Port Royal, Jamaica

[Ransom]

"Oh, far be it from me to interupt your sordid little affair." Lady Violet turned to her speechless and wide-eyed servants. "Come, Children. You must ignore this unfortunant scene." And with her chest thrust forward, Lady Violet continued on her way down the stairs, out the door to the street, and the waiting carriage.

"Bloody woman," I growled.

With Aunt Violet's condemming look, the lighthearted mood with which I had left Sebastian's chamber, vanished. It was replaced by all the anger and frustration that had roiled through my mind when I'd met Sebastian on the stairs late the previous night. There was also resentment. I resented the fact that she could make me feel thus. I owed my family nothing, since they had held no loyalty for me. Yet her scathing rebuke made me feel...guilty. As if what Sebastian and I had shared was something ugly, when in trueth, it was the happiest time I'd spent in years.

No, I would not succumb to her scorn. I was no longer the innocent child of sixteen she remembered. I had survived two years on a ship as a hostage, and five as owner of my own schooner. I had seen and done things that would make matrons of The Quality reach for their smelling salts, and their husbands reach for their weapons. The person I was now would never again fit into genteel society — let along marry back into it.

As Lady Violet marched down the stairs, I turned to Sebastian, who had remained silent. "Come, let us go down to breakfast. I will explain."

[Aurore Devareaux]

Sabastian watched after Matron and percession, keeping his peace though just under cool visage there lay a boiling point. Temptation had presented itself to counter and defend, but deep in the stirrings of mental machinery, he knew that Lover would not care overmuch for gallant actions likened to Chavalier Blanc...In truth, instinct said that such might cause an inkling of resentment; Ransom was no helpless damsel in distress. So he kept his place and stilled his tongue which lay restless to the possibilities of retort.

"Come, let us go down to breakfast. I will explain."

Ransom's words broke his center and inward wrestling regarding Aristo departure,full attention returned to her. Again mental cogs and gears began synchronized motion and Sabastian came close to voicing that no explanation was needed...Not through the guise of apathy, but rather due to respect of secrets. Secrets were strange, but intimate bedfellows that he knew quite well.

With silent nod of accord, arm was proffered in act of proper poise...

[Ransom]

Sebastian's offer of his arm cooled my anger. It was such a gallaunt gesture, that it brought a smile to my face. Mayhap by instinct he was showing me that my Aunt's assessment of our laison was wrong. There was nothng sordid about Sebastian, or how we had spent our evening.

I slipped my arm through his, and placed my hand lightly on his forearm. Regal as any lord and lady, we decended the stairs to the common room.

[Aurore Devareaux]

Quick survey was made of Common and current occupants before table of familiar standing was reoccupied. Chair was drawn to allow her seating before his own was procured with undisturbed view of the surround. Still Sabastian held his peace, dark eyes giving visual caress to her face as he waited patiently. Prying was not his want, and if she decided to venture not on ealier comment, he would abide.

Serving girl approached with slight hesitation, displeasure fleeting expression when Dauphin's compaion was guaged. Requests were issued, followed by hasty retreat...

Narrowed glance cast to Chosen as kitchen was gained.

[Aurore Devareaux]

Reiley left the way he had come, silently, allowing the woman, he had found to be so strong, the privacy she so needed to mourn for the moment, then pick herself back up in order to continue trying vigil.

But as vigil progressed onward simultaneously with day‘s own, roi grew more and more still. Soon Reiley was hastily summoned back to the bedroom. He could do little but wring his hands, pacing back and forth as patient’s breathing grew more shallow and then laboured.

With shake of head, doctor pronounced he no longer knew what to do.

Word was quickly sent to Andrew March and Matthew Hazzards, that they were to make to the Sterling household with all due speed.

Christophe leaned on portal frame expression unmoving, though the slate tincture of predatory eyes kept close watch over chamber happenings. The Summons had redirected bearing and destination achieved here at Dubois' relay. Frenchman continued to carry no love for the man on yon ticking, but the one that tended needs was an Achilles heel that could not be denied.

It was for her that he stifled his true thoughts, resisted the deep desire to let all take its' course and ensure rival's dismissal; it was a begrudging task and duty of loyalty that he minded now. Under breath, titles kindred to "fool" intermittently crept the stagnant chamber's existence; silent as a dying man's last breath. The depth's of olive liquid pools pleaded for understanding and obey was what his soul commanded.

Aurore spoke in softened tone's to Mari's unconscious hearing; words of encouragement, words of devotion...words of pain tinged render. All to no avail did such endeavor seem to induce. But with tear laden eyes, she leaned close to near ear and whispered truths thus far hidden. In desperate measure, of desperate revelations....words of last strategic play sallied for in heart wrenched plea....

"You cannot leave me....You must return to this existence...."

Weighty liquid diamond fell on pallid brow.

"We are no longer two....There is a third to consider......"

[Andrew March]

Word was quickly sent to Andrew March and Matthew Hazzards, that they were to make to the Sterling household with all due speed.

“What be all that infernal yelling about?” March complained as he could easily hear it even below decks. As if in answer, the younger of the two midshipmen rushed down to find the first officer.

“Mr. March, sir. There is a man here from the Bookstore wishing to speak with you,” Joshua Merriweather replied. March looked down at the young boy, large brown eyes wide with his excitement. “He says tis urgent that he speak with you, sir.”

“Tell him I’ll come topside in a moment. Go on with ye lad!” March said with a nod of approval. He waited until the boy was gone then, looked at Matthew Hazzards. “Ye know well what to do Mr. Hazzards. I will return as soon as I can."

Once again on deck, March walked to where he saw the younger Merriweather standing patiently beside a strange man. He dipped his head slightly in greeting.

“Ye be one of them?” March asked. “Of the new Mistress’s clan?”

“Aye,” the man replied. “I’ve brought a note from the household. I was told it was of great importance,” he continued, holding out a sealed paper. March took it with a word of thanks. Glancing over the front, he broke the seal and opened it. Its announcement was not long, its words hastily scribbled in only a few incomplete sentences. March read it, paling slightly as he did. Without any movement, his eyes reading once again the disturbing news, March called the younger midshipman to him.

“Mr. Merriweather, please tell Mr. Hazzards to come see me immediately. Make haste now lad!”

[Robert B. Darnly]

Lord Darnly sat secluded in his study with nary a candle to give comfort. The manor was deathly quiet except for the low muffled weeping which be heard from the far end of the hall. Darnly drew a deep sigh and his face fell into his hands. He rubbed his eyes and drew another deep breath as to comfort him. Another glass of port passed his lips. This too, gave little comfort.

What to do? He thought to himself. He had never been mindful of such things for they had never occurred to him. Life went on around him though he never was one acknowledge such unpleasantness. He drew open the top drawer of his desk. There wrapped in a linen handkerchief was a single lock of red hair. A sharp sudden pain struck Lord Darnly’s heart. Was this regret? Was this dread? He knew not. All he knew was that he was feeling much woeful pain more than any man should.

A knock came at his study’s door. “Enter.” He said as he quickly placed the lock of hair into his pocket. As he looked up, it was the nursemaid. “I have made the arrangements, my Lord.” He could tell that even in the dim light she had still been crying. “Is there anything else, my Lord?”

Lord Darnly’s face fell once again to a sullen state. “No. Nothing, thank you.” Once again, the house drew quiet, and cold. As the study door drew shut, Darnly pulled from his pocket the red lock of hair and he fell to his knees. “Lilly, I am truly sorry. This was never supposed to happen. What am I to do?”

In the far end of the manor stood the nursery in a calm and peaceful state. The nursemaid stood over the child, giving comfort to where no comfort could be given. The soft sounds of a lullaby came from her as she prepared the child dress. “God Speed to you sweet Hector.” She whispered then drew the shroud over him.

[Andrew March]

"You sailors! For mariners ye spend far too much time on horseback!" The livery owner groused as March and Hazzards asked for his fastest mounts.

"Ifn our coin be as good as the next lot, what difference would it be making to ye?" Hazzards said. "Lining yer pocket all the same, I'd be thinkin," he added as he slammed several down upon the counter top.

The owner frowned. "I shall see to yer horses and by the by, see that my other horse is returned. I did not let it out for forever!"

Horses were finally produced after what seemed an eternally long delay. The two ship's officers mounted, March realized suddenly that neither man knew exactly where they were going. Haste was made first to the bookstore.

[Lilith]

“If I do not have it in less than an hour’s time I will carve out your eyes, cut out your tongue and send you over the edge of this ship as chum!”

“All I asked was one little thing, ‘tis all!” She said again, addressing the lifeless body of her first mate, Twiggs. “Now how can I face that demon Pinon without the Dutch letters?!” She quickly took a seat upon her bunk as her monkey quickly came to her side. Its’ nervous chatter began to try her nerves. “Shall I kill you too?” Lilith uttered in a rough tone tossing it down from her shoulder. It was then the monkey pulled at the bedding on the bed. “I do not have time to take a nap you foolish creature!” Then spotted between the pillow and ticking a small note. On a pale piece of parchment were the words; “Looking for something?” etched in rough hand.

She was in no mood for games. Yet, her life was at stake and fearing the rath of Pinon was not something she would take lightly. “Very well.” She muttered as she turned over her linen once more. “Someone on my crew has a death wish, but I will not be out foxed.” From the side panel of her desk she quickly pulled several documents from it. As she quickly ran her hands over each one, she quickly pulled two documents, which were drafted by a Dutch hand. “These will do…for now.” Lilith quickly grabbed her dirk and pistol and headed back to the Inn to meet with Pinon before it was too late.

[Cheeky Actress]

With letter in hand, Lilly continued up the hill to see if she could not obtain a solicitor. She opened the crumpled letter again looking at the date and the signature attached. The crowded streets made for a slow journey. Lilly almost stumbled if it were not for the kind actions of a well-dress man.

“Are you all right?” The sweet tone of a Scottish accent made her turn quickly towards the voice. Her smiled soon faded when she realized that it was not the sea captain to whom she befriend only a day earlier. The man stood there watching Lilly’s reaction. “I am sorry. How rude of me.” He said bowing low.

“My name is Lewis Hutchison. I am a landlord here in Port Royal. May I be some assistance to you, Lady?” Lilly’s eyes met with his. “Such a kind face.” She thought to herself. “It would be poor behavior not to show the same in kind.” With a pause, she smiled back. “I am Mistress Lilly McKinney.”

[CrazyCholeBlack]

The captain’s blue eyes held the Welshman’s for a moment before dropping to Jane’s. His stern expression softened ever so slightly as he looked down at her. His arm disengaged from her tight grasp, wrapping protectively around her shoulders instead. Inwardly Striker wondered if he shouldn’t have let the girl leave. Surely the growing bruise could have been avoided if she had remained on the ship. His first thought had been that the two had another altercation with the Spanish but Jane’s slurred confession had eliminated that concern for the time being.

“ I will expect an explanation later . ” Striker looked pointedly back at Ioan who involuntarily cringed at having to explain Jane’s battered state to the Dane. Curt orders were passed on to Lauritzen as the Captain ushered Jane to his quite cabin for an anesthetic drink.

[Ransom]

Ioan took the captains rebuke. He'd expected it, even though he could not have prevented the lady's condition. If opportunity presented itself, he would explain, but doubted it would make any difference.

With a resigned shrug, and a wink at Jane, he returned to what duties were appointed to him. Secretly, he hoped he would not be assigned as her guard dog again.

[Andrew March]

Instructions were finally relayed as to where abouts of new home. At first clan members were reluctant, old habits were hard to break, even when them that had asked were known to be who they claimed. Still March could not help but feel his temper grow warm with each hesitation, they knew well enough that Sterling was dying, and yet they were still more concerned with their own. It was with a forced word of thanks that the first officer left the bookstore and remounted his horse, joining the impatiently waiting Matthew Hazzards.

"What is it with these people?" Hazzards asked as March swung himself up into the saddle.

"They give not a damn except fer themselves," March replied. "The new mistress is a rare bird amongst their company. Come along. We've wasted enough time," he added moving his horse forward.

[Cheeky Actress]

“My name is Lewis Hutchison. I am a landlord here in Port Royal. May I be some assistance to you, Lady?” Lilly’s eyes met with his. “Such a kind face.” She thought to herself. “It would be poor behavior not to show the same in kind.” With a pause, she smiled back. “I am Mistress Lilly McKinney.”

Lewis Hutchison was a kind man and a resourceful one at that. He suggested a solicitor who would be fair and reasonable with the situation at hand. Less than one block away laid a small office where Lewis Hutchinson as kind to escort me. “You are too kind, Sir.” Lilly said as Mister Hutchison opened the door to the office for her. There sitting behind a large desk was a man dressed in Dutch silk and perusing over several scrolls and documents.

After the formal introductions were made, Lilly took a seat next to the solicitor’s side and commenced with her request. “It lays very heavy upon my mind that my son, a fine lovely boy, has no provision made for him, at least that I know of.” Lilly handed the solicitor the letter.

“My Lady?” Asked the solicitor with and inquiring tone as he reviewed the letter which Lilly had given him. “You say that you have a son that needs to be provided for. Are you aware that the man whom you claim to be the father of your child has instructed that both you and the child would be cared for in kind? Why do you seek me out?”

I seek your advice, sir for I am without means as of the moment. Is it not possible that some of the funds be forward to me?”

The solicitor looked cautiously at Mister Hutchinson. “This would take time, Lady.” Lilly began to cast with herself on how she would live, and in what manner to bestow herself, for the residue of her life.

“Sir, I have come to you hoping that you would bestow some word of hope. I am in a strange place without friends or kith. I have less than 100 pounds to my name. I ask you just advance me enough for passage back to England.” The two men looked at each other briefly.

“I am no banker, Lady. If you are looking for charity, I say seek out the church.”

Lilly’s eyes once again darted up to Mister Hutchinson. “I think we are done here, sir.” With that, she quickly took her letter from the solicitor’s hand and departed from the room with haste.

[Cheeky Actress]

In a quickened pace, Lilly made her way once again through the crowded streets. “Mistress McKinney,” shouted Mister Hutchison who quickly followed suit and finally caught up with her within the crowd. Lilly was completely oppressed with what had occurred in the solicitor’s office and could not speak to him a word, good or bad, for quite some time; but at last she burst out into tears. “Lord! Mister Hutchinson, what must I do?”

“Do?!” he said remembering the advice of the solicitor. “Send for a minister and talk with him; for, indeed, Mistress McKinney, unless you have very good friends, you are no woman for this world.”

This was plain dealing indeed, but it was very harsh to hear, at least Lilly thought it so. Mister Hutchison left her in the greatest confusion imaginable. The very idea of her going into a church and pegging pardon of her sins pressed upon her heart. She never brought herself to any sense of her being a miserable sinner, as indeed she was, and confessing her sins to God, and begging pardon for the sake of Jesus Christ seemed so foreign to her.

‘Lord, what will become of me? Lord! What shall I do? Lord, have mercy upon me!’ Lilly again cried out. It as then Mister Hutchison extended his arm; he was such a good gentleman. He was so moved by Lilly actions and state of affairs that he was convinced that it was by God’s very hand that he had found her and resolved not to leave her till her knew that she was solvent and well provided for.

[Cheeky Actress]

Lewis Hutchison was a man with certain priorities. Before him stood the very thing that enticed him by his low nature and yet, made him struggle with his better half.

He also knew that if he did not help this poor wretched woman she would fall into the very pit of despair she dreaded. Though, Port Royal was not London, it did have its’ element of unsavory characters. Cut purses, whores, degenerates and beggars filled the streets near the lower end of town. If he did not help her she would find herself a whore or a thief soon enough. How long would it be before she would get caught up, burned in the hand, and sentenced to be transported off as an indentured servant? Not a life for anyone who has tasted the finer things in life.

He watched her wipe her tears and took his arm as he presented to her. As they walked his mind, once again, began to play out a tail. If he were to befriend her and help her in her situation, it would all be far too easy for him to claim her as another candidate for his sport. A pale expression soon came over his face. “What ever is wrong, Mister Hutchinson? Lilly asked looking at him. “’Tis nothing, Mistress McKinney. I shall see to it that you shall have your money for your journey.” With bright expression, Lilly paced slowed and she smiled lightly. “You Sir are a good Christian indeed! I am very fortunate that God has blessed me your company.” “Indeed.” Said Mister Hutchinson as they continued down the street.

[Cheeky Actress]

As Mister Hutchinson departed from the exchange, he now presented a sizable amount to Lilly. It now became evident to her that the situation itself had become an awkward one. Taking money in good faith was one thing, but this man, and he was truly a man in all sense of the word, could now hold this one kind act over her. What was she to do? Money in trade for services? She thought to herself, knowing all too well what that implied. But that was her ill-self thinking poorly of such a spirited Christian. Why think bad of him? He was kind enough to help her and she should be grateful of it.

“Mister Hutchinson. You have been ever so kind in your charity. I am at the very mercy of you.” Mister Hutchinson cleared his throat and smiled, again bowing in kind. “It is a great honor to do such a kindly act.” He mused. “Come, we should be off to the docks to seek out a ship which will depart for England.

It was then Mister Hutchinson froze. “Mistress, I think it best to wait until tomorrow. The docks are so busy this time of day and I am sure that you would manage a better dealing with the Captain’s if you were to arrive early to discuss such business.” Lilly’s eyes explored his face. Once again, she saw his gentle nature showing through. “Yes, of course, you know what ‘tis best.”

“I have a carriage just down the way. Is there any place you need to go?” She nodded and pointed down the road. “I am staying at The Three Crown Inn. I have lodgings until the end of the week.” “Good.” He said offering his arm again. “Does anyone know you are there?” She turned and looked at him puzzled. “No. No one who cares for my well being.” She said quickening her pace. “So, there is someone who knows you are here?” He uttered in a low whisper. “Sir, the person does not care a lick about me. If he’s so incline about the betterment of my position, I would not be standing here before you at your mercy.” “Indeed.” Mister Hutchinson said with a slight nod.

[Lady Violet Cunningham]

Lady Violet was not happy with the way the interview with her niece had gone. She had known the girl to be stubborn, especially when it came to matters of marriage. Even a year in Italy hadn't produced a man willing to take her to wife. And here was the woman, even more stubborn than the child, refusing a perfectly good offer and a chance to return to her family home.

However, now that Lady Violet had seen her wayward niece, she had serious misgivings on whether she could ever fit into society again. She was quite sure her neice had committed unspeakable deeds, and the cold set of her eyes told of unspeakable things done to her. For all she might wish it, Lady Violet could not picture the woman who had flung the whiskey glass, sitting politely among a group of gossiping ladies.

As the coach bumbled along toward Trade Winds, Lady Violet resigned herself to the fact that it was highly unlikely that her niece would call on her again. Especially after that horrid scene in the hall at the Royal Grace. As much as she deplored the obviouse fact that the two had spent the night together, Lady Violet could not help but notice that the man was exceedingly handsome - in a dark, rather mysterious way.

"I wonder who he is?" she muttered, and gave Sugar a little pat on the head.

Sugar thanked her mistress for this attention by drooling on her silk dress.

[Robert B. Darnly]

“You must send word to her at once!” Shouted Lord Sterling. “Her child has past away and you haven’t the decency to inform her of the dreadful news?

Lord Darnly’s fits now were clinched with every word Lord Sterling threw at him. “By God, man...” He said finally throwing his hands up in frustration. “”Tis my son’s child, too!”

Poised in his large sitting chair, Lord Darnly lent forward and inched Lord Sterling closer. “Yes, your son’s child, ‘tis true. But the young babe that lies in the cold dark earth is no more Tess St. Claire’s child as it ‘tis mine.”

With a strong looking of disbelief, Lord Sterling stood back for a moment. “What say you? What revolting game are you playing here?” “’Tis not a game, William I assure you. I fear that my horrible deeds have now taken a dreadful turn. The child belongs to the actress, Lilly McKinney; the woman whom your son favored so.”

Lord Sterling shook his head with doubt. “You sir are most vile, indeed. To do such a thing and over a woman who cares nothing for you!”

It was then Lord Darnly quickly stood from his chair. “Hypocrite! Shall I remind you of one lovely creature that we both favored interest in? Yes, sir. Tis true! It was not long ago that we both fell in love with her, yet you were the one who broke the very heart of the woman we both loved and pursued. And in the end, you cast her away into the streets with no means nor support for her and her bastard son. Do not claim yourself righteous, William. You are a horrid man...as am I.”

[Cheeky Actress]

Lilly had taken blessings for granted in the past. It was easy enough for someone to fall from one station and into another. But now she was hung in the balance. What would cause a person to fall from their haughty heights? It was easy enough and anyone with the misfortune could very likely be in her place.

It could happen to anyone. Born in simple keep and held the station until the death of her father and mother. The threat of Newgate was always looming over her as she made sure not to be caught begging in certain areas of Covenant Gardens or Drury Lane. It was a dreadful time.

Yet, she a mind of being a proper lady and with the help of her benefactor, the Empress, she was made into the thing that men long for. “What little talent there is between a proper Lady and a whore.” Lilly thought to herself. “Had it not been for greed and selfishness I would not be here. “Now, my lover casts me aside for a whelp of a pup and left alone in this God forsaken place.” It was then she turned to Mister Hutchinson who sat next to her at the table. “I shall send you the fare of my journey as soon as I land back in London. There are many who will assist me and once I am back upon the London stage you will see that..” “London stage?” Mister Hutchinson blurted out as he almost choked upon his beer. “Yes sir. You heard me correctly. I have performed before the King himself.”

Mister Hutchinson’s manner soon grew quiet. “I am sorry, Mistress. I did not know that you were a Lady of quality.” With a sigh and a raised eyebrow she lifted her glass to her lips. “Yes, a Lady of quality, indeed. There are many here in Port Royal that do not think the way you do, Sir.”

[Aurore Devareaux]

Simple meal arrived as ordered, tiffed serving girl vanishing into the midst of late morning's throng. Being mindful of manners, Sabastian waited patiently for Ransom to make selections from fruit offering before obtaining a mango from bowl center. He admired it's perfection of color and shape briefly then sampled pungent sweetness. Wooden cup was refilled while slow savor relished, all the while scanning the room's content intermittently.

Veiled scrutiny had caressed Ransom's feature, the slight changes of expression that reflected the thoughts occupying her mind...and still he kept his peace. Her announcement of marriage from the night just passed tugged at the edges of mind's eye, coupled with cross wordings relayed in hallway above. Sabastian was quite aware of who Matron was, though he doubted quite heavily that she could say the same in regards to himself.

Subconscious drew slow conclusions, laying enigmatic puzzle pieces into placement....fitting one, discarding another, rearranging and discarding, again. The more things made sense, the less they did and his brow furrowed minutely to the quandary...

[Cheeky Actress]

The meal was enjoyable one. Lilly had gleaned many things from her years of ‘instruction’. One of them was the art of conversation. It was not that difficult to master. “Remember, men fancy themselves and their money. The two go hand and hand; therefore remember to bring the conversation around to them. They will never tire of the subject.”

“Do you miss Scotland?” Lilly asked Mister Hutchinson as she poured another glass of beer for him. “Aye that I do. There are many things I miss about home that are sorely lacking here in Jamaica. I could do with a nice cold clean rain once in a while.” Lilly watched his smile become wider. “Damn heat can be most unbearable, don’t you think?”

Then it was his turn to ask the questions. “Now how does a lady of your position and station come here to Port Royal?” The conversation between the two of them suddenly came to a halt.

What was she to say? There were many here in Port Royal that knew too much of her tale already. She was not in the mood to enlighten one more soul. “A business transaction, nothing more.” She muttered as she took a final bite of her meal.

[Andrew March]

Ride was accomplished but it had required hours, frustrated by needful slow walks to allow their horses to catch their breath before being pushed onward. Unlike La Cour’s members, that knew about homes along any route where fresh mounts could be obtained, the Archangel’s officers were only given the most necessary of details to get from point A to point B.

It was already late afternoon by the time March and Hazzards and spent mounts, with lathered hides and heaving flanks, successfully reached their destination. Servants came forth to see to care of rented animals, the only greeting, extended by Chestnut, who, out grazing, recognized old companions.

In silence, Lieutenants were ushered into the front hall of the house, where once again they were forced to wait, strangers in an even stranger world.

“Why we ever allowed him to get himself caught up in this web,” Hazzards muttered loud enough only for March’s hearing.

“Perchance because he was happy for a change?” the first officer offered as a response.

Brow clouded as glance was aimed directly at fellow shipmate. “Ye know it as well as I,” Hazzards added. “We both know we be all to blame where the captain’s health be concerned.”

Additional reply was not forthcoming as gentlemen were then shown the way upstairs.

[CrazyCholeBlack]

It only took two glasses of the dark local rum to dull Jane’s throbbing jaw. She slumped slighting in the stiff chair, hands cradling the heavy mug. Exhaustion quickly replaced the constant pain, the excitement of the day finally taking its toll.

“We ken take, La Maligna, ‘round, ta tha yards, in ‘bout a day o two.” Her speech was a mixture of painful gritting and drunken slur. Green eyes fluttered as she struggled to keep awake. “I leff tha mate, tha boy, Westing, ta make tha a-rangmens.”

“ You have done enough for Maligna dear mistress . Now you should rest . ”

“Aye.” Jane agreed sleepily, her eyes settling closed for a long moment before opening again with a start.

Striker’s rough hands slipped over her stiff shoulders, lowering the collar on her gray jacket until the worn material fell free in his hands. Jane pushed a toe against the heel of her shoe, knocking the leather to the floor with a thump, the other following close behind. Thin fingers pulled off the felted cap, leaving it next to the empty mug of rum. She sighed softly as she stood, guided by the captain’s light touch on her elbow to his comfortable bunk.

“Thank you sir.” Jane muttered, a bleary smile on her pink lips as she sunk into the soft bed linens. Every fiber of her body longed for a heavy dreamless sleep. The last thing she felt was Striker’s calloused finger brushing a stray lock of hair from her face as she drifted off.

[Ransom]

Simple meal arrived as ordered, tiffed serving girl vanishing into the midst of late morning's throng. Being mindful of manners, Sabastian waited patiently for Ransom to make selections from fruit offering before obtaining a mango from bowl center. He admired it's perfection of color and shape briefly then sampled pungent sweetness. Wooden cup was refilled while slow savor relished, all the while scanning the room's content intermittently.

Veiled scrutiny had caressed Ransom's feature, the slight changes of expression that reflected the thoughts occupying her mind...and still he kept his peace. Her announcement of marriage from the night just passed tugged at the edges of mind's eye, coupled with cross wordings relayed in hallway above. Sabastian was quite aware of who Matron was, though he doubted quite heavily that she could say the same in regards to himself.

Subconscious drew slow conclusions, laying enigmatic puzzle pieces into placement....fitting one, discarding another, rearranging and discarding, again. The more things made sense, the less they did and his brow furrowed minutely to the quandary...

I was vaguely aware of food being brought, and Sebastian's careful scrutiny. I was also aware of the bar maid's dark glares in my direction, but chose to ignore her, rather than bait her. In my present mood, she would be more a target, than a rival.

I hadn't wanted to discuss the recent revelations brought to my attention by a pretentiously loving aunt, but could hardly withhold an explination now. Since Sebastian had also endured her scorn, he had a right to know why.

I picked up an apple, and began to peel it with a knife. "The woman on the stairs was Lady Violet Cunningham. Apparently she and her husband own a sugar plantation somewhere on the island. She has just arrived from England, and brought me some new of my family."

A long spiral of green peel fell to the table. Carefully, I cut sections from the apple. "Apparently my father and oldest brother have died of smallpox. And, before you offer condolences, rest assured, none are wanted. The man was a beast, and my oldest brother cast in the same mold."

The slices of apple fell, uneaten, to the table along with the peel. "She also brought me a letter." I dropped the knife. "It was an offer of marriage, and the opportunity for me to go home."

I met Sebastian's dark gaze. "I refused."