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.

66. Alternate Methods

Alternate Methods

---

25 April 1778

I have been reunited with my father, but do not yet know if this bodes well or ill. Our goals are aligned, at least so far as independence is concerned. But he continues to defend Charles Lee—the man who murdered my mother and burned my village... Still, he makes a point about Washington and those who back him. I hear much talk of freedom and equality, but it seems one must be a landed white man to benefit. What of someone like me? Or Surry? What happens to any children Caroline and I have? What role for us, for them, in this new world? Is my father right, then? There is so much I must consider and so little time in which to do it.

"You're ruminating again" Caroline teased gently, disrupting his pensive journaling, and she patted his left shoulder with a fond smile. She could hear the quiet but quick scratching of ink on paper and decided to check in on him. He could write for an hour on his thoughts alone, finding his internal purging on paper interesting since it focused on his worries.

Ratonhnhaké:ton returned his ink quill back to its ink bottle to pause his writing temporarily and take a rest. He and Caroline had returned home in the late afternoon, leaving Faulkner to oversee the disembarking, cleaning, and maintenance for the Aquila. They tried their best to leave their cabin neat and tidy to remove extra work for the crew, removing the linens to wash them at home. Caroline was hasty in her steps to return to their cabin, overjoyed to see their cabin home in pristine shape. The snow was a light coat now against the earth rather than the fluffy thick blanket and mounds that they left back in January.

Caroline wasted no time in checking every room to reacquaint herself visually with her beloved home. It was apparent her mother had visited because she found no cobwebs in the corners, her porch was freshly swept, and dust was void inside her home. She told her mother to leave the linens alone and she sighed with a loving smile at seeing brighter powder blue curtains in her kitchen and main room, not to mention new linen. Now that she and Martha were gone, their mother would sew knickknacks for their homes to show her love when extra food couldn't be sent. Davenport was their safe haven and all of the stress inside that lurked every time she went to sleep on the Aquila faded away. Here, there was no fear or need to look over her shoulder.

Her husband, on the other hand, was already on the move to plan on bridging a new road with his father. While Caroline tended to their home, he surveyed their livestock and the perimeter of their homestead. Their horses were well-fed and groomed by their sassy Elizabeth while Alice cared for the chickens. They were fortunate to have a caring family to depend on when they were away from home. Ratonhnhaké:ton refused to give in to his exhaustion from the long months out at sea, preparing for the next step, and told his wife, "The future is uncertain."

"We'll take it one day at a time" she soothed gently to calm the wooden wheel spinning in his head and squeezed his shoulders. They had just arrived home so she would not let him slide out of their sanctuary by dawn. Otherwise, he would find himself sitting down in front of her for a heart-to-heart talk. Ratonhnhaké:ton mulled over the thought with a small frown but reminded himself that his decisions affected her as well. He couldn't run off in a day like he had as a bachelor and expect her to be fine with it. Right? She flicked the back of his left ear like she did to her siblings when impulsion flared and reminded, "Isn't that the Mohawk way?"

"I've taught you well" he smiled softly to her jest since time was accounted for differently among his tribe. He still remembered the conversation with her about colonial 'years' compared to Mohawk 'seasons' during their first year of knowing each other. She never left his side as promised and he was happy to be back in their shared home. He grasped her waist to offer a fond squeeze before standing up out of his chair, meeting her gaze to smile, "You are a good woman for accepting my culture."

"Let's leave all this dreariness behind" she proposed brightly, cupping his face with both hands to kiss him on the lips. Being home filled her with happiness but she also needed to see her family and make sure they were well. A lot could happen in three months and everyone would rest easy with an update. Winters were harsh in Davenport and Alice usually spent them sick, which was why she needed to drop off a jug of apple cider and molasses. Now that Martha was married, she had to drop in and visit her as well. Her expression softened with concern filling her eyes and she voiced quietly, "Besides, I'm eager to see my family again."

Despite moving away from her childhood home, she could never forget where she began. Regardless of how much she aged, her family would always take a large spot in her heart. The other half was for her husband. He looked around the study where they kept none of their souvenirs for the family and pointed towards the kitchen. Apart from the trinkets, he always brought them something edible and he pointed out, "We can't go emptyhanded."

Caroline already prepared for that while he tidied up the outside of their home and grinned, "I have all our souvenirs packed away and I made a quick cheese potato casserole."

Before he could ask how she procured all those ingredients, she added in happily, "Still had potatoes in storage and I used the leftover cheese from New York."

---

Caroline latched on to the first person that opened the door, which happened to be Amelia. The shorter redhead squeaked in surprise to the red blur flying at her but once she recognized the happy laughter of her older sister, she returned the hug happily. Now that they lived separately, she missed the company sorely and having her away on trips made the weeks even longer. Their time together was spent on a morning walk to the school and weekly dinners were all they had when she was free. Amelia managed to open the door fully, dragging her sister inside with her right arm, while waving her brother-in-law inside with the other.

Ratonhnhaké:ton was not surprised by the open display of affection and walked into the Burnett home. The small cabin was a haven of warmth and love upon entering, a trait that never changed despite the years. They were all growing older but the bonds of family never changed. He walked on eggshells around his father for most of their time together but he never felt that with the Burnetts. With the evening upon them in a few hours, Catherine was already at work by the fireplace to make dinner.

"We're back, Mrs. Burnett" he spoke up politely to announce their presence and the redhead jumped back away from the fire. She had expected one of the neighbors at the door asking for sugar or eggs, not her children. Dropping her wooden spoon in the bubbling pot of chicken stock, she left the fireplace and approached the couple. She smoothed her powder blue skirt to tidy up quickly before walking over to hug him with a warm smile. He was quite lucky to have a maternal figure in his life, apart from his beloved mother, who never left his side.

"I'm so glad to see you both safe" she sighed happily to their good health and noticing no new scars or bruises. After the first month, she began to worry until receiving a letter from Caroline that alleviated the motherly concern. Communication was a rarity for families that were colonies or a sea apart but she appreciated the sparse letters from her daughter. Releasing Ratonhnhaké:ton, she hobbled over to switch with Amelia to hug her oldest child. Now that all her children were home in Davenport, she could rest easy at night. Caroline clutched her mother tightly and chuckled when her mother piped up excitedly, "I just received your letter from Virginia. Wasn't expecting you back just yet."

"We will never speak of Virginia" Ratonhnhaké:ton told his wife to the strangest adventure in his career. Caroline, on the other hand, still ranked the creepy mansion from the Bahamas as number one. He barely slept a few hours during their stay at his father's homestead, mainly because he worried the townsfolk would return. His wife, on the other hand, slept on through while snuggled up against him. That part, he didn't mind.

Catherine had no idea what he meant but her daughter laughed aloud, telling her with glee, "You won't believe the story we'll tell you."

Before she could regale the women with their tale of adventure, Ratonhnhaké:ton broke in to state frankly without enthusiasm, "We met my father, which led to a partnership in chasing a culprit to the islands down south, all onboard the Aquila on a roundtrip."

"Spoilsport" she sighed dramatically at being stopped from strolling through memory lane but respected it. After all, he had dealt with a lot of emotional unpacking which was not easy to handle with a father that chided you more than halfway through the trip. She winked at him to let him know she would follow his lead since this was his burden to bear. Turning to her mother, she inquired eagerly, "Is boban still at the mill?"

"He'll be home, orders are switching from firewood to foundation beams with spring coming in" she replied perkily to the nonstop orders that kept their mill running smoothly and put food on the table. With Caroline living on her own and being off at sea, Patrick and Samuel picked up the slack to keep the family touch in the business. The years were passing by and she was pleased to see her children growing into their professions.

A fast pitter-patter of footsteps bounded up the hallway and she heard jovial voices call out, "Carrie!"

Ratonhnhaké:ton refrained from covering his ears when his wife squealed into the garble of voices. It was almost like a holiday reunion with the way she flew at Elizabeth, Alice, and Samuel. Amelia offered an apologetic expression since her younger siblings were more energetic with visitors. Caroline hugged her younger siblings, wrapping them all into one hug like she'd done when they were little. She missed them greatly, even while living at home, and sighed aloud, "All that is missing now is Martha opening the door with a frying pan."

"Don't worry, visiting her home will make it come true" Elizabeth told her with an impish laugh to their wary sister, though she had developed a fantastic backbone. The childhood and adolescent turbulence between them was gone to leave sisterly jesting. She was now teaching her how to handle a rifle so she could protect her home from predators or worse, thieves.

Caroline released her siblings to gaze at them with a fond smile, melancholy to have left for so many months. They weren't little and dependent on her anymore but her love and worry would never waver for them. Samuel and Alice were quickly growing to meet her height while Elizabeth was a few fingers shy of hers. The three were dressed in their casual attire in neutral earth colors to hide the stains from dirt, soot, and spilt liquids. Ruffling the hair of her youngest sibling, who groaned miserably to the old habit, she asked, "Why aren't you at the mill?"

"Someone has to bring in the livestock for the night" he piped up proudly with a puffed chest to show off his new chores at home. With his sisters married off, his mother needed an extra hand whenever his father could spare him. Between the work at the mill and picking up his father's chores, he was beginning to see the hard work spiel that his sister kept drilling into him. She had worked tirelessly to keep them warm, fed, and clothed when their parents worked outdoors and she was left to care for them alone. They didn't have the luxury of having a sitter or maid and made do with what they had. Now, he understood the background work of his family that he had been too little to grasp years ago.

"Never thought I'd see our little brother become responsible" Caroline chuckled warmly to his bravado, seeing that gumption streak that their family carried. Being the only son, her parents wealth would pass to him by current laws and she wanted him to be prepared for that weight. Neither she or her sisters would be happy if the mill was lost one day as they grew older and their parents weren't around. Time flew by faster than she could keep track of and she turned around to grin at her mother, "We didn't turn out so bad, did we, ma?"

Ratonhnhaké:ton pointed to himself in reminder that society would shun them at some point and Caroline fussed, "You're practically the town guv'nor so I'll hear no guff."

Despite the couple wore casual attire to return to civilian life, Catherine knew they were tired from the long trip. Their focus was always keeping their town safe and their own well-being came second. As a mother, Catherine would look over her little birds and offered, "Are you staying for dinner?"

He pointed to the wooden crate that he set down on a bench beside the door and joked gently, "We brought a few things to pay our way."

The small trio abandoned the couple to forage through the open crate, grabbing what food or trinkets excited them. Catherine shook her head with embarrassment, quickly chastising her children for casting aside their dignity. Amelia struggled not to laugh, keeping her own curiosity submissive, and focused on setting the table for their family meal. Caroline wagged her eyebrows at Ratonhnhaké:ton to show that their gifts, food or otherwise, could do no wrong. As her parents grew older, it would eventually fall to her to look over her family and she would not disappoint them.

"You two are always welcome here" Catherine laughed merrily to their spoiling, glad to have kind children that looked out for one another. Adulthood had yet to separate her married daughters from her but time could change one's life and lead them into distant lands. She hoped that would not befall her children after taking that leap herself to create a better future for her descendants. Looking at her children fondly, her decision to leave Scotland was not in vain and she asked her eldest, "Will you be home for spring?"

"Yes" she replied eagerly to settling in for the spring and enjoying her home. Her happiness wavered the next second when her husband faltered to agree and diverted his gaze away. Something was fishy. Her gaze intensified towards him, eyes narrowing for scrutiny and forcing herself not to blink. Ratonhnhaké:ton offered an apologetic look because he didn't know how long he would be able to stay in Davenport. If his father meant what he said, a truce would leave him there longer. However, in order to work on that truce, they needed to work together and build trust. She didn't like his silence at all, which was normally a comfort, and she questioned firmly, "What's that look you're giving me? Connor, we just came home."

Ratonhnhaké:ton had never heard his wife utter a complaint until now, his mind blank on how to proceed through that minefield. What was he supposed to do and say? Not to mention, in front of her family! The three youngest Burnett siblings gasped to hearing her use his common name and Elizabeth pretended to whisper to them, "She used his English name."

He needed a way out to regroup and handle the situation delicately. With her family beside her, she would be happy and calm easily with enough time. Or so, he hoped. There was still one matter he needed to tend to now that he returned and finding a suitable option, he suggested to her, "Why don't you stay with your family while I see Achilles?"

Caroline, however, was not one to fall for his evasion and crossed her arms. She wasn't angry or annoyed at him but rather, the possibility of running off again. Their home had been built to be lived in, not sit on land to be empty and void of life. They had been gone from home for three months and she would not be leaving within the month. Her blue eyes bore through his as he slowly backed away towards the door and she accused swiftly, "Don't you flee from me. I posed a valid question."

"I am strategically retreating" he replied truthfully, earning a deadpan stare from his spouse, and promised, "I will be back soon."

With that said, he quickly darted out of the home and shut the door promptly to prevent her following him. For the first time in his life, he never ran so fast from the Burnett household and headed for Achilles' mansion. Time away from each other would dissipate volatile emotions that could end with him sleeping in the main room or worse, the barn. Caroline withheld a sigh, closing her eyes briefly to repress her conflicted emotions.

"Did you two just have a fight?" Amelia asked awkwardly to the rapid turn of events. In all her years, she'd only seen the two bicker once and they were pretty private about it.

Caroline shook her head because it would take more than that for her to chase him down that hill. She needed clarification more than arguing, the latter which she was not looking forward to. They weren't argumentative people by nature but little bumps would eventually rise in their marriage. Waving her left hand, she dismissed the matter with a grin, "No, that usually results with a sit-down and carefully placed aromatic foods to sway opinion."

"Caroline" her mother chastised the sneaky tactics to gain a win from her opponent, pausing from tending to the hot frying pans. Amelia and Alice helped her set them on fabric pan holders to prevent damage to their dinner table. To stay out of the way but stick close as bystanders to hear the gossip, they pretended to watch over the food.

"You do it all the time with boban!" she justified snippily with blushing cheeks to being scolded. Why couldn't she do the same? Granted, her husband valued her contribution to the household like her father did but she needed a trick up her sleeve too. Elizabeth patted her on the back with a mischievous smile for blurting out their mother's subtle trick.

---

Ratonhnhaké:ton left one awkward situation to dive straight into another to make amends for the way he left things with Achilles. The man was his mentor and despite their different views on how the Order should work, there was respect for the one who took him in. Without him, he would have likely wandered to find the Templars headfirst and gotten captured or worse. He knew his origins and skin tone made him an outsider, similar to his mentor, and it was in everyone's best interest that they worked amicably. The criticisms from Haytham differed from Achilles' and though the former man was his father in blood, Achilles helped him find his way into adulthood and stood by him through the years.

The floorboards creaked under his feet as he approached the library where Achilles was often stationed. The years were gradually affecting his bones and movement, leading him to stay on the first floor. Without Ratonhnhaké:ton, the second floor now served more as storage and extra space for Assassin activities. He found the old man in the library as expected, noticing that he was writing a letter quite intently. He knocked quietly to announce his presence, hoping he wouldn't be kicked out. Achilles, on the other hand, simply acknowledged him and spoke calmly, "Welcome back. How was Martinique?

Ah, word reached him about his travel down south. He was not the type that enjoyed upsetting people that were close to him and now understood that Achilles behaved the way he did in order to protect him from getting killed. His father was not a person to underestimate and their first meeting left tension between them that was still quite fragile. Quite frankly, he wouldn't be surprised if his father dismissed his demise like old news. Glancing down at the ground like a scolded child, he began awkwardly with regret, "Achilles . . . I . . . I owe you an apology. It was wrong of me to say the things I did..."

His mentor waved his hand to dismiss the apology and he was surprised to hear him say, "Your words were harsh, Connor, but there was also truth there. I failed the Order. Allowed the Templars to take control . . ."

Ratonhnhaké:ton was relieved to hear no anger in his words and approached his desk to proclaim, "But now their hold is weakened, which makes me believe there's a chance for peace. Imagine what might be accomplished if we were to unite."

Achilles was surprised to his protégé's changed views after hearing his resolution to eliminate them at all cost. Now, he was willing to work with them? Why was that? He heard the rumors that flowed from New York when the Aquila set sail that Haytham Kenway was spotted in the same area. Had the two finally met? Curious to his shift in opinion, he asked carefully, "Why the change of heart? Where is this coming from? You've met your father, haven't you?"

Ratonhnhaké:ton shifted in his posture, giving away the truth, and wondered if he was crazy for dwelling on the truce. Caroline believed in him but his wife always did so – by the ancestors, was she furious with him? He really hoped not. Setting that potential problem off to the side temporarily, he focused on the Haytham problem. Achilles never lied to him and he admitted freely to his recent interaction, "In New York. I do not claim to trust the man—or even like him. But I would be remiss to ignore this opportunity."

He wanted to believe that there was a chance to bridge the disparity between both factions. What if they could create a better one utilizing the best of their ideals for society? His father was from the Old World while he was the face of the New World and his descendants would follow that road. They could create a new order that benefited all in the New World. Achilles, on the other hand, was doubtful that the Templars would simply turn a new leaf and proposed, "Haytham may listen. But will he understand? And even if he does, will he agree?"

Would being his son make a greater difference? They were not as antagonistic as before and he did agree to future collaboration. He thought it best to continue down that road while heads were still cool on both sides rather than let time drift them apart again. His father and Achilles didn't have the greatest relationship either, understanding his elder's skepticism. Still, he was determined to try and pointed out, "Even he must admit that we achieve more together than we do alone."

Achilles placed his trust in the young man's judgment and nodded to ask, "I assume you're off to find him?"

His protégé was not one to sit idly by and was constantly on the move. Unlike himself, he was in the prime of his life to tackle the enemy but peace was the objective this time. Ratonhnhaké:ton shifted his weight, crossing his arms, and murmured uncertainly, "Not yet. Caroline and I must tend to our homestead, then I will ride for New York to see what might be done."

His mentor quirked an eyebrow to his nervous undertone and Ratonhnhaké:ton caved instantly, shoulders drooping, to sigh with dismay, "She might also be mad at me for suggesting we leave again."

An Assassin's life was not meant for homemaking, especially during turbulent times, and it took an adjustment period for all couples. Achilles still remembered Abigail waving a frying pan at him and his old student would likely have one sent at some point as well. He might not have the best advice as an old Assassin but he had been a husband and father once. Caroline was in awe of Ratonhnhaké:ton from the moment they met and that spark never failed with age. However, their new roles begged transition on both sides and he suggested, "Take some time to reacquaint yourselves with your home. Sea life can be hard on the fairer gender."

Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded silently, grateful for the piece of advice. It was topics like this that he could never approach his father about or pretty much anything private. Achilles and Godfrey were his paternal figures, even old Mr. Miller, which he was fortunate to have on his side. Prudence had been his number one informant for Caroline's heart during their first courtship and his wife had been prodding him to start their garden with her help. He did have promises to upkeep in their marriage but the Order had to stay one step ahead of the Templars.

"I keep forgetting I'm not by myself on missions anymore" he admitted quietly to the change from being in a courtship to a true marriage. He had lived alone in his room on the second floor from the age of fourteen until his wedding day, which had been a swift change. He and his wife didn't blush anymore at undressing, falling into an easy predictable routine for their day. Their matter of opinion and joint decisions were the heaviest to keep afloat but Caroline heeded his judgment for the most part. It was only during the heat of battle when she would object to staying behind and now, at the chance of leaving promptly for New York. Shaking his head, he voiced aloud with uncertainty, "Before, she was a friend that accompanied me and stayed on the Aquila for most missions. It kept her safe while ground missions were prohibited out of respect for her parents. Now, she's my wife and is in direct combat as an Assassin which gives her access everywhere."

His greatest fear was having his wife injured on a mission, especially now that his father knew about their marriage. He hoped Haytham would keep his word on leaving Davenport alone but he'd repeated similar promises to others before shooting them. His new family was a primary reason to why he sought peace with the enemy, apart from the good it would do society. They wouldn't have to meddle in government affairs with a nefarious hand and hide in the shadows, killing each other while society at large knew nothing about their secret war. His own grandfather had been killed in his home by the enemy, so had his mother, and he didn't want his children witnessing the same. The cycle had to end at some point. Achilles broke him from his rumination by offering gently, "Have you suggested the former again?"

"My father tried it and she hurled a boot at his head" he answered dryly to the incident that sent his father into dramatic hollering for the threat. While he treaded lightly with his father in the physical department, his wife was quickly incensed when anyone dared to separate her from him. His father was not exempt and seeing a boot flung at his head was a new form of attack. While he expected the two to turn it into a physical or verbal altercation, they simply retreated to their separate corners like adults. He and his father, on the other hand, would spar like angry cats. A small smile touched his lips and he admitted with amusement, "I'm reluctant to say he respects her more than me."

"She's always been rather attached to you but it comes from a good place" he reminded matter-of-factly to their tight-knit friendship, which was a rarity in society. The Burnetts were a good family in opening the door to him with the children offering their friendship. The entire town suspected his affection for Caroline within a year and they were even more delighted when they became a couple. They were a solid team as spouses and naval officers but merely required time to assimilate all their roles. He had no doubt the two would solve their problem and he advised him in jest, "You might have to consider her for negotiations with your father."

Ratonhnhaké:ton was fortunate to find a woman who loved him and married him for that, not security or convenience. She never asked for very much and would give him her plate of food to keep him fed or a pelt to keep him warm. He did his best to offer the same and staying home was an easy gift for his wife's well-being. Realizing what his decision would be for the best outcome, he sighed softly, "I need to return that same care for her so I might be here for a bit."

"Give it two weeks at the least before you bring it up again" Achilles recommended because highly doubted Caroline would keep him hostage. The woman was likely tired from a long stressful trip and missed her home and the familiarity of it. He did not want to imagine the conversations between Haytham and Ratonhnhaké:ton that she was privy to.

"Thank you" he spoke earnestly for the advice and having their last conversation erased. He didn't want to have two people angry with him, it would plague him at night. Seeing that his mentor was busy with his writing, he decided to take his leave for the moment. He was glad for his time and wouldn't press on more than he needed to. Pointing to the right in regard to the road he would take, he offered helpfully, "Do you need anything from the store? I can drop it off."

Achilles appreciated the kind gesture to save his joints on uphill walks but Diana had already dropped off some groceries. If it wasn't her, Prudence or Catherine would drop by. He was proud of the little town that Ratonhnhaké:ton created through the years and smiled warmly, "I'm fine, go on."

---

The door to the Burnett homestead creaked open as Samuel answered the soft knock. Ratonhnhaké:ton met him on the opposite side with a wary gaze and he asked in a hushed whisper, "Am I still welcome?"

"The coast is clear" Samuel assured easily since his sister took to nibbling on bread after he left. There was no anger within his sister and he found it hilarious that his brother-in-law was so concerned with her. After years of watching the two wander the town together, he had only seen the two bicker once which was a feat. Today was nowhere near the maelstrom of last time and he opened the door fully to let him inside. Ratonhnhaké:ton stared at him with confusion and the redhead clarified with a cheeky grin, "It means you're fine."

"Are you sure?" he questioned skeptically to what lurked inside the homestead, hesitant to enter without more information. His wife was dangerous when angered but she was mainly pointed at enemies that needed elimination, not at himself. He wasn't ready for any kind of fight with her, already waving an imaginary white flag of surrender in submission. After bearing the silent treatment and painfully platonic words years ago during the Clara incident, he dreaded another repeat.

Samuel merely laughed to his cautious stance as he lingered by the doorway and promised, "Carrie might have a bark but she'd never bite, you least of all. She loves you too much to hurt you."

"I might not be taking her on the best of adventures so she might be inclined" he pointed out glumly to his slip in expression that unfolded his current misery. She was always keen on adventure but maybe he overstepped the decision-making by daring to undertake another excursion so quickly? He was accustomed to a traveling lifestyle from his youth but he had to remember his wife was now part of that package.

"Are you two talking about me?" Caroline's voice interrupted the duo when she spotted the two huddled by the doorway. Was her husband reluctant to enter her family home? Did he really think she was furious with him? He was a sweet man but still naïve in the world of marital communication.

Both men jerked back to her voice, caught unaware to her approach, and the redhead merely glanced at them with interest. Samuel took the leap to be his brother-in-law's human shield by blocking the path, intercepting his sister by grasping her shoulders. The redhead blinked awkwardly to their strange behavior, especially when her little brother stated aloud, "Remember, I was your kindest brother."

"You're my only brother" she pointed out dryly to his silly nature, patting his right hand to let him know everything was fine. The two were making her think they were secretly planning something. Last time, it was a horseshoe throwing competition during New Year's that everyone enjoyed. Her husband fit perfectly amongst her family, not that she had any doubt, and appreciated her brother for protecting him. Tapping his forehead, she reminded knowingly, "Whom I will always protect."

She sidestepped her sibling to close the distance to her spouse and Samuel waved a thumbs-up at Ratonhnhaké:ton. The older man did not feel as confident with each step his wife took towards him. Her body language didn't depict anger in its smooth relaxed gait and her facial expression leaned into amusement more than fury. Samuel backed away from the couple to give them a small area of privacy, returning to his sisters who were also bitten with curiosity about them. Catherine was quick to wave a clean spoon to draw all their attention back to setting the table but she too couldn't help but keep an eye on them.

"Am I in trouble?" Ratonhnhaké:ton asked worriedly, his usually calm voice breaking into a nervous pitch. He could face down a dozen men in an unfair fight but his wife alone gave him pause. Sure, he could kill dangerous enemies without a glance back but he had to return Caroline if she was ever incensed. Clasping his hands together, he requested one thing if they were headed that way, "Don't make me sleep in the barn. The hay gives me terrible sneezing fits."

"What? No!" she blurted with embarrassed laughter to such cruelty, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. There was tension in his frame and she squeezed him tightly to relax his unneeded worry. How a man that ran into battlefields fearlessly hesitated at having a squabble with her tickled her pink. That was enough to tell her of his respect for her. Fighting was the last thing on her mind after arriving home and she was working up an appetite. Loosening her grip, she met him at eye-level with a lift of her toes and stated frankly, "We've been gone for months, I don't want to leave my family within days of arriving."

She wasn't upset with her husband but more towards the situation that they were placed in during wartime. She worried for him when he ran off alone to tackle missions for the Patriots and he always promised to return to her. His youth had been wrapped up in seeing the Continental Army win to deal the Templars a blow strong enough to send them back across the sea. That mission now spanned eight years for him and it showed no sign of slowing down. She understood the critical timing of having Haytham join a truce that could lead to reshaping of both factions, maybe even true peace. However, the softer part of her heart simply wanted a month where she and her husband could simply live the life they promised each other on that cold December morning. To have time away from the dangers of the outside world to recuperate before returning once more.

"You won't" Ratonhnhaké:ton relented with solemn agreement to her concerns, deciding to stay in Davenport for now. Relief flickered through her eyes as she closed them momentarily, a faint smile touching her lips. He didn't want to pull her into situations she was not comfortable treading near but he still had business to conduct with their Order. Haytham was just one piece of that business and he reminded her quietly, "I will go to Boston to debrief with the others. It's not easy to gain intel while out at sea."

Caroline was quick to jump on the correction wagon for that mission and stated firmly, "We can go to Boston and return the same day, that can't be said about New York."

"I can have our New York agents keep an eye on the Templars" he compromised at seeing his partner drive a hard bargain, amused by her role as a wife overreaching the one of an Assassin. Still, she wasn't forcing him to stay rooted to Davenport. A day in Boston for just the two of them could lighten her mood and he added in nonchalantly, "Maybe secretly deliver a letter for my father."

"Only if it doesn't lead him to our brethren" she agreed carefully to protect their members because this truce wasn't set in stone. Although Ratonhnhaké:ton and Haytham might not be reaching for each other's throats, the same couldn't be said about their subordinates. They couldn't risk exposing their identities or whereabouts. She understood the importance of overseeing the movements of both sides, marking it as a priority. Despite Haytham claimed to know of Davenport, she didn't want to incite him to test that potential bluff and reminded, "Or us."

"We will stay here for a bit, Caroline" he promised to give his word on the matter and she nodded silently. Her heart lightened instantly to hearing it, bouncing on the heels of her feet with joy. Samuel and his siblings tried not to laugh at the distressed husband and his amused wife, finding it sweet. Releasing her from their embrace, he spoke sheepishly, "I don't want to upset you after your endless loyalty to me."

She could never be angry at him for wanting to do what's right but she didn't want him to forget their lives. They had to find a balance in their work and personal lives to prevent strain. Smiling with sympathy, she admitted to him, "Our home deserves to be lived in for more than our first month of marriage."

"I promise you a month" he guaranteed since they had been gone for months and the war was still raging. The stolen goods from the Continental Army were returned on their arrival to New York with their branch of the Order to ensure they arrived safely. They had a boost in ammunition, dry goods, and medicine for a short time. After retrieving those crates and going on wild goose chases and bickering with his father, they earned time to rest. He would not leave his wife unless absolutely necessary and silently prayed his father behaved.

"Let's have supper" she suggested kindly with a pull to his hands to lure him inside the home. She was aware everyone was watching them and didn't want them to think she was frightening her poor husband away. Their slight hiccup was resolved quickly and she would not poke extra attention towards it.

Ratonhnhaké:ton wondered if this was a good or bad thing, hesitating awkwardly, "Caroline-"

"I'm not upset, I simply want time at home" she admitted easily to hide nothing from him since they both hated guessing games. Having him worried over something small was also not something she liked. He already had enough to fret over and she squeezed his hands with a fond smile, "I've had enough adventures for now that I'm not ready to jump into another one. Please, my love, let us live our life in our home for just a little while before we head back into chaos."

"We will, calm your heart" he assured gently because he would stay home and run the Order from there. It would be a small reprieve before returning to New York and jumping back into danger. He understood her perspective of living at home in between dangerous missions to forget the brutality of reality that raged on both sides of the war. Frankly, he sought that peace as well but it wouldn't happen without action. He leaned forward to whisper privately between them, "Your happiness comes first."

Caroline blushed at that with her familiar happy smile and all was right with the world again. The knot in Ratonhnhaké:ton's stomach released and he relaxed to enter the home once more. Before he took a step, he heard heavy footsteps behind them from the hill path and Godfrey's voice called, "What's all this?"

The two broke apart from their private conversation and he stepped aside to avoid blocking the door. Caroline, on the other hand, leapt forward to hug her father jovially, "Boban!"

Despite the growing white hairs on his head, he wasn't blind at seeing the couple deep in conversation. His daughter was smiling by the end of it so that was the important part. Otherwise, he might have to play the inquisitive father bear. He was happy to see the two return safely from their trip at sea and stuck out his right hand while the left held onto Caroline. Ratonhnhaké:ton shook the man's hand with a firm nod because he would always return his wife to her family safe and sound. They weren't children anymore but that didn't stop the Burnetts from worrying about them.

"Are you ready for dinner?" Caroline asked excitedly with a peppy grin, amused to find her father smelling of pine. In all her years of knowing her beloved father, he always wore the scent of lumber when arriving home for a hug from her and her siblings. She would never want to admit it but her parents were growing older and manual labor was never easy on the body. She was glad to hear he had help from both Patrick and Samuel, the former who trailed behind Godfrey and carried more debris on his flannel shirt than his uncle.

Today had been a sawing day at the mill by the look of it and she tried not to smirk at their less than tidy appearance. Is that how she looked when she arrived home a year prior? Godfrey laid a hand on top of her head like he did during her childhood and answered warmly, "After a quick cleanup, I'll eat and feast upon your naval tales."

Both Caroline and Ratonhnhaké:ton breathed a sigh in relief when the patriarch headed indoors to announce his arrival. Being newlyweds, they were still not keen on talking about private marital problems with family. Waving in welcome at her cousin, she asked eagerly, "Heading north this summer?"

The summers usually sent Patrick north to help his uncle Joseph with harvesting but not this year. After seasons of work and saving while living at the Burnett homestead, he was ready to move out. He had been incredibly lucky and grateful to be taken in by his uncle for years so he would be lingering close by to lend a hand whenever they needed it. Glancing to the right where the entrance to Davenport lay in the horizon, he told her with pride, "No, my homestead is about to be underway next month."

"Congratulations!" she exclaimed to the good news and wondered if that was why her mother mentioned the extra lumber orders. Amelia was more than happy to stay in her family homestead while Patrick and Elizabeth planned to build their homes in Davenport. Caroline was glad to see another Burnett would be sticking around town and she winked at him to jest, "You'll have women flocking you for a ring."

He dismissed the idea with a fervent shake of his head and admitted bashfully, "If I can have a marriage like yours or uncle's, I'll be fortunate."

"Love and respect" Caroline spoke truthfully to the best traits of their relationship. Her parents raised her with what qualities to look for in a spouse and the same was likely being ingrained in Patrick. Burnetts were not dull folk and their partners would have reflecting personalities to match. She saw it in her parents and with Martha and Walter. Ratonhnhaké:ton had always been a kind man and honorable with her, making it hard not to love him. Pointing between herself and him, she joked giddily, "This didn't happen overnight."

"It didn't?" her husband chimed innocently to their instant bond upon meeting. Granted, she looked for him more than he did but it was mainly from his intense focus on becoming an Assassin. He found it endearing that he was smitten with her first but she returned that love. If only everyone could be so lucky.

"You were chasing him within the week" Elizabeth called out from inside the main room to oust the tightknit friendship between the two. She and her siblings were intrigued with Ratonhnhaké:ton upon arrival but Caroline managed to weave herself closer to him. They were her role models from the first day they took her fishing as a kid and she hoped to join their secret order one day.

"Hush, little magpies" Caroline chastised swiftly to stop the notorious teasing from her siblings. She heard it during their courtship and even marriage didn't stop it. Ratonhnhaké:ton found it sweet since they never uttered a negative word against him. They were the kindest and most open family to offer him a sense of home in comparison to the majority who would exile him for daring to court a white woman. He would never have to wander for a sense of family again, bringing him fulfillment and joy. Caroline pointed through the open doorway at her youngest sister, who blinked innocently, and corrected, "Except Alice, she's the songbird among you heckling crows."

Before Amelia could object to being lumped with her more animated siblings, Caroline snapped her fingers to add in with a laugh, "I didn't forget you."

A new voice spoke against the happy laughter from the path downhill, "Is it too late to join?"

The trio turned to find Martha in a powder blue dress while she carried a wrapped dish. Walter walked beside her in the casual town attire rather than his neat business attire for the general store. Caroline pushed past the men to rush down to meet Martha, hugging her from the side, and she proclaimed with delight, "Sister!"

During his teen years, Ratonhnhaké:ton often wondered if Caroline and Martha would stop their feuding. By being the largest part of her complaints, he had always skirted around the brunette. Time, however, had resolved their animosity and he was happy to see the joy shared between the two. It almost made him wonder if this was how the two were when they were little girls back in Glasgow before adolescence struck. Walter shook his head with amused laughter to their reunion and he informed his brother-in-law with a friendly smile, "We saw the sails of the Aquila and had a hunch about dinner."

Nobody could miss the large sails of the frigate peeking over the forest when one walked uphill. The Aquila had become a symbol of their town, just as the manor and each business uniquely made their mark. Unlike the last time they were together, the winter frost was gone for a cool wind that flowed through town. Releasing her sister, Caroline hugged Walter in welcome and quickly told him in a whisper that she met Clara. His happy smile deflated instantly to the thought of seeing her and he sighed morosely, "Why'd you have to spoil my fun with that news?"

Caroline dismissed the matter with a wave of the hand after giving the woman her ultimatum. She made a fuss during her stay in Davenport and still managed to rip away Walter's inheritance as her own. For both his sake and Martha's, she hoped that she would enjoy its ownership from across the sea by sacrificing her beloved city. It appeared only fair, after all. Ratonhnhaké:ton took an instinctive step back at hearing the name like a bad omen but his wife returned to his side.

"Now it feels like home again" Caroline sighed happily to having her family together once more, looping her arm through her husband's.

"Get inside and let's hear these naval tales!" Samuel hollered to beckon them all inside or he'd have to ditch the indoor party. Alice smacked the back of his head gently to remind him that yelling wasn't permitted inside their home unless it was for celebration. The redhead fussed at his little sister, reaching for a hot biscuit from the basket in rebuttal. Alice enjoyed her time baking at home when she wasn't busy planning lessons with Amelia and glared at her little brother.

Elizabeth laughed at her little siblings and looked at her mother knowingly to show who the next adolescent rams would be. Catherine highly doubted they would resort to the ferocity of Martha and Elizabeth, which gave her headaches with their shrieking. The redhead matriarch smiled happily when everyone entered the home, shutting the door closed to signal that they could begin dinner.

---

16 May 1778

Ratonhnhaké:ton kept his promise of staying in Davenport for a month and Caroline appreciated it immensely. He was able to coordinate missions for his assassins while also keeping tabs on Templar movement, particularly in New York. So far, Haytham kept his word on keeping that truce which resulted in a cold stalemate between both factions. At least, in the North. In the south where Aveline dwelled as their highest officer, the fighting continued which worried Ratonhnhaké:ton. Their friend, however, reassured in her letters that she had the problem under control but would appreciate reinforcements if he could spare them. With Boston being their safest stronghold, he sent Duncan and Clipper while keeping the New York assassins stationed to monitor Haytham's people.

Apart from the Assassin's Order, he and Caroline had to update their accounting records for Davenport's Prospect while she and Walter handled the general store records. In all his years, he never imagined owning a business but import/export and selling merchandise was a good business. It would also help disguise transfer of cargo for the Order and provide transportation for his assassins to their destinations. The income helped support upgrades to the Aquila, their private arsenal of weapons, the horse rehabilitation, and upkeep for their homestead. Caroline cared over her hens well enough that leftover eggs were sold to the Millers for their own business. Sir Cornelius also helped tremendously in scaring any curious predators at night. Ratonhnhaké:ton was already on the lookout for a dog to train to protect all of their pets to avoid a tragedy with his wife's beloved turkey. Caroline, however, doubted Sir Cornelius would accept stepping down the pecking order.

The month spent together in their home was very much needed despite his initial impulse to head out on another trip. The emotional and mental tug-of-war with his father had drained some of his patience which was quickly replenished within the week. His wife said nothing about his chipper mood but she was glad to spend time with her husband rather than her captain. They didn't have to worry about deadlines, potential ambushes, a mutiny from Haytham, or reaching home in one piece. Their bond was reinforced after rest, fresh food, and daily walks through their beloved town. With spring in bloom, Ratonhnhaké:ton granted Caroline her desire to have a garden on their homestead. She missed the apple tree he had given her in their youth and hoped to plant a few fruit trees and vegetables to have extra for storage. They weren't courageous to attempt it alone when they had masters of the earth right down the road.

Prudence and Warren had been more than happy to help the young couple, bringing along Hunter to learn the trade as well. Prudence took Caroline under wing for planting seeds while Warren taught Ratonhnhaké:ton on the laborious work of plowing for those seeds. Caroline had collected seeds to store in her cellar and bought a few from the general store to save for that fateful planting day. Ratonhnhaké:ton found her innocent delight in seeds rather humorous but he would work hard to make her dream come true. They would do their best and if they failed, at least they tried.

The two couples began early in the morning to beat the sun's stronger rays of noontime. For the first time, Caroline adhered to her mother's old bonnet rule for young ladies. Her long months out at sea led her to using hats nowadays to prevent burning her fair skin. Ratonhnhaké:ton helped Warren carry the gear down the road to their homestead while the women prepped a large batch of grape juice to keep them hydrated. His tribe planted seeds for gardens differently but without the proper tools, he was grateful for Warren's help. Pushing the plow reminded him of pushing back enemies or blocking stubborn livestock. Thankfully, his wife would only need a few rows for vegetables- at least, that's what he thought until . . .

"I can plant these grape seeds!" Caroline called out perkily from the open kitchen window while gathering her seeds on the countertop. If she left the unused grape seeds from the juice they made and dried them under the sun, she could plant them last in a separate area. Ratonhnhaké:ton had already created the second row of plowed land for her and tried not to sigh under his breath. Prudence bit back a laugh when she waved at her husband to suggest, "We could make a fruit garden!"

"Can we really keep up with all that?" he questioned warily about planting too much and having it go to ruin. Cleaning it up and bearing the rotten smell would not be nice. Not to mention, keeping pests away from ruining or eating their garden. They were constantly traveling which meant they wouldn't be home for weeks intermittently. They needed produce that could last weeks without picking and not spoil easily.

His wife disappeared from the window to wander who knows where, leaving him leaning against the plow. The sun would soon begin to rain down on them with the morning cloud cover clearing up. Warren leaned against his gardening hoe, tipping his straw hat towards the younger man, and told him, "I think you're going to have to make her a fruit garden, my friend."

"I agree" he sighed despondently to increase their garden from half the size of a room to full length. They were placing it on the western side of the homestead, opposite of the barn to avoid having the horses accidentally eat their yield. With the new size, that chance grew more possible. Still, he promised his wife a garden during their courtship and murmured, "The things we do for love."

Caroline did indeed bring out seeds for both a vegetable and fruit garden, not to mention, fruit trees. For two people that were not farmers, he felt that they were overreaching with their first project after marriage. For the sake of his wife's happiness, he hoped not. He would water the garden or pay one of her siblings for extra help – at least for the first year. Thus, he gave his best to clear the land for the new garden and create neat even rows for planting. When he finished one row, Caroline and Prudence would diligently plant specific seeds in the small trench. Hunter would then happily use a small shovel to return the dirt on top of the seeds to conceal them for growth.

The new Burnett homestead would be flourishing with produce by summertime and Caroline couldn't be happier. Ratonhnhaké:ton was glad to break a sweat with a mission other than chasing Templars or arguing with his father. Home was their safe haven and he understood now that they needed to replenish their energy to avoid burning themselves out with disillusion or negativity.

"There" Prudence spoke proudly, patting the last mound of earth that now surrounded an apple tree sapling. Two apple trees and a peach tree were planted by the edge of their property to offer shade one day when they grew fully. Chicken wire had been placed around the rectangular garden and around the trees to protect them from damage. Their work was now completed for the day and she sighed with accomplishment, "Now you have a garden of vegetables ready to flourish next season."

Caroline smiled happily to her plot of fresh earth that had been packed neatly, the green grass gone from that section of the homestead. Her husband would use it for mulch to help the seedlings grow so nothing would go to waste. Wiping sweat from her brow, she glanced at the kind farmers to tell them sincerely, "Thank you for all the help. Ever since we made our homestead, I've wanted a little garden like mother's. With spring blooming, it's a perfect time."

"It is no problem" Prudence replied heartily with a soft laugh, happy to lend a hand to the young couple. They never hesitated to jump at the chance to assist the town residents, even if they were juggling other commitments. When they approached her a few days prior with the request and a basket of corn cakes, she couldn't help but be endeared by their shyness. She grabbed a small shovel that her son was eagerly smacking against the grass and mentioned aloud, "Hunter enjoyed gathering loose dirt. You will be having a hot bath, young man."

His brown eyes widened immediately and he darted upright, scuttling off to hide behind his father. Warren couldn't help but laugh loudly when Hunter grasped his legs tightly for protection and objected, "Mama, no!"

Neither Ratonhnhaké:ton nor Caroline could believe that the little baby born in the dead of winter was now running around town. His vocabulary was forming rapidly and he was always behind one of his parents, eager to learn about their day agenda. His curly dark hair and big brown eyes ensnared everyone that met him. Caroline enjoyed watching the growth of little Hunter and Daniel, wondering who the next baby to join their generation would be. The more time she spent around children, the more Ratonhnhaké:ton could see that his wife's maternal flame was growing.

"I'm glad he had fun" Caroline smiled happily, raising her right hand to beckon Hunter back to his mother's side. She saw the top of his head peeking out from Warren's left leg before it shook vehemently against that idea. His brown eyes briefly met Prudence's, who shot back an amused glance at her spouse when their son ducked behind him again. He really was not a fan of baths, like most children. Caroline found comfort in seeing the new families that branched after finding their forever home and she sighed softly, "The best of my formative years were spent outdoors running through pastures, I miss those days."

Everyone held memories that defined their childhood, both sweet and sad, but it was how they defined you that mattered in the end. Prudence began her journey wondering if she would be treated worse than an animal by colonials and sold like a piece of meat. Perseverance and hope led her to Warren, who sought a better future for them, and they now had the family they always dreamed of. The earth held onto the memories of its treatment through time from both the elements and humankind. She was happy to cultivate the earth, to heal the barren land, and told the redhead wisely, "We all return to the earth at one point. It gives life and embraces the end. This will be what we leave behind."

"You're absolutely right" she smiled solemnly to the walk of old age that everyone undertook. She wouldn't be in her twenty's forever and like her husband, strived to care for the land that protected them. Her parents created their homestead through hard work and it would one day pass onto one of her siblings, likely to be Samuel by common law. The land under her feet was hers to pass onto her descendants and she would work hard to leave a thriving homestead. Briefly glancing at her husband, she wiped her hands free of loose dirt and spoke softly, "I want to grow old here with everyone else, to pass this beloved land to someone who will treasure it as much as I did."

"I agree with that sentiment" the older woman chuckled, hoping her home would outlast the government chaos. Their homestead would pass to Hunter one day and she was content that her miracle child was thriving. She hoped trouble would never rear its ugly head in their land but they would teach their son how to protect himself against danger. With the younger couple being rooted fiercely to the town, that threat decreased. She still remembered the redhead running downhill and her husband trying to figure out what flower to gift her, telling her with amusement, "You were just a girl when we arrived but your family was most kind. I appreciated the help during my pregnancy and I will return it one day for you."

"Oh, Prudence . . . thank you" she whispered with blushing cheeks at the thought of a little baby of her own. Her current active lifestyle out at sea and traveling to other colonies didn't give her confidence on childrearing easily. Children required stable housing and a constant parental presence in their formative years, which would prove difficult for wandering Assassins. She was accustomed to protecting her husband and tearing herself away from him to care for their child alone stabbed at her heart. Not wanting to dwell on that imaginary future, she returned to the present and piped up with a cheerful tone, "How are our men doing?"

Warren found this as an easy project to undertake before lunchtime while Ratonhnhaké:ton leaned against the dirty plow for a break. He didn't expect the earth to be so stubborn against his full strength and the roots buried underground didn't help with jamming his neat rows. He had broken into a good sweat and wondered how Warren did this every season. There was newfound respect for the farmers that sold their fresh goods to the town, shaking his head to admit bluntly, "I don't think I will plow in my life ever again."

"You're not farmers but I admire your effort" Warren laughed to the inexperienced gardeners but they would help them on their new journey. The couple were growing to be experts with livestock but had yet to have their own due to traveling often. Ratonhnhaké:ton appreciated the compliment because he never wanted to battle the earth's thorny hide again. He felt filthy from head to toe with grains of dirt sticking to his trousers. Good thing he threw on his casual attire for cleaning out the barn rather than his heavier layers. He couldn't wait to take a bath after all of this was done and relax for the evening. His wife, however, was absolutely ecstatic about today's work.

"We are definitely not trying to be" Caroline replied truthfully because they wanted a garden to garnish their meals for sides. They could even harvest their yield to take on trips out to sea to save on money, given how much fights the Aquila was dragged into. Their forte as a couple lay in protecting others and governing a town, which Ratonhnhaké:ton still found himself surprised about. He was not the type to enjoy power of any kind which was why he was against the Templar ideals. He was broken out of his exhaustion when his wife laughed, "Connor was curious on farming larger bundles."

"I bit off more than I could chew" he muttered despondently for his ambition that blew up prematurely. How was he supposed to know how much toiling was required to create a smooth canvas for planting? He had been ready to simply use a hoe and drag it in a straight line until Warren stopped him to demonstrate the capability of a plow. If he was inclined to continue farming, he would pay for one but that flame of interest was doused in water now. Still, he was determined to make one last row for his wife and gripped the leather handles of the metal plow to push it forward.

Caroline hated to see her husband struggle when he was giving it his all and dissuaded him with a kind smile, "You can stop, dear. We'll have enough vegetables for use and storage."

Ratonhnhaké:ton was not a quitter by nature, pushing against the plow to create a neat line in the dirt. At least, until it struck another gnarled root underground and he protested, "I promised you a garden-"

"This will suffice" she reassured to his valiant effort but their land happened to have quite a bit of stubborn mess of roots. Maybe they were meant to have more shady trees decades in the future rather than vegetables. Ratonhnhaké:ton stopped pushing the plow, hesitating on believing her, but hoping she was serious. He really didn't want to continue making another row unless he had to. Caroline shot him a sympathetic smile to let him have freedom and pointed out, "Besides, I don't want you struggling to get up from aches tomorrow."

Ratonhnhaké:ton highly doubted this would leave him broken come morning but then again, he underestimated the earth. Still, he couldn't help but let his pride protest just a little bit, "I've been through worse."

"Let's make some drinks and snacks" Caroline announced with an amused smile, enjoying the flicker of stubbornness from her spouse. She would grant him that after all his hard work that day, standing up to dust off her skirt. She didn't know whether the front or back bore the worst, given her enthusiasm to plant under Prudence's guidance. Their first batch of drinks was gone which meant a new pitcher was very much needed. She would never let help go hungry or thirsty, piping up sweetly, "Hunter gets the first bite."

At this, Hunter darted forward eagerly to the offer of free food and Caroline held out her right hand. She laughed happily when he grasped it tightly with a perky hop in his steps which caused everyone to laugh. This was a great day to enjoy and celebrate, blushing bashfully when Prudence spoke jovially, "Thank you for your kindness."

"No, thank you for the much needed help" Caroline chuckled warmly for the extra set of hands. Her mother and father created their small garden after arriving so she was never able to catch a glimpse of their work. Being unfamiliar with planting, she and Ratonhnhaké:ton were shamefully going to simply dig a hole and toss their seeds in even spaces. Now, she didn't have to hope for the best because she got the best with the farmers. Patting the small mound of earth that contained her awaiting garden, she smiled brightly, "I've missed working with the earth. The lumber mill was my best work but now, I have a homestead to upkeep."

"We will send you part of our first yield in gratitude" Ratonhnhaké:ton promised earnestly for the extra help because the project would have taken longer alone. With Prudence and Warren down the road, they were a tremendous help for improving their land. It was only fair that their work was repaid and his wife was skilled in making fruit pies.

---

16 June 1778

After spending more than a month in Davenport, Caroline was happy to prepare her travel pack when her husband proposed traveling again. Word had reached them that the Templars were infiltrating the Loyalist troops in New York and Ratonhnhaké:ton knew his father was knee-deep in that movement. He did not want their proposed collaboration to be tossed aside and investigation into the tip was warranted. Caroline's joy to be happy in their home was his greatest concern when approaching her with the idea but she didn't bite like his first incident with Valley Forge. His wife agreed to his plan, suggesting he focus on their route while she handled their traveling gear. Ratonhnhaké:ton decided to have the Aquila drop them off and they would use their horses for travel deeper into the forests west if required. Now that winter snowfall was gone and replaced by thriving greenery, Caroline looked forward to exploration without freezing her nose off.

Their arrival to New York was thankfully uneventful with Dobby leading the couple to their secret den. With Davenport's Prospect being a legal business that hid Assassin's work, they set up a warehouse in the city run by Dobby. They were careful not to keep their goods there longer than a few days to prevent the Templars from catching wind or taking a hit in profit. The second warehouse was set up in New Orleans and by the look of their bustling business, Ratonhnhaké:ton would need to open a new one as a halfpoint. She led them to Jacob at a bar across the warehouse, who was quick update them on Haytham's movements.

Ratonhnhaké:ton wanted to handle this delicate alliance with Haytham and ordered his subordinates to maintain surveillance. They didn't want to break the cold peace with an attack and have all that progress crumble into dust. With that in mind, the couple headed out to the last area that Haytham had been spotted to investigate. His father was not a hard man to spot, given his affinity for blue attire, but he carried the same hiding skills that they did. He doubted he would intentionally avoid them, given the recent trip, but who knew what could change in two months?

The loyalist militia was heavy in New York unlike Boston, littering almost every corner. Ratonhnhaké:ton doubted his father would wander near these bustling areas and headed to the alleyways alongside the docks. The empty passages created easy access and privacy for individuals desiring to keep out of the public's eye. It was while wandering through the narrow inlets that the two landed beside a brick two-floor building and spotted the Templar leader standing off between two buildings, in another alleyway.

His style of dress and appearance was immaculate as always, making the two self-conscious over the wrinkled areas over their joints. Even in his familiar blue attire, the man screamed authority and sophistication while they were the polar opposite. He was speaking with a smaller man that was hunched over, hiding his features as the two spoke. Caroline rubbed at the crinkles over the navy skirt of her robes and admitted with muted surprise, "To be honest, I didn't think we'd find him this quickly."

Was he intentionally making it easy for them to find him? Or was he planning something? Or maybe his skills were dulling? Ratonhnhaké:ton didn't know what to think anymore about the dangerous man. He had enough snark to fill an entire washtub of insecurities to drown someone. Still, he couldn't help but jest under his breath, "Is he still wearing the same clothes?"

"So are we" his wife pointed out sweetly to remind him that their travel attire rarely changed. Their clothing was meant to last rather than be switched out every season like higher social classes. Fabric was not cheap and they weren't children-sized anymore which would spare them a coin or two in savings. She was accustomed to stitching holes closed and adjusting hemlines but nothing fancy like Ellen. She placed a hand on his right shoulder in support and smiled gingerly to whisper, "It's okay to be a little nervous."

"Not when you have him as a father" he reminded flatly to having the worst luck in the family department and hoped his future children fared better. He already had a positive relationship with his wife and her family so that was a plus. Caroline offered a sympathetic smile that soothed his inner turmoil, wishing that they could turn around and forget everything. There were times such thoughts did flicker through his mind as well but he had a mission to accomplish. He would not let his father and his negativity about the future deter him, especially when he had a future family and his town to think about. Sucking down his uncertainty into the pit of his stomach, he directed his wife, "Let's go."

Caroline followed him silently, keeping an eye on his back, and placing a hand on her pistol. She wouldn't be caught off-guard this time like in Valley Forge. Ratonhnhaké:ton doubted his father would attack him in the open and crossed the empty cobbled road to draw his attention. For once, his tall height came in handy to avoid being ignored. Haytham acknowledged their presence by meeting his gaze but raised his right hand to order them to stay. Ratonhnhaké:ton was inclined to disobey and approach the two men but Caroline grasped the back of his robe to keep him rooted on the spot.

Neither of the two could discern what the two were discussing and Ratonhnhaké:ton wondered whether it was in their favor or not. Haytham, on the other hand, was reaching his wit's end with his mousy spy and asserted firmly, "We need to know what the Loyalists are planning if we're to put an end to this."

The uneasy gangly man known as Twitch sighed dramatically, not earning himself points, and whined, "I've tried! But the soldiers themselves are told nothing now—only to await orders from above."

Haytham regretted summoning his services but the city lacked decent spies that were expendable. Not to mention, his son had killed his best ones. There should have been pride in that but he felt more frustrated at being blocked off from internal knowledge. He needed to know the daily movements of both sides to determine his plan of action and what side to tweak in the favor of their goal. He was not going to take excuses and shot the man a fierce glare and emphasized, "Then keep digging. Come find me when you have something worth sharing."

Twitch scuttled off with the utmost haste to leave the aggravated man, allowing Ratonhnhaké:ton and Caroline to approach Haytham. The Templar was clearly uneasy with the progress of his investigation but his son said nothing. He knew better than to aggravate a bear trying to pick apart a tree holding sap. For Haytham, there was no question that he would have to search for answers himself. With the other two present, they would undoubtedly want to conduct their own reconnaissance. This could work in his favor if he played his cards right and told them, "We're so close to victory. A few more well-placed attacks and we'll be able to put an end to this civil war and be rid of the Crown."

"What do you intend?" his son inquired quietly, showing willingness to work together once more. Haytham tried not to feel pleased or hopeful with that but his presence shed a positive light on collaboration. He had traveled to New York to seek him out rather than avoiding or trying to kill him which meant the initial antagonism was fading. Even his initial indifference at facing an idealistic and naïve young boy was gradually changing, which he couldn't determine was good or ill.

Haytham's reply didn't please the assassin when he admitted bluntly to the lack of insight, "Well nothing at the moment—since we're completely in the dark."

Ratonhnhaké:ton kept a straight face to his declaration, doubting its validity, and pointed out, "I thought the Templars had eyes and ears everywhere."

His father shot him a small glare for the subtle wisecrack and answered flippantly, "Oh, we did. Until you started cutting them off."

Caroline could see a flame of competition rising between the two and decided to intervene to keep their heads clear. If she didn't, they were liable to become tea kettles. Having her husband's back, she told her father-in-law helpfully, "To be fair, he did stop after our trip down south."

Ratonhnhaké:ton would not entertain or fuel his father's fussing after leaving his home to travel there. He would much rather continue living his first year as Caroline's husband in their town rather than hearing everything he was doing wrong. If Haytham was right about the conflict being close to an end, he would do his best to see that reality come true. Too many innocent people were dying every day on both sides and it needed to end. Crossing his arms, he told his father frankly about their next step, "Your contact said orders from above. It tells us exactly what we need to do: track down the Loyalist commanders."

He spotted a gathering of Loyalists in the distance by an old church and headed in its direction. If they weren't receiving intel, they would draw it from the commanders. To reach them, they would have to work their way through their ranks. Given that he was in New York with plenty of time to spare, he was about to get to work. Haytham turned to Caroline, who didn't bat an eye to her husband's decision, and questioned, "Is he always this intense?"

"I've learned Kenways can be quite tenacious" she replied calmly, aware of the two men that butted heads easily but would never voice it. Haytham shot her an unamused look but she moved her left hand to signal that he move along and follow her spouse. She wasn't about to let Ratonhnhaké:ton wander alone and refrained from sighing in relief when the Templar picked up the pace.

She hoped this spying session wouldn't lead to explosions or falling from a second-story building.

---

Caroline regretted not adding a public shootout to that previous mental list. While her husband had opted for snooping for information from a secret area, Haytham's impatience seized the better of him. The Loyalists gathered inside the dilapidated Trinity Church were none the wiser to their quiet surveillance from above in the skeletal rafters of the old church. Haytham received nothing of importance with their dribble and hissed to his son, "They're talking in circles. We'll learn nothing, watching as we are."

Ratonhnhaké:ton was not eager to get into a needless fight and let his father take the lead. He would only be placed in the backseat of their mission anyway and asked with mild sarcasm, "Then what do you propose we do? March in there and demand answers?"

He knew he would not be leaving New York without a firefight when his father smiled to declare, "Well, yes."

Before Caroline or Ratonhnhaké:ton could yank him by the cape, Haytham jumped off the ledge to land behind the gathered Loyalists. His landing in the dirt drew their attention amongst the silence in the building and he greeted them nonchalantly, "Well, hello there."

The alarmed men didn't take kindly to his unannounced arrival and one of them hollered through the church, "Ambush!"

When more men flooded the dilapidated church to join the three men, Haytham hesitated momentarily and called for assistance, "Connor! A little help, here?"

Ratonhnhaké:ton was not inclined to join the maddening fray he incited, crossing his arms, and stating firmly, "This was your plan, old man, not mine."

Ducking behind an old pile of rubble, he avoided being shot by the soldiers and shot back indignantly, "Old? How dare you?"

Caroline glanced at her spouse with amusement, shaking her head to their bickering. He was reluctant to join the fighting but they needed intel to stop the war, if his father was being truthful. He ordered Caroline to stay in the safety of the rafters before jumping down to join his father. The redhead sighed under her breath to being tucked away but listened to him. Keeping behind the brick wall of the overlook, she used her pistol to target any men that wandered near the other two. A rifle would have done spectacularly but she wasn't a particular fan of them and never carried one.

She had to admire the father-son duo because they cut through the sturdy line of enemies like a hot knife through butter. Now, if they could only work together towards the well-being of mankind. Ratonhnhaké:ton, on the other hand, was finding the scuffle more annoying and a waste of bullets. Unfortunately, his father incited them enough that they were not open to reason. Caroline simply provided cover fire for her husband and spared a few bullets for her father-in-law for appearance's sake. After all, they needed him alive for their joint collaboration.

Eventually, they killed the guards and captured the three officers that held the information that Haytham sought. Leaving the pile of dead men inside the church, Haytham brought out the restrained Loyalists to transfer them to his current place of stay. Ratonhnhaké:ton brought the third officer to join his lined comrades and Haytham instructed, "We'll bring them to my quarters at Fort George and see what secrets they might share."

The last officer in the line closest to the cobbled road wriggled in his spot and before Ratonhnhaké:ton could investigate, the man darted off into the street. His hands were free from the rope restraint and he ran for his life, hollering for help from nearby Loyalists. Haytham thinned his lips, withholding a sigh, and muttered with annoyance, "Really? Well, you'd best get after him, then."

His son refused to comply with the ridiculous order and disagreed swiftly, "You go. I will watch the prisoners."

Haytham would not be ordered by his child after watching one prisoner escape and ordered sharply, "No, you do it."

"Why me?" he questioned with frustration and Caroline quirked an eyebrow to his rather prompt defeat in arguing. What happened to his iron will resistance from the winter?

"Because I said so! Now go!" Haytham snapped instantly to maintain leadership of their mission, earning a stern glare from his son. Fine, he could be pouty as long as he retrieved the runaway. Son or not, he would not be coddling or forgiving mistakes.

Ratonhnhaké:ton groaned with frustration, relenting to his father when the older man stayed rooted in his spot. Turning around, he gave chase to the loose Loyalist running down the street. Great, this was not how he wanted to spend his evening. Caroline paused from running after her spouse, narrowing her eyes at the Templar, and pointed out dryly, "It was because he called you old, wasn't it?"

"Yes" he answered truthfully, granting her that respect, but pointed down the road to beckon, "Now, off after your sweetheart."

Caroline said nothing but headed in the direction of her spouse to provide backup from anyone who heeded the Loyalist's call. Ratonhnhaké:ton, however, used his frustration with Haytham to fuel his running and he tackled the prisoner onto the ground. For once, he wasn't the one having his face strike the dirt while an enemy gloated over him. There weren't many people out with night falling upon the city and the marine layer creeping in from the harbor to shroud the city with a nightly chill. Caroline bounded up to him as he picked up the man in one move to order, "Move."

"Go to hell" the other man spat angrily, wriggling against the taller man for one last attempt at freedom.

Ratonhnhaké:ton ignored the words, mainly because he didn't believe in such. His wife, on the other hand, maintained her beliefs of heaven and hell. She did not blame the man's fury, given that they would make enemies in every encounter to end the ongoing war. It was not a black and white struggle with them as heroes but simply a means to an end that would hopefully benefit all. Ratonhnhaké:ton shoved the obstinate man and ordered tersely, "I'm not repeating myself."

Caroline refrained from smiling at hearing a crack of annoyed emotion in his voice and stated quietly, "Time for Ft. George then."

---

Ratonhnhaké:ton headed straight for Fort George because he knew his father would not wait for them. When had he ever? He wanted things done swiftly and accurately to tighten loose ends and earn whatever value he was after, mainly intel. He also didn't fail to notice that he was quiet and sneaky when he was alone after targets but add him into the mix and he was more than happy to be impulsive in attacks. While he wondered if it was intentional to have him accidentally killed, Caroline joked it was his way of father-son bonding. Ratonhnhaké:ton made a mental note if he ever had children to not let them wander the city alone, even as adults.

As the wooden gates opened to allow the pair entry into the fortified fort, the Loyalist pleaded with them, "Wait, wait! I'll tell you anything you want. Anything! Only don't make me go in there!"

Ratonhnhaké:ton understood wandering into a mysterious stronghold would give anyone pause but they only sought information. He wasn't the type to back out of his promises and reassured the frazzled man, "We just have some questions for you."

The officer, however, was not convinced at all and shook his head vehemently to declare, "Cross that threshold and I'm a dead man!"

Caroline glanced at her husband with uncertainty because they weren't people that harmed others intentionally. They had reasons for what they did but she didn't feel particularly great marching a man to death. Is that what they were doing? Or was the man trying to strike pity so he could formulate another escape plan? Ratonhnhaké:ton paused for a moment but before he could speak, Haytham approached them with a jovial tone, "There you are, Connor! I was worried you might have gotten lost!"

Ratonhnhaké:ton shot him an annoyed glare for the subtle jab at his navigation skills but the older man ignored it, waving them inside, "Come along, then!"

He reached over to grasp the officer by the collar of his uniform, dragging him with more force than Ratonhnhaké:ton. Haytham didn't have time to waste and after interrogating the other two, he had one left to undergo questioning. Caroline glanced around the wooden fort, noticing stone buildings within the area but little people bustling around. Was this truly a Templar stronghold? If so, they were privy to a rare glimpse into enemy lines. She and Ratonhnhaké:ton followed behind Haytham as he led them to one-story bunker, the shroud of night darkening the room. Inside the interrogation room, the other two officers sat dead in the rear of the room.

Caroline hung back by the door, quietly closing it behind her while Haytham shoved the man into an empty seat beside his deceased brethren. She had yet to be in a situation like this and it felt eerie to her but Ratonhnhaké:ton was calm and collected beside his father. Haytham pinned the squeamish man with a firm stare to get started and asked, "What are the British planning?"

The man did not resist in answering the questions in order to live, blabbing hastily, "To march from Philadelphia. That city's finished. New York's the key. They'll double our numbers—push back the rebels."

Given that they were currently in the target city, Haytham needed more information, "When do they begin?"

"Two days from now" the officer blurted, leaning back from the older man and fighting his restraints.

Ratonhnhaké:ton realized that was only two days away and the militia was still largely stationed in Valley Forge. They had to cut off the path of the invading army to stop the siege of New York from falling into Loyalist hands. He had to act quick in reporting this to the commander and glanced at his wife, "June 18th . . . I must warn Washington."

She nodded quietly in agreement to leave the eerie fort behind and return to the bustling city or lively woods. The silence was deafening and her instinct told her to run away from the place. They had to cover ground quickly which meant fetching their horses and heading west to find Washington. Thankfully, the lack of snowfall would keep them on schedule and the same went for the Patriots. Haytham nodded with approval to the information and chimed in cheerfully, "You see? That wasn't so very difficult, now was it?"

The officer trembled instead of agreeing, summoning the courage to demand, "I've t-told you everything! Now l-let me go!"

"Of course" Haytham agreed easily, setting off goosebumps in the couple standing behind him. They had been through this very same situation last winter and before Ratonhnhaké:ton could reach over to grab Haytham, the Templar pulled out his pistol and shot the man through the left temple. Ratonhnhaké:ton couldn't believe his callousness in killing the last officer that confessed everything. Is that why the man feared stepping inside? Had he been naïve all over again in thinking his father would abide to a moral code for once? Haytham gave no attention to the dead men, focusing on his task, and murmured, "The other two said the same. It must be true."

Ratonhnhaké:ton stared at him with blatant disgust on his face for his brutality and demanded, "You killed him . . . you killed all of them. Why? Why do you have to keep killing everyone?"

Caroline agreed entirely with his sentiment, finding no justice in killing a man that admitted the truth. The poor soul might have been drafted unwillingly or forced to do so to feed a family or make a living. Nobody really knew the stories of the militia men on both sides of the conflict but what she did know was of the two groups knee deep in the war. Her husband was trying to keep casualties to a minimum but his father was trigger happy.

Haytham would not apologize for his actions, irritated by his shock, and pointed out tightly, "They'd have warned the Loyalists. It's simply an insurance card for myself."

Ratonhnhaké:ton did not see situations in absolute, doing his best to find alternate solutions to save lives, and insisted, "You could have held them until the fight was done."

His father, on the other hand, couldn't believe his silly kindness towards prisoners at this hour of the night. A part of him, his younger self, acknowledged that he was trying to balance both sides. It was a noble venture but one that wasn't needed now. The realist inside him knew that was a stupid notion and chastised him, "And waste precious time and money on their care? What would be the point?"

Before he could retort, Haytham closed the distance between them to meet him eye-to-eye. Caroline felt the air grow tense between the two in comparison to the lighter atmosphere from Trinity Church. Without breaking eye contact, Haytham explained carefully, "Not far away from here is Wallabout Bay where the prison ship HMS Jersey is moored. A rotting ship where Patriot prisoners of war are dying by the thousands, buried in shallow graves on the shore or simply tossed overboard. That's how the British treat their prisoners, Connor."

Ratonhnhaké:ton hated being lectured by a man that took lives at a whim without a care. His father appeared to always be one step ahead of him but he refused to have his mind twisted to his perspective. Stepping away from the man, he returned to Caroline's side where he felt safest. Glaring at his father, he stated coldly, "Which is why we must be free of their tyranny."

"Ah, tyranny" Haytham mocked sarcastically to his untainted and rose-colored glass view of the world. Despite the trauma in his life, his son refused to buckle against the stark reality of who ran society. He could not help himself from trying to reach his naïve mind once more by stating fiercely, "Let's not forget your leader, Washington, could save these men on the prison ship if he was so inclined but he does not want to exchange captured British soldiers for American ones. And so, the American prisoners of war are sentenced to rot in the bay. That's your hero at work. However this revolution ends, you can guarantee it's the men with riches and lands who will benefit."

For once, he did feel pity for his son because he refused to open his mind about how the world was run and finished gravely, "Everyone else, like yourselves, will be left to rot."

Caroline already knew she was an ant in the great span of things but she hoped to make a ripple in the water that would transcend time. Her husband carried a burning torch as bright as the sun with hope that they could change the world and she would not crush that dream. They refused to be embittered by tragedy, betrayal, and fear, choosing to be better than those who sought different. Ratonhnhaké:ton did not flinch to his father's threat and muttered, "Washington is different."

Haytham, however, heard hesitance in his tone since his son was still wary about the New World. Washington came from that society, marrying into the high class to propagate his rise in the military. Haytham was not one to be keen on social climbers and after being aware of what he did to Ziio's village, he carried a grudge. As a Templar, Washington was a threat to their new order they sought to instill and as a man, he wanted to kill Ziio's murderer. His son, however, dwelled between both worlds to find his place and he advised him carefully, "You'll see his true face soon and when you do, you can make your decision and judge him."

With nothing more to say, Haytham nodded to the couple and excused himself, "I'll meet you at Valley Forge."

He walked around the couple without another glance back and opened the wooden door to continue on his mission. Ratonhnhaké:ton watched him leave with a held breath, releasing it when the door shut behind them. Caroline's shoulders relaxed as the atmosphere returned to warmer air between them, sighing softly, "Shrewd as ever."

She caught doubt lingering in his brown eyes and understood his confusion after what they witnessed. They weren't the type of people to interrogate and kill people only to ensure victory. They peered past the conflict between both sides to see the larger picture of how it would affect people at a smaller level. Haytham saw that as a weakness as he accepted the sacrifice of people suitable in order to have that larger picture. Grasping his shoulders, she squeezed them fondly and locked gazes with him to emphasize, "Don't blame yourself. You're doing everything you can to keep this peace but we can't control your father's deadly tendencies."

"I could have stopped him" he told her with disappointment in himself for not acting quicker to save that man's life. He assured the poor man that he would not harm him and death came before he could act. What kind of man would he be if he couldn't keep his word? Shaking his head to his delayed action, he whispered with regret, "I trusted my father to keep his word and he didn't. Does that make me foolish to even attempt this bridge?"

Caroline's throat tightened to his emotionally laced words, not accustomed to them outside their home. Weaving her fingers through his raven hair, she touched her forehead to his to convey her endless support and admitted weakly, "We're treading through thin lines to stop this war and sometimes, we can't save everyone – even though we wish to do so in our hearts."

Neither of them imagined being enveloped in the middle of a war when they first met but their roads converged in a murky river. He refused to drown in its fierce current and they pulled on one another to traverse it together. Every mission was becoming more treacherous and he dreaded harm coming to his wife. She was his tether to a balanced mind and heart when he was confused, telling her, "He might be my father but I don't want to become him one day."

His heart lightened when she kissed his lips with a fond smile, drawing one from his own. The entire ordeal left his posture rigid and paranoid of his surroundings but she calmed his heart. Caroline adjusted the hood of his robes before tucking stray locks of hair behind his ears to keep his appearance immaculate again. He was her hope for a better world and she would push him through every hurdle, smiling brightly, "You won't. I believe my absolute best in you."

---

A/N: And Haytham returns to kill his enemies all over again while Connor is left to clean it up, haha. The couple earned a small moment of peace by building upon their land but they will be home for a long haul after the next mission and chapter. Although the Haytham chapters have been great to write, I am very excited to write the family building portion for Connor and Caroline and the expansion of Davenport. I know several readers want Haytham to live so I'm now torn between canon continuity or Haytham straightening out the Templars to have peace until the War of 1812 in which his grandchildren try to salvage that peace (yeah, I've been thinking a bit on it). You guys made me dwell on this story and I love it since we've seen nine years of these characters so far with six more to go (then a few more with the kids).

Thank you to my readers and reviewers:

ThyDevoutBeliever: I ask myself that all the time while writing this story. He's been deeply indoctrinated into the cause and reading the Forsaken novel, he did have ideals of bridging both factions while younger. Still, he feels indebted to the Templars since it's all he's known but he's the head honcho that could make the greatest changes. So now I'm dwelling between two paths on this story with a dead Haytham or a living one after 1781, lol.

Mercy Medical Angel: I love how readers are going 'no, keep Haytham alive!' which makes me humbled that I wrote him well enough in character to be spared. Connor and Haytham have the worst father-son beginning but Haytham is softening (as much as his heart will allow, anyway) which I liked reading when he compared him to Ziio in the novel. Even though he jokes about grandchildren, he will internally fawn over Cora on their first meeting.

danelleprae: Yes! Connor will be freaking out more than Caroline when she begins having first trimester symptoms. Clara is the dark omen of their relationship so Connor will always look for the nearest door while Caroline will grab a threatening item, haha. It is the last we will see of Clara so Connor can now rest easy.

East Coast Captain: For a man raised in high sophistication, making a roast was his culinary feat. While Connor automatically assumed poison, Caroline saw it as a father-son attempt at bonding through food. Haytham will never say 'I love you' yet he will feed his son to silently 'care' for him but tell him it's to make sure he's not dead before returning home, haha. I really would have liked to write another dining chapter between the family for more banter. Cora will understand her grandfather's warnings about men in power so she will take it upon herself to travel to learn languages and higher learning abroad (from colleges open to women at the time which included Italy) to make connections before returning to the colonies to continue her father's work, which will leave an impression on her youngest sister (similar to the Burnett sisters). The readers will get a glimpse of the future Cora in about two chapters when Caroline's pregnancy is confirmed.

Jmw: Thank you for the compliment, I appreciate that you have enjoyed this story and even more so because you have a favorite Burnett sibling. I love hearing from readers which they enjoy since I want to give them equal screen time, haha. I did have an idea way back during the early teen years of Connor to add a one-shot series but scrapped it so I'm glad to hear you would like that. There are snippets of scenes I cut out for reading length to avoid boring readers, especially the first 20 chapters. I would not mind working on short pieces involving Connor and his family. You will see more of Amelia once the aftermath of the next mission is over since Davenport will be getting new visitors, one of whom will eventually be her spouse. The action from the canon missions is about to fade to give way for the next three years of Connor living in Davenport until the attack on Ft. George.

Next Chapter Excerpt:

Ratonhnhaké:ton never wanted his people to take any stance against the settlers, always advising them to stay neutral. He would rather the colonists destroy each other first than watch his village perish for taking sides. Nobody should lose their family like he did. Shaking his head with dread, he whispered with disappointment, "No. This is wrong."

This time, it was the Clan Mother's turn to be confused by the worry in his voice. Her grandson was an emotionally collected young man but there was haste in his step and tension in the air around him. She wondered why this was, given his previous stance of telling her that he was fighting back against those who threatened their land. They could not continue to ignore the settlers that continued to encroach on their lands and endanger their children. Moving around the fire, she met him on the other side to inquire, "Why are you troubled? Is this not what you wanted? For us to take a stand?"

Caroline shook her head to what the tribe was undertaking with Lee at the helm. He would deliver the village to the Patriot army on a silver plate for slaughter, ruining relations, and destroying a part of her husband. This was not what Washington agreed to on their contract and felt everything falling to pieces. Everything they worked hard towards was being ripped away and she told them, "This will be a massacre if it unfolds."

Ratonhnhaké:ton pushed down the ball in the pit of his stomach and breathed deeply to calm himself. He couldn't head into a fight to stop both Lee and his people without a proper plan in place. This was a very delicate situation and he had to protect his people first this time. Looking at his wife, he told her with regret, "I . . . I have to go. I need to stop them."

Caroline nodded grimly and began to turn around to help Sophia change directions to head out of the village. He placed a firm hand on her left shoulder to correct his words with a heavy tone, "No. Stay here until I return."

"Ratonhnhaké:ton" she whispered weakly to follow him loyally as she always had. This was a dangerous mission with their main target using the tribe as cannon fodder to fuel the fire against natives. She didn't want him treading out there alone in the darkness, shaking her head vehemently. Ratonhnhaké:ton would not be changing his mind, deciding to keep the one he valued most in his childhood home rather than uncertain danger. Her right hand reached out to grasp his forearm and she pleaded with him, "Don't leave me behind."

"This is something I have to do alone" he stated grimly to keep her safe because his clan certainly wasn't at the moment. His father and Washington propagated the entire ordeal, furious with them and disappointed in himself for believing in them. This whole time they were both planning their own schemes to sacrifice the innocent to meet their end goals. He would never be like them, protecting those dear to him and the innocent, and told his wife quietly, "I'm sorry."

"I love you" she lamented their separation, her throat tightening to his impending leave into the unknown. Reaching over, she threw her arms around his shoulders to hug him tightly to convey her affection. His arms tightened around her waist and she smiled sadly when his lips sought hers for a soft kiss before releasing her. This was all she would be left with from her husband until his return and she promised tearfully, "I will wait for you."

---

Thank you again for reading!