Chapter One
A/N: This takes place after season two. I tried to make this as historically accurate as possible. I apologize for any discrepancies. All mistakes are mine. Rated T for dark themes.
Also, a huge thanks to pennythepants for taking the time to beta my work.
"Think you can beat me this time?" Ray asked. "I've made some upgrades to the suit."
Nate stood opposite Ray, wearing his patriotic armor. "Of course I can beat you," he shrugged. "It's just a matter of time."
"Well, then," Ray said, flipping his visor down and moving into a battle stance. "Let's do this." Nate put his fists up and turned into metal.
"I'm afraid to cut you short," Gideon's voice rang out. "But I have detected a time aberration."
Ray lowered his arms in disappointment. "Aw, I was really looking forward to crushing you."
"We'll see about that. Raincheck?"
Ray nodded. "Raincheck."
Ray and Nate walked into the bridge of the Waverider. Jax, Sara, and Stein were already waiting.
"What seems to be the cause of the aberration this time, Gideon?" Ray asked the AI.
"The seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, was not reelected in 1833," came the answer.
"That's not good," Nate said thoughtfully. "Political power will have shifted to the east, which would likely cause conflict among the nation. Jackson also vetoed the renewal of the Bank of the United States charter. If that charter stayed intact, the economy will have most likely plummeted."
"I'm afraid Mr. Heywood is correct," Gideon confirmed. "The state of the United States' economy became so poor, that it soon became a commonwealth for Great Britain."
"Did I just hear what I think I heard?" Mick asked, as he and Amaya joined the rest of the team.
"I'm afraid so," Stein confirmed. "It appears someone deliberately made sure Andrew Jackson was not reelected for president. Who knew he had such a great impact on our country?"
Sara nodded. "We need to stop this. Gideon, where did the time aberration happen?"
"March 27, 1829."
"Wait," Ray said. "I thought his reelection was in 1833."
"It is," Gideon confirmed. "But the time aberrations begin in 1829."
"Aberrations?" Amaya asked.
"There are multiple time aberrations dotting Andrew Jackson's timeline up to his reelection in 1833."
The team exchanged a look.
"It looks like someone really doesn't want Andrew Jackson to become president," Sara said.
"Gideon," Nate called. "You said 1829, right?"
"Yes, I did, Mr. Heywood."
"Why?" Jax asked. "What happened in 1829?"
"I believe Mr. Heywood is thinking about the Petticoat Affair," Gideon answered.
"I am."
"Petticoat Affair?" Mick smirked. "Sounds exciting."
"What is this Petticoat Affair?" Stein asked.
"Before he was reelected," Nate began explaining. "Andrew Jackson appointed John Eaton as his secretary of war."
"So?" Ray asked. "What's so scandalous about that?"
"Eaton had just married Margaret Eaton, formerly Margaret Timberlake, right before he became secretary of war. Margaret's first husband died at sea, and she married John Eaton not even a year after his death. This was seen as outrageous at the time and many rumors were spread. Andrew Jackson had a similar experience when he and his wife first came to Washington. Jackson sympathized with the Eatons and ended up having an entire new cabinet by 1831, due to rumors that were spread."
"Whoa," Jax said.
"Well, we're here to set things straight," Sara said. "Where is the time aberration in 1829?"
"It is in Washington D.C.," Gideon replied. "During a social dinner party attended by most of the major political figures of the time. They are celebrating John Eaton's appointment as secretary of war."
"Nate," Sara addressed. "You and I will go to the party to see if we can find anything there." Nate nodded. "Ray, Mick, and Amaya," Sara continued. "I need you guys to surround the building and be on the lookout for anything strange." Amaya nodded too.
"Got it," Ray said.
Sara looked at Mick. He grunted in acknowledgment.
"Jax and Stein, I need you two to stay in the Waverider and monitor everything. If things get out of hand, I'll need Firestorm to back us up," Sara concluded.
"Understood, Captain," Stein said, as Jax nodded.
"Good. Now strap yourselves in. Let's go ensure a scandal."
O
"What are we doing here? We haven't finished planning the heist," Leonard asked, annoyed.
Mick could tell Leonard had been getting worked up over the planning. "I already told you," he said to Leonard. "We need a break. What better way to do that than to get a drink?" He opened the door to Saints & Sinners.
Leonard scowled but followed Mick inside. "We can't stay here too long."
"Why not?" Mick asked, feeling as if his plans to get drunk were being dashed.
"I have to pick up Lisa from school. I know we never finished high school, but I want her to."
"Waste of time, if you ask me," Mick said with a shrug, approaching the bar. Leonard sighed but sat down next to Mick.
A young bartender, not much older than Mick and Leonard, approached them. Her black hair had orange and red streaks running through it, and fell just below her shoulders. She gave them a small smile, her eyes lingering on Mick for a moment. "What can I get you guys?"
"I'll take the strongest thing you've got," Mick said.
She raised her eyebrows and her lips quirked up, widening her smile.
Leonard gave Mick a warning glance, which was ignored. "I'll just take a beer," he said.
She nodded and looked at Mick one more time before going back to get their drinks. She returned a moment later, setting their drinks down in front of them. She gave them that small smile again.
She glanced at Leonard and then looked at Mick."So what brings you guys here so early in the day?"
"Does there have to be a reason?" Mick said, downing his shot and placing the glass back on the table.
For some reason that made her smile even more, and she looked towards the ground.
"I've never seen you before," Leonard said as he set his beer down after taking a long sip, wariness creeping into his tone.
She looked at him and ran a hand through her colored hair. "I'm new. A, uh, friend of mine pulled some strings so I could get the job." Leonard studied her a moment before taking another sip of his beer.
"Speaking of jobs," Mick said to the bartender. "I'd like another," he gestured to his empty glass.
"Of course," she said, and went back to get Mick another drink.
"You'd better be paying for your own drinks," Leonard said.
"I'll pay you back after the heist," Mick promised.
Leonard glared at him but took a drink without saying anything.
The bartender returned. "Here you are."
"Thanks," Mick said, downing this one just like the last.
"And that'll be his last drink," Leonard said, eyeing Mick.
"What?" Mick said. "You didn't tell me this was my last one! I would've enjoyed it more."
"Mick, it's a shot. There is no 'enjoying' it. There's just getting drunk," Leonard snipped back. He turned to the bartender, "I'll take the check."
She nodded at Leonard, glancing at Mick before she left. She returned a few seconds later. Leonard opened his wallet and gave her the right amount. He stood to leave. Mick sighed and did likewise.
"Do you come here often?" The bartender suddenly asked.
Leonard studied her, his eyes icy. He was about to say something snarky to get her to back off, but Mick interrupted.
"I guess you'll find out," he said, and then turned and walked away.
Leonard glanced back at her to see her grinning at Mick as he went through the door.
"She seems suspicious," Leonard said as soon as they exited the bar.
"You think everyone seems suspicious," Mick pointed out. He paused, then added, "I like her."
O
Sara and Nate walked into the social party, arms linked, fully dressed in 19th Century fancy garb. People were talking quietly and the room was filled with social buzz. Drinks were being served on platters and everything was lit by many flickering candles placed smartly around the room.
"We're in," Sara informed the team through the coms.
"See anything suspicious yet?" Ray asked.
"No." Sara scanned the room. "Not yet."
"Hello, there!" Someone greeted the two cheerily.
Nate and Sara turned to see a couple standing next to them, smiles plastered on their faces.
"I don't believe we've made your acquaintance," the man said, extending his hand. "I'm John C. Calhoun, and this is my wife, Mrs. Floride Calhoun."
Recognition sparked in Nate's eyes. "Oh, yes! Mr. Vice President," Nate said, shaking his hand and kissing his wife's. "It is nice to meet you both. I'm Nate Heywood and this is my, uh, -"
"Sister," Sara interrupted, curtsying. "Sara Heywood."
"Well, it is nice to meet you both," John said. "Mr. Heywood, would you care to join me and the rest of the gentlemen over there," he gestured to a group of men near the back, deep in conversation.
"Oh, uh," he looked at Sara, who gave him a subtle nod. "Yes. I would love to join you," Nate finished.
"Very well," John said. He smiled to his wife and then looked at Sara, "I'll see you two ladies later. The gentlemen and I need to discuss politics."
Sara quirked a defiant eyebrow, and Nate gave her a warning glance.
"I'll see you later," Floride said, giving her husband a gentle wave as he and Nate walked across the room. Floride turned to Sara. "It is very nice to meet you, Miss Heywood. Why don't I introduce you to the other ladies? I'm sure they'd love to meet you."
"Sure," Sara said, allowing Floride to lead her towards a group of women in ridiculously lavish outfits.
The group of women all greeted Floride as she came, and she smiled at them. "Hello, ladies. This is Miss Sara Heywood." They all waved, curtsied, and said hello.
"I don't believe I've seen you around," one of the women said.
"I have just moved here," Sara said.
Some of the women glanced at Floride. "Oh, ladies, relax," Floride said. "She is definitely one of us."
"One of you?" Sara asked incredulously.
"Why, an elite member of society of course," Floride said. "You have the clothes, the manner – and don't think I didn't see how your brother had to ask your permission to join the other gentlemen."
There was an accepting murmur among the group.
"Uh, thanks," Sara said uncomfortably. "Speaking of gentlemen, isn't this party for Mr. Eaton?"
The ladies muttered disapprovingly. A few of them glanced to a group of men next to the group Nate was in. She recognized Andrew Jackson as one of the people in the group.
"Mr. Eaton should be ashamed for marrying a harlot like Mrs. Eaton!" Floride said. She cast a quick glare at one of the men in the group with a woman by his side. Sara guessed they were probably John and Margaret Eaton. She raised her eyebrows. "A harlot?"
"Oh, yes," one of the other women said. "Haven't you heard the stories?"
Sara looked at them in confusion. "Stories?"
"Oh, Miss Heywood," Floride said in mock surprise. "That Mrs. Eaton is nothing like us. She's a flirtatious tavern maid! She wasn't born with rich blood like the rest of us."
Sara looked over at Margaret. She seemed engaged in the conversation. She wasn't bound to the silly societal rules that these women were. Sara liked that.
"She was also married to a Mr. John Timberlake not even a full year ago," another woman added. "He died while he was at sea. Well, that's what we all thought at first. It turns out, he committed suicide."
"Probably because his wife had been going around with Mr. Eaton so much," another added. "Must have broken his heart – all her wild antics – and he decided to end his poor life."
"Oh, yes," Floride said. "That Mrs. Eaton is trouble. She is a woman of easy virtue and doesn't belong here at all."
Sara looked angrily at these women. They were just seeing what they wanted to see – probably how they always saw – down their noses. Sara was about to give them a piece of her mind when Ray spoke through the coms.
"Hey, guys," he said. "I think I see something outside."
Sara looked across the room and she and Nate locked eyes. She nodded, but then turned to the women.
"You all need to get some perspective! Margaret has probably worked harder than any of you ever have! She came from humble beginnings. She had to work to be where she is now."
"Miss Heywood!" Floride gasped.
"And you were wrong about me. I'm nothing like you, and I hope I never will be," she smirked and curtsied. "Good day." She quickly turned away from the group, Nate appearing by her side.
"Ray," Sara said. "Talk to me."
"I saw someone climb down from one of the rooms upstairs. He's heading towards Mick," Ray said.
"I'll get 'em," Mick said, from his spot near the back of the house.
There were loud footsteps quickly approaching him from just behind the corner. Mick gripped his Heat Gun tightly. Someone quickly turned the corner, and Mick pointed the gun at the surprised man in front of him. He had dark hair, and his dark brown eyes widened in surprise upon seeing Mick. He immediately panicked and opened the nearest doorway, flying through it. Mick was right behind him.
"He's running back into the house!" Mick said through the coms, as he chased the man through the kitchen.
People moved away from them in alarm. The man burst through the doors of the kitchen and into the main room, which Sara and Nate had just left moments ago. A woman screamed and someone yelled in surprise. The man pushed his way through the crowds of people, but Mick was closing in on him.
The man suddenly grabbed a woman and pushed her at Mick. She ran into him, but not hard enough to knock Mick over. Mick gave her a quick glance as he removed her from him. She had an oval face, a perfectly round nose, black hair, and beautiful brown eyes speckled with amber. Mick felt like he had been punched in the stomach. She pulled away from him, and he realized he'd been staring. Mick blinked and turned just in time to see the front door of the house closing. He growled angrily and ran out the door.
He burst outside and looked around. The man was nowhere in sight. Mick heard someone running around the corner and raised his gun. It was Sara and Nate.
"Where'd he go?" Nate asked.
Ray and Amaya suddenly rushed from around the other side of the house.
"What happened?" Amaya asked.
"He got away," Mick said lowly.
"What do you mean 'he got away'?" Ray asked.
"What I mean, Haircut, is that he got away," Mick said hotly. He quickly stormed back to the ship.
"Well, alrighty then," Nate said.
O
"Look," Mick said, opening the door to Saints & Sinners. "I promise we won't stay long. Don't you have to pick up Lisa soon, anyway?"
Leonard just smirked as he followed Mick, yet again, to the bar and sat down next to him. Mick looked over and saw Leonard staring at the wall, his brow furrowed.
"Hey," he said elbowing Leonard. "The whole point of this is so you would stop worrying about the heist."
Leonard looked over at Mick. "We cut it too close last time."
"Mm," Mick said. "Maybe we did, but we got away, right?"
"Barely," Leonard said.
"So, what can I get you guys today?"
They both turned to see the same young bartender with the colorful hair.
"Just give me what I had last time," Mick said.
"Mick, that was almost a week ago," Leonard said. "I don't think she remembers."
"I remember," she said confidently.
Mick grinned at Leonard, "See? She knows how to do her job."
The bartender smiled and looked at the floor. She ran her hand through her hair and slowly looked up. She turned to Leonard, "What can I get you?"
"I'll just have a club soda."
She gave him an apprehensive look.
Apparently, Mick was in the same boat. "A club soda? You're not going alcohol-free on me, are you?"
"No," Leonard said. "But I have to pick up Lisa soon. I'm not riding with my little sister on my motorcycle while buzzed."
"Fair point," Mick said. He turned to the bartender.
"I'll get those right away," she said.
Leonard carefully watched her as she left. And then it suddenly clicked. He was an idiot. His initial suspicion that she was too nosy was true, but it wasn't for the reasons he was thinking. He thought she had overheard him talking about the heist last time, and somehow knew they were criminals, but it was something else entirely.
"What are you planning?" Mick asked.
Leonard blinked and turned to Mick. "I'm not planning anything."
"You have that look that you get when you figure out how to break into a building."
Leonard studied Mick for a second. "I just figured something out."
Mick scowled at Leonard, not appreciating being left in the dark, and was about to question him more, but the bartender returned and set their drinks on the table. She gave Mick a smile before she moved to the next people down the bar. Leonard turned to Mick, a small grin on his face.
Mick picked up his glass and noticed Leonard looking at him. His hand stopped awkwardly in the air still holding his drink. "What?"
Amusement lit Leonard's eyes. "Nothing," he said before taking a sip.
"No," Mick said. "There's something. What is it?"
Leonard took another drink and then stood up.
"Where are you going?" Mick asked.
"I gotta pick up Lisa, remember?"
Mick looked at the clock. "I thought she didn't get out of school for another forty minutes." He turned back just in time to see Leonard leaving the bar. Mick frowned. What was going on with him? Oh, well. He knocked back his shot and set it on the table.
"Would you like another?" The bartender asked. She gave him a soft smile. She looked beautiful when she smiled. Her face was a perfect oval and her nose was round in a way Mick found strangely adorable. Not that he'd ever use that word out loud.
"Uh, yeah, sure," he said, not sure why suddenly felt self-conscious.
She gave him that smile again and returned a moment later with another shot. She placed it in front of him. She jumped up on the bar and swung her legs over the side and gracefully landed beside Mick sitting down next to him.
Mick was suddenly assaulted with all sorts of weird feelings all at once. He was nervous, he had a random rush of adrenaline, and he didn't want to look away from the woman in front of him. He downed the shot in a second. He looked at her again. Her brown eyes had amber specks in them that he hadn't noticed before.
"We don't really have that many customers this time of day," she said, her hand tracing a dent on the bar. She looked up at him, "You don't mind if I sit here, do you?"
"Um," Mick said, his voice suddenly sounding incredibly weak. He cleared his throat, "I don't mind."
She smiled again and then looked down at her feet. She flicked her eyes back up to him, "What happened to your friend?"
"He had to go pick up his sister from school," he said, still a bit puzzled as to why Leonard left so early. "Or something."
"Oh," she said, looking at her feet again. She suddenly looked up, "I'm Peggy, by the way."
"I'm Mick."
She smiled, and Mick got another rush of adrenaline, "Nice to meet you, Mick," she said.
"You too."
Awkward silence.
"I like your hair. It reminds me of fire," Mick said lamely.
Peggy touched the ends of her hair, red creeping to her cheeks, "Thanks. I like fire."
"Fire is dangerous," Mick said seriously, not fully understanding why he was suddenly worried for her. He remembered what fire did to his family, and he didn't want her to make the same mistake he did. He didn't know why though.
"But it's beautiful," she said.
Mick studied Peggy. She reminded him of fire. Not the roaring kind that took his family. She reminded him of the small, delicate flame that danced in the slightest of breeze. That's when Mick realized they were only inches apart. Her beautiful amber-speckled eyes taking up most of his vision. Mick suddenly stood up, unsure of what he was feeling, or why he was nervous and excited at the same time.
"I should go," Mick said, looking at the door and then back at Peggy.
She looked unwavering into his eyes. "Okay."
Mick stared for another second, which only made things more awkward, before practically running out the door. He kept up that fast pace as he left the bar and for the next two blocks before he realized he didn't know where he was going. He slowed down and realized he was filled with adrenaline. What was going on?