CHAPTER NINE
Horse's Bring People Together

Alanna decided to get out of the restricting confines of Pirate Swoop's stone walls and out
into the open spaces that awaited her just out side the thick wooden door. She made her way swiftly
to the stables and efficiently saddled her beautiful, but aging horse Moonlight. At a steady pace and
with sure footsteps, woman and horse made their way out of Pirates Swoop and away from the stress
of sturdy walls blocking her free spirit from soaring free as she so desired. Alanna didn't know where
they were headed, but that didn't matter, they were at will to go anywhere they pleased. The whole
world was before them and that was an exhilarating feeling, that Alanna wouldn't give up for anyone
but George. Every so often, Alanna would pause to enjoy the sweet sent of the yellow rose. She
still kept the note; Alanna was a little ashamed to admit it, but she had tucked the folded parchment
inside her breastband so it was close to her heart. The sensible part of her told her this was a strange
thing to do; the part of her that was smitten with the king of thieves told her this was the perfect place
for such a darling sentiment.

After about half an hour's worth of riding, Alanna saw the shadow of movement in the trees
surrounding her. Stealthily Alanna reached for her sword and realized she had forgotten it in her haste
to leave the smothering room. Quickly Alanna reached inside her right boot and pulled out a very small
but deadly sharp dagger. There was no way she would be caught off guard. Alanna was just surprised
that someone would try to threaten her life so close to the Swoop. She repositioned herself in the
saddle and prepared for anything. Well almost anything, because she was stunned when George burst
out of the trees and galloped towards her. He hastily lifted her f up off of Moonlight and placed her
before him in his saddle with great skill. Then George slowed his pace and took hold of Moonlight's
reins so the horse would walk along side them.

"Now that I've got ye're attention," George said softly. "Let's talk."

Alanna turned and peered into George's loving eyes. "Thank's for the rose and note."
She said kissing him lightly on the cheek.

"Ye're welcome." George smiled. "I'm sorry for what I said this morning."

Alanna scowled. "What?" She asked confused.

"I'm sorry for what I said earlier, I didn't really mean it." George repeated.

Alanna was still lost. "What did you say?"

George started to laugh. "Ye don't even remember?"

"Not really. I've had a lot on my mind. What did you say?"

"I'm not telling," George said slyly. "Ye'll get mad at me again."

"No I wont." Alanna promised. "Tell me."

George sighed. "I said I tamed meself a lioness."

Alanna blew up. "You said that! George!" Alanna's face spread into a vast grin. " I'm just
kidding. I love you."

George shook his head with a smile. Then he turned and led the horses towards the trees.
"What are you doing?" Alanna demanded. "Where are we going?"

"We need privacy." George expalined.

"Privacy? We're alone. For what?" She questioned.

"Guess." He said with a smirk. Once they were in the shelter of the trees, George
dismounted. Then he lifted Alanna down next to him crushing he against his strong chest. She tilted
her head and waited for his lips. (A/N: have ya ever met two more 'frisky' people?)(and if you think
this sucks sorry. It's my first FanFic so...review and tell me I don't suck as bad as I think I do.
That would be greatly appreciate. Oh and if you have any suggestions, they would be even more
valued. Lady Daffodil *~*)