Port Royal, Jamaica

['Bastian Devareaux]

Rising, Dauphin move to carriage door; repositioning chapeau before exiting to terra below. Extending a hand, Charge was brought down from well appointed cage. Not quick to release, he watched her intently from the darkness of wide brim's umbrella.

"Remember my words, Petit. I deeply advise caution in your workings..."

Retrieving his hand, Sabastian stepped back a pace.

[Nelly Greene]

Vizard was lowered slightly. Hazel eyes, now vexed, peered brightly over its edge.

"Your concern is much appreciated Monsieur," Nelly said. "But I think you underestimate such wives. Dangerous they may be when stirred but old habits are hard to break with them. This is one battle, if I am forced to fight, I shall gladly do so and as long as he is happy in the end, it does not matter really if she or I win. Bonsoir Monsieur," she said adding curtsy, then, not back into her house did she go but walking away from home she disappeared into the night.

[Aurore Devareaux]

She clung in some desperation to the comfort which eluded her as many a fabled beast. Tears had run their course to drought, absorbed to full capacity withing the linen that she burried her face in so deeply now. There was some solace given with familiar encompasment, familiar scent...but it was cheap numbing to the angst which plagued her soul.

Frenchman held her as so often in the past when things had gone awry and the nearness he so craved and so often currently acted more curse than blessing; adding vinigar to already raw emotions. At smallish inclination to draw away, Christophe lessened hold and kept eyes focused on far wall.

Suddering breath teased the chamber and she tried to gain his center. "What is being said?" Came ghostly query. Bella paused in current task at the words, then quickly returned to intents.

"Murder...." Came dispondant reply.

"But...."Another shudder of air was taken in. "It cannot be true...I..."

"It is what is said."

Aurore's expression reflected the turmoil brewing within and she moved to bed's edge suddenly, looking about wildly. "I must go to them and inform them of their error...There can be no truth in this!"

Gaining her feet with quick render, soul's windows darted the surround in search of something more befiting the outer world, but such was not of wise choice and body rebeled mind's command. Thief's reflex caught her sway and lifted gently; two count stride returning her to worn ticking.

Weak struggle tried counter whim and found no success, large tears welled once more.

Christophe sat on bed's edge, eyes far away, "There is little that can be done, the options few. This is not an area in which we have overmuch sway."

"There is always a way, Tristan. And I refuse to think otherwise and will not." She grew silent for the passing of minutes, then looked to longtime companion with determined fire dancing expressive pools.

"Ou est Devon?"

[Cheeky Actress]

Slowly Lilly walked down the shadow-drenched corridor. The torch cast long shadows as Lilly, Tess and two guards made their way to the main entrance of the prison. Lilly’s mind began to race. Why in heaven’s name would Tess St. Claire wish to help her? It was obvious that the two of them did not care for each other. Neither of them had anything in common, apart from Captain Sterling, that is; and even with this, there wasn’t much in common.

Tess glanced back over her shoulder. “I know that look.” She whispered to Lilly. “Fear not, I have asked for clemency regarding your imprisonment and by grand luck, we have been asked to take audience with the officer of the gate and his superior officer. All I ask is that you sit and say nothing until I say so.” Lilly was about to cross words with Tess, but she bit her tongue and gave her a hateful look. “Now, try not to look so glum, Lilly. Sulking so does not become you. You would be very pretty if you wouldn’t scowl so oft’n.”

Tess stood in front of the main chamber doors as she waited for the guards to open them. “Now, be a good girl and if everything goes as plan, you’ll get to see your beloved Captain Sterling.” Lilly stood there stunned as the doors open to the main chamber.

[Nimrod Pinon]

Pinon finally left the prison. The skies had not yet broken down into shades of gray and for a few hours more he would easily blend in with the darkness that enveloped him. With Sterling tucked away some place even Pinon could appreciate, the tall, dark man had finally felt some comfort in being able to turn his back on the prison of Marshallsea. A drink and a meal was what he needed most now. With the coming dawn some establishments would already have staff hard at work preparing for the coming throng of people heading off to start another day of their all too tedious lives.

There was one place in the port he had not yet had the opportunity to try. He made his way to McDonough’s, his appetite urging him to make haste. Once it was appeased, he would see that the trial was pushed forward as best he could. Little did Pinon realize that with the destruction of the Marshallsea guardhouse certain papers had ceased to exist, and as far as everyone was concerned, if they no longer existed neither did the prisoners they corresponded to.

['Bastian Devareaux]

Vizard was lowered slightly. Hazel eyes, now vexed, peered brightly over its edge.

"Your concern is much appreciated Monsieur," Nelly said. "But I think you underestimate such wives.  Dangerous they may be when stirred but old habits are hard to break with them.  This is one battle, if I am forced to fight, I shall gladly do so and as long as he is happy in the end, it does not matter really if she or I win.  Bonsoir Monsieur," she said adding curtsy, then, not back into her house did she go but walking away from home she disappeared into the night.

Beggar Prince was not quick to regain seating within private coach. Leaning casually against its' ink hued side; he watched her progress away until darkness shrouded petit form and hid it from view. A mischievous smile played face unconsciously as soon light footstep faded, as well. With deep inhalation of humid night's air offering, he decided forego of elegant cage to take perch on driver's seat. No wish was given for shelter against the late hour's encompasment and he desired relish of the scents, sights and sounds without hinder.

Jullian Abercrombe gave nod of appreciation to la fille's existance, readjusting his hold on equine tethers while thoughts of less than puritan nature rattled mental confines. Paired horsepower shook harness confine in unison, ears flicking back and forth to the Port's symphony of the evening. Word was given, at long last, and team was urged forward to appointed destination.

[Nelly Greene]

She continued walking, quickening her pace when once she was well past her normal haunts. Continuing on she finally came to the small but well made house of an old lover. She made her way to the rear door and knocked gently at first, then more urgently.

As door was finally cracked, tired eyes, still blinking themselves awake, peeked outward. Then door opened fully and warm smile widened on sleepy expression.

"Mistress Greene! Well, as I live and breath! Come in lass, come in!"

Nelly gathered her skirts in hand and glided up the back stairs to enter the home.

"Thank you Greer," she whispered, offering a smile of her own.

"My goodness Mistress, whatever brings you out at such an hour?" Greer asked.

"Is Major Conner available?" she asked, her smile fading, chased away by expression filled with worry. "I must ask him something very important."

['Bastian Devareaux]

Carriage drew up, comming to halt near McDonough’s rear entrance. Nimbly leaving driver's seat, Sabastian gave veiled survey of proximity then continued to portal. The passage of time after soliel retreat had been very little in means of satisfaction. What he desired now was familliar back table and quiet...a conjuring of spirits would not be something to be denied as capper.

Navigating to desired local, flirtatious greeting was made by maid bearing tankards; readily received and returned in kind. Seating captured, chair was leaned a tad backwards and balanced with practiced care while note was made of those in Common's keeping. As if by djinn's nod, tankard arrived on wooden surface afore him and banter was traded with bliss' deliverer.

[Nimrod Pinon]

Pinon entered McDonough’s and a took seat closest to front door. Meal was ordered with down payment of gold coin to hasten its production and delivery. Ale was quickly polished off and second tankard was ordered, then contents of purse were considered. He had well paid off the Keeper of Marshallsea not only with cash but with warnings that the man’s very life was as good as forfeit if anyone was able to communicate with the prison’s latest addition. Guards would be next after visit to a certain someone come sun up… with the mere mention of the right name, Pinon, himself would hand pick those that would be responsible for keeping Sterling under lock and key. He sat back in his chair as steaming plate was placed before him. All these tasks to accomplish were purely just for guarantees and not truly needed once evidence was placed before the court. Pinon laughed to himself. After all the justice system of the Crown, rarely smiled down upon the poor sod who stood in the dock.

Pinon looked up as Devareaux entered McDonough’s and pulse increased in pace. Greedy nature tried to overstep its bounds, to take Sterling’s brother-in-law as well would make the game more interesting, but, he was nothing. And Pinon did not waste his time on nothing.

['Bastian Devareaux]

Something struck a chord on instinctual levels; something that vibrated relentless as tuning fork put to practice. Dark eyes narrowed and gave veiled perusal of the area; liting from one form to another. Tankard was given slow draught as hackles began to raise with recognition. Spirit keeper was placed aside as peripheral caught maid unladden, and with quick movement, chair was righted and lass brought to lap. She fussed playfully, but not with much protest; her form used as a blind to those near and further. Wiggle came to calm as silkened words were whispered to her hearing. Dauphin measured dark clad Other carefully from over the shoulder of chosen camoflage....

Sleeping Hounds fondled with more attentiveness than soft flesh banquet.

[Nimrod Pinon]

Meal was enjoyed and Pinon decided first time gracing McDonough's was well worth his time. As sky began to smudge away the darkness, Pinon took his leave and decided a few hours sleep would do him well. Last of the ale was downed, bill paid, yet no second look was bothered with the Devareaux that still lingered with lovely lass. He left, passing Devareaux's table, knowing well the other's interest.

['Bastian Devareaux]

Close observation from tossle of legnthy mane was given to the Other's approach and passing. Measure was taken with great care, left hand moving incriments to close on smooth of Hound's tail. Much could be summerized by a man's motion and carriage; much was cataloged with percise notation. Shade made way past...Now was not the time for ill conceived notions.

Fate awarded those who played their cards with patience.

[Nelly Greene]

Delicate hand was grasped and held tightly as Nelly Greene was escorted into small study.

"I have missed you Nelly," Conner whispered.

"It is better this way. You know that as well as I. Are you not happy with your new fiance`?" she smiled as she lowered herself to settee.

Conner digested her words and, instead of taking his place next to her, chair was summoned from Greer and he sat down nearer the hearth.

"I am very happy," Conner said with a chuckle. "But we did have some wonderful times together. I truly do miss you," he stated again and gave her hand a small squeeze.

"And I have missed you as well Mark and I am so very glad that we have remained ... friends."

Wry face was made by officer at current term of endearment and then smile resumed its former place. "I am glad as well but enough, surely you have not come out at this hour to reminisce about times past. What troubles you Nelly?"

[Silkie McDonough]

Silkie was pleased with the profits for the night. There were so many customers in fact she had to wake Nora for assistance. Now the lass sat on the lap of a patron. Well for now, the girl earned a rest and knew how best to earn her coin but there was a line and Silkie wanted to be sure that Nora knew better than to cross while working at her inn. There were places for that sort of activity and this was not one of them.

Hamish returned with news some hours after he had left. He was a good lad who somehow managed to know everything that happened on the streets and alleys of Port Royal without ever letting trouble find him. The explosion heard earlier had indeed happened at the prison. It was suspected that it was a failed attempt to free a prisoner, a man by the name of Sterling. The name tugged at Silkie's memory. He was reported to be a captain and a pirate. Pirate! Silkie chuckled to herself as she took linen to table top and wiped away the liquid that had been spilled. Pirate. She knew the term well. It was all simply a matter of whose signature was on ones papers and who they were being presented too. Sterling, again she pondered the name. Did she somehow know the man?

Wiping her hands on her apron she chatted to one of the patrons and kept one eye on Nora. The previous owner had said that Nora was an excellent worker and good lass. Silkie wanted to be sure the lass kept the lad whose lap she occupied in check. If the mans hand found its way round the lass too easily Silkie may need to have a talk with the girl.

[Cheeky Actress]

As Lilly entered the room, she found that the debris from the bombing had been cleared away along with the broken furniture. Now the room looked sparse, including the expressions on the faces of the two officers who sat and waited to take audience with her and Lady Tess St. Claire. An uncomfortable feeling came over her as the two of them whispered between themselves until the older officer cleared his throat.

“Come forward Mistress.” He said beckoning her with his hand. “I understand that you plead clemency for your crime of .” “Crime? But I am…” A quick hushing noise came from Tess as she quickly shot Lilly a look. “What she means to say, Commander Sloakcom, “Is it was not a crime against law that made her do what she did, but a crime of passion.”

The two men looked baffled at each other. The older officer just rolled his eyes. “Yes, very well, “ He said pulling paperwork from a book. “It has been discovered that the blast that occurred earlier this night was not of your doing, Mistress – yet, we do believe that you may know who was behind it? Two cells were destroyed and the prisoner has escaped!

“Captain Sterling?!” blurted out Mistress Lilly. “Whom?!” Asked the Commander Sloakcom as he stared back at his officer in charge. “A murder, Sir. He was brought in to our jail just recently. “Well, then…find me his paperwork. Damn it all! Hate not being kept up on such details!” “Sorry, sir” said the officer of the Gate.

“If you please, Sir.” Tess said drawing attentions back to herself. “Mistress McKinney begs audience with Captain Sterling.”

“Does she now?” Again, the Commander interjected with eyebrows raised. “And why in God’s name should we let a pretty thing such as she take up audience with a murder?”

“Because you have the wrong man, Commander. The murderer who killed the overseer is one Lewis Hutchinson!”

[Tess St. Claire]

A wave of perspiration quickly gathered at Tess’ forehead and throat. She could still hear his name echo against the walls of the almost vacant hall. Her mind quickly raced back to images of Lewis and her on the docks. His face pale as a ghost, as he watched his ship, the Archangel, take leave without him. It was then he went somewhat mad. “What trick is this?” He shouted as the guards began to take to the street. A large crowd now gathered at one of the inns and the sounds of a large fight broke out.

“Murder!,” was shouted above the din of the crowd. The very words sent him into a panic. In some uncontrollable fit of fear, Lewis ran towards the docks and began to scream at the departing ship. Tess’ heart sunk for a moment. She knew that his mind was broken and fear was the only thing her was clinging to.

She quickly ran after him and tried to reason with him. “No one knows, but me!” She yelled back at him, trying desperately to calm him. “You have nothing to fear, cousin!”

It was then he stopped and looked at her. His eyes now turned dark and empty. Was that the look he managed before he took someone’s life? She thought?

Now Tess felt fear for her own life and what ever actions she took would have to secure safety to the one person she needed to protect….herself!

“I am sure that an indepth investigation has been done, am I correct? Rest assured I am sure that you will soon realize that Master Hutchinson is the guilty party.” The two officers looked at each other with slight surprise.

Commander Sloakcom put his hand to his forehead. “Wallace, I’m having another one of my headaches. Tell me again why I am here?”!

['Bastian Devareaux]

Maid giggled to attentions, never let on to true wants of her nearness. As Pinon faded into the hallway, Beggar Prince drew tight so that daint ear lay in closest proximity of hushed words, "Harken closely to me, chere Chaton*. You need give that man wide berth...The man which just passed cloaked in midnight hue."

Giggles became staunched and she shifted for better view of his face. Question stroked brow momentarily, but the seriousness with which Dauphin gazed back at her, stiffled any further motion of query. Making show of it, he drew maid close again and cautioned further, "Something is afoot and it is best to keep care of you and yours until all is rendered to rights."

Subtle acknowlegement was given, in return.

*kitten

[Ransom]

As I came out of the alley between two buildings, I stopped dead in my tracks and cursed under my breath. In front of the Royal Grace was a large coach. The Cunningham arms - a checkerboard of mailed fists, burning towers, ermine spots and even a bar sinester to keep things interesting - shown with heraldic brightness on the door. The last thing I wanted was another confrontation with my aunt.

Abuptly, I turned and headed toward the docks. It was getting late, and I needed a place to sleep. On a whim, I entered a small, seedy looking inn, paid for a room I hoped didn't have too many bugs, then sat at a table in the rather cozy common room. A few other sailors talked and drank, but for the most part, the place was quiet and I was grateful.

From behind me, a voice soaked with contempt commented, "What happened? You get thrown off your own ship?"

Although I hadn't seen the man come in, the voice was all too familier. It's owner walked around to stand on the opposite side of the table from me. I smiled up at my former first mate. "Ioan, how's your back?"

He glared. "No longer bleeding, but I'll carry the whip marks as a memento of my time on the Rakehell."

"You deserved that little scratch of the cat. You let a prisoner escape, and I suspect you were paid for allowing it."

He shrugged. "Moot point now, wouldn't you say?"

"Actually, I have very little to say to you. So, if you're done scowling at me, take yourself off. I'd like a little peace and quiet for a change."

In defiance, he pulled out a chair and sat. "Oh, no. I think we have a bit more talking to do. At the moment, I have no ship and no money. I want a share of the money you got for the cargo you sold."

I took a sip of my ale, set the tankard down, and met Ioan's dark gaze with my own ice blue. "No."

"Then I might have to drop a word in Morgan's ear about what type of business you're in."

My gaze went from ice to steel. "You do that, and your body will be found floating in Chocolate Hole before you can enjoy whatever reward you might receive."

"I'll risk it," he replied.

['Bastian Devareaux]

He had arrived an hour's passing after receipt of messege. Now, sitting on surface of modest chair, Devon listened intently making effort to drive away notes of concern from whimsical expression. Just to the left and behind, he was all too conscious of the Frenchman's presence leaning against wall with arms crossed. Many things raced Irishman's mind, loyalties; survival; risk; thrawt; subjects that did little too paltice unease. Nevertheless, the blood that coursed his viens gave long witnessed proof of gambles and wager; and the temptation to thumb his nose at The Crown was too sweet an offer.

"Tis possible to gain knowledge inna lay o' the land..." came his reply as head tilted in consideration. "Some o' me aquaints may be in the keepin's o' such." A small frown creased Celt brow. "But I canno' be makin' promises o' wha' gain may come."

He paused in wordings, hearing trained behind to the ghostly indication regarding Chistophe's changing posture. Good natured smile crossed youthful expression, an effort to cheer and puctuation to the mischievous conjurings that sauntered in mental halls.

['Bastian Devareaux]

**

['Bastian Devareaux]

It took some doing, a few favors asked, the pressing of coin into proper hands, but at long last, what was requested would be granted. Granted with promises of protection if things went afoul. Parchment of smallish manner would make way to One secluded in dungeon-like encompasment. The messege it bore was of simplistic composition, but simplicity could be most profound. It wore no seal as crowning, nor signature within....

Just two words....

Je t'amie

['Bastian Devareaux]

The warmth of Nora's body so close signaled chorus of carnal deamons to plead their case and want with Pinon now so shurly gone. And ever so briefly did Sabastian give inward ear and audience. But Chorus was silenced for multiple reasons; the last being the glimpse of new Proprietess and the shade of displeasure that glossed her person.

Petit nibble was given to Nora's near ear as token of affection; swiftly follow by hushed words,

"Your Mistress seems lacking of approval in our actions, Chaton..."

Maid's eyes gave fleet flicker to one named, then down to where his hands laced at her front.

"I am to assume that she is unawares of who I am. Perhaps that need be remedied in near future."

Nora giggled.

Lavender water scent teased the length of her hair, tantalizing his sense of smell with each movement and again Chorus begged its' day in court. And this time, case came very close to winning judgment...

But grayish light now tickling far doorframe negated temptation; that and the face of another silently scolding the thoughts that came with Chorus' near overthrow. Bedding down for Dawn's further entrance was order of the Hour and it would prove best if return to Bella's chambers to obtained soon. Near silent sigh escaped his lungs and Sabastian eased forward, righting himself and Nora to proper sitting.

A glance over shoulder told her that interval had run its' course, and though there had been other occasions where Dauphin had graced her bedding, this would not be an encore. Gaining her feet, Nora waited as he did likewise and lay coin on wooden surface. Drawing her close again, more coin was pressed into her private keeping and whisper to her ear,

"Remember my words, Chaton."

Sabastian stepped away then and as hallway beginnings were gained, flourished bow was presented for Selkie's benefit.

Common was left for carriage in waiting.

[Capt. Sterling]

Weariness had not yet resulted in sleep. At best, anxiety had given into restless tossing and turning once exploration of cell had proven futile regarding any chance of escape. He had gone over it the best he could, nearly one hundred times. He had been fed thrice, if feedings of such foul gruel would be considered such. Pigs ate better, he was certain of it. Already he had lost any sense of time other than the notion that he had remained in the dark, shackled and ignored for far too long. So that, when small door within door opened and remained so, he barely noticed. It was not until something was dropped into the interior, that he bothered to look. Hands came up, irons worrying already raw flesh, as the light all but blinded his good eye. As paper was spotted upon cell floor, he made effort to crawl and fetch it. Sitting back against door, he quickly unfolded it. He had to stand to read it, holding it up to the light that filtered in through small opening that had remained miraculously ajar.

Je t'amie

Hand came up to grasp iron grating, fingers laced with crossed bars, but he could not reach up high enough to look upon the outer world and the herald who had delivered petite missive.

“Who are you? Are you there?” Sterling whispered, but none replied. “Tell her… tell my wife that I love her. Tell her that I did not mean what I had said. Twas only done to protect her and the baby. They would have taken her as well. I could not bear to know that she was imprisoned because of me! Tell her!!” He paused, hoping for a response. None came. Instantly resolve crumbled. Grasp tightened, shackles’ bite now harsh. “For God’ sake, give me yer word that ye shall tell her! I cannot get through this ordeal if she were to abandon me! If she did not know that I still love her….PLEASE!” heart rending cry echoed about stark chamber and door within door was slammed shut.

['Bastian Devareaux]

Nathan Kelley was disturbed by the desperation of Unseen's voice and request. He wanted to answer, he wanted to assure, the words haunting his being as glance was snuck above to fingers clasp of iron. Deep breath was taken to still his nerve, this was not the place to give any outward attention to the goings on behind heavy barrier as smaller one was slamed to closure.

Light sheen of perspiration broke over his person as he turned away; guaging his step carefully as if it were just another day; resisting the urge to retrace coarse, to offer some word of kindness. This situation was not the norm and had to be delt with under the strictest manner of caution.

Gaining the upper levels, Nathan ignored the taunts of lesser inmates; striding steadfast to one of the garrets. Sitting heavily on simple wooden bench; Irishman waited expectantly for his own release from the Land of the Lost.

[Capt. Sterling]

Sound of closing was deafening to his ears. He stepped backward into the darkness, watching for small portal to open once more. With no further breach of light, he cried out and flung himself against that which kept him from her.

"NO! WAIT!! FOR GOD'S SAKE, COME BACK!"

Fingers clawed at iron grate until faith had gone and he slowly moved away to collapse in furthest corner. Epistle, no longer could be read, and blindly finger tips moved to trace dainty writing. Over and over again, until paper was crumbled, clasped tightly to chest and anguished howl resounded from deep within before blond head fell and he began to weep like a child.