Truly Gifted

Disclaimer: Everything belongs to Sherwood Smith, and nothing to me, except maybe Vidanric's thoughts.

Author's Note: I'd just like to say a few things before beginning with the story, so as to clear a few things up. "Truly Gifted" is actually "Vidanric's Birthday Surprise" by Sherwood Smith from Vidanric's point of view. This is my own interpretation of how he felt and why, so don't start dissing me about anything which you don't agree on. However, you may leave a comment and say stuff like: "I would've expected him to do this instead". Also, you guys may find this boring as most of the stuff in here is basically the same as what Sherwood Smith wrote, and I just changed the words here and there, except adding in Vidanric's thoughts and what happened when he went to Elenet's.

The title "Truly Gifted" popped into my mind one day, after I had read "Vidanric's Birthday Surprise", prompting me to use it as the title, as I felt that Mel was "Truly Gifted" to be able to learn magic, and Vidanric was "Truly Gifted" as got the best birthday present in the world. Furthermore, they are in love with one another. you get the picture!

Chapter 1: Love

Meliara and I stood side by side in the Throne room, staring up at Flauvic's great tree, all blond wood with gold and amber and even silver streaks winding up the smooth bark. Way, way beyond the roof his silver- green leaves had turned to gold, for the time was autumn, and the leaves would soon come drifting down.

Whatever you thought about Flauvic Merindar, you had to admit he made a really handsome tree. Even in plant form, he still garnered more attention than any of us at court.

"Let's go," said Mel.

I smiled down at her somewhat quizzically. "You really think he listens to us?"

"Oh, I'm sure of it. And while I don't have the least objection to his hearing lots of good government" - she pointed at the cushions before what was once the throne dais - "I don't care for him to hear anything else."

I laughed. I personally felt that Flauvic did not lose anything but his human form ever since he became a tree. His family was no longer around, and the few friends he had - or would've had - deserted him as soon as they knew of his treachery. Most of us courtiers may yearn for power and wealth, but we are not stupid enough to forsake our lives for titles and trappings.

I shudder whenever I think back on the events that transpired that fateful day. What would've happened if Flauvic became King? The entire court would certainly obey him once he'd disposed of me, but he would have ruled through fear and not respect. Something, which I am proud to say, is what I do.

As we started out, I glanced over my shoulder, then said, "I must admit, the idea that he hears every judgement I make keeps me honest."

"As if you weren't already," Mel muttered. My heart swelled with love for her, and I was reminded once more why I had chosen this amazing woman to be my wife. My lips twitched, and I gave her one of those speculative looks from my long grey eyes, and slid my hand under her swinging hair to hold her close. Touching her still made my skin tingle, and I marvelled at how hopelessly and recklessly in love I was. As they say, "True love marks a man".

Our wedding had been a splendid affair which lasted for days, but Mel confided in me that she felt like an effigy throughout the whole thing, and only paid attention whenever necessary. "Like when we exchanged our vows?" I asked with a cheeky grin. She pulled me towards her with our linked hands, and kissed me on the lips in answer. "Mmm - I'm glad I asked," I murmured as our lips brushed against each other.

Our arms tightened around each other as she turned her head, placing her mouth just scant inches away from my ear. "I'm glad you asked, I'm running out of reasons to kiss you. Except for the fact that I love you, of course," she whispered, laughter threatening to bubble from her throat as she nuzzled my cheek.

"Then that is reason enough," I replied with a soft laugh.

A/N: Short and sweet first chapter, but it was nice writing that fluff scene! Of course I want your reviews, so please spare a minute to comment on this!