The Dancing Princess

Tamara

Chapter 1

Posted on Saturday, 27 October 2001, at 2:53 p.m.

It was a cold, stormy night, and a beautiful young girl lay in front of the fire. Her long, chestnut curls glimmered in the firelight and her deep brown eyes looked into the flames. She was but sixteen years of age, although her maturity far surpassed her years. Basking in the warmth of the fire, she fell into a tranquil doze.

As she slept, she dreamt of pure white snow and sparkling water; of beautiful maidens and handsome young men; of soft satin and crisp taffeta; of light and magic. In her dreams, she was a fairy princess, gliding through the sky, gently capering over soft, white clouds. She was a dancing princess, and this was her kingdom. As she soared over her kingdom, she gazed over her people, her mountains and forests, her home. And as she pirouetted to a stop, she was met by her prince.

And when she woke, Elizabeth Bennet knew she must follow her destiny. She knew she must follow a path that would take her to the man fate had declared she would marry. She understood that only by following her loftiest dreams would this aching, gnawing hole be filled, this need for love. She must follow her passion, and dance.

Chapter 2

Jane Bennet was a lovely girl. She had long, blond hair and a cherubic appearance. Her nature was as sweet as she looked. She was always concerned with others and never with herself, helped much along but her predisposition to judge even the worst villain favourably. She tolerated her mother's 'nerves' with angelic patience, never once becoming short or rude. Not to mention how she tried he utmost to cure her younger sisters of their silliness, an impossible task.

Her youngest sister Lydia was simply silly and refused to ever do anything that could possibly ever have any real benefit for herself, and certainly not for others.
Katherine, known as Kitty, was hardly older than Lydia, and simply because she had not as forthcoming a temper as Lydia, and because she had a little common sense and talent, she was a little less vulgar as well.
Mary, the middle sister had neither beauty nor good humour like her sisters, so she laboured for accomplishments. She played on the piano as well as sang, but I will refrain from commenting on either of these activities since hat I say will hardly be complementary.
The closest sister to Jane in age was Elizabeth, known as Lizzy. Although Jane was the most beautiful of the five girls, Lizzy came in a close second. She also had sharp wit and much common sense, along with a zest for life which made her popular and well-liked. Jane and Lizzy were not only the most companionable sisters, but also the best of friends. This was hardly surprising, as there was but a year's difference in their ages.

The first thing Jane did every morning was a short call to Elizabeth's room, to enquire how her night was and just for a sisterly chat. This morning she woke up before sunrise, and after dressing, she went to check on Lizzy. As she entered the room, she saw Elizabeth fully dressed (unusual for such an early hour) and staring into the fire.

'Lizzy, what is the matter? For what reason are you up so early?'

'Oh, Jane. I have had the strangest dream. It was almost as if my fate was telling me what I must do with my life. Jane, we must go to London, and I must dance!' And she proceeded to tell Jane what she dreamt the previous night.

As they descended to breakfast later that morning, Jane still had an uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach. Was this simply another one of Elizabeth's fantasies? Or was she really serious, the more worrying of the two possibilities? If she was serious, then it would undoubtedly have serious consequences for both herself and the rest of their family. She ached to consult her father, but her better judgement told her it would be a very unwise course of action. So she simply fixed her usual tranquil smile, hiding the uneasiness in her mind, and walked in to greet her family.

Elizabeth mentioned nothing of her dream to anyone else, not even to Jane, that day. In fact, she hardly said anything, simply did her reading and her sewing without participating in any conversation. But even though her mouth was still, her brain was very busy. At sixteen and seventeen, her and Jane were neither too old nor too young to attend a school in London. She was sure there was one, a sort of finishing school perhaps, that would place sufficient emphasis on art for Jane, and also teach dance for her. She was of a light, supple build, something quite suited to dance, and as she played on the piano and knew a number of basic dances, she would have sufficient musical and co-ordination skills to join such a school. Something told her she would not have to take the dance very far, just a few simple productions in London and no touring, to find her destiny. Her parents were not destitute, and therefore they could attend quite a refined school. She stood up, walked over to her desk, and began a letter to her aunt in London.

Dearest Aunt Gardiner,

I am certain that on reading this letter you will think I have gone out of my mind. I had a dream last night, and I was dancing. I was a dance princess, reigning over my kingdom. And through my dance, I found my prince.

Aunt, I have a strong feeling that this dream was a message for me. This dream is telling me that I must come to London and learn to dance, in order for me to find the man I am fated to marry. You know I would never marry except for love, and something is telling me that this is the only way I will find that love.

I therefore am asking you to please discretely find out if there are any schools in London. It must have an emphasis on art for Jane, must be refined although within our father's price range, and should preferably be some sort of finishing school suited to myself and Jane. If it is within an appropriate walking distance from your home, it would be even better, for then we would save our father money for our room and board. I must learn to dance, and I would only take part in minor productions, with no touring (although I feel that I will be in dance for only a very short time before I am forced to quit it).

I have not posed the idea to Jane or to anyone else in my family, and I eagerly await your reply before I proceed.

Yours, &c

Elizabeth.

As she looked up from her desk, Elizabeth saw Jane staring intently at her, so she gave Jane a reassuring smile, while in her heart hoping that this was right, both for her and for Jane, and praying her aunts hopefully favourable reply would come soon.

Chapter 3

It was three days before her aunt's reply arrived. Three days in which Elizabeth tried her best to forget it all and remain as she usually was, lest someone, most probably her father, suspect she was up to something. When it did come, she resisted the urge to rip it open on the spot, and instead, she quietly excused herself and went to read it in her own room, where no one would see her reaction.

My Dear Lizzy

I was absolutely delighted to receive your letter, and most definitely do not think you have lost your senses. I had actually been hoping you and Jane would consider some sort of final, formal schooling, and was unsure how you would react to the idea.

I have the perfect school for you. The girls board just two doors down from us, and the school is at the end of our street. It is a very refined school, but offers part or full scholarships to promising young women. They teach music, art and dance, have socials with young men regularly. As far as their shows go, they are one of the best institutions in London, and therefore have widely acclaimed shows, and naturally brilliant teachers.

I have sent a letter to your parents, making them think this was my idea, but you discuss the subject with Jane.

Yours &c

Mrs Gardiner.

Elizabeth felt euphoric. Her heart beat in time to an imaginary tune and she stood up and began to dance. Her room evaporated around her, and a stage materialised. A whole audience stood before her, gazing enraptured as she began her dance. She twirled and capered across the stage, moving her lithe body in time to the music. She stood poised, about to leap into her final pirouette, when Jane's voice broke her reverie,

'Lizzy, what on earth are you doing?'

'I'm dancing. Oh Jane, we are to go to school in London together. You will learn art, and I dance. Oh Jane, I must tell you!' And she launched into an account of her letter to her aunt, her aunt's reply and their plans.

Within the fortnight, Jane and Elizabeth were off to London for auditions.

Chapter 4

As Jane and Elizabeth arrived, they were welcomed very warmly by their aunt, their youngest cousin in her arms. Their uncle also came out to greet them, followed by three frolicking children. They were to go out to dinner that evening, to a school friend of Mrs Gardiner's, one Lady Potter whose daughter attended the school. The girls were looking forward to it immensely.

Dinner passed uneventfully. The girls met Miss Lily Potter, who was the same age as Elizabeth. They found her to be very sweet and friendly, and expressed a wish to become greater friends with her.

By the time they arrived back at their aunt and uncle's home, Elizabeth was starting to get butterflies in her stomach. Was thing the right thing to do? It was all very well for her to want to dance and be part of a school, although she was beginning to doubt how much she wanted it, but to push Jane into it as well? How would she cope? Would either of them make friends, or would they be rejected, and be forced to make do with each other's now miserable company? And what if her dream was just that, a dream? What if she lacked sufficient talent to even get into the school, let alone get the scholarship she needed? And what if this was no the way to meet the man she would marry? What if her dancing prince did not even exist, and it was all a futile chase? Had she been too hasty in achieving this? Underneath all her qualms, what if she was wrong?

Realising that it was of no point to go into 'what ifs, she put on an excited smile in case Jane was having similar doubts, and her glum face was exacerbating them.

Jane was indeed having doubts. She doubted that Elizabeth had any idea what she was getting them into. She doubted that she herself had the strength and self-confidence to survive at such a school where everyone performed so well. She doubted she had the talent to achieve. Although, she did not doubt her sister, their ability to make friends, or that this would eventually lead where Lizzy wished it to. And so she put on a brave face for Elizabeth, while secretly dreading the morrow.

Thanx for the encouragement. Yes, Natalie, Miss Lily Potter would be the mother of our favourite wizard. I didn't know her maiden name so I just used her *married name. Although that has nothing to do with the story. Tamara

Chapter 5

' Good Morning ladies. You, I assume, are Misses Jane and Elizabeth Bennet. I am Mrs Virose, the head-mistress of the Rose Lee Academy of Dance and Art.'

And so began their interview. Mrs Gardiner went to have tea with Mrs Virose, while the girls went their separate ways for their auditions. Jane was asked to sketch a still life of a single perfect rose in a crystal vase, which she did magnificently. Elizabeth was shown some steps and asked to repeat them, which she did perfectly, and then to perform a dance she knew. Mrs Gardiner then rejoined her nieces, and they went together to hear the results, and if they were to be accepted.

'Mrs Gardiner, you have two most exceptionally talented young ladies here. I am so pleased you decided to allow them some formal education, because with a little work, they will shine. Miss Bennet has an exceptional talent for sketch and for needlework as you have shown me. We will teach her expert embroidery as well as art. Miss Elizabeth, have you ever taken any dance lessons before, such as ballet with your governess?

'We did not have a governess, ma'am. I did learn a little dance from my aunt, but nothing formal.'

'Well than all the better. If you have achieved this without any instruction, than with a little training, you will be the star dancer of our Academy.'

'And what of other skills will they learn?' enquired Mrs Gardiner. She wanted to ensure her nieces would be receiving a complete education, that they would not become simple or vulgar.

'We teach all our girls the same skills, but we concentrate on their talent. All girls learn basic needlework, décor, music, etc, for the first two hours of the day. We then have academic classes, because we wish our girls o have a reputation of intelligence. They learn history, geography, management, mathematics and languages. We even teach them intellectual games such as chess and a general knowledge game. Then we have luncheon, and in the afternoon they concentrate on their talent. They always end at 4. When we have tea together, and they are free for the rest of the day. The usually have a little work to do in the evenings, such as needlework of books to read. The girls who do not board here are free to stay for dinner, or they may go home. We have rooms if they have need to be here late and wish to stay the night. When we have a ball or some other function, a certain class, for example the music class, will organise it. They will decide on the décor, the music, although we decide the guests. At functions such as these, we invite a number of young men, some the brothers of our girls, others from the universities. These are reasonably frequent events, and although one class organises the function, all the girls are involved. We have only about 60 girls at our Academy, ranging from ages 13 to 19, although everyone gets on very well.'

'And what of finances?'

'We are fortunate to have Lord --- as a patron, and he generously provides scholarships for those in need. We have mostly very talented high society girls. We will not accept even the most talented young lady if she does not show a certain refinement. We do not wish for our girls to be exposed to vulgarity. Your nieces have shown an abundance of this refinement, more than most country girls, and since they have such exceptional talent, we will fully sponsor them.'

'And when may we start?' Jane ventured to ask.

'I would like you to begin classes this afternoon. Our semester began today, and I would like you to begin right away. In fact, you should stay for tea and meet all the girls this evening. Tonight is to be a special return dinner, and the siblings, alma mater sisters and older brothers, are invited to attend. You will e escorted home.'

'Thank you so very much' replied Elizabeth, who thought all her dreams had come true. 'We would be delighted.'

And so the girls returned home, talking happily about how wonderful it would be to learn, and how they would be in the company of such elegant girls, and how lucky they were to be fully sponsored. Mrs Gardiner just smiled, glad her nieces were so happy, and even more glad she would have them near, and would have the opportunity to be introduced to proper young girls and suitable young men, and that they were receiving a complete education instead of running around wild in Meryton.

Chapter 6

That very afternoon, they girls began their classes.

Jane's class consisted of 6 girls. They were lucky in that all 6 of them had the same major subjects - sketch and embroidery. Jane was introduced, and she met the other girls. Miss Potter was in her class, which was very fortunate for them both, as they both were rather shy.

Elizabeth was in a class of 5 girls. Her major subjects were music and dance, which were combined as one subject. If you wished to do music, you must dance, and visa versa. She met a lovely young, and very shy girl, Miss Darcy. The immediately became friends. Miss Darcy was obviously from a wealthy family, but she was not al all proud or presumptuous.

All the girls rejoined for tea, and Jane and Elizabeth met everyone, although they landed up sitting just with Misses Darcy and Potter. By the end of tea, the 4 girls, all of whom were new, were fast friends.

Dinner that night was an interesting affair. Jane and Elizabeth were astounded at the elegance and beauty of the Academy. They met many people, most of who were civil and even friendly. One of the exceptions was Miss Caroline Bingley, who was pompous and overdressed. She had hardly any talent, but was nonetheless in the school because she could weave very well (although she had nothing else to her advantage). She was joined that evening by her sister, Mrs Hurst, who had left school two years ago and had married a man of more fashion than fortune within the year, although she had not brought her husband with tonight. Their older brother was with Miss Darcy's brother in Derbyshire, and therefore neither of them could attend. The other older siblings were pleasant, and quite a few older brothers remarked to their sisters on the beauty of the new Hertfordshire girls.

And so began their life at the Academy. Their classes were interesting and stimulating. Jane's art drastically improved, and Elizabeth was soon ahead of the girls who had already been there for a semester. The girls were friendly, and they were having a wonderful time.

Chapter 7

The music class was all a flutter. Mrs Virose was coming to talk to them. They had done nothing very good, as far as they knew. Neither had they done anything very bad. What could she possibly want with them?

They heard her footsteps down the marble corridor, and they quickly assumed positions either at their seats, or at the ballet bar. They had all been working extremely hard, and as this was their practise, not teaching period, they were alone.

Mrs Virose walked in, and they all curtsied. As they resumed their seats, the inscrutable look on her face making them even more nervous, she seated herself in the teacher's chair.

'Girls, I have a wonderful surprise for you. I warn you, you will have to work very hard as we do not have a lot of time. The Academy wishes to hold a very special event, but as you are the main participants, it all depends on you. We wish to have a dance production, followed by a ball. You will provide the music and the dancers. Mrs Moore, a former pupil who studied music, dance and writing will be writing and directing it. Mrs Summers will be choreographing and Mrs Elliot will be composing the music. You girls will provide the music and the dance. The art and embroidery students will be designing sets and making costumes. The other art class will be organising the ball, while the writing and drama girls will be narrating and acting. Since they can dance a little, they will be playing minor dance and major acting roles, but you girls will do all the dance. Does it appeal to you?'

She need not have asked that question. For the look on each and every one of their faces was pure delight. Their eyes sparkled as they contemplated such joy and privilege.

Elizabeth was ecstatic. She would naturally play a minor role because she had so little experience, but she would dance. And with a ball afterwards. How delightful. Her and Jane would be working together, and their aunt and uncle would be able to come and watch them. Her mind began to wander. She was on stage...

Before it had wandered very far, Mrs Virose's voice caught it and brought it swiftly back.

'Miss Darcy, your brother is to help co-ordinate and manage our event. The dancers especially will be working with him. I must go tell the other classes before tea, so I must leave you. But what a wonderful treat, girls!' She winked and walked out the room.

The moment she stepped through the door, all the girls began talking at once. The prospect of a production, accompanied by a ball, was simply too delightful. Everyone was talking simultaneously, and the noise was something else. This went on for about ten minutes when they all stopped shrieking and settled down. They needed to elect a co-ordinator to liase with Miss Darcy's brother. It was immediately decided that, even though she had only been at the Academy a month, Miss Bennet would be the best person to lead them. Before they even had time to decide who would do music and who would dance, it was teatime. They went chattering down the corridor o the sitting room, excitedly wondering whether the other girls were as enthusiastic.

As it turned out, they were. As soon as Mrs Virose left the music class, she went to the art class. They were to be her core workers, the ones who would make sure the event was a success. These girls were as overjoyed as the music girls were, and Mrs Virose went immediately to begin organising the London event of the year.

At teatime, all the girls met in the sitting room, and Jane went straight to find Elizabeth.

'Oh Lizzy, this is exactly what you have been hoping for. This production will make every eligible young man look to you, and maybe you will find your purpose now.'

'Yes, Jane. I have a feeling this IS exactly what I came here for. Possibly one of the directors. We must go home for dinner and tell Aunt Gardiner.'

Their aunt was just as ecstatic as them. In her heart of hearts, she knew that both of her nieces would find their men in this production, and all that surrounded it. She only hoped that Jane was not too timid, or Lizzy too brash, to miss it.

Chapter 8

[ I know the intermediate bit from Darcy's introduction to well into the play ]*is short, but I want to get into the main bit. Tamara

Within the week their production was beginning to vaguely resemble the beginnings of one, rather then the random shambles it has been before.
Jane was elected as costume and art director, and aside from her job as co-ordinator and liaison, Lizzy was given the main dance part, and had to dance three dances solo, and lead two others. Luckily, she was only in 4 out of 8 scenes, and so had time for other things as well.

Academic classes were left as they were, being as important as they are, but other classes were halved and so the girls had a rehearsal before lunch, and obviously all afternoon. They were working flat out, and barely had time to breathe. Jane and Elizabeth were at the Academy before breakfast most mornings, and till just before, or even staying for dinner most nights. Aside from these new activities, the girls still had their fortnightly dance, which all found a pleasure and a relief.

It was at one of those small dances that Elizabeth me Mr Darcy for the first time. He was accompanied by Mr Bingley. Mr Bingley did not sit for even one dance, and he even danced two sets with her sister. Mr Darcy was reported to have said to Mr Bingley, on his friend's persistent pushing to dance, that no one was suitable to dance with. When Bingley suggested Elizabeth, Darcy replied that she was 'not handsome enough to tempt me.' Elizabeth, overhearing this exchange, quickly concluded that he was a proud man, and that it would be extremely unpleasant to work with him, but she would have to. Watching Jane brought joy to her heart. She seemed taken with Bingley, as he was with her, and Elizabeth resolved to tell her aunt to invite him to dinner.

****************************************************************
Mrs Gardiner complied the very next evening. She immediately recognised that this was the man for Jane, and so invited him, and his friend Mr Darcy, to dinner. Dinner was pleasant. Elizabeth found herself seated next to Darcy, although they hardly said two words to each other all evening. Luckily, Jane's visitor was more satisfactory. Lizzy contented herself with visions of how the production was progressing, and so avoided the man entirely.

Proper rehearsals began the next day, and Elizabeth was glad of it, excepting the fact that Mr Darcy was to be constantly present for all the rest of the rehearsals. She did notice that Miss Bingley, who was weaving beautiful tapestries for certain backdrops, followed Mr Darcy everywhere, trying to attract his attention. He, however, was not paying her any attention, and she personally agreed totally with him.

When she did have to speak to Darcy, it was in the impertinent tone she always used with people she did not like. He did seem to notice this, and during lunch the following conversation took place between him and Bingley, who had come in to see if he could be of any assistance.

'Darcy old boy, why are you looking so often at Miss Eliza Bennet. I recall your saying after we were at dinner at their uncle that she was rude and hardly handsome, yet now your eyes are drawn to her frequently.'

'The reason, Bingley, is that I have found her eyes to be very fine.'

'Aaahhh, I see admiration in your countenance.'

'Don't be stupid, Bingley. She is still a country girl of inferior connections, and I will not admire her!'

Darcy, however, knew this to be a lie. He did admire Miss Elizabeth Bennet, not only for her fine eyes, but also for her intelligence and wit. She was infinitely superior to that pathetic Miss Bingley, no offence to his friend. He must just be careful not to let Georgiana suspect anything, because she was as sharp as a hawk for spotting such things.

Chapter 9

As the rehearsals went on for another month, Darcy found his admiration for Miss Bennet steadily growing, however he may have tried to curb it. He felt it was time for him to make his intentions known to her. He just didn't know how.

Meanwhile, the rehearsals were progressing nicely. With a month till ShowTime, everything was right on course.

Jane and Bingley were spending more and more time together, and Elizabeth delighted in it. Darcy, however much his better judgement told him this was wrong for both of them, did not say anything to Bingley, and let him go on his own merry way.

One evening, Elizabeth was talking casually to Georgiana as they always did before each of them returned home, when Georgiana raised the subject of her wishing to have a sister. She rambled on and on about wishing for her brother to get married, and how her ideal sister would be exactly like Elizabeth. Elizabeth had to really work hard to conceal the fact that she would very much like to be Georgiana's sister. Of late, she had found her thoughts more favourably bent towards Fitzwilliam Darcy (she had found out his first name). She was sure, though, that he held no affection of admiration for her. After all, she was still a simple country girl with no connections and little money. It was too much to hope that he had even noticed her. Maybe she could be friends with him. She was almost certain that her chances of being Georgiana's sister were slim to none.
That evening while sitting in his room in his townhouse, Darcy thought of the perfect means of hinting to Miss Elizabeth his intentions. He would write her a cryptic poem, and that way his own need to act would be satisfied, even if she did not know what it was about.

To Miss Elizabeth Bennet,

Like a cloud in the eye of the storm,
I find to you I am being drawn.
Your pull on me is like a gale strong,
And I find that for you I constantly long.

But I still stand and patiently wait,
For you to visit my home estate.
My princess, come dance and be seen,
In the land where you shall be queen.

Like the perfect diamond I shall give you,
My love is as eternal and true.
To you I would give every cent,
Just to have your heart here bent.

My brain tells me that I am terribly wrong,
But my heart proclaims it the sweetest song.
And eternal as the stars that so do shine,
I beseech you to be forever mine.

Your Secret Admirer.

He slowly read the poem through, and gently placed it in an envelope and sealed it. It was perfect. It told how his heart longed for her, and gave the smallest hint of his identity, but she would only guess if her mind were so inclined. If she responded to the poem, her affections were returned, if not, he must just be quiet and patiently wait for his opportunity. He kissed the envelope once, and walked down the hall to give it to his man to have delivered first thing in the morning.

Sure enough, the poem reached Miss Elizabeth Bennet as she was eating breakfast the next morning as the Academy. She decided not to open it here, but to wait till she had a few moments between rehearsals. As she glanced at the envelope before she put it away, she noticed what a fine hand the author had.

They were running the production through from beginning to end, and as she was only in the second scene, and did not have to dress up for this rehearsal, she had a few minutes to herself. She seized the opportunity to settle herself in a quiet corner and read her letter. She opened the envelope, and one single sheet of paper fell out. It was only written on one side, and she wondered who would bother to write and send a letter without a return address that was so short.

As she read the poem, the look on her face changed to one of extreme puzzlement and confusion. This man obviously admired her very much. From the actual hand and the beautiful words, he was a man of education. And his references to money and diamonds and his estate said he was wealthy. All the signs pointed to a gentleman. The man must have seen her recently. In fact, he must be working on the production with her in order to know she was the princess of dance. She abruptly stood up, completely forgetting about the rehearsal and the dance, and went to think about her letter, and possibly form a reply.

When she reached the sitting room 10 minutes later after having been stopped several times on her way there, she sat down and retrieved her letter from her sleeve. She pulled it out again, but after reading it through only once, she found her mind wandering, instead of trying to discover who this man was.

Her thoughts were again with her dream. She was flying over her land, watching protectively over her subjects. This time she could actually see the land. It was beautiful slightly wild and rocky terrain, but natural and enchanting. As she flew over towards her palace, she saw a beautiful, winding river snaking it's way all over the countryside. She could see fish swimming in it. She passed over magnificent forests and lush farms, full of cattle and sheep. She flew over fields full of ripening corn and golden wheat. As she neared her home, she saw a beautiful lake out front, just before the house, which was...

Just as she was about to view the house, Jane walked in. Elizabeth jumped up and ran over to Jane to show her the poem. On reading the poem, Jane agreed that it would have to be a gentleman of education and fortune who wrote it. She was impressed with the words and style of the piece, and she remarked on it. By now Elizabeth knew who she wished the letter to be from. She wished it were from Mr Darcy. But her sensible side told her it was not possible. A man who hardly spoke to her could not have such an admiration for her. No, as much as she may wish it, it was not true. She tucked the letter back in her sleeve, and vowed to forget about Fitzwilliam Darcy, because he was surely not interested in her, and she was just being silly.

Chapter 10

That Saturday was Elizabeth's birthday. She was now seventeen, a real young lady, and she was now officially 'out'. Even though the Academy treated all it's students as if they were out, she now officially was, and she was now at liberty to begin looking for a husband.

At three weeks till the show, she was now spending much of the day with Mr Darcy, and trying not to enjoy it too much. She had not forgotten about the poem, but she had put it, now fully memorised, at the back of her mind for access when she was alone to enjoy it. It still pushed to the front of her mind at strange times, such as when she was in the middle of her final pirouette, or during dinner at the Gardiners. Every now and then she caught Mr Darcy looking at her when she was not supposed to be noticing, and in her deepest heart of hearts, she hoped it was he who sent her the poem.

Darcy was also much enjoying every second he spent with Elizabeth. He tried not to look at her too often, or if he could not resist (a rather frequent occurrence) only when she would not notice. He hoped she had realised it was him who sent the poem, and but to be fair, it was very mysterious and he had not given her many clues.

Meanwhile, Bingley and Jane were together almost non-stop. He had volunteered to help with the sets, but only so he could spend more time with Miss Bennet. She was extremely glad of it, and basked in his attention. They spent many hours talking quietly while they organised, moved and rearranged sets.

Mrs Gardiner noticed all this. She was also offering any help she could, and whenever she was with her nieces, she observed them closely. As far as she could see, neither of the girls were quite aware how lucky they were. She noticed the affection between Elizabeth and Darcy, and even though she could see they were star-crosses, she vowed to intervene. They would eventually sort themselves out. As for Jane and Bingley, she felt an engagement was near. And on both accounts, she was right.

The following Saturday afternoon she invited Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy to tea. With the production in only a fortnight, she felt they all needed a break from their hectic schedules. After tea Mr Bingley asked Jane if she would like to go for a walk in the park, and she agreed. Both sensing what would come out of this walk, both Darcy and Elizabeth prevailed against Bingley's request that they come with, Elizabeth eventually coming up with the excuse that they were to play a game of chess. Jane and Bingley left.

Not having much else to do, Elizabeth and Darcy did decide to play a game of chess, albeit with Darcy playing with the two year Gardiner daughter, Emily, on his lap, and Elizabeth rocking the baby to sleep in her arms. Mr Gardiner, sitting with his wife at the opposite end of the room, remarked to her what wonderful parents they would make together. Mrs Gardiner just smiled.

Their game was rather unsophisticated, as it is a little difficult to play a good game of chess while looking after two small children. Darcy was impressed with her aptitude at what he considered a man's game, and this simply served to reinforce his opinion of her superior intelligence. As for Elizabeth, she was impressed with the way he played with Emily, and then rocked the baby to sleep so gently. That was what she wished her husband to one day do, and once again the poem came to her mind.

After an hour Bingley and Jane returned. From the glowing look on Jane's face, Elizabeth knew she was engaged. Just as Darcy knew the same thing from the stupid smile on Bingley's face. Elizabeth and Darcy looked at one another and their faces broke into wide grins, and they rushed off to congratulate the couple.

On seeing how stressed they were all becoming, and how much they all needed some motherly love and guidance, and on how she wished Bingley and Jane to be together very often, Mrs Gardiner decided it was time to look after them all a little. She insisted that Elizabeth and Jane be home for dinner every evening, and extended a standing invitation to Darcy and Bingley, which they both eagerly accepted.

In the evenings Jane and Bingley were left alone in the sitting room, for no one wished to disturb them, and so Elizabeth was left to entertain Darcy in Mr Gardiner's library. Neither of them had any problem with this, and they spent a week's worth of enjoyable evenings reading, playing chess or simply talking and basking in each other's company.

By Friday night, it was a week till the production and the ball. Elizabeth now knew the poem was from Darcy, but she was at a loss about what to do. One afternoon she had exhaustedly fallen asleep on the sofa, and she had the dream again. It was much shorter, only now she saw her prince and it was Darcy.

Her nerves were also becoming very jumpy, and Darcy spent the evenings telling her she would do wonderfully and just reassuring her. Although his words had little effect on her, Elizabeth found that just the sound of Darcy's voice had the power to calm her.

Darcy enjoyed his time with Elizabeth immensely. Just being near her was enough for him. He was very much looking forward to seeing her perform, because from what he had seen, she was an excellent dancer. He knew that this was just the stage for her to exhibit her talent - a refined production from an acclaimed ladies institution. Everybody who was anybody would be there, and he was sure that the eyes of every eligible young man would be on her that evening. This thought made his insides squirm with jealousy. He knew he had to right to such a privilege, for she was not his, but all the same...

Elizabeth began to speak excitedly of the ball that was to follow the production. The title of their production was 'The Dancing Princess', and it was about a girl who married the prince of a Winter Wonderland. The theme for the ball was to be a Winter Wonderland. Everything was to be pure white, with white satin bows at every seat and magnificent branches with clusters of tiny candles and miniature white roses at the tips of each twig. There were to be massive swaths of white silk and taffeta draped all over the ballroom, creating a sense of another world. The girls were to be dressed in pastel colours, with white roses in their hair and on their wrists.

Elizabeth did not describe her dress to Darcy. She knew it was simple yet exceptionally elegant, and she knew she would be the queen of the evening, but she wished to surprise him, to see his reaction.

Then she began to speak of a special dance she was to dedicate to Jane and Bingley. At the talk of dancing, Darcy realised that Elizabeth was not yet engaged for the first dances, and if he did not engage her, he probably would not have the opportunity to dance with her at all. He immediately tried to rally his courage to ask her.

As soon as she stopped speaking, he asked her. 'Miss Bennet, would you do me the honour of dancing the first set with me?'

Elizabeth's heart did a somersault at those words. A blush crept up her cheeks as she haltingly replied, 'W-with pleasure, sir.'

Needless to say, both spent the remainder of the evening thinking how fortunate they were, and talking general nonsense.

The thought of dancing with Mr Darcy at the ball was all that kept Elizabeth going for the next two days. Those two days before Show Time were very stressful and Elizabeth collapsed in bed each night wishing the performance, and of course, the ball, would just come. And before she even knew it, it did.

Chapter 11

It was the afternoon of the show, and Elizabeth was just going off to change when Mr Darcy accosted her in the hall. He seemed quite flustered, but that was nothing against how she looked. Wisps of hair were slipping out her loose bun, and her skirts were every which way. The look on her face was one of utter exasperation, as was the look on his. As she looked up from her list or one-hundred-and-one things to do, she spotted him not two meters away from her. Her face immediately relaxed into what could possibly be taken for a wan smile, and her shoulders loosened considerably. In his arms was a bouquet of eleven perfect white roses, with one single red rose poking up in the middle.

'Miss Bennet, I-I just thought I'd bring you these, for luck. I know how nervous you are for this performance, but I believe you will be perfect, and far outshine the rest.'

'Why, why thank you, Mr Darcy. To tell the truth, I ... I sincerely appreciate your good wishes. Heaven knows I need it!' She nearly said that she had been hoping terribly for such a gift from him, but she had stopped herself just in time.

'Oh, but E-Miss Bennet, you will be excellent, on your own merit entirely. I, I have been wanting to tell you this for quite some time, but...'

As he was about to make his confession of his love for her, Mrs Virose came marching down the hall, calling for Miss Bennet to please get on and go and dress.

Elizabeth gave Darcy and even more exasperated look, which he replied to with an encouraging wink and a smile. With renewed confidence, Elizabeth rushed off to go and ready herself for the play, and of course to have Jane fuss over her and make her feel even a little better.

Naturally Jane did fuss over her. She noticed the flowers in Elizabeth's arms, but did not comment for she knew who they were from - Bingley had been with Darcy when he had bought them, and Jane had an identical bunch except with peach instead of white roses, and one white in place of the red.

Jane gently helped Elizabeth into her long, flowing ivory silk gown and her ballet slippers. She fixed the cream roses in her dear Lizzy's hair and applied the makeup to her pale skin. The satin cape over her shoulders, and finally placed the delicate, thin silk ribbons in her hair, letting them fall over halfway down Lizzy's back.

Elizabeth stood in the middle of the room and did a pirouette. As she turned, her dress fanned gently out, showing her satin clad ankles; the ribbons fluttered softly behind her; and her cape swirled around her thighs and waist. She looked magnificent.

The two sisters sat quietly for a few moments, before there came a small not under the door that Miss Elizabeth Bennet should be backstage in 5 minutes and that Miss Jane Bennet was wanted by Mr Bingley in the front row.

Elizabeth stood up so that Jane could admire her one more time. Jane said quietly, 'Lizzy, you look lovely. Mr Darcy will surely be won. Go and dance.'

Elizabeth spoke no words, but the look in her eyes said everything.

The wait was sickening. Elizabeth had no Darcy to tease her, nor Jane to comfort her, and the wait before she would go on stage and surely make a fool of herself, was torture. She stood up, sat down, walked in circles, and even practised a few steps in an effort to calm herself, but to no avail. But at last the moment came. She stepped onto the stage, and began to dance.

Suddenly she knew this was it. The moment she had foreseen in her mind's eye the night of her first dream. She was the dancing princess, and she could see her prince watching her. He sat in the front row, enraptured by her beauty, and of course he grace. She swirled and twirled to the music, allowing her body to take over and her mind to take flight.

She did not have opportunity to leave the stage for the rest of the play, but as she stood unseen behind the curtain, she watched Darcy in the front row. He was playing with his fingernails and generally not watching the play, but as soon as she stepped on stage, his attention was caught. His eyes followed her every move, appreciating the perfect curves of her body and the way those wisps of hair danced gaily among the ribbons. Every time she stretched her arms above her, and he caught sight of her perfect form, he knew even more surely that she had to be his.

All the other dancers left the stage as she launched into her final dance of triumph. She felt the music in her very soul, as did he. She performed every move precisely and passionately, every fibre of her being dedicated to this dance. Her mind and heart beat in unison to the leaps of her body. She saw herself dancing once again across her kingdom. Her subjects waved gaily to her as they went about their work. As she approached her palace, she passed over a beautiful, tranquil lake, and she felt thin was a good omen for the inhabitants, and future inhabitants, of the house. She leapt into her final sequence, and as she landed with a flourish, to grand applause, she found herself directly in front of her prince, gazing into his admiring, love filled eyes. And with absolute certainty, Elizabeth knew that it was not a dream - it was her perfect reality.

Three quarters of an hour later, Elizabeth and Jane walked slowly towards the ballroom. Jane was dressed in a gown of magnificent sky blue silk, the exact shade of her eyes. She looked like a fairy. Elizabeth had changed into a gown of emerald coloured satiny material, with a beautiful chiffon bow and skirt, and chiffon twined in her half-up hair, with dark brown curls cascading over the material. She looked like a true princess.

As they walked into the ballroom, they were greeted by Bingley and Darcy, who were waiting for them. Bingley and Jane immediately linked arms and walked off, naturally to keep and eye on the others, but from a distance.

Elizabeth stepped up to Darcy with her head turned slightly down to hide the blush that had crept up her cheeks. As her eyes were downwards, she could not see the faint blush that appeared on his cheeks as well, although I am sure that the fact would not have made her feel any better at all.

Staring very hard at his lapel, she mumbled 'Thank you sir for the roses. I-They was much appreciated.'

Staring just as intently at the top of her head, vaguely noting how exquisite her curls looked dressed in that fashion, and wondering how her hair would look down, he replied 'Not at all, Miss Bennet. It was my pleasure.'

At that moment, the music for the first dance began. Elizabeth looked up, and found her eyes caught in his warm gaze. Darcy lifted his hand in invitation and inquired if he could claim the honour, which she had promised him, of the first dance? Still held in his gaze, she replied, rather breathlessly, 'why certainly.'

As they walked to the dance floor, they were followed by many envious male and female stares. All the men wondered how Darcy had got to her so quickly, when the rest of them had not even seen her at the ball yet, while the women jealously watched Darcy's first choice.

Georgiana, who was not nearly as oblivious as everyone thought, watched her brother and her friend, and looked over to Jane, who winked. Both of them had been hoping that this night would be the night that Darcy and Elizabeth sorted themselves out, and by all appearances, it would be.

As it turned out, Darcy was an exceptional dancer. The pair of them was certainly a sight to behold. His strong, tall form alongside her trim, petite one, gliding along to the music as if they had been born to do just that, his every move complimenting hers. Their dance was completely united, two bodies moving in unison, their hearts beating in time. Jane and Bingley, dancing in the same set as them, remarked to one another how perfectly suited they were, while Miss Bingley sat and glared daggers.

As they began to dance, both Darcy and Elizabeth began to feel the union. Both felt how absolutely right and perfect this was, and they basked in each other's reflected glows. By the end of the first dance, Elizabeth was pressed right up against Darcy, simply enjoying being near him, wishing this would last forever. In her delightful distracted state, she began having visions of meeting her prince in the entrance to their palace, dancing in the hall. She felt so free, so whole. She never wanted to leave him.

The second dance was a waltz, and our fair couple very quickly warmed to it. As they danced round the room, Darcy began to whisper in Elizabeth's ear. Before she even registered the words, she felt his delightful warm breath in her ear.

'Miss Bennet, I have a confession to make.'

As she did a graceful turn, she replied 'Now what would that be, sir?'

Without any preamble, Darcy began his impromptu little speech. 'Miss, Bennet, I respect you very much, and I value your sweet friendship (pause as they changed directions), but I fear it is not enough. I-I...'

Darcy broke off as the dance came to its sweet end. Seeing that this was what she had been desperately waiting and praying for, Elizabeth suggested 'Shall we continue this conversation by the fountain?' Darcy did not trust his voice, and so just nodded.

Once outside, they sat on a bench beside a tinkling fountain. As they say, Elizabeth could see, and surprisingly enough, noticed, the water glimmering in the moonlight. Again, Darcy began his speech, this time having had a little time to think.

'Miss, Bennet, as I said, I dearly value your friendship, but I wish for more. I have admired you deeply, even loved you, for quite some time. I have seen you so often, at your school and at your aunt and uncle that I could not but notice you. Before long, simple notice, admittedly grudging at first, became respect, and from respect it was but a short jump to admiration, and admiration lead to love. I, I need to know if you feel the same way.'

Elizabeth felt so overwhelmed that she hesitated for a moment before answering. In that single moment, Darcy's heart felt every emotion known to man. Relief at finally having spoken, joy at the thought of her accepting, despair when she took so long to reply, and a mixture of hope and dread and she opened her mouth to answer, with much else besides.

'Sir, Mr Darcy, I am extremely gratified by your confession, for I find that I have a very similar one to make. I also simply noted, then respected, and then loved and admired you. When we danced tonight, my heart was absolved of all doubts, and my mind, heart and soul told me this was true. Did you not feel it (Darcy nodded), the way each of our movements were perfectly synchronised and in harmony? I used to think it was adream, but now I know it is the sweetest reality.'

After she said this, Darcy took her hand and they sat there in silence for a few moments, each contemplating their very superior fortune at finding such a perfect soul mate, and how very lucky they both were.

The orchestra began another slower, very refined waltz, and Elizabeth stood up and pulled Darcy up too, saying they must dance this one. When they walked in, many eyes noted the linked eyes, and the fact that this was the second set in a row they were dancing together.

For a few moments they danced in comfortable silence. Elizabeth was thinking again of her dream, the very first and then all the subsequent dreams, meditating on the fact that dreams were indeed an indication of reality. Before she knew it, she was dancing across the sky with her prince again. Her visions were broken by Darcy's voice,

'Miss Bennet, Elizabeth if I may, I said earlier that it was not enough for me just to have your friendship. You have said you will give me your love, but I confess that is still not enough for me. The one thing you have not given me the thing which I covet most, is your hand. Miss Elizabeth Bennet, I humbly request of you to bestow on me your hand, and consent to become my wife.' He said all this quietly, simply, as if he were merely verbalising something that had been a fact all evening.

This time, there was no hesitating, no long introduction, just the single, joyous word, 'Yes.' This was also stated simply, and just as matter-of-factly, but both of their hearts soared at the word. Elizabeth looked up, her heart, her soul and her future reflected in Darcy's eyes, and indeed his in hers.

As they quietly danced the next dance, Elizabeth's dream was completed, well almost. As she gazed into her fiancé's eyes, she saw the rest of her dream. She was twirling gracefully in the sky, flying over her Kingdom. All her loyal subjects were smiling even more joyfully, and waving gently, encouragingly at her. As she flew over he placid lake in front of her palace, she spotted her prince with arms wide open (as she thought this, she, as part of the dance, separated momentarily from Darcy). As she glided elegantly back into his arms, she felt a sense of wholeness and completion, unlike she had ever felt before. Yes, she was indeed a Dancing Princess, and she had finally met her Prince.

Finis.

---