I wanted to be like you
I wanted everything
So I tried to be like you
And I got swept away
I didn't know that it was so cold and
You needed someone To show you the way
So I took your hand and we figured out that
When the tide comes I'd take you away
If you want to
I can save you
I can take you away from here
So lonely inside
So busy out there
And all you wanted
Was somebody who cares
Michelle Branch, Spirit Room
Hey, I just want to say thank you to everyone who reviewed, I was so totally flattered!!! Keep reviewing because I love reviews!!!Haha, now onto the story!!
Chapter 2:
"I do think this assignment will be good fer ye Alanna, it's time you got away from the rogue, and experience some time with thee young folk" George's hazel eyes were serious as he looked down upon the short red haired figure standing in his doorway. As much as he would miss her, he was sure she needed to get away from the killings, and the challenges. She had seen what many nobles and thieves might never experience, and it had taken its toll on her. What about that brother whom had mistaken her for dead? Yes, the palace was where she would go!
"But George, I can't just leave like this! And so many things could go terribly wrong! What if Thom were to see through my disguise, I haven't changed that much in six years even with a different hair and eye color. I'm not a noble anymore, although those lessons your mother gave me would come in handy, but still! I could never pull it off!" Alanna's eyes gave away the hidden emotions which lay inside, though her mouth was set in a stubborn line.
"Since when have you lacked self confidence, lass? I can manage the rogue for however long it may take, and being one of Sir Myles relations no one will guess a thing. You will pass as a noble, your voice is as educated as any nobles, and you know all the court manners. You disguised as a knight in the Galla court, I'm sure you can do the same in Tortall as a girl."
Alanna looked up into George's face, into his twinkling hazel eyes, at the smile that played on the edge of his lips, just waiting to break out in full. She realized the mistake as he gazed intensely into her violet eyes, his gaze never wavering. His hand reached to stroke her cheek, the other encircling her waist so she couldn't pull away. Heat steadily rose in her face and she was sure it matched her hair.
"Don't forget lass, I'll be waiting for your return, no matter what happens, Don't ever forget." His uneducated voice was just below a whisper, sending a shiver up Alanna's spine. In the next moment it was over, the passionate kiss broke as George pulled away, taking his hands off her.
Alanna stumbled backwards, afraid of this new affection George was showing her. Bumping into the door frame she hurriedly exclaimed, " I must see to packing my weapons, Myles wants my final decision tomorrow, and then it's off to the palace. I'll come see you before I leave, I promise."
Her lips tingled as she left the room, hastily pulling out the key to her chamber. This was not the first time George had expressed his feelings to her, but she wasn't sure how she was supposed to react to his touch. She'd known him ever since she was twelve, as she was starting to build her reputation as a fighter.
George was her closest friend, and she loved him just as dearly as she loved Thom, but could she ever be more than just friends with him? It was hard to imagine, but he had obviously been thinking hard about his feelings, since she'd seen it in his eyes many a time... It was all so confusing, and she wished she were a boy, and didn't have to think about this, considering she would have to wear dresses for the next couple of months, acting like a 'proper young lady,' but seeing Thom would all be worth it. Even if he wouldn't know who she was, she could observe just like she was taught.
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The plump man behind the desk let out a sigh. He wasn't sure if this was a good idea anymore, letting Alanna enter the palace. Of course she had been trained for assignments like this, but he would kill himself if something happened to get her caught. No one knew he worked with the rogue and if she was caught, there would be a lot of explaining to do. The girl with the copper locks and piercing violet eyes was like a daughter to him, and she meant more than words could describe.
There was also the matter of Thom, squire to Sir Gareth of Naxen, the prince's cousin. The boy was certainly moody, going into rages and then just as fast resigning into silence. The old man was sure it had something to do with his sister, and as Alanna had told him once before, it was because he wouldn't let her switch places with him. It might do them both worlds of good, Thom would not spoil the plan if he ever found out the truth about Alanna. It might also cause her more pain than hapiness...
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Alanna observed the dress she wore in disgust. The low cut green silk was supposed to match her now green eyes, and accent the silky black locks, but it just made her want to rip the article of clothing off and put on the breeches she was so accustomed to. She was starting to have her doubts about this mission, she was no court lady, and she couldn't protect anyone in a dress.
The carriage she sat in, bumped along the road, finally coming to a halt, in front of the grand palace. She'd been here twice, once with George, killing a band of thieves who planned an attack on the king, and once to find a noble who owed them a debt. Both times in disguise as lowly thieves, on orders from the king of the rogue.
A hand opened the door, and offered help. Alanna was about to reply sarcastically that she had no need for help, but caught herself, trying not to forget the point of the mission.
Myles stood outside of the carriage, smiling up at her. She scowled inside, but as planned ran up to him and hugged him, saying. "Uncle, uncle! It's been so long, I've missed you so!"
For the first time she noticed two other large boys, who she recognized immediately as the prince and Gareth of Naxen. She curtsied to both of them, as required, and noticed the prince's sapphire eyes studying hers. Heat rose in her face, and he grinned down at her.
" A pleasure, Lady Alane," Gary, as he asked her to call him replied easily, as the words slid out. Alane had been the name Myles had chosen, since she couldn't go as Alanna.
"Thom! Come from behind that carriage and meet Myle's niece." Jonathon called out, to Alanna he said. "He's a bit shy still, but I'm sure he'll get over it. He's a fear of the ladies."
A tuft of red hair came reluctantly from out from behind the carriage, Thom not meeting the new girl's eyes, but bowing as required. Maybe if he'd glanced up, he would have seen the hurt, looking out from behind those green eyes with the purple specks.
Sigh I usually write a little better than this, but it's late and I'm ready for bed. It's horrible, so tell me about it in your reviews. I can handle the truth! I promise there'll be some action in the next chapter!!! Jon's gonna get poisoned!!! Haha, what do ya think about that!? I also need a beta, so if anyone can help me out, say so in your reviews!!!