Music Inspiration: Nick Cave & Warren Ellis- "Memory" and Trevor Morris- "Skyhold"
The Wanderlust Bug
17 May 1774
Without Amelia or Ratonhnhaké:ton to talk to and confide in, Caroline began to feel empty. That, and itching to do something- the question was what though? It confounded her. Davenport offered endless freedom for her but it had grown too familiar for her adventure seeking mind. The lack of confidantes at the moment left her isolated and she wasn't left with many options. Her mother would be privy to too much private information of her daily on goings, particularly her romantic life, so she was not a viable option. Although she and Martha were sisters, they didn't have very much in common so conversation was often stale nowadays. The only Burnett left to fit the void would be Elizabeth, although younger, and the two were now sharing a bed now that Amelia was gone. Unfortunately, her parents did not want her following in her footsteps and Caroline was inclined to protect her safety at all costs.
Wandering the land alone or with her animal companions, she felt lonely as the world spun without her changing with time. Her day began at the house, changed to the mill every once in a while, and ended at home again. It had become an unchanging routine that no longer brought stimulation and Caroline slowly grew weary of it. She could have been doing more now that Martha and Elizabeth were older but instead, she had the same routine. Even her siblings were starting to take on new roles and their own adventures.
While she washed clothes at the river alongside her mother, she decided to bring up her question. Internal conflicts were never really good for anyone and her mother's advice helped.
"Mother, are you disappointed in me?" she asked faintly as she squeezed the soapy suds out of a dress. The daily chores she had done since childhood had become second nature and completing them was disappointing to her. She could be earning a wage somewhere by washing!
That surprised Catherine completely and she wiped sweat from her brow to ask, "Why on earth would I be?"
"I'm eighteen, unmarried, and haven't found a decent profession- I'm well on my way to being a spinster" she murmured softly to the main worries dwelling in her mind, especially at night. Elizabeth was younger by five years and she was already undertaking the same chores she completed. Yet, she was stuck with no meaning or direction in life.
"Carrie, you've been helping your papa quite well" her mother comforted since she was happy to keep her children at home now that they were financially stable. That had been her worry as she raised five girls- the inability to make a decent living often had young women marrying early to lighten the burden. Rinsing clothes in the stream, she pointed out, "We don't care if you decide to be a spinster as long as you're safe and happy. Your help at home and around Davenport has been good enough for me."
"But the business is fine now, he doesn't need me anymore" she stated frankly since four years made a difference and they had enough workers to support the mill. She didn't need to run around performing small jobs to balance the work load for the new business. Her father and uncle had built a solid foundation and they were now growing. She scrubbed at a brown stain with a hard bristle brush and murmured dejectedly, "I should be productive at my age."
"Well, unless you're ready to marry Connor" her mother suggested with a pointed look and Caroline blushed with a shake of her head. Unless her child was ready to marry and make a home, there weren't many choices of professions in society. Knowing her oldest tended to shy away from popular crafts, she suggested, "Well, what about being a seamstress? A maid? Farmhand? I definitely know it won't be teacher."
Caroline frowned since none of those careers appealed to her and Catherine pointed out gently, "You see, darling? This is all this land can offer at the moment. The only alternative you have when you no longer wish to be with us is marriage. We don't need you to provide for yourself, Caroline, so why must you dig yourself into a hole?"
"You worked when we were young-"
"Carrie, we were poor folk then and I had to unless I wanted to risk starvation" she reminded gently about the dark times in their lives. Working for meager earnings while leaving her little ones at home had been heart wrenching for her and it was the reason she put her foot down on securing a homestead. Wringing the clothes over the water, Catherine kept on working and continued, "Our hardships have ended for the most part and you've pulled your own weight here to never worry my mind. Amelia found something she wanted to do but when she finds a suitor, her time in the workplace will end too. This is the way society is run and it's incredibly rare to find a hardworking woman who is unmarried, they are often widowed in those circumstances. Usually, businesses will be under the man's name but you can make a name for yourself either way with your goods."
"But what if you feel that drive inside but you don't know what it is?" Caroline asked worriedly because she wanted to roam the countryside and explore the world. She didn't find interest in books like Amelia and wanted to see the places she'd read about firsthand. However, she doubted her parents would be fine with her setting sail over the Atlantic Ocean.
"And you're sure that drive isn't tending to a home with a certain young man?" her mother asked with a mischievous eye but Caroline disagreed. She had no inkling to begin a life with him as of yet due to that loss with her identity. He fulfilled part of that lifelong goal by being her partner but she still needed to find her skill. What could she do to leave her mark in the world?
Catherine sighed softly because she would've preferred her oldest to settle down and have little children. She already had a wonderful man in waiting and the two would accomplish more together than separate. Unfortunately, she couldn't force her child to do anything against her will and supported her, "We love having you here and it's a blessing some women of your age don't have. As long as you are safe and happy, I will support you."
She bit her bottom lip at the thought of appearing ungrateful because if she was a poorer girl, she'd be in the streets selling goods. Doing so in the winter one time with her mother had been enough for her. Amelia was right in not wanting to return to that old life and she replied solemnly, "I know, mathair, but I need to know what my calling is. I feel I have one . . . I just don't know what it is exactly."
"Well, if it's not children and teaching- you've started to narrow it down at least" her mother pointed out warmly to settle Caroline's worry and the young redhead managed a half-hearted smile.
Hesitant, Caroline divulged some of her thoughts aloud to gauge her mother's reaction, "Do you wonder if boban's wanderlust transferred over to us?"
Catherine's lips twisted into a smirk as she stated matter-of-factly, "When I look at you, Eliza, and Sam, there's no doubt in my mind that it did."
Her featured turned stern the next second because she didn't want her daughter to think the world was safe at every corner. She would give both sides of every coin to her children and pointed out, "There is glamour and excitement in traveling new lands for the first time. Otherwise, novels would not be sold if adventures were boring. However, as the wife of an outdoorsman, I did not carry that taste in my blood for very long. You need shelter, food, and warm clothing to survive in this world and there wasn't a day I didn't worry either of us could become sick and perish or attacked by robbers or wildlife and that would be our end. That life is not for everyone and it is certainly not safe when you have a family."
That was quite the viewpoint for Caroline because wild untamed land was only meant for animal, not human, habitation. She trusted her mother's judgment due to her life experiences and replied softly, "You have a valid point, mother."
"You're capable of making your own choices now but be wise with them" she advised gently with a motherly smile and began to soap another set of clothing for washing. Caroline quickly returned to work by pulling out her own set of clothes to wash and Catherine chuckled, "Now then, let's carry on before it all dries in the baskets."
Ratonhnhaké:ton wrung his hands together as he peered at his partner and asked softly, "So I will come around four to escort you tomorrow?"
Caroline grinned to his bashful tone and pulled him away from the doorway before he became a ball of nerves. The darkening sky as dusk settled into night helped to conceal his fretting around her family. Gripping his hand, his tense muscle tone relaxed under her touch and she agreed, "Of course, we'll have a nice picnic overlooking the cove."
Courting her publicly had brought a new sense of nervousness whenever Caroline's parents were near. Asking her for a private outing in their vicinity was even worse, especially after bringing her back from one. He didn't want to take her away from home too often but Caroline assured her parents understood his schedule. He could hear Alice and Elizabeth giggling even now as he exited the house, clearing his throat awkwardly, "Yes, that sounds good."
She cupped his face in her hands and doted caringly, "You fight wildlife without fear yet my parents unnerve you. My family adores you so don't fret, my dear."
Pressing her nose to his affectionately, she kissed him on the lips and smiled, "I will see you soon so have a good night."
She always managed to calm his heart when he was nervous or worried and today was no less. He nodded quietly as she took care of the planning out of his hands and embraced her in farewell. She squeezed him by the shoulders with a warm smile as she indulged being in his arms. They had to take advantage of the time they had before he had to leave Davenport again.
Pressing her lips to his one last time, she pulled back with a confident smile, "One more for the road."
He blushed to the open affection and released her before Catherine decided to shoo them apart with a stick. With the twinkling stars peeking out overhead, her motherly eye was naturally tuned to the youngsters outside. Waving in farewell, Caroline watched him depart for a few seconds before turning around to head inside. Catching her mother's gaze instantly, Catherine broke away and scuttled further inside the home under the premise of sweeping the floor.
"Mother, are you chaperoning our goodbyes?" she laughed with glee to her motherly protection and sought her mother by entering the home.
Ratonhnhaké:ton wandered back towards the manor with an unabashed smile as the evening sky concealed his features. He felt like a bee drunk on nectar every time he left Caroline and having her aid in cleaning the horse stables earlier before their outing helped. As he walked the usual route home, he stopped when he caught sight of Warren's homestead.
By nighttime, most residents were either indoors or sitting on the porch of their home. He noticed an individual circling the property and he approached them cautiously with the attempted robbery of the Burnetts fresh in his mind. The residents of Davenport would not have their homesteads jeopardized under his watch.
"Connor!"
The voice in the distance settled his unease as Warren bounded up to him, his face creased with worry. Behind him, a medium-sized gray-brown dog of the family followed obediently as he sniffed for a scent. After the Burnett's break-in, a guard dog had become second nature for everyone. Ratonhnhaké:ton figured there was a reason to his pacing around the property and wondered what had happened. He didn't even have a chance to ask as Warren wasted no time, "Thank god you're here, Prudence is missing!"
His neighbor was missing?!
He nodded so his friend could continue and Warren pointed towards the west, "She went out to gather some things this morning and never returned. I'm worried sick, what if she's hurt?"
There was no question as to what Ratonhnhaké:ton would do and stated with certainty, "I will find her."
Warren motioned to the dog, who gazed expectantly at the two men, and suggested, "The dog might help track her down, he has a good nose."
Together, they headed in the direction Prudence had left in the morning to find clues to her whereabouts. Ratonhnhaké:ton was the perfect picture of focused concentration as he studied every foot of the forest while Warren was a worried husband first and foremost. The oncoming night was not helping them as Warren pushed branches out of his way and sighed aloud, "She has been gathering Evening Primose almost every night. She is obsessed with the oil it yields."
He shook his head to the hobbies of his wife, especially when her safety was concerned, and stated, "This is all going to stop now. I don't understand why she wants so damned much of the stuff!"
After running up an incline over the first hill on the property, the dog bounded forward when he caught the scent of his owner. He was quick to bark to the men as he circled an area with broken ground. Ratonhnhaké:ton leaned down to observe the spot, noticing the disrupted earth and broken twigs. A human sized indentation told him it was a fresh footprint as well.
"She was here."
The clue spurred Warren onwards to find his wife and he exclaimed, "She can't be far! We should split up to cover more ground."
Ratonhnhaké:ton wasn't certain about separating in the growing darkness but Warren headed to the left with his dog in tow. The young man shook his head at being divided in the search, particularly because of the time. He'd have to keep his ears open for every noise now to ensure the safety of everyone.
He found his next clue in a bush further north as white fabric stuck to a bare branch, torn from the garb it belonged to. Whom it belonged to. Only the farming couple treaded into this area of Davenport but he had scoped every inch of the land during his youth. The north carried more dangerous wildlife and he was insistent that nobody tread west either due to the wolf packs that dwelled there. Why had Prudence risked it?
Within a few more steps, he caught sight of an object on the floor and approached it quickly. After years of frolicking in the forest, he knew natural creations versus manmade objects.
A satchel!
He knew the white satchel with the bright red flowers embroidered on it anywhere. It was Prudence's! She was the only one who used vibrant colors with her accessories. He turned the small bag over for any further clues but only dirt stains covered the fabric, yielding nothing of importance. She had dropped it, that was certain, but why?
It's not heavy at all and she could've struck something with it for protection-, his mind wondered but paused a second later.
The sound of wood splintering and a growl was another reason he cautioned the northern lands: the presence of bears. With haste in his steps, he ran through the forest to pinpoint the origin of the sound and it wasn't long before he found both the owner and Prudence.
"Connor, help!"
Prudence lay on the ground as the bear had cornered her against one of the small hills of Davenport. He noticed she limped as she attempted to crawl away and instantly called to the large brown bear to gain its attention. Her safety came first and he needed to drive the creature away before it decided to maul her before his eyes.
The bear stopped its aggressive roaring towards the frightened farmer and turned when a sharp pain entered its side. Ratonhnhaké:ton frowned slightly since arrows were far better at damaging in abundance compared to a tomahawk but he'd left them at home for his visit to the Burnetts. The bear's beady black eyes met his as he stood between the trees and Ratonhnhaké:ton debated whether or not to kill it.
Due to their current location, this is where he allowed wildlife to roam free since his residents were far from it. On one hand, he did not want to have it tread close to Davenport and have someone injured or worse. On the other hand, the residents shouldn't be traveling alone to the deep woods in the first place. He didn't know if this was a female bear protecting nearby cubs or a territorial male.
And so he made his choice, "Prudence, I am going to lead this bear away and I want you to find Warren. I will return as quickly as I can."
"Connor, you can't-"
Hollering at the great bear, he made himself the bigger threat in comparison to Prudence and approached it to show he wasn't afraid. The bear reared back slightly before growling at him with threat but he wouldn't relent, daring to reach for its snout. Instantly, the bear lurched forward and Ratonhnhaké:ton began to lead it deeper into the woods away from his residents. It chased after him but paused at the tree line as it remembered Prudence, his first target.
Ratonhnhaké:ton broke a branch from a nearby tree and prodded the bear directly in the face to snatch its gaze back. Similar to humans, bears didn't appreciate being prodded either and it growled with fury to his audacity. He was probably the first man in history to intentionally aggravate a bear, along with being the first to be chased through a forest at night.
He was putting himself at great risk for other dangers by yelling at the bear to drive it deeper into the forest. Wolves, bobcats, and worse (mountain lions) delved in the interior and all of their eyes were keener than his. On the ground, at least. When all he could see was the light of twilight peeking at him from atop the trees, he knew he was in their world.
When the growling of the bear grew fainter to tell him that there was decent space between them, he gave one last beckoning call. With that done, he headed east to lose the track and climbed the nearest tree to remove his scent from the forest ground. Using his unique vision, he traveled over the thick branches that created a beautifully intertwined traveling system for him within the forest.
It wasn't long before both the bear and the twilight sky were gone behind him and he descended to set foot back in Davenport. His first spot to investigate was the place he left Prudence and he found her several yards south as she sat on a rock, tending to her leg. Her hands covered her lower left leg as she used the end of her blue skirt to compress the skin.
Kneeling next to her, he observed if she was injured elsewhere and asked, "Prudence, are you all right?"
"The bear got a slash at my ankle but the cuts aren't deep, thankfully" she informed him with a wince as she removed the skirt away from the wound. He could see four dark gashes in the dim lighting but they weren't deep enough to require stitching. It hadn't allowed her to get far but she wasn't about to leave her rescuer, explaining worriedly, "I've been calling you and Warren. Why did you have that bear chase you, Connor?"
"To protect you" he pointed out easily as if anyone risked their life on a daily basis. To him, it was the honorable thing to do and he added in, "And the bear in case it had cubs. It seemed the best choice rather than killing it needlessly."
She smiled softly for his choice in saving both lives and spoke, "You have a good heart, Connor."
"I will carry you back home and we'll fetch Warren along the way" he stated softly as he wrapped an arm under her knees and another on her back. He could hear Warren in the distance so he would meet him as quickly as he could before he ventured deeper into the forest. He had chased that bear away and hoped both the residents and bear would stay in their respective areas now.
Prudence smiled faintly through the stinging pain and spoke gratefully, "Thank you so much, Connor. I don't want to think of what might've happened if you'd not arrived. I saw some primrose in the area and gathered them."
He didn't know anything about that specific herb and asked with confusion to its importance, "Why are you gathering primrose?"
She hesitated on the reasoning due to its delicacy but it wasn't every day that a neighbor risked their life against a bear. The young man had helped her family tremendously since meeting and she admitted, "Well, Warren and I have been trying to conceive a child for a long time now. I read that evening primrose encourages fertility and . . ."
When she saw the lightest flicker of awkwardness in his gaze, she paused and apologized quickly, "I'm sorry, this is not a proper conversation given the circumstance."
She often forgot he was younger than he appeared and did not want to fluster the young man with mature topics. He was still discovering the world and had begun his own relationship (Catherine had spilled the beans to the women during their meetups) so there was much for her friend to learn. Ratonhnhaké:ton was quick to honor the need for privacy and acknowledged, "I understand, not another word on the matter."
Prudence smiled kindly for his respect on the topic, "Thank you, Connor, for everything."
A dog's bark went off nearby and Prudence whistled to let her dog know she was near. In less than a minute, the familiar gray dog bounded in with a worried yelp for his owner and Prudence chuckled, "I'm all right."
Warren wasn't far behind since he'd heard the call of his wife and his face broke into relief at seeing her safe. Her hands sought him for comfort to their reunion and Ratonhnhaké:ton transferred her into her husband's arms. Quickly, the farmer scanned his wife from head to toe as he asked, "Are you all right, my love?"
"I'll be fine, thanks to Connor" Prudence dismissed with a wave of her hand and smiled with reassurance, "Just a few cuts and bruises."
"I can send Mrs. Galloway if you require aid" he offered nonetheless because he had the resources available. If he could help his neighbors in any way, he would.
Prudence shook her head since she liked taking care of things herself and smiled, "Oh, I've had my share of animal scuffles. I'll recover just fine but thank you."
25 May 1774
Caroline felt restless with the passing weeks and when Martha began journeying to Boston with her father, it poked her at seeing everyone was passing her by. Her catches could only be sold in town by her father due to her gender and she couldn't afford boarding on her own in Boston by being a seamstress. Her current homemaking skills pertained to sewing, cooking, and helping in a mill so not a lot of options were open to her. Adding in that she was a woman, half of those limited options closed shut. There was one alternative poking her in the back whenever she walked through town and given her desire to explore the unknown, she jumped upon it.
She had her father's gumption so it was better to ask and receive a 'no' than be left wondering about what could have been. With that in mind, the young woman strode onto the platform that led to the Aquila. Her leather shoes made no sounds against the wooden board but curious looks were sent her way from the men on the dock. They didn't expect any of the residents to be that far out in the cove but Sophia made quick work of the distance for Caroline. The top deck was void of its usual activity now that the crew was on shore leave but she spotted the second in command right away near the mast.
Aiming to prove herself, she strode forward with her head held high and asked aloud, "Mr. Faulkner, who here can teach me to use a sword?"
Faulkner blinked with surprise to who stood in front of him, never expecting a young lady to stand on the deck of the Aquila. He remembered seeing the redhead once during the reconstruction of the Aquila but her father sent her home for her safety. Back then, she'd barely reached his chest and now she matched his height. The redheads of Davenport belonged to one family alone and knowing the captain of the ship was keen on the oldest, it didn't take long for him to put two and two together. He hesitated on asking why she was there in the first place, "Eh, Ms. Burnett-"
"Pardon my manners, I forgot to add the good afternoon and please" she added in with a quick nod to maintain politeness. Mother always said to show the utmost respect but knock around heads when ears turned deaf. Looking to the great white sails that were currently tied down, she continued, "I am here because I'd like to know more about what you encounter in your voyages and your styles of fighting."
His face didn't hide the bewilderment to her request because he expected inquiries about Ratonhnhaké:ton. His captain had been clear on what he would rehearse to her to keep their business hidden. How was he supposed to answer this? She had gumption, he'd give her that. On one hand, he didn't mind regaling old tales upon new generations but this was a young civilian woman, not to mention his captain would undoubtedly have a few words with him about it.
"Ms. Burnett, the docks is no place for a young lady like yourself- much less fighting and sea voyages" he declined with reason to her uncommon request. It was a rarity for women to desire fighting skills and sending a Burnett child home with a black eye would bring forth an angry parent and an annoyed Achilles.
"Mr. Faulkner, you'd be surprised to how many rules of etiquette I break daily" she stated with an amused smile to her behavioral quirks, "I've realized that although there is danger in almost every corner of this land, I want to explore it. In order to do that, I need to be capable of survival- hence, why I am here. Connor leads a strong ship and that tells me you're all capable on your own to hold the Aquila together."
She knew she was pushing the limit and reasoned, "I can hunt, wield an axe, and shoot a gun, and I've no issue with that. However, swords and hand to hand fighting is unknown to me. I will repay any teachings by working on whatever repairs the Aquila needs. I'm the child of a lumberjack so I know my way around wooden repairs."
"Your parents and Connor will have my hide for this if I even dared" the second-in-command declared to the idea of three angry people chasing him out of the cove. The fact that all three were familiar with weapons, one being a skilled assassin, did not give him good odds.
"You let me worry about that" she assured confidently with flippant wave of the hand. It was worth risking their ire for learning the skills she required. The fork in her life was demanding a decision soon and she stated firmly, "I know the concerns and risks but my need to sate this wanderlust is stronger. Whatever consequences may occur, they will be on my shoulders- nobody else's."
"Connor's quiet but he's a silent storm brewing once he's mad" Faulkner reminded since the two youngsters were known for advising each other. If one didn't deem an activity safe, there would be a discussion. Oddly enough, it had always formed around Caroline rather than the assassin.
Her brow rose with curiosity to his playing card and she smiled, "I can handle Connor, we Scots are a tenacious bunch. I'm not leaving and if you feel the need to have me escorted out, I will be here tomorrow again and every day after until you say yes."
The girl drove a hard bargain and when she pointed out, "I'm sure you had to prove your worth to board this vessel and so will I."
Well, maybe the Aquila was ready to train a lady.
5 June 1774
Ratonhnhaké:ton was not the type to surprise easily but when he heard hooting in the back near Faulkner's cabin, he paid it no mind. His sailors entertained themselves on land and never caused a ruckus in Davenport so he had no worries. However, when he heard a familiar voice yell 'now' and gunshot echoed- he paused. He assumed he misheard the feminine tone and turning around towards the shore, he almost balked at what he witnessed.
Caroline stood at the front in her hunting attire as she held a rifle and handed it back to one of men, "That one is a beauty, Campbell. It's an honor just to wield one, where'd you get it?"
"Got it down in Georgia."
"Furthest I can go is Boston-"
"Caroline, what are you doing here?!"
Ratonhnhaké:ton intervened with disbelief clear on his face because he knew her parents would be upset to find her far from home. He never covered the distance between them as fast as he had then, just to double check that it was indeed her. Caroline braced herself since his voice grew sharp by the end of the sentence, not to mention in volume for the first time. Everyone on the shore quieted down as their captain approached them and they all took steps back to get out of there as quickly as possible.
"Learning, I have knack for it" she smiled unabashedly and grabbed a rifle from a nearby table to check the chamber for bullets. After watching her father make bullets at home and assisting him, she had no problem helping the men craft them to pay for the lessons. She was right in assuming he would be worried about her actions and avoided his gaze for a moment to regather her strength. Confidence was key in convincing him and she reasoned, "I deemed it was time to learn new skills and expand my horizon. The world is changing, growing, and we should too."
His face shifted to dismay to what she picked as her newest hobby (why couldn't it be gardening?!) and reminded sharply, "Your parents were strict about you not wielding a gun-"
"And I am old enough to make my own choices and I choose to do so" she intervened as the two butted heads over her decision for the first time. The remaining sailors on shore glanced between the two since nobody really stood up against their leader for more than a minute under his glare.
His lips were thinned in a line as he stated firmly, "Weapons are not to be taken lightly."
"I'm not which is exactly why I'm learning to wield them" she justified since her family used weapons for sustenance and protection only. She would be using the lessons for that as well for both plans brewing in her mind. Her father had always taught her to have a backup plan to every original plan.
His tense shoulders, firm gaze, and the lack of his usual low tone told her he was not happy. She wanted him to encourage her curiosities but it appeared she'd reached the limit. He had allowed her freedom on many things but it appeared this one would not be passing by him. Placing the loaded rifle back on the table, she questioned quietly, "You're disappointed, aren't you?"
"It doesn't matter what I think" he stated but she could see it in his eyes clear as day. What he wasn't saying, his body language was depicting it.
Her voice grew quiet to keep their conversation private and she suggested, "If you're not comfortable with me being here, I will leave."
He wanted to abide by her parents' wishes to stay safe within the confines of Davenport and stated quietly, "You should be at home, Caroline."
Well, that settled matters then. She would've thought he'd understood since he wasn't able to share the same opportunities in society as well. Didn't he want her to break free and explore in the same manner as everyone else? She wanted him to push her onwards like she did with him.
She closed her eyes for a brief moment to subdue the hurt and murmured, "I see."
"Carol-"
"Thank you for the time, gentlemen, but I must bid you goodbye" she said aloud as she nodded to each for their help and left the area as another door closed in her face. She would have to grow a thick skin to rejection for the years to come but it wouldn't bring defeat. No, it would bring defiance to achieve the impossible and she thanked them, "I appreciate the lessons and will carry them well."
It was hard not to feel lost as she walked away but she kept her head high and maintained her calm facade. A lady should not show anything else but Caroline kept pushing that boundary every day. She was struggling in deep waters to figure out her road ahead and the one she expected to guide her was blocking the path.
Ratonhnhaké:ton looked to Faulkner with a protective 'we'll talk later' glance as his second stood near the dock. The older man sighed with resignation as the young man chased after his partner and knew he'd get a lecture later (and hopefully not hurled overboard). Ratonhnhaké:ton caught up to her since he'd never expected to find her there of all places and questioned protectively, "Why were you there? You know your parents aren't keen of that."
That and I cannot have you overhearing anything related to the assassins, he thought worriedly to the idea of her discovering who he really was.
"Well, I was keen of it" she stated simply she walked the dusty road back home to fetch her loyal Sophia. She could feel his eyes on the back of her head and refrained from turning around to shake him for not letting her do as she wished. Well, she doubted it was possible when he was built like a brick wall but still. Ratonhnhaké:ton had a harder time keeping chase when she wore breeches than standard dresses and heard her call out, "I will abide by all of your wishes and you'll see me far away from here."
"Caroline, you've acted so erratically lately- are you all right?" he asked concerned as he noticed her restlessness and sullen glances over the land as if waiting for something. It worried him but what could he do? He grasped her by the elbow to halt her fast pace and she turned around immediately with an anxious face. He met her wide gaze to remind her he was there and beckoned gently, "Please confide in me, you always can. We promised each other to always be honest."
She hesitated to answer because if she did, he would not be fond of her ideas.
"I'm not . . . this isn't what I want with my life" she admitted faintly as her brow furrowed and she looked to the clear blue sky, "I love Davenport but I'm not a child anymore and I need to find who I am."
"You're Caroline" he supplied as he tried to help but it was an internal struggle he couldn't fix. He took her hand into his to offer support and she smiled forlornly. Bless his heart, he always tried his best to keep her happy even when they disagreed. She embraced him tightly to have that support because she wanted to travel by his side if she could. It was what she hoped for as the days drew them closer and if that wasn't possible, the other road would be a lonely one.
"Ratonhnhaké:ton, you've found your purpose but I feel so lost" she confessed woefully to the one she trusted most for his final input. His hold tightened when she buried her nose into the collar of his captain's coat and she pointed out, "I have to find what I am destined for like Amelia. I don't want to wake up one day and realize I wasted my life on nothing. I want my life to have mattered . . . just a little. I. . ."
She hesitated for a moment before raising her head to meet his gaze and dared to ask, "Would you be open to having me on the Aquila? I'd listen to all of your orders and I wouldn't be a slacker at working. I understand it would be an odd sight but I want to see the world and if I can do that with you, I'd be happy for the rest of my life."
He tensed immediately because having her onboard would risk exposing his whole second identity. If she discovered the truth, it could jeopardize their relationship as well and potentially fracture it. He wasn't ready nor had any idea on how to even breach the subject with her. Could she even accept his life as an assassin? As much as he would love to travel with her, he had to keep his identity safe and her own life as well. He couldn't risk that possibility yet, not until he eliminated his enemies.
"Caroline, I don't think that would be safe for you nor would your parents be happy" he answered carefully as gently as he could and her shoulders slumped. He felt her entire frame weaken to the verdict but it was gone a moment later. He understood he was ripping away a dream of hers and apologized, "I want you safe at home, at least for now. Maybe in the following year we can but not now. Please understand that my worry comes for your safety above all."
She nodded quietly as the news devastated the easiest goal she'd imagined but it served to activate the backup. The Aquila was his to captain and she would abide by it, even if it meant finding board somewhere else whether on land in a wagon or water by ship. She would not be Caroline, the resident of Davenport but someone else . . . hopefully someone better.
I can't stay here anymore, she realized because her only way to carve a path was to leave the safe nest of her home.
"You haven't wasted a moment, you have many years left and you're safest here" he disagreed since she was protected here against danger and illnesses from the colonies. He needed for her to be safe and once the world was a better place, he would be more than happy to have her join his travels. He embraced her tightly to shake away worries and kissed her temple to whisper, "I know you've struggled with catching due to your gender but your father's business is a good place for you."
"I thought so too but not anymore" she sighed softly as she craved more by exploring the world around her. His travel accounts were no longer enough to satisfy her hunger and she wanted to witness something with her own eyes. She wanted to ride horseback along the trails of the eastern coast, see herds of bison and wild horses gallop over the plains, collect wild flowers from all over the colonies, and many more things.
He wanted her to be happy at home, rather than feel it as a restraint, and suggested, "What about your sewing? You could open your own shop here, I could help support it."
"I sew because I need to, not because I love it" she disagreed with a look of distaste towards chores that brought no joy. She performed them to maintain a home but she wanted a profession to be proud of. At the moment, wanderlust was biting at her ankles and she muttered, "Besides, building and maintaining a business isn't easy when you're an unmarried woman."
He cupped her face to kiss her forehead with affection and promised, "I will marry you one day, Caroline, but neither of us is ready."
"I know that but I want to succeed on my own merit, just a little" she murmured softly with a warm smile to his vow and squeezed his shoulders fondly. There was no question in her mind that he was the man she wanted to share her life with but she needed to make her own footprint in the world first.
"You're safest here, what more can you need when you have a home and food?" he pointed out since her family had always been dearest to her. It was why he cared for her after seeing her dedication to each of them. She didn't reply because he had a point but a part of her mind told her that there was a void that still needed to be filled in her life. Whether it was adventure, a job, freedom- she didn't know.
"Go finish your work with the Aquila, I'll find my way home safely" she assured and released his hand to keep walking the trail. He wanted to walk her home all the way but it seemed she needed her privacy to dwell on her thoughts. Out of respect, he would grant her that.
"I will be leaving tomorrow on another expedition" he informed quickly and it was his way of saying they might not meet up again anytime soon. Caroline didn't want to leave on uncertain terms and wished him the best since sea life could be dangerous whether by mankind or the elements. If he would be leaving without her, she wanted to part on good terms.
She retraced her path back to him and drew him close by the collar for a kiss. Whether they agreed on her wanderlust or not, she loved him. His hands grasped her by the shoulder blades to keep her close as she deepened their kiss. There were times when she explored his mouth like an underwater cavern until he pulled away for air. This was one of those times as she wished him farewell.
Her cheeks flushed pink to her boldness but she wasn't ashamed by it, not when he was leaving. Her fingers brushed over his lower face to etch his face into memory, tracing every contour on his blushing skin as she smiled, "Do be careful and come back to us safe."
"I might be a little dazed after this for a minute" Ratonhnhaké:ton admitted since kissing her delighted him from head to toe and basked in that warm feeling. His brown eyes twinkled with happiness to their stolen moment of affection. She chuckled softly as he offered a soft kiss to her lips, widening her smile, and he promised, "Next time, I will catch you by surprise."
Caroline merely nodded because she wasn't sure if there would be a next time if her conflicting feelings won. All she could do was hold onto that promise and hope that he wouldn't be hurt by her choices. This would be her decision and she'd take full responsibility for the aftermath.
Due to that, she wasn't hesitant to admit freely with fondness, "Ratonhnhaké:ton, konnorónhkwa."
His eyes widened slightly to the declaration as he processed the words but a smile hitched at his lips. She always managed to strike his heart with his language and he cupped her face to press a kiss to her forehead. Her words made him feel as the luckiest man on the land that moment as she smiled at him. Enveloping her in his arms, he peered into her blue eyes and returned wholeheartedly, "And I love you, Caroline."
Caroline kissed his lips lightly as she restrained from hugging him like an old childhood toy. She was a lucky girl for having him in her life but it stung deeply at having to leave him. He smirked to her ladylike behavior since they were in private and joked gently, "You're holding back."
"Well, I'm not certain I could tackle you into the nearest tree and kiss you silly" she chuckled affectionately in regards to their physical differences and he chuckled softly. She couldn't even tackle a bobcat barehanded whereas he could take down a bear all on his own. A delighted yelp escaped her lips when he seized her by the hips and a shiver rolled down her spine when their eyes locked.
Her lips pulled into a cheeky grin when his nose brushed against hers and she teased, "I've never seen you behave so charmingly in the outdoors."
He joined her amused laughter, the sounds filtering into the background noise of the forest, and shifted his gaze towards his navy hat, "I think it's the uniform."
"I'm not complaining" she complimented with a wide smile and he captured her lips in return to the flattery. Gone were the light butterfly kisses as he cupped the back of her head and the curve of her lower back to keep her from budging. Her fingers combed into the hair at the nape of his neck, threatening to dishevel his neatly brushed hair.
She yelped with surprise when he was the one pinning her to the closest tree, breaking off their heated kiss. Well, someone was developing a daring streak. Adjusting herself against the rough protruding bark of the trunk, she murmured, "It looked better in my head than this true reality."
He smiled with amusement and she embraced him tightly, kissing the side of his neck as her fingers weaved into his hair. Heavens, he had the softest and darkest hair she'd ever touched. Time would be testing them but she whispered fondly against his warm skin, "I love you . . . I need you to know that. My love will not waver for you."
"I will return to you soon" he promised caringly as he returned the embrace, reluctant to leave her again. She appreciated his commitment and returned the sentiment in another kiss. If this was to be their last time together, she'd risk being in trouble for having cherry lips and any small love bites she couldn't hide.
When Ratonhnhaké:ton's lips traveled down her neck, that possibility increased.
10 June 1774
After days of contemplation, she had devised a plan that would allow her to escape unnoticed. She had aborted it the first day out of fear of the unknown but reminded herself that this was the best course. All others plans had failed and now, there was only one path left. After allowing her nerves to settle, she was ready.
It didn't take long to fill a pack with her clothing as she lied to Alice that she was going to clean the trunk the following morning. She had salted meat stored from saved catches and stole a few bread pieces when nobody had been glancing her way. When her father woke to head out for work, she lied to her mother stating she was going to help but headed south. It would've been easier to take Sophia but she would have nobody to house her in Boston and therefore, she would be safer in the stables. She passed the main trail and the O'Donnell house to find the lone trail that led uphill and towards Boston. The homestead had kept her safe for many years but coddled her too warmly in its bosom to protect her but she had to find her way.
It was a struggle not to cry like a little girl as she left her beloved home, remembering her joy upon seeing it. She had bid her family goodbye with none being wiser to her plans, earning a raised eyebrow from her mother when she'd added a hug. However, it was time she defined who Caroline Burnett was and found a foothold rather than be stagnant with nothing to show.
Elizabeth was the one to find the letter on the bed as she swept their bedroom for her chores of the day. Noticing an open letter, she picked it up to read who it was addressed to in order to return it. Though part of her was curious if she'd stumbled upon her sister's love letters. Or maybe it was one of Amelia's letters? By the end of the first sentence, she ran out of the room and brought it to her mother immediately.
Catherine was altering the girl's dresses for summer at the dining table and heard the rapid heavy footsteps. Looking to find her daughter running up to her, she lectured swiftly, "Elizabeth, I do hope there's a good reason for running in the house."
"Mother, you have to read this! It was on my bed!"
Elizabeth shoved the letter into her hands as her mother dropped the fabric to grasp it. She'd normally tell her children to wait but the tone in her voice led her to pause her work. Elizabeth could be dramatic but there was frantic worry in her eyes this time. Recognizing the thin cursive writing as Caroline's, she began,
Dear mother and father,
By the time you read this, I will be long ways down the road but I need you not to worry. I know that will be easier said than done but please hear me out. I have to figure out what my role is in this world and I will not find it in Davenport, no matter how much I try to convince myself. Amelia is gone and Martha is on the road to finding her own way but I've yet to find mine. As your oldest, I should've been the first to find it and provide an income for you. I have been feeling lost for many weeks and am off to explore this world to find my answers. I will write to you when I can and know that I love each of you very much. You will all be in my heart every step of the way and I will write to you again as soon as possible to ensure my wellbeing. It will not be an easy transition for any of us but you've taught me well in my eighteen years of life. I have attached a letter for Connor as well so I ask that he receive it for I know my leave will cause grief in his heart as well.
All my love, Caroline
Catherine was completely speechless to what she'd just read and reread the letter twice. Had her oldest child just run away?
"Martha!" Elizabeth beckoned her sister to the living area when she saw her mother turn pale. It wasn't often that she called Martha but with the frantic note in her tone, the older girl left her chore of churning butter in the lean-to of the house.
"Mother, I'm sure everything will be fine" Elizabeth attempted to calm her but she wasn't as good at this with others as either Amelia or Caroline. Boy, she was not the right recipient to find that letter. Catherine turned the letter around to see if there was anything else written that would give her information but it was left blank.
My little one left Davenport! How? Why? When?, When, she thought frantically since he'd bid her goodbye in the morning and everything seemed well. What did I miss?
Martha bounded into the room, expecting to see an overturned pot or something on the ground. Instead, she saw the two huddled at the table as her mother's hands shook while holding a letter. Had something happened? She was surprised to see Elizabeth worried since the girl never was and questioned, "What is it?"
"I . . . Caroline left Davenport" Elizabeth murmured weakly with disbelief as the oldest of their group had been whisked away without warning. For her, Caroline was her rock and role model whenever she was told her strong headed nature was wrong. Why had she left them? Her mother wasn't going to be releasing the letter anytime soon and she told Martha, "I need you to look after mother, I have to fetch someone to help look for her."
Martha tended to their mother to calm her down before she fainted from grief but Elizabeth took off out of the house to head for the white manor. If anyone could find her, it would be Connor. She doubted the two ran off together but it would either give her aid or more pieces to the puzzle. If he wasn't home, finding her father and telling him the news would fall to her.
She tried to calm her knocks on the door but failed from her own hopes that Caroline was still somewhere in town. She didn't want to believe her sister was gone and yelped in surprise when the door opened to reveal a curious Achilles.
Wasting no time, she asked quickly, "Is Connor home?"
"I'm sorry, Elizabeth, he's still south on the Aquila" Achilles informed regrettably since he often told this to the children over the years. His instinct told him something was amiss due to the tense posture of the girl and her disappointment at hearing the news. The children had yet to appear distressed before him and his parenting instinct kicked in, asking gently, "What is wrong, child?"
"Carrie, she's gone- I mean, she left and mama's distraught" she stammered frantically as the unexpected leave rattled them all. Her father was still at work and her mother was liable to faint at any moment. Martha would stay with her so it was up to her to take the reins and rally whoever she could to help. Clenching her fists to pent out her worry and disappointment in Carrie, she sighed softly, "I thought Connor could help us find her."
"Oh dear, I will go see if Mr. O'Donnell or the others heard anything" Achilles stated with disappointment to the situation and knew his student would not be happy at the news.
The search for Caroline yielded nothing as she disappeared into the wind and covered her tracks well. Catherine was worried out of her mind for her oldest and could not carry on her everyday chores for at least a week after the event. The smallest rattle from the wind gave her hope that her oldest had returned but it was in vain. It was hard not to think of what could be happening to her as conflicts had escalated with the British to open conflict and the wilderness was dangerous enough. Was she safe out there? What had gone through her mind to make such a decision? The fact that she had nowhere to board unlike Amelia had been the biggest concern. Godfrey had gone into town the day after she disappeared to find Amelia in case Caroline had sought her out but the second oldest knew nothing, keeping an eye out nonetheless.
A month passed when the first letter arrived as Catherine sorted through the mail since orders mixed with other mail. It was rare to receive letters in the colonies but every year or so she'd get letters from family back in Scotland. Due to their isolated community, they had their mail sent to the mill's business office in Boston since it was a bustling city. This time, she spotted the familiar handwriting of her child on an envelope and tore it open. Anxious to see what she'd written, Catherine opened the folded letter with hasty fingers.
Dearest family,
Please know it was never my intent to cause distress, I cannot stress that enough. I've been taught well by all of you to know better and have put all of my lessons to work since leaving Davenport. I have been honing my hunting skills and can proudly say I took down a buck in the forest a few days ago for food and trade. Due to my gender, it has been hard to find decent traders for my catches and have taken traveling to Boston to a particular trader Connor introduced me to. I have yet to see Amelia, her employer's house is far and I have to be on the road quickly to return home since I own no wagon or horse. I want to explore all that I can and have seen sights outside of Boston that I never deemed possible if I wasn't on my own. I'd never realized how hard it is to be on one's own but you taught me enough to get by. I do not know when I will return as I've been in two towns so far but I will continue to write to ensure you of my safety.
All my love, Caroline
It's marked from Boston, she thought but it was a slim chance Caroline was still there.
"Is that from Carrie?" Alice asked softly since they all missed her but Elizabeth had taken it the hardest. While Alice was happy to know about her sister's well-being and missed her greatly, Elizabeth avoided the topic completely. She felt abandoned by her sister and Catherine couldn't change her view on that.
"Yes, she's doing well and will send word when she can" she replied with a tight smile to prevent the worry from leaking through. She had to stay strong for her family and remain optimistic that her oldest would stay safe.
A knock on their front door put them on alert immediately, always clinging to the hope that Caroline would return. Martha, being the oldest in charge now, stood up from where she folded laundry and opened the front door just a smidge to see who it was. Recognizing the familiar brown eyes, tan skin, and black hair, she opened the door to allow them entrance.
Well, we'll either get answers or he's in for a sharp awakening, she thought solemnly and felt pity for him if it was the latter. She knew the two cared for each other and although she had reservations, this was not the way to discover a partner had left the other.
"Connor!" the children greeted with relief to see another resident return and he found himself surprised to the outburst. It increased when Samuel and Alice ran to hug him tightly and he returned it to his de facto family. Well, he could always count on them for an affectionate greeting when he sorely needed one. After assassinating his first target, it helped a lot. They led him into the house and he felt the atmosphere shift upon entering. The cheerfully warm home carried a different air today as everyone smiled but it failed to reach their eyes and brighten their eyes.
"Mama, Connor's here" Alice piped up excitedly with the hope that if anyone could put a search for her sister, it would be him. He'd saved them countless times so surely finding Caroline would be easy.
Catherine stood up to place a smile on her face but he noticed the circles under her eyes and she greeted, "How are you, dear?"
"Well, I brought a jar of molasses from a trip to the southern colonies" he informed softly and handed the brown jar to her as she thanked him for the kind gift. She didn't know how to begin telling him the news due to his affection for her daughter. Catherine felt regret and disappointment in her daughter for simply leaving without a word to the poor young man. That motherly protection for him rose when he asked sheepishly with a small smile, "Is Caroline nearby? I hoped to speak with her, I brought her calico fabric. The trader recommended it for her features and that women liked it since ribbons are more for children."
Catherine's face fell and it unsettled him immediately as she offered a seat at the dining table. Had something happened? He felt something amiss and hoped nothing had befallen the family. She sat down across from him and with a gentle motherly tone, began quietly, "There is something I must tell you, my dear boy."
She took a deep breath to tell him in the gentlest of manners and informed forlornly, "My Carrie's gone. She left the homestead one morning and hasn't returned . . . we've looked everywhere. I received a letter a few days ago but I don't know where she is."
He remained silent to absorb the shock and Catherine ran a hand over her forehead before continuing, "It was sad enough with Amelia departing but Caroline . . . oh, my Godfrey and Eliza are quite heartbroken. I'm sorry to have to tell you this as well, child."
Ratonhnhaké:ton looked to the children with disbelief and noticed their glum faces when their mother mentioned her. Caroline had undergone personality shifts since Amelia left and her longing for purpose apparently overpowered her duty at home. He'd left her alone to give her space to gather her thoughts but he never imagined she'd leave homestead. He still remembered her dozens of thank you's for her home . . . but she left them.
She left him.
He hoped to feel the painful loss of a loved one only once in his life but it appeared he was wrong.
"Did she mention anything to you before you left?" Catherine asked for any input about her daughter's thoughts last month. She had been deceived easily with smiles and innocent questions about the future. Her bond with the young man was strong so she hoped to have insight if she'd entrusted him with inner worries.
He shook his head quietly as he absorbed the news, feeling alone once more, and murmured, "No, nothing. All she said was that she wanted to find her calling but I never imagined she'd leave."
"I. . . .You have my heartfelt condolences" he sympathized somberly as the one he searched for after sleeping off a trip had gone into the wind without warning. He wouldn't see her again nor did he know where she could've gone. Was she safe? How could he find her? So many questions sprouted in his mind as her leave hurt him deeply. Catherine embraced the young man as his crestfallen face reminded her of Godfrey's upon learning the news. He returned the embrace with appreciation, lamenting the loss of his love and her daughter. As stoic as he could be with his features, the news hit hard and the pain threatened to surface onto his face.
No matter how much his own heart wept, a mother's love ran with the same strength and he asked, "Is there anything I can do?"
"We went to Boston and other towns but nothing" Catherine sighed softly as she appreciated his help and hoped their combined efforts would find her daughter. She ran a hand through her thick auburn hair as the worry never left for a second. Their resources had reached their limit in length and she admitted, "What else can we do? We don't have enough money for a long search but we placed advertisements in the paper. Hopefully, that will yield something. Godfrey has the mill and can't be gone for long, same for us at home. All I could do was have Amelia keep an eye out."
"I will help however I can" he vowed because he wanted her home as well rather than roaming dangerous streets. What would stop a thief from stealing her belongings? Or killing her? His return to Davenport was not as relieving as he thought it would be and looked to the roll of fabric in his hands. Caroline had been upset when he left and he knew she'd need a new dress for the upcoming season, hoping it would pacify their disagreement a month ago. Unfortunately, he had missed the mark on delving deeper into her worries and had simply used reassurance. Closure had been denied and he held out the roll to state quietly, "You can have this in Caroline's stead."
"No, I will save it for when she's home" she sighed softly with hope that she'd see her again. What else could a mother do? For his heart's sake, she squeezed his hands to encourage optimistically, "She'll come back to us."
He tried to keep his voice even as he kept his feelings at bay and asked, "Has she given any clues?"
"She heads to Boston every once in a while but what are the odds of finding her in that city?" Catherine asked worriedly since her own family wouldn't be enough to scout the city for a day, let alone a week. Migrating to the new world had meant leaving all of their families behind so they didn't have contacts that could help. Even Davenport's residents wouldn't be enough and half did not want to visit the cities anytime soon.
Ratonhnhaké:ton understood her reasoning but he had access to an all-around patrol of his own. He would give his assassins in training information about her and hopefully, something would pop up. She couldn't have disappeared into thin air and he would find her to return her home where she belonged.
"She left something for you" Catherine spoke gently with a sympathetic smile as she stood up. She had left the letter in a cupboard shelf in the main room, unopened to allow her child privacy. It was obvious to her that Ratonhnhaké:ton knew nothing of her intentions so they were both in the same boat.
She ushered her children outside for the moment to allow the young man some privacy. Samuel waved goodbye to his crestfallen friend and Ratonhnhaké:ton returned the action as they were ushered out of the home. A small envelope was given to him and he looked up to find Catherine smiling solemnly, "It's possibly the closest clue you'll have. I'll let you read it in privacy-"
"No" he interjected for the first time as he felt alone already without his other half and looked to her to request faintly, "I want my family beside me."
Catherine enveloped him in a hug as his hunched posture told her he was hurting already. Hopefully, the letter would not be exacerbating those emotions. Releasing him, she smiled with support, "I will be here every step of the way, my dear."
Like any mother, she held his hand in support while he used the other to hold the letter. He didn't want to open it, worried at what awaited him but he needed to have that last form of connection between them.
My dearest love,
If you're receiving this, then you have heard what has happened. I am sorry for embarking on this journey without alerting you but I know you would've attempted to stop me. If I could not gain acceptance into the Aquila, my hope to travel this land fell onto my shoulders to carry this out alone. I need to find myself in this world and know that I attempted something rather than remaining stagnant at home with nothing to show. It was not an easy decision but I will face the consequences. My actions will wound both of us in the process but my love for you is unwavering and will not change. You are a strong man, both mentally and emotionally, so I know you can carry on bravely before I return to you. However, I will understand if you are furious and never wish to see me again for what has happened. It was never my intent to hurt you but how can I not with this departure? You have taught me many things and I will put them to use on this journey. We might even meet on a crossroads one day but I want you to carry on with your work and adventures. I will return to you one day but know that I will always love you.
Always yours,
Caroline
"I will do my best to find her with my contacts, Mrs. Burnett" he promised firmly as he folded the letter against his chest, his fingers lightly shaking. It was not an easy read, knowing those would be the last words (on paper) from her end and he could say nothing. He knew nothing of her whereabouts or even where to start but he wouldn't let that deter him.
Catherine squeezed his hand with a small sigh to their circumstances but smiled warmly, "I'm sorry you came home to this but I'm glad you're safe, child. At least one of you came back home."
Ratonhnhaké:ton managed a small smile for at least having a family to return to. It was fractured but he'd do his best to heal that pain and find his partner. He was certain there would be myriad of emotions to come but for now, he would accept compassion to dull his pain.
"I'll always come home."
Caroline smiled with exhaustion as she peered over a scenic path overlooking the next town before her. The height was tall enough to peer over the green pines trees blanketing the ground as white buildings peeked in the center to form a crescent shape around the mouth of the Providence River. It was the first town she'd ever seen outside of Massachusetts since the day she began to live in Davenport.
"Welcome to Providence, Caroline" she smiled to herself as she stood over the hill overlooking the new town in Rhode Island. She could see the manmade dirt roads heading away from the river and the white sails of ships in the harbor.
Sleeping in the forest and traveling by foot in the day had not been easy but she'd managed. She'd learned well enough from Ratonhnhaké:ton and her father when working outdoors to avoid potential trouble. Knowing her family would head to Boston as the first city, she had gone to Revere to avoid detection the moment she sent her first letter. Even lingering to see Amelia was too risky.
From there, she had traveled to other cities surrounding Boston but this was her first time in another colony entirely. She was dozens of miles from home and although she was weary from traveling on foot, she couldn't wait to walk the platforms overlooking the river. Even from her spot overlooking the entire town, the water glittered with the consistency of spotless jewels or twinkling stars.
With one last look, she rejoined the trail as visitors on foot, horses, and wagons went on their way. It was time to begin a new journey and find her calling in the New World. If she could make enough to eat and hop on a boat or wagon for travel, she would make her dreams come true. It would not be easy in the slightest but she was ready for the challenge.
A/N: And now, dear readers, you see why I waited on the rest of the non-conventional Homesteaders from arriving. We are now left with a brokenhearted Connor and an adventure seeking Caroline. Yet as much as Connor wants to shield her from his life as an assassin, it will end up finding her instead in the next chapter. But oh, I'm excited to roll in the next residents in the next chapter as well as the colonial assassins!
Thank you as always for the reviews:
East Coast Captain: I remember reading their stories when making the outline for this story and it interested me a bit. I will definitely pulled from that to build Caroline's future role in the story. I have ideas on how Caroline will hear about the assassins in upcoming chapters. I adored the homestead missions so I hope to use some of them and build new ones for them. I loved the lumberjacks and Norris and Myriam the most though but they were all so great.
Guildmaster: Yes, it was definitely time for Amelia to fly on her own and the new homesteaders to fly in. I loved Norris' and Myriam's missions too so we'll definitely be seeing them in the next chapter. Caroline is indeed a persistent personality that doesn't give up and while Connor tries to protect her, he might inadvertently push her away. It's time for the two to grow more, especially now that they are apart.
Inari of the skies: I hope the chapter was exciting, especially with that ending. Thank you for the congrats, I did indeed pull from my experiences with my licensing for Amelia's studying and her stress with passing the board. I could only imagine traveling far for exams during those times for any profession.
Sarah: Thank you so much!
Kallig the bright master: Thank you very much, I'm so glad you love my Homestead story! When I first began writing about it, Homestead stories were sparse so I decided to write my own and have fun. I love the old exploration and pioneering times for the natural beauty and adventuring that it brings to the imagination. And I'm glad to have created new characters that the readers love as well.
Next Time: When Determination Meets Opportunity
"You're new in Boston, I haven't seen a hunter like you 'round these parts" he commented to the young woman frowning at her drink and smiled kindly, "The name's Duncan Little."
"You're definitely not small in stature" Caroline chuckled softly and placed her drink aside since it took time to adjust to the strange flavor. She didn't understand the fascination that her father and uncle had towards the drink. Is that why Ratonhnhaké:ton declined a try every time?
The laughter from patrons beside her broke her from her thoughts of home and she introduced herself, "My name's Grace Blackburn. I'm originally from Lake Champlain."
Well, that was quite the travel from home. Duncan was struck with curiosity and asked, "And what's a soul like you doing in a place like this?"
"I'm learning that hunting is not a woman's field, like so many others" she sighed with a small frown and leaned back in her seat. Her feet hurt from endless days of walking, she felt dirtier than a pig rolling in mud, and her meager earnings could only buy so much for the day. Her eyes swept over his attire and she commented with slight distaste, "You're dressed similar to a man of the Lord. I know women are supposed to care for a home and obey their man but I will not do as such. I can do just the same if given the chance-"
Duncan tilted his head since he kept the old clothes to maintain an everyday appearance. Being an assassin meant blending into the shadows and civilians to slide past enemies. The young woman appeared impartial to the church and he stated, "It is frowned upon but I am not tied to the church. Do what makes you happy, as long as it is legal and just, even if the laws of men disregard such."
"I want to work like any other but I'm cast aside easily for another man- what remedy is there?" she questioned matter-of-factly and paused when she heard laughter from the docked sailors in a booth beside them. They were able to work for pay without discrimination and although Duncan was a complete stranger, he had a kind demeanor. His face wasn't depicting disgust for her actions or demanding she stick to her societal role.
Taking a drink from her mug, she admitted with lingering shame, "My last option left is to disguise myself as one and shift my identity entirely. I wanted to show my true potential as myself, not a man, but it doesn't appear to be going that way."
"Would sacrificing yourself be worth it in the end?" he asked quietly as the young woman became a tad more interesting. Did she not have family to care for her? How long had she be trying to survive in the field of men? She reminded him of Dobby right away but she was a mere foot away from making the gender switch.
She smiled faintly to what she'd already lost back home and mused, "Sometimes, sacrifices are needed to allow the true essence of one's self to break free."
Her gaze switched from the glass to his and she asked with a friendly smile, "Do you often lurk in taverns to offer soul searching advice?"
"Only when the right heart needs it" he replied with a kind smile as he tried to help others however he could. Being a mediator in Boston led him to walking the poorest of districts to guide, feed, or provide shelter for people. At the same time, his travels allowed him to assess the quality of potential assassin recruits.
Caroline's gaze turned downcast to her drink again and he nodded quietly, "You fight an uphill battle but you are not quitting from the look in your eyes. What will you choose to do, Miss Blackburn?"
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