the_lioness | (no subject)

(no subject)

*The door to Alanna's bedchamber slams shut.*

Mithros, I've had it with these idiots.

*At some point in the future, Alanna will remember that she likes Duke Baird. Now is not that time. Face red, she throws the covers off and slowly, carefully, climbs out of bed. She doesn't push herself too hard, but the effort is clearly written across her face. With some difficulty, she bends down and picks up her sword, opens the balcony doors and moves outside. She closes her eyes and feels the wind on her face, imagining that this is all just a bad dream. Sounds of swordplay drift up from the practice yards. Listening, she wonders yet again why her Gift won't work and considers Thom's questions.*

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Jon reaches out and takes her hand, giving it a tight squeeze.

"I do. And whatever you need of me in this, you have it." He looks up at Adam and nods to him.

*Adam nods back at Jon and looks at Alanna.*

And you know that you've always got whatever you need from me.

I've asked a few favors of George. *Her lips curve into a tight smile.* If he finds what I think we need, I would like either of you to deliver the letter to Bernard... and a few items to Thom.

*She squeezes both their hands and lets go, wobbling slightly. Moving forward, she starts down the stairs.*

Right now, I need to see my horse.

Jon makes a slight face at the mention of Thom's name, but not so either of them can see.

"I know she's missed you. She keeps biting the grooms when they come in and they are not you." He grins.

*Adam doesn't say anything about the wobble, just reaches out, in case she needs a hand. For all his worry, it's reassuring to see her about like this.*

*Several stairs down, she takes it and looks at him. Quietly,* How does that sound?

I think it's more a matter of the grooms not spoiling her with apples, as I do.

*Determined, she presses on. Soon they are downstairs and not far from the courtyard and stables. She chews nervously on her lip.*

Jon grins, then looks closely at her.

"How are you doing? Are you sure you can make it - and be honest." He fixes her with a stare.

*Adam squeezes Alanna's hand - hard, this time - and nods.*

It sounds like what you need to do.

*Looking up at Jon-*

She'll make it.

*She gives Adam a silly smile and nods firmly. It makes her head swim a little, so she looks away.*

Aye, I will. Returning might be difficult, but you've no reservations about carting your champion around, do you?

*Finally, they walk outside and into the stable. Intent on her destination, she hurries forward and smiles with relief when Moonlight whinnies in welcome.*

There's my girl.

"None whatsoever. As long as no one sees us, that is."

Jon grins as Alanna drapes herself around Moonlight's neck, partly hanging on to her for support, but Jon chooses to ignore that.

He rolls his eyes at Adam. "She spoils her animals. Please tell me she hasn't completely ruined Mithros."

I'd like to be able to tell you that, Jon.

*Needless to say, he doesn't.*

I've done no such thing. He's healthy and happy, if a bit used to his apples.

*Leaning on her mare, she smiles mischievously.*

It occurs to me that perhaps Adam should have a horse.

Jon brightens at this and turns to Adam. "Do you ride? I know that I could find a perfect mount for you."

I-

*Adam stutters, a bit, and lowers his head.*

Only a bit. Alanna taught me.

Aye, I did, and had a grand time doing so. Don't let him fool you, Jon. He's quite good.

*Content to lapse into silence for a moment, she pets Moonlight's neck and takes a deep breath.*

All right, I think I should probably go in.

Jon exchanges a worried look with Adam.

"Can you walk or do you need us to carry you?"

*Regardless of what Alanna may or may not say about having her king carry her back, he knows how stubborn she can be, and how it would look. Lowering his voice, he wraps his arms around her.*

I'll get her back.

*Sighing, she turns slightly and moves from hugging Moonlight to hugging Adam.*

I'll get myself back. I just might lean heavily on you on the way. *She smiles sadly.*

Thank you both. I'm sorry -

As soon as I have what I need I will send word.

Jon steps back slightly, giving them space.

"I'll let you two go ahead. I need to check on a few things here anyway."

He smiles at Alanna. "Remember, whatever you need me to do..."

*Hugging Alanna tight - only only supporting her a little - he smiles at Jon.*

Thanks.

I'm fairly certain I'm meant to be saying that to you. But thank you.

*Pulling back, she kisses Adam's cheek and loops her arm around his.*

Farewell for now, Moonlight. I'll visit again soon. That's a promise.

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