~*~ Here's another one of those convent-Alanna fics - I hope you find this one quite original and...well, just read it, ok? Only the plot of the story belongs to me...um...please review if you want more, as I'm not too sure about this fic. I've never done one like this before... ~*~
~ Giovanna xoxo
~ [email protected]


>J~

Prologue

It was raining. Lightning split the sky and the thunder's heavy vibrations slightly shook the carriage.
A face gloomy enough to match the weather peered out of the carriage's single window. Violet eyes fringed with long lashes were somewhat glazed - with inheld tears, or perhaps fear, or even excitement.
With a sigh, Alanna of Trebond pulled away from the window and examined her surroundings. The carriage was cozy and well padded' pillows and thick blankets were everywhere. Probably to stop the voyager from rattling to death! Alanna thought grimly.
Alanna had been in traveling for about a full day. She and her small escort had left the Mother of Mountains Convent that morning. Their destination: Corus, capital city of Tortall. Home King Roald and Queen Lianne, and their court. Home of the pages and squires and Prince Jonathan and...
Duke Roger of Conté, Alanna thought darkly. My betrothed. Who would think that I would be taken so quickly!? I just turned sixteen - I haven't even completed my years at the Convent!
Ever since her father, Lord Alan of Trebond, had discovered ancient and powerful spells, and ever since her twin, Thom of Trebond, had healed Prince Jonathan, Crown Prince of Tortall, of a terrible thing called the Sweating Sickness', Trebond had gained importance and admiration and respect. And word spread of the family's eligible daughter and son - marrying into Trebond would bring power beyond belief, surely!
Alanna closed her eyes tight, willing the tears she knew were brimming to go away. I can't cry, she told herself. I won't cry! I knew this would be my fate...it's every woman's fate...but why so soon? She was prevented from thinking other gloomy things when the carriage suddenly jolted to a stop.
Confused, Alanna slightly pushed open the door and called up to the driver,
What's going on?
M'lady, there's a road-block ahead. Your guards rode up to see if we can pass it and make it to an inn tonight, the rough, yet respectful, voice replied.
What if we can't? asked Alanna.
Then we'll have to find a small clearing and strike up a camp, m'lady, was the answer. Don't worry m'lady. Just sit back and relax. We'll make it to Corus soon enough.
But I don't want to go...
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