DISCLAIMER: I do not own Assassin's Creed or its characters except my own like Alexei etc.
I hope you like this next chapter.
Chapter 5: Settling In
1st July, 1776
I woke up while the skies were still dark and lonely without the sunrise. I realised that my sleep was undisturbed and smiled for the first time in such a long while. I threw the sheets from my body and sat up. I rubbed my eyes of sleep and yawned as I stretched my arms and legs for a few seconds. I slouched and groaned at the thought of work today, I didn't want to train or think about moving at all. Of course at some point I'd have to so I pull my trousers on and used some cloth to bind my breasts, pulling my blouse over it. I silently stepped towards the door barefoot and peeped out, scanning the hall. Nothing.. no sign or sound of Connor or Achilles. I shrugged, turning and strapping my blades to my arms and my weapons to my hips. I walked into the hall, looking around one time before heading downstairs and looking for the kitchen. Well, trying. After a quick search about I found the kitchen and rummaged around for something to serve up. I crouched next to an open cupboard and found some eggs and bread. I set them on the worktop, "Eggs and toast I suppose.." I pulled a pan from a hook and set it down on the stove... now to light it. Matches! Oh god.. I have no idea where there are!
After ten minutes I finally found some matches and quickly lit up the stove and placed the pan over it. I picked up some eggs cracking each one on the side of the pan till they gave way, the egg's contents sizzling when it hit the hot pan. I lit the over ring on the stove and placed another pan on it but put some bread onto it, taking it off when it slightly crisped. I searched for some plates, I even searched under the worktops. Nothing... I scratched my head, where are the damn plates? I went down on my hands and knees, pulling open a cupboard door as I popped my head in. I need them plates?!
"What are you doing?" Connor's voice sounded behind me. I slammed my head into the inside of the cupboard, clutching my skull after crying out in pain.
I looked up and crawled out of the cupboard. "Ow.." I rubbed my scalp in pain. I glared at him, his eyes seemed to flash to guilt.
"I did not mean to scare you.. What were you doing?" Connor looked around the room, looking a tad sheepish when his eyes met my glare.
"Cooking breakfast and trying to find plates.." I huffed checking the eggs before they burnt and flipping the crisping bread. "I didn't want to disturb you or Achilles so I decided to rummage around for food"
Connor tapped my shoulder as I turned he held out three plates for me, I took them off him. "Thank you, where were they so I know next time?"
Connor nodded towards the dining room, "Dining room cabinet" He chuckled at my frustrated face.
"Go get Achilles, I'll serve breakfast" I pushed him away as I emptied the pan's contents onto the plates and blew out the flames that heated the stove. "Smart ass.."
"I heard that, Rozalina" He chuckled as his footsteps began to fade away towards Achilles room. I huffed, he was really starting to annoy me now. Stupid Connor and his stupid hearing abilities...Balancing the plates on my forearm, I slowly walked to the dining room. Eavesdropping whilst being a disguised maid or waitress in Russia was definitely paying off, balancing three plates on my forearm was damn handy. My eyes flashing towards the plates every few seconds as I stepped into the dining room. Achilles sat at the head of the table and smiled at me when I walked over.
I sat his plate in front of him and smiled, "Thank you child," He beckoned me to sit down.
"Where does Connor sit? I don't want to intrude and also where will you have me sit?" I shuffled a little on the spot, switching the two plates from my forearm to one in each hand.
Achilles took one of the plates from my hand and set one on his right. "Connor sits on my right, you are welcome to sit on my left if you wish" I smiled with glee, quickly setting my plate down and pulling the seat out for myself as I sat. Connor the awkward child that he is came and sat opposite me. DAMN IT ALL. His foot brushed against mine, my eyes seemed suddenly fascinated by the knife in my right hand, I must look like a retard. Staring at a knife.. I looked up slightly, seeing a reddish hue across his cheeks... not subtle at all.
"You two are quiet this morning" Achilles, you absolute sod. Why would you say that?! "What are you planning to do next then Connor?"
I listened but started eating, just shovelling eggs and toast in my mouth so I could get out of there. "I think it's best to allow Washington to know of our existence. It is the only way to keep him safe"
I choked a bit, "Are you sure that's best?" I coughed out. He made eye contact, a fierce almost menacing look in his eyes.
"I am certain that it is the only way" He continued to glare at me like I was a Templar. I raise my eyebrow at him in a challenging way.
"Just don't come home weeping if it goes wrong" I say coldly.
"Why do you think I will fail? I will not be weeping because it will not go wrong" He was by now full on raging at me. I put my hands up in surrender.
"I said 'if' not 'when'...wow you're scary when you're angry" I shrunk back into my chair, distancing myself from him.
Achilles cleared his throat, our attention drawn to him. "If Connor thinks it best then I can't stop you. Be wary of consequences boy and don't let your emotions control your actions" Connor got up, nodding his thanks for breakfast before heading up stairs.
"Is he always like that?" I widened my eyes in question. How did Achilles live like this, I would have smacked him to death with the cane by now.
"He gets carried away that's all. What will you be doing? Joining him or something else?" I hadn't thought of that, if I would go with Connor to meet Washington or stay. Maybe I could get to know everyone and this place better.. I wanted to build my strength and train. Maybe hunt as well!
"I think I will stay, train, hunt and get to know the village better" I smiled at Achilles, even if he made things awkward he was thoughtful and tolerant of Connor. God bless this old man's soul, he is a saint.
"That is a good idea, you can clean up and the rest of the day is yours" He stood up, hunching over his cane as he shuffled away. I leapt around in glee, a whole day to myself! I grabbed the plates and skidded into the kitchen and cleaned up. It was mid morning when I finished off everything, I left the kitchen heading towards the stairs to grab my boots. Connor came down and bumped into me. I looked up apologising for my clumsiness, I squeezed my hands together. Do I say goodbye? But how?
"Will you be joining me or staying here?" He asked firmly, wanting a quick answer.
"I will stay and train myself up whilst you are gone. How long will you be away?" I asked trying to conceal my awkward and blushing girlish side. Damn my emotions.
"A week at most. I will be going now" He turned to leave however my arm thought we were two magnets. I grabbed his sleeve, tugging him back to my attention.
"Do not get yourself killed, we still need to have that match. I expect my opponent to be alive" I let go of his sleeve, chuckling to myself as I pushed him towards the door. "Goodbye, Connor"
"I will return, do not be concerned. Goodbye Rozalina..." He turned walking towards the door in full assassin's robes as he shut the door with a soft click. I turned around and clenched my fists, what was I supposed to do? Hug him? Shake his hand? No... I sighed and headed up stairs pulling on my boots as I suddenly reminded myself. I must write to Alexei and Mr. Adams.. I pulled out Mr. Adams address and started writing..
Mr. Adams,
I have arrived at the Homestead, the land is welcoming and homely and I think I'll enjoy being here. Achilles as been most kind and granted me welcome in the Homestead. I hope I can visit Boston and visit you at some point when our lives are not filled with taxing tasks of this nation. I only see Connor as my co-worker if that answers your question, I will not say anymore on it. I'm only here to work not get married off like other women would allow, I am here to help only; as you understand. How is everything in Boston? I hope the red coats are not causing too much trouble and that you and your companions are safe. Connor has business away but I've chose to stay behind and train for the next task at hand. I hope you receive this letter soon, you have my regards and thank you,
Rozalina
I quickly folded up the letter and sealed in an envelope with the address already on the front. Though it was a short letter, I wanted to write to Alexei badly!
Alexei,
After a chaotic and taxing journey I have arrived in the New World. My arrival was not much appreciated as your instructions were unrecognizable after my trip across the seas. Thinking that the red coats were humble and loyal officers I asked politely for directions to Boston. They did not seem humble at all.. rather hostile if anything, basically I was dragged into an alley as they tried to strip me down in attempt of sexual assault...(You get the picture)
I finished writing my long letter to Alexei and sealed it in another envelope before putting the address we use for correspondence. How was I supposed to post these letters though? I'd have to ask Achilles.. I sighed, grabbing the two letters and heading off to find Achilles.
I stepped down the stairs and popped my head into various rooms till I found Achilles in his room reading. I rapped my knuckled against the wood of the door as if asking for permission to enter, Achilles looked up and smiled at me. He placed his book down and beckoned me in.
"What troubles you child?" He asked tenderly.
"I was wondering if you knew how I'd send my letters?" I held out the two letter for Achilles to see, he did not question why I was writing but continued to smile.
"You can have Mr Faulkner help, he knows what to do"
"Thank you sir, good day" I bid him my thanks as I walked down to the dock. Faulkner spotted me and waved cheerily. He walked down the dock to greet me.
"Good day Rozalina, what can I do for?" He asked as he patted my shoulder.
"I have a favour to ask of you, if you don't mind sir?" I bit my lip, bringing out the letters from behind me.
"Go on?" Faulkner beckoned me.
"Could you possibly post these letters for me in the appropriate manner?" I smiled lightly. Faulkner took the letters, inspecting the addresses.
"It'll be no problem lass, I'll get it done right away" He headed back up to the ship as I waved him my thanks.
"Thank you sir!" He waved at me as I walked back up to the Manor. Well at least Alexei and Mr. Adams would have my letters soon. The sun started to beat down on my back as I realised how hot July was in the New World. I took off my assassin robes and flung it over my bent arm as I made my way up the Manor steps. I pushed the door open and trudged up the stairs, I was not used to this heat.. oh god kill me now. I took off my blouse and redid my bindings so they completely covered my torso but didn't attracts the heat as much. I kept my leggings on and quickly pushed my hair into a ponytail. I remember seeing a stable outside and thought it would be best to spend my time there.
2nd July, 1776
I spent all day by the stables, the horses were beautiful and I instantly fell in love with a black stallion. Absolutely beautiful, in my mind I named him Shadow he had such a strong personality. He cheekily tried nibbling my hair but I shrugged him off, I placed a saddle onto his back and went for a ride. I spent the next few days riding Shadow and getting used to the lands, I still wasn't used to the damned heat though. 4th of July came upon us as Independence was declared but the Assassin's war was not over yet, Templars still loomed over our goals. We had to keep on working till our struggles produced results.
7th July, 1776
Connor had sent news that Washington had signed to the Independence of America, celebration was had on the 4th but I paid no attention. I continued to train hard and get used to the land.
Connor was expected back later in the evening so I went hunting. Donning my robes, my weapons belt and boots I made my way into the forest. The crunch of sticks under my feet relaxed me as I stalked across the tree branches, I felt empowered, like a predator. I scanned the area just to avoid any red coats, I stalked across spotting some deer resting. Perfection. I withdrew an arrow from my quiver, pulling it back against the string as my arm shook. My eye squeezed together as I took my aim, allowing my grip on the arrow to go. It plunged into the deer's chest as it let out a squeal which alerted it's fellow species of danger. The others ran off, leaving me to swoop down and take my kill. I stripped the deer of its skin and harvested the remaining meat and useable furs. I climbed back up into the trees as I made my way back, sweat was dripping off me. I jumped down from the trees spotting a river in which I could drink from in peace. This dreaded heat was killing me, I quickly undone a few buttons of my blouse. I placed my hands into the water as flung it to my face to cool me down. I suddenly heard a few whistles behind me, I whirled round. Red coats..
"Hey, sweetie! Come give us a good time!" They were cat calling me? Oh god..
"Go, you foul things!" I shouted over to them, of course they couldn't tell when a woman had said no. They all started walking over didn't they? "I'm warning you all, I wouldn't come any closer"
They of course kept walking towards me. I drew out two long swords as I slashed a gapping 'x' into one of the soldier's chests. "WHY YOU LITTLE!" They began to shout at me, insults filled with venom.
"I warned you.." I hissed, waiting for them to come close. A huge man, double my size swung an axe above him as he made his way over to me. I rolled to the left as he plunged the axe into where I would have been if I was stupid enough not to move. I slashed across the back of the man's ankle, rolling over once more as he stumbled. I sweep my feet under his and slammed my knife into his chest. I flipped myself upwards with my arms and kicked another soldier in the chest as a result. One tried holding me in place whilst another prepared to aim, not today. I leaned forward flipping the man behind me forwards as the other soldier shot his companion and died when my dagger hit him in the neck. The last one, the one I had kicked in the chest grabbed my arm and punched me straight in the nose, I could feel my nose cracking and breaking under his touch. I stumbled back as I withdrew my pistol and shot him point blank in the skull. I placed the pistol back in the holster of my belt as I breathed, desperate for oxygen in my lungs. I clutched my nose as I made my way back to the Manor.
I walked back, my head pounding and my mood heating up like the blasted weather. Basically, I'm in a foul mood. The broken nose wasn't helping it either, more souring it if anything. I kicked open the front door, pissed as can be I went into the kitchen and wet a rag by the sink. I clutched my nose with the wet, cold rag; the feelings of it made me sigh lightly. It was starting to feel better so much better, I officially love water. I heard shuffling behind me, I glared over my shoulder, Achilles.. why my god why? "I suppose you think kicking open my door is a clever way of releasing your frustrations?" He snapped, swatting his cane against my shoulder blades.
I turned fully towards him, taking the rag from my face as blood still dripped down my face. I mumbled at him, "Some bloody red coats couldn't take no for an answer and one broke my nose" I could smell so much blood and it was terrible. It lingered within my nose as I nearly heaved with the overwhelming scent.
"Do you know how to fix it, child?" Achilles eyes flashed to worry for a moment.
"Yes, I fixed a few noses before.." This was going to hurt. I washed the rag out and squeezed it as I bought my hand towards my nose.
I winced, the pressure of my hand hurt my throbbing nose. I was going to get bruises no doubt about it, I held onto the counter as my hand cracked my nose back into place. I screamed, the pain exploding like a bullet through my nose, I sucked in air through my mouth to calm myself. "Son of a bitch...motherfucker!" I swore in Russian as I pulled the rag to my face as the coolness gave me some relief. I growled in the back of my throat in frustration, Achilles stared at me slightly concerned.
"Erm.. Connor will be back soon, put a nice dress on and go down to the docks" Achilles ordered. I rinsed out the bloody rag as the bleeding finally ceased, I quickly washed my face whilst I registered what Achilles had said. Sorry, did he say dress?
"Sir, why can't I wear my 'usual' clothes instead of a dress?" I asked carefully, I wasn't going to get swatted with that damn cane. Again.
"This country may be independent but it doesn't mean we have any rights, plus no one knows you're an assassin. Don't cause suspicion" He used his cane to indicate upstairs before using the cane to shove me out of the kitchen. "There's dresses in the trunk under your bed, just pick one. Don't ask questions"
"Why is Connor coming back early anyway?" I started walking upstairs as Achilles swatted his cane on my shoulder as I cringed.
"What did I just say?" He scowled and shuffled away.
"God help me.." I muttered as I reached my room and opened the door. Stepping over to the bed and crouching to pull out an old trunk. The trunk itself was leather and beautifully made, I caressed it as I smiled, lifting the lid to see my choice of dresses. It was too hot for my blue velvet dress so cotton dress here I go.
I pulled out the first one I saw. The blue colours fascinating me, it had a simple corset like all of the dresses but the actual dress was a different story. The material was a lovely light blue, like a beautiful morning sky without a cloud; the sleeves stopped at the elbows and the low neckline spilled with white lace trims. The skirt was simple, same colour blue like the top half but beautiful white and blue threads had been sewn into it creating wonderful patterns which would make any seamstress cry in envy. This was the one for me.. but why did Achilles have dresses? Oh. His wife.. It's not the thought I could wearing a dead women's clothes that bothered me it only bothered me because I didn't feel deserving of his loved one's clothes. Amazing clothes might I add.
I shook off my weapons belts, laying them upon my bed as I threw my leggings and blouse off my body. I left my robes on the headboard of my bed. Damn this heat..I quickly slipped on the corset, tightening it as much as I could. I never wore a corset much so I wasn't as small as most of the Russian girls let alone any girl anywhere. I hooked my arms through the dress and buttoned it up, the dress covered my feet so I keep my leather boots on. I looked in the mirror, contemplating whether to keep my hair up or take it down? I took the leather tie out and shook my brown locks out as they tumbled down my chest. Definitely down. I brushed it out and looked down at myself. "Holy Mother of Jesus.." I quickly groped my breasts before rubbing my forehead with shock, "This dress makes my breasts look huge?! I could take someone's eye out with these jeeez!"
After getting over my size, I looked at my weapons, I'll take my daggers just in case; I strapped them to my thigh. Hoping I wouldn't have to flash somebody just to then attack them, at least they'd die happy unless it's a woman? Oh god, stop thinking such weird things Rozalina..
I shut the bedroom door, leaping down the stairs. I wasn't excited at all.. total lies, of course. I spotted Achilles in the lounge and popped my head in the doorway. I stepped into his view as he smiled at me with glee.
"Good choice, you look marvellous child" He clapped his hands together a few times. I fiddled with my fingers.. I didn't feel like I should be wearing these wonderful clothes.
"Achilles, are you sure it's okay for me to wear these wonderful clothes? I don't mind if you told me not to, I just don't want to intrude on anyt-" I started to rant and babble.
"Rozalina, they are of no use to me. I have no daughters to give such clothes to so they are yours. Wear them and feel proud child" I giggled and hugged him.
"Thank you, thank you!" I twirled around a little with such glee.
"Go get Connor, he'll be arriving soon" He shooed me off as I ran out the door.
I looked to the horizon of the ocean, I could see the Aquila coming in fast. I picked up the hem of the dress as I sprinted down the docks in such a hurry. The heat giving me trouble once again as I fanned myself whilst waiting. I could see Connor manning the ship, I used my hand to fan myself once more, calm it Rozalina. Damn, he did look good in a Captain's uniform; stop it, co-worker. He is your co-worker. Co-worker, co-worker. Co-worker... He's your co-worker, none of that Rozalina. I drilled the words into my head, repeating my almost retarded 'co-worker' routine in my mind.
The crew started to file out of the ship, whistling a bit when they saw me; I shooed them off. I hid behind my hand, concentrating on spotting Connor. They walked past me as they left the dock and I spotted him. Back in his usual robes, he strode down the docks, his face full of concentration and those god damn, sexy, dark eyes of his. Scanning the area like he was looking for someone? Who's he trying to find? His stride so confident, god damn he's so hot. Stop it, Rozalina! He walked past me, obviously not recognizing me. God damn you Connor. I lightly brushed my hand against his, he instantly turned as I grinned.
"I am sorry, I do not believe I know you, Miss?" He was polite to everyone except me. He was going to get such a beating for this when we have our match.
"I believe you owe me a sparring match, Connor" I wiggled my eyebrows, the realisation of who I am sparking in his eyes.
"Rozalina.. I am sorry I didn't recognize you" He blushed and patted my shoulder lightly.
"It's quite alright, probably my nose" I laughed at his confusion so I decided to explain. "I had a little fight with some redcoats whilst hunting this morning, ended up with a broken nose"
"Oh, are you feeling well? Achilles shouldn't have let you out otherwise" His concern was odd, grabbed my chin unexpectedly and inspected my nose. He let go when I flinched back at the contact, he's acting weird. He doesn't usually have any concern for me let alone check my injuries, he's been smoking something I know it.
"I am fine... Let's go shall we? You can tell Achilles and I about your trip later" I walked ahead, he caught up with me as we walked up the hill.
It was silent as we walked. I wanted to say anything but it'd all sound silly. This corset was not helping, how could girls deal with this thing; it was hurting like a bitch. Luckily, Connor broke the silence; he's definitely been smoking something he started the conversation?!
"Rozalina," I looked up at him, his eyes meeting mine. Those dark beautiful eyes, I could feel my heart racing. Stop it, Rozalina. CO-WORKER, HE'S YOUR CO-WORKER! "What did you get up to whilst I was away?"
"I did some hunting, fought off some redcoats and took one of the stallion out for some riding. I have to admit the horses here are beautiful" I smiled as I realised how much I loved this place.
"I am glad, after I have told you and Achilles of my mission we can spar?" He looked down and blushed. Dear god, don't be looking at my breasts. He coughed slightly, oh god he was! GOD DAMN IT ACHILLES?!
"Yes, I'd like that. Haven't trained for a while" I put my head down hoping he didn't realise how much I was blushing. We walked in silence for the rest of the walk to the Manor.
I opened the door, hearing Connor shut the door behind him with a soft click. I started up the stairs when I felt a tug on my sleeve, I turned to see Connor. "You- er erm y-you looked nice by the dock" He coughed, going bright red when I smiled back. He's had some weird tobacco for sure...
"Thank you, didn't look too bad yourself in your Captain's uniform, Captain" I winked before turning around and leaping up the stairs. I shut my door behind before realising what just happened. HOLY HELL...HE'S YOUR GOD DAMN CO-WORKER!?
I felt my chest beating like a drum. I took off my dress and corset opting back to my leggings and blouse before donning my robes and weapons. I pushed my hair up with the leather tie and left my room, softly shutting the door behind me. I could hear Connor and Achilles having a conversation about his trip until I heard my name mentioned. I stepped down the steps of the stairs lightly as I steadied myself outside the doorway and listened.
"Why did you let Rozalina meet me if she broke her nose?" Connor sounded rather pissed if anything, yeah he's definitely smoking some weird stuff.
"Because she can handle herself, Connor. She is not weak, she's proven that" Achilles sounded serious.
"I am not saying she is weak. I'm just.." He paused. Okay, he's been smoking or drinking something weird. Maybe I should announce myself?
"You care whether she dies or not?" My eyes widened. Well, excuse you..I'm not going to die.
"She's left her home to help us, of course I care... I'd feel respons-" Enough of this shit, I'm announcing myself.
I loudly stepped down the stairs and shouted "Connor! Are you with Achilles?" Popping my head round the corner and spotting them both, I faked relief. "Thought so"
"Connor was just telling me about his trip, why don't you two catch up while I go read a book" He shuffled away as I smiled. Inside I was screaming 'LIAR, LIAAAAAR!', you're a cruel, lying man Achilles.
Connor looked down fiddling with his gloves whilst he was sat down, I sat down opposite him waiting for him to tell me about his trip. "So?" I started.
"So what?" Connor looked up a tad confused. Those eyes, don't blush Rozalina!
"How was your mission you idiot?" I grinned at him. Them eyes though... god help me.
"Oh, er it was successful. Washington signed the Declaration of Independence, Samuel Adams was there and I told Washington of our organisation" He smiled inwardly, I'm glad he's proud of it.
"How did Washington take it all?" I leaned forward a bit, my elbows resting on each knee.
"He understood it all, he requested he meets you at some point. I told him to tell us if he needs us" Washington wants to meet me? WOOOHOO! To the top baby!
"I'm glad to hear, I hope you didn't tell him any bad things about me. I want to make a good impression on the President" I'm really shocked, the President wants to meet me? I can't wait till Alexei hears!
"Of course I would not do such a thing, I'm sure he'll like you" Connor seemed a little hurt. He doesn't know sarcasm I can see.
"Connor, I was joking! Hopefully he'll like me" I stood heading out the door. I turned, I looked over my shoulder at him. "Let's have our match"
OOOOOH I'm sorry it's been so late guys! I've started A levels so hard work for me. *dead inside*
Hope you liked it!