Color The Sky

by Mystic Blade

Connor's life at Davenport homestead brings a sense of family after leaving Kanathséton as he makes new friendships with the residents and finds himself slowly assimilating into one large family. He partakes in a part of life that isn't tied to the assassins while one young resident tackles the new wild frontier to carve a dream for herself as they cultivate their new community.

47. Tying Up Loose Ends

Music Inspiration: Dan Romer- "Now That This Old World is Ending"

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Tying Up Loose Ends

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25 September 1776

"When you promised me no battles in the Bahamas, I didn't think I'd be trading romantic sunsets at the beach for a haunted house" Caroline chuckled with sarcasm as she clung to an old dusty chandelier, hanging on for dear life. Well, she was situated about two stories in height but it was still daunting. She had become accustomed to the sheer height of ship masts but at least she had a rope or an extension of the mast to cling to. Here, she had nothing but air to cushion her fall.

"Is the former preferable?" Ratonhnhaké:ton asked as he peeked at her from the opposite side of the chandelier. His expression was stoic but his brown eyes were a different story as they glinted with amusement.

"It is when we're both hanging from this old thing that could break at any minute and we'll plummet to our death" she shot back with a soft laugh but the eerie silence of the place had it echoing. She winced at the distortion of her voice in the old manor and shook her head. Offering him a faint smile, she added in, "But at least we're together."

He didn't put her mind at ease by climbing to the top of the chandelier, causing it to sway. Caroline dug her fingers into the dusty grooves, holding back a sneeze, as she watched him ascend. Once he was safely kneeling on the support beam, she followed his path eagerly and carefully grabbed the edge of the wood. Ratonhnhaké:ton grabbed her opposite hand for support and he lifted her up beside him without effort.

Tilting his head to the side, he watched her catch her breath and asked, "Better?"

"I don't know how you do this without tiring" she admitted with embarrassment that her stamina couldn't keep up with his. He hadn't even broken a sweat as he moved like a silent panther while she felt like a clumsy bear trampling behind him. When she trained with Duncan before the truth had been revealed, she felt she was finally reaching his level. With Ratonhnhaké:ton, he raised the pedestal of accomplishment into the heavens and left her on earth.

"A lot of training, which is why you're with me" he reminded gently to reassure her that it was normal for her to feel out of breath. He had been raised in the forests so climbing trees and other objects had been second nature. She had grown up similarly in the countryside but her society deemed it unwomanly to do so. He had to continue the positive reinforcement because she was not as bad as she perceived herself to be.

Ratonhnhaké:ton had brought her to Edinburgh Castle while he searched for the last piece of Kidd's treasure. It was an old abandoned manor and as he expected, devoid of human life. The wilderness was slowly overtaking the dilapidating castle, casting an ominous light over it. Even without signs of life, the castle was a bleak and oppressive environment. Regardless of it, he had asked Caroline to accompany him and she'd happily joined to be at his side.

Unfortunately, Lewis Hutchinson's old place carried no romanticism for the couple and killed any fun they might have had. The place was dark and dreary in her book, begging her to bolt and not look back. Ratonhnhaké:ton, however, had brought her there to train in climbing heights to strengthen the free-running skills she'd earned alongside Duncan. Now that she knew the truth, he wanted to be the one teaching her.

She sighed under her breath when he jumped to the opposite side of the ceiling to an opposite beam. Taking a deep breath, she squatted carefully before pushing off the beam to land on the other side on her feet without slipping. Ratonhnhaké:ton grabbed her shoulders to steady her and she latched onto his forearms out of instinct. He didn't hesitate in encouraging her, "You're doing well."

With that said, he turned away from her to jump down where a metal pole projected from the wall. Grabbing it, he was practically an acrobat as he swung his body forward to land on a balcony off to their right. How the hell was she supposed to mimic that?! Uttering one of many numerous prayers that night, she kept her vision trained on that beam and threw herself down. Latching on before it passed her by, she used the momentum of the fall to propel herself forward feet first and landed on the bannister.

Well, more like slipped forward off the bannister.

She stumbled off the wooden railing in skidding steps as she overshot the move off the beam. Ratonhnhaké:ton was in the middle of speaking softly to himself about clues when she smacked into his backside. She expected her force to throw him against the wall but instead, she bounced off him to land on the floor on her butt.

"I swear you're made of bricks" she sighed softly as she picked herself up, dusting off her backside. Her face was flushed but whether from embarrassment or exercise induced, she couldn't tell. He offered a faint smile before walking forward and lifting himself into what was once a large glass display case. Shattered glass lay at their feet and in jagged peaks at the seals so she made sure to pull herself up on a secure area.

They walked through the shattered display to another hallway as their footsteps echoed in the empty place. Entering a small room, he noticed a missing musket from an arranged weapon stand and figured Palmer must've seized it in his chase. Turning to the left, Caroline followed when he entered yet another broken exhibit case that emptied into a balcony.

His eagle vision caught onto an upturned mask, touching it briefly to notice the mechanism was broken. It must have triggered something nearby to open and he ran through all his gathered clues in his mind, starting from the main room. The man with Kidd's map had run through the main foyer as Hutchinson shot bullets behind him and a hunter had his tricks to beat his prey. Or at least, a shortcut. Gazing at the dusty floor, he noticed one area was worn that led to a glass cabinet to his right.

Moving forward, he gripped one end of it and began pushing the heavy case to the opposite side. Caroline darted forward to help but his strength was enough to clear it across the hidden doorway. How had he not broken into a sweat by now? Placing a hand on his right shoulder, she assured gently, "Take it easy. You have me, you know."

He nodded in acknowledgement before entering the secret room, noticing an old organ and dirty white drapes on the walls. There was an opening above the organ and he jumped forward, slamming his foot on the keys before grasping the ledge. A harsh ominous sound echoed in the room, causing her to laugh to his nonchalance of using an instrument as a step stool. Her ears rang when her own feet landed on the keys but it was gone a second later as she hoisted herself onto the ledge.

They reached the skeletal structure of the ceiling with him taking the lead on the small wooden beams that crisscrossed. The triangular roof had several gaping holes as they pressed forward but it held steady when he jumped off to grab onto a lower beam below. Lifting himself up, he waited for Caroline to join him and took pride when she landed neatly beside him. She was learning, bit by bit, but she was humble in acknowledging it. Ushering her forward, he followed another section of the ceiling beams that supported the roof before finally grabbing a ledge on the opposite side of the ceiling that dropped down into a room.

It appeared as a private study with a solitary desk and bookcase while parts of the roof had caved in. Caroline landed beside him to frown at the desolate room and he remarked quietly, "I do not understand how anyone could live here. Small wonder Hutchinson went mad – this place feels mad."

Caroline felt the place was like a maze and wondered why anyone would want to leave the green land of Scotland for the islands. Sure, the beaches were a surreal aquamarine blue and the wilderness was still untamed- oh, right. The man was insane and liked hunting people for sport. Shaking her head, she followed Ratonhnhaké:ton through a small crawlspace that was embedded in the wall behind the desk. Boy, this crazy doctor sure put in detours in every room. It was a shame his victims couldn't find them to escape.

They approached a wooden panel that had two holes at the top that fit human eyes and Caroline shuddered, "That is creepy."

Ratonhnhaké:ton struck it with both arms and a heavy painting fell over to land on the floor below. He couldn't imagine breaking into people's privacy to cause harm or stalk their every move. The fallen painting revealed the main hall again and he jumped down to the ground floor. After exploring most of the castle for clues, he noticed the missing musket was by a beam from where he'd first entered. There was an old dry patch of blood off to his left and he walked further into the room to search for clues.

"Wait, did we just return to where we started?!" Caroline blurted with bewilderment after hurling herself over balconies and ceiling beams. How did they end up at the start? All that use of her arms for nothing. She'd feel it come morning and placed her hands on her hips to sigh morosely, "No wonder this chap went mad."

Ratonhnhaké:ton shot her an amused glance while he observed the bloody prints on a grandfather clock and she pointed out, "I suffered three massive coronaries back there with all the jumpin' an' flyin'."

Hearing her Scottish accent get thicker, he cupped her chin to meet her irritated gaze and spoke gently, "This is part of an Assassin's life."

"I don't want to be an Assassin. . .but I can't let you walk this road alone either" she sighed softly as she brushed back her hair, closing her eyes briefly. It was a lot to absorb now that she was involved in his world- with him. She could not ignore it and pretend nothing happened. Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she squeezed his hand before reassuring, "Sorry, just a flareup of emotions in this creepy fuckin' place."

"Language" he lectured to keep their spirits light and enjoyed seeing the smile that lifted her freckled cheeks. Brushing his thumb over the apple of her cheek, he whispered with gratitude, "Thank you for standing by me despite everything that happened this summer."

She nodded quietly because it had been a road of mending hearts since reuniting. They could not let each other go, even with the numerous hiccups in the road that year. Returning to their mission, he adjusted the mechanism for hour and minutes on the large clock until a loud click echoed. The entire clock shifted to the left on its own to reveal another secret passageway and he entered with a careful eye.

It was darker than the other rooms as it failed to have natural light enter. There was a descending stairwell to the left and he took the lead as Caroline whispered dryly, "This wouldn't be a creepy house without a creepy basement."

She certainly knew how to keep his heart light in tense situations and the stairway was deeper than anticipated. The lack of moonlight or any artificial lightning made it dreary and at one point, he almost slipped on a cracked step. Using his special sight, the darkness became bearable as it pierced the dark crevices and he grabbed her hand to guide her. The long staircase eventually opened into a large room that held tables with tattered linens and rusty cages that hung from the ceiling. It was disgusting and he moved quickly to avoid looking at any of it, finding a hole in the wall at the end of the room.

"Oh, don't tell me we're going in there" she whispered with apprehension of jumping into an unknown hole in the dark. For all she knew, there were poisonous snakes or ravenous badgers down there. Yes, the man had been apprehended years ago but still! The wilderness could be just as dangerous as man itself.

Ratonhnhaké:ton wasn't surprised by her hesitation in the darkness and offered, "You're more than welcome to stay-"

"Nope" she refused because she would stick by his side, even in tiny dark spaces. She would rather head into the unknown with him than remain behind, especially in the large empty torture room. The cages dangling from the ceiling were unnerving and she shook her head, "I'm not staying here with all this."

"You're able to see in here?" he asked carefully because without his special sight, it was pitch black. Anybody else would be tripping over their feet and he realized Caroline had kept his pace down the staircase without pause.

"Yes, can't you?" she asked with surprise because the room was visible to her in low lightning. She had bumbled around in the darkness during childhood but once she reached puberty, she had found the new change to her vision when wandering the darkness of Davenport. It had been a pleasant surprise but she had yet to find anyone else that shared it.

Ratonhnhaké:ton hesitated to answer as he began to piece together the possibility that she carried eagle vision. Maybe her eyes adjusted better? Deciding to probe more into her question, he admitted, "Yes, but my vision changes to adjust to the darkness."

"Mine too!" she replied easily with a peppy smile because she figured something had happened to her vision in the natural aging process. She had never told her parents since it never bothered her but to hear him confess the same relieved her. She was not the only one anymore!

"We need to have a chat about that when we return to the Aquila" he sighed softly to the new similarity between them and squeezed her hand. He did not want her to think it was anything ominous since he would have to adjust her training to that new piece of information. Never did he consider the idea that she might have such a trait. Seeing as they had a mission on their hands, he reminded, "Let's finish this."

Without another word, he jumped into the hole with her hand in his. She expected a long fall into a pitch-black cave of horrors but instead, it was a short fall into a cave that was illuminated by filtering moonlight from above. The sight wasn't any better as a graveyard of old bones littered the place and she took careful care in not stepping over them.

He found the remains of his target within the circle of illumination as he saw the withered yellow parchment sticking out from his clothing. Leaning down, he picked it up carefully to avoid disturbing the corpse and read aloud, "Close to a tree kissed by fire."

"In other words, a burnt tree?" she offered her interpretation as he folded the paper into his coat pocket with an amused smile. They had been on edge traveling through the castle as the endless mazes of corridors made him think he was going in circles at one point. Realizing that he was finished finding all of the clues, relief flooded him and it became tolerable in the gruesome place. He knew the way out of the castle so the trip back to the Aquila would be easy. Caroline saw the lifted corners of his lips and exclaimed with humorous disbelief, "Are you smiling in this pit of death?"

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10 October 1776

The Aquila had been fortunate to enjoy smooth sailing past Georgia after their numerous encounters at sea. She had sustained damage on her way home from one scuffle but it was superficial and had been repaired throughout their stops while their enemies hadn't been as fortunate. The entire crew was returning home safe and sound after their rough tumble off the coast.

Ratonhnhaké:ton and Caroline had begun a new chapter in their lives as they finally shoved aside the obstacles blocking them from one another. He refused to let any more secrets separate them because time had been wasted, leaving both miserable instead of happy. He would be an open book to her alone and she was humbled by that immense trust. With time, he hoped to convince her that the Assassins were fighting for good. If she chose to join them, he would make sure she understood the dangers. If not, he was fine with that.

Their mighty frigate had been passing in the outskirts of New York's bay when Caroline noticed something suspicious from her perch. Gripping the mast for a stable hold, she stood up with a furrowed brow to watch the city's horizon. The clear sky was stained with gray smoke which signified that a fire had been eradicated. The clouds encircling the domed sky reminded her of pale storm clouds and she remembered seeing similar in Boston after the Battle of Bunker Hill. Back then, the billowing plumes of smoke had been fresh in charcoal across the sky as the rebellion fought fiercely on the battlefield. The current tint of the smoke meant the fire had ceased but the amount was a lot more in comparison to Bunker Hill.

Had the Patriots and Loyalists clashed in New York?

The raging conflict kept spilling into the cities and Caroline dreaded the possibility of it spilling into the countryside. Boston had already fought off one major battle but time would tell when the next fight would be. Raising her left arm to draw attention, she hollered down below, "Captain! You might want to look at this!"

Ratonhnhaké:ton didn't hesitate to listen to his officer since she had a wider view of the horizon. Leaving the quarterdeck, he left the steering to Robert to descend the steps to approach the main mast. Activating the pulley system, he held onto the teardrop shaped handle until it stopped below her platform. Grabbing the edge of it, he lifted himself with ease to find Caroline using her spyglass towards the city. With her as his navigator, he had gifted one to her so they could each keep watch of the sea. That, and he used his on missions to scope out enemy forts nowadays. She handed over hers without a second thought as she crossed her arms to explain, "It appears as if the city was on fire."

The dark clouds over the city were ominous enough and peering through the spyglass, he could see the charred remains on several buildings. These were businesses close to port so he could only wonder how the interior appeared where residences were abundant. Fire was not to be trifled with and she asked tentatively, "Should we investigate?"

"We didn't shy away from the last battle" he replied easily while giving one last look to the murky horizon of the city. He hadn't been there since his imprisonment in the summer and wasn't really looking forward to it. Hopefully, people had forgotten his face so he could easily blend into crowds. Looking to the bright side of their trip, he reminded fondly, "It only served to bring us together."

"I'm by your side" she vowed confidently to fight whatever came their way and grinned, "Whether it's Loyalists or Templars that we face."

"I'm not letting you face the second" he ordered protectively because she wasn't in their order and would treat her as such. She was there to learn about the Templars and their threat, not join a fight that could threaten her life. He was aware that he was creating a bubble of safety around her but he'd be struck with guilt if anything happened.

Caroline chuckled to his serious expression, brushing her fingertips over his square chin, and teased softly, "Protective, aren't you?"

"You're still a civilian" he pointed out because she carried the information of his order, but not their allegiance. She was capable in a fight but he wouldn't include her unless he absolutely had to. He hadn't been a fan at seeing her jump ship with him against a Templar-filled ship but she'd impressed him on holding her own. Despite the allure of having her at his side, he had given his word to her family about returning her home safely and added in, "I also promised your parents to always bring you home."

She couldn't argue with him on that one, cherishing his loyalty. He was protecting her but she was also fiercely protective of him after their many years together. You simply couldn't ignore that unless you were coldhearted. He handed the spyglass back to her before descending the top platform, using the pulley to return to the top deck. Soon enough, she heard his next set of orders echo, "We're docking in New York, full sail ahead."

It would cut their time in half and from the look of it, the port appeared busy. Robert repeated the orders while Caroline oversaw the correct angle of the sails that directed them to the harbor. As they neared the port of the city, they saw traces of burnt buildings in the distance as the black charred remains peaked out from the surviving ones.

Ratonhnhaké:ton ordered the crew to switch to half-sail once they entered the calm bay. Caroline motioned to the crew on the pier for an open slot they could drop anchor and one of the men directed them further ahead. They passed another frigate unloading cargo as they zoomed by steadily while the Aquila lost momentum and soon enough, Ratonhnhaké:ton saw the open space large enough for his ship. Dropping the anchor to lock their ship in place, the sailors furled the sails completely to remain immobile.

"What happened out 'ere?" David asked the crew below since he was the closest to the boarding area of the ship. Caroline quickly descended from her perch to land on the deck while Robert descended the quarterdeck to join his officers. The place looked worse for wear than the last time they visited and wondered what barreled through.

"Great fire, I'm afraid" one of the deck workers answered with disappointment as they grabbed the tossed rope hooks to tie in the Aquila. The sailors on board secured them to the bannisters while he continued, "The whole city was practically engulfed in it a few weeks ago. The smoke will take a while to clear. Most have evacuated and we don't recommend new migrants to stay here."

"Is anyone in need of aid or evacuation?" Robert asked carefully because they wouldn't leave those in need if they could help. Once your home burned, that was it. You had to either rebuild everything or move on to a better place. If there were humble families about without a home, they could offer a lift to Davenport or Boston.

"Just food and blankets, if they can be spared" another piped up as they guided incoming goods to different areas on the dock. Each was tied by rope with a parchment sign labeled for what company would pick up the goods. The dock worker pointed to the stores open on the docks and informed, "All we have open right now is trade at the ports while the city's being cleaned of rubble. We're not encouraging travel at all."

Ratonhnhaké:ton joined his crew as they observed the docks, noticing heavy activity with wagon companies heading out the city. Most of the ships docked were privately owned so the only way out for unfortunate residents appeared to be on foot. Looking to his first mate, he ordered, "Unload the remaining food, it will make us lighter and they have need for it."

He didn't offer his blankets because he already experienced refusal when he'd offered them during his travels on foot. Nobody wanted to touch your free belongings if you were anyone of color, except for your money. His lower deck sailors made quick work of bringing up the remaining crates of food while the top deck sailors prepared the docking platform to unload everything. He kept his men fed whenever they restocked at the ports because hunger was not part of his adventures. It was better to have extra lying around in case of slow winds rather than running low.

Caroline joined her crew by grabbing one of the crates off the floor to place it in a stack of accumulated goods designated for the city, noticing church people gathering donations. Most were food and items of clothing that could be spared, while a few coins were gathered in a wooden box at their table. She had brought her sleeping blanket to give away and although it wasn't in the newest of conditions, it kept her warm on cold nights at sea. Handing it to them with a sheepish smile, she handed the women manning the station several coins to help their efforts. Ratonhnhaké:ton had privately handed a few pounds to her before leaving because they'd easily take money from her rather than himself.

Waving off a rabble of thanks, she found her sailors removing the tying hooks from the ship as they prepared to depart. David whistled loudly as a last call to the men and snapped his fingers when he spotted the redhead at the bottom of the platform. She shook her head to his mischief but understood the crew was eager to return to Davenport. They had left in September and the delays of naval battles and side missions pushed their return date back.

The deckhands pulled back the platform to block access to the Aquila while the ones at the bow pulled up the anchor. Ratonhnhaké:ton took his place at the wheel and nodded to the crew with cheer, "Let's go home."

"Half-sail, let's get 'er movin" Robert called out to begin departure and smiled widely when the while sails unfurled. Angling the sails into the wind, the Aquila began moving right to return to the harbor for her return home.

"We did a good deed and nobody had to brandish a weapon" Caroline declared with glee that they managed to do good without having to kill someone. That, or sink a ship. Heading to the main mast to return to her rightful perch, she pointed to the captain and complimented his prediction, "You're right, our luck is turning!"

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11 October 1776

The Aquila had docked in the early morning and the crew had worked to empty her decks to prepare her for a good scrubbing. The sails were removed entirely for a deep clean, inspection, and repair before the next trip. Inventory on any weak parts of her were itemized to fully repair them now that they were home. Ratonhnhaké:ton wasn't leaving anything to chance before they headed out on their next trip and his team was more than happy to help. Caroline was more than happy to clean the sails of her ships with her subordinates while the Clutterbuck brothers handled the weapons portion. Robert had the rest of the men on cleaning duty until the sun rose high enough to wake the rest of Davenport.

When that was said and done, the men headed for a shrouded part of the cove for a bath while Caroline was swept into Ratonhnhaké:ton's cabin. She chuckled to his propriety to protect her from nudity as the only woman onboard and placed a hand on his chest to joke, "I feel sorry for the fish more than my eyes."

He smiled modestly for the wisecrack as he turned to his desk to empty it of his belongings. He didn't leave anything in his cabin after traveling, removing everything for either cleaning or restocking somewhere in his room in the manor. Grabbing a set of three leather bound books, he handed them to her as she eyed him with surprise and he revealed, "I found a few more books on navigating that I think you'll enjoy."

Clutching the books to her chest, she opened her mouth to thank him but he beat her by stating frankly, "I am quite lucky to have you onboard and I'm proud to be your captain."

"I'm doing a good job?" she asked in a bashful whisper because there were times she questioned herself on the wind currents and stars overhead. This was her first true job outside Davenport and she wanted to give it her all. She'd missed a few rogue waves in the start that had now been corrected and falling overboard still made her shudder.

"A marvelous one- don't quit on me" he complimented with a playful warning that had them laughing together. The Aquila had survived without a navigator for years but he couldn't deny that she'd shifted their work dynamics onboard for the better. She was a natural on the crow's nest and he realized that was her true role all along, not hunting or being a lumberjack. Clasping a hand on her right shoulder, he confessed his conflicting roles between captain and her partner, "I am torn between wanting to protect you and encouraging you to push past every limitation. I love you and it is from that love that I will let you soar like the eagle you are."

"As long as you're there beside me" she replied earnestly because she wouldn't fly anywhere else. She had traveled by herself, with friends, even her sisters, but it didn't feel as natural as it did with him. Wherever he wandered, she would be at his side.

"Always" he promised with a warm smile to convey his affection and leaned forward to kiss her cheek. If he headed for her lips, she was liable to throw him down on his bed and they'd miss breakfast. Caroline smiled widely to his innocent doting as she moved away to grab her overfilled backpack, which threatened to spill everything she had brought back. Grabbing his own leather pack, he went over the details of their plan, "I will let the crew know that breakfast is paid for and I will grab ours to meet you back home?"

Raising her left eyebrow, she asked skeptically with a pout, "They won't miss their heroic captain toasting their bravery?"

He had always been the type to stick in the background or pay for meals and leave his men to their fun. Caroline, on the other hand, basked in the socialization and reminded him that it helped to bond them as a team. With her being a colonist and having more insight to that culture, he often deferred to her suggestions.

With that said, the couple found themselves at the Mile's End half an hour later after running ahead like the wind to beat their crew. While they frolicked in the water, the two had paid Corrine for a hot bath so they could change into clean clothing and meet their crew on time. She had been more than happy to store their packs while the two ran off to different bathrooms to bathe. Caroline's surprise came when she was the first out the bathroom as she used a towel to dry her damp hair before pinning it into a tight bun to make getting ready easier. She had a remaining clean blue tunic and black breeches, slapping on the same boots since she'd home right after.

Knocking on his door right across from hers, she called out with amusement on her smiling lips, "Are you almost done?"

"I'm in the middle of shaving and buttoning this- ow!" she heard back in an awkward reply as his voice pitched higher, wincing when she heard him cry out. Why was he trying to multitask with a blade? They weren't badly strapped for time yet.

He threw his shaving blade into the wooden basin before rinsing his face and pressed the end of a washcloth against the new cut on his chin. He abandoned his half-open clothes completely to focus on his new injury, sighing to letting his nerves get the best of him. Before Caroline decided to break his door down and catch him half-naked, he called back to inform, "Just a scratch. . .I think. . . I'm fine. . .really."

"Look, if you're nervous about asking my boban- don't be" she began carefully to lighten any nerves he might have about their second stop of the day. He had already done this dance once and didn't need to worry- the one on her father's protective radar was Walter. Ratonhnhaké:ton could handle himself against anyone and protect her which was what her parents were most concerned about with a suitor. She loved him and together, they could build a decent life in the country.

Ratonhnhaké:ton glanced at himself in the mirror to remove the cloth from his chin, brushing back his loose dark hair that framed his face in a curtain. He'd barely managed to throw on his white vest over the basic tunic underlayer before his unexpected cut. This was not a good start to his day. He wanted to appear presentable to her family- what if they thought someone cut him on his trip? Leaning against the counter, he took a deep breath to calm himself and replied, "No, it's fine- why does my wardrobe have so many buttons?"

How did the Assassins manage to get dressed in all the numerous layers and buttons? How was that ideal in an emergency? He glared at his white vest as he realized he'd skipped one button and ruined the linear conformity of the rest. He heard muffled laughter behind the door and blew air against a lock of black hair that decided to tickle his nose. Where was his old deerskin outfit when he sorely needed it?

Eventually, he emerged from the bathroom in his spotless uniform but brushed his hair back into a sleek ponytail to let it dry. Caroline's attire was simpler than his and he sighed with dismay when she tried to make a small braid within his tied hair. He didn't feel like himself at all and let her fiddle with his strands as he muttered, "I'm not made for the polished look."

"I agree, I like your outdoorsman look" she smiled fondly as she finished a small braid out of his damp hair and picked out another random strand to restart the process. She liked seeing the tiny but detailed braids in his hair, finding it odd to see him without them. His native heritage was something she admired and approved seeing it in his style of dress. Smiling with support, she nodded to him with encouragement, "Ready?"

The two made their brief appearance with the crew to compliment their skills and trust. It had been the largest fight they'd had so far with the sheer number of English frigates. At the same time, they hadn't escaped fights on their journey to the Bahamas either. They had been incredibly lucky not to lose anyone in the journey and their close calls meant their success earned a celebration. Caroline tried to stay longer for the round of drinks she bought but he was quick to scoot her out the door to keep them on their agenda. The young couple thanked the innkeepers and Walter for their hospitality and service to their crew, who could get rowdy, but Oliver had an old but trusty shotgun on display over his liquor selection to keep things peaceful. Despite Robert enjoyed his share of drinks, he knew better than to let his men ruin their town inn and promised to keep an eye on them.

"Do you think this is enough for breakfast?" Ratonhnhaké:ton asked cautiously because he wanted to provide for her family. If he couldn't demonstrate that he could care for her family, how would they trust him to take care of her?

Walter had taken up on sorting a breakfast order for the couple in a wooden crate for easier handling. The smells of Corrine's fresh and aromatic cooking filled the bar counter, making the two even hungrier. They had failed to eat anything to make their escape quick while their order was being made. As he stacked two whole chickens on the bottom, the mild-mannered Walter commented, "I think your order should be fine. You have several chickens, meat pies, a loaf of bread, several cheeses, and a cranberry pie. I'll throw in some salted butter, Martha likes it."

"She's mighty keen on you too" Caroline chuckled softly because her sister was smitten with the innkeeper's grandson. He was a million times more amicable than his sisters and didn't judge anyone with his laidback demeanor. Walter had fit in just fine in Davenport and Caroline hoped her sister had found her prince in town rather than the city.

Like Ratonhnhaké:ton, he averted his blue-gray gaze towards the wrapped pieces of aged cheese to state sheepishly, "No matter how much I fancy her and I do, I have to show your father I'm dependable and trustworthy."

"Don't break her heart and treat her with mutual respect, that's it" Caroline pointed out easily with a sympathetic smile because she wanted the best for her sister. She and Martha had finally bridged together peace and they had grown closer this past year than any other. Their father only saw for their best well-being and she flicked her thumb towards Ratonhnhaké:ton, "He approved of my Connor, which most fathers would have refused so don't let it intimidate you."

"That was two years ago, what if it's changed?" he whispered uncertainly because the unfounded Clara rumors in town didn't help. They had run so rampant that he'd be surprised if the lumberjack didn't hear about them. Godfrey had always treated him respectfully and if he had unknowingly broken that rare trust, he was in deep trouble. He didn't want to be chased out of their home by Charlotte!

Walter darted a finger between the two with disbelief to what he'd heard and asked to double check, "You two are courting?"

Caroline's eyebrow of interrogation shot up instantly and she questioned, "That a problem?"

"No! My apologies" he blurted quickly with embarrassment to sounding intolerant and waved his hands. He didn't want to upset the sister of his lady and who could one day be his family. He was already under scrutiny for being an out of towner and his sisters hadn't helped their image either. He meant no ill will towards the two and gazed sheepishly at Ratonhnhaké:ton to correct, "Before you left, my sister was rather insistent with you. . .but I'm glad you chose Ms. Burnett."

Ratonhnhaké:ton had no response for that because he didn't want to acknowledge the attention from Clara. She'd inadvertently brought him more trouble than he realized and almost lost Caroline. He wouldn't risk anyone coming between their bond and would take more calculated care. Walter surprised the two by revealing with a downcast gaze, "We're expected to leave soon."

"A 'we' doesn't always have to include you" Caroline stated gently because she had heard plenty about the girls' anxiety to return to the city. Their lifestyle in the rural countryside wasn't their fit and she respected that. To each their own. However, if he wasn't dedicated to leaving, nobody could truly force him. Encouraging him to follow his heart, she pointed out, "You have a say in your future."

"Thank you, that means a lot" he agreed with relief that he didn't have to adhere to everyone's mold of what he should be. He enjoyed working alongside his grandparents and there was so much freedom in the countryside. He could walk a road there and never fear he'd be trampled by a runaway horse or carriage. Homes were largely spaced in Davenport compared to the compacted housing of the city. Snapping out of his pensive thoughts, he shook his head and chuckled, "Sorry, I'll get this finished for you two."

Returning to his work, Caroline turned to Ratonhnhaké:ton and suggested, "I'll head there to buy some time and make sure boban's there."

She squeezed his right hand in one last attempt to prevent discouragement before leaving the inn with her backpack. Her crew echoed a loud goodbye that made her laugh, waving to them as she existed through the front door of the inn. The sun had risen over the horizon to warm the landscape as birds began to sing their songs of sunrise. The mornings in Davenport had begun to grow colder and she could see droplets of dew clinging to the blades of grass as she headed home. Fall was slowly receding and winter would come in that year with a sweeping blow of snow across the land.

Her heart fluttered happily to seeing her family's homestead, quickly racing up the familiar green hill to greet the wooden porch of her modest home. Knocking on the front door, she knew one of her family members had to be awake since they rose at the break of sunlight. Her mother's cautious voice was heard on the opposite side of the door, "Who is it?"

"I'm back!" she greeted cheerfully to reassure her she wasn't a robber in disguise. Her attire might have suited a man but her face betrayed the androgynous outfit. She couldn't help but laugh when her mother peeked through the window next to the door to double check.

Caroline waved back with an amused smile to her protective behavior but she expected no less from a mother of six. The door unlocked quickly as Catherine tore it open to welcome her eldest child back into her home, embracing her tightly. The younger redhead blinked to the rare hug but Catherine had heard the news about New York's disastrous fire and hoped her child was nowhere near it. The fact that she had not returned by the estimated date had also worn on her heart with each passing day.

Hugging her back to return the sentiment, Caroline was thankful to be home in one piece after the close call last month. She would not let that incident slip past her lips or her parents might forbid her from another long trip. Pointing to her fat overflowing backpack, she grinned confidently to boast, "I brought goodies!"

Catherine flushed at hearing that because she didn't want her spending her earnings. Her money was meant to be hers and for her future homestead. Ushering her inside, Caroline's footsteps echoed over the floorboards as Catherine chided gently, "Child, having you home safe is enough."

"Aye, but gifts are nice too" she reminded cheekily because she didn't want her siblings to ever think she forgot them. Speaking of her beloved family, she spotted Martha and Amelia at work setting the table while Elizabeth stirred their stew pot bubbling in the fireplace. Samuel carried a bucket of water from the well and Alice helped him lift it onto the table.

As always, Alice was the first to spot her and the brunette teenager rushed to her. Caroline chuckled to the heartwarming welcome and squeezed her tightly before setting her heavy backpack down. The thing was fine to carry for a short distance but it eventually became draining on her backside. Catherine attempted to lug it away but ended up having to drag it across the floor, surprised to the weight her daughter carried. She'd have to start giving her extra portions of food if she wanted to lift like her husband.

Godfrey entered through the rear of their home as he finished the chores in the barn for their horses and cow. Rubbing his left shoulder, he frowned at realizing age was slowly catching up to him. He had done manual labor alongside his father at Samuel's age to earn extra money for their family but he was proud in not having to put his own son through that. He let out a hearty laugh when Caroline latched onto him for a hug, surprising the lumberjack.

"Yer getting' faster every day" he complimented as he welcomed her back, grateful that she returned safe. His wife had worried on her late return but he had reassured her every night that she'd come back to them. His oldest had turned out to be fiercely independent like a son and as a father, he couldn't be prouder. He didn't want any of his daughters to tolerate any lout or disrespect because he wouldn't be around forever to knock them out.

Smelling the delectable smell of hot butter emanating through the main room, she asked curiously, "Did you make breakfast already?"

"Of course, hearty potato soup and sliced ham" her mother replied proudly because she never failed in setting down her breakfast on the hour every day. Having grown daughters helped a lot but one day, each of her dears would leave her home for their own.

There was a knock on the door yet again but Caroline was faster than her mother at answering it. Ratonhnhaké:ton entered through the open doorway as he carried the crate of hot food and he shuddered slightly to frown, "Either we've stayed in the south too long or it's becoming chilly."

"Connor!"

He was surprised to hear the cheer of welcome in all their voices and returned the greeting in earnest. He had missed the family and felt ashamed at being blind to ignoring them in favor of Clara. They had always been there for him and he'd left them to spend time elsewhere. How could that not hurt them? Not to mention, the shame he should feel for doing so. She had truly created a wedge between his adoptive family and he didn't like that at all. There were no chastising gazes and Caroline tugged the right side of his overcoat to pull him further in. Shutting the door behind him to leave the cold outside, she smiled brightly at her family and revealed, "I was going to say I sent Connor ahead to the Mile's End to fetch breakfast for us."

"More food?" Samuel asked with delight to the sound of that and leaned forward to smell the aromas from the crate. His older friend never failed in bringing him goodies from his trips but frowned when Caroline ruffled his hair. Still, they had more food to spare and he raised his arms to exclaim, "This is like Christmas already!"

"Why didn't you say so? I could've helped!" Martha fussed with embarrassment because she could've lent a hand. She enjoyed helping Corrine at the inn with cooking and hoped that they hadn't spent too much on the family. They were young like her and needed to save money for a rainy day.

"By giving Walter a wink while Connor did the lifting?" Elizabeth teased impishly since her sister batted her eyes dreamily when she returned home from her dates. Honestly, she was surrounded by women in love and expected Amelia to turn up with a paramour from town one day. What had happened to their days of old when all they worried about were holes in dresses and chewing on blades of grass?

"No! I could've earned a free loaf" the brunette laughed softly because the Miller family let her escape with leftovers from what she made. She liked spending time with the family but the only downside were Walter's siblings. Anytime they surfaced, she kept by Corrine or called it an early day to head home. If there was a future there, they would be attached which was unfortunate.

Caroline grabbed the small wooden crate from Ratonhnhaké:ton as the warm food emanated from the openings. Setting it down on the table, she leaned against it and smirked slyly to inform with wagging eyebrows, "He sent you butter. Salted butter."

Elizabeth whistled scandalously as she winked at Martha, who quickly batted her away for trying to instigate gossip. She wasn't the type to take advantage of another so she'd help with sewing and cooking at the inn to earn a few coins and a bite or two. Her sisters, however, meant no harm and they laughed together in a harmony that cheered their parents. Years ago, they fought like cats and dogs but now, they were the best of friends.

Ratonhnhaké:ton glanced at her family sheepishly as they focused solely on him and he offered quietly, "I hope I'm not intruding-"

The entire family burst into welcome as Elizabeth and Samuel grabbed him by each arm to bring him further into the house. They hadn't seen him in a long time and the silence between him and their sister only made them miss him more. He was surprised by the affection from her family, smiling when each offered him a hug. Martha's openness surprised him the most after seeing her grow up indifferent to him but Caroline told him she'd changed after Clara's arrival, even traveling to New York on the Aquila with Elizabeth during his imprisonment. They were his family, even if they shared no blood, and he hoped to join them in name one day.

Catherine's eyes narrowed at their arrival, smelling something fishy, and asked, "What brought this on? Last time I checked, you two acted as if you both had the plague."

The couple glanced at each other sheepishly before turning their gaze to the floor. They had faced a conflicted summer that almost threatened to rip them apart. Not to mention, he came close to losing her without resolving their problems. Neither would allow their new bond to be threatened but they both sought the approval of her parents again.

"I agree to being upset over untrue rumors but it's been resolved" Caroline admitted shamefully to her behavior but she wasn't one to go down without a fight. She wouldn't cause a scene to be heard but she would make her point. Not wanting to focus on less than stellar months, she explained, "I brought him because we have something to say."

Ratonhnhaké:ton stepped forward as he clasped his hands together to settle his nerves and began carefully, "I didn't think I'd do this twice but I am here to request-"

"Are you two back together?" Godfrey interjected to beat them to the chase since he remembered his daughter arriving home in huff over the summer. Catherine told him the two were butting heads over a love triangle yet, they happily scampered off in the Aquila to be at sea. He didn't understand youngsters anymore!

"Yes?" Ratonhnhaké:ton supplied earnestly with a softer and less confident tone than before. He respected the Scotsman greatly and hoped that his recent behavior hadn't led him to casting him out of the running for Caroline's hand. Otherwise, he had a lot of makeup work to do to regain the broken trust.

Godfrey grabbed a washcloth to wrap around the handle of their kettle that nestled over the burning fire. Removing it, he poured himself a cup of coffee and questioned sharply, "Are you asking for my approval?"

Squaring his shoulders, he prayed to his ancestors that the kettle would stay on the table and stood straight to nod affirmatively, "Yes."

"I'm not going to torture you through that again" Godfrey laughed merrily to the horrid thought of stressing out the poor man. He'd been in his footsteps once for Catherine's hand, terrified out of his mind, and Ratonhnhaké:ton had already asked him two years ago. Handing the lad a cup of coffee to show there were no hard feelings, he looked at the young couple and offered his fatherly advice, "There's only two things you kids need to remember. Carrie, don't run off again without a word to him. Connor, don't go off spending time with pretty single women. If you two can handle that and respect each other, you'll be fine."

"You approve?" he asked quietly as he released a breath of suspense that he'd held and relaxed completely. Caroline patted him on the back with a fond smile and he sipped the hot coffee to calm his nerves. It was over- he succeeded!

"I've always approved of you but you two are hardheaded" Godfrey admitted with a kind smile to the man that had once been a boy lending his hand in the river. He knew the meaning of hard work and carried himself honorably despite what society threw at him. If Caroline had to marry anyone that would offer her the same respect, it would be him.

"This is the last approval request, I promise" Caroline piped up nervously because she wanted to keep her parents happy and proud of them, not the opposite. Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded quickly in agreement because he wasn't going to do this three times! Otherwise, he'd pack his bags and tell Caroline to meet him by the great lakes.

"Good, I expect wedding bells instead of another breakup this time" Catherine chided gently because the two kept giving each other a runaround. She had expected to only go through the courting process once per suitor with each of her children but Caroline gave her a run for her money. She rested easier at knowing the two were finally ready to finalize their commitment.

"We're barely at a month's mark!" Caroline blurted hastily to the thought of throwing herself into a sudden marriage. She wasn't ready for that just yet! They had merely started discovering their independence as a young couple as they traveled the colonies. She didn't want him to think she was desperate to be tied down- far from it. Her hands flew to her mouth a second later as she realized her slip of the truth, "Oops."

Catherine ignored the fact that her headstrong daughter decided to court without their blessing, not that she wouldn't grant it, and stated matter-of-factly, "Your father proposed in one month, our wedding was in three, and you were born nine months later."

Ratonhnhaké:ton's eyes widened to the thought of having a child within one year of marriage. Children were considered a blessing in his culture but he also desired some time to adjust to his new role as a husband. While he fantasized about chasing after a dark-haired toddler frantically, Caroline calculated the math on her fingers quickly and blurted, "Wait, was I a shotgun wedding baby?!"

"No, you arrived almost on our anniversary" Catherine chuckled with amusement to her daughter's bewildered face while her husband laughed. They had been young kids in love back then and their abundant family was proof of it. She had been raised properly and would've fainted at the thought of becoming pregnant before marriage. That same mindset was instilled in her daughters to avoid an unwanted marriage or worse, single parenthood. Wagging her finger at her eldest, she reminded, "So, no funny business at sea."

"Mother! Don't scare him!" she exclaimed with embarrassment, blushing heavily to the insinuation that they'd act improperly. Yes, they kissed rather heavily but that was it. They weren't ready or even close to risking an unexpected pregnancy out of wedlock. Touching her warm cheeks, she broke away from the group and raised her voice to change the subject, "Let's prepare breakfast, shall we?"

Amelia had her sibling's back as she began to fill their wooden bowls with soup and asked them, "What did you bring?"

Elizabeth didn't wait for Ratonhnhaké:ton to open the box and pried the top off to peer at the hot food inside. The entire crate was full of it as the heat emanated to announce its freshness and she declared jovially, "He brought enough to feed a militia!"

"You're the best brother ever!" Samuel exclaimed happily as he patted his friend on the back with gratitude. Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled modestly because it was to show her family that he could provide for them one day. It was how things were done among his people but he could see the Burnetts were the same. They took him into their home without question and taught, fed, and clothed him without expecting anything in return. He was grateful for the luck of finding a family to call his and the one he loved among them.

"We're not betrothed" Caroline chastised bashfully because her family had jumped from the courting wagon to the marriage train rather quickly. She didn't want to scare him off and desired to let their relationship flow naturally. They had hit many bumps in the past two years and she hoped the upcoming year would be better.

Ratonhnhaké:ton had no question in his mind that she would be his partner for life. She knew every secret of his life now and their bond formed in 1770 had yet to break. He was aware that their blend of cultures would have people from both sides ostracizing them but she was all he needed. He was a child of the New World that she'd set foot on to build a life and he would provide that future for her. He watched her grab the fresh load of bread to slice it for her family and he murmured quietly, "Yet."

"Don't let our mother heckle you into proposing already" Martha sighed with dismay because her parents had practically cornered Walter with his intentions. Unlike her mild-mannered paramour, her sister's partner could hold his own in a verbal or physical fight. Folding a cloth napkin next to a full bowl of soup, she motioned for him to sit at their table. He would be her brother one day and she smiled warmly, "You ask her when you're both ready."

This time, it was Caroline's time to blush as the prospect of being asked for marriage was surreal. Being at his side had always felt natural but waking up to him every morning would be a different turn in their lives. He wouldn't be her suitor but her husband, for all life. Quietly, she placed the slices of bread on a serving platter and asked with a hint of nervousness, "Do you mean that?"

"I will ask you when the time is right" he answered truthfully because his sentiments hadn't faded in over three years. If anything, they only became stronger as their ideals and careers matched. He was aware that his life would be in danger while working with the Assassins but he didn't know when he would end the Templar threat. It would be unfair to make her wait but he would make sure to ask when there wasn't much work to be done in Davenport or for the Order.

"So, six years?" she poked cheekily in reminder to his biggest secret because they weren't going through that again. Otherwise, she'd take her mother's spoon and fling it over his head.

"Don't be fresh" Ratonhnhaké:ton smiled to her joking because he hadn't thought of a great plan for that one. He held regrets over how he'd revealed everything and he was a lucky man to not lose her. There would be no more risks in their relationship and he promised without hesitation, "You will be my bride."

---

21 October 1776

"You're not upset that I'm helping them pack?" Ratonhnhaké:ton asked carefully to ensure he wouldn't return to an angry partner. He had promised to steer clear of Clara to prevent fracturing their new relationship but Caroline was letting him roam free. Part of him wondered if it was a trick to test his loyalty and he had to double check, "I won't have a spoon flung at me?"

"No, I'm aware of your helpful nature" Caroline laughed merrily to the thought that she'd hurl spoons at him. If he'd asked any other time, she might've chastised him but not today. The gossip down the grapevine (ahem, Martha) was that the innkeepers' grandchildren were leaving that day. For that, Caroline was exhilarated to hear the news and Ratonhnhaké:ton had confirmed it. He had dropped by her home to ask for permission and she'd sputtered to his respectful mannerisms.

Leaning against the post of their porch, she wagged her eyebrows to encourage him slyly, "I'm more than happy to see you help her pack those fancy trunks."

"I don't think they're fancy, Caroline" he replied modestly because he'd seen them on arrival. They were nice indeed, made of leather and wood, but he was sure higher social circles carried better. He was there to help people, not judge their belongings.

"Don't spoil my fun" she muttered with a playful raspberry that caused him to smirk slightly to her nonchalance. Most of the year had led her to being infuriated by the other woman and she felt her greatest dream had come true- apart from reuniting with her beloved. Pointing to her eyes with two fingers before pointing them at his eye level, she reminded, "As long as you come back, mister."

Ratonhnhaké:ton chuckled to her enthusiasm but then again, she'd never been a fan of Clara. The recent news that she was leaving that week for New York had sent a majority of Davenport into early celebration, mainly their friends. Myriam had declared a stew night when the day came and promised to buy a keg of beer from the inn. Norris had promised to use dynamite to create an explosion of celebration. Caroline wouldn't tell that one to Ratonhnhaké:ton since he was kind and was likely the only friend Clara had in town.

"I would never run from you" he vowed to settle any nervous jitters from his partner that he would stray from her. He'd be a fool to even dare it and wouldn't disrespect her either. She had been in his heart for many years and he would not look at anyone else in the same manner. All he saw was her from the moment their gazes met.

"Blame my little insecurities" she admitted sheepishly since she hadn't been the most ladylike upon returning to Davenport. Her red hair made her stand out in a crowd which was not ideal when fair and dark hair were the majority. Her way of dressing and wayward lifestyle didn't play in favor of marriage potential and she muttered flatly, "I'm aware I'm not the most glamorous-"

"Neither am I" he pointed out simply because he didn't dress like other colonists in town. Achilles had repeatedly told him to dress like one and fake an identity but he rarely did so. He already struggled enough to figure out what world he belonged to when both eyed him warily. He attempted to blend both by dressing like colonists but he added accents of his native culture to never forget it. Otherwise, it would be an insult to his mother.

Caroline chuckled to the vote of confidence as they fit outside the circles of normalcy for their times. Separate, they were lonely outsiders but together, they built a strong partnership. He didn't want a glamorous woman that would stay at home or enjoy socials that placed him in the heart of colonial life. He didn't see himself living in the cities but in the woodlands where he was free to roam and raise a family away from conflict.

Crossing her arms, her gaze swept downwards as she scanned his form and teased playfully, "Yes, but you're dashing and handsome."

"To you" he reminded dryly because most people backed away when they glimpsed at him and the rest scurried off once they saw his weapons. Colonial women might see him as intriguing due to his native exoticness, but he would be expected to assimilate into their life. The women in his clan would be similar but he would be chastised for continuing to immerse himself in colonial life. In Caroline, he found a medium as she allowed him to frolic in both worlds and accepted him for who he was without question. Shaking his head to her cocky little smile, he pointed out with distaste, "Have you not seen people cross the streets when they see me?"

He was different indeed but instead of being repelling, he allured her with the strength of a magnet. He was almost superhuman to her with his strong ties to the earth and sea, not to mention his lack of fear with heights. Shooting him a wink, she smiled warmly to reply, "My eyes are mainly on you and potential danger."

"You keep trying to make me blush" he chided gently since he'd forgotten her charming nature from years prior. She had quipped friendly jokes onboard the Aquila but nowadays, they shifted to innocent flirtations.

Her smile widened into a grin at hearing that sheepish disclosure and she asked confidently, "Is it working?"

"I should go" he chuckled softly to her cheeky smile and drew her by the left hand for an embrace. Caroline didn't hesitate to clutch him close around his broad shoulders and leaned forward to kiss him. He paused in the middle of it since her family could be wandering about and wanted to avoid drawing attention. That, or a motherly broom swat from Catherine. Promising to return to her, he kissed her forehead and smiled, "I will see you soon."

"Supper?" she piped up because now that they were home, he would be a regular guest in hers. He had missed being in her home that summer and gladly accepted the invite.

"What should I bring?" he asked softly to share food because he wouldn't be gluttonous by eating and providing nothing in return.

She shrugged uncertainly because it was his presence that was more important and offered, "A loaf of bread?"

That was all she wanted? Bread? He would bring her something better and informed, "I'll bring more for your family."

Ratonhnhaké:ton arrived at the Mile's End towards the end of the packing for the trip home. The innkeepers had taken it upon themselves to pack for the grandchildren but he wouldn't let the elderly couple lift more than they needed to. Oliver was more than happy for another hand, mainly for Clara's trunks, because his back was not having it. He was not a healthy vibrant man in his 20s anymore and let that honor fall to his grandson, who was not happy to the amount of luggage from his sisters.

The woman in question had avoided Ratonhnhaké:ton like the plague and pretended they had never even met. Initially, he believed she had heard the gossip about him and Caroline but her indifferent expression betrayed that idea. Walter had also filled in the gaps by informing that she had been insulted by his rejection and her response to that was faking obliviousness to a man's existence. That was fine with Ratonhnhaké:ton but he wouldn't forget the insult after being more than welcoming to her upon arrival. Even when Caroline had been furious with him, she acknowledged him with respect despite their shaky ground.

Oliver was in the middle of thanking Ratonhnhaké:ton and inviting him for supper when the innkeepers flinched to Clara's sharp voice. It carried none of the sweetness Ratonhnhaké:ton had heard over the past months and only added further evidence to what Caroline called her true face.

"Walter, where are your trunks?" Clara demanded as she realized only hers and Mary's were loaded. Had he forgotten to pack? Did he think she wasn't serious about leaving? She'd made it very clear that they were leaving by noon and wasn't going to delay it. She had already written their parents ahead of time and their wagon for the ride to Boston was already there. Their parents were already on their way to the city to pick them up in their own carriage so they couldn't afford to be late. Picking up dust as she approached him, she glared heatedly at him before chastising, "What were you thinking not packing on time? Aren't you the older responsible one?"

"Actually, I wrote back home to tell them I'm staying" Walter informed casually as he placed his hands in his pockets to walk away from his enraged sister. He had quite enough of his siblings and enjoyed the carefree nature of the town, seeking to linger there. His maternal grandparents were jolly folk and he had a girl keen on him, plus a job! The best part would be no sisters to heckle him. What else could he need? Shrugging lightly, he deliberated further without concern, "The quiet outdoors and managing the inn with grandpa is ten times more entertaining than a shop in the city. You wouldn't believe the stories I hear out here and the people you meet."

"You want to live here? In this place?" she sneered with disgust to the place that attracted his interest. What could he possibly enjoy here? It was dusty, it smelled like hay, the people were droll, and she had to walk everywhere. There was nothing exciting except watching clouds pass by and her nose wrinkled as she declared, "It's nothing like back home!"

"Exactly!" her brother answered with delight as the town drew him like a moth to a flame. He wasn't as vocal as his sisters as he preferred to observe things and then make his comments. So far, they had been great towards Davenport. Pointing to the surprised Oliver, he smiled to his cheerful grandpa to say, "Besides, I don't hear our grandparents complaining."

"Of course not, my boy!" Oliver agreed wholeheartedly because he missed the company of his family. Having his grandson work alongside him that year had helped their inn considerably and bonded the two. He knew the day that the children would leave was upon them but hoped that the eldest would stay longer. Happy to have another Miller under the roof, he wrapped an arm around the young man's shoulders and cheered, "I'll teach you the in's and out's of this place!"

Clara wasn't playing the happy game because she was insistent of returning her whole family back home. How could he think he'd enjoy living out here? There was no modernity in the country! Ignoring her grandparent's excitement, her pale eyes narrowed and she snapped, "Walter, don't be foolish! Get in the wagon."

"No, I've made up my mind" he shot back to defend himself against the endless criticisms. The favoritism shown for his sisters back home wouldn't be missed by him either. He had been more than ready to move out of his parent's home but had yet to find a decent place. Finding the true of comfort of home at the inn, he waved her away and granted her his birthright, "You can run the store, my place is here."

"Oh, my heart is bursting with joy!" Corrine exclaimed perkily since she'd heard the ruckus as she brought a basket of food for the girls to enjoy on the road. Handing the basket to Mary, who was surprised to even handle such a thing, the elderly cook grabbed her grandson into a tight hug with promise, "My dear boy, you'll be running this place in no time."

"You're more than welcome to stay" Oliver encouraged to let him know there was no time limit on his stay. The young man had already earned his keep by waking up early to help him open the inn and gather ingredients for their meals. It appeared the love for running a tavern had skipped a generation but that was fine by him. Clapping him on the back, he suggested enthusiastically, "We can even find you a homestead!"

"See? I've got everything I need" Walter smiled proudly on his choice to stay and nodded to his sisters in farewell, "You can return to the city."

Clara clenched her fists and refrained from screaming to hearing his refusal to return home. He wanted to stay there with the country bumpkins?! Fine! She would run the shop herself and ensure it was left to her in their father's will. He could keep the blasted inn in the middle of nowhere for his disobedience and pointed to the wagon to order briskly, "Let's go, Mary!"

The young girl said nothing as she was oblivious to the fighting and quietly followed her elder sister into the wagon. Ratonhnhaké:ton watched in amusement as Clara struggled to lift herself into the back of the covered wagon due to her heavy skirts. Fiddling with her emerald skirt to avoid dirtying it, she turned around to peer at him for the first time that day and asked sweetly, "Would you mind helping a lady, dear Connor?"

Ratonhnhaké:ton pointed to himself and pretended to be oblivious to her request, "Are we on speaking terms again now that I'm useful to you?"

Walter couldn't help but laugh to the direct slight at his sister and Clara growled with annoyance to being denied help. Ratonhnhaké:ton was aware it wasn't nice on his part but he wasn't the one who decided to ignore others. Clara muttered expletives under her breath as she miraculously managed to hop into the back of the wagon and disappeared into it. Mary lifted the basket by herself to shove it inside for safekeeping and the young girl yelped when her sister yanked her inside in one sharp pull.

It was safe to say that everyone breathed in relief when the wagon began moving.

Caroline never felt such immense relief when she spotted the wagon moving south of the inn and past Lance's home to head down the main road. Her year had been soured by a woman that threatened to steal her oldest friend and she wasn't shy in admitting she felt no melancholy to her leave. If anything, she was ready to throw a celebration for the liberation!

Ratonhnhaké:ton had not offered to guide the wagon to Boston out of fear of earning his partner's wrath. Caroline, however, had no qualms about it as she placed her trust in him. He had promised to stay true to her and quite frankly, the sooner they left Davenport, the sooner she could cheer. Their town would return to normalcy and she hoped any new residents would contribute more than nagging.

"I can't believe they're finally leaving!" Elizabeth sighed with relief as she sat on their white fence, chewing on a large blade of grass. Caroline leaned against it as she stood to watch the wagon fade down the road, leaving Davenport. She hoped that only the girls had left or Martha would be crushed to see her suitor leave. Their sister had refused to come outside to watch the wagon and stayed indoors to keep herself occupied with chores.

"Same here, it's almost surreal" she agreed softly with a smile that she would no longer encounter the other woman and echoed Elizabeth's sigh. Their stay had meant to end in the late summer but they had lingered, whether out of Walter's eye for her sister or Clara's for her partner. Faking a shudder, she shook her head and admitted, "Part of me dreaded that they'd choose to stay."

"I don't think she'd want to ruin her pretty dresses" her sister laughed impishly because she wouldn't miss the fashion commentary whenever she visited the Mile's End. Last time, she'd flung a potato wedge at Clara's back but Martha caught the flying tater before it could land. Tapping her feet on the fence, she added in with a sneaky grin, "I also think Corrine was getting tired of Mary's tantrums."

"That's one less problem for us now" Caroline chuckled into her hands as she felt freedom to be herself in the open roads again. Not to mention, visit the Mile's End more often. Tapping her chin in sudden afterthought, she looked to her sibling and muttered, "I hope Ratonhnhaké:ton told them New York was recently on fire."

Both sisters burst into laughter for what awaited the other two sisters in their glamorous life back home.

---

28 October 1776

Haytham was enjoying his one day off where he told all his subordinates to fuck off (in a much more polite way) to enjoy himself. He had been digesting a recent novel that had been raved about that entailed star-crossed lovers from two social classes, bitterly laughing at the irony. He knew one of the characters had to die, it was a given, but he decided to torture himself through it or Charles would never stop asking whether he read it. Why had he picked it? Good question. Haytham regretted the day he allowed for the Templars to form a book club as a form of raising intelligence and providing a relaxing hobby. So far, the picks in novels hadn't been enlightening.

I've had more fun watching a ship burn, he thought dryly as he reached the center of the fat book. He wanted nothing more than to toss it in the burning fireplace across from him but he'd made a deal.

The doors to his study burst open but he simply glanced over with little interest. If anybody were stupid enough to enter their current stronghold, that would be the worst way to bring attention to oneself. Did they think he never carried a weapon on him at all times?

Don't tell me it's my idiot son, he thought with aggravation to having his day off thwarted by his own estranged family. He had only met the young man once and pegged him as an idealistic boy that was easily molded by his enemies. Quite frankly, he had expected better from his offspring.

"Grandmaster."

Turning to his left to face the door, he was ready to lecture the intruder about proper manners. Instead, he found himself mildly surprised to find Shay Cormack in the doorway. Well, if it wasn't the ex-Assassin turned Templar. Hadn't he sent him off on a mission a month ago? Had he finished that quickly? Hmm, maybe he should recruit more Assassins to betray their order. That would be the quickest way to end the Assassin threat.

"Color me intrigued" he spoke quietly and motioned for the man to enter his study. With a careless glance, he tossed the book over his shoulder and hoped it tore to give him an excuse for not finishing it. He wouldn't blame the guards outside for not stopping Cormac but severely strip their ranks to nothing more than rookies. It was more humiliating than death and he needed numbers in this fight now that his blasted son decided to wave the Assassins flag around.

Standing up from his seat, he turned to face his subordinate and questioned, "To what do I owe this visit?"

Shay didn't hesitate to deliberate since he was aware his boss had important things to do. He had been in the area on the way to a mission and had dropped by to drop off news. Ever since joining the Templars, he hadn't looked back and kept carrying on with their work. His focus was the Precursor pieces and he explained carefully, "I've gathered intel that the Precursor box is in France so I am heading to Paris tomorrow. It is easier to depart from this port so I made the detour to arrive by December instead of next year. I am not sure how long I will be abroad, but I wanted to tell you in person. Less paper trails."

That was good news to hear. He had sent the man after them but they were elusive to find. While he worked on getting access to the Grand Temple, he sent others to retrieve pieces related to Eden. After experiencing the dangers of the item, he reminded firmly, "Get the box without another cataclysm."

"There's also another potential problem I've been tracking" Shay brought up since his old ties to the Assassins had resurfaced recently. He was concerned to the apparent rise in Assassin resistance growing in the colonies and found it odd. Investigating into his old roots, he had found information that would interest his leader.

"Out with it" Haytham stated simply to get to the point instead of running around in circles. He was a direct person and preferred to finish problems quickly and tidy. If it was a serious problem, he would intervene directly.

"I had one of my spies scope what remained of Davenport" he informed carefully to his secret surveillance to the old isolated homestead for the past year. Undertaking such a mission was risky for himself in case anyone recognized him so he'd sent one of his own subordinates. He was incredibly lucky in finding a family tie which made it easy for his spy to blend in. With winter arriving soon, however, his spy could not tolerate the place longer and had left earlier than anticipated. Still, he managed to grab enough intel and deliberated, "I'm aware there is a resurgence of Assassins and I wondered if they originated from there. By all accounts it appears like a town-"

"I'm fairly certain there's a but in there somewhere" Haytham interjected because otherwise, they would not be speaking about a ghost town. Had the Assassins decided to return to their old headquarters? Is that where his son lived?

"She verified Achilles is alive as well and his native protégé that's been causing a ruckus also lives there" Shay revealed matter-of-factly as he held out a folded paper with information related to his findings. The homestead had become a thriving town but the residents were complete civilians. If his grandmaster wanted to strike, he could easily end the threat with careful planning. Haytham took the slip of paper into his hand as Shay finished, "She tried her best at keeping him occupied and out of our hair but he is stubborn. He is quite the good Samaritan when he's not trying to foil our plans. The town has shown no signs of alliance to their lot so they are cleared civilians."

Great, he's horrible at gathering female attention too? Am I sure he's mine?, he questioned with dismay to his apparent lack of female charm. The boy was a little dry for his taste but he figured that was due to their animosity as enemies. He was headstrong like himself though and he added in afterthought, I meant no disrespect, Kaniehtí:io.

Haytham questioned the results of the extensive surveillance as he read the page full of information. It appeared the spy had managed to keep an eye on his wayward son. Glancing at the other man skeptically, he asked grimly, "Why didn't she eliminate him? Remove the threat and leave the civilians."

"My subordinate is meant for gathering intel, not fighting" he answered quietly because not many had been keen on a long assignment. At the same time, his spy had been the ideal choice due to having family in the isolated countryside. After promising no harm would befall them, he let her carry on and she had done a good job. The woman in question also had a short temper and he admitted with slight embarrassment, "Also, I'd rather keep her there. . . away from shiny objects."

"Next time, send someone with multiple skill sets" Haytham advised bluntly because their spies were meant to be efficient, not restricted in skill. It appeared he would have to examine the subordinates under Cormac to ensure they met his qualifications.

Shay didn't want to disappoint his leader after his find and informed quickly, "I will be leaving, sir, but I can send-"

"Forget it, I'll handle it" he sighed under his breath to tackling another matter but this one was delicate. On one hand, he could kill off the Assassins and end the threat or manipulate the war to convince his son to join them and then end the threat. He wasn't keen on killing civilians but if they intervened in his plans, it was simple fodder for a better world. If his son cared about them, he could draw him in by using them as playing cards.

"That's all, I wanted to confirm this information with you before I left" he finished quietly with renewed vigor to find the blasted Precursor Box. He didn't want to appear inefficient in any way after everything he'd gone through and couldn't wait to board the ship east. He might just stay in France among the Templars and forget the colonies altogether. Everything smelled like wet dog nowadays with the rain season.

Haytham nodded respectfully to let him carry on his way and replied, "Safe journeys and do not fail."

Shay understood the warning clearly and turned around to leave the study without another word. The former Assassin almost crashed into Charles on his way out as the other Templar returned from a chore. Had they been expecting company? Curious to the man's visit, he leaned into the open doorway to ask inquisitively, "What's that about, sir?"

Haytham crushed the read paper in his hand before chucking it at the fireplace behind his back. Memorizing the intel had been easy and he didn't want to leave a paper trail for anyone. This would be his secret to deal with when the time came and he replied nonchalantly, "Nothing, just assigning a mission."

His tone changed the next second as his interrogative tone took over and he questioned, "Where were you this whole time?! I could've been killed a hundred times if it was anyone worthy."

Charles cringed under the strict glare sent his way because he slipped in his duties in favor of another. There was only one other entity that could rival Haytham's importance in his life and he admitted sheepishly, "My Pom needed her walk."

"I need to ban pets in this Order" Haytham muttered under his breath because the little fur ball never stopped yipping in his presence. It was tame under Charles but once he walked in, it transformed into a terrorizing fur ball.

Charles held back an appalled gasp to hearing such a thing and quickly ducked out of the doorway to let his leader carry on by himself.

---

A/N: Whoo, managed to write up this baby by my time frame. I'm eager to end the year of 1776 and stroll into 1777 that's more focused on the couple and life in Davenport. The next chapter should hopefully be the last one to end that year before the seafaring couple head to Oak Island. Clara's exit in the story is not as climactic as I would've liked it to have been but as it's revealed, she had an ulterior motive for keeping Connor focused on her. Those Templars are sneaky, lol. Thank you for the concerned reviews since much has changed within the month of my last post worldwide. The ongoing issue on the front lines in many hospitals is still the lack of proper gear and although my unit finally received some, we took it upon ourselves to protect each other by purchasing and making our own gear since we're spending 12+ hours in direct patient care. On the bright side, getting ready for work is much faster now that only my eyes are visible- ha. I hope everyone is doing well worldwide and stay safe with frequent handwashing, social distancing, and face masks.

Thank you as always to my readers and my last reviewers!

Taylor115: Haha, then this chapter is definitely the best to read to finally get Clara out for good. Everyone calls Connor the Lord of the Manor so I'm sure Caroline's not far from being called the Lady of Davenport, haha. Thank you for investing yourself into the characters of this story and your babies will definitely be ok now as they travel through the storyline.

Chriswill02: I'm glad you are recovering well from your surgery! Even as the writer, I can't wait for Haytham to fully come into the story but I couldn't help myself from adding him at the end of this chapter.

East Coast Captain: Thank you, the two needed a little romance after everything they'd gone through. I had to research the wedding traditions for Scottish and Mohawk cultures since theirs will be a blend in comparison to the other characters in the story. Norris and Myriam will marry first so Connor will get an idea of what it takes for a wedding ceremony which sets off anxiety but not as bad as Myriam's, lol. They all live in a humble town so thankfully, nobody is marrying someone for the sole purpose to inherit land or money into the family.

Faron Oakenshield: Haha, thank you. They can be adorable now that they're back together and once Haytham realizes they're an item, it'll be incessant teasing.

Jojorichief: It was definitely a roller coaster for the two and a LOT of chapters. Now they're finally on their road to building a life and it's not stopping.

LilyQuix: It can be a struggle when you hit a bump in the story and you're trying to piece it together to flow smoothly. I love outlining each chapter and then filling out each part to make the entire chapter come together. I've applied the same tactics when writing papers except that I love writing this even more in comparison to nursing research. There will be a lot of wedding chimes towards the end of 1777 in Davenport and I'm loving that everyone wants Haytham in the story. I hope you get the writing bug to kick those chapters out!

Next Chapter Excerpt:

"I received a letter from Aveline" he informed carefully to an update on their mutual friend and she grabbed his hands with a happy smile. Back to business, as usual, but she didn't mind it. He didn't hesitate to involve her in his secret life and explained, "She's searching for a man with leads in New York so she will be stopping by here. Although, I wonder why she didn't go straight to the city and have us meet her there?"

"I sent a letter inviting her here for Christmas?" she supplied innocently to her planning behind the scenes and he sent her a questionable look. What happened to no secrets between them? She was having the assassin travel to them instead of her mark? Caroline shrugged to slide by his suspicious eye to answer matter-of-factly, "What? We're avid pen pals now."

A switch went off in his mind at hearing that information and Ratonhnhaké:ton blurted, "Wait, is that why Stephane asked how many pigs would feed the town?"

"I also invited your Boston friends?" she revealed truthfully to what she'd been doing in her spare time. With winter arriving early, she'd stayed up to write letters to their friends to have them join them for the holidays. All had accepted her requests and she'd spoken to the innkeepers about having spare rooms set up for them. The only person in store for the surprise was him as she smiled brightly, "I figured Christmas would be merrier with all of us!"

"Are you trying to make this the headquarters of the Assassins?" he asked suspiciously to her secret plans, amused by her attempt to bring everyone together. She hadn't given away any hints of such a visit so she was a tight vault in keeping secrets.

"That was decades ago" she reasoned quickly to such an idea because this was a spur of the moment idea due to the holidays. Still, having a remote place in the outdoors to upkeep their skills could prove advantageous. He shot her another knowing glance for being privy to that old information and she flashed him another innocent smile, "I've been talking to Mr. Davenport in my spare time."

She's too good at this already, he thought with amusement to her information gathering skills but she'd been in their midst since 1774. If he truly taught her everything he knew, would she match him equally? Or would she be targeted heavily by his enemies for it?

"He might chase you away from our Order" he joked dryly to Achilles' view on how Assassins should behave and leaned back against the foot of the couch. Caroline laughed to his sarcasm and the adorable frown on the lips, shaking her head to the idea of abandoning him. Crossing his arms, he glanced at the burning fire across from them and muttered, "He has not been the most agreeable with my methods this year."

"Staying in the shadows and sabotage would work better than public attention" she advised because it would allow them to remain hidden and avoid detection. If his plans or his associates were discovered, that was it. The endgame was to end the Templar forces in the colonies and find a way to keep them from returning. At least, in their lifetime. He frowned to hearing her side with Achilles' choice in strategy and she pointed out gently, "Not that you're doing that, I'm merely mentioning my preference."

She was bringing everyone together so she could have different viewpoints to study, not just his and Achilles. He should approve that and let her roam with a mind full of ideas instead of frown, right? Tucking a strand of auburn hair behind her ear, he advised carefully, "Seeing as you've invited my assassins, you can have all your questions answered."

"Or merely come together for the holidays" she reminded simply because every meeting didn't mean it was business related. They were free to enjoy time as friends as well, just like they did with the Davenport residents. Leaning back against the couch, she crossed her legs as she proposed, "Bonds are quite powerful and the closer you are to your assassins, their loyalty will not waver. Look at us."

"You are my most loyal yet you stick to the outskirts of this Order" he pointed out to her unwavering loyalty, treasuring her trust in him. Four months had passed since he revealed the truth but she was quietly studying their order instead. There was no agreement to join them and he would let her take her time because it meant she wouldn't fall into the crossfire.

"I'm loyal to you" she declared with emphasis that she followed him and nobody else. His ideals had been closely tied to hers since childhood and they failed to change. They were becoming wiser with the brutality of their world but they remained grounded in their beliefs. Wrapping her hands around his right forearm, she leaned over to kiss his freckled cheek.

He smiled gently to her affection, returning a soft kiss to her lips, and pointed out quietly, "You're in it by mere association."

Caroline scoffed dismissively to his claim but nudged her shoulder with his to tease, "Please, I can't leave my handsome outdoorsman all alone."

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Thank you for reading!