Port Royal, Jamaica

[Capt. Sterling]

"Now see here! Insisted Sterling

However the doctor was already walking out of the room.

"I'll be sure to have some delicious broth brought up, " Added Reiley, as he excused himself. "We shouldn't eat too hearty, now should we! Bon appetite mon Capi-tan!"

"Damnation!" Sterling grumbled as Reiley bowed with mock zeal in the doorway and then disappeared down the hall.

It was a moment longer before the captain turned to fix his stare on Christophe. Again his heart began to race and he knew inwardly that the cause was fear. He did not wish to say the wrong thing now, he knew he could not bare hearing the truth and so he swallowed, took a deep breath and suddenly realized what Christophe had just said.

"What the bloody hell do you mean she is away? With escort I hope?" Sterling began. And then he felt a strange sensation begin to creep over him. He had only experienced it once before... when Tess lay dying... he was beginning to panic. "My God, she must not be left alone, not with Killingsworth about!" he tried to stand but was left too light headed from the doctor's care. "For God's sake man if ye love her as I do, ye must go fetch her and bring her back here where tis safe!"

[Aurore Devareaux]

The Frenchman's vissage of stoicism remained unruffled except for minute narrowing of eye. Moving closer to Sterling's bedside, Christophe righted toppled table then turned to center cool tinctured sights upon harried other.

"Amour, Capitaine? Bold proclamations to lay out for all to 'ear..." he replied while sitting down upon high back chair's support. Leaning back, one ankle was brought to opposit knee and balanced there, " I must inquire of you, monsuier...Do you think her to be as defenseless as polished surface may lead you believe. That I would be foolish enough to risk 'er well being if I did not know where she was going?"

Christophe chuckled wryly.

"You 'ave no idea what we are. What she and 'er siblings are...Per'aps you should inquire of Doctuer Reiley as to what he thinks, non? I assure you, Aurore is far from the fragile creature she may appear. Now...I suggest that you calm your manner. If you think it necessary that I chase 'er down, then I may do so...But I know that she will return soon enough."

Regaining his feet, the Frenchman moved back towards the door, "Bonne chance, Capitaine....You are Gadje, just as I am and she 'as always seemed oblivious to my attention...Although it seems you 'ave managed to gain favor with Sabastian."

[Ransom]

I stood at the rail of my ship, thinking about the day's, and night's, events. One murder, and one attempted, and as far as I knew, sucessful second murder. Then there was Mistress McKinney's distress over Killingsworth, who seemed to be at the eye of this storm and, according to my new aquaintance, Prof. Trilby, a man who murdered with impunity. Until today.

What profit would Killingsworth gain by killing a maid and Captain Sterling? The maid, if she had rejected his advances as poor Louisa had done, I could understand. But Sterling?

To the east, a pale, peachy hue pushed away the darkness and announced the coming of a new day. The harbor was quiet, the air still fresh with night's cool breeze. I took a deep breath, enjoying the rare moment of solitude. Then a large presence came up behind me.

"Captain?" Africa's deep voice whispered.

I turned. "Yes?"

"A strange boat in the water. Jimmy say for you ta come see."

He led me to the stern of the ship, where Jimmy stood looking out over the water. "There." The boy pointed.

Slipping quiet as a toy over dark glass was a boat with two figures. One sat silent as the grim reaper, one hunched and hooded. Even in the poor light, I recognized the reaper, which made me think the hooded figure was Killingsworth. I feared the man would soon end up at the bottom of the harbor.

"What's going on, do you think?' Jimmy asked.

"Bad business, dat for sure," Africa said.

"Yes," I replied. "Bad business indeed. Jimmy, use your good eyes and mark where they go."

"Aye, Captain. What you plannin' on doin'?"

"I don't know yet." I turned away from the stern and headed back to my cabin. "Africa, roust Goose. Have him bring me some tea and a plate of food."

"Aye, Captain."

I glanced back over my shoulder, wondering what grim fate waited for Mr. Killingsworth, then went below to eat the first meal I'd had in almost twelve hours—notwithstanding Trilby's Madiera cake and Port.

[Capt. Sterling]

Regaining his feet, the Frenchman moved back towards the door, "Bonne chance, Capitaine....You are Gadje, just as I am and she 'as always seemed oblivious to my attention...Although it seems you 'ave managed to gain favor with Sabastian."

"Wait!" Sterling called after the Frenchman as he neared the door. He remained silent until Christophe turned to face him again.

"Do ye mean then, to tell me, that Mademoiselle does not share yer ... attentions toward her?" Sterling asked. "Forgive me, I should not seek to be so intimate in yer private affairs. Tis just that... seeing ye both together this morning..I could only bring myself to believe that she has played me false and that, indeed, I mean nothing to her because I am Gadje as ye say."

He looked upward at the Frenchman.

"Tis true, I know little of her ways. I have only had contact with the Domani and that little in itself. I also know our time together has been but brief, if I were another I would perhaps even argue the absurdity of such haste in a relationship and yet I cannot reason with myself where she is concerned... there is something about her, that .... I do not wish to put her behind me...and yet there is truly, nothing I can give her." He sighed quietly to himself. "I would be most grateful to ye if ye would indeed bring her back here. She does not have to come to me, I just would feel that much better knowing she was safe at home. I know of Lord Darnely only all too well. I trust neither him nor Killingsworth and until we know why things have occured as they have, I would feel that much better even if it were ye who watched her."

[Aurore Devareaux]

Christophe shook his head with disbelief, "You are a fool or completely blind, Capitaine. Perhaps it is not your fault but the nature of your 'omeland....Is it not obvious to you for I am not unawares of how she views you....Merde'"

The Frenchman leaned against doorframe eyeing Sterling bemused.

"I 'ave yet to puzzle the whys and wherefores....I pulled you from the street where you had fallen because of Aurore. I cannot deny 'er 'appiness for my own selfish wants...."

Christophe grew silent as if lost in private musings then spoke in resigned tone, "I shall send a rider out to where she has gone. What Aurore does upon return is not of my control."

[Cheeky Actress]

As Mistress McKinney followed the young waif towards the stables, he had commissioned a carriage at the Mistress’ expense to take them back to the cottage where Captain Sterling now recovered. Once in the carriage she looked over at the boy. He was lean, small and dirty. The image of him only remind her of her ill-fated beginnings after the death of her family in Old London Town.

With a shutter she shook off the image and then looked out the window. “Tell me boy, what of Captain Sterling?” The boy looked up at Lilly. “He has been taken to my Mistress’ bed to recover from his injury. Last I saw, he was sleeping soundly and my Mistress was tending to him.” Those very words sent Lilly’s heart bounding. Lilly tried not to react at the boy’s remarks. She thought back to the redheaded girl at the cottage the day the doctor and she tried to rescue him. She thought it odd how he kept ending up at the cottage under the safe watch of this woman.

“What is the name of your Mistress, boy?” She said leaning forward with a smile. The boy said nothing but pulled a small medallion from under his shirt. The emblem crested in gold with a symbol of old text upon it. Lilly raised an eye brow and pursed her lips. “Pretty that…is that something she gave you?” Again, there was no answer to her question. The boy sat back into his seat and looked out the window. Lilly found that the boy was not one for information and gave up trying to get answers from him. She now had to be content with her own worries. Not only did she have to be concerned with the Captain’s health, but there was a deeper ache, and must deeper concern that had risen now that this woman had show such kindness to her beloved Captain.

She closed her eyes for a moment and remembered back to the day the Empress pressed her for a new patron. The discussion between the two ladies was simple and to the point. The Empress told Lilly, “Befriend Captain Sterling Lilly. He is a kind soul, who has lost his only reason for living. In his time of grief, show him compassion, woo him, tend to his heart head, and body. I am sure that you will become the one he favors.” It was then she felt a sickening feeling creep into her stomach. She was no longer the one in his life. Yet, she had to see this for herself…or perhaps, just by chance, she was letting her emotions get the best of her.

Soon she could see the cottage from the top of road. With a sigh, Lilly looked back at the now sleeping boy. “Come you,” She said tapping his cheek. “We are here and I must make sure that you get me safe passage into your Mistress’ house.” The boy rubbed his eyes and looked out the window. There in front of the main gate stood two sentries. With a nod, the boy confirmed that he would do so. “Good,” Said Lilly as she was about to place on her vizzard. “You do the talking. I will just follow.”

[Capt. Sterling]

"I 'ave yet to puzzle the whys and wherefores....I pulled you from the street where you had fallen because of Aurore. I cannot deny 'er 'appiness for my own selfish wants...."

Christophe grew silent as if lost in private musings then spoke in resigned tone, "I shall send a rider out to where she has gone. What Aurore does upon return is not of my control."

Sterling looked once more across to the Frenchman.

"Ye think me selfish then, because I wish to know how she feels, what she has not spoken, has not said to me as of yet? Aye, then mayhaps I must be, for I desire greatly to be enlightened as to the matters of her heart. I have been around, too often, women who would do as she has done and it made no difference to them. Do not misunderstand me," he added, quickly raising one hand as Christophe bristled and straightened from the door frame.

"I have every right to ponder as I know her not, but desire so very much to do so..." he said, then laid back into the pillows..."I would be truly grateful for her quick and safe return to this house. I cannot overemphasize that even with Killingsworth's death, if Darnely has cause against the Devareaux family, none of them are safe on their own."

[Cheeky Actress]

The young waif stood at the gate as Lilly waited inside the carriage. Lilly watched the boy jester towards the carriage several times and then to the cottage. Though shrouded now in the guise of her black velvet mask, she forced herself to be patient with the boy. Soon she saw the men open the gate and the boy ran back to the coach. Her eyes could only express her happiness to the boy, and in turn he smiled back.

The carriage pulled up to the front door, the boy exited the carriage once again, but this time assisted Mistress Lilly from the carriage. It was only a matter of moments when they found themselves knocking at the front door. As the door open, a young maid servant opened the door with caution. Her eyes widened when she saw the boy with the masked women. The boy expressed his reason for using the front door, but in a harsh foreign-tongue whisper the maid servant scolded the boy. She quickly looked up at Mistress McKinney again. An awkward smile appeared upon her face. “Whom may I ask is calling?” Lilly removed her mask and looked down at the girl. “I wish to see Captain Sterling. I understand that he is here in this household recovering from his injury.” Suddenly there was the sound of heavy foot fall coming up the hall. Before the maid servant could explain herself, the door soon swung wide open. Christophe stood silent for the moment and looked deeply into the eyes of his unexpected guest. “I’ve come to see Captain Sterling.” She said. Her voice firm and calm, yet she was trembling inside. Christophe’s eyes darted back and forth for a moment then he opened the door fully, giving passage to Mistress Mckinney. “He is recouping nicely.” He soft tone filled the hallway as he escorted her to the room where the Captain lay.

Christophe stood at the bedroom door and knocked softly. He waited to hear a response from the other side. “Captain? You have a guest.” With that Christophe opened the door and showed Lilly inside. In the low lit room, it took a few moments for Lilly for focus upon the figure in the bed. “Hello Captain. It is I, Lilly. I’ve come to bring you home.”

[Aurore Devareaux]

The Barb's hide was covered with froth from the breakneck speed maintained on homeward course. Aurore reined mount to easier pace as the treeline drew near to navigate maze of trunks. Cottage vacinity achieved, she patted arched neck affectionately before sliding off noble seating to the ground below.

Soliel had risen higher in the last hours passing and the clearing around stone domocile became more enlivened. Their was a odd tense aura that shouded the area in discomforting manner. Aurore surveyed the immidiate area, her eyes coming to rest upon near hidden carriage blocked from clear view by cottage's placement.

The Barb was lead to the paddock and Mister Delaney who stood nearby.

Turning the reins over to his outstreached hand she glanced upward to bedchamber windows. Aurore entered by rear access and continued onward to stair rise. Uncertainty haunted the corners of her mind as upper floor was achieved for something was greatly out of place.

Aurore hesitated as unknown voice drifted to her hearing down corridor legnth. Stepping with care, bed chamber was neared and the door opened. Her eyes fell upon the other and narrowed with recognition.

"I will not ask how you managed entrance, but I would advise you remove yourself imediately...."

[Capt. Sterling]

Sterling was shocked by the actress's unexpected appearance. He watched as she glided, ever so gracefully into the room. Immediately he was stirred when he looked upon her and yet he found himself equally annoyed by her unannounced arrival.

"Home says you. And where might that be Mistress?" he asked in a low tone. "I can think of only one place that might qualify for such a claim and that great ship is still in the dockyards under repair. And the 'Angel hardly home nor any place for a lady such as thyself. Would thee drag me back to England then? I have no home there, only a room, loaned me by the kind consideration of the Empress. And if thee but knew her mind's thoughts regarding the two of us as of late, England is not where thee would wish to go either. I would wish the chance to speak mine piece to Cate, but I will not beg her if she fails to understand the truth. And as thee well know, I am in no condition to travel. Nay Mistress McKinney, at the moment I have no home but I do find some comfort here. Until I or Dr. Reiley say other wise, here I will..." Sterling stopped as he heard footsteps approaching. This time they were too light to be Christophe returning. And their soft padding too rapid to be Meagan's. He looked across the room as Aurore entered and he felt himself relieved that she was back and safe. And yet he had not expected the challenge she issued as she looked at Lilly....

"I will not ask how you managed entrance, but I would advise you remove yourself imediately...."

[Aurore Devareaux]

Aurore walked past the other with warning glare, coming to stop protectively in front of where Sterling lay. A quick glance was cast his way before steely expression focused back upon tresspasser.

"I will not accept you wrecking havoc within my home a second time...." Her verbose delivery portrayed unsaid intent, interwoven with subtle tracings of menace.

[Aurore Devareaux]

Tropical time passage moved with sluggish momentum, in lower lattitudes an hour could seem an eternity and even more so if one's situation were in dire straights. Golden orb trekked upward with no concern for the mere workings of mortal existances and endings below.

Sabastian sat cross legged on dirt sand mixture, morning light dappling his form through the sway of fonds above. Beyond the fires that burned in dark tinctured sights, his expression remained emotionless and near statuesque. No other wording had escaped his mouth since initial forboding phrase.

The one sided stand off had continued in this manner for the passing of two hour; antagonist and protagonist watching each other in silence while members of the Beggar's Ball drifted to peripheral placement waiting hungrily like pack of hounds awaiting release. A half hour more passed when Sabastian offered some break of unmoving posture with smallish incline of chin. Childermass moved forward two paces from small fire tending, then held position with minute hand gesture given by lotus poised Prince.

A tinge of twisted amusement flickered in dark sights as Sabastian stood with fluid motion and approached Killingsworth. Malice smile greeted English guest followed by words of vendetta driven undertones.

"I could end it now...end it quickly." he hypothosized outloud to bound listener. "But I think you do not deserve such extentions of courtesy any more than it would be extended to myself if I were in London at your whim."

He leaned in closer to meet Killingsworth eye to battered eye then gave low laugh while resuming former proximity. "Non...I cannot see where any mercy would be delivered unto me by your hand for your kind views mine as a lower class than even that of a tavern girl. Life is soooo very cheap in the hands of your kind, is it not?"

Dauphin Gitan turned back to the other as if in taunt and hopeless dare, " I could release you...Give you time to seek shelter than hunt you down; stalk you like I am sure you have done to so many others..."

Smile widened as he turned back to face the Englishman bound by Fate's heavy chain, "Non...Even that is too honourable end for you. But, I am going to offer you a chance....An act of mercy towards my fellow man? You may be the judge of that in the long or short run...."

Sabastian recentered attention to Childermass and motioned beckoning to belay former wish. From fire's keeping, a shaft of steel was retrieved by leather clad hand. A look of pleasant satisfaction crossed scarred facial features as the metamorphesis of black to glowing red was surveyed. The brand had been retrieved from cottage livery shed and brought into the Port for this specific purpose.

Thick riding gloves were removed from bright hued sash and slowly drawn into place as Childermass approached. Sabastian's eyes traveled the pale plains of Killingsworth's exposed flesh; flesh not conditioned to tropical climes. Taking proffered brand, Beggar Prince moved closer to the condemned, allowing brand's heat to tease pallid hide.

"One for sorrow..."

The brand was thrust against chest bare and allowed to rest as the stench of natural guise searing rose to scent the air. No effort was made of broil withdrawl as torturous scream broke English lung and throat, disturbing local avians from unseen roosts. Sabastian back paced, returning iron to original bearer; eyeing flesh rendered sigil of blackbird flight.

Turning away from Killingsworth's limp posture, Sabastian spoke just above normal vocalization tone, "This is your tithe and sentance, monsieur...If you survive, if you are unfortunate enough to be found and thereby released...The memory of your transgressions shall always come fresh to mind with the mark you will always bear...."

Entourage had begun departure, Franklin hovering on the fringe as Sabastian hesitated to give one last acknowledgment. Reaching into simple pouch at waist suspension, a coin was withdrawn and tossed to Killingsworth's feet.

" And if you should not be so misfortunate in being found, here is the fare required of Charon when you reach rightful destination."

Thieve's gathering left the area, dissipating as phantoms into shadow and green to regain waiting sand wedged launch.

[Rats]

"Hellfire! I'll be needing a drink for this! insisted Reiley, as he threw his hands up.

Then as he poured, contents of the first of intoxicants he could find into a glass of the same opportunity, he gave Young Mr. Davis simple instruction.

"Do not make yourself know, but simply listen close by." Reiley instructed. "If all hell breaks loose, do not attempt to break it up or you'll sure to be devoured by the frenzy.... Call out and I'll be there.....Eventually..... Alright, off with you now and good luck!"

"Sending a sheep off to slaughter? Perhaps not." Thought Reiley, after all how back could it possibly get?

[Ransom]

I was just about to settle in to what Goose had called a grilled chicken, when a frantic knock beat against the cabin door and Jimmy Cox called out. "Captain, come quick."

"I pushed the plate away, stood, and flung the door open. "What?"

The boy's eyes were like saucers. "I did like ya asked, and watched where the boat went. Out to another, but they didn't go far. One of the islands just outside the harbor. Then it were quiet for a time. Then...then there were this blood-chillin' scream."

Pushing passed the boy, I ordered, "Get a boat in the water. Now!"

A quick death by the grim reaper I could understand. Would be deserved. Conversly, if Killingsworth deserved hanging, then let him hang. But some small spark of my traditional English childhood could not condone torture. No doubt, I mused, a potentially fatal flaw in my character.

As the sun crested the eastern horizon, the boat was in the water, Ioan, Africa and Jimmy at the oars.

[Capt. Sterling]

Aurore walked past the other with warning glare, coming to stop protectively in front of where Sterling lay. A quick glance was cast his way before steely expression focused back upon tresspasser.

"I will not accept you wrecking havoc within my home a second time...." Her verbose delivery portrayed unsaid intent, interwoven with subtle tracings of menace.

"Ma chere dame, please do not worry yourself. Mistress McKinney, whilst here, " he paused and looked at the actress. "Here indeed, and how did thee get out of thy safe keeping?" Sterling asked then waved one hand signaling for the actress to hold her tongue, not wishing to know the details.

"I do hope Mr. Symms is in one piece," he added with a sigh. "As I was saying, Mistress Devareaux, Mistress McKinney will exhibit the very best behavior whilst she is under your roof." He cast another glance at Lilly, his good eye narrowed. "Will thee not?" The actress nodded her head, trying not to make a face as she did.

"I have thy word?" Sterling insisted, his gaze still focused upon the actress.

Lilly's lips pursed slightly and Sterling knew she was biting back something sharp. 'Yes of course," Lilly agreed. "You know very well I am a lady."

Sterling coughed slightly, then grimaced at the pain it caused. "Aye, yes of course," he mumbled. "Then thee will take leave and excuse Mistress Devareaux and myself for a moment. I wish a word in private with the lady."

He looked to Aurore now. "It will be all right if she waits down stairs for a brief spell, will it not?"

[Cheeky Actress]

Lilly looked hurt and she turned away from the Captain’s side. She had succumbed to his request only to make peace between them, and yet her heart grew very heavy with the thought that something ‘else’ had taken his fancy. He no longer spoke in the tone of a lover. Now his tone as one of the Patron; his was demanding and cruel. She drew a deep breath and looked at the young Mistress. Lilly could tell that she stood there in anticipation of her next move. “As you wish Captain Sterling, I shall be downstairs waiting to speak with you in private.” She showed herself to the door, but with every step she felt her heart breaking.

Lilly’s emotions were now on edge and she her mind reeled with the thoughts of Captain Sterling leaving her. As she took a seat upon the windowsill, she tried to concentrate on what had just past between them. The Captain mentioned the Empress, and from the sounds of his implied conversation, she has washed her hands of them both! A hint of panic hit her. She could never go back to London now to her old life and her old ways. She could only hope that her baby boy was safe as of the moment away from any harm. She began to weep lightly. All her plans and dreams were now dashed. “I am a fool.” She said whispering very lightly to herself. She closed her eyes for a moment and thought back to the first time she encountered Captain Sterling.

[Aurore Devareaux]

Aurore's eyes never left interloper, but her hearing was completely focused upon Sterling's word's, her response delivered in far warmer tone then that which had sounded moments before, " As you wish..."

Leaving his side with much indecision, Aurore opened the door and spied young Davis moving towards chamber proximity. He looked startled at the door's opening and froze. She gestured him forward and quietly asked if he would be so good as to take Mistress Mckinney below into Doctor Reiley's company. The boy nodded accord and Aurore stood with back to open door, allowing for other woman to exit. She remained in thresh hold framing, watching after duo until they disapeared from view with stairwell incline.

Heavy door shut quietly and Aurore turned to face him, hovering near portal proxy.

[Cheeky Actress]

As she sat near the windowsill, she thought back to the first time she and Captain Sterling were introduced in public.

Lilly looked about the court as if trying to search someone out. "My word, Lilly...you look far too eager. Is there someone you wish to find this evening?" said Reginald Killingsworth, her escort of the evening. She bit her lip for a moment. Was she that obvious? "No one truly special...more of a curiosity, 'tis all." The newly appointed parliament aid looked down at her. "You're an awful Liar, Lilly. I thought you said you were a good actress." His words took the wind out of her sails. She shot him a look of hatred. "Must you be so cold, Reggie? You, of all people must know how the London public feel about me. Why must you be so mean?" He turned and looked down at his satin covered dove. "I hold nothing back, that's why I am where I am today. My position wasn't purchased, as like most of my constitutions. I find it hard to deal with so many 'false people' that it bores me to tears." Lilly turned and barked a deep whisper to him. "Then why in God's name did you come here tonight? If you are in such a mood, please...do us all a favor and you should have just stayed home." "I could not bare the thought of you, Sweet Lil being alone for the evening...besides, my 10 pounds are still burning in your purse...I want to make sure my money is being put to good use.”

They lingered for a moment near the back garden. Once again, she tried to search the crowd for the Captain, that's until Reggie caught her again searching through the mix of people. "Come now, who is this person that has you up in a fit? Is it that nice young duke from Whitehall?” She didn't answer him. "Come now...secrets are my specialty!" She turned on her toe and looked up at him. "You think me mad to give you a confidence?! I think not Master Killingsworth." It was then she thought she saw a glimpse of the Captain from across the room, near the front of the court. The Captain stood there in his dashing black attire trimmed out in silver. For a moment her heart stopped a beat. "I must attend to something Reggie. Do stay put, will you?"

After shaking off Reggie for the moment, Lilly quickly dashed over to the other side of the court. This is where she could keep a close enough eye on him. She thought back to the last moment they were together. How he stung her with is quick retreat, yet he gave no true reason for his speedy departure. She was shaken to the very bone and it took her well into the night before she could find sleep. Yet, she could not keep him out of her gaze. He puzzled her for he was a queer man, indeed. She found out from her servants and friends who this Captain was and his history. Yet, after learning all about him, rumors or not, she was shocked and surprised on how a man could be put through so much and yet, still manage to overcome the loss of the woman he loved and not be brought to his knees. She spied him speaking to Lord Melchard and quickly darted in and out of people to move even closer. She quickly hid herself behind Lady Melbourne and her snippy little dog until the wretched beast started to bark uncontrollably and drew attention to itself and her. It was then people started to turn and stare. As the Captain turned and saw Lilly trying to hush the dog, he could only chuckle at her pale attempt. "Mistress McKinney?" He said smiling as he approached her. Lilly quickly stood up and gingerly kicked the lapdog aside. "Captain..Captain Sterling. Such a nice surprise, I had no idea that you would be joining the King this evening."

The Captain nodded his head for a moment. "Perhaps you should keep your escort on a shorter leash." He said pointing down at the spaniel now hiding under the skirts of Lady Melbourne. "She sees very little humor in your comment, Captain." Lilly said to him snidely. "I did not come alone to this affair, Captain. I do have an escort this evening. It is Master Reginald Killingsworth. You may have heard that he now has taken seat in Parliament."

Yes the Captain was very familiar with the name. He knew that he was a very pompous man of ill-wit and poor tastes...both in women and in clothing. His ego was as big has his stuff shirts. How could this pretty little creature of London find herself entangled with such a poor choice?" "Really? You mean that wasn't him you just kicked?" What such fool would leave ye alone?"

Lilly's face fell with surprise and disappointment. "How cruel!?" She snapped. "And pray, Sir...where is your fine Lady? Or is it perhaps Lord Melchard who will be keeping you company this evening?" The Captain shook his head no. "I fear not Mistress." But before he could reply with his answer she was quick to cut him short. "Oh, that's right Captain, I hear that he prefers younger boys and barnyard animals; sorry to disappoint." She watched as the marred face before her paled once more and she could swear the eyes began to tear as well. "Me thinks then you have come to mock me?" the Captain whispered.

As the crowds lingered around them, both Lilly and the Captain soon realized that eyes and ears were upon them. Strange to think that the King, who now stood less than ten feet away, was also listening to them bicker. Lilly stood silent for the moment. Why was he causing her such strife? She had a right to be there that evening with her 'escort' and make merry. Perhaps the Captain didn't agree with her social choice of escort, but she didn't see him pouncing at the opportunity of formally asking her out to tonight's event. She knew that he had three more months of mourning before he could even extend an invite to any and all social events of the season, of course this would explain why he was there alone. It was then the King approached the two of them. They quickly stopped their bickering and bowed to his highness. "What do we have here? The making of a new play, perhaps? Come now...If you two are to rehearse such a marvelous play...do so at the theater. We are here to celebrate. Come Captain, I would like to discuss your next trip. Rumor states that it is to the new world." Lilly quickly turned to him and whispered. "Please Captain, let us not fight. Not here. And yes, your tongue is sharp, Sir. But I can find better use for it, if you give me a chance." And with that she quickly kissed his cheek and took her leave.

He watched the pretty little actress skirt away quickly within the crowds of the hall. The Captain stood there stunned for a moment, still holding his cheek where she kissed it. “Captain?” Asked the King as he stood there trying to arouse him back to consciousness. The Captain quickly turned towards the King. With a smile the King lent forward and whispered. “You do have good taste in women, John. But she is one that will be hard to tame. Not much different from my EllenVilliers, but she has a strong head about her. Don’t give in to her fits of rages, John. I have had to learn the hard way with Barbara, you know. Yet, there is something about having a pretty face about to cheer you when you are feeling a bit blue. Even my dear wife has managed many good graces in that aspect. Just keep your head on straight and remember…if she loves you…she’ll be back.”

[Capt. Sterling]

She remained in thresh hold framing, watching after duo until they disapeared from view with stairwell incline.

Heavy door shut quietly and Aurore turned to face him, hovering near portal proxy.

Sterling lay back into the comfort of the bed with a sigh. "Lady," he said somewhat breathlessly. He was tired. Reiley's poking, prodding and walk about the cottage had throughly wasted him. Bloodletting and drugs did not aid in keeping his head clear.

"Thank you for returning with such haste. I would that ye would promise me not to venture out alone, even where ye would think it most safe. Promise me?" he whispered.

[Aurore Devareaux]

Aurore drew near, her expression riddled with concern at his palor and labored breath. The request was a simple one to give binding accord to, but inwardly she struggled momentarily for in ways the promise would clip her wings of freedom. Aurore's dark eyes looked intently to his own and though her nature pleaded for opposit decision, she replied softly in hopes of aiding to his comfort level. One word of binding properties...

"Oui..."

[Capt. Sterling]

she struggled momentarily for in ways the promise would clip her wings of freedom. Aurore's dark eyes looked intently to his own and though her soul pleaded otherwise she gave answer softly in hopes of aiding to his comfort level. One word of binding properties...

"Oui..."

"Come here, chere, please," he said, holding out his hand to her.

[Aurore Devareaux]

Her tawny hand lay into his keeping as she moved nearer, waiting quietly without mention or stirring of the storm that they currently sat in the eye of. With ever patience, she would remain silent in regard to the calamity of circumstance, allowing him to bring up issue or not.

[Tess St. Claire]

Tess St. Claire donned her best dress that morning as she entered The Ships tavern. There at the bar were three men still sober as the Tavern owner took need of his pipe. As she approached the bar with a smile she quickly took the attention of the men in the room. Her delicate frame and her bright blonde hair struck them with awe. “Where may I find a man-for-hire? I have need of a man-servant.” The Tavern owner looked up from his pipe he was lighting. “You can find what yer lookn’ for down by the docks. There be many a man willing to work for a day’s pay.” Tess looked surprised. “Come now…you do not expect me to wander down to the dockside myself? Is there no one where that will procure such a man for me?” With a smile she placed a gold crown upon the bar. It did not take long for the boldest man sitting at the bar to speak up. “Aye, I can assist you dear Lady. I would be happy to collect whatever you may fancy.” With that he held out his arm to her. She just giggled at his pale attempt. “Good. I need a man no more than 5 and 20, strong in build and in mind. He must speak English, and no black or Indian slave. Is that understood?” The man nodded. “Come, show me the way…” With that the man led her down the street to the docks.

Upon arriving at the docks, the activities of the day were in heightened by the arrival of another ship. It was then the man lead her to an area near the warehouses were. Tess looked through the crowds and soon they managed to approach a handful of men standing near one of the warehouses. “You there…yes you!” Shouted the man who was escorting Tess about the docks. “My Mistress wishes to acquire you for service.” The young man turned and looked at the man, then at the lovely Tess. “Service? I am a free man and I work for meself!” It was then the man grabbed his coat and forced him to listen. “I said, me Mistress wishes to hire you for money…more than you will make in a day lifting these bails.” With a fearful look, he glanced over at Tess again. “How may assist you my Lady?!”

“Splendid!” Tess said with a smile. “Now that has been taken care of, I wish you answer some questions for me.” She said pulled a coin from her glove. “I am looking for a..man. He goes by the name of Killingsworth.” One of the other men stepped forward. “You mean that Reginald Killingsworth?” Her eyes quickly darted over to the other man. “Yes…yes, I do.” “He’s been captur…taken away.” Suddenly a furry of panic struck her. “Taken away? By whom? Where was he taken away?!” The men all went silent. “Come now…please, I must know. I ...I have business with him.” They still did not answer her. She could see fear in their eyes by the mear mention of Killingsworth's name. “Is it money? Do you wish me to pay you for your information?” It was then the other man leaned in and whispered to her. “No Lady. No amount of money could make us say. We value our lives too much. It is best that you not mention his name here on the docks. There are 'others' that would wish him ill-will. ” She suddenly felt her stomach turn. “Very well. No more talk about such things. You will come with me. I shall need your services for the rest of the day.” The young man followed in tow with the other right behind her.

On the way back to the Ship her mind raced with images of doom. “Damn him!” She thought to herself. “He’s a fool for getting caught and knowing him, it was probably his ego that turned the knife!” She looked back at the two men and smiled lightly, then continued in the direction of the Inn. “Men are idiots!”

[Capt. Sterling]

Her tawny hand lay into his keeping as she moved nearer, waiting quietly without mention or stirring of the storm that they currently sat in the eye of. With ever patience, she would remain silent in regard to the calamity of circumstance, allowing him to bring up issue or not.

Sterling was astonished at the sense of relief he felt as her hand slipped into his.

"Aurore," he began. He had never addressed her so intimately before. "Tis only for a short time, I pray, that I must request this of ye. I will not rest easy until I know what Killingsworth is after, or until he is dead. For all his foppery, his weak tongue, he is still a dangerous fellow. I have tried and tried to fathom as to why he would wish to harm ye, for it must be so, Chere. I do not mean to frighten ye thus, unless it helps ye to understand my deep concern regarding yer safety."

His hand tightened about hers as he continued.

"As to Mistress McKinney's sudden appearance here again. I know it has upset ye. I apologize. I know not why she is here or how she came to be here. I left her under lock and key with strict instructions that she was not to be allowed out of her room. Ye see, Chere, I could easily think Killingsworth connected to her. Tis not safe that she is out and unescorted either. And there is..." he pulled Aurore gently closer.

"I will not lie to ye Lady, but my heart is a confusion of feelings right now. I could tell ye that there are no feelings still for Mistress McKinney, but it would not be the truth. So I will be blunt and tell ye that she still holds sway over me.

I could tell ye that it pleases me to see ye about with Christophe, alone... but it does not. It pains me greatly, and fills my being with a dread I've not felt in so many years. I do not know yer feelings for this man and I do not expect ye to explain yerself... and I know it has been such a short time indeed since first ye came into my life, but the feelings I have for ye are strong, Chere, very strong indeed and I do not wish to give them up."

[Cheeky Actress]

Images of her past with her Captain only made her cry harder. Soon the sounds of weeping drew the attention of the good doctor. He stood in the door way of the parlor for a moment. He watched as she buried her face in her hands and cried uncontrollably. He hesitated for a moment to enter the room. What would he say to her? What could he say to her that would help her situation?

“Now…now,” He whispered to her as he handed her his best and only handkerchief. “What is this all about?” She looked up at him with tears brimming on the edge of her soft blue eyes. She moved over and let him take the seat next to her. “I am a fool.” She whispered to Reiley. “My life is all a shambles and it is all my fault.” Suddenly, Lilly quickly turned and placed her head upon his shoulder and began to cry. Looking a bit amiss, he quickly looked towards the doorway, hoping no one would enter as of the moment. “I find that hard to believe, Mistress.” He said rolling his eyes at the very words flowing from his mouth. She clung tighter to his shoulder as the tears flowed harder. “I am in love with him. I swear to God I love him…yet, he has cast me aside for that…that snip of a girl upstairs. ‘Tis no matter that I have given up everything for him…my life upon the stage, my very existence…and yet…he does not care!” Reiley soon felt Lilly fold into his body lightly. “How can I make him understand that I still love him with all my heart? I need to speak with him. Will you please talk with him, Reiley? He will listen to you. Tell him that I am sorry and that I have something important to tell him.” The soft scent of her perfume made Reiley light headed. All he could do is try to catch his breath for the moment. “Yer..yes…yes of course.” He voice cracked. The he tried to clear his throat from his nervous tone.