The Winter Phoenix (WAYHAUGHT)

Defending Waverly

The Realm:

Nicole remained hidden behind a tree. "I know you're here," Waverly called out. "I will find you."

She waited for Waverly to pass, mesmerised by her slender form perfectly outlined through silken material. Since the first day they met Waverly had held a special fascination. Independent, free-spirited, yet graceful in all she did, in contrast to Nicole's more clumsy way of being, more likely to tumble from a horse than ride with Waverly's natural flare.

Waverly must have been no more than ten when their paths entwined, watching Wynonna play the fiddle. An accomplished musician, even at the age of fifteen, she often provided an evening's entertainment by the campfire, playing her instrument, while singing folk songs of daring deeds, and hearts won. Waverly being the younger sibling rarely joined her sister, seeking the company of her mother in the lower glades, or the other children of court. Nicole would sometimes sneak away simply to watch her dance, spinning and twirling with abandon, wishing she could be the one in Waverly's arms.

As heir to the realm, Nicole had the privilege of first choice. Whoever she decided to name as her consort was obliged to accept, male or female. Her own parents had followed this tradition, her mother falling in love with a young girl who sold apples at market, annoying many by taking someone considered less than polished in the politics of their people. Nicole's mother didn't care, relying on her heart to tell her this was the one who would make her happy.

Waverly stopped by a large oak, listening intently for any movement that might give away Nicole's position. "I know you're watching me."

She turned in Nicole's direction, her body perfectly revealed in the bright light of that particular day, Nicole taken by the young woman standing before her. "I will not lie, I can see you."

"Show yourself."

"A little longer. Stand perfectly still, exactly where you are."

"Shan't. You can't make me do anything I don't want to."

Nicole appeared from her hiding place, her ability to move quickly catching Waverly off guard, who let out a squeal as arms wrapped around her waist. "I could order you to dance."

"You would not. And, I am no puppet for you my liege. I dance for no one but myself."

"And, your companion. Surely you will dance for them."

Waverly shook her head. "Never. Perhaps for my children. They may have the pleasure of my feet."

"You are a tease," Nicole replied. "I have seen you dance often. I have had the pleasure of watching those feet of yours."

Waverly playfully slapped Nicole's arm, Nicole gasping in faux shock. "Forgive me," Waverly said, kneeling. "I keep forgetting. My liege I shall never do so again."

"I shall have you locked in the deepest prison cell, where the sun will never touch your skin again. Or, you could simply kiss me."

Waverly looked up, contemplating Nicole's request. "I'll take the deepest cell, if I may."

"You are too cruel to me. That's it, the deepest cell for you young lady. Come, I haven't got all day."

"You would never. You like me too much."

"I do not. I find you irksome."

Waverly snorted at Nicole's choice of words. "Irksome. Well, I find you vexatious."

"Is that so? You deserve a good spanking for daring to call the next ruler such a thing."

"You wouldn't dare," Waverly replied, turning to run. "I won't let you."