, good sir," she returned the smile shyly and opened her door.

080808080808

As she lay in bed she wondered how difficult it would be for them to sneak around with one another back in Tortall. Would they be able to see each other? She knew she couldn't be in the barracks at night without drawing attention, but maybe James could sneak away? But would he want to? Once they returned to Tortall would he see the risk he was taking, would her position in court dissaude him? She closed her eyes, hoping sleep would come, even as her mind raced. She would just have to hope for the best, hope that he wouldn't change his mind when the returned.

080808080808

The journey back to Tortall was relatively uneventful: there were no bandits to contend with nor stray refugees. Aly couldn't talk to James more than she would have otherwise, so she made certain to once again, talk to all the men. She yearned for a kiss that first night, however, even though she knew it would be impossible: someone was bound to see.

James wasn't prohibited to have a lover or to court someone, but as a man of the King's Own, it was not encouraged, especially someone so young and inexperienced. That didn't stop men from visiting the city, however; Aly had seen her fair share of the Own's men at the Dancing Dove. A captain or a squadron leader as established as Dom was more likely to have a lover, however few ladies were satisfied with never being made a proper wife until the man finally retired. And few men make it to retirement: they either stay in the Own as long as they can physically fight, or die in the field.

Aly wasn't ready to think about marriage, but she knew of this - courtship? - was to continue, this would be one of the hurdles they'd have to get over. And not including the fact that she was a Lady, a noble, the goddaughter of the King and Queen and now an Ambassador. Aly didn't need her Sight to know that this would be James' biggest problem going forward. She had a sinking feeling that it wouldn't be long before James ended - whatever it was they had - for her honor's sake.

But as the daughter of the former Rogue King she wasn't sure how much honor she actually had.

Aly laughed loudly with the men and traded bawdy jokes and stories until they reached the open gates of the castle and Dom raised his hand. Aly trotted to the front of the men who were now completely silent, some with their mouths wide open: there, at the gates, were some of the most important people in the Kingdom. Aly gracefully dismounted Hermia, winked at the men behind her and curtsied so deeply that her father had to cough to hide his laugh. She gave him a sly look before turning her attention to the King.

"I wasn't expecting such a grand welcome, Your Highness."

"As this was your maiden trip we thought it only fair to make sure we didn't make a mistake in appointing you an Ambassador of Tortall."

Aly removed several scroll from Hermia's saddle bag, her eyes never leaving the King, "I think these will be proof enough, Your Highness."

Jonathan nodded, "Thank you, Lady Alianne." He turned his attention to the men, "Thank you for accompanying Ambassador Cooper to Galla, there will be a reception for you all this evening in the ballroom. You have your Kingdom's thanks," and with a nod he and Queen Thayet turned to go back to the castle. Alanna, nodding at her daughter, followed the King and Queen, leaving her husband to escort Aly back to the castle.

She turned her head briefly to nod at the men, her hazel eyes landing on James for a split second longer, before walking with her father who nodded to a stable boy to take Hermia to the stables.

"No trouble?"

She smirked and her father rolled his eyes at her blatant cockiness, "None. Our relations with Galla are just as sound, if not better due to my charm, as they were before. And, as you'll see in my notes, we have nothing to worry about from anyone. Although," she hesitated, "the young cousin of the prince," her eyes stayed forward but her Sight moved around her to make sure no one but her father could hear, "we'll have to watch him as he gets older. Even you could see the ambition in him, Pops."

George nodded, "All in your reports?"

"In code of course."

George let out a quiet chuckle, "You enjoyed yourself, I suppose," he glanced at her from the corner of his eye. He had noticed the way she had focused on that young man in the Own. He doubted anyone else noticed, but no one else was as good a Spy as he was. Except for maybe his daughter.

"Being an Ambassador does have it's perks, I suppose. But yes, I did have fun. As uneventful a trip, as," she paused, choosing her words carefully, "nice a place as Galla is, I had fun."

George laughed louder this time, "The Prince will have trouble with you, all right. You'll be as your mother is to the King."

Aly turned to her father, admonished, "Why, father! To say to your own flesh and blood!"

He wrapped his arm around her shoulder, "Come, child, we're to meet with your Grandfather before the King will inevitably wish to speak to you before your, what did he call it? Reception."

080808080808

James' jaw nearly dropped when he saw all the people waiting for them at the gates. They wouldn't do this for another other Ambassador, or anyone really, except for Lady Alianne. His stomach had turned in knots. The King was her godfather, the beautiful Queen her godmother. Her mother the King's Champion. She had been playmates and lifelong friends with all the Princes and Princesses. What was he, a lowly man of the King's Own, thinking by kissing her? Confiding her? He wasn't part of her world.

He didn't let his mind continue. He wouldn't let it even think that Aly was using him as a way to get to her family and friends by trying to, what, court? - someone in the King's Own. No, Aly wasn't like that.

But it still didn't make much sense, the two of them. He shouldn't have ever kissed her. He needed to end this before it continued.

But when she had turned and their eyes met for that second, it felt like an eternity. He didn't want to stay away: he needed to.

080808080808

A/N: I doubt I'll be writing this story again, but….please review anyway!