Rich is Rich, and Scandal can only follow

by Earthia

AU Darcy is unware of Lydia's elopment. A dying Countees leaves everything to the penniless Elizabeth ED JB and ColonelKitty...Continues with their children and newold problems ...better than it sounds. Updated Revised for Grammar ch1-19

1. Chapter 1

Chapter 1

After Hunsford, Mr. Darcy leaves for the continent to rid Miss Elizabeth Bennett from his heart and mind. He is followed by Mr. Bingley, and his sisters, along with Miss Georgiana Darcy and the Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. They have set off for Italy across the continent and no knowledge of Lydia Bennett's elopement has come across Mr. Darcy's path.

The Countess Dearesta de la Chavanne sat on her death bed, with her only companion throughout this past year, Elizabeth Bennett.

Elizabeth had found the Countess in hopes of some menial employment as a means to support her sisters. But when the Countess had come across Elizabeth that fateful day as she was being escorted around by the Housekeeper Mrs. Merriwether she had seen something far greater in the poor girl, and offered it to her, and so from that day forward she would be her companion. The witty and lively spirit that had been so repressed these past months had been reawaken by her time with the Countess, if not emboldened. And in the year following the two women helped each enjoy life in ways that misery often makes you forget.

Time passes at varying speeds it would seem and when things are always at their best it flows with a force, disregarding all attempts to impede it. And had not a wonderful year passed then now did Elizabeth sit next to the dying Countess. The Countess had become many things to Elizabeth, and among them was the sensible mother she had always yearned for. The lessons learned this past year from the woman who lay dying before her out numbered most of what she had learned in her entire life. And now watching her breaths become labored and face become strained Elizabeth could not hold back the wave of tears that washed down her face.

"Ahh, my dear, dear girl, you should not shed your tears for me, for I have lived life," raising her hand she brushed some tears away, "You have been everything I could have wished for in a child, a daughter of my own." Sighing as her hand fell back from Elizabeth's cheek, the strength to hold it there faltering.

The Countess took on a sterner look though as she proceeded, "But I have not always been right in my life decisions. I chose to live a life alone, and with that comes no children of my own, and no comforts that which could be bestowed by love, that was until I found you, my girl," the look in her eyes drifted off and she smiled, "You were quite a wretch when first met, asking for a housekeeping job, but an honorable wretch, not wanting to have your sisters work…Oh, now how are your sisters?"

"They are fine, and thank you for all you have given to myself and them, I'll never forget you, and nor will they," then with a laugh she continued, "I am sure though that Kitty will never forget, of all my sisters."

"Yes, Catherine was quite good fun, I believe she has the potential to be like you."

"Oh, I should hope none of my sisters were to turn out like me," Elizabeth said as she glanced down to her lap. Thinking of her follies and all that could be different from Darcy to Lydia, and the pain that was ever etched in her brow.

"Now Elizabeth, I don't know what could," several awful coughs resounded from the elder woman that shook her chest, but she continued, "prompt you to say such things, but you are wise, witty, kind, and all other things that make a reasonable heiress."

"Excuse me, but I do not believe so," Elizabeth said with a puzzled face.

"You were right until today, for my Lizzy I have left everything to you," she smiled kindly and continued, "You shall be my sole benefactor after my death. Call for Mr. Witton to read you the will. I want to be here when he does."

Elizabeth walked across the ornate bedroom, to the door where she in hushed tones, summoned the Mr. Witton. An elder man, who had seen his fair share in life walked in, followed by a boy of about seventeen. The boy was his apprentice learning everything to one day become the family's lawyer.

Mr. Witton smiled kindly, "Ah, my dear I see we are coming to our ends."

"No Mr. Witton we are coming to our next beginnings. Now read the will to Lizzy…"

From such was this day, that the death of the Countess Daresta de la Chavanne, that the next to her place. In all claims hereafter, the former Miss Elizabeth Bennett had become the adopted daughter and benefactor of the dead Countess, and was now the new Countess. The one Miss Elizabeth Bennett without a cent to her name after her sister, Lydia's disastrous elopement, was now one of the richest women in Europe. She now held property, in Ireland, a large area of northern Scotland, which was titled, land in Ulster, England which was titled, and finally a part of southern France formerly known as Aquitaine.

Elizabeth Bennett, now Countess Elizabeth Chavanne could want for nothing and sitting in her new London townhouse she summoned her remaining sisters to her. Jane, Mary, and Kitty arrived within two days, astounded by what had occurred.

Elizabeth's lawyer, the old Mr. Witton, had each of their names last name changed to Chavanne, and had them drawn up allowances for them. Finally Elizabeth came to the grand finally; she was sending her sisters to the continent for travel. The last thing Elizabeth asked of Mr. Witton was that he please locate her last sister, Lydia. And that our reliable Mr. Witton did.

It had been several months since Elizabeth had inherited from the Countess, and in that time many things had happened. Rumor spreads relatively quickly, so when a new Countess pops out of thin air people seem to gather like a moth to a flame. They came from everywhere to meet this new Countess, and the London streets were buzzing about the Chavannes that seemed to pop up. Not one, but four altogether. Rumor had it, that they were estranged nieces whom the former Countess took into her home, but she left everything to the second sister.

Now the reader must know that due to recent tragic events, Mr. Bennett had died after Lydia's elopement, and as for Mrs. Bennett, she lost her wits when Mr. Collins took over Longbourne. So it is not commonly known what had happened to the remaining daughters. Some claimed they were sent to the workhouse and others, well others claim that they the former respectable have become something less than respected.

Elizabeth fearing what might happen if a visitor should recognize one of them, though she doubted, decided it was time the Chavanne nee Bennett girls do some traveling, and that they did.

Jane was, well Jane, happy to go and glad to be with her sisters, though Jane always hid her true feelings quite well. And Elizabeth feared that Jane's hidden melancholy might last indefinitely.

Mary was elected as navigator, which excited Mary to no end. Never in all her years did her sisters ask anything of her, and now she was too arrange their trip, with no limit on expectation or money.

Kitty, now demanding to be called Catherine since it was a true lady's name, was ecstatic to travel and thrilled, insisting they all get new wardrobes, which Elizabeth obliged, though only this once to spend so frivolously.

The Chavanne sisters had their lives together, they were more happy together than in all the years of sisterhood they had shared yet.

When arriving in Florence, they were exhausted, but with all the expectations and dreams, none could rest. Elizabeth had made arrangements to have a townhouse rented close to the center of Florence.

It had been two days since their arrival, and it was this particular day that seemed to change the course of events.

"Jane you must take Kitty…" Elizabeth begged as Kitty blew through the townhouse determined to have her say in the arrangements of the day. Having noted that Mary had planned a rather dull day, Kitty had begun bright and early in the insistence that they must go out and see the fashions.

"Catherine, I shall be called Catherine, it is my name!" a stern Kitty said from the far side of room, sitting with her arms crossed and nose in the air, much like a child.

"Whether your name is Catherine or Kitty, you are my sister and I will call you as a I please…Kitty," Elizabeth said just as sternly finishing with a sly smile. Kitty muffled a squeal as Mary let a small smile crack.

"Well as I was saying before Kitty, interrupted me was that Jane, you must go out and take Kitty as well. Mary and I have things to be attended to, and I know you want to go…take her to one of the museums of some sort," Elizabeth begged.

"Fine."

"Fine."

The two elder sisters stared at each other each trying to stare the other down, until a loud voice exclaimed, "Wonderful let me get my hat."

Thus Kitty and Jane were off to some chapel or other to look at art. Now one may wonder what appreciation for art could Kitty have, or whether she could behave long enough to stay in a museum without the militia. Well Kitty had changed, after everything which had happened Kitty had matured, and thus was when Lizzy saw her talent. Kitty's knack for fashion also leaded to the fact that she could paint.

…..

"Oh it is more beautiful then anything I could imagine," Kitty said while twirling about the room.

"Kitty calm down, before you knock something down." Just as Jane finished her statement Kitty did knock something down, though it wasn't a something at all, but a somebody.

"Oh I am so sorry," Kitty said breathlessly, staring into the bluest eyes she'd ever seen.

"Good heavens Kitty, I knew this was a bad idea." Jane exclaimed as she began to help Kitty up and asses the girl for damage in a very motherly fashion. Mumbling about what Lizzy would say to Kitty.

"Are you going to introduce yourselves, or shall I just refer to you as the girl who knocked me down and company?" asked the blonde haired, blue eyed, red coat.

"Please excuse my manners," Kitty quickly injected, "I am Catherine Chavanne, and this is my sister Jane Chavanne. It a pleasure to meet you?"

"Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, at your service." He said with a debonair smile and dramatic bow. His cheesy grin aimed very much so at Kitty.

Jane was just about to interject when the Colonel using all his suave asked Kitty for her arm and she obligingly took it. Again Jane was about to speak when the two began discussing art, England and Florence. Adamantly discussing their common interests and completely oblivious to poor Jane who felt like she was going to be sick.

….

It was when a certain voice reached her ears that Jane thought she was dreaming, or having a nightmare. It was split second later that she heard, "Miss Bennett?" The color from Jane's and Kitty's faces drained, both looking ashen at the name Bennett.

The Colonel took no notice, for one could see he was quite taken with Catherine, quickly began to introduce his newfound interest to the rest of his party. "Bingley…meet Miss Chavanne and Miss Catherine her sister."

"Chavanne?...but …" Bingley looked quite puzzled and was about to respond as he stared at the two Bennetts. Jane looked around worriedly, and found Kitty staring at her with the most grief stricken of looks.

"Umm we must go…." Jane said quickly.

"Just another minute you must meet my cousins…" though before the Colonel could finish Mr. Darcy and his sister walked into the room.

"Miss Bennett?" Darcy said with a startled gasp, looking to Bingley's confused face and his cousin's smile that was quickly beginning to dissolve.

The Colonel looked around at the funny faces, "Who the devil are the Miss Bennetts?" and with that comment Jane fainted with a loud thud. Jane had no sooner hit the ground then Bingley was at her side, scooping her into his arms.

Kitty was glancing around frantically, trying to think of something anything. Desparately she began to hurry toward Jane when Darcy intercepted her.

Mr. Darcy, ever the one to take charge did so, "Miss Kitty, you must…" but before he could finish he was interrupted.

"That's not my name," said the franctic girl as she looked at her sister.

"Miss Bennett…" Darcy still confused calmly held Kitty by her shoulders and began again. "That isn't my name I said," she said defensively as tears began to well in her eyes.

Darcy was at a lost, "Miss Bennett, I am most sure that you are very stressed and that…"

"I am not Kitty Bennett, I am Miss Catherine Chavanne, sister to the Countess Dearesta de la Chavanne, and you will addresss me as such," Kitty with such conviction then Darcy was astounded by the resemblance to Elizabeth.

Darcy though was getting irritated, what was this nonsense. "What the devil is this?"

In a much calmer voice Bingley asked, "Where are you staying, Miss Bennett needs to rest?" never once lifting his eyes from Jane's pale face.

"She is Miss Chavanne as well…and," Kitty shook her head violently and mumbled, "Oh Lizzy will surely be mad now." Her tears beginning to spill over.

"Miss Elizabeth is here?' Darcy asked, and it didn't go unnoticed that he suddenly perked up at her name.

Again Kitty glared at him, "Mr. Darcy please do not presume you know any of our goings on, and my sister, Elizabeth, is the Countess Daresta de la Chavanne," though Kitty's stern demur quickly faded once she realized what she had said, "Oh now Lizzy will surely chop off my head."

"That's something they only so in France," said the Colonel with a smile trying to lighten the mood.

Kitty didn't know what to do, bring Jane back to the house with all these people or wait it out and place Jane in danger. Stomping her foot and huffing, much to the shock of the sophisticated Miss Darcy, Kitty grumbled, "On Lizzy will surely take away my pin money now," continuing now glancing at the assembled group, consisting of the Colonel, the Darcys, and the Bingleys, she said, "Follow me."

Kitty then took on an air which was astounding. A man rushed up to her at the stairs of the entrance.

"Alfred call for the horses, and see to it that our guests have their carriage follow us as well."

"Miss, I didn't know the Mistress was expecting guests."

Kitty tried to smile as she glanced at their party, "She isn't."

"Are sure this is wise Lady Catherine?"

"Thank you but all will be well, the Countess will just have to deal with it. Now retrieve the horses." The Colonel could only laugh at such commentary coming from such a thing, as this Miss Chavanne.

Mary sat with Elizabeth in the upstairs sun room, basking in the glorious mid-day sun. Neither foreseeing the events that were next to come, each calm, enjoying each other's presence for perhaps one of the first times of their sisterhood.

Elizabeth sat her desk, doing the numbers of something or other. Mary had already finished the work assigned by Lizzy, of some estate management. Now as she sat reading her novel, which Kitty had recently given her, Kitty believed it would spice up her book collection, a thought crossed her mind.

What would become of them if someone ever recognized them, would they still be who they were today, or would yesterdays long past catch up to them?

Glancing at her peaceful sister, Lizzy, Mary pondered this. Lizzy had been so uptight for so long in London, until it was suggested that they tour the continent. She had suspicious of everyone and that, which may have been connected to anyone, such as a cousin of the Lucas's who had come to visit, was turned away. Lizzy had made each of them live a life of shadow. Claiming that she and Kitty were not out yet, and that she, Lizzy, and her eldest sister, Jane were in a great mourning of their "Aunt".

Taking in a deep breath, and sighing Mary once again stared out the window, onto the Florence skyline.

Elizabeth had noticed the sigh and looked over to Mary. Much had changed Mary, the many deaths and scandals and with Elizabeth gone, and Jane trying to find work, Mary had been forced out of her shell. Mary had with what little money Kitty and she could scratch up, and Lizzy and Jane's salaries, kept her and Kitty afloat. Her once solemn nature had turned to a more scholarly path as well. She, realizing that no sermon could save her from the sewers and side streets of London, or the workhouses of the country, grew up.

"Mary," Elizabeth prompted gently like a mother to a child, "What is wrong?"

"Lizzy it is nothing, that time will not heal," offering a smile.

"Mary. Tell me, please," Elizabeth asked a little more sternly. Then smiling added, "Come now what our sisters for but to share gossips, secrets, and worries."

"Lizzy what will become of us, if anyone should find us? What scandal will follow us? Will mother's end be our own?"

Lizzy's face scrunched up in defiance, "No one will find us; we will tour for some time until it is time for you and Kitty to come out in London and Paris." Then adding, "I promise you this, Mary, nothing will break us, nothing and no one will harm us again."

…

Two coaches rolled up to the elaborate Italian townhouse. Out of the first came the Colonel, who flirtatiously offered his hand to the flirtatious Miss Catherine. Each acting as actors of a comedy might act. Next came a worried Mr. Bingley, who when offered the hand of Miss Chavanne, scooped her up and carried her, much to her embarrassment. This group proceeded to walk up to the townhouse and in.

Of the second carriage, only Miss Bingley and the Darcys got out. The Hursts had decided to go back to their own house, claiming exhaustion. Exhaustion brought on by a small bottle of whiskey in Mr. Hurst's jacket.

"My, my Mr. Darcy, this something else, the Bennetts here," then with the most high and mighty air, "or what are they now the Chavannes. It is all quite scandalous."

Mr. Darcy didn't even respond, but quickly escorted his sister to the entrance.

His stern demeanor quite setting his sister off, she asked, "Brother, if the Chavannes are the Bennetts, then is not this Countess the Miss Elizabeth Bennett you spoke of?"

Looking at her curious face, he responded wittily and hopefully, "Well we are about to see."

The furnishings were beautiful; everything was so classic and lovely, far from any gaudiness.

"Kitty I am glad you back…" though the voice from the stairs quickly went silent when it eyed the party before it.

Kitty spying her sister said, "Now Mary, don't be alarmed, I'd like you to meet…"

Though before that voice could finish another interrupted, "Mary sit out guests in the drawing room," there stood the former Miss Elizabeth Bennett dressed in a simple but classy yellow day dress. Then turning her sharp eyes to Kitty went on, "Catherine, come with me, would you?"

….

"What have you done you foolish girl, I should have sent you off to a school for girls in Austria, not have you do this," exclaimed an irate Elizabeth.

"For your sake and mine, would you please listen? What was I to do, how was I to know the Colonel was with the Darcys and Bingleys? Get off your high horse Lizzy, and think of something to do," exclaimed Kitty with just as much venom as Elizabeth.

Turning to Kitty her face softening, Elizabeth's face keen and calculating their best strategy, "Kitty, we will go out there as the model of decorum. No one will be able to fault us, and then we will leave here in two days time. No one will ruin us Kitty."

Kitty nodded, "Lizzy I am so sorry," the pain on her face evident.

"Kitty we will get through this and next time we will take more precautions."

Just as they were about to leave the room Kitty timidly asked, "Are you really sending me to Boarding School?"

Elizabeth glanced at Kitty almost wanting to ring her neck, but laughed at the funny way things had come about, "No Kitty, how could I ever send one of my sisters away now that I have finally got you all back."

Both sisters proceeded down to the drawing both preparing for whatever was to come. There are times in life when you walk into a room and it feels as if there are only two people in the room, you and another. This other can range from friend to enemy, lover to rival. It is awkward, and full of apprehension, and everyone else in the room seems to disappear.

As Elizabeth entered Darcy thought of how beautiful she looked, of how she had the finest eyes she had ever seen, and then he thought of her rejection. Elizabeth didn't see the man she once knew in Hertfordshire. He didn't seem as haughty or uncivil, yet she didn't know this man. The controversy which surrounded him in her mind was too thick.

"Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth said with a bow.

"Miss…?" Darcy asked glancing at Elizabeth after his bow.

His face was so, Elizabeth couldn't describe it, it looked lost, unknowing, and a little part of her wanted to admit, devilishly handsome. Smiling as much as she could, "Countess Chavanne, but as an old acquaintance please call me Miss Elizabeth," she finished tilting her head to the side slightly.

Mr. Darcy smiled, "Yes quite old acquaintances with are, Miss Chavanne," he added jestingly. He couldn't get over how beautiful she looked, in her yellow day dress.

They both stood there smiling at each other, both lost from the world, until it came crashing back upon them. "Well, well Countess," Miss Bingley added with a raised eyebrow and a bow, "However are you?"

Elizabeth serene look quickly turned to a steely calm, "Very well, Miss Bingley, and how are you?"

"Oh I am quite fine, thank-you," glancing around she added, "Though you have caused quite uproar, Countess, back in London."

"I was not aware of it," Elizabeth wanted it to be over for them to be gone. It was then she noticed Jane, pale Jane holding her forehead, "Jane what has happened?"

"Elizabeth," Jane answered, "I just had a bit of fainting spell. It is just the weather," she added with a smile that said ask no more.

"Miss Kitty, you must tell the Countess how you came across us," Caroline interjected, "Had I known the Bennetts were here we would have stopped in."

"Excuse Miss Bingley, but it seems you have misunderstood, I am Miss Catherine Chavanne, and if we had wanted you to stop in…"Kitty was cut off by Jane.

"Had we known you were here, we would have made a visit or invited you to dine with us. Forgive us," Jane diplomatically said.

Kitty was fuming in her sit, that wretch Miss Bingley; well she just wished she would fall of a cliff. At the thought, Kitty couldn't suppress the smile that came to your face. "Miss Catherine you must share what has amused you so," whispered the Colonel conspiratorially.

No one had noticed, and for that Kitty was thrilled. She quickly stood and said, "My how stiff I am from the carriage ride. Mary, would you be interested in taking a jaunt about the gardens with me?" Kitty said with a little too much perkiness and then, "Oh, and Colonel you must come as well, they are quite lovely, if you'd like."

Mary rolled her eyes and nodded in consent, and the Colonel gallantly stood up and offered an arm to each and said, "Why Miss Catherine I'd be delighted, to take a jaunt about the gardens." And so the three left the room, which was now quite quiet.

"Countess, you must know I am quite thrilled to see you all," Bingley said smiling quite wide, "We have seen no familiar faces in so long. It is quite nice, don't you agree as well, Darcy."

Darcy had been zoning out a little, just staring at Elizabeth, and when he saw everyone glancing his way, quickly added, "Oh, yes very nice," looking toward his sister. He saw she had her hands folded and was staring at her lap, he hadn't even realized that she hadn't been introduced. "Miss Chavanne, my sister Miss Georgiana Darcy."

"It is quite a pleasure to meet, Miss Darcy," Elizabeth offered kindly, trying not to scare the poor girl.

"Yes Countess..."

"Please call me Miss Elizabeth," Elizabeth smiled.

"Miss Elizabeth, it is a pleasure to meet. My brother had told me so many good things about you. You should play for us on the pianoforte."

Elizabeth refused politely, but Miss Bingley interjected haughtily, "Miss Georgiana, the Countess is not lying, she does not play far as well, as your brother so kindly probably exaggerated."

The stunned silence and Bingley's shock cannot describe the feelings enough of the occupants of the room.

"Miss Darcy," Elizabeth said with a smile, "Miss Bingley is right. You must understand that I'd need to be quite prevailed upon to play."

"But Miss Elizabeth you must. Your playing has been quite raved about by my brother, and my brother never exaggerates," Georgiana countered adamantly, sending a sideways glance of confusion at Miss Bingley.

"Please Miss Elizabeth; you must grace us with your playing. I am sure we will find it quite enjoyable," pleaded Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth reluctantly acquiesced.

"Miss Chavanne, how has your time in Florence been?" Bingley asked.

Cautiously Jane replied, "Quite well Mr. Bingley, and your own?"

And so polite conversation ensued, no one speaking their mind, each hidden behind their own mask. Jane lost in a torrent of emotion, fearing heartbreak. Caroline determined to find out the scandal behind these chits, the newly Chavannes. Bingley enraptured by Jane's very being, though plagued by Darcy's words. Georgiana oblivious to the tension. Darcy plagued by fine eyes and his own past failings. Elizabeth lost in worry, and fearing that her heart would betray more than anything else.

Kitty, Mary, and the Colonel though enjoyed a much lighter atmosphere. Kitty and Colonel flirting most obviously, each occasionally teasing Mary who huffed, or tease back. So the afternoon went by, with each party lost in their thoughts, until it graciously, and thank goodness came to an end. After the guests had left and the house had settled.

"Catherine, Jane," Elizabeth exclaimed quite exasperatedly, "What was that?"

Time had passed since the visit two days prior with no word from their London acquaintances.

"Elizabeth," Mary said after reading a letter from London. After gaining her sister's attention she continued, "Perhaps it would be best to send for Catherine."

"Is there something wrong?"

"It's just…with Wickham still out there in London, I think it'd be best to make arrangements for Catherine," Mary pleaded.

Catherine. One may wonder, isn't Kitty just down the hall, in the Florence home. Who could be Catherine, and what is her relationship to Wickham.

Elizabeth didn't want Catherine in Wickham's hand. She had spent quite a pretty penny trying to gain custody of the child and the last thing she needed was for Wickham to have a bargaining chip against her. "Mary, make the arrangements and see that she, is taken care of on their journey," Elizabeth sighed.

She couldn't understand it, did she love this child? Everyone loves small children, had she been too harsh as Kitty and Jane had said to her back in London? Could she hold the failings of the parents against her niece? While her sisters had swooned, she had left the room, staring out a parlor window debating the fate of the child, and still she debated this fate. She was responsible for a life, which could destroy her own.

…..

Just a stone's throw where Elizabeth sat and contemplated this fate, another life had changed from a letter as well.

"Can not believe it," Georgiana said exasperated, "She died?"

The Colonel stood in front of the fire lost in its mesmerizing dance.

"Richard, she has demanded your presences," Darcy looked up from reading the letter.

"Will there be a funeral, or…" Georgiana asked, shock lining her voice.

"No I do not believe there will be," Richard said solemnly, "Perhaps a small ceremony at Rosings, but none other."

Darcy couldn't believe it, Anne dead, and Lady Catherine's doctor claiming her own death in the eminent future.

"Georgiana go and tend to our guests and see to it that no one knows of this," Darcy instructed, "Please give our excuses as well." Georgiana nodded and quickly left to do as her brother instructed.

"You realize she has left you as the heir."

"It has not sunk in yet," Richard said solemnly.

"The lawyers will be in an uproar, and you will have to be on guard for deranged DeBourghs, along with fortune hunters," Darcy added the last teasingly.

"Oh no need to worry Darcy," Richard said with a brilliant smile, "I already know that the woman I love is no fortune hunter. I'll marry her one day, perhaps after she has come out and lived a bit, but I will marry her." Richard smilingly like only a man in love does, completely oblivious to Darcy's confused face. Darcy, a bit oblivious to Richard's affections to Catherine, thought it was his sister. Thinking to himself, he had never thought there was any romance between the two cousins.

"I guess I will be off, shortly," determination setting into Richard's brow.

"Have a safe journey," Darcy added with a brotherly hug.

"You be safe yourself, Darcy. I do believe you are in danger of falling in love, with a certain Countess," teased as he left the study.

Darcy whispered, "If only you knew," as the door closed and Richard departed ignorant of his cousin's words.

Florence was bustling with activity. The streets were crowded with all sorts of people, from beggars to nobility. Each offering their own, to the intricate tapestry of the city, and in the middle of all this was Elizabeth and Kitty.

"Lizzy, we must buy this…oh no this…oh please Lizzy this hat…" and on Kitty went lamenting on what she wanted. Lizzy smiled to herself, despite how much they had all changed, some things still remained the same. Kitty, despite developing a little more decorum, was still as exuberant as ever.

Elizabeth's thoughts soon turned from one Catherine to the next, Catherine Wickham would be arriving in two days. How could she care for a child right now, let alone that child. She certainly need not lie about the child, a sister dying in childbirth and the father going catatonic after his wife's death. It was certainly believable, and that the sister took over the child's care, when no other capable family members existed is fine as well. Elizabeth was soon sidetracked by Kitty, who had been exclaiming about how she was quite besotted with a certain young gentlemen. Elizabeth smiled slyly at Kitty for being smitten with the Colonel, but then another awful thought occurred to her, Kitty and the Colonel's romance could never be.

Elizabeth's plan had been to get away, and the Bennetts disappear, but should a connection be forged, with such a family as the Colonel's, the Bennetts would never cease to exist and she would be plagued by it for the rest of her days. Poor, poor Kitty, Elizabeth thought, if only it had been some other. What was she to do? Elizabeth believing the Colonel was still in Florence, made her decision, she'd have Kitty sent to her Ulster property, Laurel Grove, and there Kitty would be taught to a "lady." Away from society she would have her safe haven, and Kitty would be away from the Colonel, and this romance would die out as any slight of fancy usually does.

Glancing at Kitty all the beauty of romance and love, and that look upon Kitty's face would haunt her restless night. Kitty would hate her when she was sent away, and perhaps Kitty might forgive her one day and maybe not, but for now she would enjoy these fleeting moments with Kitty. Smiling at Kitty, "Whatever you want Kitty," then seeing her mischievous eyes, "though nothing outlandish," Elizabeth finished with a smile.

"Me, outlandish, Lizzy? Whatever do you mean?," Kitty responded laughingly.

….

"Brother, may we go visit the Chavannes?" Georgiana asked.

Drawn out of his thoughts, of how to tell Bingley what he had done, all those months ago. Darcy turning to his sister's excited face wondered whether they should.

"Umm…I suppose we could call by this afternoon," Georgiana's face lit up, "but they may not be available," Darcy added to warn his sister.

"Of course William," Georgiana nodded, "I do think that I should like to speak with Miss Catherine and Miss Mary," adding with some mischief, "perhaps you should like to speak with the Countess?"

"Yes, I...," Darcy quickly stopped himself and glared at Georgiana, who was laughing.

"Right, well Georgie, I must speak with Bingley now," Darcy said with a sigh.

…..

"Bingley may I have a word?" Darcy asked hesitantly.

"Darcy, of course you may," Bingley responded with a jovial expression, "Why are you acting so formal?"

Darcy cut right the chase, "I have done you an injustice, Bingley."

"Darcy, you must jesting," but seeing Darcy's face, Bingley's smile fell, "Darcy what is it?"

"When we left Netherfield I…"Darcy hesitated.

"Darcy that was ages ago, I have probably forgotten whatever it was," Bingley said reassuringly.

"No I do believe you have remembered this one," Darcy looking at Bingley took a deep breath and went on, "She loved you."

"What?" Bingley asked, hoping he was not hearing what he was.

"Miss Jane Bennett, she loved you."

Bingley face hardened, "How can you know this? What has given you this notion now so late?"

"I was unsure, afraid it was fancy on both parts and you sisters agreed…" Darcy went to continue but Bingley interrupted.

"So now is she enough, are her connections more appealing now for you and my sisters? Perhaps more of catch, with the dowry Elizabeth will probably give her? What, Darcy?" again before Darcy could respond, "How easily I was swayed before, will not happen again."

"Bingley, please accept my deepest apologies, I was most wrong," Darcy said with a sad tone.

"One last question, Darcy?" Bingley asked and when Darcy nodded he continued, "How did you find out she loved, or are you just saying it now?"

"Miss Elizabeth told me, when we were at Rosings."

"Why should Miss Elizabeth confess such things to you, Darcy?" Bingley asked tilting his head to the side.

"I…I proposed to her, and she refused me on the grounds of her sister's unhappiness, among others," Darcy let out silently.

…..

"Elizabeth!" Kitty shouted agony lining her voice, "How could you?"

"Kitty, it will be best…," before Elizabeth could continue.

"For you, no doubt," Kitty interrupted, "Why aren't you sending Mary as well?" When no answer came Kitty shouted, "Answer me Elizabeth!"

"It is for the best," Jane added trying to be diplomatic, "I am sure that Lizzy has thought this out. Kitty, this way when you come out you can have every advantage we did not." Jane tried to smile, but it quickly fell at the sullen look of Kitty's face.

"Catherine, you will be taught everything, from how to be graceful to knowledge that women don't usually pick up. You may pick a language to study, and the arts. Everything will be at your disposable," Elizabeth couldn't believe what she was doing sending Kitty away, but for all intensive purposes it would be for the best.

"Jane, Kitty, the lawyer, Mr. Witton is coming shortly to discuss some affairs of state. I'd like you, Kitty to go begin preparation for your trip," and with that Kitty left and Elizabeth continued, "Mr. Witton has some word, that it would be best if I chose an heir to my estate. While I have already supplied you and Mary with an ample dowry, I still must name an heir. Our Countess was not as alone in the world as we may have once believed. There were several nephews, by the name of Carte. Several of which have made it known, should I die without an heir, and they will inherit the estates. It is with this that I have decided to name Kitty, my heir until either I marry or another child is born, from one of you," Elizabeth finished.

"Kitty your heir, well that is quite a shock."

"Yes and that is not all. Catherine Wickham I am adopting into my custody and I'd like you to be joint guardian with me. She will have no dowry set aside for her, in case someone tries to abduct her for the money. Are we agreed, Jane?"

"Yes, Lizzy," Jane looked closely at Elizabeth, something was wrong, "Is there something wrong."

Elizabeth, who had been briefly zoning out, shook her head replying, "No, it's just sending Kitty away. I wonder will it be as well as I hope?"

…..

Mary was browsing through the bookstore when a particular binding caught her eye. Upon examination she saw that the title had been worn away, peeking her curiosity. Reaching up she grabbed the novel, and began to pull it off the shelf, when suddenly the book pulled back. Shocked, Mary pulled again, and again it happened. Curious to see what was happening she pulled again, but this time when the book pulled back she let go. The novel then zoomed out the other side, revealing a man. The man smiled boyishly, he had piercing green eyes with sandy blonde colored hair.

Reaching through with his hand he replied, "Sorry Miss…I did not realize anyone was on the other side," he finished with a grin.

"You didn't realize there was someone on the other side? What do you think was pulling on the book, a ghost?"

"Maybe it was a ghost; I did not see your hand upon the book. Did you see the ghost escape?" He asked laughingly, his green eyes sparkling.

"You have got to kidding," Mary asked exasperated.

"Well anyhow, I am John Carte, and you are?"

"Miss Ben….Miss Chavanne," Mary replied with a curtsey.

"Well Miss Chavanne, since I a gentlemen, you may have the book as long as you promise to let me borrow it once you are done?" John said with his hand outstretched.

"Yes, I will lend it to you once I am done."

"Oh how generous you be, Miss Lady," John thanked mockingly.

"You should be gracious, and more polite," Mary said in a motherly voice.

"Ahh, but mother, I be second son with no money to my name, so what need I with politeness and grace," John went on jestingly.

"Well I be a third sister, and I insist I then be called Miss Mary," replied Mary with a smile.

"Well Miss Mary, I believe this is the start of quite a funny friendship."

"I do believe so Mr. Carte."

"Now Miss Mary, what do you think of the American, Emerson?" (AN I realize I may be off with the time, but I wanted to throw it in…please forgive me)

"Oh, I do enjoy his writings, have you read his…"And on the conversation went until they separated, off their different ways to home, several hours later.

"Are the Chavannes, available?"

"And who will I say is calling upon them?" asked the butler.

"Miss Georgiana Darcy and Mr. Darcy, along Mr. Bingley," replied Georgiana.

Ten minutes later, Elizabeth and Jane entered the parlor where their guests had been seated. "Good Afternoon," both Elizabeth and Jane greeted with a curtsey.

"To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?" Elizabeth asked.

"It is my sisters doing," Darcy answered.

"Oh, yes Miss Elizabeth I have been quite anxious to see you again. We did not have the proper opportunity to talk with one another," Georgiana smiled and continued, "My brother has spoken so highly of you."

"Oh, has he, I am sure then that he has exaggerated," Elizabeth replied in modesty, "How have you been Mr. Darcy?"

"I have been well, Miss Elizabeth. Thank-you."

"Miss Chavanne, how have you been," Bingley asked Jane.

"I have been well, Mr. Bingley, and yourself," Jane asked trying to seem calm.

"Foolish," Bingley replied his face full of anguish.

"Excuse me?"

"I have been foolish, Miss Chavanne."

"I think you have said quite enough," Jane replied in an even voice.

Their private conversation was interrupted though by Mr. Darcy.

"Mr. Bingley, you should inform the Chavannes of your latest decision."

"Oh, yes I will be renting back Netherfield," Bingley said nodding his head.

"Well, I hope you enjoy the luxuries of the Hertforshire, Mr. Bingley. We do miss it, sometimes," responded Elizabeth her say smile saying so much more than her words.

"Yes, perhaps we shall see each other when we are staying there," Mr. Darcy said in his usually monotone voice.

"Oh, yes that would be delightful, and Miss Elizabeth you can show me the paths you often walked, my brother has told me you are quite fond of walking."

"Yes I am, but I am afraid we will not be there in Hertforshire," Elizabeth replied her eyes downcast.

"Miss Elizabeth, when shall you be return to Hertfordshire, that way we may make plans?" Georgiana asked.

"We shan't be returning to Hertfordshire ever," Jane said in a soft but stern tone.

Elizabeth faked a smile, "You see our parents have passed on, and Mr. Collins inherited the estate."

Mr. Darcy was astounded, they, Elizabeth's parents, both dead. He had never considered it.

"I believe I will go tell cook, to bring out some tea and sandwiches," Elizabeth said her eyes fluttering as if to ward off tears.

As soon as she left the room, Darcy excused himself. There just down the corridor was Elizabeth standing there, one hand to her face and the other on her hip.

"Miss Elizabeth are you unwell?" Darcy asked ever so softly.

Startled, Elizabeth tuned, "No, I just have a bit of a headache."

"I am sorry for your loss. I understand what it is to lose a beloved parent," Darcy said and no sooner had he said it then Elizabeth burst into tears. Involuntarily reaching forward, Darcy pulled Elizabeth into his arms, as she shook from sobs.

"Shh, please do not cry," Darcy said in soothing tones, devastated by how broken his Elizabeth seemed to be.

"He left me, to deal with them, and Lydia….how I hate her..." and on Elizabeth sobbed brokenly with anger in her voice. Lydia what had happened to Lydia? Darcy made a mental note to himself to find out.

"All will fine Miss Elizabeth, just wait."

Wiping away her tears in a most unladylike fashion Elizabeth said, "I will go to see to the sandwiches and tea," and just as she began to walk away she turned and said, "Thank-you."

"For what Miss Elizabeth?"

"For simply being there, Mr. Darcy," Elizabeth answered with the faint trace of smile and a dash of happiness in her eyes.

It had been one week since the Chavannes had seen the Darcy/Bingley party, now one must be aware that much can happen in one week. First, invitations for a Masquerade at Madam Milane's residence are sent out. Secondly a speedy informant can get information from London to Florence. Third, a young lady can set out on a journey, along with the arrival of a babe.

….

"Mr. Darcy, this is the information you requested. To my of abilities and my informants, this is what could be found," finished a somewhat older man.

"Thank-you, that will be all," Darcy replied anxious to read the contents of the package.

Upon opening the package several slips of paper fell out. The first was a death certificate for Lydia Bennet (AN I am fixing it from here on.), and also a birth certificate for Catherine Wickham. Upon each the first of July, was marked as Lydia's death and Catherine's birth. Darcy was most definitely startled at the last name Wickham, what could George have to do with any of this. Darcy further investigated to find that no place or cause of death was listed on Lydia's death certificate. Nothing, it was as if it had been swept clean.

Next, he took a letter, scrawled in a flattering hand, about Colonel Foster. After reading the contents of the letter, learning that Lydia had eloped with Wickham was most startling. After that another, page informing him of Elizabeth's work for the former Countess Chavanne.

Most startling the page describing Mr. Bennet's death, though he died painlessly in his sleep it can still be said that any death is most tragic. How this must have tortured Elizabeth to have not been near her father, a most beloved parent, when he passed away.

Mr. Collins, due to the entail, quickly took over possession of the house; at this point the only knowledge of Mrs. Bennet was that she disappeared after a proposal, by Mr. Collins, to have her be their chief house maid. The other Bennet girls, other than Elizabeth, are said to have suddenly disappeared after a few months. Next was a copy of the Countess Chavanne's will naming Elizabeth her sole heir, and after should Elizabeth have no heir, it would revert back to Jacob Carte, a nephew.

After flipping through several more sheets a paper on Catherine Wickham came up again. This child was Lydia's and Wickham's, upon birth killing her mother. After this, Wickham is said to have kept the child briefly until leaving the child in the care of Mrs. Younge. Soon after Elizabeth's ascent to Countess, it seems she confiscated the child, even paying Mrs. Younge off. Recently, adopting the child, anonymously, as her ward, no specification of relation.

Elizabeth had gone to quite some care from that point on to clear the Bennet name, and change, hers and her sister's name. Furthermore, their whole past seemed to have been polished and from about a year or so ago, erased. Darcy was impressed at the handiwork that Elizabeth must have used, along with the quality of her lawyer.

It was about the time he was cleaning up the papers that Georgiana came into the study, "William, shall we go to the masque?"

"I do not know, perhaps we shall not…." Before Darcy could continue Georgiana interrupted.

"I am sure Elizabeth will be there along with her sisters, and Bingley plans on going," Georgiana tried to persuade her brother. Darcy was taken aback by his sister, and the thought of Elizabeth at the masque.

"Yes we shall go," Darcy conceded.

Georgiana jumped in success in a very unladylike manner.

….

"Lizzy, I am sure the masque will be fine, no one will know us," Jane said sensibly as the carriage bounced on the stony street of Florence.

"Yes I am sure, but we shan't stay long," Elizabeth added quickly.

"Oh, Lizzy must you be so paranoid, we are in Florence, no one knows of us."

"Except of course Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, Jane," Mary added provocatively, earning a slight glare from Jane, but again Jane's glare cannot be quite classified as a glare.

"No more of this," Elizabeth interceded, "We shall enjoy ourselves before we set off for Austria."

…

The Masque was beautiful, the lights and colors surrounded everything and everyone. It was if you were in a sea, full of the most exotic looking…everything. It was all fantasy to behold, something so wonderful you might only see it once.

At the entrance, there was a small man, who stood holding a bowl, "Shouting pick your number, meet your partner."

As was the rules, everyone single man or woman who entered, had to pick a number and find their partner for the night. Mary picked 33, Jane picked 79, and Lizzy picked 112. Each split up to find their partner in the rather large and extensive masque.

"Excuse me; does anyone know who has number 33?"Mary asked exasperated, this was perhaps the twentieth person she had asked.

"And who may I ask is asking?" asked the lavished dress man before with a horse mask.

"I am Miss Cha…wait one moment, that would defeat the purpose of the mask," Mary rebuked angrily.

"Well, well Miss Mary, it is I, John Carte," whispered the man, John, "and I am number 33." Mary smiled brightly, underneath her eye mask, and together they proceeded to talk and dance.

Jane was also looking for own, partner. That is when she came upon a man dressed like an Eastern Sultan.

"Excuse me, sir, are you number 79?"

"Why yes, princess," smiled the man. He was quite tall; along with handsome from what she could see, the most attractive feature was his blue eyes, underneath his dark black hair. "So, princess, what shall we do dance, or watch the others and judge the other guests?"

"I do believe sir we should dance now, sir," Jane answered wearily. There was something in the way he talked and looked at her that set her off. Something about his character, his lack of charm, with such devilish looks.

Elizabeth was getting quite set off, by this, she had yet to find her partner and she had been looking for quite some time. Suddenly there was a tap upon her shoulder, and she turned to see a man, dressed as a …well he looked rather normal, with only a black mask.

"Excuse me, Miss but would you happen to be number 112?" asked the man, with a quite handsome voice.

"Yes, I am, kind sir," replied Elizabeth who was dressed as country lass.

Darcy had to admit, his partner was quite beautiful, in fact she reminded him a bit of Elizabeth from Hertfordshire, though something was different, she didn't have the same air about her. He thanked goodness he found his partner seeing as Georgiana and the Bingleys had left him as quickly as they arrived.

….

As Elizabeth danced with the masked man she had an odd sense of déjà vu, though not quite, it was as if all this had happened in another time and place. Glancing at her silent partner, she decided to try have a conversation, "It's quite lovely this evening. I am sure Madame Milane has outdone herself."

"Yes, I am sure," responded her very distracted, glancing around the room looking for somebody, partner.

"Well, sir," Elizabeth remarked with the slightest bit of irritation, "Perhaps now you could be polite enough, to remark on the size of the room, the number of guests, the weather, anything perhaps?" Elizabeth prodded.

Darcy almost stopped mid-step when his partner, said "to remark on the size of the room, the number of guests" it had to be Elizabeth. As he looked down at the woman, who was dressed as a country lass, he realized she was wearing a very similar outfit to the one she wore to Bingley's Ball. He wanted to laugh to himself, how ironic was it that they ended up together, what were the odds? He decided to continue on though as if he didn't know who she was.

"Perhaps, I would," Darcy almost laughed, but continued, "I do not get on well with people I do not know, so please excuse my ill manners." There was something strange about this man that was jumping out at her, on the tip of her tongue, if only she could realize it.

Elizabeth went on ignoring the urge to ask who he was she asked, "How long have you been in Florence, sir?"

"Several weeks now and yourself?"

"The same as well," Elizabeth answered, still puzzled as to who the man was.

"So what have you dressed up as?" Darcy asked whom he knew to be Elizabeth.

"Simplicity, for I am not good at being dressy or gaudy as such a party as this may require," she answered we a smile from under her white eye mask, "And what sir are you supposed to be?"

"The same, though I must say, that in your simplicity, you look like an angel," Darcy replied with a smile, a genuine smile, from under his black mask.

Elizabeth was awe struck, "You are too kind sir."

"I never exaggerate, I am completely honest about my good opinion, and you have it," Darcy went on.

Elizabeth's eyebrows furrowed, "Sir how may I have your good opinion when you barely know me, let alone who I am?"

"Perhaps I know who you are," Darcy continued teasing Elizabeth.

"Then that is an unfair disadvantage for me, you may know of a weakness I have, and I know nothing of you," Elizabeth teased back.

"I know though that you have no weaknesses," Darcy said with admiration in his voice.

Elizabeth was quite taken back; obviously this man knew her bit more than she had originally thought. It was at this point when the dance began to end, and her partner started to escort her off to the side.

…

Jane was appalled by the drunken stench of her partner's breath, other than being drunk he was also very obnoxious. He went on and on, complaining of all the people in the room, and frankly she was quite put out by. "Are you paying attention to me?" asked her partner with a drunken anger heavy in his voice.

"Yes, I was briefly distracted," Jane answered quickly begging for the night to be over or this man to pass out.

"Dumb women," taking another sip of wine, "always taking what's mine, you should learn to respect men," he continued on his drunken rant making no sense whatsoever.

It was then that Jane had had it, and began to pull away, when he grabbed her roughly on the arm and asked, "Where do you think you are going, wench?"

Now, just across the room another had noticed Jane, and began to walk their way.

"Unhand me, sir," Jane said in a calm, but scared voice.

Before either Jane or her partner could react, Bingley had punched the man squarely in the jaw, making the man stumble backward practically falling on the people behind him.

"How dare you speak to Miss Chavanne in such a way," said in such venom at her former partner.

Jane looked at Bingley with the utmost admiration and gratitude, "Thank-you Mr. Bingley."

And as Bingley started to reply, "It was not at all…."

The huge drunk who had been Jane's partner got his wits about him as he socked Bingley right back in the side of the face. The blow knocked Bingley to ground with a thud, also leading to several rather large men escorting the brute out.

….

Elsewhere, Elizabeth and Darcy had walked through the winding garden, losing themselves quite fully. "I do believe sir we are quite lost," Elizabeth said gazing around at the garden.

"I have to agree," Darcy looked around puzzled, "I could have sworn we have walked through here at least twice already."

"Thrice," Elizabeth responded with a laugh, "We have through here three times."

Darcy looked into her mesmerizing fine eyes, it was as if they mocked him, something he could never have, but always desire. Gently he brushed his hand across her face feeling her soft skin and only imagining what it must feel like to touch her unrestrained. And with these that he began to lose control. Inching forward he let his hand glide down to her waist, relishing in the feel of her curves, and the intoxicating scent of her perfume. Ever so gently and ever so slow their lips met in a sensual kiss that left them wanting so much more, as they seemed to war for control each pressing against the other, tongues battling in caresses.

And then a simple kiss turned into much more. As each began to tug on the other's clothing desiring to be near the other, to touch the other, to feel the skin and heat of the other. Maybe it was the many glasses of wine, or the built of passions, or the many long lonely nights dreaming of another that led to this series of events, but much else cannot be said for that night at Madame Milane's under the stars and exotic tapestries save for the consequences.

And when Elizabeth regained her sense and quickly parted it because she knew that it was all she could do. She must leave, because Darcy would continue to come for her, she had given herself to him, and he would not stop. Darcy would cross the sky and back to keep her. But as her eyes went blurry and the world began to sway, her last thoughts were of her love.

When Darcy returned he immediately went to help Jane with the recuperating Bignley. Smiling in the way that friends often do at each other antics, "My word, Bingley, I never foresaw you doing something like this." The only response Bingley could give was to smile dumbly at Jane, who continued to blush furiously since the incident had occurred.

It was then that there was a ruckus at the far side of the room they were in; first screams, then a deathly silence for took the room. Finally after all this a woman ran out screaming, "He's going to kill her!"

Jane immediately looked around the rather large ballroom, spotting Mary, but no Elizabeth. Darcy did the same as well, and when he didn't see Elizabeth he began busting his way through the crowds which had begun to gather to find Elizabeth, shouting her name as he went.

…..

"Let's be off, we wouldn't want our little Countess waking up before it was time," said the man hidden with the shadows of his carriage, which was jolting off.

"My, my how funny, you seem to have a funny way of avoiding me, sprite," stroking her back from her ear he whispered, "and now we are off to be married, sprite." Clenching a fistful of her hair painfully.

….

Darcy was going catatonic, the only thoughts running through his mind, "Where was Elizabeth?" The one woman, who he completely and utterly loved, was gone. After such a perfect night, everything had been ruined. Quickly he ran to Jane, who looked completely irate.

"Mr. Darcy, did you find Elizabeth," Jane's tears and anger become more prominent, "Tell me you found Lizzy." By the look on Darcy's face, Jane knew the answer, dropping to her knees sobbing uncontrollably. Elizabeth was gone, and too many suspects to have taken her.

"Jane," whispered Mary in soothing voice, "You must calm down. We will go home, and think of a solution."

"Kitty," Jane added with a wave of her hand, "She must be called back," at the puzzled faces, she went on, "She is Elizabeth's heir."

As Bingley tried to console Jane with the help of Mary, the wheels in Darcy's head began to turn. Why would anyone kidnap Elizabeth? Of course she was a Countess, but everything had been so perfect in the papers he had requested about the Bennetts, nothing jumped out as odd, at least at this moment.

John Carte stood, beside the group, watching poor Miss Jane cry. What had he brother done? Had he not already enough money? It was then that an odd looking man came into the room. His hair had several funny patches of gray, along with a slight limp, a protruding chin with a cleft curving to the left. The man's lanky figure suggested he was not rich, but his dress suggested a rich employer. The man hobbled his way to John, quickly bowing and passing him a piece of paper, saying, "From your brother, Master."

John quickly scanned the note and crumbled it in an angry rage. Turning to the old man, "Hans, go ready the horses we leave immediately," then turning to poor Miss Mary he said solemnly, "Miss Mary, I have to leave," he said in a soft voice. "I hope that you find the Countess soon. I am sure she will be fine."

Mary just nodded, dumbstruck, too overwhelmed by the situation in general, and the thought that they would have to run again, buy new faces, and lose everything they had recently gained.

"Bingley," Darcy said in a low voice, "find your sisters, and tell them nothing of what has happened and meet me back at the Chavanne Townhouse."

Bingley quickly jumped up, placing a comforting kiss upon the top of Jane's head. Darcy then kneeled down to Jane's level at which she sat, unresponsively. Taking her hand in his he said, "Jane, you must listen and listen closely," eyeing Mary as well he continued, "Elizabeth trusted you the most of anyone in the world, and if there were secrets she would have entrusted them to you, whether you know it or not. We must go back to the house, if Elizabeth can she will most likely be there," unfortunately for Darcy such hope that Elizabeth would meet them there were nonexistent.

After Mary stood to call for their carriage Darcy picked up the distraught Jane whispering, "I love your sister very much, and I will see to it, she is found no matter any cost." Glancing down at Jane he continued, "We shall all be happy one day."

In a whisper Jane responded, "I sincerely hope so," her few hopes drowning in her sorrow.

…..

Groggily Elizabeth awoke a dull pounding sensation in the back of her head. The grandiose room had little light save a few candles. As she sat up on the plush sofa, she felt her apprehension building. As the multitude of thought swarmed her mind she heard footsteps, and as the door swung open she saw Jacob Carte.

"Well, sprite I do believe. I haven't seen you since dear old Auntie was still alive. You were quite the attendant companion seeing as she left you everything," he added with a terrifying smile. He walked around her, circling her, as a predator would its prey. Leaning down behind her, her whispered, "You have become quite a prize Miss Bennet for any man," giving her a scandalous look which made her shutter. He continued on, "Not only have you money, but attractive and a good form. No doubt you will do well with children," he went on with a sinister look.

"I will be leaving now Jacob Carte and this will be the last time we meet," Elizabeth said with such furry and determination.

"Whether this is the last time we meet or not I don't care, but you are not leaving," he said with a dangerous look in his eyes, then adding with a frightening smile, "I should hope this won't be the last, but should children procure from our wedding night then I suppose I will find someone else to warm my bed."

"I will be warming no one's bed," Elizabeth said in such anger, "and furthermore I will not be marrying you tonight," with that Elizabeth stood up and began to march towards the door in defiance.

"Now, now sprite," Jacob said grabbing her arm, "you will be waiting right here with me."

"I'll kill you, one day," Elizabeth said with venom.

"Sprite, then I will have to make sure you are kept in line then."

Jacob Carte then pushed with his mighty fist Elizabeth away from the door, walking out it himself and locking it. Elizabeth stood pulling helplessly on the lock. In the room, which was practically dark, she slid down the door, pulling her knees up. She would find a way out, no one had broken Elizabeth Bennet this far, and no one was going to.

A dirty, cheap stage coach crossed into the city of Florence carrying a young, handsome man, but with one glance at his eyes, if you looked ever so carefully you could see something was hidden.

Staring off into the crowds, the man searched for a certain face, one he was quite familiar with, a woman whom he wanted to destroy with every ounce of being. He had once thought he might have married her, had she more fortune, this she was of great wit and charm, but that had all changed.

She had taken from him, a most prized child. Now one when thinking a prized child might consider the child "prized" due to the love and affection felt for the child by this man, but it was quite the opposite. You see this child was prized for her worth, to a woman who is quite rich and where family means everything, the child of her dead sister could be worth quite a pretty ransom.

He needed money, even as he thought this, he knew that his debt collectors were after him, tracking him down across Europe. Arriving at the shabby establishment which he would be staying, he grabbed his bag and exited the stage coach.

He would find her, whatever it took; Catherine would be his ticket to wealth.

Elizabeth had not slept a wink, occasionally dosing but always waking in fear of where she was. Then in the morning an elderly house keeper or maid came to give her a breakfast tray. She had been reduced to begging the elderly woman for information on where she was, but it was to no avail. She sat picking at the food; it was nothing to rave about a simple breakfast of mush.

Then the door opened and in walked Jacob Carte smiling as ever, that god awful smile which sent chills down her spine.

"Sprite, I see you aren't eating much, we can't have you taking ill now can we?" he asked with that hateful smile.

She didn't even acknowledge he's comment and asked, "Someone will find me," she said with determination and conviction to even convince herself.

"Well, you should hope," he replied in a laugh, "but I doubt that they will rescue you. Elizabeth I do not understand you, why not marry me, you could have all you ever wanted, take care of your family…everything would be find, all you would have to do is produce an heir for me. You would then have free range; wherever you wanted I would not care. So why then?"

"Because you are a liar and the most hateful man on earth, and would be the absolute last man I could ever be prevailed upon to marry!"

"Big words for someone with so little going for them now," Jacob said his demeanor changing drastically to one of pure rage, "You will bend to me mark my words, out wedding is this afternoon."

…

"Jane, you must know something," Darcy said kneeling in front of Jane with a pleading face.

Jane thought of everything she could yet nothing stuck out as being out of the ordinary. Her books weren't touched often after they had been read. They had searched her desk and found nothing. Her study had been clear of any secret or documentation of the secrets.

It was Mary who gave forth their first clue, "The painting," when everyone turned to her she continued, "The painting in the yellow sitting room. She once told me that when the light hits it just right it looks like…oh I cannot think of the estate's name, but it was from the tour with our Uncle and Aunt Gardiner."

Immediately the group began to follow Mary, who was practically running down the corridor towards the painting. Through several doorways and up three steps they ran into the yellow sitting room, and there above the mantle sat a painting which Darcy immediately recognized. It was almost identical to his Pemberly, save several small things.

"Its there," he said breathlessly. Darcy quickly strode over toward the painting, and then gently lifting the fine piece of the wall we ease.

Jane gasped as she saw the letter which fell out from behind the painting, falling like a feather to the ground and landing with a poof of dust. She then quickly scooped the letter up and tore open the seal to reveal a letter.

Dear Jane,

I supposed it would be Jane there upon the opening of this letter, but if not, hello. I truly wished this letter would never be open, but supposing the place where it was hidden I can only assume Fitzwilliam Darcy is there as well. Forgive me Jane for not having told you of this letter, I thought it would be best if these secrets remained just that, secrets.

One of several scenarios has occurred if you are reading this letter.

One Wickham has come for Catherine, his daughter. If this is true you must protect her, I once told you I had left nothing in her name seeing as a bargaining chip. I lied, I foresaw that perhaps I would not be there to supply a dowry and she would be forgotten and poor, much like we once were not too long ago. In Venice there is bank, there which has an account in her name. It contains her dowry, and the key to the lock box is hidden. If you are truly my Jane or Darcy then you will find it with ease, otherwise you are an imposter, who will procure nothing.

Secondly I have died; everything is left to Catherine, our sister. There is one condition I place upon her, that she marry someone with the approval of you, Jane and Mr. Darcy. He is quite wise and will know if they are simple fortune hunters who will break our Kitty's heart.

Third, if I am indisposed, or am missing, I left it in my will that Jane must be witness to any matrimonial vows I take or else my fortune will be inaccessible to my husband. Also that my lawyer, Mr. Witton must also be present.

Well, otherwise, Jane hold the rest of our sisters together. I will love you all always.

To Mary,

You have become quite a knowledgeable young woman, unhindered by society. Live the best and be happy.

To Kitty,

My how lovely you have become, quite the witty, kind, well rounded lady. Be happy and marry whom you love and will love you in return.

To Whom It May Concern:

I did love you, I love you now. One day we will be together, in life or in death.

Sincerely with love,

Elizabeth Bennet Chavanne

….

"Do you think Lizzy will be awfully mad at me?" Kitty asked while twisting her gloves in anxiety.

"Well I do hope not," then with a debonair smile, "who could be mad at her sister for marrying such a catch as me?" Richard Fitzwilliam then wiggled his eyebrows, procuring a laugh from Kitty.

"Oh, I do believe she will be quite awestruck, we make such a delightful pair," she said in a mocking voice.

"You dare mock me, lady," Richard asked as if hurt, only to receive a laugh again from Kitty.

Then something struck her, "Our children will be quite well off," turning to look at Richard she continued, "I never dreamed my children would be well off with money."

"Well they will be and we shall spoil them to our hearts content," then looking at the funny face Kitty held, he laughed, "Once a country lass, always a country lass."

Kitty 'hmmphed' in a very unladylike manner, only to have Richard turn her head and kissed her. The kiss deepened, and so continued the carriage ride toward Florence for the newly married, Richard Fitzwilliam and Catherine Fitzwilliam nee Bennet nee Chavanne

While Kitty and the Colonel traveled ignorantly toward Florence, with no knowledge of what was happening in Florence. Darcy was well at work trying to find out where Elizabeth was. Elizabeth silently prayed to anyone or anything, god or whatever, that could hear her prayer.

Bingley soothingly rubbed Jane's back as she cried for Lizzy. Georgiana had been kept in the dark, only knowing her brother's pain from the worn look on his face. The Bingley sisters had been kept in the dark though they had many an extravagant theory about this or that that had happened at the masque, most though was just gibberish.

Wickham had accomplished something in the mists of much chaos, though he had found Elizabeth when no one else could. Wickham with a prideful stride strode forward toward the door of one very big, very expensive, mansion near the heart of Florence. Upon a swift knock the door was opened by a stiff butler, whom then invited one, Mr. Wickham into the foyer. It was then a booming voice was heard from the stare well, "Well, well what do we have here?" Eyeing Wickham with his devilish eyes, "Someone come to visit my guest?"

"No a visit with her would be most unbeneficial for all of us," Wickham replied with a wicked smile, "She simple has something I want, and I am here to humble ask you for it," he said with sickeningly sweet tone.

….

Richard and Kitty were escorted into the front sitting room of the Darcy Townhouse in Florence. Kitty stood nervously fidgeting with her gloves, a newly acquired bad habit, which Richard often laughed at.

"Do you think he will approve," Kitty asked while staring at the door, "I mean Mr. Darcy was not exactly a good acquaintance whenever I have known him."

"Listen," Richard said grabbing her shoulders so that she looked at him, giving a stern look to silence Kitty's next comment he went on, "I could not bloody care what Darcy says. He is my cousin, who has been like a brother to me and I am here to share my happiness with him, not for him to take it away. Should he disapprove, well he can go to bloody hell, so no more." Kitty nodded and leaned forward, to be enveloped in his strong embrace.

It was then that Georgiana burst through the sitting room door. Kitty and Richard stepped away from each, while Georgiana looked dumbstruck.

"Cousin Richard, I was not told that Miss Chavanne was here as well."

Richard smiled, "Miss Chavanne is now Mrs. Fitzwilliam. I have married her Georgie." Richard went with such joy.

Georgiana looked dumbstruck still and then suddenly her face lit up, "So that makes us cousins, Catherine." Immediately Georgiana wrapped Kitty in a sisterly embrace, "Oh, Catherine, may I call you Catherine…we shall have the best times, and now I will not ever have to ask to visit the Chavannes…" and on Georgiana went.

"Miss Darcy..."Kitty began slightly astonished by this show of affection.

"Georgie!" Georgiana said to correct Kitty.

"Please call me Kitty and I yes we shall have plenty of wonderful times, but is your brother here?"

"Yes, where is Darcy?"

At this Georgiana face took a solemn look, "It was dreadful, that night at the masque, something awful happened…I cannot say in full detail, but oh my poor brother has been so distraught, he has not been home often and when he is he sits and looks through constant documents," then glancing at Kitty, "I have heard it rumored by the house staff that your sister, the Countess has gone missing."

Kitty's usually steady head became to spin, everything around her was spinning, her thoughts, the room everything, her life. Elizabeth gone meant everything to their lives, that of her and her sisters, along with the child.

….

When Lizzy had sent Kitty back to London, after which to be sent to Ulster, she'd run into the Colonel. He had pursued Kitty to no end, falling completely in love with her and she with him, and he often doted on her niece Catherine who was soon set off to join her Aunts in Florence. It was within a week that Richard had asked her to marry and she accepted and he went to procure a special license. Their London townhouse was hidden in North London in a small section by the Thames. One which Kitty often walked watching the Thames roll back and forth over the shore, sometimes crashing on the rocks, much like her own life. Suddenly something caught her, there was a man walking in the distance toward the house, probably some boy in housekeeping, or a gardener, and it being a small community where she resided she doubted it was a visitor.

There was something familiar about his walk, something startling, that put an edge to her step, that made her watch the man who walking toward the house, her house.

Brushing off these strange feelings, as paranoia due to secrets, which she was determined to keep secret. Lizzy may have sent her away, but she did it with the intention, to protect their past, and perhaps she would always hold this against Lizzy, but she would always pity Lizzy for having to do it, to protect them.

Later when she returned to the house, Mrs. Watfield came and informed that the nursery had been raided. A man she had also believe was part of the staff had gone up stairs claiming he was hired for handy work, destroyed the nursery.

Kitty was told he was probably a local, who had lost his wife or something and had fallen off the deep end, but Kitty always held the fear that it was something else. She thanked God that Catherine was gone, on her way to Florence.

…..

Kitty held her head in her hands as she wobbled to and fro, trying to catch her balance, and through clenched teeth she said, "It is Wickham, he is here for Catherine." Georgiana both looked puzzled, who was Catherine?

"Are the witnesses and all other guests assembled?" asked the old priest.

Elizabeth was dazed and confused, hearing the question, trying to get her bearings she looked around, seeing the many stain glass windows. Shutting her eyes closed very tightly trying to block out the voices of the priest, Wickham, and Jacob, she reopened her eyes, to see if this wasn't a dream.

Jacob pulled her up and hastened the priest on the "I do's."

It was when it got to Elizabeth response that she thought she might be able to voice her "I don't" when the priest completely skipped her, leaving her speechless. She tried to yell but was immediately silenced by Jacob's hand. Her last thoughts which ran through her head were: "I know pronounce you man and wife…"

Jacob devilish smiled flashed across her vision as a vile substances was being forced down her throat as she began to pass out.

…..

In the Chavanne townhouse, things were in quite an uproar downstairs, but old Mrs. Meriwether was quite silent in what she did. Up the back steps she went, carrying a bundle wrapped in many layers, mumbling to herself all the prayers and luck charms she knew. At the top of the stairs she glanced around, to make sure she would go unseen, and was glad to find the hall nearly deserted. To the nursery she traveled, and there she saw the darling, little Catherine. Quickly placing the bundle in the bed with Catherine, she snatched Catherine up as quickly as she set it down, for it was bad luck having a dead babe and healthy one lying together. Gathering several things of use, and clothes, etc., Mrs. Meriwether left the house, grabbing the first stage coach she could.

"Hello there ma'am," asked the young stage boy, "Where are you headed?"

"Back to Ireland," smiled Mrs. Meriwether with the wrinkles and laughing lines of age showing. Then glancing down at the wide eyes little girl she smiled again, for all her grays and wrinkles, she would have to take good care of this child, as the Mistress had instructed. Looking back to the sky, she smiled, she was heading home.

Again looking at Catherine, she decided she's call her, Rin instead, "Rin," she mumbled receiving a laugh and a clap from the little brown eyed nymph, with quite a mop of brown hair, which as dark as the night's sky.

Smiling she held the child close, as their journey began.

It had been nearly a week, since the nuptials between Mr. Jacob Carte and Countess Chavanne, and for everyday that Elizabeth failed to answer Jacob's questions who tell him what he wanted to hear, she was starved or isolated in her remote room, lacking in furnishings. Thoughts of what were to become of her were not the forefront of her mind though. She was late, scandalously late. Late in that sort of way no single woman should be late. What was she to do, if this continued, Jacob would know the child wasn't his since he had yet to commsumate their marriage.

Kitty was in a state of shock and confusion, never had she foreseen these events, Elizabeth had always been so paranoid, but she had always laughed off Lizzy's worries. Sitting on the window sill she felt like she was back in Hertfordshire again, watching the window, and all who passes, the only exception was no longer was she looking for the latest militia or a visit from one of the Lucases or her Aunt, but waiting for a sign, for something, anything.

Glancing at Jane, Kitty felt all the sadness in the world. Jane seemed affected the most, most days since Kitty had returned; she sat in the front pallor, looking into space as if in a daze. Occasionally she might mumble something, or she cried in to Bingley's shoulder, for he had not left her once since all of this. Everyone looked so worn, years had been drained off many in the room, and she wished that this could all be over and she might be a simple girl in Hertfordshire, with no cares, like she was practically three years ago. Before Lydia, damn her, had ruined them, before Lizzy and Jane, changed from wise older sisters, to paranoid women, especially poor Lizzy always glancing behind them, covering their tracks.

Across the hall she could hear, Richard and Mr. Darcy arguing. Arguing over their marriage, over the fact that Catherine was gone, that Wickham was here, that Lizzy was gone, and who would take care of them.

Catherine, the poor girl, born into such a chaotic life, and now she was gone. The poor child, had someone been watching better, had the maids noticed perhaps the poor little girl would still be alive. Lizzy, if they ever saw each other again, would be devastated. They were falling apart, one by one the Bennet girls, were falling apart. Darcy when he found out that Catherine was dead, went on a rampage, threatening the maids, yelling about if they knew how to do their jobs right.

Since Darcy had ripped apart the house, only to find that a simple key on a silver chain. The key's top was very intricate, triquerta, an old Irish symbol for luck, and across the center was engraved a number.

Since then Mary had begun to restore the house, seeing to it that the maids cleaned properly, and other than that she played the piano forte. Even now as Kitty sat in the pallor she could hear the upstairs music drifting down the stairs, it was an old tune, one which reminded her very much of the old manor Longbourne which had been home.

…..

"For God's sake Darcy, I have married her, and that's the end of it," Richard said in a voice full of ire.

"Richard," Darcy turned on his cousin, "Do you not realize, she is still young, she is the same age as Georgiana. You cannot simply run off with a girl her age and get MARRIED!...Do you even have affection for the girl, or is this just one of your flings?"

Richard's face turned beet red, and glaring at his cousin, he hollered, "I do love her. She is amazing, she in all the goodness and humor, I believe the world could ever possess. For unlike you I do not scorn those I love, and unlike you I do not go about controlling the love affairs of others. For if you hadn't then perhaps the former Bennet girls would not be in the situation, but safely ensconced in Netherfield. So do not lecture me Darcy, I will do what is best for my WIFE and OUR family," and just when Darcy thought Richard was done he went on to slam Darcy, saying in a tone that is too passive for the previous rage, "You know Darcy, I do believe that had you done things right almost three years ago, perhaps Elizabeth would be with you in Pemberly." And with that Richard left the room, leaving Darcy who slammed his fist down violently on the desk.

Sitting down in the chair, Darcy slouched letting out a deep breath he hadn't realized he was holding. Taking the key and twisting it around in his hand, he fell into deep thought.

….

Several maids walked into the house, two to be exact, coming from the back kitchen doors, they spread their news. Hushed voices, and whispered gasps spread like wildfire through the staff, finally reaching the ears of Mrs. Merina. Mrs. Merina was a middle aged woman. Hearing what was being said she immediately went to tell her employer.

Walking up to the sitting room she glanced in, Miss Chavanne was in no condition to be told, and that left the younger Mrs. Fitzwillaim. Clearing her voice she asked, "Mrs. Fitzwilliam may I have a word with?"

Kitty nodded, and led Mrs. Merina to the dining room, closing the sliding doors behind her.

"Yes, Mrs. Merina?"

"I am sorry to disturb you, but I knew it would be wise to tell you what the staff has been whispering, Mrs. Fitzwilliam," taking a breath, she continued, "They are talking of the newlyweds, ma'am. That Mr. Carte has married the Countess, your sister. They say it was all hush, hush and that they eloped after the masque."

Kitty's glare was more than words could say and Mrs. Merina went, "I swear ma'am this is what I have heard, I told the other girls to hush about it, and I came straight to tell you. There is also something else, they say the Countess's brother-in-law was at the wedding as a witness on her behalf."

"Is that all they have said?"

"Yes, ma'am. I told you all I know."

"Thank-you," as Mrs. Merina went to leave Kitty went on, "Have my husband and his cousin sent here immediately so you may tell them what you have told me."

….

Days went by like weeks, for Elizabeth as she sat in her room, at Jacob's house. Wickham occasionally visited, sharing common news, sharing with her the deaths, even the death of his own child, her niece with her. Sometimes he would leave so infuriated with her comments, and other days Jacob would come and he would leave. It was ironic, Wickham had come to bargain with her, to hold her in his grasp, yet now they were both held in the grasp of Jacob, they were each other's only companions. Though Wickham had free range over the mansion while she did not.

It was on one of these rare days where Wickham just simple sat in the chair, and stared off, he said, "You know I once thought I might have married you, but you were too smart to wise, and thus Lydia was an easy replacement for you."

Glaring at Wickham she replied, "Is that a compliment and are you totally oblivious?"

Though Wickham didn't respond, his faint smirk unnerved her. He went on, "I do believe today is a dying day."

"Everyday is dying, fool, or are you referring to one of us?"

"I think I might die one day soon."

"I shall thank God on the day."

"You will miss me, Elizabeth, I am the spice of your world."

Glaring she said, "Perhaps I do not want any spice in my world."

"Now, Elizabeth you would not be you without it."

It was then that Jacob came into the room, in one his drunken fits. Renching the door open, "Get out Wickham, my wife and I have yet to settle something."

Elizabeth looked pleadingly at Wickham whispering, "Should you have any honor yet, save me."

Wickham only glanced fearfully between the two and quickly left the room. Running down the steps and through the front gate of the house he began to scream, "Police, somebody police, police, please, anybody!" he yelled through the streets of Florence.

Several officers, came after him asking what could be wrong, and telling them of the abduction in brief words and little details, they immediately went running. Wickahm wasn't wise but surly he wasn't stupid, leaving his name out of anything suspicious. Upon arriving at the house they could hear the shouts and glass being shattered.

At the front gate stood John, shouting someone must help her.

Shouts came from the second floor windows. A raving man, shouted, "I will find you sprite just you wait, I will."

The maids and house staff in general were running out the doors, screaming, that he, the master, was going to murder them all. As the police rushed up the stairs, they found a woman, with long brown hair sprawled at the top of the steps dead, in her white nightgown. As the maids ran, through the house, the officers found their way to the upper most floor where the man stood on his terrace.

Jacob stood, there shouting, "ELIZABETH, I WILL FIND YOU."

Outside several more women, in nightgowns or middle class dresses, obviously not a part of the staff, ran from the house as well, one with very fine eyes, too.

…..

A single letter arrived at the Chavanne townhouse, the letter was addressed to the Miss Chavanne and Family, from the police of Florence.

To Whom It May Concern:

Recently the Countess Elizabeth Carte was found dead at her husband, Jacob Carte's, house.

We are sorry to inform you of your loss.

Suspected to have been murdered by Jacob Carte this afternoon, he will be prosecuted for the abduction and murder of the former Countess. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Sincerely,

-etc.

The grief which rippled through the Chavanne townhouse was great. Poor, poor Jane simple broke down her sobs echoing through the silence of the house. Mary was silent her stare, was most frightening still. Kitty sat in Richard's arms, silently weeping, for what would they do without their Lizzy? Richard simply rocked Kitty back and forth, trying to comfort her.

Darcy though was most errant, he yelled that it wasn't true, he knocked chairs in his path over, slamming doors, making the wall decorations fall and shatter. Never had anyone seen Darcy been such a rant as this. He vowed that someday, somehow he would get the Cartes for what they had done, for Elizabeth.

…

It had been three years, since she had run, three years since she ran through that house, running for her life, since she saw him murder that girl. Since she had seen her family since she had seen anyone she loved. As she stood on the hill in the place she now lived, she wondered how they were, if they had gone with life as she had hoped. From her tiny hill in Ireland, Lady Elizabeth Dunin, wondered what had become of them.

When she had inherited, from the Countess, she had inherited the land in France and England, but the land in Ireland was known only to the Countess, for it was for where her second husband had lived. This was Elizabeth's haven, where she had went to escape the world.

Walking back to the house she saw Mrs. Meriwether, giving Rin her hat and shawl, which the little girl fervently threw at the ground. Dashing away from the flustered Mrs. Meriwether, she ran toward Elizabeth, "Momma, Momma you must come see what I have done. I made a jungle in my room, and Edward," suddenly the girl's demeanor changed, huffing, "and EDWARD tried to attack me. Momma tell him he is no monkey."

Elizabeth laughed at the antics of her niece, though since moving here she had said she was her mother.

"Miss Rin, you mustn't be running around without a shawl or jacket, or you'll catch a death," cried Mrs. Meriwether. Though Rin simply danced around Mrs. Meriwether, and through the front door without a care for what the woman said.

Elizabeth laughed, she saw so much of each of them in her. She saw Kitty and Lydia in her wild behaviors, Jane's gentleness, Mary's habit of lecturing especially when it came to Edward, and then there was the witty side which she saw which she thought was from her.

Catherine, now affectionately called Rin, looked enough like Elizabeth to be her daughter, and acted enough like her, running around on adventures, and trying to read when Elizabeth read, and mirror everything Elizabeth did.

Elizabeth's life, may have not been perfect, but Elizabeth was content with where she was now. She only hoped that those she had left behind had moved on and found happiness.

….

"Miss Georgiana Darcy," asked the hesitant Lord Devon, "will you marry me?"

Georgiana could hardly contain herself when she replied, "Yes, yes, yes," she cried. Tears swam down her face which was consumed by such happiness. Two years ago she had met Lord Devon of Ireland; he was handsome with dark black hair, bright blue eyes, and very, very tall. He was absolutely charming. In all the unhappiness her family had suffered, he had been her shining beacon of happiness, and now here she was engaged to him.

"I will ask you brother for permission this evening after we dine," he replied with a boyish smile, eyes twinkling.

…..

Darcy sat at his desk, which was consumed by paperwork. Papers regarding his finances, his properties, but there was a smaller pile, which had in it information, anything he could gather on Elizabeth. Everything though in that pile led to dead ends, the only thing which truly had any potential was the funny key which rested upon the top of the pile.

His dark office, lit only by some rays of sun which drifted through the curtains, was where Darcy spent most of his time now. Nothing in the room possessed any happiness or cheer, all it was dark and dreary, much like the mood in which Darcy had lived since Elizabeth's death, his Elizabeth. He could never accept that she had died, when he and Kitty had gone to identify the body, he just couldn't believe it was her. When looking at the pasty, complexion, covered by cuts and bruises, it did not break his heart the way he believed it would. He couldn't accept that this broken body was his strong Elizabeth.

If such an awful tragedy did not break his heart, did he truly ever love Elizabeth? He cursed himself for even question his love of Elizabeth, he had loved her more than any of the money, properties, anything of the world, even the air which kept him alive.

A knock, disturbed his thoughts, calling for whoever was to enter. In walked Kitty, she looked more like Elizabeth that any of her sisters had. Though her complexion was slightly darker, and her hair slightly lighter, and sometimes one could still see the influence Lydia had had upon her if you looked closely, otherwise she was another Elizabeth.

In she walked, stylish, and elegant, with a soft look, she smiled at Darcy, walking along his desks she glanced at the key, and back to Darcy's worn expression.

"You have to let her go," she said with such strained tone, a sadness rested in her eyes that now always seemed to be there.

"I can't," Darcy responded unable to look her in the eye.

"You're killing us, killing us all, with this ridiculous quest to find…whatever it is you're trying to find," Kitty looked at Darcy, his head resting in his hands shaking his head at her words. An anger rose up inside at her, "Do you not realize we loved Elizabeth we all did, she saved us," referring to her and her sisters, "But she would not have wanted this. Along with that you are destroying Jane, she cannot function with you constantly searching, and it kills her the most. Darcy you must let her go," taking a breath Kitty always felt sorry for Darcy, he had loved Elizabeth, Richard had told her of what he knew. Looking now at Darcy she understood, his pain as much she could, and simple said in the most sympathetic tone, "If you love her, you will let her go."

Darcy glared at her, a hatred he had towards her words, always her words, which so resembled the logic of Elizabeth. His anger quickly diminished when a small blonde haired child ran into the room.

The child could have been no older than two, with his blonde unruly hair, and big brown eyes which took in everything.

The little boy's eyes locked on his mother and he cried, "Momma," reaching his hands up for her to pick him up. Kitty smiled down at her beautiful son, and swooped him up into her arms; whenever she looked at her boy she felt such an overwhelming love.

"Benjamin, say hello to your Uncle Will," she said in a sweet voice.

"Hello, Uncle Will," he said with a bright smile as he tried to pronounce everything.

"Here they are," said a booming voice. Richard walked in, finely dressed, now Lord Debourgh, (thus making Kitty Lady Debourgh), having retired from the military.

"Hello, Darcy," he said with a genuine smile.

"You are looking well, Richard," Darcy said with a rare smile.

"Thank-you Darce…I am thrilled to hear of Georgiana's engagement."

Kitty turned to Darcy with such a wonderful smile, "Oh, yes, that is wonderful, when she wrote to me of it, I was ecstatic for her. She deserves this."

"Georgie?" questioned Ben.

"Darce," Richard began, "Can you believe such a wonderful lad, and also a Lord. We are all quite excited about this trip to Ireland."

…..

Jane, after at least a year of melancholy and depression, she had married Charles Bingley. Together they had a single child, a little girl, with strawberry blonde hair and green-blue eyes, at two she was much the charmer, they had named her Bethany. Just barely 18 months, and she waddled next to her mother into the Pemberly hall, grasping at her mother's skirts to try and keep up, but refusing to be picked up. Bethany in much contrast to her parents had quite a sour temper, though she was usually quite sweet and very quite.

Bingley had not changed much in the three years since Elizabeth's death, he had of course grown to love Jane ever the more, and of course he adored his darling daughter. Always kind and understanding, both, Charles and Jane, were good parents along with being good employers. Hearing the commotion from Darcy's study, the Bingleys proceeded down the hall.

…

Together the Darcys, Bingleys, and Fitzwilliams were a tight knit group, a constant group where if one saw a Darcy then you were shore to any of the others as well. Where one went they all went, and because of this they were much the talk of town.

Along with being so closely knit they were also quite caught up with the Chavanne mysteries. For the death of the Countess had been quite the talk throughout Florence, France and England. Many spoke of her mysterious origins, that her murderer was indeed her rival for the money, that she had been some sort of con or that she had truly been a of lineage to her predecessor, that she was a black widow and attracted men to steal their money.

And then to top such scandal, it was quite a surprise when her sister, Mary Chavanne, gave up her whole fortune to marry her sister's murderer's brother, John Carte. The same John Carte, who had been there the day of her sister's murder, who was going to make a bargain for Elizabeth's life. It was also of no surprise that the newlywed Cartes stayed in Florence, lacking contact with her sisters in England. Who after their sister's death had immediately absconded to the English countryside.

…

A shady looking man sat in a pub, located in Munster, Ireland. Talking to another man, who was dressed in fineries, and carrying a small pad and pen quickly taking everything the shady man said down.

The bartender only heard, "…and that's how she lived…"

….

Munster was a lovely area with so much bustle and activity. Georgiana walked next to Lord Devon, though most called him Thomas. Kitty and Richard walked not far behind laughing and talking with the couple in front of them. Following next Kitty was her son, Ben. After them, Jane and Charles walked as well, pushing the stroller where Bethany sat.

Darcy walked behind the merry group lost in thought. Everyone was so happy, why couldn't he be happy, perhaps he should let the memory of Elizabeth go. Looking at Jane he understood what Kitty meant, Jane was very fragile and when it came to discussing Elizabeth she broke down.

Darcy was slowing down, forgetting to keep up with the group. Lost in the hustle and bustle of the crowds, he realized he had lost his group. Walking quickly in the direction of the where he had last seen them, he was plowed into by a small child.

Large brown eyes stared curiously up the wall she had just run into. Looking around quickly she asked, "Will you play?" before Darcy could even respond, she went on, "When Mrs. Meri comes, hide me," and with that she dove behind Darcy's legs.

Darcy was confused as ever, looking at the girl, her brown eyes scanning the crowd for someone, her brown curls bobbing around her head. Then her eyes widened and she ducked down, looking the direction in which she had, he saw an elder woman, a little round, with her gray hair tied up in a bun carrying a child in her arms.

The little child was waving his hands, like he didn't know asking, "Rin? Rin?"

The elder woman huffed, "Miss Rin, come back here right this instant." The elderly woman spotted him, "Sir, have you seen a girl, about five, brown hair and eyes."

Just as Darcy was about to respond, he gasped, for the little girl had kicked him with all her might in the back of his leg. Turning to glare at the girl, who looked at him with accusing eyes.

"Sir, excuse me sir, but have ya seen the girl?" asked Mrs. Meri in a flurry.

"No madam, I have not," he said with a calm face. With that the woman scurried on, and Darcy turned back to the girl, "Now why are you hiding?"

The girl suspiciously glanced out to if the elderly woman had gone and then looked back to Darcy, "I am running away."

"Why?"

"I have to find my father," said the little girl.

"Why not go home. If he is there then that nice old woman has probably been sent by him."

"No, she helps Momma with me and Eddie, but even Momma said once that my real mother is dead, and my father…," looking around checking the perimeter, "Momma, says that my real father, is not good man."

"Then why are you looking for him?"

""Cause this way he'll stop bothering Momma," Rin said as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

"Well, I think you should head home," pointing toward Mrs. Meri, "I am sure she will take you home, and think of how much it will hurt your mother if you don't go home."

Rin weighed the words heavily, her eyebrows furrowing in thought, "I suppose I'll go home this time…Sir, will we ever meet again?" she asked with big eyes.

"I do not know, but I should hope one day we meet again," Darcy said with a kind smile.

"Oh, I sure do hope so, and I think Momma would like you too," and with that she sped off to Mrs. Meri, who quickly embraced the child, holding her tight.

Now Darcy had only to figure out where the rest of his group had disappeared to.

…

Once Darcy had found his group they had proceeded to the ancestral home of Lord Devon.

….

Elizabeth sat on the hillside, an hour or so walk from her home. Here she could see the old Cathedrals, the Devon castle, she could see her dear Trilan castle, and this was her favorite spot in the entire world. Off in the distance she could see riders headed from the Devon's. She was greatly happy for the engagement of the young Lord Devon, such a nice handsome young man, he deserved someone wonderful.

While laying back in the tall grass, she stared up at the sky for an immeasurable amount of time, until a small face peered over her. Rin blocked Elizabeth's view of the sky, her brown curls falling on the sides of her face. Smiling the girl asked, "Momma, Mr. Meri is looking absolutely everywhere for you."

Elizabeth smiled, "So then I suppose we should head in, as to not worry her to death, my dear."

Laughing the little girl said, "Of course, or else who would take care of Edward?"

Elizabeth laughed, getting up she quickly encompassed the Rin's hand in her own as they walked back toward Trilan. Looking at Rin, Elizabeth could not imagine how she had seen such a child, as a nuisance and troublesome.

….

"Brunch shall be quite lovely, Miss Darcy," offered the elder Lady Devon, smilingly warmly at Georgiana.

Georgiana smiled back, slightly intimidated by the woman and this brunch. Lady Devon, though affectionate, had a look about her that made her seem like a queen. Lady Devon's dark, almost black brown hair, pale complexion, and deep brown eyes which seem to see everything intimidated Georgiana.

Lady Devon continued talking, "Oh, and you shall meet Lady O'Hara, and her daughter Miss Laura, and there will Mrs. Bailey, and her two boys, the eldest boy has just now turned seven is quite the charmer, and the other is five and as brawny as a field worker," Lady Devon laughed, "and of course you meet their husbands, but my favorite is Mrs. Bennet, her and her children are the most lovely, witty company one of my age could ask for."

Georgiana couldn't breath, a Bennett here in Ireland, perhaps she was a relative of Kitty and Jane, and she blurted out, "Oh, then perhaps she is a relative of Kitty and Jane, they are of the Bennets in Hertfordshire."

"You don't say dear, why our Mrs. Bennet speaks of Hertfordshire quite fondly. Yes Elizabeth, Mrs. Bennet, use to say she hailed from there, traveling quite a bit until her late husband's tragic death."

Georgiana was in a shock "Elizabeth", could she be, tempted she asked, "If you wouldn't mind, how did her husband die?"

Lady Devon's face seemed to change and she glanced around making sure the servants weren't listening, leaning in she began, "Well I asked myself that same thing when she showed up here just under three years ago, and rumor or scandal," she said with a wink, "has it that she never married. If her story is true her husband died when they were on the continent, but many speculate, that she is not truly of any Bennetts, but a rich heiress who had children out of wedlock, but that's just a rumor and no one frankly cares much around here anymore." Lady Devon waved it off, and went on to another topic.

Georgiana whispered a soft, "Elizabeth…"

…..

The guests had begun to arrive, and Georgiana greeted each one with care and kindness, though the conversation with Lady Devon from earlier still weighed heavily upon her mind. She hadn't told anyone, not even Kitty. Her brother and everyone mingled throughout the rooms greeting and talking to the others.

To her right stood, Thomas (Lord Devon), and then to his right stood his mother. That's when she saw them, in skipped the girl first, with her big brown eyes and dark curls, after that tottered a boy trying to catch up, the boy looked vaguely familiar like a picture or something she had once seen. Lady Devon immediately said hello to Miss Rin, and Mr. Edward. It was then that she saw her. She was a graceful as ever, with elegance dancing about her, it was Elizabeth.

"Well hello, Mrs. Bennet," smiled Lady Devon, "I see you brought the children, they will be pleased to know that the Snyder and Beckworth children are here as well. May I present to you my future daughter-in-law, Miss Georgiana Darcy?"

Elizabeth face never changed, no emotion or recognition flashed in her dark eyes, nothing, but a polite smile, "Hello, Miss Darcy, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"The same as well, Mrs. Bennet, Lady Devon has told me so much about you," Georgiana stared straight into Elizabeth's eyes as she spoke trying to read some response in them, but there was nothing, "I will have to introduce you to my family, you look exceptionally, like me dear cousin, Catherine. Does she not Lady Devon?"

"Why now that you say something Miss Darcy, I do believe she does. Quite fascinating," remarked Lady Devon.

For the first time, Elizabeth's eyes showed something, a challenge. Smiling vaguely, "I do believe I will head in now, and perhaps I will meet you cousin."

Elizabeth mentally smacked herself for not looking further into this, not practicing and most importantly for letting herself get into this situation.

….

"EDWARD!" cried the young girl, though it was not in fear but in anger, "And the Blonde Boy too!" Racing after them bows falling out of her neatly done hair. Off in a corner, of a room they probably shouldn't have been in Edward laughed with his new friend, Ben.

….

In another place, a book was being written of the scandal and intrigue of the former, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, by none other than Wickham.

"Excuse me, Miss Rin?" asked Darcy, startling the little girl. He continued, "Miss do you think you should be in this area of the house and where is your mother?"

"Oh I wouldn't be if it wasn't for Edward, my brother and the other boy. They left me, they ran off and left me sir!" she said stamping her foot, "And my mother is somewhere with the other guests, and I don't know where they are, and will you not tell her I kicked you, and…and…and …," rambled Rin, "and who are you?"

"Crouching down so that he was eye level with her, he said, "I am Mr. Darcy, but you may call me Will," he said extending her hand so she could shake it.

Grabbing his hand with a smile, she said, "I am Miss Catherine Bennet, a pleasure to me you sir," her eyes lighting up with some hidden spark as she spoke.

"Bennet, where is your father from?"

"I don't know sir, mother says we aren't to talk about it in public anymore," answered Rin, but without any feeling.

"And your mother what is her name, does she look like you?" asked Darcy almost hoping perhaps these estranged Bennets might lead him to Elizabeth.

"Oh they tell me I look like her, but mother she says I look like her sister, her sister umm…aunt …L something, you'll have to ask mother," she smiled as she finished.

"Is your aunt's name, Lydia?" Darcy practically begged the girl.

Rin's eyes twisted into puzzlement, "I am not sure Will, you will have to ask mother, and her name is Elizabeth."Just as Rin finished her statement, Darcy scooped her up into his arms and began to run toward where the company was gathered. Rin laughing gaily as Darcy ran.

…

"Edward, we must leave, where is your sister?" Elizabeth demanded.

Edward glared at his mother and cried, "I do not know!"

Grabbing Edward, Elizabeth walked toward Lady Devon, "I am sorry, but it seems Edward is running a fever I must take him home immediately. Have you seen Rin?"

"Oh dear, no," Lady Devon smiled, "How about after brunch I send her home with my housekeeper, Mrs. Wern. This way she can play with the other children."

Elizabeth smiled and thanked Lady Devon, accepting her offer, and leaving the brunch.

…..

Just as she had left, Darcy ran into the room looking for Elizabeth. "Do you see your mother?" asked Darcy with anticipation.

Suddenly tears welled up in Rin's eyes, "No she is not here, and she has left me."

Lady Devon immediately spotted, Rin and Darcy, "Mr. Darcy… Miss Rin, you just missed your mother, it seems your brother has caught something had to be taken home. Mrs. Wern will be taking you home after brunch."

"I need to get home to Momma," cried Rin.

Darcy snatched this chance, "Lady Devon, I will personally see to it that Miss Rin is taken home immediately, if you don't mine?"

"Well if you do not mind and if you are willing to miss the brunch? Then yes you may, and you can use one of my carriages." And with that Rin and Darcy were off.

….

"Mistress there is a visitor in the study for you," remarked Mrs. Meriwether.

"Thank-you," replied Elizabeth while removing her gloves and coat, "Edward go play upstairs." Walking into the study she never expected to this man.

"Lizzy it has been too long," he smiled crookedly.

"It has not been long enough, Wickham," Elizabeth said with venom.

"I knew I would find you eventually, just surprised I beat Darcy to you, and I even have brought a gift," gesturing to the table where a freshly bound manuscript lay.

"What is it?"

"Why Lizzy it is your biography, the scandalous and intriguing tale of Miss Elizabeth Bennet and it shall ruin you," smiled Wickham happily. He then added, "And may I see my lovely daughter, Catherine?"

"No, she is not yours!" Elizabeth said shooting daggers at Wickham.

"She is more mine than yours, Elizabeth. And I will see her, if not now, I will see to it that she is mine again," Wickham threatened.

"Get out; you are not welcomed here," Elizabeth said with such conviction, "You will this instant before I have you escorted out!"

Laughingly Wickham rose and left the house, smiling dangerously at Elizabeth before saying, "Your son, looks remarkably like his father I must say, has Darcy met the lad yet?"

The large door of Trilan slammed closed blocking the malevolent laughter of Wickham.

…..

Sitting in the study wear she had met Wickham about a half hour earlier, she cried as she looked at the book. She had skimmed though it, many things were truths and some were exaggeration, all would ruin her. She would have to run again. Laying her head in her arms on the table she closed her eyes and hoped for some peace to come upon her.

At the far end of the table was strewn the book of her life, her everlasting enemy. Its contents would destroy her children and all her family. The human word is quite a treacherous thing.

Rin led Darcy through the heavy red oak door of her home, Trilan. Hearing the silence of the house, Rin turned to Darcy and said, "Something is wrong. You must be quiet." Grabbing his much larger hand within her own she brought him to an ornate set of doors, opening the one and quickly pulling him through it.

Darcy looked into the brightly lit room, it was a study, what took his attention was the desk. It was a fine desk and sitting on just the other side of the beautifully carved and decorated desk, was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, Elizabeth. With her head down he could just make out the one side of her face, which was still flawless, and her dark brown hair was slightly amiss making her look wild and lovely.

Looking at Miss Rin he asked, "This is your mother?"

Rin whispered back, "Yes, but now I must go find my brother Edward," and with that she ran off.

Walking up behind her he gently stroked her cheek with his fingers, "Elizabeth," he whispered. Only receiving the smallest recognition, he picked her up from the chair and carried her to the sofa where he sat with her in his lap.

Carefully he brought his hand to her head, to make her face him and he said a little louder, "Elizabeth."

Startling Elizabeth she practically jumped out of his arms, but was securely held by Darcy who said, "You won't be getting away that easily," he said with a sly smile.

Not wasting any time at all he kissed her square on the lips, holding her tightly, leaving her breathless, and said in a strong, loving voice, "I, Fitzwilliam Darcy, love you Miss Elizabeth Bennet and you shall never leave me again."

Elizabeth practically laughed with joy, how her day was evolving was just too much. Elizabeth's smile faded sadly and turning her woeful eyes upon Darcy she said, "Fitzwilliam, I must leave here…"

"Why? When I have finally found you!" Darcy yelled.

Getting up and crossing the room Elizabeth grabbed the book and handed it to Darcy, "This is why."

Darcy examined the book, "What is this?"

"It is Wickham's. He delivered it to me, before you arrived," turning away she walked to the window, to stare out into the world.

"What does he want, why would he do this….how did he find you?" Darcy asked in exasperation.

"Wickham is blessed with many crooked friends, and my dealings in the past years have left scarce trails with several crooked people," turning to look at Darcy, "He wants money of course, but he wants something more, a black mail chip…he wants Catherine, his daughter."

"Rin?"

"Yes," smiled Elizabeth, "You know, not too long ago I thought her the worst thing in the world, that she simply was a way for Wickham to haunt me, and that is true, but I love her as if she were my own. I adopted her as well, she is one of my heirs," Elizabeth said with a sad smile.

Darcy was about to respond when an odd key caught his eye, it looked very much like the one he had found in Florence, picking it up he asked, "What is it to?"

"It's for the front door. You see the triquerta stands for the Trilan Castle, of Celtic Ireland. I left it there as a spare and also for a clue to find me," smiling even wider, "Did you like the painting?"

Darcy laughed, "Yes, may I ask where you found it?"

"Well you see the former Countess Chavanne was a close friend of…I believe she would be your grandmother, Cynthia Darcy? Well the painting was given to her as gift when she married and went away to France. And then she gave it to me," Elizabeth finished with a bright smile.

Suddenly there was a loud shout and then someone ran into the other side of the study door. Again another shout, and the door was swung open by Rin, who raced to Elizabeth side, yelling, "Momma …Momma…you left me at the brunch…I was so scared," cried Rin.

Elizabeth picked up Rin and soothingly rubbed her back, whispering soft sorry, and loving words. Darcy looked at Elizabeth wishing, that it was his children she would hold, and love.

"Mother!" shouted a little voice.

"Momma tell him to be quiet," Rin whined.

"Rin that is no way to speak of your brother," Elizabeth glanced at Darcy and quickly looked toward the door where Darcy stared at the boy.

There stood Edward, pouting in the doorway, arms raised to be picked up by his mother.

"Edward, come here," Elizabeth said. Setting Rin down she picked up Edward, "Edward, I would like you to meet a good friend of mine, this Fitzwilliam Darcy."

"You did marry, then?" Darcy asked heartbrokenly.

"Never, he is my child most definitely," setting Edward down she whispered into Darcy's ear, "A night at a masque, a country girl and a proud man from Derbyshire…" adding no more she stepped back to judge his reaction.

Darcy then proceeded to kiss Elizabeth passionately, each wrapping their arms around the other, holding each other close for fear of the other disappearing and the only reason it didn't go any further, was due to a resonating "eww" from the children.

"Let me stay with you, Elizabeth. Let your sisters see you again, Elizabeth. Let me be a father, please. I will find Wickham, as a family we will fight this," Darcy pleaded with Elizabeth.

"It would ruin you all, you have all survived this long without me, you will survive again," Elizabeth said turning away from Darcy.

"Elizabeth, we have just barely, and I know now that I have you again, I will never be able to survive without you. I will make it so Wickham will never haunt us again, if only you stay!" Darcy said anger at her for leaving again beginning to rise.

The children stood there staring at them, lost, Looking to their mother for guidance.

"What of Georgiana, what of my sisters, they are all happily married with children; I cannot ruin so many futures with my scandal and mistakes."

"Then I will marry you, fairly. I will marry the widow, Elizabeth Bennet, and no one shall know the difference. And we shall be a family again."

"Now is not the time Fitzwilliam," Elizabeth cried desperately.

"Then when is?" demanded Darcy.

"Leave," Elizabeth whispered.

"Never," Darcy replied, sitting down on the sofa.

"Momma," Rin added innocently, "I happen to like Will," and then she sat down next to him.

Darcy smiled, "See she likes me," gesturing to Rin.

Elizabeth glared. Edward getting angsty then added, "I like 'em too!" Running to Darcy and plopping down next to him as well.

"Not un. I said it first," argued Rin.

"I like 'em more!" cried Edward while throwing his fists in the air, and on the two argued, with Darcy smiling at Elizabeth.

Elizabeth couldn't believe this, these children; laughing she walked over to them and said, "Then I suppose I will have to let him stay."

Darcy pulled her down into his lap and asked, "Forever?"

Which was then echoed by both children, and Elizabeth answered, "We'll see."

They had spent the rest of that day together, watching the children, talking of anything and everything, loving the presence of one another. It was as if they had forgotten the years spent apart, they had started up right where they had left off.

He, ever proud, honorable, and noble. She, still teasing, witty, and enchanting. Together they made a striking match, and the children only added to their look. Each child as charismatic and enchanting as the couple. Together they seemed to form a perfect little family. It was at the end of this day though that this dream once more began to become more hazed and unsure.

"Elizabeth," Darcy whispered to her, as she sat watching her children sleep. They had sat watching them, until their heavy eye lids closed, and their breathing evened.

Darcy was amazed at them; each had a story to behind them. The once unloved and unwanted girl now loved with a family, and with a dark reputation ever chasing her in the form of her father. The boy who once had no father, and still had no father yet, a mysterious child who often would whisper to Rin when he thought no one might be looking. What he whispered Darcy knew not, but the two children shared each other's greatest confidences, even at such a young age, their bond would be eternal.

Elizabeth gazed up at Darcy from where she sat on the chair. Darcy standing tall above her, with such pride shining in his eyes for her and the children, especially his son. He had a son.

Elizabeth nodded, when Darcy reached out his hand, and she graciously took it. Wrapping his arm around her back, they quietly exited the nursery. Closing the door ever so softly, Elizabeth began walking down the corridor with Darcy in tow.

"Elizabeth, what happens now?" Darcy asked with uncertainty.

"I do not know," she replied without looking at him.

"I will not leave him, and nor will I leave her or you," Darcy stated with determination.

"How shall we return? …Will they want me back Darcy…Will they want the children?" Elizabeth turned around with tears in her eyes, "They will be so angry with me, my sisters they will hate me for hiding."

"No, No they will not. They love you, miss you. If you were to walk a mile, and have your petticoat six inches dip in mud they would still love you," Darcy said with a smile, provoking a laugh from Elizabeth. "And if they didn't which I highly doubt, I would keep you all for myself then, and never have to share you," Darcy said in loving tone.

"Marry me, Elizabeth. Marry me, so the world may know you are mine…so that we can have a whole brood of children…just marry me" noticing her hesitation he went on, "forget the opinions of others, the Elizabeth Bennet I met and fell in love with cared not for the opinions of others…not even those of the fierce Lady Catherine DeBourgh."

"That Elizabeth did not have to worry that her actions would affect anyone. I must worry; because these children will be golden and loved by society, so that may scandalous past does not harm them anymore."

"What a better way to silence scandal them to marry me, the ever eligible bachelor, Fitzwilliam Darcy…what say you Elizabeth?"

"What of Lady Catherine? How will she take this, she knows of my past and will corrupt my image as well as your own to the world," Elizabeth stated adamantly.

Darcy practically laughed, "Lady Catherine DeBourgh died sometime ago, and was proceeded in her station by cousin, Richard Fitzwilliam and his wife…Catherine Fitzwilliam or as we commonly call her...Kitty," Darcy finished with a sly smile.

"No," Elizabeth said in astonishment.

"Yes, they have been married since just before the masque."

"I knew she would, I suspected it, but I didn't want to separate them," looking into Darcy's puzzled eyes, "I was afraid of what he might do if he realized that she was the sister of the once penniless of Elizabeth Bennet, of what society might do…so I sent her back. It seems that all is well now," she finished with a sad smile, filled though with a happiness for her sister.

"Tell me of them…of my sisters," mocking her mother, "what has become of them?" she said dramatically.

"Well I shall have to start with Kitty…so you know she is married to Richard. I believe that they both love each other excessively. Kitty has also been taking care of what you left to her in the Will," pausing to take a breath, "They have a son, Benjamin, named after your father, Bennet….I suppose it is good then you named our son after your father's first name. He is a nice boy, a bit shy and mischievous. He takes after his parents in many ways. Then there is Jane, she married Bingley, and they have a daughter, Bethany, named after you. She is just about two," pausing again to breath, "Then Mary…she married John Carte. From what I hear they have no children and are living off his heritance from his brother. They live in Florence still…And you know my sister is to be married," Darcy finished smiling.

"Yes, it was quite a shock to see Lord Devon standing next to Georgiana this morning," Elizabeth smiled.

"So you never answered my question?" Darcy prodded.

"Can you grant me one favor before I answer?"

"Yes, Elizabeth."

"I want to meet everyone first, see them again, and let them see me for I have become. See if they hate me or love me. To know if ...if we could all be together once more."

"Everything shall be well. I promise," smiling profoundly he than asked, "When do you want to meet them…a dinner…at the market…or at some kind of public function?"

"I do believe, despite my mischievous nature that it would be best for them to meet me here at dinner," Elizabeth smiled equally back.

"Then a dinner it is, but for now I do believe that I quite exhausted, what of you?"

Elizabeth smiled, making her eyes sparkly, "I am quite tired Fitzwilliam, but not too tired," finished with a wink.

"Is that so," Darcy said suggestively.

Laughing she asked, "Mr. Darcy would you care for a tour of the house?"

"A short tour?" Darcy asked.

"Yes, just to down the hall," Elizabeth whispered huskily as Darcy pulled her closer.

Grabbing his hand, they walked down the corridor, several doors until they reached the master bedroom. From there it was passionate kisses, and sensual embraces, that led to a night of love making, and long buried desires for each other.

…

"I surely hope Fitzwilliam is well," Georgiana said to her company.

Kitty and Richard nodded their agreement, Richard added, "Knowing Darcy he probably met some chaps from Cambridge, and they are catching up on old times."

Jane smiled and said, "Yes, Richard is probably right no need to fear."

"It's just he has been gone since yesterday's brunch, and now it is the next morning shouldn't he have come home."

"We will hear word soon, Georgiana do not worry yourself to death," Kitty said warmly, "think of how wonderfully everyone loved you yesterday. You shall make an excellent Lady Devon I am sure."

They were suddenly interrupted by the butler who addressing Thomas said, "Eh hem. Lord Devon an invitation for you and your companions has arrived from Trilan. The Mistress of the Trilan formally invites you all to dine there this evening. Should you accept please arrive at five o'clock," finished the Butler.

Thomas addressing his companions to help them answer began, "She is quite a wonderfully lady, Mrs. Bennet of Trilan…"

Before he could continue Kitty stood up at the name Bennet and said, "We accept, and you can tell her that I said it shall be wonderful to meet her."

The butler nodded and went to relay the message, when Kitty said, "I have to go attend to something…something of importance, excuse me," and with that she rushed from the room.

….

Kitty raced up the stairs and into her rooms, running to her dresser she whipped out the wooden box. The wooden box with its intricate design of the Triquerta on top, whipping it open she, moving aside several of Elizabeth's old correspondences from before her death and dug for the key she knew rested at the bottom of the box. It was an exact replica, of the key which Darcy kept with him.

The box fell sharply from her lap, with no time for her to catch and as the lid hit the floor, it popped in two. The design had concealed a hidden compartment, just big enough for one single letter that fluttered out. Carefully picking up the letter, and opening it she read:

I hope that my clues weren't too hard to follow, but I had to make sure no one else found this. The painting I knew Darcy would find and the key. From there I thought the key would lead to this box and the key within. And thusly this note.

The key is for my estate, Trilan located in Ireland. If something should happen, I would like us to all go there.

Should you not go, it is fine, live your lives. I will think nothing of it and leave you in peace. Our secrets are all well kept and hidden, in one of the many estates I own. I hope to see you all here one day.

I love you each so much. Good-bye for now, your loving sister,

Elizabeth.

Throwing on a riding habit, and placing the key securely in a pocket, she raced out to the horse stalls, grabbing the first horse she saw saddled. Racing across the countryside, was quite unladylike, but Kitty didn't care, she was Kitty Bennet and she was going to sister her older sister possible for the first time in three years and nothing would stop her.

Practically jumping off the horse and racing up to the door, she stopped and stared at the massive twin oak doors of Trilan. Taking the key out of her pocket, she placed it into the lock and turned, the large doors seemed to open on their own from that point. Removing the key she grasped it tightly, clutching it to her chest.

She could hear a piano being played down the hall and followed the sound. Walking past massive statues, and a wide variety of columns, each depicting a story, or paintings, she carefully kept on going walking across the red oak floor. Passing several stairwells she stopped at a door, just barely cracked.

The bright light from the outdoors filled the room, casting out into the hall through the crack illuminating a column in the somewhat dark hall. Peaking carefully through the jar in the doors she could hear a familiar male laughter, a young girl, a boy as well, and another more familiar laughing voice, that of her sister. Deciding to watch just a little longer, she stayed completely still.

"Come now, Edward can't you be a pirate too," whined Rin.

"No Rin, I don't wanna be pirate," Edward cried impatiently, stamping his foot.

"Now come on, Edward, do not stamp your foot like that, you sound so spoiled," corrected Darcy.

Elizabeth laughed but agreed adding from her place at the piano, "We wouldn't another proud Darcy on our hands would we?"

Darcy glared at her only to receive another laugh from Elizabeth.

"Eddie you must run for your life," cried Rin dramatically as she held her makeshift sword over her head. Running toward Edward, who was quickly scooped up into Darcy's arms.

"Now Rin give your brother a chance to run before you strike," Darcy said as he set a squirming Edward done. Suddenly Edward raced over to Rin, tugging on one of her curls to make her listen. Bending just a bit, Edward whispered something into her ear that made her smile a broad mischievous smile. Glancing in Darcy's direction she nodded, and shouted, "ATTACK!"

She and Edward both ran at Darcy, trying to tackle him over. Playing along Darcy roared and toppled like they were hurting him. He was quite surprised when Edward launched himself off the sofa onto Darcy's back.

While Rin repeatedly tried to hit Darcy with her sword she shouted, "You must try and save Momma. We have captured her."

Exaggerating how much he struggled, he made his way over to Elizabeth. He tickled Edward to make him loosen his hold, letting Darcy set him on the ground, and then he scooped Elizabeth up right in the middle of her song, and put her right over his shoulder. Struggling Elizabeth shouted, "Fitzwilliam Darcy PUT ME DOWN THIS INSTANT!"

A deep jovial laugh escaped Darcy which was quickly followed, by two much more high pitched ones. Rin and Edward were both collapsed on the floor, laughing.

After Elizabeth's yelling and struggling stopped Darcy placed her gently on the floor, only to see her cross her arms, turn away, and humph at him. "Oh, Elizabeth it was all fun and games, forgive me," he whispered.

Turning around she said, "On one condition," a funny glint in her eye.

"Anything..."

"A kiss," Elizabeth whispered.

"My pleasure," Darcy replied before brushing his lips to hers.

They were interrupted by a loud shriek from Rin.

"Rin for heaven's sake what it is," cried Darcy in distress.

"There's a lady in the house…Momma!" looking again at the door she pointed, "She looks like you," she finished quietly in a whispered like tone.

The door was then pushed open by Kitty, who stared strangely at the picture the four made. It was that of picturesque, a perfect little family, and then her sister. A sister long dead now stood before her.

Tears peaked at Kitty's eyes as she demanded, "Is it you?"

"Yes, Kitty."

Kitty rushed at Elizabeth, whom Elizabeth held tightly with all her might, rocking them back and forth softly.

"Come with me children, we must leave your mother for a bit," Darcy said leading the children out of the room.

Tears were streaming down both women's faces.

"How could you have left me like Elizabeth, I depended on you to be there…and we were so mad when you left," cried Kitty.

Elizabeth shushed Kitty with calming whispers and said, "I am so sorry Kitty…I wanted to come back, but I thought it best I stay away…even scandal surrounds me now and no one knows of my past."

"Are you back now…because if you are not I am sure Darcy will not let you leave," Kitty said with some happiness.

"I do believe you are right," Elizabeth replied with a smile, "I heard you had a son, and are married to the Colonel."

Kitty smiled marvelously but did not stray from her earlier question, "Are you staying?"

"I am," smiling Elizabeth asked, "Would you like to meet Edward and Catherine?"

"Elizabeth did you marry?" Kitty asked puzzled.

"No, Catherine is out niece and Edward, mine and Darcy's."

"You mean she didn't die," seeing her nod from Elizabeth she went on, "and how is he …"

"The night at the masque," Elizabeth blushed.

"Oh Lizzy this is the best day ever, I have a new niece and a nephew and most importantly my sister back," she cried as she launched herself on Elizabeth in a hug.

"Oh I have to meet them…I listened for a while to you all, and I must say you make quite a perfect family…you shall have to have more children," Kitty winked suggestively, "and you shall be the first to know my wonderful news," taking a deep breath she smiled, "…I am pregnant again."

Elizabeth smiled saying, "Who would of thought my sister the second Lady Catherine DeBourgh of Rosings?"

"Not me," Kitty replied laughingly.

…..

A note arrived at Devon, that Lady DeBourgh would meet them at Trilan along with Mr. Darcy.

When the party arrived at Trilan, they were escorted into the drawing room. It was expensively furnished, large draperies hung on the high windows, and antique furniture was scattered tastefully around the room. It was something fit for Buckingham Palace.

"Mrs. Bennet has always had a tasteful sense of decorum," Lord Devon said to those in their party.

Richard though couldn't honestly care about the room, looking pointedly for his wife, while his son toddled next to him. Jane carrying Bethany, and Bingley casually walked in last, followed by the nanny. It was then that a whirlwind ran by them through the door.

The little brown eyed girl stood in the center of the room in her yellow frock, with her big brown curls held back in a yellow bow. Staring wide eyed at them, she smiled mischievously, looking toward the door she whispered, "Should I start?"

An exasperated sigh came from the doorway, making the girl laugh. Smiling she said, "Good evening Lord…umm…Tom," smiling hesitantly.

"Good evening to you Miss Rin," smiled back Lord Devon, "Where is your mother?"

"Shush. I haven't gotten there yet," she said scornfully, only eliciting a laugh from Richard and Lord Devon.

"I am Miss Catherine Bennet," she said with a smile. They all looked at her stunned and she went on, "I would like to introduce to you my brother, Mr. Edward Bennet, and my mother Mrs. Elizabeth Bennet." A gasp shot through the room, when in walked Elizabeth on the arm of Darcy.

Lord Devon looked perplexed between to the Elizabeth and the rest of the group. Kitty then snuck in, walking over to Richard.

The family had been reunited, there would be many more tosses and turns in the road ahead for the Bennets, but they had survived. Wickham would always be a thorn in their side, but they were together now, an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.

Georgiana did marry Lord Devon, having two children a daughter and a son, Darien and Lucy.

Jane and Bingley had four more children after Bethany. Three girls: Diana, Natalie, who both possessed blonde hair and blue eyes, looking the most alike out of all the children. Next was Mary who inherited dark brown eyes which contrasted with her dark red hair. Of all the cousins she was the most devious and would incite many confrontations. Lastly there was Charles Bingley II, he looked exactly like his father, and had the easy going temperament of both his parents. They bought Netherfield, and Rosewood, an antique house in Derbyshire not far from Pemberly.

Mary and John had no children. They never returned to England, they grew old together in Florence.

Kitty and Richard had the most children out of all. First was their son, Benjamin who would one day grow up to be taller than his father. Kitty's pregnancy turned out to be twins, twin boys. Both were the most devious and playful little boys one would ever meet. They weren't evil, but they had a wicked sense of humor, which their mother often scolded them for, and their father often laughed at. Their names were, Richard and Arthur. After them, they were four girls. The first girl Kitty considered a blessing, she had light brown hair and hazel green eyes, and her name was Delia. After her there was another set of twins, Christine and Suzanne. Both had stunning blue eyes, which Richard claimed were true Fitzwilliam eyes, and curly light brown hair. Finally there was the unexpected and last child, youngest of her cousins, Lois. She had dark straight brown hair and eyes that seemed black. She was wild, and often would argue and battle it out with her cousin, Mary Bingley.

Finally Elizabeth and Darcy, they had five children after Edward. There were the twins, who born shortly after Kitty's. One boy, Jonathan who had inherited both his parents' dark hair and eyes. The other was a girl, Joanna; she had inherited the dark curly hair but had remarkable green eyes. After them came Angela, who had platinum blonde hair and striking blue eyes, she resembled very much her Aunt Jane, though when standing in Pemberly's Great Hall many claimed her to be the ghost of dead old Mrs. Anne Darcy. Not long after Anna Maria, came to be, she again was dark haired and eyes, with an exceptionally pale complexion. And the last Darcy daughter, she possessed a certain maxi that none of her cousins or sibling possessed, she was Josephine. She had dark, black eyes, and long black hair. She was also a favorite of both her parents.

Rin grew up as a Bennet, she was named Elizabeth heir to her estate in Scotland and Ireland. She grew up loved and adored by all her Aunts and Uncles, along with having the unwavering care of her "father" Fitzwilliam Darcy, who would do anything for her. She was a miniature Elizabeth in his eyes, so she had him wrapped around her pinky finger easily.

Darcy as a wedding present for Elizabeth bought her Longbourne, which was to be left to Edward. For an unknown sum, he had convinced Mr. Collins to sell it easily.

After their marriage, many were convinced that Elizabeth Bennet was a black widow, who married man for money and then had them killed. Stories of her knack for marriage and her vast fortune traveled far and wide and many pitied poor, Mr. Darcy for falling in her web. Over time though the stories died as Mr. Darcy lived, many forgetting the odd tales.

And that is all there is to say about the remaining Bennet sisters. Now their children on the other hand, that is quite another story.