Sleeping Patterns... WHAT?

So. I've discovered that I HATE waking up in the morning. Heck, if I could I would stay in bed until 3 just looking at the ceiling or reading a book. Breakfast and my need to relieve myself are the only things that can get me out of bed on a normal day.

Yes... this is me.

BUT~!!!

I HAVE DISCOVERED GOING TO BED EARLY!!!! It's revolutionary and I suggest you try it for a week. Just give it a week, I'm telling you it changes your life!!!

I tried it one day. ONE day and I went to bed at 8:30 and my body (Being the annoying thing that it is) woke me up at 3:30 and said, "GET UP! GET UP!" So being unable to fall back asleep and realizing that I still hadn't completed my homework that was due that day, I got up and did homework.

It was actually productive. I'm telling you, I made some breakfast and listened to music and did all my reading for the day. Then at 5:30 I walked out the door and went to the Richard's Building singing my little heart out and probably annoying all of Provo.

Then I tried it the next day... and the next day AND THE NEXT DA

Y!!! I'm telling you. I've been prepared for all of my classes, on time, awake and participating and I actually get things done in the morning. I cleaned my kitchen and made some spaghetti because I have to work late today and I fell MARVELOUS.

Plus... I've been working out every morning for at least half an hour. I feel like this.

Well... maybe not that bad. But I hurt! My abs are killing me! It's hurts to laugh and my legs are SO gonna feel the work out I just did tomorrow.

I'm gonna do it guys, I'm gonna get back in shape. You know how I used to play basketball and volleyball in highschool and I could run up and down a court and never get tired? Yup. Wanna do it again. Gonna do it.

Things I Would Like to Fix (dicussion)

For those who have completed my story and wish to assist me with the feedback and rewriting project...

For everyone else, don't bother reading this. It's not for you.

So I've been going over my story, rereading bits, looking at my characters and my plot line. I see a lot of holes...

I'm going to give you a list of things that I would like to improve. If you have anything to add, please do so. If you want to give me ideas or just comments in general I need them.

Things I would like to Fix

• Lloyd of Gareth... Why is he even in the story?
• Jessaw and the blond boys. Very weak and not very pertinent to the story.
• Make it clear that the many people thought that the prince was going to be the child of prophecy because it says “clothed in royalty” but that doesn’t necessarily mean the two are related. The child could technically be anyone.
• Spy? rewrite story with a specific spy in mind. Perhaps create a new character.
• Fix that plot hole: the one that has to do with the switch up of babies. Go over every detail very very carefully. Make a timeline and make sure everything fits. Make sure the mother’s actions make sense, who is the grandmother? what happened? WHY IS THIS GOING ON? It feels wishy washy.
• Seer, integrate that into the story better. When does she have visions and why? What do the visions mean?
• Religion? Gods? who gives her visions? do you want to get into that?
• Change prophecy to include both of them?...
• Ergil, Kadric and helpers and their places in her system.
• What is her system? Map it out. How does she keep track of everything?
• Spy hunt: more specific, think of tricky ways to trap them
• Fall out with Glen... too much? Too quickly?
• First battle emphasise her difficulty with handling the situation, no one can take that very easily.
• Tactics and Strategy... Yeah... research that a bit.
• THEMES: what do you want to tell your readers? What do you want them to learn from Riva’s adventure?
• Bad guys and other characters, do they make sense? Do their actions fit their personalities?

I'm Done! (now I need some serious feedback)

So if you really want the rest of the story it's on the page. I'm not posting anymore.

SIIIIGGHHH.

I now I have to work on the second draft...

First things first. Feedback, Melanie I know you finished my book, I'd like some help. I already know most of the things I need to fix. BUT do you have anything to say about my characters specifically the antagonists. Do they make sense? What about my plot? Do Riva's actions make sense? ANYTHING is helpful at this point. I'm starting the rewriting process so I could use whatever you guys got.

Thanks guys.

Princess Rivalee (Sec 3 Part 6) I FINISHED!

Guys, I finished. Now I really want to post it all... should I? It's killing me.

Should I post it all... Should I give you the end? I dunno. It's so much so fast.

Sigh.

Here's the next bit.

If you want all of it I'll put it on the page.

Princess Rivalee Section 3 Part 6

With her room on a new floor, Riva felt that she wasn’t as limited as she had been before. She wandered the halls with abandon. Poking her nose here and there.If people were used to seeing her do so, perhaps they wouldn’t mind if she moved a little lower into the palace-

“Their army is moving steadily through Sealidan. Their goal is the palace here.”

Riva jolted to a stop and listened.

William’s voice muttered. “They don’t have a King or any kind of leader, will killed all of their officers. They can’t make it far. We’ve been harassing them every step of the way.”

“Even if they make it to the capital they’ll be surrounded and outmatched. We’ll crush them easily.”

“Good, thank you for the report. You may go back to your post.”

Riva frantically looked around, looking for a hiding spot. There were none to be had. Angrily she snapped at herself and stood up straight. Just like a Queen. She reminded herself. You belong here. With sure steps she strode forward to William’s quarters.

The messenger almost ran into her. He bobbed his head in apology. “S’cuse me, ma’am.” Then hurried off.

Riva watched him go and knocked on the door politely.

“Come in.”

A smiled spread across her lips more because it was what Riva the Bard would do than from actual pleasure at seeing him. At that moment, he was the enemy readying to crush her people in a mighty blow.

He looked up and a smile split his face instantly. “Riva! I see you found my study. How are you enjoying your new rooms?”

“Rooms? as in plural?” Riva asked incredulously.

He was pleased at her reaction, his grin only grew. “Yes, rooms. I’ll have one of the maids show you the others.”

She leaned against his desk curiously looking at what he was working on. “I came to thank you for your hospitality actually. Best night I’ve had in months.” She told him, a blissful expression on her face. It felt forced.

He burst into a laugh, taking her hand he kissed it tenderly. “I’m happy you are pleased. You know that you have but to ask and it is yours.”

Again a voice in her head whispered to ask, but she squashed it and just smiled. “You’ll spoil me if you continue this. Then all I’ll want is chocolates for breakfast and soft cushions for chairs. I’ll get fat and my poor Ettore won’t be able to carry me.”

Laughing long and hard William had to put down his quill. Riva felt a pang in her heart. He was beginning to love her. She could feel it in the way he spoke to her and touched her. He believed he loved her and she was going to have to tell him sooner or later how she truly felt and what she truly desired.

There was a knock on the door. “Enter.” William said breathlessly, still chuckling.

Riva recognized the drab cloth before William did. Quickly she turned her back to the messenger and hoped that he didn’t recognize her.

It was a messenger from the desert nomads.

She held her breath as adrenaline pumped through her veins. Her legs began to lose feeling and she clutched Williams desk to stay steady.

“Your Majesty, I have terrible news. Imad is dead and Racham has taken control of the tribes.” The messenger blurted out in a rush.

William froze. “Imad is dead!? I thought he was a shaman? How could he die on me?”

Riva could hear the messenger shake his head in helplessness. “I saw him die myself, your Majesty. He was destroyed by a witch of even greater power.”

Riva struggled to keep a loud cough from escaping her.

William rubbed his face in frustration. “The tribes were supposed to flank Alsteare when we made our move. Is there anything else?”

“No sire, I thought you should know about Imad as soon as possible. It took me a while to get away from Racham’s men.”

William swore quietly. “Thank you, you may leave. If you’re hungry you know where the kitchens are.”

The messenger left the room quickly and silently.

Riva let out a controlled breath very, very quietly. Remembering where she was she touched William’s shoulder in false sympathy. He took her hand and held it for comfort. She had to get Glen out soon, time was running out.

Princess Rivalee (Sec 3 Part 5)

Riding became routine for the two of them. Riva hadn’t had much of a chance to work on her horsemanship while in Alsteare and the King was an excellent rider. Before they began she warned him of her inadequacy and asked him to give her some tips only to find he was a superb teacher.

He treated her with the utmost respect and never spoke at her or down at her. If she stumbled or blundered he would laugh it off with her and correct her gently. It was so much like Glen that Riva found it hard not to like the King. No matter how many time she reminded herself that this man had declared war against her kingdom and that they were enemies, he was amiable and so desperate for her attention.

The only thing that worked was to remember that he had captured Glen. That always sobered her.

They would talk about innocent things. Riva suspected that he thought she was a spy. She had blatantly admitted that she had spent many years in Alsteare, it only made sense. She would describe Alsteare and the palace, the King, some of her experiences in the cities and out on the roads. His spies in Alsteare and without doubt already given his most of the details of her capital. She went on to described the library that she had spent most of her life in. They would discuss literary works, strategies and governments they had studied. Riva feigned ignorance with some of these, not wanting him to suspect her more.

She continued to sing and sing and sing. The more she saw of Court the more she despised it. It was more of a social event than one of discussion and coming together to right the kingdom. Everyone was dressed immaculately and the food was just as extravagant. It felt false. All of it felt false. Everyone dressed up and reported to the King. Riva’s sharp eyes picked up the fear and submission of the nobles. Riva knew that sometimes the use of fear and force was necessary for certain people, but all of them?

No it wasn’t fear, it was more like resignation. Woeful resignation. These people had no say, Sealidan would do what he saw fit. No one would change his mind. She had seen that side of him.

Whenever she was present at these events she took advantage of her closeness with the King and her new found fame. She talked with the nobles, learned their names, found out what was going on at the home front, who their families were, their interests, their beliefs and ideas. There was one thing she had learned: you could never have too much information. While Sealidan was similar in many ways to Alsteare the stark differences were in the details. The way a jury was run what a judge was allowed to pass by his own conviction. Little things that changed everything.

There were several members of the Court that Riva respected immediately, she could see their fierce loyalty to their lands and the people they governed. There were others who felt oily, their words slick with false promises. The women mostly seemed shallow and concerned with merely gossip, Riva still kept one eye on them. Gossip could be just as deadly as a knife.

“You know your promised me you would sing one of your favorite Alstearian songs, I have yet to hear it.” Sealidan observed one day while they headed back from a hard ride.

“I did, didn’t I? I’ll have to let Windleton know, he’ll want a full accompaniment with it. When would his Majesty like me to sing it?”

“William, my name is William, Riva. I’d like you to use it.”

Riva stopped dead in her tracks. “Your Majesty I really must protest.”

He whirled around to face her. “Why? Why must you protest? What is the harm of calling me by my name?”

She clenched her jaw. “Rumors are already spreading! And if I call you William in front of others, even the servants, it will only make them worse. You can’t be blind to this... You know why I can’t-”

“I don’t care.” He muttered stubbornly. “You are to call me William, at least when we are alone.”

Riva sighed. “You are only making more trouble for yourself.”

“I will make trouble for myself when I choose to. That is my decision.”

You aren’t the only one who gets into trouble. Riva thought, worry creeping into her mind.

*****

Later that night, after she had told Windleton about her special performance and she had gotten ready for bed, she headed for her quarters. Her things had been moved. Stopping a maid she asked, “Do you know where my clothes have gone?”

“Aye, Miss. They’ve been taken to a private room up on the next floor. I’ll show you if you like.” She curtsied once.

“Thank you, I would appreciate that very much.”

Her private room was huge, larger even than the one she had had at home. The bed was raised off the floor and full of feathers, pillows the softest she had seen. In a mad fit immaturity she flung herself on the bed and reveled in the softness, bouncing up and down. A hot bath was brought up and she was able to bathe in privacy. Ah, it had been so long. She stayed in the water until her fingers wrinkled and the water went lukewarm. She’d long ago sent the maids out, wanting only to be alone. It was the most glorious night she could remember.

Her thoughts drifted. The only thing her mind ever drifted to was Glen. She closed her eyes imagining his face and his infectious grin. It never failed to make her smile. She swallowed back tears, he was most likely hurting right now. Guilt made her face twist in anguish. While she was enjoying the spoils of fame and the attentions of a King he was in a dungeon.

After that Riva quickly readied for bed and curled up in a ball on the soft bed. Eyes painfully dry and wide open.

The next morning she was slow to wake, breakfast was brought to her. He’s spoiling me. She thought irritably. Trying to impress me with all the luxuries of a Queen. She snorted softly. As if I don’t already know them.

She attacked her food bitterly.

Just Some Food for Thought... Or Thinking...

Gyoza... BEST stuff ever.

Again. Be jealous of my awesomeness.

Sometimes I wish that I was the type of person who carried a camera around everywhere so I could share EVERYTHING with the world.

Sometimes good things happen and you just want to let everyone know how wonderful you feel.

YES? Raise your hand if you agree! Okay... that was just sad.

So one of my best friends from WAAAAAY back, like fifth grade, just got engaged and I am immensely happy right now. It also helps that I just ate a good pound worth of cookie dough, and the left over gyoza from me and Erin's excursion on Saturday. (They were all squashed together by the time I cooked them. But sooooo delicious.)

Also last night I finished one of my favorite books again. If you are reading this you are not allowed to judge me... cause I'm about to tell you. It's Faith of the Fallen by Terry Goodkind, by far the best one in the series. I will warn you... it's graphic and you may have to skip some scenes. But... it makes me happy.

First. (SPOILER) The antagonist is misunderstood and eventually turns to the good guy's side. This will forever be my absolute favorite way to "destroy" the antagonist. I'm terribly optimistic and almost naively idealistic when it comes to things like this. Plus she's just... interesting. A fun character and kind of melodramatic.

Second. It's one of the few books that the main character isn't just killing people left and right. (The series covers the course of roughly three separate wars). There's just a lot of fighting. Instead the main character is creating something beautiful. I'm not gonna lie, it's always been mydream to make something with my own hands and show it off to the world and say... "Look at this. I worked hard on this and when you look at it, I want you to stop and feel a sense of awe." Dunno... just always wanted to do something that made a change in people. I've always been interesting in working with my hands, I think those skills should be treasured and respected. People don't seem to appreciate them as much. The brain is overrated.

Third. The message the book tries to send you is one that I very much agree with and I feel that people around me sometimes struggle with. There are several themes and I won't bore you by going into them, so we'll just stop at... the book speaks to me.

Some other things that that struck me:

Dancing is fun. I think I look silly, but I don't really care.

My tummy is a black hole. Don't put food in front of me. It will disappear.

Men in a box, wrapped in naughty paper. Yup. Alex's Birthday, Happy 19th.

I can now tell time with the moon. HA!

Okay... I'm done.

Princess Rivalee (Sec 3 Part 4)

I'm SO CLOSE TO THE END! It's not even funny! I can see it all! AND I'M SO TIRED!!! I just wanna finish this and call it good. Then I can go back and fix it all. UGHHHH

Tell you. I can taste victory. AH! I'm so close! Here's the next bit. Although I want to just give it all to you. But we'll go with bits at a time.

Princess Rivalee

The hardest thing about living in a palace again was having no power. It was like Riva had gone backwards rather than forward. She had no control over what happened and she had no idea where to begin. Constantly she ran over the problem, how to get to the dungeons and how not to get caught. There were times she wanted to tear the place apart, literally.

In order to avoid horrible mishaps she immersed herself into her new role, which was surprisingly enthralling. It was easy to get caught up the music, it was her life. The composer seemed to expel new songs from his being, Riva was hard-pressed to stay a step ahead of him. Often she would catch herself dreaming about staying here and just being a singer. She would live in comfort without anyone knowing the wiser. Fantasies crept up on her too frequently for comfort. She was still the ruler of Alsteare, just because she’d left didn’t change that. Her only goal was to get Glen and get out.

Apparently everyone else had other plans. Within a week, she had sung five times and she was thoroughly exhausted.

She was also very famous.

The only word she could use to describe the coming days is this: chaos.

Although she was flattered, she had never considered herself a very good singer, Riva was overwhelmed by the sudden popularity. The King’s attention didn’t help. While he kept his attention polite and pleasant, he was persistent. Riva tried to keep herself distant, truly, but he was so different from anyone she had ever met. He was a puzzle. What did he believe in? Why was he fighting? What were his plans after he’d won? How did he manage to turn so many of her people?

She found herself drawn to the enemy and rationalizing it as reconnaissance.

“May I borrow Miss Riva, Windleton?” Came a familiar voice.

The entire room turned to see Sealidan leaning casually against the door a small smile playing on his lips.

Windleton, unable to tell his sovereign ‘no’ straight out, bowed and motioned for Riva to leave. For a few moments Riva considered the situation she was in, she should stay, but they had been at it for hours, her voice needed a rest. With as much grace as she could muster Riva left the room with the enemy of her country.

The enemy of her country, the reason her people were at war. No, that wasn’t fair. Alsteare and Sealidan had been at war for generations.

The King offered his arm and she took it. Together they traveled in silence, gliding down the corridor and the servants stopping and bowing to the King as he passed. The servants had done that for her father when he was alive.

The silence let Riva’s mind wander to her late father. He had died fighting this man.

“Copper for your thoughts?” The King murmured watching her face.

Riva flashed him a smile, not wanting to seem impolite. Sealidan had only been a gentleman in her presence. It made her wonder what kind of man he was. Was he like her father? Just trying to keep his country safe?

“Why are we fighting?” It had slipped out without her permission. “Why are we fighting Alsteare?”

His expression became serious and aged. Wearily he sighed deeply. “Because I wish it to end. From the first time I can recall, we were at war with Alsteare. As you know my father and had maintained an uncertain peace but that ended a few decades ago. Once the crown fell to me, I promised that I would end it. Permanently. Every action I have made as King has been towards that end. The sooner we win the sooner it’s over.”

“When you win,” Riva didn’t dare argue that point. “what do you plan on doing? You’ll be the King of two countries... how will you get them to submit?”

He grinned roguishly. “People aren’t so hard to understand. They just want to be happy. Food, shelter and safety, that’s all their looking for. If I can show the people of Alsteare that I can give them that, what’s to stop them from joining me?”

Riva was dying to ask him how he’d turned some of her best men traitor, but thankfully was able to keep her peace. Instead she asked something a little simpler, “What was your father like? I mean as a father?”

“He gave his life for his people. Would have done anything to give them happiness.” Sealidan shook his head. “He would’ve emptied the treasury for them if he could, the fool.” The way he said it, made the title loving rather than insulting. “You know his favorite thing to do was to take me to the poor houses. I learned a lot there, about people and human nature.”

Riva was astonished, she tried imagining her own father going to the poor and just talking with them, hearing their woes and troubles. Her thoughts were interrupted as Sealidan continued.

He waved to the city outside the big windows. “I turned Sealidan into a country that could hold it’s own. All the shops, farms, and tradesman are unified in one goal: victory. Took me years to get it to this point.”

“Is that why there is no music?” Riva asked, she thought she remembered the Composer, Windleton, say something along those lines.

The King nodded sadly, “The palace is the only place that can afford such luxuries.”

No wonder Riva became famous so quickly, she had no competitors. The people were starved for entertainment. They worked all day and had no way to relieve their stress, to forget about their meager lots in life.

“Does it make you sad? That there is no music?”

“Of course it does, my living is made off of creating music. How can it not sadden me?”

The King smiled in sympathy. “Where have you been? Surely you’ve seen some amazing places.”

“Most of my childhood was here, but then I was sent to Alsteare, I spent most of my days there. I told you about performing before the King, didn’t I?” Sealidan confirmed that she had. “I’ve also spent some time in the desert, the Nurvian Desert.” Her fingers moved to the scars that peeked over her shoulders. “I’ve seen some amazing things... but I’ve also seen some very horrible ones.”

The King caught her hand and kissed her fingers, his blue eyes staring into hers. “I wish I could have kept them from you.” Sincerity was etched in every word.

His touch reminded her of Glen. Her dear Glen. Tears began to leak down her face. She wanted him to be safe. Oh gods, please let him be safe.

The King was becoming more and more concerned. “Riva?” He held her face in his hand and wiped her tears gently away. “What wrong? Please tell me? If it’s in my power I will give it to you.”

She shook her head. It was so tempting, so tempting to blurt out her wish to see the dungeons and to free the man he held down there, but it was too soon. She had to bide her time. The gods had given her this one chance, she wanted to make sure it counted. “It’s nothing, please forgive me. I don’t know what came over me.”

His face hardened, gently he touched her scars. Riva squirmed away, embarrassed that she had let the enemy get so close to her. She had to get control of herself.

“Can you tell me what happened? Is that why you’re crying?”

“No. That was just from a man who thought he owned me.” She wiped her eyes clear and straightened.

The King snorted. “Just? Who gave them to you? I can have him found and-”

“He’s dead.”

There was a few moments of silence.

“Please your Majesty, I would prefer to speak of something more pleasant.” She smiled to try and lift the heavy atmosphere. “Would you care to go riding? I’ve longed to be out and breathing the fresh air again.”

“Of course. I will have two horses readied.”

“I believe my horse will be just fine, I’ll come with you to the stables if you don’t mind?”

The King smiled his most exuberant smile. “I wouldn’t mind at all.”

Princess Rivalee (Sec 3 Part 3)

“I see, your Majesty is pleased.” The Composer murmured smugly.

The King’s eyes flickered back to the small man behind him. “Yes, very. The performance tonight was your best yet.”

“You give me too much credit. Everyone knows you were more impressed with a certain singer.”

Sealidan smiled. “Yes, I daresay I was very taken with her.”

“Did you find her that agreeable?” There as a slight tone of disbelief in the Composer’s voice.

“She’s intelligent and I found her thirst for knowledge very appealing. Witty, clever, and a celestial voice? How could one not be intrigued?”

The Composer moved to his side. “While that is all well and good, may I remind his Majesty that she is of common blood and you have been disregarding your very distinguished guests.”

Sealidan’s eyes flashed dangerously. “Haven’t you been constantly badgering me that to get married and produce and heir?”

“‘Married’ is the key word in that sentence your Majesty. She doesn’t have the necessary requirements to become Queen. Illegitimate heirs only cause problems. So why are you even wasting your time with her?”

“Because unlike you I actually like her.” Sealidan retorted.

A good-natured grin slipped onto the Composer’s face and he bowed. “I see that I have overstepped my bounds.” His came up and he raised a brow to the King. “But I’m sure that my liege will see sense soon enough. I brought her for your entertainment, remember she is just a toy. The way you treat her makes me nervous. Had I known I would never have brought her along to begin with.”

“I will try to keep your words close to my heart, Windleton. I don’t think you need to worry, the girl seems to feel the social barrier as keenly as I do. Although now I have to ask... what would you do if I did become completely and helplessly infatuated with the girl?”

The Composer faced his King head on and stated very clearly. “I would do my duty with Sealidan’s best interest in mind. I would take care of her.”

The King’s expression darkened almost imperceptibly. “Even if it meant your death?”

“Since when has my life been a factor in my actions?”

Sealidan looked across the room, eyes following the dancing figures. “Then hope that the good of Sealidan never brings you across my path. I will show no mercy.”

“As expected of my King.”

3 in the Morning...

Hey guys...

So... It's 3:23 in the morning. I should be doing homework and I'm not. I swear I'll get to it. That's why I'm up this late. Really I stayed up last night and then I crashed at like... 5 or 6 yesterday... I woke up around 1 in the morning and realized I hadn't done any homework. ... Good thing tomorrow is Friday.

Fortunately I have a lovely evening planned on Saturday. Sigh... Gyoza... mmmm. Yes, be jealous.

I also talked to my sister for a good couple of hours on... Wednesday, things get so jumbled, I swear. She's got an excellent outline ready for her book and we've made a pact that when she gets home, (She's finishing up army training and will be home in a couple of weeks) We are going to work on our stories together and get things PERFECT. Then she can get published. I'll keep writing and working on stuff. It's going to be marvelous and wonderful.

You know what else is marvelous and wonderful? Having baking supplies at your fingertips. Made some cookie dough an hour ago... mhmmm. So good. Now I'm stuffed on sugar and butter and prcrastinating the inevitable.

You know what I realized as I woke up this morning. Which really I already knew but I think is really... infuriating, wonderful, annoying, simple, amazing, mind boggling... There is a word for this. But I can't find one that encompasses everything that I am feeling right now.

So I woke up after dreaming about something or other, I think in my dream I was asked to give a talk and so I was in the middle of speaking... Oh, I was singing and performing or something and I couldn't remember the words because I didn't prepare and the book I was using had the STUPID ENGLISH TRANSLATION and not the original French text. I tell you. Idiots.
Anyway, that doesn't have any connection with what I realized.

I realized that we all know... what we should do. There is a clear... This is right and this is wrong. It's really obvious, we all have a concience, we all know where we came from where we are going and what we SHOULD be doing... SO WHY DO WE HAVE SUCH A HARD TIME DOING IT? Why can't we just stick to the plan?

People say we can't be perfect. True... Does that mean we should give it up as a lost cause? It isn't IMPOSSIBLE.

It's so simple to live without bad things bothering you all the time.

THEN I realized that the "plan" we have are guidelines to keep us safe happy. So yeah, right now I'm pretty safe and happy. NOW I'm supposed go beyond that and try and find my purpose in life. Which is much much much much much MUCH more difficult......

It's like when you are in a History class and the teacher doesn't want you to just spit out facts... they want you to actually apply it. Write essays and stuff... actually apply yourself. Much harder.

But... Much more satisfying if done right. I think that's how it connected to my dream... I wanted to perform to the best of my abilities but couldn't because I hadn't prepared or really put in the effort.

Story of my life.

Princess Rivalee (Sec 3 Part 2)

Alright. This is kind of long... But I wanted it to get your attention and I was playing with the Bad guy a little. So. Here it is.

Princess Rivalee Section 3 Part 2

Riva pulled the drapes that covered the carriage walls away to peek outside. Everything looked bleak.

As if reading her mind, the composer who sat across from her said, “Don’t worry, you’ll be well taken care of.”

Riva chewed her lip and pulled her pouch up on to her lap, she shook the money out and picked out a silver. The composer’s eyes were trained on her, but he remained silent. With a smile Riva slipped the coin out the window and into the muddy street.

“You are throwing your money away!?” The composer asked incredulous.

Riva looked up at him and said very simply, “I no longer have any need for them.” She chose another coin and threw it out the window. In her mind she could see the beggars from her own capital and how they had gathered around her looking for money. Now she could grant a few wishes. Smiles would light their faces when they realized they wouldn’t go hungry for a while longer.

Another coin fell into the mud.

The composer shook his head in disbelief. “Bards... all about their music. Don’t understand the value of money...” He muttered under his breath.

Riva just picked out another coin. “What is the King like?”

The composer paused in thought. “He’s... determined, knows how to put on a good show. I’ll give him that. You don’t need to worry, he treats us very well.”

I meant as a ruler. Not as an employer. The more Riva saw of Sealidan, the more she saw poverty. The more she talked with people the more concerned she became. These people were just scraping by. She had thought Alsteare was in a bad spot, but these people had less than nothing. Everything they had once owned was given to the cause.

In her lessons, Riva had come to understand that a good community was one that constantly gave. Everyone had to give though or there would be no balance. Wasn’t that what ruling was all about? Giving to your people? Serving them so they could work to their utmost?

In the distance she could see the palace come in to view.

*****

Her first couple of days at the palace were uneventful. She was given quarters with the other female performers, they had all sort of instrumental players, acrobats, and other performers.
One night she couldn’t sleep, she knew that Glen was somewhere in the building, but it had been made very clear they they weren’t to wander. Riva stayed in the servants quarters and poked her head into the lit rooms. In one man was in deep concentration working on the most beautiful dress Riva had ever seen. Audibly she gasped.

He turned and squinted to see who it was. “Who’s there?”

“I’m sorry, I couldn’t sleep.” Riva stepped into the light and examined the dress. It was covered in tiny shining pieces that glinted in the light. “Those aren’t real diamonds, are they?”

The thin man chuckled. “Goodness, no. This dress is for a performer, not a queen.”

Riva snorted. “What kind of performer needs a dress this fancy?” Looking at the rest of the dress, Riva had to admit that the needlework was exquisite, the best she had ever seen. The material itself was high quality. A belt of fabric accented a thin waist and the breast, a square cut, with shimmering trimmings.

The balding man grabbed his stomach and began to laugh outright at Riva astonishment. As he wiped his eyes he replied, “I agree with you. This dress is probably worth more than a years wages, far too much work for a banquet. But the King does like to impress, he also likes to dote on his favorites. The Royal Composer himself vouched for the wearer of this dress.” He gestured to the entirety of the garment. “Who are you again?”

“Hmm?” Riva had been lost in thought, thinking that the King put a lot of force behind the word of the composer. “Oh, I’m Riva, I just got here with the Royal Composer. I’m a vocal performer.”

He grunted. “Well, I’m glad you appreciate your dress. Not many do.”

Riva gasped. “This is for me? It must have taken you days!”

“I started as soon as we heard you were coming.”

That had only been a week ago Riva whistled. “It’s beautiful, the most beautiful dress I’ve ever seen. I’d be honored to wear it.”

“And I’ll be honored to see you sing in it.”

They spent the rest of the night in silence.

*****

Riva spent the next few days working with the other performers and the composer. He had a few songs that he had written himself and a few that he had arranged. He ran Riva through several exercises and tested her knowledge and ability in language, music terminology, and had her sing through her repertoire.

Everything was the best of the best. Riva had never worked with such skilled musicians. It was thrilling to get up every morning knowing that together they were going to create glorious music. Together they strove for that higher sound, to be greater, better. Hours of sitting, waiting for their parts, learning the new music was rewarded when everything came together. The Royal Composer waved his arms with sudden energy, berating the performers and rewarding them with praise and a smile when they succeeded in performing up to his imagination.

By the night of the banquet Riva was dying for someone to hear the results of their effort. They were placed in a box high above the tables, at first the music was calming easy to carry a conversation through. Riva bided her time, butterflies thumping around in her stomach. As the courses ended and the guests began to rise, Riva’s heart jumped to her throat choking her.

The composer motioned for her to stand. Weakly, Riva got to her feet and took a deep breath, steadying her trembling legs. In her mind she imagined just her and the conductor. If she kept her eyes on him, she wouldn’t forget a single beat. He raised his baton and the small group began the introduction to her solo. Still taking deep low breaths Riva prepared for her entrance. It was particularly difficult, soft and steady.

The composer ushered her into the song and Riva began. The butterflies flew away and her legs steadied. Gradually the song grew and the passion became more and more apparent. Riva let the emotion carry her, letting it suck her into a different world.

All at once, it was over. The last note hung in the air, ringing in the silence. Applause broke the magic and Riva let out a deep breath. The conductor grinned at her encouragingly. She smiled back. The instrumental group launched into a dance tune and the guests were soon spinning and clapping as the dance directed.

Throughout the night Riva would stand and sing, confidence building with every song. By the time they were done with all of the songs Riva was to sing, her voice was happily exhausted. The conductor handed off his baton and offered her his arm. She took it and he whispered in her ear. “There is someone I want you to meet.”

As they made their way downstairs and struggled to keep her expression one of polite awe. From the box, the hall had seemed big, but from here it was massive. The walls were painted with vibrant colors and plated with gold. Riva recognized some of the food as delicacies, most of it she didn’t recognize at all.

Following the Royal Composer’s lead she picked up a goblet and sipped. It bubbled and fizzed in her mouth.

“May I introduce tonight’s singer, Miss Riva, your Majesty.”

Riva turned to find herself face to face with the King of Sealidan. He was tall, well built and muscled, a ornate sword hung at his side, his blond hair was swooped away from his defined face as if he was facing the wind. Blue, sparkling eyes examined her.

Remembering herself she curtsied deeply, but remained speechless.

The King chuckled, a deep rumbling sound. “Well, she certainly knows her manners.” He took her hand and kissed the back of it. “It is an honor to meet such a beautiful young lady. I must tell you, you sang like an angel tonight. My Composer has yet to let me down.” The Composer bowed slightly graciously accepting the compliment. The King still had Riva’s hand in his, he held it at arms length and gazed at her figure. “The dress fits wonderfully, I know that Micheal was concerned about it.”

Riva felt a blush touch her cheeks. She had thought that the King of Sealidan would be an older man, like her father. This man was... nothing like her father. Doting, they had told her. Hmmm.

The King smiled charmingly, seeming to sense her discomfort.

The Royal Composer seemed to find her reaction amusing as well. “Riva? Are you all right?”

She jerked from her inner thoughts. “I’m fine! I just- I’m just not used to being complimented by royalty.” True enough. Riva thought to herself.

The King smiled his white teeth showing.

Riva’s mind was in a whirlwind, thoughts jumbling over each other and confusing any order she’d had. For just a moment Riva considered killing him here and now. It wouldn’t take much. He’d be dead and she could go and save Glen. They could flee the city and be free.

But reality crashed down on her. The guards would never let her leave and there were too many for her to take alone. She’d likely be killed on the spot. Besides she wasn’t a killer and he didn’t seem like a bad person, not necessarily a good person either... but still.

The King led her to the floor. With a flourish he stopped in front of a tall mirror. “You see? You deserve every compliment.”

It had been months since Riva had seen herself in a mirror. She had lost weight and her body had been toned from constant exertion. Her braided and extravagant hair was bleached and her skin more freckled and much darker from exposure to the sun. Her green eyes seemed huge, the whites contrasting against her skin. Micheal’s dress fit her like a glove, hugging her in all the right places, the light color accented her skin tone. She stared into her eyes, examining the differences between now and then. Everything about her was hardened, tougher.

The King bowed to her, “May I have this dance?” He held his hand up to her as smile playing on his lips.

Riva smiled her eyes crinkling in mirth. It had been a long time since she had played this game. It felt... good. For some reason she had hated it before. She took his hand and curtsied. “It would be my honor, your Majesty.”

For the rest of the night, Riva was at the King’s side. He introduced her to everyone and she accepted the constant compliments. Whenever they stopped to chat Riva found that she could hold her own in any subject thrown at her. She met many interesting people and got a feel for Sealidan government. As the night went on, Riva relaxed more and began to speak freely with the King and the guests. She found their conversation enlightening and different from the views of her tutors at home. Despite being in the heart of the enemy’s country, she found herself enjoying herself. The King of Sealidan was intelligent and had a very clear thought process, she liked debating with him, bringing up different problems with government and seeing his view.

Often he would look over at her, his blue eyes trained on her expression, just watching. Riva kept her own eyes trained on her target and pretended not to notice.

“I never knew Bards were taught about so many different subjects.” Sealidan murmured at one point, when they were alone sipping their drinks.

Riva shook her head. “We aren’t. My father made sure that I had a well rounded education. He sent me to Alsteare to study at one point.”

“Really? Were you in the capital?”

Riva nodded and pretended to boast. “I even got to sing before the King a few times.” All true. “He terrified me. Most intimidating man I’ve ever met.”

The King of Sealidan chuckled. “I can’t imagine.”

“I heard you’d defeated him, the King of Alsteare himself.” Riva kept her voice carefully void of expression. She just wanted to see his reaction.

Sealidan nodded. “Ambush. Arrow to the heart.” He tapped his chest indicating the spot. “Doesn’t matter if you’re King or soldier, a well placed arrow will still kill you.” Quickly he changed subjects. “Did you like Alsteare? or Sealidan better?”

Riva crinkled her nose slightly frustrated, but somehow relieved that he wasn’t gloating. “That’s not a very fair question. We all know that I should say I like Sealidan better.”

He laughed, it wasn’t a polite laugh like the ones he had given some of the dignitaries. It was a real laugh. He seemed to appreciate her honesty and ideas.

Riva liked making him laugh. It gave his eyes life. “Alsteare had it’s charms. My favorite were the operas.” Riva sighed wistfully. “Alstearians can write a mean opera.”

“You’ll have to sing your favorite for me sometime.”

Her face lit up. “You promise?” She had a specific one in mind.

“Of course! I’m a man of my word.”

Riva grinned in anticipation and took another sip. The sparkly drink was making her tongue loose. She’d have to watch how much she drank.

“What’s this?”

His finger traced a long scar that came across her shoulder and the front of her neck.

Her smiled faded and she pulled away, remembering why she was here and who he was. She couldn’t afford to get familiar with the enemy. Imad was still fresh in her mind. “It’s just... an old scar.”

He frowned and pressed gently. “It doesn’t look old. It looks recent.” His eyebrows twitched questioningly. “Is there something I can do?”

Riva pursed her lips, but didn’t answer, instead she changed the subject. “Surely you have other guests to attend to, your Majesty. You’ve spent far too much time in my company.”

His easy smile was back, “My other guests are not nearly as entertaining as you.”

Riva blushed as his eyes bore into her. Every bone in her body was telling her that this man was dead serious and very dangerous. “Your Majesty must excused me. I’m afraid I must retire.” She turned to leave but he caught her arm.

“May I escort you?” His concern was sincere.

Riva squirmed as she tried to think of a tactful way to decline.

He sighed heavily. “Forgive me, I’m not being very considerate.” He took her hand and bowed deeply. Far deeper than etiquette required. He straightened and kissed her hand. “I enjoyed your company, Riva. I look forward to conversing with you some other time.”

Riva bowed and fled for her life.

Busy Busy Busy

SO BUSY!!! I've been going for... five days straight!! I've been to taekwondo, two buffy the vampire night marathons, snowboarding, rock climbing, water polo-ing, star gazing, played Dance Dance Revolution, ice skating, and I met my awesome visting teacher companion and our out little friend we are teaching. They are both super cool!!! OOh! and today I got bored and so I drew on my arm.

... (half an hour later)

I would show you the picture I took with my phone... but I have no idea how to get the picture from my phone to the computer. Suffice to say, I did it with black and silver sharpie and it looks SICK. Maybe someday I'll figure it out and you will all be wowed.

The other thing that I have done with my time... is to work on my story. I now know how it will end. Which has been concerning me for a long time now, because I had no idea how I wanted to do it, but now that I've got it all down, I can start writing again. So be ready for some chapters coming in quick succession.

Chuckle... I'm watching Megamind right now, probably the funniest movie ever. LOVE IT!
I'm also listening to KELLY!! Sigh... I'm so sad.

Okay, really I was just checking in. If you've got comments and all that goodness, I love to hear them. They make my day.

Right... I'm out.

Eternity Prompt

When I get Eternity...

When I get Eternity, I will master every instrument known to man. I will have a four octave range and will rival Mozart in sight reading.
When I get Eternity, I will become a black belt in Taekwondo and every other martial art I even attempt to learn. I will have no fear in performing back flips and other acrobatic skills that seem to baffle me now. I will scale buildings and perform miraculous stunts.
When I get Eternity, I will learn how to ice skate and will dance across the ice at speeds that will make my heart race. I will fly down a mountain on my board and casually show off all the tricks I've been saving.
When I get Eternity, I will master swimming strokes and learn how to dive from incredibly high distances with finesse.
When I get Eternity, I will discuss matters of science with all the greats and hold my own against them. I will have an infallible understanding of the human body, the heavens, the earth, chemicals, plants and animals.
When I get Eternity, I will learn every language and be a renowned chef.
When I get Eternity, I will learn to mold clay into life-like sculptures that awe, astound and inspire. I will learn to etch scenes into paper, towering mountings, glorious sunrises, and show others the worlds that I can see.

When I get Eternity...

Princess Rivalee (Sec 3 Part 1) and my Brilliance

HAHAHA! I'm a genius!

I want you all to read this part. ALL of you. I feel so smart.

I was in a rut... wondering and wondering how I was going to do this part, when BAM! It hits me. Totally didn't plan it. hehe.

Here you all are, the next chapter of Riva's adventure.

Princess Rivalee Section 3 Part 1

Riva pulled her cloak tighter around her body and pulled the hood even lower. The farther south she traveled the colder it got, but it wasn’t snow like she was used to. No, it was like an ice bath, wet, freezing rain. That soaked into her bones and refused to leave. At least the Desert had been dry.

Her teeth chattered as Ettore plodded forward. They had crossed over the border a few days ago and were back to small villages that were few and far between. When Riva felt like she could brave the cold rain, she would peek out and examine the foreign land.

The far east side of the Kingdom were backed with massive mountains that took Riva’s breath away. They were still covered in snow and dotted with pine. The steep ridges and dark grey of their faces gave Riva a foreboding sense.

Angrily her stomach growled. It hadn’t been fed that day and had been protesting for nearly the entire ride. Riva was just glad she wasn’t walking. Ettore was mud spattered and just as miserable as she was. Riva had often jumped down to give him a break letting him munch on what grass and straw he could find. They never moved far when Riva walked, the mud sucked at her boots, threatening to tear them from her feet.

So mostly they just took frequent breaks.

Riva had been forced to purchase much of her equipment from farm folk; Raj hadn’t realized how different the climate was in Sealidan. They were quiet and generally unhelpful, but when they saw the gold that she carried, their eyes would widen with greed. It hurt Riva to see them at the mercy of a chunk of metal. Every farm she passed looked rundown and on the verge of falling apart. The people looked no better. Despite being growers of food, their faces were taunt and bodies were thin.

Light shone ahead and Ettore’s ears turned towards the sounds of an inn. Relief spread through Riva as she imagined a warm bath, food and clean sheets. She moaned softly just thinking about it, rubbing her sore bum and legs. She rummaged through her purse and her heart sank. There were only a few silvers and coppers left and she needed to feed Ettore first and foremost.

Frowning in concentration, Riva drew a quick map in her head. Carefully calculating how long it would take to reach the capital and how much money she would need to feed both Ettore and her.

Even if she spread it thin, they had nowhere near enough.

Sighing deeply Riva thought, I shouldn’t have given them so many gold pieces. Silver would have been plenty. She smiled, recalling their faces and shook her head. She didn’t regret it. There were other sources of food she could pull from.

Ettore came to a stop in front of the bright inn and Riva dismounted wearily. The horse kept his head down, exhausted. While the warmth of the inn called to her, Riva knew she had to see to him. Gently she led him to the little stable that protruded from the main building.

A boy was already there, seeing to several other horses. “I’ll take ‘im, sir.” The boy piped up, looking up from his work.

Riva smiled finding it amusing rather than insulting that he saw her as a man. It was dark and she still hadn’t pulled down her hood. Ushering Ettore into a free stall, she answered. “No, but thank you. I’ll see to him myself.”

The boy bobbed his head. “Sorry, miss. I thought you was a man.”

“An easy mistake. What is your name?”

“Thomas, miss. Though mos’ call me Tom.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Tom. This here is Ettore and I am Riva. Is your master in?” She saw no reason to changer her name, it was simply an absurd idea for the Princess to be in enemy territory by herself.

“Yes miss, he’s inside seeing to guests.”

“Thank you, Tom.” Riva caught the bridle as Ettore spat it into her hand. He worked his jaw, getting used to the feeling of freedom. Riva moved to the saddle and began undoing the straps. With a mighty heave she pulled it from his back and set it on the side of the stall. Then she stripped the blanket and her pack as well. “Where are your combs and things?”

Tom gestured to the back of the stable. Riva found a bucket and went to the well she had seen outside. After getting water she began to wash off the mud on Ettore legs. It took several trips, but Riva wanted him clean and comfortable. She checked his hooves for loose shoes and dirt. Taking her belt knife she picked the mud and stones from them and began to rub him down. Then taking one of the larger blankets stashed in the back of the stable, she threw it over him knowing it would be a cold night.

“Will you see he’s well fed and watered?” She asked Tom only looking up after she’d completed her little ritual.

Tom was leaning on one of the stall walls watching her in confusion. “Course, miss.” He mumbled with his habitual bob. As he straightened he spoke. “Ye’re prob’ly the oddest lady I seen yet. Meanin’ no offence.”

“None taken.” She patted Ettore. “He’s an old friend, that’s all.” She stretched and let out a great sigh. “Now it’s my turn to get clean.”

Tom grinned. “Aye, miss. Ye smell of horse.”

Her eyebrow twitched up in response. “And what do you think you smell like, exactly?”

He just shook his head and returned to the horses.

The inn was warm and loud. One corner was filled with men that were loudly draining their sorrows in ale. She spotted what must have been the Master of the house, seeing to some finely dressed officials. Other than that there were only a few customers here and there, quietly eating. With her pack in one hand, Riva moved to the bar. A woman with defined crows feet, wispy blond pulled in a bun and a small towel of authority that constantly roved over the counter and into mugs met her. “What can I do ye for?”

“One room and a meal, please.”

“How about a warm bath?”

Riva ached to sink into a hot bath... but knew that she had to make her money last. “No, thank you.”

The wiry woman in front of her seemed to read her thoughts. “A warm bath would do yeh good. It’ll be a cold night.” She was talking with indifference, but Riva could see a glint in her eye.

A thought struck Riva. “What if I make you a deal?”

The woman’s eyes narrowed. “What kinda deal?”

Riva jerked a thumb to the room. “I’ll sing for my supper and pay for the bath.”

“Bah, how do I know ye’re any good?”

“Fair point, I’ll sing one song for your good faith. Come now, with such an important official here it would leave a good impression on your name.” Riva leaned in conspiratorially, seeing the woman chew her lip in concentration. “Do we have a deal?”

The woman shrugged. “Deal.”

Riva grinned. “Wonderful, how much do I owe you?”

“Two silver.” Riva made a show of frowning and grumbling at the price, but didn’t try to barter any further. She could smell the food in the kitchen and was sure her money was well worth it. The woman’s hands closed over the two pieces and flashed them out of existence. “I’ll show ye to yer room.”

The room was small but comfortable. A small cot in the corner with fresh straw and a clean blanket. A small table with a basin and pitcher was in the corner. Clean. Simple.

“We’ll have yer bath up in a bit.”

Riva nodded and put her pack down by the cot, she shed her cloak and ran her fingers through her wet hair, trying to get it into some kind of order. She pulled out a wrinkled shirt, it was damp, but not soaking. Throwing it on, she sighed inwardly. There was nothing else she could do for her appearance.

She followed the little woman down and stood before the fire, feeling the warmth and reveling in it. Steam rose from her soaked trousers and boots, she watched it flow and heard a soft thud behind her. Turning she saw that her dinner had arrived. Her stomach growled, reminding her that she hadn’t eaten all day. Thanking the woman, who must have been the innkeeper’s wife, Riva sat and began to inhale the thin soup and hard bread.

It disappeared too quickly, Riva let out a breath of satisfaction and stretched her cold muscles. Taking a quick swig from her glass, she found it to be a spicy mead. It soothed her scalding tongue and settled into her stomach quickly.

It had to be the best meal she had ever had.

The woman glared at her and Riva realized she was expecting her to sing. Riva pursed her lips, she’d eaten the food before she had sung for the woman’s goodwill. Embarrassed Riva stood before the fire and without introduction launched into a ballad about the old heroes and their adventures. It was one of her old favorites and something all of these people could appreciate.

Her voice was still cold and rough from disuse, but it was a simple song with an easy range and her voice quickly remembered what it was like to sing.

Riva remembered what it was like to sing, to really sing, to let loose and let your heart soar with the words and notes. After the ballad, Riva switched to a song she had heard in the desert, wanting a variety. Then she moved into a stirring dance song. She had gotten the drunkards attention then, they stood and pounded their feet acting as the drum. Whooping and swinging each other around, they danced. Riva struggled not to laugh and forced her voice into a stronger projection to overcome the noise. On the ending verse the men sang with her in their loud brawling voices and pulled one of the serving girls into the dance.

Riva laughed aloud as the song ended and was about to start another when the Master came forward with a fiddle. “I can play if ye like.” Riva smiled and welcomed him. Quickly they decided on a song and his bow flew across the strings madly. For most of the night, Riva sang and sang. Sometimes with the fiddle and sometimes not.

“Another one!”

“No, a love song.” a second voice called out insistantly.

Riva nodded, voice tiring and sang the same aria she had when she had first met Glen. Tears tricked down her cheeks and she didn’t bother to wipe them away. The haunting melody rose and fell and Riva put her heart into the song.

The last note hung in the air and the room was silent.

Voice on the verge of exhaustion, Riva bowed signaling the end of her performance.

Several of the raucous men in the corner called out their disapproval.

Riva smiled, pleased to have entertained them to such a degree. She touched her throat and swallowed. “I can’t sing anymore. My voice will give out.”

“Master get us another mug of ale! We mustn’t have our lady parched!” One of the men yelled. God’s but he could be loud.

The Master put down his fiddle and went to the bar. Riva gripped his arm as he went by. “No, please, mead will be fine. Why don’t you continue to play?”

He guffawed, “Me? I know a couple tunes and a dance here or there, but I don’t know ‘em fancy songs. Yer voice hid all my muddlings anyway.”

Too tired to argue further, Riva let him go and gratefully accepted the mead when he returned. Raising her glass to the men in the corner she downed her mug, soothing her tired throat.

“Kolo’s Sorrow. Am I right?” A high voice asked.

Riva finished her glass and turned to see the official standing near her. He gestured to the seat next to her. “May I?”

She nodded and he sat. “How do you know an Alstearian opera?” She asked.

“I could ask you the same question, you’ve clearly been trained, however.” He took a small sip from his own glass. “Didn’t think there were many bards left.”

Ah... He thought she was a musician. “There aren’t.” She answered truthfully.

“Where did you train?”

Riva bit the inside of her cheek. She had forgotten that she was in Sealidan and that there were people here who could recognize her for what she was because of her education. Riva racked her mind but could think of any schools that taught music. She could either bluff her way out or tell the truth.

Looking at the man, she decided to risk it. “In Alsteare. It’s not something that I like to... announce.”

“Hmm, I suspected a much, your Alstearian accent is impeccable. As is your desert accent... Where did you ever learn to speak the nomad’s language?”

Riva let a wry grin flicker across her face. “I spent some time with them recently. You tend to pick things up pretty quickly around that kind of group.”

The little man raised his eyebrows. “Sounds like there is a story behind those words. You’ll have to promise to tell me it sometime.”

A frown stole across her face. “Sometime? What are you hinting at, sire?” She had to remind herself to speak formally with the official.

His own little smile spread slowly and he leaned back and put his hands together with his fingers spread apart. “I have a little proposition for you.”

“Yes?” Don’t tell me you want me to be a spy. Don’t tell me you want me to be a spy!

“I want you... to sing in the King’s Court.”

Riva had just taken another drink to hide her anxiousness, at his words she spewed it across the table and began coughing and hacking. “You what?!”

His smile spread further. “I want you to sing at the King’s Court. You see, I happen to be a composer. One that was hired by the King to create music that keeps his court members entertained and attentive. I arrange many pieces for his banquets and other formalities. Do you see? If you came with me, you would no longer be singing at inns and wherever you can find work. You would have a steady job, would be well fed and housed in the palace itself.”

Riva could not believe her luck. Never before had she believed that the gods watched her and cared for her. Now she knew, they were watching her now, guiding her path. Just as she was about of run out of money... Ha! She would be inside the palace. If she was careful she could find Glen and maybe get him out-

Her mind was miles away when the thin man asked. “Well? What do you say?”

Her eyes darted to his and she grinned. “How can I say no to such an offer?”