Rowdy neighed, chains broke, and Jade yelled in delight. Rowdy, Jade had learned had a mind of his own, and there was no stopping him. Jade searched through the dust as they flew through the valley for any camps of towns, they were alone…and free. She had never felt so exhilarated as the wind raced past her, and the birds chirped encouragement on her way and Rowdy’s main blew like wild fire. She reached for his orange main and bridle and slowed him down until he came to a walk. She was hungry and thirsty, and she could tell he was too from the sweat and the time it had been since they both had something like it. A streams water could be heard nearby so Rowdy trotted over there and Jade carefully went on the rocks and took a drink. She reached in the saddlebags and with luck she once again found a few supplies…but no money.

“Food will have to be it for now Rowdy, what are we going to do? Go back to the other town? That will look strange…and besides momma did not want anyone to know about Dad’s debt…though I am sure she would not be mad if I told the sheriff. But…there is so little to go on…” Jade sat on the rock by the water and buried her face in her dress, Rowdy went over and nudged her with his nose. “You are the best horse, Rowdy, I love you boy.” He seemed to reply, ‘I love you too’ but she knew it was impossible or was it impossible for him to feel it? “Well, is it boy?” Jade laughed at his confused face. “I am going to take my families honor and make sure it stays safe-no one shall know. Besides, I can handle finding mother and telling her, and I know she will be confident in what to do. Now, for father…oh, I love him Rowdy! But, he got us in this mess and left us: he is not to be trusted.” Rowdy shook his main. “Humph…”

That is where they slept for the night under the stars as the wind whistled over them and the stream went over the pebbles.