Port Royal, Jamaica

[Aurore Devareaux]

Aurore moved quietly into the Parlor where she found Doctor Reiley perusing the contents of book ladden shelves. Not wishing to startle him with supposed unawares intrusion, she waited near the entrance until his attention drifted her way.

"Am I disturbing you, monsieur?" she queiried softly," If so, I shall kindly beg your leave and retire to the Drawing Room. You will find, just to the left of where you stand, a collection of decanters that might offer a respite to current issues."

[Cheeky Actress]

First and foremost, know this….I love you. I have never stopped loving you, John. In my heart I could not stop thinking about you. It broke my heart when I turned your proposal of marriage down the second time. Yet, I do have good reason….

It all started the summer you were sent to the Netherlands. Lord Robert Darnly arrived at the Empress’ coffee house making inquiries about me. He had seen my performance in Killingsworth’s play, “The Vicar’s Wife” and was taken by me and my performance that he wished to become my Patron and sponsor me in the fine art of acting. An agreement was drawn up by his lawyer and soon I was performing as Desdemona in Shakespeare’s Othello.

Those were happy times, Captain. Shortly thereafter I soon learned that Lord Darnly had more than an interest in my acting ability. Oh at first, he was harmless enough and he was attentive. He would shower me with all sorts of lovely items a lady such as myself would fancy. Then I found out that I was carrying your child and knew that I wouldn’t be able to perform much longer without the whole of London knowing.

But before I could gently break the news to Lord Darnly, he found out. One of the dressers in the theater mentioned to him that I ‘no longer fit’ my costumes and I grew ill at all hours. Everything went wrong from that point forward. His temper, his bullying, his threats, they were all aimed at destroying me and those I loved. At first, I thought he was acting very much like a spoiled child, but soon I knew that Lord Darnly was not one to cross.

One night he came to my room in a drunken rage. He shouted at me that he owned me, body and soul. I just laughed at him figuring he was just upset. It was then he showed me the contract which I signed five months earlier. I was horrified to find out that I had literally given him everything him…including my freedom! I was nothing but chattel and by law he owned me completely. He also said that if I ever tried to leave him he would find me and do me in!” Lilly turned away for a moment to hold back the tears from her face. She swallowed hard as she tried to continue.

“It was that very same night he ‘took what was his’ by force and I swore it would never happen again. I kept my distance as often as I could. Soon the theater season had ended and Lord Darnly traveled out of London with the rest of the court. One of the girl’s in the Empress’ coffee house informed me of a place where I might be able to have the baby. It was north of London and no one but she knew. After I recovered from child birth, I left our babe in the care of the couple who owned the farm, then I traveled back to London and planned my escape.

But Darnly and his henchmen followed me. He is like some horrid little terrier that once he sinks his teeth into something he will not let go. I lived in fear these last few days, fearing that Killingsworth would to anything and everything to make me bend to Lord Darnly’s demands…I see that he may have told Killingsworth to do what ever it took to get me back. And now…look at you…” Lilly’s face was now drenched in tears. “You all most lost you life because of me.” She began to whisper in soft sobs. “My intension was to find you out my Sweet, tell you of our son and accept your proposal of marriage. I did not know that you were here in Port Royal when I came. I thought once I established myself here and start performing again, I would then send for you, our boy, and save a little money so we could have a decent life together here. Now you know my tale of woe, Sir…and I am at your mercy…please be kind, John. She said as she wept softly.

[Rats]

"You have a quiet step M-lady." Announced Reiley, as Mistress Devareaux entered the parlor.

Then continuing as if he was talking to a familiar acquaintance. “It’s funny. But I find myself staring at books in perplex ion over the welfare of people whom I would have normally cared less about…. Old Grady Lords would have called me a fool to tie in with a drama such as this. Yet for some reason….”

Then without finishing his sentence, he turned a pair of welcome and somewhat tired eyes toward Mistress Devareaux. “And how are you faring M-lady, if I may inquire?”

Without answering, Aurore calmly walked over to the cabinet. As she began to pour two drinks, Aurore called to mind the various rumors and stories she had heard concerning an outlaw known as Rats O'Reiley. Yet it was almost humorous how different the images were from the man himself. Far from the typical cut throat as rumored, this man Reiley had an obvious sense of honor.

"You sir are a fraud..." She smiled, as she offered the "good doctor" a drink.

"Yes M-lady." Smiled Reiley, as he accepted the drink. "I guess I am..."

[Captain Striker]

Striker and March took a stroll on the docks . Striker started explaining himself "As I said earlier , the captain is in great danger .... It is always good to know ones enemies . In this case he already does .... I stumbled upon it last night . I heard that Killingsworth was in town and decided to act on behalf of my dearly departed cousin , which Killingsworth took by force and killed. " Striker's head started to hang low a bit

"While I was waiting in the Shaddows to do the dark deed . I overheard it all , he was talking with the new threat . "

Striker stoped walking and turned to look Mr.March in his eyes " Look me in the eyes , Sir " said Striker with absolute firmness

" Ye can now see if I am lying or not , The new threat killed Killingsworth , but before that I overheard everything .... The plan to do Captain Sterling and Mistress McKinney in. I wish to inform the Captain of it face to face"

Striker turned around and started walking again while looking into the horizon " Sir ,as far as I see ye have till morrow , after that it will be to late ! Then I fear that I cannot be of any service and nor can ye "

[Aurore Devareaux]

"You have a quiet step M-lady." Announced Reiley, as Mistress Devareaux entered the parlor.

Then continuing as if he was talking to a familiar acquaintance. “It’s funny. But I find myself staring at books in perplex ion over the welfare of people whom I would have normally cared less about…. Old Grady Lords would have called me a fool to tie in with a drama such as this. Yet for some reason….”

Then without finishing his sentence, he turned a pair of welcome and somewhat tired eyes toward Mistress Devareaux. “And how are you faring M-lady, if I may inquire?”

Without answering, Aurore calmly walked over to the cabinet. As she began to pour two drinks, Aurore called to mind the various rumors and stories she had heard concerning an outlaw known as Rats O'Reiley. Yet it was almost humorous how different the images were from the man himself. Far from the typical cut throat as rumored, this man Reiley had an obvious sense of honor.

"You sir are a fraud..." She smiled, as she offered the "good doctor" a drink.

"Yes M-lady." Smiled Reiley, as he accepted the drink. "I guess I am..."

Aurore smiled knowingly, "But then, is that not the case with most of us?"

She moved away to gain the comfort of overstuffed sofa, tucking one leg under herself while one bare foot was left to brush the carpet below. Gesturing towards the surface's opposit end, Aurore procured daint sip from brandy flame. An appreciative look crossed her features at glass content, and she offered comment offhandedly.

"There are men of position that have never had such noble spirit cross their palet. I think you will quite approve of the selection you have made." Aurore tracked Reiley's movement as he took seating on sofa's deep give. Considering ealier train of thought, she continued, "Do tell, monsieur...and please do not think me over bold, for it is not my intent to pry...."

The sentance was allowed to hang then dissipate as she regarded her companion with vieled observation.

"...How long have you been in The Port? Jamaica is quite a change of venue from native Sod. Did you come here seeking fortune, as many here have? Or perhaps new beginnings...?"

Aurore's expression was a portrait of innocent interest and her smile turned thoughtful.

[Capt. Sterling]

Sterling listened quietly. The more Lilly spoke the worse he felt. As she began to draw the first part of her tale to a close, he sat, staring, expressionless at the floor, his right hand pressed to his mouth as if to curb his tongue before he himself spoke. Lilly moved around to the far side of the bed and sat gently down upon it, next to but not truly close to the captain as she finished speaking. Sabastian straightened as the actress slowly reached across, leaning slightly as she did, and rested her hand upon the captain’s leg. Despite her touch, Sterling remained still, deep in thought, turning over and over again the things she said.

Devareaux looked across at the other man. It was clearly evident that he was distraught and Sabastian could only guess what he was truly feeling. Quietly he sat back in his chair, folding his arms before his chest, but, even though his actions were slow and subtle, his movement was like the town crier’s bell, breaking the heavy silence in the room. Lilly turned and looked at Devareaux, her eyes frowning slightly before she corrected her expression. She did not care for the sibling of her revival to be present. She herself, had wished for Reiley to be allowed an ear during this conversation, but Aurore had been given the choice. Lilly bristled at the thought, another tear running down her cheek. She did not like this childlike girl who had suddenly intruded into her life and her plans. Almost half Sterling’s age, Lilly allowed herself to believe that it was nothing more than the physical that had caught his eye. Surely, the captain would quickly learn that Aurore Devareaux was no different than any other female, her need for money, the attention of others, such things would soon come to the surface… after all, Lilly thought, surely she wasn’t the only actress in the world. And yet as Lilly turned back to face Sterling once again, she had to admit that she did love him and she had played her cards wrongly regarding his feelings. How wrong she was to think that he would hang about forever, content with what little she gave him.

[Ian Finn]

“STOP THEM!” Screamed Tess St. Claire from the front entrance of The Shipp Inn! “Murders! Murders! They’ve done in Master Killingsworth!”

"SHITE! Ian, duck down th' alley Find 's a door thas open." Throwing the body over my shoulder, I try to keep up with Liam. He ducks down a narrow street between two buildings Several townspeople now start to come into the streets. The blonde woman behind us tries to reach us but her distance keeps becoming greater as several soldiers rush to her to try to get her story. "STOP THEM!!" she cries again and again. Liam finds a door in the alley that is open and we rush in. I drop the body on the floor and put my hands on my knees gasping for breath. Liam leaves the door ajar so we can see the stores inside. Several barrels are stacked along the far wall. RHUM is stamped on most of them. Some have the lids off so I take a sniff in those. "Aye, rum 'tis me bruddah. Seems like a good place t' lay low. Eh Liam?" Laughing, Liam starts to look around at the room at what other stores we can find.

[Andrew March]

Striker and March took a stroll on the docks . Striker started explaining himself "As I said earlier , the captain is in great danger .... It is always good to know ones enemies . In this case he already does .... I stumbled upon it last night . I heard that Killingsworth was in town and decided to act on behalf of my dearly departed cousin , which Killingsworth took by force and killed. " Striker's head started to hang low a bit

"While I was waiting in the Shaddows to do the dark deed . I overheard it all , he was talking with the new threat . "

Striker stoped walking and turned to look Mr.March in his eyes " Look me in the eyes , Sir " said Striker with absolute firmness

" Ye can now see if I am lying or not , The new threat killed Killingsworth , but before that I overheard everything .... The plan to do Captain Sterling and Mistress McKinney in. I wish to inform the Captain of it face to face"

Striker turned around and started walking again while looking into the horizon " Sir ,as far as I see ye have till morrow , after that it will be to late ! Then I fear that I cannot be of any service and nor can ye "

Andrew March walked silently besides the other captain, his hands gripped tightly behind his back, his face a mask. When Striker suddenly halted abruptly and challenged March with his trustworthiness, March had to admit he was taken somewhat aback. He knew not this man from Adam, why should he trust him at all? And if his information was so vital to Captain Sterling's well being, a matter of life and death, surely why keep it to himself? March would be shouting it from the rooftops...

The Scotsman fell back into step as Striker resumed their walk. As the other man gave up his deadline it was all March could do to keep himself in check. Any other man with a threat against his captain's life, would have already been escorted down a quiet path and gutted by now, but there was something about Striker that March was all too unsure of... for some reason he believed he was telling the truth.

"Can ye not be tellin me, sir?" March finally asked as they continued on after a few moments of silence.

Striker shook his head and March had to force himself to believe that what ever it was Striker knew, the man believed it was a matter between gentlemen. March accepted that hesitantly, knowing, not every first officer was his captain's confidant and friend.

They continued walking until they had arrived at a quiet and remarkably empty spot. It was then March's turn to stop and turn toward Striker.

"Sir, I am indebted to ye for yer information, but due to the death of the tavern maid prior to the attempt on Captain Sterling's life, I am unable to tell ye where the Captain is currently under the watchful eye of our surgeon. Unfortunately the same family that has suffered the grave loss of Mistress Shea is also the same providing shelter for the Captain. Some how Killingsworth has linked the two together and yer new threat may do the same as well, thus neither the Captain, Mistress McKinney or this family may be safe.

I understand and appreciate the urgency of which ye speak, but I must send word first before I can just walk in unannounced with ye in tow, in order for ye to speak with the Captain. I need time, Sir, although I will act accordingly with all due haste. Until then I ask that ye see to yer own back as well for if Killingsworth was involved, so then must be Lord Robert Darnly and no one is safe. Where might I be able to reach ye?"

[Rats]

"Fortune dear Mistress?" smiled Reiley. "Nay... Twas more like dodging the gallows."

With what he already knew of this household, his past was far from shocking and therefore divulging events past would not be out of form. As he sampled Lady Devareaux's choice of drink, he found himself wondering if her selection had been made him or for herself.

"A lady such as this?" Reiley told himself, "How could I even wonder... Always the hostess. Always the lady."

“She was just a young lady I had met during my tenure." Started Reiley. "A sweet girl for which I grew quite fond of. And he, he was a magistrate’s son. The kind created by money and the protection of which his father’s station providith.”

Allowing a sad smile to appear, Reiley took another sip from his drink.

“Though talk had her labeled as a clipper, I couldn’t let him get away with what he did. But after the duel, I had no choice but to take to the road. That’s where I met old Grady Lords, and that’s when Rats O’Reiley was born. In the years that followed, I learned the trade from one of the greatest scoundrels the world has ever seen.”

“When they finally caught up to us and I was able to escape, I managed to talk me way into the service of a wealthy couple, who were bound for Port Royal. After the mistress fell ill and passed during the passage, I was relieved of my duties and looked toward other means… Or should I say “the usual means” of turning a profit.... Somehow I find myself here.”

Then allowing a quiet laugh. “If he could only see me now, sitting in such a place with the very best of company, might I add… Grady would have split a stitch.”

[Ian Finn]

The gentleman rolled up in the sheet was now beginning to smell. The blood had seeped through the sheet and was obviously to reveal it's contents. "'e's bein' a rite pain in the arse 'e 's," said Liam as he quickly pinched his nose. "Aye. Give 's a peek out th' door t' see 'f it's settled outside." Liam cracked the door slightly and peered outside. Several soldiers could be seen walking about peering into windows and checking random doors, but not in haste. "Still about Ian," he says closing the door quietly. "Wot's 'n those crates under yer arse?" I stand to open one of the crates to reveal several uniforms matching those on the men outside. The next crate is full of heavy canvas tarps and woolen jackets. The next few reveal various bits of military clothing and a few weapons as well as powder, shot and heavy canvas. Liam and I look at each and decide that we have found a storehouse for the soldiers here in town. "Bloody 'ell," he says, "guess they won't look fer 's 'n 'ere eh?"

[Liam Finn]

Looking around the storeroom in the dim light, all the barrels of rhum and other crates and other things, I find one barrel to be empty. "Ian, this one be empty, tha bugger's goin in it." He looks at me for a moment then smiles as he understands. "Aye, a fine casket." We pick up the body, who we find is called Killingsworth and with our combined strength fold him in half and into the barrel. I drop several handfuls of dirt from the floor in on top of him and then jam the barrel end down tight. "Tha should do im fine. Rest in piece ya bastard." We hear the yelling of the woman get quiet and the sounds of alarm die down. Ian turns to me. " Ain't much goin on now, tha bitch's got ta explain all er yellin an all ta them soldiers, we gonna wait it out til it's quiet?" I walk to the gap of the door and look out. I see no soldiers or the blonde woman. "We could wait it out, but they could be searchin fur us. I say we find somewheres else ta be, if they do find us ere, an look about an find tha bastard in th barrel, we're done." " Aye brudder." I slowly open the door and look out, the only person in sight is an old beggar asleep or dead laying in another doorway. "Time ta go brudder. Grab up two o them jackets, we need ta look proper." I head out and Ian follows with the clothes in hand, we head out and around, keeping a lookout for soldiers and that woman. we find ourselves back near the big fancy house with the limestone wall around it, so I help Ian over the wall and follow him over. There's a small copse of fruit trees in the corner of the walls that we go and hide in for the time being.

[Capt. Sterling]

He did not know how long he sat, bombarded with an overwhelming multitude of thoughts, trying to reason what he now felt. Surely after all these years his father’s words of “wisdom” could not be true? Did he honestly have such little self control over himself? After all, according to his father, women were merely mindless property…. Nothing of importance…aside from a place to spill one’s seed.

Was it truly pathetic to allow one’s heart to be given over completely to the keeping of another human being? Sterling had not only done so once with his first wife Tess, but also with Lilly and now… was he doing so again with Aurore? And where was Cate when he needed her so… disillusioned and washing her hands of him….Was he genuinely a fool to love so much, so entirely, or was he justified in how he allowed himself to be lead by his heart and not his head where women were concerned? He did not wish to believe his father was correct, not after the life of abuse Sterling had seen Lord William heap upon both his real mother and his step mother.

He slowly lowered his hand to his side then looked over at Lilly. For a moment he closed his eyes tightly, his father’s remarks about his miserable failures in life and matrimony, churning his stomach and filling his mind with self doubt. Perhaps he should be just a bit more wise?

“Are you all right?” he heard Lilly ask in concern. “Perhaps now is not a good time to discuss this. I should not have come but I was so worried ….”

Sterling shook his head then looked once more at her. For a moment he was lost in the blueness of her eyes. It was not the first time, and he could not swear it would be the last…

“I am well enough,” he said, his words catching in his throat as he studied her features. “Surely she was acting now?” he tried to convince himself. How many times had he called upon her to find her occupied with other gentlemen? Had she not plainly told him, both times she had rejected him that she could not spend her life fearing the possibility of being as poor as a church mouse all her days? Had she not said she loved her lifestyle and her trinkets far too much?

His eyes narrowed slightly now. Had she not indeed loved her things more than him? By God, she had not even included him in the life of their child…. His son as well as hers, until now. Did she really expect him to believe she had run to Jamaica to start a new life, one in which she would send for him… eventually?

He knew all too well what a danger Robert Darnly was… but he knew the Empress even better… if Cate thought Lilly was well suited for someone like Darnly, then she was. And no threat from Darnly would last long where the Empress was concerned. If it came down to a life for a life, twould be Darnly that needed to fear not the Empress nor Lilly.

His thoughts quickly turned to Aurore Devareaux. How little he knew her and yet the desire within him to know her better and to take the risk of making her his wife was irresistible.

Except for the woman sitting now besides him, there was no one that could make him change his mind regarding the gamble he wished to take. Unless it was Aurore herself. And what, after all this, she did not want him in a like manner? Would he still be content to ask Lilly a third time? Would this be the charm as they say or would he be stumbling headlong into a nightmare with a woman who truly did not care for him and who’s eye too frequently traveled quickly to focus on other men? Cate had trained Lilly well… too well.

[Captain Striker]

Andrew March walked silently besides the other captain, his hands gripped tightly behind his back, his face a mask.  When Striker suddenly halted abruptly and challenged March with his trustworthiness, March had to admit he was taken somewhat aback.  He knew not this man from Adam, why should he trust him at all?  And if his information was so vital to Captain Sterling's well being, a matter of life and death, surely why keep it to himself?  March would be shouting it from the rooftops...

The Scotsman fell back into step as Striker resumed their walk.  As the other man gave up his deadline it was all March could do to keep himself in check.  Any other man with a threat against his captain's life, would have already been escorted down a quiet path and gutted by now, but there was something about Striker that March was all too unsure of... for some reason he believed he was telling the truth.

"Can ye not be tellin me, sir?" March finally asked as they continued on after a few moments of silence.

Striker shook his head and March had to force himself to believe that what ever it was Striker knew, the man believed it was a matter between gentlemen.  March accepted that hesitantly, knowing, not every first officer was his captain's confidant and friend.

They continued walking until they had arrived at a quiet and remarkably empty spot.  It was then March's turn to stop and turn toward Striker. 

"Sir, I am indebted to ye for yer information, but due to the death of the tavern maid prior to the attempt on Captain Sterling's life, I am unable to tell ye where the Captain is currently under the watchful eye of our surgeon.  Unfortunately the same family that has suffered the grave loss of Mistress Shea is also the same providing shelter for the Captain.  Some how Killingsworth has linked the two together and yer new threat may do the same as well, thus neither the Captain, Mistress McKinney or this family  may be safe. 

I understand and appreciate the urgency of which ye speak, but I must send word first before I can just walk in unannounced with ye in tow,  in order for ye to speak with the Captain.  I need time, Sir, although I will act accordingly with all due haste.  Until then I ask that ye see to yer own back as well for if Killingsworth was involved, so then must be Lord Robert Darnly and no one is safe.  Where might I be able to reach ye?"

" Ye can find me at the Shipp Inn , I will be there untill dawn " said Striker looking into Mr. March's eyes

"I am sorry that I cannot say more , but I have had some unpleasent experiences before when not addressing the person that needed to be "

Striker gives a bow to Mr. March and bids farewell " I will wait for the answer . Goodbye to ye , Sir " And then walks away from March that also bid him farewell.

Maybe Striker should have told March about what he knew , The officer looked as he was loyal to his captain , not like other Lieutenants he had the dubious pleasure of meeting . No , maybe it was best not to tell him . Only time will show.

[Ian Finn]

As we sat under the fruit trees in a quiet corner of the property, we could hear two men above and behind us speaking in low tones.

"I am unable to tell ye where the Captain is currently under the watchful eye of our surgeon. Unfortunately the same family that has suffered the grave loss of Mistress Shea is also the same providing shelter for the Captain. Some how Killingsworth has linked the two together and yer new threat may do the same as well, thus neither the Captain, Mistress McKinney or this family may be safe.

"

"KILLINGSWORTH?!?!?" we both whisper loudly to each other. Peering through the trees, we barely raise our heads above the wall. Two men dressed in Captain's finery continue to speak although more hushed than before. Both men were about 2 metres tall. One with dark hair and a full beard, the other has short dark hair but wearing a brace of 8 pistols. Putting his hands on his hips, the man with pistols seems like he has more to say, but does not. Sliding back into the trees Liam and I stare at each other for several moments.

[Tess St. Claire]

Tess stood in the middle of the street as several soldiers ran off after the two ruffians. She was more than upset. Her face showed signs of hostile intent as the taller of the two soldiers continued to ask questions. “When did you find him dead M’Lady?” Tess shot the soldier a look. “Why do you waste my time with such questions? I shall go to the local magistrate myself if you continue to waste more time. They are getting away and I am shocked and appalled that I must defend my actions to you. I am Lady Tess St. Claire! Port Royal is becoming a vat of disgusting low lives! If it were for my dealings with the local sugar cane farmers I would leave here tomorrow.” She shook her head with disbelief. “I swear that God himself should destroy this ‘Sodom and Gomorra’! I cannot believe such men exist in this world. Who would ever think of killing a man and stealing him from his death bed?!” She pressed her finger into the soldier’s jacket. “I expect them to be caught and the body brought back to me! If you don’t there shall be head to roll!” With that, she turned and reentered the Inn.

[Andrew March]

With a proper bow, Andrew March turned, leaving Striker and made his way quickly back to the ship. Already Hazzards and the two Merriweather brothers were waiting in the captain's cabin.

"Did he be tellin ye?" Hazzards asked as March entered the small room and closed the door behind him. Andrew shook his head as he removed a duplicate key to the Captain's chest from around his neck.

"Nay, he did not, but," and Andrew paused with a shake of his head, amazed still himself. " I believe him."

He quickly inserted the key, listened to the mechanics of the trunk's lock grind in release, and then he lifted the heavy lid.

"Where tis Michael?" March asked.

Sean Merriweather answered. "Down below, having a bit of a drink."

The younger brother could only roll his eyes at the thought of the great beast.

"Good," March said gently removing a wooden case and carefully placing it on the table. Producing a second, smaller key, he opened the case before him and removed, of all things, a violin. The instrument was carefully laid upon the table as March hastily scribbled a brief note, folded the slip of paper and placed it inside the violin's body. The instrument was then carefully replaced within its case and locked. March looked at the older brother.

"Mr. Hazzards has told ye what to do, has he not?" Andrew asked.

"Aye sir," Sean replied.

"Right then," March said, next fetching a brace of pistols already primmed and loaded. These he tucked into Sean's belt and then carefully handed the lad the violin case. "Bring this to him and tell him we need an answer. Tis all ye need to do... ye know where to go in order to meet up with the people who are watching him. They will take ye to the Captain they will," March said, tapping the bone by the corner of his left eye.

Sean Merriweather nodded.

"And as fer ye," March said taking a third pistol and tucking it into Joshua Merriweather's belt as well. "Off with ye. Ye know to take Michael for a long walk where ever he will, just so's ye be not headin in the same direction as Sean once ye separate. Where be my fiddle case?"

"Tis with Michael Mr. March," Joshua said with a sigh.

"Good then, do not be forgetting it... and don't be shooting yer foot off!" March warned as the lads, each with a haphazzard bow, turned and went about their odd duties. March quickly turned and locked up the chest, returning both keys about his neck and tucking them within his shirt.

"Who will be following them?" March asked as he looked once more to Hazzards.

"Watch over the elder I will, until he is safe with Le Cour's people, " the second officer answered. "Gunner will keep an eye on the younger. Tis good he is at following without being noticed," he added.

"Very well then. See it done," March said, dismissing the other man to go about his duties. "And make damn sure the younger doesn't go shooting hisself!"

[Captain Striker]

Striker started to walk towards the Shipp Inn . It was busy at the docks before , but not in comparison to now . The amount of people walking and working seemed to have tripled. It seemt as if one was walking on quicksand , for every step one took one was pushed back two .

Striker had a feeling of being watched . He was pushing himself through the crowd for a while , but the feeling would not seem to go away. He decided to go through the small alleyes where he could disapear .

He made several different turns in the alleys amongst beggars and old hags that made the alleys their home . After twenty minutes of deliberate walking around in the maze like back alleys he knew he would be in front of the square where the Shipp Inn was located.

Striker walked out on the square and continued to walk towards the two story building . Striker walked inside the Inn and found a table with it's bench against the wall and a view to the entrance.He sat down and took his tobbaco pouch and pipe out . Ordered a glass of port and started the wait . He was sure that the twins would not dare to do anything in here , besides Striker was prepaired. He had taken out 2 pistols out of his brace and laid them on the sides of him on his seat.

The smoke from his pipe started to wail the features of his face , half man and half shaddow .

[Liam Finn]

After the men had walked away, Ian spoke, "Ya tink at bugger we put inna barrel be this Killinsworth?" I nodded, "I do brudder I do... Wonder who dis cap'n and miss McKinney are?" Ian thinks for a moment, "I guess they's wrapped up in a mess, right wit ol Killinsworth, who been killed already." I nod and chuckle "Aye. . . . Lets hope tha owner o th Shipp Inn don't tink he got off on givin us our room. Now lets see wot we got ere in this ere govners fancy house. " I put my fingers to my lips and Ian smiles and nods. We creep out from the trees to the back of the mansion and see if there is a window or door open. After a short search we end up at the door. "Locked up tighter den a drum, looks like we gotta break in." Says Ian. "Aye, we can bust th lock on this door I bet, both gotta yank hard. " So we grab hold of the door and pull and yank til the door frame splinters. "Ha ha. . . We're in. Quietly now brudder." We head in slowly and wait to hear any noise. A minute passed, there is nothing. We slowly search the house and not a soul to be found. "Looks like we be home brudder, but stay away from th windows. " Ian nods again. We continue to look through the house, pocketing small silver items. in the one cupboard I find a canvas sack. "Ian, I found us a sack! fill this up easy we can. I'm sure there be someone round ere ta buy all this silver." I chuckle and he starts to giggle so I hit him and put my finger to my lips. "Shhhh!!! Not so loud ya fool! Quietly, quietly." He chokes back a laugh and we begin to put candlesticks in the sack.

[Capt. Sterling]

“Mistress McKinney,” he began quietly. Sterling looked upon her again, this time avoiding looking directly into her eyes. “I have had something drawn up which will add the child to my will and allow for his maintenance as he grows. I will not be delinquent where our son is concerned. I shall have copies made, signed and given over to your keeping, but you may see what I have proposed in what Meagan had been so kind to write on my behave.” He waited a moment as Lilly looked to the paper he indicated and went to read it. “I need to know what you plan to do regarding his upbringing… you know you may be forced to name me as the father. I will not dispute your claim.”

“They shall whip you about the parish at the end of a cart,” Lilly commented as she read the provisions he was all too generous with.

“Perhaps,” he corrected her. “Tis a chance I shall take,” he said. He shifted uncomfortably. “I am certain they can do me no more harm than my previous captors. And then again, I may be spared such treatment depending on what frame of mind takes my father when he is told of such a judgment.”

[Aurore Devareaux]

Sabastian watched the interchange with close inspection hidden under semi-nochalant outward bearing. He would remain in Sphinx like manner unless something arose that commanded otherwise. His sight drifted to Sterling and in no way was he envious of current position. As proclamations were given by petit beauty and confessions delivered in kind; Sabastian silently mused on what was already known of her and what was being revealed.

There was no contradicting the fact that she was quite pleasing to the eye and it could easily be deduced how a man could fall to her charms without overmuch prompting. But, Sabastian could not neglect the nagging reminder of a past encounter with a beguiling creature much like the one before him. Not that he carried much regret in the trysts that had taken place, but as enchanting as said meetings had been, there had always been an air of condacending nature giving soured flavoring to what should have been bliss.

Oh how she had pleaded when announcement was made that he would never again play puppet to her whims. Looking back in retrospect, Sabastian realized what true worth he had been to the girl in question. Perhaps this situation was different, and he cared not to place judgements where none were asked.

This battle square lay strictly betwixt the two factions on four poster encampment and regardless of his concern for Aurore's stake, Sabastian would keep his peace. Whatever culumated and drew fated outcome would be delt with when the accord, for better or worse, was brought to conclusion.

And thus Sabastian remained, Egyptian relic rendered in flesh until the subject of unknown child entered the field. Slight animation fleeted his features and seating was shifted in response.

The stakes had just been raised...

[Aurore Devareaux]

“When they finally caught up to us and I was able to escape, I managed to talk me way into the service of a wealthy couple, who were bound for Port Royal. After the mistress fell ill and passed during the passage, I was relieved of my duties and looked toward other means… Or should I say “the usual means” of turning a profit.... Somehow I find myself here.”

Then allowing a quiet laugh. “If he could only see me now, sitting in such a place with the very best of company, might I add… Grady would have split a stitch.”

Aurore listened intently to companion's telling of origin and destination obtained. He had hinted in semi-obscure reference to what he might know of her household and Aurore resisted the temptation to gently prod him into greater detail of his knowledge.

Being as it had been stated what his means of commerce procurement had been with Jamaican arrival, there was no doubt in her thinkings that Reiley may have some insight to the enigma and charade that was carefully maintained. The question lay in how much of it he truly smoked out.

She regarded him with kindly expression at his compliment, her delicate brow's raising a degree.

"You are to kind in your words, Monsieur. In other areas of the world, there would be many be quick to negate your evaluation of our company, as it were."

[Rateye]

"How right you are m-Lady." nodded Reiley, as he took another drink. "But that's the problem with those who have never gone hungry, taken a chance or known fear... In their world, it's easy to hide behind a locked door or paper-thin wall, thus allowing them to cast judgement as they frantically pray that the ravenous world dosn't swoop down, carry them off and feed them to the ever-hungry darkness..."

"If they only knew what they were missing..." grinned Reiley, as he lifted his glass to Aurore. "Wouldn't you agree, m-Lady?"

[Aurore Devareaux]

Aurore found the Reiley's companionship was of delightful qualities. His wit, insight and charm most welcome in light of the unknown taking place on the second floor. She laughed with his last observation, so confidently rendered, " Oui, Monsieur...I am to think the there are many that are poor for opportunity missed."

She left the comfortable give of sofa support to retrieve waiting decanter. Refilling Reiley's glass, then her own, the crystal vessel was placed near at hand. Regaining former seating, Aurore regarded him thoughtfully for a momment, sampling from amber refinement.

"And now you find yourself in Capitaine Sterling's company...I think it is an advantagous situation for you both. I thank you again for your dilagence in regard to his wellfare, Monsuier..." her eyes drifted to away briefly. "I know that you might say it is an act of duty, but it means much to me and if there is a need that I might fulfill in order to show my appreciation for your skills, please do not hesitate to ask."

[Rateye]

"Indeed.....? Paused Reiley, as he began to remember the tasks he was preparing, "Before the assassination attempt of my good captain, I was looking to the procurement of medicines and supplies in prepration for our venture.... Mayhaps m-Lady has the needed resources for aquiring such physic properties?"

[Ransom]

I lay in my hammock, trying to get some much needed rest, while mulling over events. I was surprised at the crew's obvious enjoyment of Ioan's punishment. I knew the man was unpopular, but I had no idea how much so. Once he'd recovered a bit, I would dismiss him from his duties and order him off the ship.

Then what? I needed to get out of Port Royal. I needed to get rid of that blasted cannon, and get the Rakehell out to sea. The coin I'd received for Killingsworth's jeweled snuff box had gone a fair way to paying off the merchants, but there was still not enough food for a long voyage, and there was definitely not enough rum.

"Blast and damn Morgan," I muttered. "A fine cannon sitting on your doorstep, and you can't be bothered to even take a look at it."

My thoughts were interrupted by a knock on my cabin door. "Yes?"

Africa stuck his head in. "He gone, Capain."

I slipped out of the hammock. "When?"

"Das a few minutes ago. As you order, I did no shoot him."

Knowing Ioan was likely to jump ship, I had rescinded my previous order to shoot him, and instructed the crew to let him go. "Good riddance to him."

Africa nodded. "He was bad fo' the ship, Captain. He always talkin' and stirin' up trouble. I be glad he gone. So be te others."

"Yes, well he may be gone, but I doubt that's the end of the trouble he'll stir up. We need to get the Rakehell out of this God-awful harbor." I ran my fingers through my hair, pushing back the long ropes of curls, trying to decided what to do. I needed to talk to someone more familiar with the city than I was. Someone who might have connections the authorities didn't know about.

"Africa, go down to the hold and bring up a bottle from my private stock. I have a bottle of Burgundy to deliver to a certain professor."