Title: A Thousand Miles
Chapter: Five [The Meeting]
A/N: Sorry I haven't posted any chapters up on this fan fiction for a long timebut no it hasn't disappeared into some weird, cosmic, black hole its still here and I hope you enjoy it! I just have a few points to make. Firstly, I mentioned in the last chapter how that was Training: Rory's Story' and this chapter would be Training: Tristan's Story', but I figured that it would just take too long, and it would drag the story on, so I just skipped it and got to the part when Rory and Tristan actually meet, for the first time. So the previous chapter is just going to be called Training' and this chapter is going to be called the meeting.' Pretty self-explanatory. But, because of this, there has been another major time jump so now Rory is sixteen. =P Secondly, I mentioned five other thieves in the previous chapter, and I described them as boys'. I'd just like to change that to people' or something, because if you read this chapter you'll find that some of them are a little bit old to be called boys'. Excuse me on this- I shall correct that chapter when I can be bothered. Also thank you for all you're great reviews, please keep them coming! The feedback's priceless ^.^ I tried to make this chapter [not just the a/n] a little bit longer to make up for the delays I have had in writing the next chapter! I hope you enjoy!!!
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Three carts were set up next to each other. The one on the left was selling fresh fruits and vegetables, and was watched by a burly, dark-haired man with large eyebrows and log sideburns. The one in the middle was selling pots and pans, and was tended by a skinny, unpleasant looking woman with a sour mouth and a small pinched nose. The one on the right was selling various jewels and other fancy trinkets, and was tended by a young, darkly tanned boy with large, hazel eyes.
A sixteen-year-old Rory watched from a rooftop, her eyes darting from side to side trying to decide which cart to ambush. Her eyes fell on the cart in the middle. Sookie's birthday was coming up and a brand-new, large, bronze pot would be the perfect gift.
Rory sensed soundless footfalls behind her and felt a shadow fall over her. Looking up she saw the large figure of Mitch towering over her, his messy brown hair shadowing his eyes and giving him a dangerous look. This, of course, was deceiving. Mitch, being the second eldest of the gang of thieves, was like a big brother to Rory, the big brother she never had.
Which one? he asked her softly, motioning to the carts.
The one in the middle Rory whispered back. It's Sookie's birthday soon and I want to get her something special.
Are you sure you want to steal her present? You know how she feels about you thieving Mitch reminded Rory. Rory shifted uncomfortably.
I didn't really think of that. She admitted.
Mitch reached into his left pocket and pulled out a couple of gold coins and held them out to Rory. She looked at them in confusion.
What are those for? she asked.
For you. Mitch grinned. I found them on a pathway a couple of miles from here. I didn't steal them, I promise.
But what would I use them for? Rory wanted to know.
To buy one of those big bronze pots for Sookie's birthday.
Rory looked up at Mitch sharply. You can't ask me to take this. It's yours.
I'm giving it to you. It's yours now. Mitch pressed the coins into Rory's hand and winked. Plus, I want to steal some stuff from the cart on the right, and I can't do that with you in the way.
Rory's pretty face broke into a grin and her clear blue eyes sparkled. Standing on her tiptoes she gave Mitch a quick peck on the cheek. Mitch grinned wider and turned around, walking into the shadows. Rory jumped down soundlessly from the roof, and walked up to the middle cart, coins still in hand. The skinny, sour-mouthed woman looked at the approaching Rory with distaste, taking into account the state of her clothes and the small knife at her waste.
the woman asked sharply, her quick eyes darting from side to side suspiciously, laying one hand protectively over her pots.
I want to buy one of your pots. Rory said as politely as she could. That big bronze one would be nice.
Do you have money? the woman sniffed, as if trying to muss out the scent of gold. She now looked at Rory with a tiny bit more respect. This kid had money and she was going to swindle it from her!
How much is the pot? Rory asked innocently. The woman cursed under her breath. This kid knew how to haggle. Rory hadn't actually bought a single thing honestly from any cart whatsoever, but she had seen people do it countless times before. Jess, whose talents never seemed to cease, had given her a few tips. Pretend that you know what you're doing, even if you don't,' was his advice. It's all in the attitude.'
Five gold coins. The woman said stubbornly. Rory's stomach churned in her stomach; she only had four gold coins. Swallowing hard, she started walking away.
Where are you going? the lady asked.
You can't fool me, lady. Rory said firmly although inside she was a nervous wreck. I'd pay three golden coins for that and no more.
the lady spluttered. Are you trying to buy me broke, child? I can't live on three golden coins!
Rory shrugged. You're better off with three golden coins than with none. But, that of course, is my opinion. Rory sighed and continued walking.
Four! Four coins! That's as low as I'm going! I've got children to feed, you know! The lady shrieked from behind her. Rory hid her grin and turned around.
she said softly. Well, I don't know
It's as low as I'm going. The woman glared at her stubbornly.
Rory sighed. I really shouldn't, she said in mock sympathy, handing the lady four gold coins. But I feel sorry for all those children you have to feed. Children should never go hungry.
The woman took the four coins grudgingly and handed Rory the large bronze pot. Rory took it, said a hasty thank you, and walked away smiling. Her smile turned into a grin when she heard her friends attacking the trinket cart. As metal hit metal, shouts came from behind her.
Rory! The hideout! Mitch's voice called out. Then there was silence.
The hideout? Rory thought to herself, and sighed out loud. I have to carry this huge bronze pot all the way to the hideout!
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Jess looked up quickly as the revolving bookcase swung around the reveal Rory. She was carrying a ridiculously large bronze pot in her left hand, and in her right hand she was holding a non-descript, red covered book. Replacing the book onto its proper spot on the bookshelf, she hastily stepped off the turning platform, which soundlessly revolved around back into its original position. As she collapsed, exhausted, into a wooden chair, Jess glared at her.
You're late. He pointed out, when she stared back at him questioningly.
Well you never said what time I had to be here. Rory protested. When she was met by the cold glances of the band of thieves, she frowned, and concentrated on the ground. I couldn't help it if the pot was so heavy.
Then why did you buy it? Jess asked harshly.
It's Sookie's birthday soon, and I wanted to get her something special. Rory explained.
So you were late because you were too busy picking out a birthday present? Jess asked disbelievingly. Rory's face brightened.
Yeah! Do you want to see it? It's got really strong handles and everything. Rory hurried forward to show the pot to Jess. The band of thieves that surrounded them laughed hard and heartily, Mitch the loudest of all.
Jess muttered darkly, and waved Rory away. Rory frowned, not understanding the joke, and swept her long dark hair back behind her shoulders.
And now, to business. Jess declared, clearing his throat and gathering up the shreds of his dignity. It's the king's birthday soon
Why should we care? Jon asked, his rat-like voice enlaced with hatred. He was a short, skinny, oily-haired man, twenty or so years old, gifted in spying and slipping in and out of places unnoticed. He bore a great dislike to the Royal Family, probably because they had hung his mother and younger sister when he was in his youth; the only family that he ever had.
We shouldn't, Jess said carefully, staring at Jon. Besides the small fact that Marcus is bringing the crown jewels from his stronghold of a palace for the ceremony.
Rory sat up straighter in her seat. What, so we're going to steal them? she asked.
We're going to attempt to. Jess nodded firmly.
Jon smiled, though to those who didn't know him well it looked very much like a grimace. Yeah, that'd pay the stinking royal family back he said, a dangerous glint in his eye.
Mitch spoke up, and hit his fist with the palm of his other hand. It's just too dangerous. We're never going to pull it off.
I side with Mitch. Spoke up Charles, a snobby boy fourteen years in age. He was a would-be noble, until he was convicted of treason. Rory still wasn't completely sure if he was innocent or not, the topic was hardly ever discussed. It's too dangerous. I'm not going to risk my neck for a couple of worthless diamonds!
Then you're a fool. Richard said. He was a farmer's son who, like Rory, became a thief to earn some money. But despite his lowly status in the great scheme of things, he was a brilliant strategist. It's a chance of a lifetime. I'd eat Jon's foot if Marcus ever brought the crown jewels out of his own private palace before this. I wonder why he's doing it
What's so important about these jewels anyway? Charles continued, sniffing impishly. They don't look very valuable to me.
Despite how valuable they might look to you, Charles, in the real world, they're worth more than five million gold coins. Ronald said softly. Even Jess' mouth dropped open. No one questioned whether or not this was true, or how Ronald had gotten this information. Ronald was old, very old. Rory suspected he was over a hundred. He was the eldest in the band of thieves and he was still in good shape, light as a feather, quick and nimble, though he hardly ever spoke. But when he did, everyone was sure to listen, for his words came from wisdom's mouth itself.
Five million gold coins? Rory repeated disbelievingly.
I don't care! Mitch growled. It's still too dangerous!
Jess opened his mouth to argue, but Rory stopped him. It's not dangerous, Mitch, she said calmly; only her eyes betrayed her- they wide and sparkling with excitement. It's a challenge. We're the best of the best in thievery and trickery. No one else has managed to survive for so long without being caught. We're going to make it. We're going to steal the crown jewels, and not just for ourselves, but also for everyone who has ever been trodden over by the royal monarchy. And for you, momshe added silently.
There was silence in which everyone was staring at Rory in amazement. It was moments like this when Jess valued Rory's friendship above all else.
Here here! Jon called out loudly, breaking the silence with his loud claps. The others joined in, even Jess and Ronald. After the applause had died away, Jess leaned forward.
Form a circle. He commanded, charcoal and parchment in hand. We've got a plan to devise
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Rory felt the familiar feeling of butterflies in her stomach and the adrenaline pumping through her blood, like she always felt when she was about to undergo a huge undercover scheme. Reaching down underneath her silk coat, she was relieved to find her sharp, silver dagger still firmly attached to her waste. She had only ever harmed someone with it once before, a blacksmith armed with hot metal, and only then she had stabbed him in the foot, but she had hated the experience all the same. Still, it was reassuring to know that she had some means of protection from the merciless palace guards. She looked at Jess and then at Charles, both of who were standing on either side of her. Charles was fiddling with his high neck collar nervously, while Jess was as cool as always. Jess was never nervous before a robbery.
Rory had to admit that Jess looked quite handsome and grown up in his outfit. He was wearing white leggings, semi-white pants, a smart blue coat with gold tassels, and black, polished shoes. He was quite the gentleman. Even Charles didn't look all that bad in his ensemble, which was identical to Tristan's except red in colour. Rory, herself, felt uncomfortable wearing nobles' clothes. Her dress was long and silver-grey, and it shimmered when she moved. Since it was a little chilly out, she also wore a purple silk cloak. Sookie had done her hair in a fancy style, all the while whispering words of warning and advice to Rory nervously. Charles had easily donned himself, Rory and Jess these nobles' clothing so that they could sneak inside the palace unnoticed, perhaps as a couple of noble kids who had wondered a little too far. A footfall behind them walked Mitch in a plain black smock and black tights. He was dressed to imitate a palace guard, since his build was about the same and his features, common to a large extent.
Rory swallowed as the group of four passed a large line of guards, and she hoped that Richard and Jon's disguise would be successful. They were a little way back, dressed as farmers bringing food supplies to the palace kitchen. Richard's father had kindly lent them his cart and given them various fruits and vegetables to load the cart with. For a brief second Rory was envious of Ronald. Because of his old age his part in the dangerous scheme was to keep watch at head quarters, far, far away from the palace. But then she came to her senses and realised that she didn't want to be somewhere far away, safe and sound. She wanted to make a difference.
After successfully passing the palace guards, Mitch split up from the rest of them, and pretended to stand post next to one of the many large windows. Rory wasn't worried about him; he looked like a professional. It was herself that she was worried about. She almost blew her cover several times. Her closest encounter with failure was when she past her grandparents while walking. They were dressed very ceremoniously but had a sad look in their eyes. When Rory bypassed them, her grandfather stopped her.
Excuse me, Miss, you look so very much like my deceased daughter. May I ask what your name is he said in a deep, sorrowful voice.
Oh Richard, stop fussing, Rory's grandmother fixed up his coat, turning around so that no one could see the tears in her eyes. Never mind him, dear. She murmured to Rory. He's getting a little bit to old for all these ceremonial occasions. And with that, Emily and Richard Gilmore hurried off.
Rory looked wistfully at the direction they had hurried off to, but Jess laid a firm hand on her shoulder. We're your family now. He said, a little jealously. Rory dismissed his attitude as just being protective. Not them. They wouldn't have even turned an eye on you if not for the expensive clothing that you were wearing.
Rory nodded numbly, trying to agree with Jess, but inside, she wasn't so sure. She kept on thinking about the encounter long after Richard and Emily had passed, even with Jess throwing her warning glances every couple of seconds. Eventually, Charles, Jess and Rory reached their parting spot. Charles would hop out onto the window's balcony on the left, guarding the spot where their escape route lied, while Rory and Jess would hide out on the balcony on the right. It was them who would do the actual stealing. As they whispered good luck' to each other and waved goodbye, they each positioned themselves in their proper hiding spot. Of course, there was the small problem of the guards who were surrounding the room that the crown jewels were placed in. If Rory peeked into the window she could see the jewels, shimmering in the fast disappearing sunlight, but the guard's shadows always darkened the splendour. No matter, for when the time came, Richard, Mitch and Jon would cover Rory and Jess' backs while they did the actual thieving. Actually, Richard and Jon would do most of the dirty work; Mitch was just a back up, in case something went wrong.
Rory impatiently waited for the cover of darkness. Staring up into the sky she saw the sun begin to set, it's beautiful crimson-orange colours painted beautifully over the star-speckled sky.
Oh, Jess, look! she said, touching his arm lightly. He looked.
It's a sunset. Wow. Jess replied sarcastically. Rory glared at him.
Must you spoil everything beautiful and magnificent? she asked him, annoyed. Jess grinned mischievously.
Well, I spoiled you, didn't I he said, a cheeky glint in his eye. Rory swung her arm around to punch him lightly on the arm, but doing so out of the corner of her eye she saw a palace guard unsheathing his knife. She had no time to warn Jess so she changed her tactics. Instead of punching him, she swung both of her arms around his neck and kissed him, squeezing her eyes shut expecting to feel cold steel slicing between her ribs at any moment.
The guard coughed, and Rory and Jess pulled apart. Jess' eyes were wide with shock but Rory just faced the guard, embarrassed.
Do you think you could give us a little privacy, sir she asked in a small, seductive voice, her blue eyes shining mysteriously. The guard mumbled a few words about not getting carried away and then hastily averted his gaze, shuffling away. Rory turned to Jess who was no staring at her like she had three heads. She shuddered to think that she had kissed him. It was like kissing your own brother!
Why did you do that for? Jess exclaimed suddenly, coming to life. He wiped his sleeve across his mouth roughly in disgust.
Oh don't be such a baby about it, Rory said, feeling a blush rise to her cheeks. I did what I had to do.
There were other ways, you know. Jess fumed.
Rory remained quiet, concentrating very hard on her fingernails. There was an uncomfortable silence between the two until darkness completely covered the castle and the party was well and truly underway. It was time for action.
Rory's eyes shimmered in excitement. Any minute now, Jon and Richard were going to burst through the wooden doors of the room, after they had taken care of the guards outside the doors. Mitch was already hiding on a balcony closer to the doors, a convenient spot where he could step in if things got out of hand. There was a faint thump outside the two doors. The ten guards in the room perked their ears up, and four of the guards went to investigate while six stayed close to the crown jewels. A brave guard, probably the commanding officer, opened the door. He paused in shock, and took in his two doormen lying dead on the ground, one pierced in the neck by a sword, and one smothered to death. Then was greeted by the smiling face of Richard, who slit his throat quickly and professionally. Rory looked away and swallowed hard. She felt Jess's hand touch her arm protectively; he knew how she felt about killings. She was grateful for his presence.
As Jon and Richard preceded killing and crippling the guards, Jess and Rory kept a close watch. When nine of the guards were down and only one was left, Jess signalled to Rory that it was time to move. The two jumped inside the window, and sped across the room to where the crown jewels were held. Jess grabbed them and wrapped them inside a pouch of green velvet, hanging it around his neck. Then he grabbed Rory's arm and motioned for her to run ahead to the other side of the room where another window was; that should have been where Charles was hiding, but he was not there. Rory was suddenly aware of how quiet the room had gotten. She turned around with dread in her stomach. Another regiment of guards, more than two-dozen, were entering the room. They had red sashes around their waste; they were the king's personal protectors. Jon was injured, blood was pouring down the side of his face, and he was feebly fighting off the attacks of the guards. Richard was lying unconscious on the ground. Jess had fallen over one of the bodies of the dead soldiers and was now struggling to get up. Rory hurried to help him but looked up when one more people entered the room; Marcus, holding a knife to Charles throat.
Jess finally scrambled to his feet but a fast moving guard pierced him deep in the ankle and he moaned in pain. Clutching his right foot, he moaned in agony, but with his left hand he swung the velvet pouch off his neck and threw it at Rory. Rory caught it, and made a run for the window. She made it! Jumping through the window with the pouch clutched firmly in hand, she was about to climb down the escape rope that Charles was supposed to attach to the railing of the balcony, but it was not there. Crouching on the ground, she searched pathetically for it, until she heard someone behind her unsheathing a sword. Then she felt cold, sharp metal pressed against her throat, and looked up to see her attacker. It was the king. He was holding his sword in one hand and the escape rope in the other. His blue-green eyes were unreadable.
Well, well, he said in an amused tone, his voice smooth and strangely calm. What do we have here?
Authors Other Note: R/R Please! Thankyou!!! ^.^