Screams…

Screams of innocents cried out amongst the chaos, screams that anyone with a kind soul would never forget. The kind that made you feel the victim's fear, as well as their pain. These were the screams that promised to never leave one's mind. They would always be there to haunt you, even in your dreams; you would never be able to escape them.

The most haunting of those screams were the ones that belong to the children whom cried over their fallen parents. Even worse yet, the screams belonged to mothers and fathers as they cradled their dead children in their trembling arms. The little ones bodies so badly burned from the fires that they didn't look human anymore. No longer would those children be able to laugh and play while running care free through the village, no longer be able to smile lovingly at their parents.

Near where Connor stood, a father held the body of his lifeless child in his arms. The father's hands were badly burned; yet because of his grief was so strong he ignored the pain of his own injuries. He had tried so desperately to save his young one from the fire, that he did not care what happened to his hands. Just as long as he could save his child, but no matter how hard he tried, his beloved little boy did not make it.

Men, women and children were lying amongst the burning debris as the flames continued to dance throughout the village. Long houses collapsed all around Connor as he tried to push his panic aside, he had to keep moving. He had to find his mother!

As much as Connor wanted to help his people, all he could think about was finding his mother. He continued to run as people cried out to him for his aid. Just then, a man came running out of one of the long houses with his body aflame. Connor watched in horror as the man waved his arms desperately in the air in a panic until he stumbled to the ground and did not move again.

"ISTA!" Connor cried out, using the word 'mother' in his native language.

She did not call out to him.

He cried her name again and still no reply.

'Wait!' Connor thought, coming to a stop. 'She always calls my name…This is where she calls out to me. Why has she not called my name?!' His amber eyes widened as realization dawned on him, "I am dreaming…" he whispered.

Yes, it was the same nightmare that haunted him nearly every night, the attack on his village that was ordered by the heartless and honor-less being known as Charles Lee. This was not real, merely a cruel memory of that fateful day. All Connor needed to do was will himself to wake and he could escape this horrid nightmare.

"Ratonhnhaké:ton!" Shouted a man's voice.

Connor turned around to see a man with long braids waving at him frantically. Instantly he recognized him, "Kanen'tó:kon?!"

"Ratonhnhaké:ton!" Kanen'tó:kon cried, "What are you doing? Do not just stand there, help me!"

'How…? No! This cannot be possible!' Connor stumbled back, completely caught off guard to see his friend as a grown man. He was no child and he was here, he never appeared like this in the nightmare before!

Feeling the panic begin to take over, Connor willed himself to look at his own hands. As he held them in front of his face, he gasped in alarm. They were not the hands of a child, but the hands of a man. He was not a child, not like he normally was in this recurring nightmare!

"Ratonhnhaké:ton!" Kanen'tó:kon pleaded, "Please! Help me! She is trapped under the burning logs! I cannot lift them by myself!" He took off running.

Immediately Connor followed after him, as the two ran through their village of chaos; they were forced to leap over bodies and debris. While following, Connor spotted the dead elders upon the ground, their clothing drench in blood. It appeared as though they were lined up and executed by a firing squad.

Just who had done this?!

Kanen'tó:kon slid to a stop when they reached the pile of burning logs and to Connor's horror, he could see that there was a child trapped underneath them. He soon realized it was Kanen'tó:kon's niece, the same little girl that had wanted to play with his bear claw necklace just the other day.

Instantly Connor rushed over to help, his hands grabbing onto the burning logs. Pain shot up through the palms of his hands as they were burned and he gritted his teeth, refusing to let the agony stop him from saving the girl. The smell of his own searing flesh filled his senses, causing him to become nauseated. How could this be happening?! His people were supposed to be safe!

The little girl's cries turned into fierce screams as the flames caught her hair, she was burning alive before him and he did not have the strength to lift the damn logs!

Kanen'tó:kon cried out as the rest of the longhouse before them suddenly collapsed, sending burning debris to land on the tiny girl. Connor cursed in panic and tried desperately to get to her, not caring if his hands were burned down to the bone. But despite his attempts, it was no use; her screams were now silent as the flames grew higher into the night.

Falling to his knees, Kanen'tó:kon screamed the girl's name, tears streamed down his ash covered face.

Connor raised his hands to his head as he looked in terrier around him. His village was nothing but flames and ash, smoke so thick that it was hard to breathe. Then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw her

"Jaden?" Connor whispered in disbelief under his breath.

There she stood near the entrance of his ruin village, unscathed from the flames. Her hair, like fire, blew freely behind her shoulders as she watched him with an empty expression.

His eyes narrowed as he called out to her, "Why do you just stand there?!" His voice demanding, "Come help us!"

She did not reply, merely just stood there, starring as if she was seeing right through him. Watching him with cold, dead, eyes.

Connor moved toward her, "How could you not warn me of this?! I could have saved them!" His voice cracked as a sob escaped his throat. The emotions he felt, fear, sadness, loss of all the innocents that suffered around him, the anger and betrayal he felt towards her just then, it was all too much and his body began to tremble. His once strong legs threatened to give out from under him at any moment.

Just as Connor was drawing closer, a burning log from part of the entrance fell between them. Thousands of embers erupted into the night and he was forced to shield himself with his arms. He peered through the flames and to his dismay; Jaden slowly turned her back on him and began to walk into the safety of the forest.

"Jaden!" Connor screamed, the rage he felt towards her was growing into pure hatred. How could she not warn him about the attack?! Let alone, just simply walk away without offering any help?!

He called out to her again, and still, she did not turn back.

Just then, something cold pressed hard against the back of his head. "Slowly turn." A deep voice ordered harshly.

Feeling his heart skip a beat, Connor did as he was instructed. Though as he turned to face the man before him, his eyes widened in shock.

Charles Lee smiled cruelly as the very flames around them reflected in his icy blue eyes. He pressed his pistol harder against Connor's temple and that devilish grin grew even wider.

Instantly Connor willed his body to move, wanting to knock the weapon from the bastard's hand, but before he could even have time to blink, Charles, pulled the trigger…

Connor felt his body jerk from the impact, he cried out in alarm as he fell backwards. The back of his head slammed against the floor as he was painfully jolted awake. With panic taking over, he quickly tried to scramble to his feet. Though because the palms of his hands were sweaty, he slipped and fell to the floor.

A floor! At least it felt like hardwood floors and not the grass in the village…

All he could see was pure darkness, and that did not help ease the panic. Closing his eyes, Connor willed himself to ease his anxiety, knowing very well that panic would not help the situation. After a moment, he opened his eyes once more and slowly they began to focus. Moonlight was shining through the windows a few feet away, and soon he could make out bookcases, the glass of the cabinets reflecting the light.

"I'm in…my study…" Connor whispered breathlessly, his voice shaken. He glanced around, now able to make out the other objects within the room. He could see his desk, and the doorway. "A nightmare…it was only a nightmare," he breathed, "…but it…it felt so real!"

Sitting up, he leaned his back against the sofa and covered his face. His body was damp with a cold sweat, the nightmare had been so vivid, even now his heart was still racing within his chest. Not only could he still hear the screams of his people, but he could also smell their burning flesh. Feeling as though he may vomit, Connor slowly rose to his feet and stumbled toward the window. He needed fresh air; he stuck his head out the open window and breathed in the summer night's breeze.

"Just breathe…" Connor ordered himself; he needed to calm the beating of his heart. To order his body to stop the trembling, he felt so light headed…

After several moments, he finally managed to will calmness to himself. Slowly, he pushed away from the window and glanced around the room. The screams, the searing flesh, the smoke, everything the terrifyingly vivid nightmare had brought with him when he awoken had finally faded, leaving him alone in the darkness.

It had been many years since he had a nightmare that caused him to react so strongly to it. The ones that haunted him were horrible, but nothing compared to how real this one had felt. What could have possibly triggered it?

Connor's hardened gaze traveled to the doorway, 'Jaden…' Of course she was the reason behind it! The way he felt she was withholding the truth about the fate of his people. He recalled how she calmly walked away from him in the dream, as if she did not care what happened to them.

Well, that was it. He was going to find out the truth right now!

Immediately he stormed out of the room and into the hall. Because it was so early and the sun had not yet risen; Connor figured she was still asleep. Yet he did not care, he wanted his questions answered now. Pushing aside the white sheet that she used a privacy screen, he made his way inside the room. To his right was the bed, and within it he could make out her slender form beneath the covers.

On the table beside him was a lit candle, picking it up, he approached the bed, the light casting her sleeping form in a soft glow. She was facing him, fast asleep with her hair disarrayed across the pillow. As he held out a hand to wake her, something on her cheek reflected the candle's light, causing him to hesitate.

It was a tear. She was crying in her sleep…

Connor frowned, wondering just what she was dreaming of that would cause those tears. 'Perhaps she dreams of her family…' he wondered. Should he wake her? Or should he just simply leave her be? Part of him wanted to wake her and demand answers he needed to know so desperately, yet…another part told him to leave her be and wait till the sun rose.

Connor watched uncomfortably as Jaden began to stir, for a moment he feared she was going to awaken. Instead, she rolled onto her back with eyes tightly closed and lips parted. Beads of sweat could be seen on her brow. 'It appears as though I am not the only one with unwelcome dreams tonight…' he thought.

Another tear fell down her cheek and he felt a strange urge to gently wipe it away. Though he did no such thing, instead he sat the candle back onto the nightstand and blew it out. For some reason, it felt wrong to wake her and he could not understand why. Perhaps it was because, if it were she to have found him crying in his sleep, he would feel embarrassed. Maybe even ashamed to be found in such a state, and so, he did not wish for her to feel the same way. For now, he would leave her be and wait until morning to question her. Silently, Connor crept back into the hall, leaving Jaden along in the darkness. Alone with her tears.

Having no interest in even attempting to sleep again for fearing the nightmare would return Connor remained awake for the rest of the night. He searched through the entries of his journal or letters from his enemies that the recruits managed to get their hands on. Yet even that did not last long, for his body was far too anxious. Not even the exercise of pushups could bring him ease.

When the sun finally rose, it was a welcomed sight, and he heard Jaden begin to move about in the other room, his rose to his feet. The wait was finally over, now that she was awake, he could demand the answers he'd been longing for. Coming to stand before her little homemade privacy screen, he called to her. "Jaden? Are you dressed?"

"Occupiedo!" She called back.

He arched a brow at the word she used. Clearing his throat he tried again, "Jaden, I need to speak with you…"

She sighed, "Not now Connor, I'm busy. Come back later."

His eyes narrowed as he began to grow impatient, "So you can sneak out of the manor and avoid my questions again? I think not!" Without bothering to ask for permission to enter, he pushed the sheet aside and stormed in.

Though perhaps it would have been wise to have asked for that permission…

Just when Connor was about to shout at her, he ended up stumbling to a stop. Before him, Jaden stood beside the dresser, wearing only a pair of tan trousers. With hair swept in front of her left shoulder, her back was exposed to him. Instantly his eyes fell to the bare skin. Her entire upper body glistened in the light, for she had been in the middle of washing herself. He noticed the wet cloth in her hand as she turned to gasp at him, though by doing this she accidentally knocked over the bowl of water, causing it to splash across her trousers before shattering into pieces upon the floor.

Instantly he felt heat on his face as he stood there with his mouth a gap. As much as Connor knew he should immediately turn and leave, his body wouldn't move. Jaden raised arms to cover her breasts and turned her back on him, which caused his gaze to fall on what appeared to be the strangest birthmark he had ever seen. It was between her shoulders, as he peered closer, he thought it looked like some kind of design. 'Is…is it a slave brand?' Had someone dared to-

Before his thoughts could go further, she threw the wet cloth at him. "What the shit, Connor?!" Jaden shrieked.

The wet cloth smacked against his chest and left a damp imprint before it fell to the floor, "I-I…!" Connor gaped; suddenly it was so hard to find the right words to say.

"Get out!" She screamed.

He backed away in a panic, "I-I am sorry!" he managed to gasp out. He stumbled toward the door frame and accidentally tripped over his own feet. Frantic to keep from falling, he grabbed onto the sheet and it ripped from the frame. He landed in a heap on the floor with the sheet covering his head, instantly Connor tried to scramble to his feet. While trying to pull the sheet off, he made a mad dash for the stairs.

Because of the panic and embarrassment, he ended up slipping and fell. His rear smacked against the top of the stairs and he winced in pain as it bumped against every, single, step while he slid all the way down. Nearing the bottom, Connor spread his arms out to brace himself against both the wall and the railing to try and slow himself down. When he finally came to a halt, the sheet slowly floated down after him and covered his head.

Achilles, whom had of course over heard the commotion, came around the corner to greet him. Raising his cane, he carefully lifted the sheet from Connor's head and placed it aside. Taking one look at the shocked expression on Connor's young and blushing face, the old man merely sighed and shook his head, then walked off without saying a single word.

"Noon is nearing, and she has yet to come down." Connor wondered out loud, he thought perhaps he may have embarrassed Jaden so much that she might hide in her room for the entire day.

"Well, you did walk in on a woman while she was bathing. How do you expect her to react?" Achilles asked without looking away from his meal. "She is most likely too embarrassed to come down."

"B-but, it was an accident!" Connor protested, his blush returning. "I did not know she was…was-"

Ignoring his words, Achilles stated calmly, "You do realize now that you have seen her in such an intimate state, you will have to take her for a wife."

"What?!" Connor gasped, the old man's words actually caused him to drop his fork.

Achilles raised his cup of tea to shield the grin he was trying to hide, "Honestly, I have never took you for a Peeping Tom. Well I suppose it is normal, you are becoming a man after all…"

Realizing his mentor was teasing, Connor grumbled under his breath and roughly grabbed a biscuit from the plate in front of him. "And I never took you for someone to make light of such."

"Of course not, I am nothing more than a grumpy old fool." Achilles replied sarcastically. Picking up a piece of bacon, he then held it out to the puppy that waited patiently by his side.

Connor arched a brow, "I also did not take you for someone to find company with adorable little animals." He was amazed that Achilles had already trained the little runt how to sit.

At first his words seemed to cause Achilles to hesitate, though just as Connor thought the old man was going to explain why he took the puppy in, he looked away, clearly avoiding eye contact. After a brief moment, he removed a letter from his pocket and held it out to him, "This came for you the other day. Apparently your aid is requested in Boston."

Taking a bite out of the biscuit, Connor reached over and took the letter. The information within it was sent from his recruits. They had received word that large shipments of supplies would be arriving for the next few weeks. These shipments included weapons, ammunition, medicine, and other such importance which were all to be delivered to the forts throughout the frontier.

Placing the letter in his pocket, Connor explained the situation. That stealing the supplies from their enemies would not only be useful to their allies, but would also be a great defeat as well to keep the forts low stocked and unprepared when it came time to liberate them later.

Connor then told Achilles that he would be taking his leave the following morning and would not be bringing Jaden with him. Because she was still unprepared to go along on such dangerous outings, the girl would only end up being harmed, or worse, killed. He could not be distracted by constantly worrying about her safety.

Achilles nodded in agreement. "Very well, I will find something useful for her to do around here while you are away. Though, try not to be gone for too long. You have yet to train her on how to properly protect herself, as well as unlock the second sight."

Connor frowned, the second sight that Achilles mentioned, was what the assassins of old called Eagle Vision. It was a rare dormant sixth sense. Those who managed to possess this truly unique ability could instinctively sense how people and objects related to them, which manifested as colored glows, much like an aura.

For Connor himself, he held the gift as long as he could remember; back when he was a small child. The ability came naturally, like breathing. It increased all of his scenes, which may be why his tracking skills were so good. If he was trying to follow a target in a large crowd, all he had to do was will the Eagle Vision to activate and he would find his target with ease. He could even follow the path they took by the mysterious golden mist trial they left behind. It was strange to possess such a gift, but intriguing as well. Both he and Achilles knew that Jaden had the power to possess it, for she was a daughter of Eve after all. However, Connor had no idea how he could teach her to be able to activate it. For he had never taught anyone before, let alone knew anyone else that had it.

"Do not just sit there with that confused expression on your face, boy." Achilles said, he pushed his seat back and stood. "If anyone can help her unlock the gift, it would be you."

Connor sighed, knowing there was no use in arguing with his mentor. "Very well. I will at least try."

"Good. Before you take your leave, I would appreciate it if you chopped some fresh wood for the hearth. You can leave the piles near the back door." With that, Achilles left the dining room with the puppy following behind, the two leaving Connor alone with his late breakfast.

It was sometime afternoon and still Jaden had not emerged from the bedroom. After what happened with Connor, she just couldn't find the courage to head down stairs to eat a heartily breakfast with him and Achilles. It would have felt way too awkward and she was still embarrassed with what happened. Even if it was by mistake, he had no right to just barge in like that. Just what had he been thinking?

The way Connor had reacted seeing her there half naked, he seemed to be just as embarrassed as she was, maybe even more. Though, how could that be? Surely it wasn't the first time he'd seen a naked woman. 'I'm probably being sexist by thinking this but... he is a guy after all, a good looking one at that. And well…they have to have it. Or at least that's how they are from where I'm from…' But still, surely she wasn't the first. Yet, why did he act so panicked?

When Jaden heard him fall down the stairs she'd been worried he ended up with a broken tail bone. She didn't mean to scare him senseless by her reaction; he just startled her was all. Sighing, Jaden flopped onto the bed and stared up at the ceiling. "Just suck it up and go find him." She ordered herself, "You both can just apologize and the awkwardness will pass."

Then rolling onto her side, she glanced over at the pillow, suddenly remembering how she had awoken with tears in her eyes. Just what Jaden had been dreaming to cause the tears, she could not remember. Ever since she ended up in this time remembering her dreams had become somewhat difficult, maybe it was due to all the stress and shock her body was still undergoing. As for this time, perhaps it was her family she'd been dreaming about, for she did miss them, with all her heart, god how she did missed them…

The dreams must have been about her parents, only they could bring such strong tears, because the pillow had been soaked with them. Even though, she was still hurt that they hadn't come forth with the truth about her being adopted. Then again, it was understandable. To hold such a deep secrete as that, it must have been hard for them. Especially for her mother, who waited so long to have a daughter of her very own. The woman's wish had finally come true, though just not in the way she may have wanted. It made Jaden wonder just what had always gone through the woman's mind each time she saw her. Was Irene constantly haunted by knowing that Jaden wasn't truly hers? That they didn't share the same blood, or did none of that matter because she just loved her so much?

"She loved you, that much is certain." Jaden whispered to herself, "And so did he." Feeling a lump at the back of her throat, she closed her eyes and willed the thoughts of her parents away. "There's no crying…" She muttered under her breath, "There's no crying in baseball!" Once again, she used a line from one of her favorite movies to keep from crying. Humor. How she loved using humor to keep her going. Somehow it just helped her remain sane, kept her from curling into a ball and crying a puddle.

'Alright Jaden, you've been up here long enough. Time to get going.' Groaning, she stood and adjusted her clothing. How wonderful it felt to finally be wearing clothing that was made just for her size. Because it was so warm out, she only wore a loose lightly tanned shirt that was laced at the top along with dark brown trousers. Again they weren't much to look at, but they fit and that's all that mattered to her.

Finished with tying her hair into a ponytail, she extended the stairs and glanced around. Light snoring could be heard coming from Achilles's bedroom, silently as possible, Jaden carefully snuck past his opened door, though as she did so, her gaze caught sight of the puppy resting comfortably beside Achilles's feet as he slept in the chair. The adorable sight brought a smile to her lips, she was so glad he took the little booger in. 'Wonder if he's decided on a name yet.' Jaden thought, she then headed for the backdoor which was already open.

Stepping out in the bright sunlight, she was greeted by the warm summer air. A few puffy white clouds floated lazily above her head as she glanced around. Thankfully the summer hadn't been unbearably hot. Unlike the humidity she'd been so use to back home in Missouri, this was pleasant. Here, it was just warm enough where a simple dip in the lake or a cool damp cloth would take care of it. Hopefully it would remain that way.

The sounds of wood being chopped nearby caught her attention, figuring it was the peeping Tom himself, she decided to investigate. Rounding the corner of the manor, Jaden spotted Connor. His back was facing her when he stopped to take a small break to wipe the sweat from his brow onto the sleeve of the off white shirt that he wore. Her gaze fell to the red sash that was tied around his dark gray trousers, swaying lightly to his movements. 'Hmm…guess he doesn't have plans to assassinate anyone today.' She thought sarcastically, seeing that he wasn't wearing his stylish murdering outfit.

Crossing both her arms and legs, Jaden leaned against the side of the Manor while watching Connor bring down the axe to split the wood in half. She narrowed her eyes in thought, wondering just how she could get him back for this morning. And oh, did she have her wicked little heart set on getting him back. For not only did he see her naked, but also caused her to spill that water all over her trousers before it shattered by her bare feet. Even though she hadn't been injured by the sharp pieces, there was still a lesson to be learned here. So yes, a payback was indeed in order.

Just then, a few of the horses at the stables began to whinny and her attention was drawn to them. One of the stable hands was just pouring fresh water into one of the troths. Seeing this caused a slow Grinch like grin to spread across Jaden's mischievous face. 'Bingo…' Pushing away from the wall, she made her way over to stables.

"Good afternoon, ma'am!" The man said with the tip of his hat as she neared him.

"Hello there." Jaden greeted, giving him an innocently sweet smile. "May I borrow your bucket please?"

Her question seemed to startle him, "Uh…of course!"

"Thank you ever so much." Jaden grinned; she felt his questioning gaze following her while she filled the bucket with the water then headed over to where Connor was still chopping the wood. Careful not to alert him, she slowly crept over. Connor sighed and sat down the axe to stretch his arms, then before he could notice her, Jaden heaved the bucket forward.

Connor yelped in alarm as the cool water splashed all over his back, completely drenching him. And if Jaden had translated the Mohawk word he used correctly, he may have actually cursed as well. Instantly he turned to gawk at her, his eyes wide in alarm. She flashed him a satisfied grin and sat the bucket down. Then dusting off her hands mockingly she said happily, "That...was for this morning." Without even giving the poor guy time to gather his thoughts to reply, she turned away and walked off.

As she headed toward the road that would lead her to Norris's mineshaft, she heard the stable hand shout, "My apologizes, Connor! I did not know she was going to do such a thing!"

"I have changed my mind." Connor grumbled, he had removed his soaked shirt and was now twisting it in his hands, trying to squeeze out the water. "I am leaving tonight!"

Achilles shook his head while he stood patiently by the backdoor. He did not speak a word, merely handed him a towel.

"You have nothing to say about this?" Connor questioned heatedly, while taking the towel. "Nothing to say about her actions? Not even her behavior? How she refuses to even tell me about-"

"Enough, Connor." Achilles said finally, "That temper of yours is getting the best of you."

Connor glared at the old men, how could he say that to him? His temper was under control, he was just tired of having to deal with Jaden. For over a week now he had to put all his plans on hold because of her. Yes, it was his fault he brought her here, and now with everything he had learned about Jaden, he wasn't all too pleased with the notion that he now had to deal with her even longer.

He just needed sometime away from her that was all. To clear his head and deal with the much needed duties that awaited him. Duties that did not involve her.

After taking a deep breath and exhaling it out slowly, Connor closed his eyes briefly before meeting his mentor's questioning gaze. "Achilles, I cannot be around her, pretending everything is fine when it is not." He brought the towel to his face a moment, trying to think of the right words to say next. Then lowering it to his neck, he continued, "Jaden is holding something from me. I can feel it. Even when she looks me in the eye and says she knows nothing of the fate of my people, I know she is lying. And that…I cannot simply let go."

Achilles sighed, then with a nod of agreement he said calmly, "I understand. Go then, do what needs to be done and not worry about Jaden. I will have a talk with her while you are away. Perhaps when you have returned, she will be ready to speak with you."

Placing the towel around his bare shoulders, Connor tilted his head at him, "And if she still with holds the truth?"

Seeming annoyed by the question, Achilles sighed, "Perhaps threaten to expose those belongings of hers that she so desperately wants destroyed."

'It may work.' Connor thought, remembering how persistent she was. If the girl continued on refusing to come forth with the truth, then he would just have to expose her deepest secrete. One way or another, he was going to learn what the future holds for his people.

Later that night, Jaden leaned back on her hands as she gazed up in wonder at the sky. Even in her dreams, she had never seen such a beautiful sight. The luminous moon illuminated the area as far as she could see. The stars twinkled brightly, like millions of tiny jewels, seeming happy that there wasn't a single cloud to hide their beauty. For tonight, the sky belonged to them.

Closing her eyes, Jaden allowed herself to get lost within the moment and took in the evening's enchanting sounds. All around her, Mother Nature played her soothing music. Crickets chirped happily while the frogs played their own songs down by the river. Owls hooted in the distance while wind picked up a little, she could hear it blow lightly through the trees and grass until it came to greet her, playfully blowing her hair gently.

Words could not describe just how wonderfully peaceful the moment was. Back home in her time, the city was always loud and constantly moving, much like Boston. But here, time seemed to move differently. It took its own time to stop and enjoy the calm, peaceful beauty the earth offered.

For nearly an hour, Jaden rested comfortably on the rock bluff that was located just out front of the Davenport Manor. Achilles had gone to bed right after super while Connor hadn't joined him. Wherever he was, she did not know. Perhaps he was still fuming after her little prank with the water bucket and had no intentions of seeing her for the rest of the day. She couldn't help but smirk at the thought. 'Whatever, I could care less to see him too.' Jaden thought grimly.

No, that was a lie, because she did care and it was all because of Juno. Opening her eyes, Jaden looked down at her hands as Juno's chilling warning entered her mind. Causing everything the wonderfully calming evening had helped to ease her anxiety to vanish within an instant. The peace was replaced by gut wrenching fear, fear that remained at the back of her mind at all times, refusing to let her be.

Leaning forward, Jaden covered her face in her hands, 'How am I going to do this?'

How indeed.

How was she going to keep Connor alive and safe when he had so many enemies? Not to mention the Revolutionary War that would begin in April the following year. Plus he was already in another war with the Templars. It would take a damn miracle for him to come out alive. It wasn't that she didn't think he couldn't handle himself, he'd proven that many times over. What had her so worried was if someone tried to snipe him from a safe distance, or what if when he was away at sea his ship was attacked and he ended up killed?

It was chilling thoughts like these that kept her so restless.

'Remember, it is crucial for the Guardian to survive. Even if you must give your own life so he may live.'

Opening her eyes, Jaden gazed up at the moon once more as Juno's words came back to hit her like a ton of bricks. Taking a deep breath, she then exhaled it out slowly, 'Yeah, I got it Juno. You don't have to constantly remind me.' She thought sarcastically. 'I know what I have to do.' And yes, when it came down to it, she would die to protect him. Even if Connor seemed to despise her, she would still give her life to save him. The entire fate of the planet depended on it after all.

Death didn't really frighten her at first, since Jaden believed that she would finally be able to reunite with her mother again. But of course that was before her faith was shattered by learning the truth of Juno's people, the ones that created humans in their image. While her parents were devoted Christians, Jaden on the other hand, always seemed to question the belief of God. Mostly because how could someone allow such horrible things happen to good people. Why did the good always die young? Why did God think that flooding the entire planet to kill some bad people off was such a bright idea? Sure he wanted to cleanse the planet from evil, but he ended many good and innocent lives just to do it. Not to mention all the animals that drowned too. Also, why did he make those poor people walk forty years in the desert to prove their loyalty to him? They just came from being slaves to a complete jackass.

Yet, despite all the stories the Bible held that she had issues with, it was the thought of a heaven that brought her comfort. To believe that someone was not only looking out for her, but for all the kind souls who walked the planet. It brought comfort in believing that once your mortal life was over; there was a peaceful place somewhere out there. A place where all your loved ones that passed on were just waiting to greet you on the other side, to take you into their loving arms again and know in your heart that you would never be separated from each other ever again.

Though thanks to Juno's existence, everything was different. She and her people were the gods now and Jaden doubted more than ever than that heaven could possibly exist. So now, if she did end up killed, where would her soul go? Would she ever see her mother's loving face again? Or would she just simply end up in a pitch black abyss?

'Argh, stop getting so worked up over these deep thoughts!' Jaden barked at herself, 'It's pointless! If you die, you die. You will be dead, you won't be around to care with whatever happens! All you can really do is just try to guide Connor. Warn him of what is to come, and try to be there when something goes wrong.' That was all she could really do, there was no point in getting so worked up over religious thoughts now. Juno's warning was enough fear to take in. 'Right, so. Pull up your big girl panties and suck it up!' Nodding at herself, she reached up to hold her father's ring around her neck, then of course realized again that Connor had taken it. Sighing, Jaden stood and turned around to head inside for the night.

"We must speak." Connor said sternly, he stood just behind her with his arms crossed.

"JESUS!" Jaden shrieked, he had startled her so that she ended up tripping over her own feet and fell on her butt. Growling, she grabbed onto the rock she'd been sitting on and pulled herself up into a sitting position.

Connor arched a brow at her, "Are…you well?"

She glared over the rock at him and snorted, "Like you care." Grumbling, Jaden pushed herself up and stood before him.

"I do." Connor protested calmly, "And I came to apologize for my actions earlier-"

She interrupted him, "How's your butt?"

"M-my what?" he asked, seeming to be taken back by such a question.

"Your butt. Your tooshie. How is it?" She crossed her arms, "I heard you land on every step when you fell. I was worried you may have been injured."

He shook his head slightly, "No, I was unhurt."

'He saw you naked…' Jaden's unwelcome thoughts reminded her, which of course made her feel suddenly shy around him. "Ah, well. Good to know." She said nervously, while walking around from behind the rock, "And I accept your apology. So…good talk. I'll see you in the morning then."

Just as she headed for the front door, he reached out and gently caught her arm. "Wait! I am not finished."

"Yeah, I figured as much." She sighed and turned to face him. "What's on your mind?"

He released her arm, "This is none of my business…yet, I feel I should know. In case someone is looking for you."

She arched a brow at him, "What are you talking about?"

Connor looked her in the eyes, "I saw the marking on your back…Has someone branded you?"

His question completely caught of her guard. "Huh?" She asked, furrowing her brows and giving a little shrug.

He tilted his head to the side and pointed to her, "Are you unaware of it? The marking that is between your shoulders…"

"Marking between my…oh!" Jaden's eyes went wide. He was talking about her tattoo! "That…uh…" She actually chuckled in relief, "No, no I haven't been branded, Connor. It's just a tattoo."

"Ah, I see…" The way he said that, almost sounded like he disapproved of the thought.

Jaden sighed, not really in the mood to discuss the story behind the tattoo. But to ease Connor's curiosity and whatever accusing thoughts that may have been going through his mind, she figured it would be better to explain. Turning around, she began to raise her shirt in the back to show him the design. just to prove she spoke the truth.

"No wait! It is not necessary for you to expose yourself to me!" Connor gasped in alarm, he held his hands up, gesturing for her to halt.

She rolled her eyes, "It's just my back Connor, not my breasts." A snort escaped her lips as she began to explain, "A few years ago…my mother died. And, in her memory I got a tattoo of two doves. One to symbolize my mother, the second is a baby dove to symbolize myself."

The design showed the mother dove flying away while the baby dove remained on the ground, unable to fly after its mother due to a broken wing. The injured wing stood for just how broken Jaden felt without her mother, but she did not explain that part to Connor. It felt too…well, too personal, too private, or perhaps she was just too afraid to try and speak the words because it would just bring tears. So instead she gave him a simpler explanation, "I'm left behind as she's flying off to heaven." She smiled sadly at the memory, then turning back around she lowered her shirt, "She always had a thing for doves so…at the time of my grieving I thought maybe getting a tattoo to be a part of me as I grew older was a good idea but…" Looking away, she muttered under her breath, "It was stupid…"

Just then, the front door to the Manor opened and out came the tiny puppy with his tail wagging as he headed straight over to them. Thankful for the distraction, Jaden knelt down to pet him, "Aw, well hello again you cute booger! Did you have to go potty? Huh? Did ya? Aws! Such a good puppy! Oh, yes you are! Yessie, yes you are!" she giggled as he rolled over onto his side so she could give his belly a good scratching.

"Do not praise him so soon." Achilles said sternly from the doorway, "He chewed my slippers."

"Good boy." Connor said with a grin as he knelt down to pet him.

"Hmph." Was all Achilles had to say.

Standing once more, Connor raised his gaze to Achilles, "Have you thought of a name for him yet?"

The old man nodded, "I have."

"And?" Both Connor and Jaden asked in union.

Achilles turned his gaze to the puppy as it rolled away from Jaden and bounded over to relieve himself on a nearby bush. "Scab. His name will be, Scab."

Jaden's jaw dropped while Connor shook his head, "Wha-? You can't name him that!"

"And why not?" Achilles asked calmly, "It is my dog, so I shall name him what I please."

"I would expect no less from you, old man." Connor stated.

Jaden turned to gawk at Connor in time to have caught the knowing smile upon his face. Narrowing her eyes, she said sarcastically. "Ah, I get it. It's an inside joke isn't it? Jeez…you guys are terrible."

"Come along, Scab." Achilles called over his shoulder as he began to head back inside. Instantly the puppy turned heel and bounded happily after him, yelping playfully.

"At least put a 'Y' at the end to make sound cuter!" Jaden called teasingly.

"Scab will do." Achilles replied.

With a sigh, Jaden shrugged her shoulders. "I can't believe he named him that."

Connor came to stand beside her. "You should be grateful that he took him in, not disappointed with the name he has chosen."

Jaden rolled her eyes, "Oh, hush! I am grateful," Placing her hands upon her hips, she turned to look at him, "I just can't help but think it's just a mean name is all. You're supposed to give the pet a loving name, because they become a part of the family. How is Scab a loving name?"

"Perhaps it is the meaning behind the name he is fond of." Connor replied, his eyes meeting hers.

She arched brow at him, "Ah, right…inside joke. Got it." She raised her arms over her head and stretch, while yawning she added, "Maybe one day you'll tell me about it."

"Maybe." Was all he said.

Smiling slightly, Jaden shook her head, "I'll hold you to that. Anyway, it's late. I'm going to head in."

Just as she began to walk away, he called out to her. "Jaden, wait."

She turned to glance at him from over her shoulder, "Yes?"

"The tattoo…" Connor started, then straightening his form he continued, "I…I find it very respectful. I believe your mother would be honored by it."

His compliment left her lost for words. She had not expected something so kind to come from him. Even when she still felt the decision to get something so permanent was foolish, he found it quite the opposite. Turning to fully face him, she tilted her head slightly while she furred her brows at him, "Thank you…Connor, that's…very sweet of you to say."

Bringing his hands together, he then nodded in reply. "You are welcome."

Unable to resist, she added playfully, "Just for that, I'll wake up early to treat you to a fine breakfast and don't worry, I'm actually pretty good at cooking."

A strange look crossed his face, one that she could not decide what it meant. "That is very kind of you to offer, Jaden. Though it is not necessary-"

Waving him off, she said, "I want too. Besides, we just had our first bonding moment. We should celebrate." Then heading for the door once more, she added, "See you in the morning."

Connor did not reply.

July 1774

One Month Later.

Heavy rain drops landed on top of Connor's hood as he peered through the thick trees. Thunder echoed within the distance, alerting him that the storm was indeed coming. Dark rain clouds hovered overhead, trying to block as much sunlight as possible. As if the forest wasn't dark enough, now it was becoming shrouded in shadows.

"How do you want to handle this, Connor?" Stephane Chapeau asked while leaning his back against a tree.

Connor narrowed his eyes as he gazed down the hill; below them was the path that the enemy's convoy would soon be taking to reach Fort St-Mathieu, which was a still good distance away. It was the last convoy that they were intercepting, having already stopped the first two weeks apart from one another as they tried to reach the other forts, Duquesne and Monmouth. Luckily, none of Connor's recruits were injured during the raiding, and that was a record he hoped to continue.

They were careful to keep out of sight as they rode ahead a little ways of the convoy. Connor had counted two wagons and fifteen guards; all dressed in disguise as regular civilians. Five more extra men compared to the last two convoys they raided. Apparently their enemies finally took the hint that someone was taking their much needed supplies.

With fifteen guards and four of them, this shouldn't be too difficult, not when they had Clipper Wilkinson's skillful aim. Connor explained the strategy, while he attacked up front, Clipper would snipe the guards while both Stephane and Duncan Little reloaded for him. The fight would be over within a matter of minutes.

"Here they come." Said Duncan in his thick Irish accent, he then gestured to Connor, "We're ready when you are lad."

Connor nodded in reply, while never taking his eyes off of their enemies. To his left, Clipper was more than ready to open fire. "I will take the first shot." Connor instructed, "Then open fire."

"Understood." Clipper replied calmly.

Staying low, Connor silently crept from their hiding spot and began to extend the hill. As he drew nearer to the road, he removed the pistol from its holster. The guards walked with their riffles resting against their shoulders, their eyes ever watchful. This time, these men seemed far more prepared for an ambush. One man rode a horse ahead of the others, and it was he that would the first to die.

Now part of Connor could not help but feel that it was wrong to attack these men, because they were only taking orders. They were sent by their King to another land to do his bidding. They had family's back home, wives, children, all waiting and hoping for them to return safely. To end their lives would cost great sorrow for their loved ones, Connor knew this all too well and it made him feel guilty for what he was about to do.

But this was war.

Sometimes one must do the most horrible things imaginable to save the lives of others. Yes these men were only taking orders, but they were on the wrong side. If they did not stop them now, the Forts would become well stocked and trying to liberate them later would be more difficult. It had to be done…

With his back pressed against a tree, Connor slowly leaned around it, then carefully took aim at his first target and opened fire. His pistol came to life as smoke and sparks erupted in the air while the bullet struck the rider right in the head. The man's body went limp and fell to the ground; the horse took off in panic.

Clipper didn't even hesitant; his bullet struck a man that stood gaping at the fallen rider.

'Two.' Connor began to count in his mind while he took aim at the man driving the first wagon. To keep him from taking off with the wagon he opened fire and his bullet caught the man in the chest and he slumped forward. 'Three.'

"Fall to the left! To the left!" Shouted one of the guards, he had caught sight of the smoke from Clipper's musket. "About face!" Immediately the men grouped together, raising their muskets to where the others were located. "Make ready! Take ai-" Before the man could finish, his throat exploded with blood and he fell to his knees.

"Open fire!" Shouted another, half of the group's muskets came alive. "Reload!" While those that shot first reloaded, the others opened fire, their bullets striking the trees and ground, all failing to hit their true targets. The sounds of gunfire mixed with the thunder as sky above released the heavy rain. Bringing down sheets of thick raindrops to drench both allies and enemies a like, A moment later, three more men had fallen to Clipper's aim, making the dead count of seven.

Placing his pistol back in its holster, Connor removed his tomahawk and knife then sprinted through the brush towards the guards that were busy reloading. Leaping over a small log, he then dashed for a man that caught sight of him and had removed a pistol. Though before he could fire, Connor brought down his tomahawk across the man's arm, causing him to fire his bullet into the ground. Then bringing up his knife, Connor stabbed him in the throat and heaved him against another guard. While that guard hesitated with his fallen comrade in his arms, another man to Connor's right, swung his musket forward and he side stepped, then grabbing it, Connor yanked it towards the man whom just released the dead guard from his arms just in time as the musket went off into the man's stomach.

Bringing his tomahawk around, Connor sank it deep into the guard who's musket had went off. Another guard in front of him was struck by Clipper's bullet and he feel to the ground. Just then someone slammed their musket hard across Connor's back, causing him to stumble forward. Grunting in pain, he managed to hold his balance and turned to face his attacker. The guard before him caused Connor to pause his attack; the young man clearly looked a few years younger than himself. The guard's eyes was wide with fear as he stepped back. Narrowing his eyes, Connor made his move.

To keep Clipper from shooting him, Connor slammed his fist hard into the boy's face, knocking him out cold. Hearing movement behind him, he spun around in time to see Stephane bring his beloved butcher knife across the throat of another guard. The dead count was now eleven, except the boy Connor had knocked out.

"What are you doing?!" Connor demanded, annoyed that Stephane had left his post.

As the dead guard fell away, Stephane turned to him and held his arms out, "What? I was bored."

Connor glanced around them, trying to find the remaining four guards. Two were kneeling to their right. Their hands above their heads, "We surrender!" One called out, his weapons were upon the ground beside him. "Please, do not kill us!"

Gun fire sounded twice, followed by cries of pain, instantly both Connor and Stephane casted their gaze to the hill. The seconds that ticked by felt more like hours before the panicked voice of Duncan called out, "Connor! Clipper has been hit! Come quick!"

Turning to Stephane, Connor pointed to the two guards on their knees, "Watch them!" He ordered, before making a mad dash for the hill. Once at the top, he leaped over the log both Clipper and Duncan had used for a shield. The remaining two guards that Connor had been looking for lay dead, while Duncan knelt beside Clipper, who's eyes were closed and his chest was covered in blood.

...

(2/1/2014 - Due to constant headaches and dizziness from Eye Strain plus computer issues, Chapter 13 has been delayed. Truly sorry to be keeping all of you waiting. I hate to rush the chapter and have it be half assed, you guys deserve better than that. Please bare with me and I'll do my best to get it out to you all as soon as possible!)