Snippet #1022424

The morning had come as it always did, swift and unstoppable. Kai had practiced into the early hourse of the day before finally retreating to the castle. From his room he could see miles across the Earth Kingdom, it's natural beauty never failed to astound him. The ball would be held at the White Palace that stood on the border lines of all four Kingdoms making it fair for all attending. With the ball on his mind Kai dropped into bed, exausted and fustrated he fell into a restless sleep...

'Prince Kai! You must wake up!'
An irritating high pitched voice squeaked in his ear. Even before he'd opened his eyes Kai could sense the urgency around him. What was going on?
'The ball Pince Kai, you'll be late.'
The deep voice drowned out the previous squeaking. Kai slowly opened his eyes to see the Army Captin's son leaning against the far wall. His arms were crossed and there was a mischevious grin on his face.
'Darius.'
Kai aknowledged his friend before turning to the young maid. She was hurrying about the room in a panic holding a green sash and muttering fluently in a forgien tounge. With an effort he pulled himself out of bed and started to dress himself. The trousers were a tightly fitted black riding pair, a white shirt, a black button up waistcoast and finally...he leaned over to the maid and pulled the sash from her hand. She sighed and sat down, obviously relieved. A quick glance in the mirror told him he looked like an fool. He never wore cerimonial clothes. Darius laughed at the expression on Kai's face.
'It could be worse, you could have to dress as a woman.'
Kai didn't find that even slightly amusing.
'I take it you're my escort?'
'Yes.'

The trip to the stables was quick and in silence. Kai's stallion was already saddled and ready to go along with Darius' charger. The two men mounted and rode out towards the center lands. Kai could feel the dread building with every mile he covered...