Shift in Perceptions: Chapter Four
The three weeks passed rather quickly, and I was able to make arrangements with Albion's court, requesting my leave for expedition. Ben Finn will fill in my absence, granted the ability to make minor decisions and solve issues presented between towns and cities. I do hope he will be able to rule comfortably for a few months, and the country will not be in shambles when I return! Page agreed to of course keep an eye on him, and almost had a heart attack when I informed her who my co-captain was. She was relentless on reminding me of his games he plays, and how I must stay away from his harm. However, I did not tell her of my immortality; I am not ready for another to know.
Theresa has made no contact, and my sleep has thankfully remained void of visions. Sometimes I believe she doesn't care about my welfare. Fifteen innocent men in trade for what?- immortality! My life will be stretched forever and I don't believe I can endure such a curse. I suppose if I don't supply a sacrifice, I will become one myself... What is it she needs the greatsword for? I cannot even imagine what that power may bring!
Now, I am stuck on a ship in the middle of the sea with an egocentric man who wants nothing more to do with me than have my gold coin and a quick roll in the hay! Lewis will be with me, but his power is nothing compared to Reaver. I have done business with him and his Industry in the past, though they were short conversations and contract signing... and mustn't I neglect he almost mauled Page and I with balverines and other horrid creatures within his manor! This is absurd! I hope Theresa knows what she is doing, because I can't fathom what I have gotten myself into...
Evelynn and a few men she decided to bring strode anxiously towards the figures of two immense, wooden ships, guild in the light of the Sun now rising over the horizon. The fog was beginning to clear from the warmth of the rays, and gulls flew about in the crisp air while gypsies camped nearby waved and spoke joyfully as they were in the presence of their queen, receiving a smile from her.
As she grew closer, she saw as men, both young of age just becoming adults and some with silvering hair, carrying the last of crates and barrels up the gangway. Reaver must have spotted her arrival, and he made his way down to the makeshift dock to greet her. He was dressed with a luxurious blood-red vest, and a flossy ribbon around the neck. His sleeves were like his ribbon, poofy and a creamy white. He wore binding pants of an identical red, a gold belt and a gun holstered on the side, and ebony boots that traveled up is shin with what appeared a dagger sheathed. In her mind, he was actually quite dashing though she hated to admit it.
"Good morning, my Queen! I assume you have done your research on sea faring?'' Reaver exclaimed with energy she hadn't seen since his masquerade ball, arms outstretched like wings to add to the drama of the journey about to be embarked.
"Yes, of course I have. But, oh my, its truly a shame that I still need to bring you along!'' she laughed putting a hand on her curved hip, and he smiled at her little joke with eyebrows raised in amusement.
''Who are the men behind you? You never spoke of …. additions.''
''Oh! I apologize. This is Oscar Fenney, one of the doctor's within the Fairfax Castle. These two men are guards who carried your chest of gold coin,'' Evelynn explained, touching each man's shoulder as she introduced them. ''And this here is my... love... Lewis March.''
''Love? You never told me of an engagement... Hmph.'' Reaver said, smile transforming into a frown. The tension in the air made everything awkward, and Sebastian nervously locked his arm into the Queen's. What is it Reaver is so dismayed about? Surely he didn't expect me to be single. Ah, it is because I am a woman he absolutely can't have. I hope he doesn't become childish about it! "'No matter; the ship is fully supplied now. Shall we board the Revival now?"
Evelynn smiled despite the eyes she felt impassioned onto her from Reaver, as he awaited her and her group to board before he himself did. Once on the deck, the sheer, massive size and the rolling of the ship beneath her feet astonished Evelynn.
"Come to the side, love. Look at the way the waves smash against the hull- its incredible! I'm so glad you brought me along this expedition,'' Lewis clapped, giving her a quick embrace and then observing the sea once more, his amber hair fluttering in the wind.
''I knew you'd enjoy it. Besides, we needed time together away from the courts and constant scenery.'' She took his hand in hers, ignoring the sounds of Reaver's voice as he barked orders from the wheel for sails to be opened.
''You know me better than I know myself, and just think that when we return, we will be wedded!... I love you, Evelynn,'' he swooned, taking her into his arms to kiss her passionately before all the crew. The men made 'ooooo' noises, basking their eyes upon the intimate couple and slowing their work. Shots fired in the air, and they turned to see an irritated Reaver with Oliver over-looking them as well. The men hastily returned to their personal jobs in fear of being shot, with Evelynn embarrassed as Reaver scowled at her in disapproval.
This journey is going to be a long one indeed, especially if Reaver is going to be so jealous..., she thought gingery to herself, turning away from Lewis to examine the Captain's quarters.