Adrianna slouched in a very unlady like manner boredom written plainly on her exotic features. For the past three hours absolutely nothing had happened except for Reaver mumbling and fidgeting as he slept all the while clutching the still Sparrow's hand. Adrianna sighed righting herself to get into a more comfortable position. Why did the old man not have something more comfortable in his room? She thought irritably to herself.

A sudden pop made her jump and she turned sharply to look at the bed. Reaver's jaw's were clenched, but there was nothing really out of the ordinary. Then she noticed that the candle nearest to him had gone out sitting upon its pedestal as it smoked sadly. She made to move then she froze before easing herself back into the chair.

That's right, I can't relight them, she thought to herself as she nervously clutched her knees with her hands folded across them. But why could she not? What sort of purpose had they?... if they had a purpose that is. She sighed again. She would never understand Mage's and their magic.

Her eyes trailed to Lorna who sat straight backed, sweat gently trickling over her pale skin, the same thrum of noise vibrated in her throat. That same noise had at first made Adrianna's skull vibrate and her teeth chatter, but as she got used to it, it made her mind feel as if it were stuffed with fluffy cotton. It was a bizarre feeling but it was bearable. She looked to Oota who looked as if he had fallen asleep and if it were not for the discordant notes that came from him she would of thought he was. She smiled a little and looked to Garth. She watched him for a moment his will lines glowing gently whilst his silvery hair and beard were illuminated by the light of the flickering candles. She thought it was strange for someone to have traits seen in an elder and yet he did not really look that old. Her thoughts wondered and she began to question how old the mage was.

Another pop made her jump again, breaking her out of her reverie, as another candle went out. A annoyed expression crossed Oota's face but it soon relaxed beginning a long stream of incantations that made Adrianna shudder at the very sound. It was no language that she had ever heard and something about it felt chilling, frightening. Her restlessness soon abated in the knowing that she really could not do anything and the useless feeling made a lump rise to her throat.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Reaver stopped in a junction with a sense of disorientation settling heavily over him. He panted silently his breath causing wisps of steam to rise from his mouth in puffs. He waved it away irritably as he scowled at his surroundings almost accusingly. He had been running after this mutt for a long time now and they had passed many doors that looked wooden and brittle, but when he had gone to open one that dog would start tugging on his trouser leg. It annoyed the pirate to no end. How was he supposed to save this woman if he could not even search for her. He eyed the canine that sat on its haunches regarding him with those infuriatingly calm brown eyes of its.

On a silent command Reaver began to follow the dog as it turned to trot down the left corridor. Reaver had his doubts that the dog knew where it was going, but then this was her mutt and if anyone would know that woman's mind it would be him. He began to feel a bit jealous knowing the dog possibly knew her better than he may ever do. He ignored the feeling as he always did when he felt something he did not want to. He had grown accustomed and adept at emotion dodging as he called it. It gave him something to do in those lonely hours he found himself on his own, which he admitted was not very often.

As he ambled down the corridor he noticed a strange dim light up ahead. He looked down at the dog who peered at him with its tongue hanging out the side of its muzzle with a happy dog like grin. Reaver rolled his eyes, but he could not fight the sudden feeling of excitement and anticipation as he neared the light. When he stepped into the room he felt a little let down, but his excitement remained as his green eyes scanned the room.

It was medium sized, neat and rather clean despite the tree's in each of the four corners. Their dead branches reached towards the dark sky above and yet the floor was devoid of any leaves that may of carpeted it. On one wall was a simple stone fire place and above its mantle was a portrait of a young girl he had never seen before. She had the same eyes as Sparrow, but her hair was a totally different colour, perhaps more red than brown, and her clothes indicated she may of been a pauper.

There's no way that's Sparrow... is it? He thought to himself as he reached the cold, silent hearth and touched the mantle with a hesitant hand. He turned to look down at an armchair whose ornate nature contradicted the simplicity of the rest of the room. He wondered if this was some form of reflection of her mind. He chuckled at the thought and he noticed beside the chair was a stool with a thick volume a top of it. Its black binding glistened in the dim light and something about it made him want to pick it up. Well he was not the type to ignore his impulses, so he reached down and lifted it. He rested it on the palm of his hand and began to flick through it expecting maybe a diary like entries, but there was nothing. The pages were blank causing a frown to appear upon his face as he flicked through then put the volume back. He turned slightly to regard the room speculatively and that was when he noticed the doors around the room. Though the room was not very large there was a door on either side of the openings that opened up to corridors leading off elsewhere. That made four doors as Reaver had entered from from side of the room. On the wall opposite the fire place there was another four doors. Reaver frowned and turned noticing two doors on either side of the fire place. He frowned again wondering why he had not noticed them before hand or did they only just appear?

Reaver looked down at the dog who sat watching him with his tail wagging looking almost expectantly at him. Reaver rolled his eyes and approached one of the doors. He looked at it for a moment noting an engraving in the wood. As he ran his finger tips over it the engraving came alight with a strange glow revealing lettering. His eyes widened as he read it a grin appearing on his face, eyes twinkling mischievously.

My First, he chuckled soundlessly and reached for the door handle. He looked down at the dog the grin never leaving his handsome features. I hope this is what I think it is, he thought as he twisted the handle and stepped trough into a shadowy room the dog nipping passed him. The door closed behind him with a snap and as he waited the shadow lifted as if it were a blanket being removed to reveal the scene. What Reaver saw made him exclaim in shock and he pressed himself against the wall with a look of horror that had instantaneously replaced the grin.

Sparrow was lain on a double bed surrounded by people Reaver refused to look at as he realised what the words meant. It was not her first 'time' but her first child. This realisation was hit home when Sparrow screamed followed by furious huffing and puffing. Someone was shouting encouragements to her, which she seemed to be ignoring as she shouted rather colourful profanities back at them.

He watched mesmerized and yet utterly terrified of what he was seeing as Sparrow slumped to the bed exhausted by her efforts and one of the figures handed her a small bundle. It was then that Reaver saw the tender expression as she held the baby to her chest. A strange emotion washed over Reaver and he quickly concluded he had over stayed his welcome, so he turned leaving through the door he had come through.

When had closed the door behind him he leaned against it with a sigh of relief. He had never, in the two hundred or so years of life, witnessed a woman giving birth and it left him feeling fairly nauseated. He looked down at the dog who he swore was laughing at him and he stared at it accusingly. You knew didn't you, he mouthed before stalking over to another door.

He looked at it noting similar etchings in the door. It suddenly burst alight and his eyes read it as he grasped the door handle. It said 'Rose' and he sighed as he pushed the door open preparing himself for another unexpected surprise.

As he stepped through he shuddered. The air was bitterly cold and he hurried to rub his arms to ward it away. He looked around at the stone built houses as he walked down the snow strewn alley before coming to place that looked up at a castle. Reaver sought through his own memories trying to figure where in relation to Sparrow could this be. He surmised it to be Castle Fairfax.

He looked up as a bird flew over head and landed on the edge of a roof. He watched with a raised eyebrow as it defecated and his eyes followed it down before it landed with a splat on a young girls head. His hand grasped his mouth as he forced a laugh from leaving him and reminded himself why he was there. A shudder rose up his spine and he turned to look over his shoulder at the dark alley behind him. He shrugged and looked at the two young girls who stood huddled by a barrel where a fire blazed cheerily.

"Err what was that," one of the girls said. Reaver drew closer as curiosity overcame him. The taller child seemed familiar somehow and the portrait immediately came to mind. Rose, he thought as he stood by to watch his eyes falling onto the smaller girl that wiped furiously at her hair. He chuckled, a pair of very familiar blue eyes stared at the other girl in annoyance.

"We-ll, I hear that's lucky, like finding a four leaf clover though I think I prefer the clover," Reaver chuckled again at the thought, "Aww look little Sparra'..."

That confirmed it. The small girl was Sparrow as a child, he thought excitedly, which meant the older girl was Rose. As he listened idly to them talk about the castle and Lucien Reaver smiled in a forlorn fashion. He could tell that Rose may of grown to become an exceedingly attractive woman. All the signs were there and she may even of surpassed Sparrow on that score. He sighed, she may have had a fire within her, but the girl lacked something Sparrow had though he could not think what it was. He then glanced down at Sparrow with a sudden grin. As a child she looked so scrawny and tom-boyish certainly something to remember for future reference. He was distracted by a cheer of a crowd he turned slightly to look behind him. The girls noticed too and went to investigate. Curious, Reaver followed, but he soon stopped when a greasy and nasty looking man stepped out of the shadows to confront the girls.

" 'Allo there young rose, You look hungry, have you reconsidered my offa'?" the grimy man asked looking down at her with crooked grin exposing yellowed and rotten teeth. Rose visibly shuddered stepping backwards from him.

"We will never be that hungry, the answer is no!" the girl replied firmly with a hint of disgust.

"You'll be back and I will be waiting for ya'," the man said with a nasty sneer before turning to walk off in a huff. Something about that small encounter unsettled Reaver as he followed them down under the archway before coming to a stop near a caravan that undoubtedly attracted the attention of a huge crowd. Deciding to ignore this he went to poke around a bit, but found nothing of interest in this memory, and so returned to where Rose and Sparrow stood. A faint chill made him shudder and he looked over his shoulder. A shadow in the corner of the courtyard rippled and he watched with growing horror as tendrils of what looked like greasy black smoke reached out causing everything it touched to disappear. Alarm coursed through him as he looked at the two girls now conversing with a hooded figure that was very familiar. Theresa! He knew it, she had been here since the beginning. A faint hum made him break eye contact with them and he stared at the cloud that slowly consumed. He watched as all the people, blind to it, disappeared with a shimmer. He could no longer ignore the danger he must have been in so he turned running back down the alley way, but when he found himself in the place he had just been he shouted in anger and fear. The door had disappeared which meant he was trapped. Thinking fast he rushed back to where the girls had been only to find they were gone. Panic stricken he ran in the opposite direction of the on coming cloud. He skidded round a corner to find a small group of children playing with two familiar figures hovering over something. He let out a sigh of relief when he realised it was the dog, but this one did not have the lustrous golden coat of its future self, but instead was a dusty brown looking more like a mongrel. The two girls left it where it sat whining piteously and when they had disappeared completely it turned its head to look at Reaver. It jumped to its feet and trotted over its pink hanging limply from its mouth as it greeted the pirate happily.

Reaver sighed and looked behind him thoughtfully. He then looked down the alley in shock as he looked down into a dark dense shadow that covered the alley from floor to sky like a wall relentlessly pursuing him. He scowled angrily at it then turned back to the dog.

"Alright Mutt," he growled, "I want out and I want out Now! Preferably before that thing gets me!"

The dog tilted its head and looked behind him barking at it before turning around to run off down yet another alley. Reaver sighed in frustration as he charged after the dog. When the dog stopped it turned its head to look at Reaver and barked jumping at a door. Reaver looked at it speculatively then turned to look at the black wall he had left far behind him. It was consuming the memory with agonising slowness as if whatever it was was actually enjoying it. Reaver shuddered and burst through the door a renewed sense of urgency sending him sprinting across the room, and jumping through another on the opposite side of the room where the four doors were.

He stopped short as the door snapped behind him. The room he stood in was dark with only the light of the moon filtering through the small window to illuminate a dresser. A giggle made Reaver smirk. He neared what he assumed was the bed as two figures where lain upon it fumbling under some covers. Reaver could not help but laugh at the absurdity of it all as he realised this must be the actual first time he had wanted to see in the first place. The activity before the activity he had witnessed previous the thought of which still sent ripples of horror and disgust through him.

He watched for a moment his head tilting this way and that as if examining or analysing something of fair importance a light frown creasing his handsome face. He shook his head in sad disappointment. Something nudged his leg and he looked down at the dog who peered up at him with large brown eyes and he sighed.

"Was this her first time!?" he asked in an incredulous tone jerking his thumb at the bed that creaked and shuddered under the force of their 'activity'. He shook his head again a disgusted look on his face. "It was her first time! He could of handled it a bit more delicately and he has little imagination in seduction front, pfft, you don't rush things like this. You ruin the experience if force yourself upon a woman moments upon disrobing her."

He sighed in frustration as he looked down upon the bed his face cracking into a wide grin before looking back down at the dog pointing at the bed.

"Would you look at that, she has the cutest mole just under her nipple," he giggled pointing at the said little spot. The dog growled and Reaver got the point reaching for the door but when he tried to turn the handle to open it, it was stuck fast and refused to open. He rattled and jerked the handle as hard as he could, but it refused to relent. He sighed once again in frustration turning back to the dog. He wondered the room inspecting the space ignoring what was going on in the room. Apart from the window there was no other exit or entrance.

Maybe the space is limited by the memory, he thought as he looked up to the window with a thoughtful frown, but if that strange cloud were to show up I would be in deep... deep trouble.

As he had guessed earlier Sparrow's fun came to an abrupt end. Everything was quiet for a moment and Reaver turned just as Sparrow sat up swinging her legs so that they dangled off the side of the bed. Most of her body was covered by the blanket that she clutched to her naked frame. Reaver took a step or two nearer as she looked down at the sleeping man beside her. Her dark hair was slightly damp from sweat and it clung to her skin. Reaver found the sight very alluring and he unconsciously licked his lips.

She sighed and looked at the dog that rested his head on her bare knee as she patted his head.

"Not quite what I was expecting," she admitted glumly as she scratched behind the animals ears.

Reaver decided he had enough and stalked from the room muttering darkly to himself at the injustice of it all. When he returned to the room he counted the rooms he had been in and carefully walked over to the next door his eyes scanning the room wearily. From under the door where he had seen her sister, Rose, small black tentacles snaked from underneath groping blindly. He fought the sudden urge to go stamp on them, but he did not know what kind of effect that would of had. For all he knew he might disappear as well and he was not having that whether it be for Sparrow's sake or anyone else.

He looked at the door he was about to go through and as before letters were emblazoned across it sparkling from within notches of the wood. This one said 'My Unfaithful Secret'. This definitely had him intrigued as he slowly opened the door.

He found himself standing within a very familiar street and he grinned when he looked up seeing his own mansion, but when he saw Sparrow she was walking away from it leading him down towards the docks. Fascinated he followed much like the dog at her heels. They made their way round past the Stylist's shop when she suddenly stopped. Just on the corner opposite stood a familiar face. One of Bloodstone's many prostitutes and this one was male, whom Reaver knew quite well being one of his regulars and all. He watched with amusement as the prostitute smirked at her from across the street and approached coyly eyeing her with undisguised lust.

"Come back for another round, luv?" he asked with a chuckle. Reaver's eyes widened as his mind made a quick turn on itself, and realisation came over him. She was dissatisfied with her husband and so went to one of Bloodstone's prostitutes. His blood began boil as he realised he had been missing out on an opportunity to show this woman what making love was really like. He cursed his reservations he had at this time when she had first come to see him about the whole Lucien business.

"I... I dunno," she said looking away with a hurt expression as if she was faced with an impossible dilemma.

The male prostitute chuckled. "Indecisive huh, not like last time," he said drawing dangerously close and Reaver was surprise she had let him, "I will let you shout 'his' name again."

'His'? Reaver thought questioningly regarding the pair with narrowed eyes. He could not mean... maybe he does, were the thoughts roaming through the pirates mind as he continued to watch.

Sparrow said nothing as she looked elsewhere refusing to even look at the man the hint of shame pinching her features. The prostitute rolled his eyes and sighed running a hand through his dark well kept hair.

"Ya know, why don't you just go to him," he suggested helpfully, "I can guarantee he is a lot better than me..." His eyes grew whistful for a moment, "... cheaper too." He suddenly chuckled moving off when Sparrow fixed him with the infamous death glare.

"Absolutely out of the question!" she stated firmly as he backed off a little with fear showing on his face.

"Why not?"

"I cannot let my personal feelings get in the way of what I have to do," she said matter-of-factly, "besides that … 'man' does not need someone like me, besides I am married with two children." Her expression became pained her voice hinting that she may of regretted that decision.

The prostitute waited expectantly his eyebrow rose. "Well?" he eventually said, "you coming up or not?"

Sparrow regarded him thoughtfully and Reaver waited with bated breath for her answer. None came as she smiled at the prostitute, a small deadly smile that made his skin creep. The prostitute grinned as he wagged a beckoning finger and she followed him into the house behind him. Reaver stood there in mute shock. He never even knew this was going on despite him having people watching her every move whilst within his 'Coastal Paradise'. Why did he not know about this. As he stood there fuming his mind made a new realisation and he looked up at the house. He did not know how long he stood there revelling in the knowing that she had possibly liked him before the incident in the Spire, but something about that irked him. Not only had he been missing out on a good thing, but knowing what he had done to cause her to loath him with such hate made him feel surprisingly awful.

A warning bark broke him out of his reverie and he looked up at the sky. He cursed colourfully under his breath as the black cloud began to stain the sky much like a drop of ink in water as it consumed the blue space. He looked up at the house with dark glance before following the dog to a door he had not previously noticed and he swore he could hear his name being called as he stepped through the portal.

This was getting ridiculous all he was doing was running around viewing random memories. He glared at the four walls about him clenching his fists tightly the anger rising leaving a bitter taste in his mouth.

WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO! he scream at the silent stone about him even though he knew that no sound escaped him. He glared about his surroundings before giving the armchair a hefty kick sending it crashing into the wall where it landed with a thud. He was about to kick the side table when he saw the book. He picked it up to look at its blank cover. He growled and was about to toss it aside when something caught his eye. He turned the book to look at the spine and along it in glistening silver writing was 'Sparrow: Memoirs of a Warrior Mother That Never Learned To Fly'.

Something in his brain clicked as he looked at the walls. Just by the hearth the dog watched him impassively as Reaver gazed thoughtfully at the doors. Oota said I would see her memories, he thought as he walked to one of the doors and touched it gingerly, but he did not mention anything regarding a place such as this. Hmm, so this means that these must be her most treasured memories... he pointed to the first door then turned to look at the 'Unfaithful' door, and her deepest secrets. He smiled despite himself and he opened the book one last time hoping to find something, anything that might remain pouring through with desperation in each quick flick as he turned the pages one by one. He grinned when he found one page of writing, which was scribbled in a script that was quavering almost as if the writer was not confident of what they were writing. He scanned the page noting it said something about meeting a man named Bob who was always talking about his wife.

'Bob was talking about his wife again. I know if I thought about it I could remember what her name is, but to be honest I can't right now. This dull thrum in my ears is annoying the hell out of me and I am finding it hard to think. That is why I am taking this opportunity to etch this into my mind.

You see as Bob spoke so warmly of his wife and he said remembering her eased the pain he faced living in this god forsaken place. It made me realise something and so I came up with this as a way of remembering that no matter where I am, or what happens in my life, the memories of my husband, children and friends will help me get through the most debilitating of circumstances. And so I have written this as a way of helping me accomplish that.

In this world you tried

not leaving me alone behind.

There's no other way.

I prayed to the gods let him stay.

The memories ease the pain inside,

now I know why.

All of my memories keep you near.

In silent moments imagine you here.

All of my memories keep you near.

Your silent whispers, silent tears.

Made me promise I'd try

to find my way back in this life.

I hope there is a way

to give me a sign you're okay.

Reminds me again it's worth it all

so I can go on.

Together in all these memories

I see your smile.

All the memories I hold dear.

Darling, you know I love you

till the end of time.

All of my memories

Well some of the notation needs a bit of work and I think the wording is off a little and does not match the melody quite right, but I will have to think about that another time, another guard is coming. To tell me to go see the Commandant most likely...'

Reaver snapped the book shut and laid it back on the stool where it originally was and retrieved the chair he had kicked to put it into its rightful place. Gwayne watched him worriedly whether he was whining or not Reaver could not tell not that he was listening to him as he gripped the chair tightly in his hands. He looked at the door that recently escaped from leading into Bloodstone before turning his gaze to the other doors once more, a certain longing in his gaze like he was wishing he could go and discover what other secrets this fascinating woman was hiding, but something stayed his hand. He sighed knowing he would have to wait for her reveal what other secrets she kept hidden and he so deplored waiting, but there was nothing else he could do. He looked down at the dog whose tail wagged slowly as he watched the pirate tilting his head curiously.

Ok you mutt, Reaver said kneeling down, you know where she is don't you! You led me here for a reason, which means you know don't you!

The dog lowered its head looking a little shamed faced before looking up at a door then back to Reaver. Reaver took this as meaning that this was the door but as he stood he realised that the doors were slowly disappearing, fading from view. A renewed sense of panic flared and he followed the dog to the said door with quickened steps. As he turned to regard the room one last time he made a disgusted face seeing the tendrils appear from under the remaining doors and he angrily wrenched the door open stepping through with renewed determination.

He stopped to calmly take in his new surroundings and a small smile appeared. He was in the entrance hall of his mansion and the familiar stair case and highly polished wood panelling caused a nostalgic feeling to creep in. It had been a long time since he had seen these walls, these stairs that he had almost forgotten what a pleasure it was to be standing in his own hall of luxury.

A peal of laughter caught his attention and he followed it through the door leading to his study. A very familiar sight met his eyes as he watched himself watch the girl, that was doubled over with laughter, with a hint of of disdain and surprise, the fire blazing merrily behind him.

The dog trotted past him and sat on its haunches looking at something he could not yet see. He stepped into the study and turned, his eyes widening, as he saw Sparrow standing there staring at him in amazement and uncertainty. Her expression quickly changed and her finger raised to point at him.

"Who the hell are you!?" she demanded angrily looking from him to the other him. His jaw dropped slightly as he had not anticipated this reaction and it irked him. A muscle about his eye twitched as he neared her, but she refused to back away crossing her arms defiantly.

"What do you mean, who the hell are you?" he asked in an incredulous tone, "don't you remember."

Her bottom lip stuck in a stubborn pout. "No! I don't, but why can you see me... if your him then what … hang on..." she looked at the other Reaver then at the Reaver that stood in front of her almost accusingly.

Reaver sighed and rolled his eyes in exasperation. It was not quite the warm, friendly reunion he had hoped for but as he rubbed his chin in thought he realised that, that black cloud was eating her memories so she would naturally not remember. He cursed colourfully making Sparrow look at him strangely.

"Ok, if your him then... who am I? I'm her, must be, but... I … " Sparrow suddenly clutched her head a whimper of pain escaping her lips. Reaver immediately went to help her, but she pushed him a way with a fearful exclamation.

"Yes I am him and your name is Sparrow!" he told the woman grabbing her gently by the arm to force her to look him in the eye, "and I am here to help you."

"Why?" she questioned her face pale as pain coursed through her arm and through her skull.

"Because..." the words suddenly got stuck in his throat as he tried to force himself to say something. He stared down at her as his mouth gaped like a distressed fish before Gwayne barked in warning and the pair turned their heads towards the mansions entrance. Sparrow's eyes widened as through the door was a swirling wall of dense cloud. Reaver swore again and looked about frantically thinking of a way to escape but other than the door there was no way to escape, unless...

His eyes went to the book case and wondered if it would work. However, it may not like in one of Sparrow's memories. He turned to Sparrow who was staring at the black cloud with utter fear. It was then he noticed thin veins of black staining her skin. He reached out and touched her shoulder causing the woman to squeak with surprise. She looked at him, but did not back away when he pushed her blouse collar aside so he could see more. He frowned realising it must be the venom working its way through her body.

"What is that?" Sparrow suddenly asked pointing at the cloud. Reaver looked at it and scowled angrily.

"That is very dangerous, what ever you do don't touch it," he stated firmly and she looked confused.

"Why not?" she question.

"You will disappear," he said refusing to look down at her as he dragged her over to the bookcase that he knew led to his rear passage. She looked all the more confused as the dog leaned against her.

"Is... is that a bad thing?" she asked as Reaver ran his hands over the books until his fingers touched the right book. He inclined his head a little so he could just see her out of the corner of his eye.

"That is a very bad thing."

She looked at him with furrowed brows trying to figure him out. "Why do you care?"

The words reverberated through Reaver's head and many possible answers came to him, but all were deplorable to him. He shook his head and smiled a little as he yanked the book then waited.

"It's not a matter of whether I care or not dear," he finally said as gigs and cogs hidden within the wood work groaned, creaking into life, "there are a lot of people who don't want you to disappear." He smiled triumphantly as the book case shook and slid aside to reveal a familiar hole leading to the smuggler tunnels beneath. Sparrow regarded him with a strange expression. He turned back to look at her and her heart skipped a beat as he stared at her with his bright green eyes. She gulped and looked at the cloud as if it were an excuse not to look at him for fear of... what was she afraid of when she looked at him? She could not even remember who he was and yet her body reacted to something her mind knew nothing of.

She let out a gasp of shock as the cloud suddenly reached into the room and lapped up the floor hungrily leaving nothing but darkness. She rushed over to Reaver who held out his hand encouragingly. Reaver looked at the dog who remained sat where he was regarding the pirate gravely.

"Come on what are you waiting for!?" Reaver demanded and Sparrow looked back at the animal who looked almost sad, but with a resolute determination it got up to face the cloud with a defiant growl. Reaver instantly understood though the expression on Sparrow's face told him how confused she was.

"Gwayne?" Sparrow whispered as the bookcase began to slide closed and the dog looked at Sparrow with a love and affection that brought a lump to the woman's throat. Something inside Sparrow sparked and she flung herself at the bookcase with a scream in order to stop it from closing. Reaver quickly grabbed her to stop her from getting stuck as it snapped closed her fists slamming against the wood causing it to shudder. "no GWAYNE!! not again, please not again."

She slumped to the floor and burst into tears as a loud whimper of pain filtered through the wood and then silence. Reaver stared at Sparrow blinking slightly.

"You remember the dog?" he asked incredulously.

She turned a little towards the pirate and nodded tears streaking down her face. Reaver knew his anger was unjustified considering the circumstances, but he scowled darkly.

"You remember him, but not me!" he sounded hurt causing the woman to look up at him with wide eyes. His anger slowly ebbed away as they stared at each other and he knew he could not stay angry as those blue orbs stared at him with fear, confusion and ultimately pain.

"I want to, believe me, I want to but I can't," she said her voice quavering, fresh tears making their way down her pink cheeks. Reaver sighed and grabbed her by the arm. She let him lift her to her feet then half drag her down the narrow corridor that sloped gently into the ground.

"Well... we have to keep moving either way," he said his voice slightly subdued, "we have to figure out how to beat this thing before it beats us. When we do your memories should return, I hope."

Sparrow nodded and straightened with a look of renewed determination wiping away her tears. She quickened her steps so that they ran side by side through the tunnels and caverns. Her eyes scanned her surroundings her mind desperately groping at things that felt like water in her mind. She suddenly screamed as the floor beneath her shuddered violently and a deep menacing rumble caused loose stones to fall from the high ceiling above them. She collapsed to her knees to cover her head, but something warm quickly covered her body to protect her from the debris that clattered about them. When the rumbling stopped she looked up at Reaver who pulled away quickly ready to get on their way. Sparrow reached out to him and grabbed his arm for fear he may leave her behind. A strong hand covered hers and she looked at Reaver who peered at her with an unreadable expression. He patted her hands and smiled wanly.

"Come on we have to keep moving," he whispered allowing her to take his hand which he grasped firmly. They made their way through a tunnel that lead to a wooden slatted bridge, but the way forward was blocked.

If they could keep going forward then maybe something in the cove would be able to help Sparrow, Reaver thought excitedly to himself. It was their only hope and he so wanted to be out of this whole mess already. He grabbed the wooden planks that obstinately blocked their path and yanked violently, but they refused to budge.

"No, not now," he growled kicking and thumping on the offending material, but no matter how hard he hammered it merely shuddered under the pirates strength.

Sparrow looked alarmed and she watched helpless. A slow chill ran up her spine and her arm began to ache painfully. She gasped loudly and collapsed to her knees cradling her painful limp. Reaver turned attracted by the noise and rushed to her side.

"Sparrow?" his voice was laced with worry and his hands hovered about her body unsure whether to touch her or not.

"M...my arm, it hurts," she whimpered letting out a weak yell as a wave of pain shuddered up her arm again.

A dark chuckle suddenly reverberated through the cavern and Reaver scanned the area, his eyes widening in shock as the dense cloud rose about them, swirling and churning in sickening circles as it consumed the cavern surrounding them in a shell of complete darkness. Sparrow clutched at Reaver's shirt as the discordant sound echoed around them.

"Watching you run around like a mouse trapped in a maze has been truly amusing,"a high pitched, stringent voice chuckled, "yet you cannot escape your fates, it is inevitable and you cannot fight me."

"Is that so," Reaver replied calmly though his insides seethed with fury, "I beg to differ."

The voice chuckled again. "Indeed," it said and it paused as if considering something, plunging the darkness into a cold silence, "I think when I am done with this pathetic wench I will have you too, you are quite... shall we say seasoned." It chuckled again making the pair shudder, "You would make for quite the meal. Looks of painful and … tasty memories. Now you will watch as I consume what is left of this... dare I say it, woman... humph rather worthless human being if I do say so."

Reaver suddenly wished he had his Dragon Stomper, a sword or anything to rend this monstrous piece of shit to pieces. His body quaked as his anger coursed through his body leaving his muscles tingling. He glared up at the dark cloud that surrounded them defiantly his green eyes flashing dangerously.

"Sparrow is not worthless!" he shouted clutching the woman to him protectively a few defiant words leaking from his memory, "I don't care who you are or why you want Sparrow, but you are not getting her you hear me," he yelled at the swirling darkness, "As long as I hold breath I will keep her from you, you hear!"

"Reaver?" Sparrow whispered in an uncertain voice as she watched his face crease with the repressed wrath that threatened to burst from him and she gasped as his trembling body began to glow with a yellow light. It was weak at first, but grew stronger as his emotions fuelled an unknown power. The words sounded vaguely familiar, but before she could contemplate it she suddenly stiffened as another wave of pain racked her body leaving her breathing weakly. She suddenly felt tired and wanted to close her eyes, but seeing Reaver had her mesmerized.

He looked down at her worriedly and she smiled weakly before her eyes grew shiny with tears.

"I'm tired Reaver," she whispered and the Pirate's eyes widened and began to shake his head slowly unwilling to accept what he had heard.

"Tired, what do you mean?"

"I am just tired, but I don't want... don't want to close my eyes," she stammered as the tears ran silently down her cheek, "I don't want to disappear!"

Reaver swallowed the lump that rose to his throat and as best he could he looked down at Sparrow with one of his charming smile his hand rising to tentatively touch her face.

"Its okay, you won't disappear," Reaver assured his voice quavering slightly.

"Why?" she questioned her eyes appealing.

"Because I won't let you," he said a lonely tear running down his cheek, "I won't."

A disgusted noise roamed round them. "I think I'm going to be going to be sick," the voice said "Are you two finished because I am very hungry now."

Reaver ignored him even as the darkness started to draw in closer his own yellow glow defied it with all the strength he could muster. He held Sparrow close as he stroked her face and leaned forward to kiss the woman deeply who responded almost desperately. A blood chilling scream danced about them as a bright light scorched through his eye lids blinding him. He began to panic when all feeling left him, not the touch of her lips, nor the feel of her body in his arms. A strange warmth filtered though the coldness alleviating the frigid atmosphere. His own body felt numb almost weightless as the scream began to fade to nothing and he hesitantly opened his eyes.

The darkness had been replaced by a blinding whiteness that stung his eyes painfully. What the hell happened just now? His mind reeled as he tried to turn, but he had no idea if he was actually turning or not. There was no shadow or anything to indicate that he was in any space or dimension that was... real.

Was that all there was too it?The solution had been disarmingly simple and he huffed infuriated by the fact.

He jumped in shock when he turned around again and saw Sparrow standing a small distance away with her back to him. He tried calling out, but like when he was in the labyrinth of her mind, no sound escaped his mouth. However, it seemed she had heard him, because she turned to face him with a gentle smile her eyes shining with appreciation.

Thankyou, she mouthed, Thank you … Robin. Reaver gasped in shock and made to reach for her just as her image faded his fist gripping nothing, but air. He fumbled and fought even as his vision faded to black, his body going limp.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Adrianna jumped as another pop wake her from the small nap. By now seven of the nine candles had gone out and all three of them were showing signs of fatigue. Adrianna sat up rubbing her eyes looking around in a confused fashion even though she knew where she was. She gazed down at poor Lorna who was bowed forward with her hair hanging limp in her face and she breathed heavily from strain of keeping up the constant harmony. Garth was the same though he was not hunched as far. His hands clenched and unclenched trying to keep his concentration. Adrianna felt sorry for them as they had been at it for a constant ten hours so far and it was early morning judging by the pale light that had began to filter through the curtains.

She sat up and stretched her stomach suddenly growling in protest as her hunger made it ache. She ignored it and stubbornly remained where she was shifting her muscles to ease the numbness that had begun to settle in.

Oota suddenly moved causing the young woman to become alert and tense. She watched the old man expectantly even as he just sat and stared at the bed with intent eyes, almost as if he was expecting something to happen. She continued to watch as he slid something from the inside of his sleeve. The eighth candle quickly extinguished sending alarm bells ringing though her mind when she noticed that it went out a bit too quickly.

Oota slowly stood with agonising slowness his chanting taking on a different tone as he advanced on the bed. Adrianna spied the last candle sat up on the head board above Sparrow's and Reaver's heads casting a gentle glow upon their faces. She gasped as the flame flickered growing dim then bright again as if it were fighting to keep alight. She watched it hope suddenly exploding in her chest as she constantly wished again and again that it would stay alight. She dreaded what would happen if it went out and refused to think about it.

Oota then raised his hand as he stood on Sparrow's side of the bed staring down at her, eyes calculating and intent. Adrianna tore her eyes from the flame reluctantly to watch Oota place something upon her neck in the small notch just at the bas of her throat between her collar bones. The small implement glinted sickly in the pale light and Adrianna stared in shock as he made a quick movement causing blood to gush over Sparrow's once pristine which bodice. She let out a squeal but as she stood to rush over she felt her limbs lock. Her eyes widened like a panic stricken animal as she found herself paralysed. She had no choice, but to stand and watch as blood continued to trickle from the incision... wait her blood was trickling. Adrianna had little knowledge of the human body, but she did know if a person's blood was leaking from a wound after they were pronounced dead then possibly, just possibly their heart was beating.

Her panicked expression turned to shock as something black was forcing its way through her skin causing the layer to pulse and bulge as it wriggled through. A tendril suddenly burst from the wound waving at the air and fear quickly consumed her as she watched it ease itself from the cut. A cruel grin suddenly appeared in Oota's silvery white beard as he gave the worm a quick flick sending it tumbling into the bowl of water. A loud hiss emanated from the bowl as thick black steam rose from the now tepid. The creature shrieked in pain as it thrashed about vainly in the water as it slowly dissolved till there was nothing, but small pieces of black flesh floating about upon the opaque liquids surface.

Oota seemed satisfied and place his hand over the small incision. When he removed his hand it was gone and Adrianna stumbled as she felt her limbs come back to life. Reaver suddenly sat bolt upright causing Adrianna to squeal with surprise. Reaver looked at her, then his eyes hesitantly trailed over Lorna, Garth, Oota and finally Sparrow. He knelt on the bed and looked down at Sparrow intently, tapping her face to encourage her to wake.

"Sparrow?" his voice sounded hoarse in his ears as he waited impatiently for her to respond, but nothing happened. He looked up at Oota almost accusingly.

"Why isn't se waking up!?" he demanded of the old man, "I did everything I was supposed to I … I think I saved her."

Oota returned the gaze levelly and sighed. "Reaver it maybe that she was just to weak," he finally said, "I'm sorry."

A weakness overcame Reaver and he slouched on the bed running a hand through his hair.

"So it was all for nothing," he whispered shaking his head in disbelief. Lorna slowly got up wobbling on her legs a little and tentatively approached the bed gripping the sheets as blood rushed back into her lower limbs.

"Reaver..." she reached out her small hand towards him but he waved her away.

"No, leave me alone," he groaned bowing his head in the knowing that all he had just went through had been all in vain. Every time someone he thought could have been the one person to save him they always ended up hurt. Was this part of the curse that the Shadow Court placed upon him? Was it some sick joke of some ones who so delighted in tormenting his already frozen heart?

Lorna rolled her eyes and peered at Sparrow who remained still. Throughout the whole thing she could feel Sparrow's spirit grow a little stronger as time had gone passed even though there had been times of doubt as the spirit flickered dangerously. Lorna could tell Sparrow was alive, maybe she just needed some rest. Then, just for a brief moment she thought she saw one of Sparrow's eyes open as the woman stirred.

Reaver jumped as Sparrow groaned and her eyes slowly opened blinking painfully. Reaver looked down at her his face mirroring shock as she looked back at him with a confused frown.

"Sparrow?" Reaver whispered tentatively feeling excitement causing butterflies to flutter madly in his stomach. She looked at him blinking gently.

"Who the hell are you?" she asked her voice raspy. A mixture of emotions rushed over Reaver's usually calm face ranging from relief, shock then anger as he growled a little in his throat. Sparrow suddenly began to giggle the sound punctuated by muffled groans as her body ached as it refusing to move.

"What!... you!... gaah!" the pirate grabbed his hair in exasperation, "I don't believe you, you infuriating woman!"

Sparrow began to laugh coughing and sputtering as she did so. The whole erupted into a chorus of hoots and shouts as Garth, along with Adrianna crowded the bed attempting to help her sit up, which she did so stiffly. Lorna stared at Sparrow her bottom lip starting to quiver and with a wail she leapt into the woman's arms in a flood of weeping brought on mainly by exhaustion and happiness at seeing Sparrow alive.

"Mama," she cried into the woman's shoulder, "I knew you were alive, I knew it!"

Sparrow blinked frozen suddenly as the words washed over her. She was not even sure if she had heard right as a lump suddenly rose to her throat. Her arms wrapped tightly about Lorna's murmuring reassurances as her heart was filled with an ecstasy that she had not felt in long time. Garth let out a bark of laughter and wagged a tired finger at Sparrow who peered at him with blurry eyes.

"You know this is becoming a dangerous habit of yours," he said shaking his head affectionately, "How many times does this make?"

Sparrow chuckled patting and stroking Lorna's back as the girl began to hiccup amongst sniffles. "I lost count," she said with a indifferent shrug.

Adrianna puffed out her cheeks angrily her dark eyes flashing. "What do you mean by that?' her voice going up a few octaves, "You've died before?"

Sparrow looked up at the dark skinned woman and smiled warmly. "Yeah, I suppose you could say that."

"You never told me," Adrianna whined crossing her arms indignantly.

"Well, I for one am glad that's over and done with," Reaver said with a tired sigh slipping so he sat on the bed and stretched out his legs leaning on his hands to stare at the ceiling. Sparrow turned her head to look at him curiously a light frown on her face. He returned the stare with one of indifference.

"Yes?"

"Nothing," Sparrow said leaning over and kissed him quickly on the cheek, "just, thank you."

Reaver's eyes widened and sudden grin appeared. He looked down at her with an eyebrow raised sending a bright blush over Sparrow's cheeks.

"Don't press your luck Reaver," she planted her hand on his face to push him away. Lorna giggled making Reaver pout as he pushed the hand away trying to kiss it, but before he could Sparrow snatched it back glaring balefully at him. He merely grinned and gave her a wink, but to his surprise she giggled before looking to Oota who coughed rather loudly.

"I hate to break up this happy moment, but it would seem we have something of importance to discuss," he said seriously looking at each person in turn, "First..." He pointed at Reaver trying to repress as smile, which made his moustache twitch, "...did you see anything embarrassing?"

Reaver looked up at Oota for a moment before a huge grin plastered across his face. An eruption of laughter rang again when Sparrow hit Reaver hard enough for him to fall off the bed.

"You dare say anything and I … I … will tell them what I saw!" she said indignantly and he shot up to glare at her.

"What... what did you see?" he asked a hint of fear in his tone. Sparrow merely smiled mysteriously and lifted her chin a little.

"Okay children, settle down," Oota laughed, "but on a more serious note we must discuss who the perpetrator was."

Silence fell as their minds tried to piece things together. Reaver frowned as he slid back onto the bed suddenly feeling very suspicious. His eyes trailed the room and he noticed the painting on the wall. A portrait of some important man, Reaver did not care, but he did notice that there was something wrong with the eyes. He turned to look at the others who watched him curiously.

"I think I might know," he admitted in a low voice.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sorry this one is a bit late lots of work as usual. The next one won't be up for a couple of weeks just warn ppl with my work load and all. Though I hope people enjoyed this chapter so read and review with any comments.