Music Inspiration: Jesper Kyd- "Enough for One Life" and Hans Zimmer- "What Shall We Die For?"
Sail Into Oblivion
10 June 1781
Haytham's visit opened the door for more letters to arrive at Ratonhnhaké:ton's home every month or so. He was ready to toss the May bundle into an open fire when Caroline reminded him that Cora was keen on hearing about her grandpapa's stories. The redhead would be the only one replying to her father-in-law's letters and added Cora's scribbles by holding her little hand. Ratonhnhaké:ton did not like allowing the man close to his daughter but his letters were entirely benign thus far. He wanted to discover any underlying agendas but Haytham kept his words kind and loving which were very strange to him. After being accustomed to lectures and threats, anything outside of that spectrum threw him off-guard.
Cora, on the other hand, was giddy to receive letters since Elizabeth wrote regularly with travel stories for her. Caroline stored these letters for the future as a keepsake of colonial life for Cora to have in reminder of olden times and her family. The eighteenth century was her mark in history to leave behind for the future generation and Cora's life would be the nineteenth century. She was aware that her husband was not keen on Haytham's correspondence but keeping it as evidence into the complex mind of the Templar Grandmaster might serve one of her descendants one day. Neither she nor Ratonhnhaké:ton wanted Cora to tread down their road but if she decided to do so wholeheartedly, they had to show her both sides.
The couple did not expect to see Haytham at all for the rest of the year but Ratonhnhaké:ton was dismayed when he arrived yet again. Achilles was already none too happy with him allowing Haytham in Davenport but the old Assassin was homebound as age began to catch up to him. While Ratonhnhaké:ton had vehemently agreed with Achilles on eliminating his father, their shared bloodline and Cora was murking the water on that initial decision. The old man warned him that allowing a Templar to interact with his child was dangerous but Haytham adhered to his rules. For the first time, he was not being chastised as a family man – only when he opened his mouth to comment about their different factions.
Ratonhnhaké:ton and Cora were cleaning up after pottery project that bonded the two. Norris had discovered specific areas to mine for clay and the native collected several pails to begin his new hobby. It had been years since he enjoyed creating pottery, remembering his mother trying her best to keep him clean when he tried creating a bowl. The end result was more of a plate than a bowl but Ziio beamed happily at his success. Ratonhnhaké:ton missed those moments greatly and hoped to create new memories with Cora. His daughter was more than eager to partake in her father's creativity and the two would sit on the porch steps to work over the entrance to keep messes minimal. That was easier said than done for Caroline, who had to wash all their dirty clothing and materials afterward. Still, she was happy to see Cora's joy beside her father.
The father and daughter had just changed into new clothes to relax casually at home. Cora wiggled out of her mother's grip just as Caroline barely finished buttoning the back of her yellow dress. She didn't even get to the stockings and bonnet before her child ran out barefoot to find her father. Ratonhnhaké:ton laughed at the pitter-patter of her bare feet and scooped her up into his arms before turning to head outside once more. His smile fell flat at spotting his father walking down the road and he sighed to himself to prepare for another tangle. Cora's reaction was the opposite as she called out his 'Pop-Pop' nickname, a moniker that made Ratonhnhaké:ton grin while his father sulked.
Haytham noticed the two standing on the porch and clinched a success at catching them again. With the warmer weather, he was able to charter a voyage on a civilian boat heading north to avoid bumping into his agents. His attire had undergone changes from its benevolent blue to simple neutral shades to slip between crowds easily. It had not been an easy change to shift out of his tailored clothes but he would do what he needed to keep Cora safe. His granddaughter greeted him brightly, waving at him with both hands, while his son descended the steps of his home to sigh, "How many more visits will we bear?"
The Templar ignored the chide because he would be an involved grandfather as promised and sharply reminded him, "I am here for her and if you stopped nagging, that would be extended to you."
Ratonhnhaké:ton did not understand how he coddled Cora but he hit a figurative wall with his father every time. Despite the numerous visits, he still expected him to draw a knife or try to attack him. It would not be a wise choice but it always dwelled in his mind. He did not hesitate to state frankly about his unscheduled trips, "I do not trust you."
"Despite my honesty for the past two years?" he asked incredulously about his good behavior thus far since his first arrival at the homestead. Frigid winters had been faced multiple times, along with the risk of malnutrition, to reach the remnants of his family. He was trying his best to make amends but his son was not accepting it.
"Not when compared to the previous ten" he replied sternly since playing nice would not excuse the past years of torture at the hands of his agents. Cora did not know the dark side of her grandfather and though he loved his daughter, he would never hide the truth if she asked one day. Just as he swallowed the bitter truth about his father being a Templar, she would learn the same.
Haytham could not erase his past and it did create the man he was at this point in his life. His loyalty to the Templars had been tested by Ratonhnhaké:ton and he failed in killing him, achieving only a chasm of distrust. Now that Cora was in the mixture, he did not want to break her heart. She carried not only the potential of her parents but himself and Ziio, even her great-grandparents. Their family had a penchant for uncanny resilience and he smiled faintly when Cora opened her arms to welcome him. Her dark hair had grown past her shoulders, long enough to be braided in two neat plaits across each shoulder, but her blue eyes shone brightly nonetheless. Ratonhnhaké:ton was uncertain about handing her over, placing her down on the ground, and she scrambled forward to hug Haytham's left leg.
He kneeled to embrace her small form, earning a happy 'Pop-Pop' in return, and she released him just as quickly to return inside her home. Both her father and grandfather stared at the empty spot where she had stood before facing each other again. Haytham's original intent to see the Templars supreme wavered when traveling with Ratonhnhaké:ton but now, it stood at a standstill with Cora. He had to maneuver how to be a grandfather and his own ideals, telling his son frankly, "That was before her existence."
"Am I to believe you're only Pop-Pop now?" he asked dryly at his supposedly peaceful appearance and held out his right hand expectantly. Haytham briefly grumbled under his breath in disbelief before removing his hidden blades to follow the rules. Honestly, if he had behaved well at every visit, shouldn't he earn a small morsel of trust? No. The couple was smart and he would behave the same if anyone similarly approached Cora.
He handed over his silent weapons without another thought and shot back snippily, "Only if you do not antagonize Lee."
"I will end him" Ratonhnhaké:ton vowed coldly at his resolution to rid the colonies of the troublesome man. Despite he was not responsible for his mother's death, he still partook in heinous actions that warranted his death. Even now, he was a public threat to the Patriots from what his agents corresponded. If he was placed in a position of power, he would sink the new nation and strip it of its dreams of independence. Instead, it would be unwilling slavery for all under an iron fist for personal gratification and he could not allow that. His father let him run rampant and he assumed he had trouble controlling him now. He did not hesitate to profess his disdain for the man and pointed out, "He is a danger to both civilians and my Order. If he attacked me without restraint into unconsciousness as a child, what is to stop him against Cora? What is to stop him from taking it one step further?"
"Point taken" Haytham agreed grimly at his worst fear at the moment because Charles was too busy putting out fires created against Washington. He had given him the order to execute his son once and he persisted with that mission when Washington was not in his sights. If he discovered Cora was his daughter, he would not stop until she was in his grip. He had secretly saved his son from a hanging but would he risk exposure to save her? Given his old protégé's track record, he would have to . . . but hoped to delay that moment.
His thoughts were interrupted when Cora returned with a rabble of footsteps against the floorboards. She was eager to return to the two men and in her hands she held a brown clay cup. She had tried indenting images onto it but the best she could do was a circle that she painted yellow. Cora held out her clay token out to her grandfather and he took it from her tiny hands to inspect the object, asking her with curiosity, "What is this?"
"A cup!" she declared proudly at her creation and smiled at her father for teaching her the skill. Ratonhnhaké:ton adored her affection and drew her back to him with a gentle nudge of the shoulder. She batted his hand with both of hers with a happy giggle, steadfast at remaining in her spot for her grandfather's approval.
"Ratonhnhaké:ton has been teaching her pottery" Caroline spoke up as she exited the home after fetching the cup for her daughter. With every pottery session, Cora was adamant in creating something to bestow on her loved ones. Her memories were forming and she remembered her paternal grandfather when letters arrived at the general store. When one failed to arrive with the rest of their mail, she would wonder if she had been forgotten. Her father was quick to soothe her that mail took a long time and begrudgingly accepted that Haytham's letters would be common occurrences. Caroline kept a strict eye on her little one, much like her husband, from the porch and told her father-in-law, "She made it a few weeks ago."
"For Pop-Pop" Cora explained with a wide smile full of delight for granting him his first gift. After receiving many toys, she finally had something to give back. Haytham had never been given a gift by a child and was struck speechless that she thought of him. His son was too honest to lie to his child and hide them so he was also taken aback that he allowed her to gift it to him personally. The cup was mishappen on the right side, given her tiny hands, but it was decent enough to drink from.
"Impressive, my dear" he complimented her motor skills and patted the top of her head with gratitude. She was small but her personality was bright just like the sun she painted. The strokes were sloppy and uneven but for a two-year-old, they were good. There was potential in her to be greater than all her generation and he would see that come to fruition. He would keep the new cup with him and set it on his desk as a constant reminder of who he fought for now. Cora grasped his hand over her head with a toothy grin that widened when he replied earnestly, "Thank you."
Cora was quick to pick up another adventure and pointed towards her home to beckon, "Tea!"
Noontime brought Cora's snack time of tea with cinnamon cookies so she had to gift her present in time. Caroline was glad when she could have Cora stick to a schedule because there were times she refused and became picky with food. Ratonhnhaké:ton was better at diplomacy with her food choices but there was always a battle for her to eat vegetables. The redhead already set out tin cups with a small metal teapot beside the wooden dessert plate full of cookies. Cora pulled at her grandfather's hands to join her snack time and Caroline informed him with a sly smile, "Time for a tea party."
The couple expected Haytham to recoil and excuse himself from a child's tea party. Instead, the two watched in astonishment when he followed and instructed her to sit while he poured the tea. Cora laughed giddily at her newest visitor for teatime and grabbed her cup carefully to sip it when full. Haytham was not new to tea parties after growing up in a prosperous area of London as a child so old habits died hard, especially when high society still held them. His granddaughter knew nothing about city life and socialites, an automatic outsider by her humble origins. Her carefree nature unshackled his own finicky nature with a polished appearance, briefly reminded of his days with Ziio in the wild outdoors.
"How quaint" he remarked at sharing tea with their granddaughter, raising his own teacup to sip the diluted wintergreen tea. Given Cora's age, he approved of the motherly care over her food and drink. He approved of the couple's childrearing and hoped that they would believe his honest intent one day. As long as Cora was happy with him, he would do his best to keep it that way. This was the easiest unofficial teatime in all his life and he declared with a warm tone, "I have never done this in all my life."
Ratonhnhaké:ton admitted his father put on a credible show and teased him, "Ready to call it quits?"
"One does not quit being a grandpapa" Haytham objected indignantly, surprised with himself that he would not dare abandon the child. He and his son shared a tragic history, which he did not help with his actions, but time had not been kind. Cora, on the other hand, was a fresh start where he could do better. After their first meeting, he would not dare disappoint her and hoped that would be proof enough for his son that he was capable of meeting him halfway. He grabbed the teapot to fill her cup once more and promised her, "I will buy you a real tea set for you to entertain your parents."
He respected her parents' choice to live in the isolated forest but he would purchase gifts for her. Being a bachelor with no willing children to spoil, everything in his name would go to Cora. His son protested his decision, believing it to be a covert indoctrination, but his intention was honest. Cora's parents did well enough to support their growing homestead but Haytham amounted a sizable fortune. Education would be mandatory to ensure nobody took advantage of her and he would leave her with letters to keep a smart head. Caroline tilted her head to the side before whispering to her husband with a small smile, "I must admit that seeing a Templar play teatime is strange."
"Disturbing" Ratonhnhaké:ton stated bluntly at seeing him behave like a normal human being. After fighting with him verbally and physically, having him play teatime with Cora was unnerving. What happened to the terrifying Templar that executed people? How could he switch between two roles so seamlessly? He still remembered his threat to kill him if he did not aid him in searching for Church – was this the same man?
"I am your father" Haytham reminded him sharply, receiving a frown from his son, and raised his tin cup in rebuttal to toast their shared bloodline.
Ratonhnhaké:ton felt cursed because he was uneasy with either a disgruntled or cheerful version of his father. He was not able to switch between emotions without an afterthought and found it eerier. His daughter was unaware of his intense scrutiny and there would never be a second that passed without his vigilance. Crossing his arms, he nodded with silent threat and emphasized tightly, "I stand by my statement."
"She needs such normalcy in her life" he insisted to let her grow up with a normal childhood rather than his own or his son's. Neither Lee nor Washington helped in promoting a positive childhood environment to live in. He would never stop trying to convince the couple from leaving the Assassins for Cora's sake. Would they be like him in prioritizing the Order's goals and sacrificing family? Maybe they were not different after all. Still, their focus now was Cora and he pointed out vehemently, "There is much potential in her."
"For your Order?" his son questioned simply as to what he believed was his ulterior motive. Given that he refused to join him, Haytham could easily aim for inducting Cora. Would he be so heartless to enact the same behavior that had befallen him in his own youth?
Haytham wanted her far away from both groups to carve her own life and stated firmly, "No, to live away from all this. Make her own life. A better one."
Cora was indeed the last hope to escape the war unscathed but only if both sides protected her. An exposure from either side would target her and he could not guarantee her safety from his own faction. Haytham saw a huge liability in the town the couple held dear as well and advised the couple, "Don't raise her in the middle of this chaos. Take her out west where it's more stable. Wild, yes, but less conflict."
"We already live in an isolated land" she pointed out to the rural quietness of their town that yielded danger only from wildlife and robbers. They were not defenseless and protected each other with every altercation to keep everyone safe. Traveling west was not only dangerous for a grown adult but even more so for a child who could perish from extreme temperatures and starvation. It was still untamed land that only survivalists and explorers dared to tackle. She and Ratonhnhaké:ton had not dwelled on such an idea except in an exposed scenario of their secret lives where they had to leave everyone behind for their safety. Even then, they voted heading north rather than west.
Haytham was one step ahead in calculating danger for them because he was not the only one who knew of its existence, pointing out, "Davenport won't be hidden forever and unless my son manages to eradicate all of us, they will find and destroy you."
Caroline's lips thinned at the stark reality that the war was reaching and Haytham stated matter-of-factly, "I haven't lived this long not to know about my enemies or my allies."
"Our town is all civilians" Ratonhnhaké:ton spoke firmly since the townsfolk were not associated with their Order. His Assassins were clear on never harming a civilian or breaking their tenets would mean expulsion or potential execution. He upheld his promise of not disclosing his secret life to anyone outside of his family to protect the town. Did Templars really think they were creating order by killing innocent civilians? Did they care for nobody but their mission? Was his father trying to scare them out of the colonies to take over? He was not going to blow over like a leaf on unfounded fears and pointed out, "The last purge was of the Assassins, not civilians."
Haytham did not carry the blind optimism of his son but trained himself to always calculate risks. That knack for perfection and no room for error failed in convincing his son to quit the Assassins. He would never be comfortable as long as the secret war continued and advised him grimly, "The war between Templars and Assassins is a vicious and painful one. Not to mention, the one currently plaguing the so-called New World. It won't hesitate to rip that child from your arms and sell her for manual labor."
Ratonhnhaké:ton would not become bitter like his father in the new nation because the end had not been written yet. He did hope for the best for all people living in the colonies but he was not naïve to believe he and others of color would be instantly embraced. Cora would learn to read the cues of her world and never fear her roots as she aged in the New World. She would learn how to survive in the wilderness as well as the cities that slowly grew. He and Caroline would protect her to death against anyone, telling him tightly, "Thank you for the advice."
"Go west, leave this all behind for her sake" Haytham reiterated one last time to usher them away from danger to a new life. Yes, the frontier was untamed but he had no doubt in the resilience of the couple. They had not survived this long to be seen as weak and the frontier would be no different than other remote lands they visited. Neither faction would admit defeat without a fight and Cora deserved to never know of that ordeal. She could leave the colonies behind and live a new life in the untamed west to discover new lands.
Caroline knew her husband felt responsible for their town and Order so it was not so easy to cut loose, hitch a wagon, and head west. If Haytham was trying to warn them to leave, she had a different proposition to test him. She would not leave Elizabeth or her friends exposed to danger for her own safety and requested, "Then come with us, leave the Templars and have Connor forfeit his role to another. All of us can lay down our weapons and be a family after all the turmoil we've all been through."
For a moment, Haytham briefly pondered a civilian life away from everything he had known since childhood. To him, he would always pose a threat for his son's family as long as he lived. He would be branded a traitor by his kind and be seen as an enemy by the other side. Time had not been in his favor until that very moment but he stated frankly, "It's too late for me to leave this life but give her a future."
"And let you take over?" his son questioned coldly to leaving his Assassins defenseless against his father's forces. He would be the one risking his life out of everyone and would not let Cora be handled as a bargaining chip. There was no win-win situation for either side unless they annihilated each other out of existence. Even then, both factions would exist across the sea. He could not let the Templars gain a stronghold in the new colonies again.
"I took over long before you were born . . . but I see your point" Haytham shot back indignantly because he eradicated the Assassins once before. Back then, he saw them no less than ignorant thugs but now, this generation shielded civilians and did not search for any Precursor artifacts. There was a sharp shift in this team for the betterment of humanity that aligned well with his own vision for the Templars – that is, if they stopped meddling in government affairs.
Cora walked between the two men with her newest fancy and held out a bright red kite to her grandfather. She did not want to fly it alone out of fear she'd disappear into the sky but her parents were always there to control the line. Her grandmother helped her craft the kite during one of her afternoon trips and when the wind whistled through the trees of her homestead, she knew it was time to use it. She poked one of the pointed edges at his abdomen to draw his attention before requesting sweetly, "Pop-pop, we play!"
"Still have some work to do on that nickname but yes, we shall go" he replied kindly on her developing language skills but endured the silly name for her sake. Ratonhnhaké:ton took advantage of it to irritate him further when he annoyed him with nagging lectures. Cora took off running down towards the cove with Haytham and Ratonhnhaké:ton quickly running after her with a protective beckoning to halt. Caroline chuckled softly to herself at two grown men fretting over a toddler and followed them quietly.
"You're on guard, Sir Cornelius!" she called over her shoulder to alert him that the homestead was under his control. An obedient gobble was her reply before the turkey left the safety of his perch underneath the porch floorboards.
24 July 1781
The night was warm with very little breeze as Clipper and Elizabeth traveled north on a dusty road. Summertime was bearable during the night when traveling but Clipper carried a lit torch to guide their way in the pitch-black darkness. The luminous moon overhead did not dent the forest floor with its light, hidden behind the tree canopies overhead. Elizabeth kept a steady hand on her rifle since Clipper was busy with the torch but he kept his right hand on a holstered pistol on his hip. They took a risk on the open road during the dead of night in the rural outdoors but they needed the light of a torch to guide their way or risk a forest fire. Neither of the two wanted to explain to Davenport how they began the first forest fire after New England's Dark Day last year.
The duo was exhausted after traveling north from New York on foot to avoid detection. Neither she nor Clipper were fans of sea travel, unlike their leaders, and opted for wagon rides. Elizabeth pondered over traveling on horseback but the threat of losing her steed forced her to travel on foot. Thankfully, Clipper did not complain about that knack of hers but he preferred the solitude of the forest as well. They would have spent the night in Boston at Stephane's safehouse but the news they carried was urgent and for their leader only. Her special vision was utilized for most of the way north to Davenport but when a headache sprouted after the long hours, Clipper ordered to stop its use and risked the torch.
The last few weeks had led them to carry out elimination missions on Templar targets. They were lengthy missions of secretly learning about, targeting, and following their enemy throughout the state. Ratonhnhaké:ton had assigned them three missions to keep them busy but the last led them to a discovery that required further orders. Although the two were more than willing to act and tail their big fish target, Clipper ordered Elizabeth to retreat and return north. They could not allow bravery to overcome logic and ruin what could very well be their Order's first chance to nab one of the top tier Templars.
Although the life of travel was mysterious and intriguing, Elizabeth was filled with relief when the numerous orbs of light peeked out at them down the road. Davenport. Sanctuary was only a short distance away and she finally understood what Caroline told her back in 1776 about home being a warm embrace of love and safety. Her life was not guaranteed when she left the outskirts of her town but her allies increased once she returned. For Clipper, who never had a place to call home, enjoyed his visits to the quaint town whenever he could. Caroline invited him yearly for their Christmas celebration but now that he was on the road with Elizabeth to raise her experience, the trips were less often. Still, being able to return the redhead safely and travel to the lovable town was just as great.
As the town grew, more trees were cleared for land and the two felt exposed when they entered the town's main road. With it being the most traveled road, it was safer than using the backroads and did not decrease their travel time by crushing brush under their feet. The town had not changed since she last left it in the late spring and was relieved by that fact. Now that she was tied to the Assassins, she feared that a Templar would discover her identity and retaliate against her family. Living in a town of Assassins did not help to quell that solemn thought either.
Ratonhnhaké:ton was trying to corral Cora to settle down to sleep before it became too late and crankiness settled in. His daughter was fascinated by the painted books her uncle Walter had gifted her and her blue eyes focused on the colorful animals. She called out those she knew to her parents, clapping confidently when she succeeded and clapped nonetheless when she was wrong. She had been trying to read the same book for the third time despite being illiterate while Caroline tried to teach her any unknown animals. The two were settled on the floor with Cora draped over her lap, nesting in her mother's blue skirt on her stomach. Ratonhnhaké:ton tried calling his daughter but heavy footsteps and a knock on the door interrupted the family.
Given the time of night, Caroline cradled her daughter instinctively and immediately glanced at her faithful Florence on the mantle. Ratonhnhaké:ton was on his feet quickly to investigate but Elizabeth's voice settled their tension when she called out, "It's us. We're back."
He opened the door to find the two weary travelers and ushered them inside. The two found the nearest bench to sit down on, resting their throbbing feet with a content sigh. Caroline ushered her little one off her lap to fetch the two a cup of water after their long walk to Davenport. What had spurred them to finish their trek into the nighttime? Clipper slacked against the wall in sweet relief that they could rest and Elizabeth wiped her dusty cheeks with the back of her hands. She appreciated the cup pressed into her hands by her sister and greedily gulped down the cold water. Caroline took a brief moment to kiss the top of her sister's head, glad to see her safe once again. She met Clipper's tired gaze with a grateful nod for his watchful eye as a friend and her sister's partner.
Ratonhnhaké:ton wondered what spurred them to travel in the darkness and asked, "Traveling at this time of night?"
He was nudged aside by Cora as she skittered over to her aunt to cling to her dusty trousers, pressing her rosy freckled cheek against her knee, and greeted happily, "Auntie Lizzy."
"Hello, my dear Cora" Elizabeth smiled cheerfully at her niece, pulling her into a tight hug. Her family was still safe! She missed her niece and nephew while on the road, purchasing small tokens for them just as Caroline had done for her years ago. Her fingers weaved through Cora's loose hair before leaning down to kiss her forehead, doting on her, "You get bigger every day."
While Elizabeth was entertained with reuniting with her niece, Clipper returned to business. Sitting up straight, he clasped his hands together and met the gazes of the couple to inform them, "We need to tell you something important."
Elizabeth released Cora with a kiss to her cheek to keep her away from the serious topic and nodded to her sister, "It couldn't wait so we didn't stop until now."
Caroline understood the silent message and picked up her daughter, who pointed at her aunt. Despite her love, she had to keep their secret life from her – even if that would one day cause discord. Cora whined at being separated from their reunion and Caroline tried to usher her attention elsewhere. Leaning down to grab the books off the floor, she moved to the other side of the main room to sit closer to the cozy fireplace. Settling Cora onto her lap, she held the books in front of her to entice, "Cora, let's keep reading while rakeni talks to Aunt Lizzy and Clipper."
Ratonhnhaké:ton reassured his daughter with a quick nod before turning his attention to the duo. Elizabeth felt guilty for cutting her time short with her niece and called over, "I promise you a story tomorrow."
Cora rambled gibberish with a resounding 'yes' and obeyed her parents by picking up a book again. Ratonhnhaké:ton shifted his gaze between the two before asking quietly, "Was your mission a failure?"
"No, all three targets eliminated" Clipper answered easily since the process was lengthy but the job was done. Their trip was longer than anticipated due to their discovery and confirming their findings.
Ratonhnhaké:ton was confused at their haste for a successful mission. When assassination attempts failed, they had to wait to let the alert wane before sending in a stronger Assassin. He assumed that was their fear with their nightly travel but now, he was curious. Elizabeth was learning from each mission to not worry her boss and informed him, "We were scouting in the city for the third target when we saw him."
"Charles Lee is in New York City" Clipper revealed with a grim smile after every Assassin was on alert to find information on his location. He had been hiding covertly since the Battle of Monmouth and his sinking reputation within the Patriot army. The Templar was licking his wounds in a stronghold where he was practically unreachable, adding another layer to bypass. Just as they succeeded in finding him, another obstacle arose.
"Are you certain?" Ratonhnhaké:ton asked with surprise at finally gaining an advantage over the Templar. He did not lie to his father about eliminating dangerous Templars that harassed the innocent and Charles Lee. Haytham claimed to be on the bridge for peace but if he attacked Lee, that fragile work could be undone. Still, he could not allow Lee to live after all of the heinous acts throughout the years. His father could chastise or punch him in outrage but he would not stray from eliminating Lee. He did not hold the Templar ideals that Haytham spouted about honor or order but he did aim for power.
"He is inside Ft. George" Clipper explained the formidable location that protected him from danger on all sides. Entering the fortress was almost impossible with defenses placed in every corner and men on the perimeter to detect intruders. With him cloistered inside, the Templars were protecting one of their highest officers which meant they were aware of the looming threat. It would be just as dangerous for Ratonhnhaké:ton as it would be for Lee if they came face to face in the place. Before his leader decided to run out the door to hunt him down, he added in, "He is being very reclusive, rarely leaves it."
"We tailed him for about a minute but it was only him handing out messages to his agents" Elizabeth deliberated on his movements through the city but they were very little. He kept close to the fortress and barely strayed far from its doors. For an Assassin, it would be hard for a long-distance assassination or lying in wait until he escaped the safety of the fortress.
Lee's location could not be jeopardized or he would flee once again to a new sanctuary. This was the first chance he would have to plan on capturing him and he asked carefully, "Did you engage him?"
Elizabeth shook her head vehemently at the daunting idea and answered sharply, "Not against that fortress."
"We would be shot before we even scale a wall" Clipper agreed with a long sigh at tackling that treacherous climb to sneak inside. He and Elizabeth had walked around its perimeter on foot separately to avoid detection while the other kept surveillance. The walls held little nooks and crannies to hold onto and if they managed a grip, they would be clearly visible to anyone below on the streets. They had not attempted to find an entry point by the sea or they would really risk exposure by the tower guards or risk being crushed by incoming ships. Entering the fort would require careful planning and he advised grimly, "It is heavily protected, Connor."
Well, it was back to the drawing board but they had a target this time. They had risked their lives gathering information since the Templars would not leave one of their officers unguarded. The travel home must have worn them completely and Ratonhnhaké:ton appreciated their dedication. Like his wife, he was relieved to see them safe and complimented their skill, "You have done great work."
"It was an unexpected perk" Elizabeth yawned tiredly before shrugging nonchalantly about their success. She and Clipper were not glory seekers or aiming to move up the ranks. Their focus was helping civilians escape Templar control, grant some freedom, and mapping out the frontier for their Order for future use. Being explorers, the duo highly doubted colonists would stick to the current borders and eventually continue the spread west. Hopefully, that would not mean angering the other empires that controlled them from abroad.
"Given this information, I have a new mission for you both" Ratonhnhaké:ton informed them to plan ahead with Lee's location to flush him out. If he refused to come out, then he would find a way inside. However, it would not be easy to infiltrate a fortress alone and allies were precious during war times. This would be one of those times when he needed to lean on the aid of others for success.
"Yes, sir" the two piped up politely to tackle another problem but Ratonhnhaké:ton motioned for them to relax by holding up a hand. He left them sitting on the bench while he walked off in the direction of his study. Caroline waited until her husband disappeared to release Cora back in the direction of her aunt, who opened her arms gleefully once more. The older redhead moved to the kitchen to prepare leftovers for her guests after that long trek. Grabbing two bread rolls, she ripped them open in half to stuff them with creamy butter and handed them over to the duo with a kind smile. Catherine always had them ready for weary guests and Caroline carried on that tradition. The two hunters devoured their bread roll in quick bites before the redhead returned to the kitchen.
Cora waved one arm to beckon for a yummy roll too but Caroline denied her craving by reminding sweetly, "You have to sleep soon, my love."
She pouted indignantly at this, sitting down on the floor with disappointment. Elizabeth nudged her right foot against her tiny left one and it stirred a smile from Cora. She was not a difficult toddler to calm down and assumed her father was stronger in her blood. Caroline returned with a platter of sliced sausage, hard cheese, and two baked potatoes. It was the best she could offer at the end of the night and offered the two an apologetic look. The two didn't hesitate to pick it clean with approval and her little sister reassured, "Believe me, we're more sleepy than we are hungry."
"You still need a good meal" Caroline sighed worriedly at their disregard and wondered what she could cook for them. She still had a pot of cold baked beans that could be warmed up and thinned into a soup if she cut up a few vegetables from the cellar. Yes, that would do for tonight.
Clipper and Elizabeth silently watched the redhead return to toil in the kitchen to whip up a late dinner. Cora stared at the two expectantly and the Assassins stared at each other awkwardly. Were they now responsible for Cora? Elizabeth shrugged since her stomach was no longer gurgling and could survive for another hour without falling asleep. She held up her hands in front of Cora so they could pat each other's hands gently to keep her occupied. Clipper found the behavior amusing from the headstrong redhead that didn't hesitate to scare people away but caved to a toddler.
Ratonhnhaké:ton returned to the main room with an envelope in hand and approached the two. He smiled faintly at seeing the two playing with Cora to keep her entertained and spotted his wife leaning over a bubbling pot over the burning firewood. Not surprised by her hospitality, he handed the sealed envelope to Clipper and explained their next mission, "I need you to travel south to meet with Major General Lafayette. Relay this information and deliver this message to him."
"If it rains or we lose it?" Elizabeth asked hesitantly because a secret message in a sealed envelope could be prone to damage. Given how rugged the terrain could be during their travel, diving waist-deep into water or swimming was always a potential part of the equation. She did not want the letter to be damaged which could lead to a devastating error.
Caroline managed to keep a straight face at her innocent query and turned away from the warming soup to instruct gently, "Please don't lose it."
"Invite him to travel here to meet so we can topple Ft. George" Ratonhnhaké:ton instructed carefully of the next phase of the plan to capture Lee. After losing trust in Washington, Lafayette was his closest ally with the Patriots that had yet to lie. The Assassins stared at him in disbelief about tackling an entire fortress and even Caroline turned away from her cooking at this daring plan. Her husband had attacked fortresses from the ocean before but snuck in through weakened areas on land. They would have to outline and detail the fortress carefully before launching an attack because they would only have one strike to kill Lee. If they attacked and lost him in the scuffle, it would be a failure and lead the man further into hiding.
Ratonhnhaké:ton would risk only himself to hunt down Lee but he could not carry out such an intricate plan alone. He would need his Assassins and aid from what little allies he had left. Lafayette was the only one who communicated with him and their partnership to help the Patriots continued with no deception from either side. The man had already offered an invite to his estate back in France, a trip that never occurred to him in all his life. Being born within the forest and lake of his ancestors, that land was all he knew until he left it behind. Glancing down briefly at Cora, he wondered what opportunities would fall into her lap one day. Would she leave him to explore her ancestral lands? He could not imagine her as an adult tackling the same problems as himself and his resolve to kill Lee strengthened. Without him in the picture, the Templars would be weaker and only his father would be left. He would have to deal with that fallout again and informed the two, "Duncan and Dobby should be on their way back from Virginia after aiding his troops so he will be liable to agree after our help."
Elizabeth pondered on taking horses this time for such a long trip down south and told Clipper, "Should be about a month of travel."
"You will travel discreetly on one of our export schooners" he deliberated further to cut down time and prevent alerting their enemies to their planning. He would have to leave the branch in New York city under surveillance orders only to trick the Templars into believing they were undetected. Sending Elizabeth and Clipper on a smaller commercial schooner would not raise any red flags to their enemies compared to sending the Aquila. The frigate would see naval warfare once more but not this week. The trade routes south were always on schedule and the next one to sail out would be tomorrow. They could rest their feet from roadside travel this time and he nodded politely to finish, "The voyage will be much shorter and draw less attention than the Aquila."
"Do we have to travel by sea?" Elizabeth asked awkwardly, not being a huge fan of the ocean. The only difference between her and Caroline was that the sea failed to draw inspiration in her. She preferred the scents of the forest from the trees and earth, along with the sturdy ground under her feet.
Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded gravely for the success of the mission and told them, "For a message of this importance, yes."
Clipper did not hesitate to accept the mission, mentally preparing himself for the next hurdle, and accepted, "We'll get right on it-"
"Rest here tonight, Clipper, and leave tomorrow after replenishing your supplies" Caroline interjected to help him recover from the long hours of travel. It was not an emergency situation and the duo would be more efficient with a rested mind and body. Neither she nor Ratonhnhaké:ton would allow them to leave after only half an hour of rest. The bubbling soup was ready for serving and she did not doubt they were hungry after they devoured her platter of snacks.
Elizabeth stood up to call it a night and not take up much more time from her sister's family. She could eat in her own home by foraging for leftovers but she was more fatigued than hungry. A quick washing and cozy fresh clothes would be enough for her. Stretching her arms over her head, she yawned aloud and told her friend, "You heard the boss. Don't worry about me, Carrie, I'll eat at mathair's."
Clipper was quick to follow her out the door to keep her safe and suggested, "I will walk you home, Beth-"
"I'll be just fine!" she hushed with embarrassment, her cheeks burning red at the nickname. Everyone at home called her Eliza and she grew fond of the nickname he chose for her during this last trip together. Clipper cleared his throat awkwardly at the accidental slip of the tongue but it was too late. Ratonhnhaké:ton and Caroline pretended not to hear that as he leaned down to pick up Cora off the floor. Caroline filled a wooden bowl with the hot soup to let him eat a good meal after weeks on the road. Elizabeth wanted him to spend time with her family after being a lonely soul for years and winked at him to encourage, "Let them fatten you up."
"May I at least walk you out?" he offered sheepishly to be a gentleman despite his rugged outdoorsy appearance.
"You may" she agreed with a polite nod and grabbed her travel pack to sling it over her right shoulder. Despite trying to hold him at arm's length, he was gradually wearing down her defenses. She held her work in Order high priority but time spent alongside her mentor also increased her trust in him. Little by little, the two gained a silent understanding of the other. It was not easy for her to vocalize sentiments and she glared at her curious family members to snap, "Don't give me those looks . . . but have a good night."
The redhead opened the door to walk through onto the darkened porch, her knees aching for rest. Clipper followed her promptly and quietly closed the door to remain polite to his hosts and leader. Caroline chuckled softly at their varied reactions while her husband decided to stay out of it, snuggling their daughter instead. Cora hugged her father tightly with a gleeful smile, earning a laugh from both her parents. They hoped to keep Cora shrouded away from the danger of their secret lives and it was a fine line to tread, especially now that Lee had been found.
From outside, Elizabeth descended the porch steps slowly to save her poor knees and nodded to the brunette, "Get some sleep and meat on those bones."
"I could say the same" Clipper joked gently at her relentless nature and ability to withstand the elements like himself. They cooked whatever they caught on the road and rarely spent time in inns unless absolutely necessary to avoid freezing overnight. Despite she would lecture him to eat and rest, he knew it came from a good place in her heart. He could not believe five years had passed from the moment they met on the Aquila and were now traveling together as partners. Assassins did not travel together often but he did not mind having her beside him after living an isolated existence for many years.
"Carrie and Connor will treat you well so don't worry" Elizabeth chuckled softly since he was very much the loner type like her brother-in-law. Unlike Ratonhnhaké:ton, Clipper did not have a maternal figure to watch over him and he was left behind to fend for himself. Being the third youngest of her own family, her parents always made sure all of them were fed and warm. She did regret being harsh with him in the beginning but trust was hard to earn, especially after being ridiculed by others in her childhood for being poor. Clipper, however, turned out to be different and she trusted him with her life after watching each other's backs in the frontier and during missions.
"You have a good family" he complimented her for having a strong support system that wouldn't hesitate to move heaven and earth to find her. Caroline could have chosen anyone else to train her or sent out on a mission, especially after his boyish crush years ago, but she placed her trust in him. That trust extended to his leader and he could not disappoint either. It was why he refused to ask Elizabeth to court until she deemed herself ready. They respected each other enough to acknowledge the tangible affection that was born from familiarity, and he divulged quietly, "When I lived among mine, I was always invincible. Nobody ever saw me. The only time they did was when I made a mistake and pain resulted."
Elizabeth could only imagine a lonely existence which was excruciating for a child yearning for love and protection. Clipper scuffed the steps in embarrassment before crossing his arms and she leaned against the beam of the porch. She did not want him to relive those painful memories and tapped her chest with her right hand to profess confidently, "I see you. I might be stubborn but I'm not blind to good people. You've never let me down and I will shoot anyone who nears you."
Her approval was all he needed because her friendship brought him happier days than any of his prior years. He was a wanderer by nature until meeting Ratonhnhaké:ton and planted himself in Boston to live a new life. His first trip to Davenport made him a frequent flier and the redhead drove him to be better. She was a tough nut to crack but she was kind on the inside, chiding her gently, "You're a chestnut, Beth."
"I'll be your family" she smiled fondly before leaning forward to punch him playfully on the arm. Their days on the road would have them fibbing each other for entertainment and she loved that about him. It was a subtle humor and he never insulted her, even when she complained on the road when irritated. He held the patience of a saint compared to her and laughed when he began laughing. Her blue eyes caught movement by one of the windows and they narrowed at spotting the trio staring at them. She was quick to wave a nagging finger and scolded them with blushing embarrassment, "I can see you three at the window, you know!"
Elizabeth couldn't help but laugh harder when Cora giggled loudly at being caught before skittering away from the window to the rear of the house. It reminded her far too much of Alice when they would sneak up against the window to catch Caroline and Ratonhnhaké:ton outside together. Now, their little one was learning from the now married couple. Some things never changed.
"You'll be our family" Elizabeth promised Clipper because once a resident moved to Davenport or became associated with the town, they were family.
15 August 1781
Ratonhnhaké:ton had been dreading the return of his father after sending Clipper and Elizabeth south. They could not risk exposing their surveillance of Lee and allowing him to slip away again. On the other hand, if his father realized his plan, it could shatter their peace and cause retaliation. It was a fine line he was treading but he never told Haytham that he would not kill Lee. He was quite vocal about it and his wife agreed he never hesitated in his decision. Unlike Lee, his father was a complex individual whom he never read perceptively like other enemies. He could say one thing and then declare he never uttered such a thing or ignored it completely – it was baffling. It was why he was wary of Cora meeting him but his father showed compassion for the first time in his entire existence since meeting the man as a teen.
Haytham continued to send letters to Cora and briefly hinted at steps to take to keep their Orders from killing each other. Ratonhnhaké:ton would abide by them all for peace except for the not-killing Lee part. He was quite clear on that one verbally and in the written word. In return, Caroline would write letters in his stead as a buffer to minimize conflict on both sides. She was far better at being the peacemaker of the two to pacify his father.
Meanwhile in Virginia, Haytham received yet another of these letters from his son's family. He was rather surprised that they began communicating back with him after the last visit because he was invested in his granddaughter. His chance to raise Ratonhnhaké:ton sailed long ago but Cora was in her formative years to see the best in him, not the worst. She would one day learn about that darker side of him and frankly, he hoped to not exist at that point than learn of her disappointment.
For Grandpapa,
The flowers at home are pretty and in bloom. Mother has been kind to press one onto this letter as a token for you. I picked it myself with help.
"She is a dear" he complimented proudly for both mother and child when he saw a vivid violet flower pressed into the paper. Dried sap adhered it to the paper to share the memory from his grandchild in the north. He regretted not visiting that summer but he did send the tea set he promised her. His son might be skeptical of his path to a better future but it was Cora that fueled that new hope.
Father walks the trails with me and I collect these every day for mother. It has been hot so I am drinking water from my new tea cup when my parents allow me. I send my thank you for the pretty gift and promise to use it carefully. I have also grown half a centimeter this summer so I am on my way to matching papa's height one day. Mother and father send their regards and I will have my tea set ready when you visit again one day.
Love, Cora Burnett
Haytham recognized Caroline's neat cursive writing but Cora's voice was indeed in the sentences written. Had her vocabulary extended greatly since they last met? Did she ask about him? Or was she upset that he had not visited her? His association with the Templars did not help now that he kept tabs on Charles, hindering his trips north. The letter from Cora shifted from Caroline's writing to straighter writing that was not as bouncy – his son.
Father,
Your protection of Lee will be fruitless. My hunt for him will not cease but I do seek to maintain peace with you after this goal is accomplished. It is clear that you are now close to Cora and I hope not to one day inform her that I was forced to end your life for protecting a cruel monster in thirst for power instead of choosing her. Do dwell on this decision.
Connor
"Well, that dashed the mood considerably" he muttered dryly to the change of tone but his son and granddaughter were different as night and day. She was untouched by the harsh brutality of life and tragedy, leaving her hopeful and optimistic about her world. His son, on the other hand, sought to provide her with a safer world but defied his ideals – which were no longer held in disdain. Ratonhnhaké:ton was smarter than he gave him credit for, given his success in eliminating his officers, and he was pushing forward with his end plan. It was an open warning to him without revealing his plans but they were clearly targeting Lee. His second-in-command was currently hiding away to lower notoriety and Haytham wondered, "What are you planning to do?"
And do I dare foil it?, he thought curiously as the Templar-Assassin conflict headed to an ending. Neither side had won across nations and Haytham doubted he could make a difference. His son was willing to negotiate with him regarding their respective Orders but he was unmoving when it came to Lee. He would either have to sacrifice Lee and his ideals or the family he regained. Which would be held important and of higher value in the end?
Another open letter lay beneath the envelope from his son's family and he picked it up with his right hand to read it. Cora's letter remained in his left rather than placing it back in its respective envelope.
Kenway,
The war between the Assassins and Templars has always been a brutal and messy one. Working on both sides, I can attest to that. I have heard of Connor's exploits with the colonial Assassins . . . along with the rumored relation to you. Just as you advised me once, do not allow sentiment to sully the Templar goals. However, if what you mention is true of this branch holding more honor, protecting civilians, and no interest in Precursor artifacts . . . there may be hope for a ceasefire. France is at the brink of war, no less by our actions here, and though I wish not to take part in another war, if one can be ended with less bloodshed - I am for it. I will be on a ship bound for New York soon after sending this letter so we may speak after arrival. If you believe this is our best course of action, I will follow your stead.
Sincerely, S. Cormac
He would have to decide soon based on both letters and wondered what else lay ahead for not only both sects but his family. There was no question that Cora had to be kept safe but he also didn't want her to lose her parents . . . but that would mean a ceasefire was pivotal. The question was, where to start?
4 September 1781
Summer was gradually disappearing to make way for fall and with the changing seasons, Davenport's oldest resident was nearing the end of his twilight years. The recent winter had left behind a lingering cold that weakened the old Assassin as he healed but old age made it harder to recuperate at 100% capacity. Ratonhnhaké:ton had been watchful of the elderly man but Achilles had always been just as stubborn as his student. Time was no longer with Achilles and he was aware that his protégé was planning an attack on a Templar stronghold. Now that he was growing weaker, he advised Ratonhnhaké:ton to trust in his Assassins since his time on earth was now limited. He had taught him all he knew and it would Ratonhnhaké:ton's judgment on how the war would end in the northern colonies. Aveline's work in the south liberated it from Templar control and only the north was left.
Over a decade of work had led Ratonhnhaké:ton to this pivotal mission to finally destroy Lee. He had promised to find the man after his childhood attack and he aimed to make true on his word. His father would not approve of his decision but he was the Grand Master, not Lee. As far as he was concerned, their talks were between he and Haytham – nobody else. His only fear in enacting this plan was that Caroline or one of his Assassins would be killed in retaliation. His wife assured him that their allies would be ordered to lay low in the safehouses after their attack on Ft. George. It would be a tense week but they would take all necessary precautions.
He was awaiting the arrival of Major General Lafayette after word was sent from Aveline's contacts in the south to their northern branches that he was on his way. His remaining Bostonian Assassins had been given their orders to meet in New York City with Jacob's team to await further instructions. He was not entirely comfortable having his most experienced members in one place but had to place his trust in them. Each piece had to move carefully on the figurative chess board for this mission to succeed.
Ratonhnhaké:ton was snapped out of his thoughts when Diana rapped on the wall of the basement and she spoke gently, "Connor? He's asking for you."
Diana had become the official town nurse, mending injuries and colds when Dr. White was busy during the day in his clinic. With Achilles' health decompensating every day, she would visit daily to ensure he was alive and had not sustained injuries moving around. He was stubborn to do everything himself but Ratonhnhaké:ton worried he would only worsen his condition. It had taken himself, Diana, and Dr. White to earn his begrudging agreement to move his bed downstairs to the first floor for safety and comfort. He followed the blonde upstairs to see to his mentor, aware that each day he was wilting away. Whether he would live to see him return from Ft. George was a question he pondered every day.
Achilles lay in his bed with a tired expression as he caught his breath, shifting to sit more upright on his pillows. He raised his left hand to encourage Ratonhnhaké:ton inside, chiding him gently, "Hello, Connor. Come now. Your sadness won't sustain me any more than that fool woman's soups and potions."
Ratonhnhaké:ton shot him a wry look to play nice with Diana's kindness, sitting down across from his mentor. Achilles ignored the silent reprimand as he requested with curiosity, "Tell me of your latest exploits."
He had tried to keep his secret mission quiet but he could not plan very well at home. When he tried to set up the layout of Ft. George in his study, Cora had picked off the pieces and came too close to eating one more than once. After that parental snafu, Caroline suggested that he return to the old basement in the manor for extreme caution against curious toddlers. His war room was now officially the basement again and he lived there most afternoons after his chores. At the same time, he would be able to observe Achilles' declining health. He leaned forward, exhaustion heavy in his shoulders, and began, "Charles Lee has been exposed and the Patriots finally rid of him. They march now to secure the remaining cities that this country might finally be free."
Achilles nodded agreeably to the recent changes and spoke with pride, "Then you have won. The land and your people are safe," he paused when noticing hesitation on his face, "Yet you seem troubled . . ."
"Washington spared Lee's life" Ratonhnhaké:ton remarked bitterly to the commander's mercy on a man that deserved none. After conspiring multiple assassination attempts and defaming the man, he allowed him to live. Why would he keep a threat such as he alive? Was it to relieve the burden of questionable actions in the past? Either way, he could not allow that mistake to go uncorrected for the safety of everyone.
Achilles agreed with the removal of Lee to attain peace in the colonies and advised him, "So long as he lives, all are in danger. The same is true for your father. When you first came to me, you understood what had to be done. Swore you'd see it through. If not for the Brotherhood, for your people - and all those threatened by the Templars."
Ratonhnhaké:ton was unsure after his father's recent neutral behavior while Lee was more volatile. He held no qualms about annihilating Lee but Haytham had agreed to a stalemate. He may not ever form a decent relationship with his father but Cora was his only saving grace. He practically bent over backwards for her at every visit and she held memories of him now. Would his daughter resent him for killing her grandfather one day? He was not fully committed to that possibility and suggested, "But with Lee gone, my father might . . ."
The old Assassin did not want his resolve weakening against their end game to rid the colonies of their enemy. The nonexistent bonds between father and son should not play into the overall goal. Ratonhnhaké:ton slumped further in his seat when Achilles warned him gravely, "Listen to me. You have not come this far to throw it all away over misplaced sentiment. Both men must die."
There was no question on whether Lee should but his father was different. They had improved relations during their brief alliance before Haytham's deceit shattered his trust. If he remained detached and led his Templars without resurfacing in their lives, he would have pushed himself to kill his father. It was not something he would enjoy but understood the necessity. Now, his presence in Cora's life and willingness to breach peace complicated matters. It was not an easy situation to traverse and he felt trapped in the middle, trying to negotiate, "Achilles-"
"There is nothing more to discuss" Achilles interjected sharply to end all discussion on the matter, shifting away from him in bed to rest once more. Ratonhnhaké:ton leaned back in his chair briefly to sigh with disappointment before standing up. The weight on his shoulders was not an easy burden but he held numerous lives in his hands. The assault on Ft. George would be difficult and he expected to find Charles Lee cornered inside but if his father was also present . . .
He left the room to clear his head, questioning himself for trying to find another way. The Templars and Assassins had been at their throats for centuries with no ceasefire. Could they not try a different tactic to see if it made a difference? Lee was not the leader of the Templars and maybe with his downfall, a new alliance could be set forth in the colonies. One that compromised between order and free-will that appeased both sides. Was he still naïve to hope for a better future? Or could he persist enough to wear down his father to listen?
He rounded the corner to find Caroline leaning against the wall with a sympathetic smile. Her powder blue dress disguised her true nature with a homely look but she had yet to wear her robes for a trip. She opened her arms instinctively to offer support and he accepted with a grateful smile. Whenever he was worn or broken, he could depend on her to soothe him. Caroline hugged him tightly since he was not facing an easy mission or decision regarding his father. He was doing his best to handle a tough situation and she supported his optimism by stating, "As much as I respect Mr. Davenport, you have your own choice to make as our leader."
Ratonhnhaké:ton released her with a heavy sigh at that pivotal decision, his gaze shifting to the floor, and whispered uncertainly, "What if I am wrong?"
"You have grown much from that impulsive boy I met" she assured with a fond smile, remembering the short-haired boy with the sheepish smile that walked the trails. He threw himself into unknown danger with what little training he had to make the world a better place. His desire for immediate results was thwarted by his own haste and his belief in the good in others sometimes backfired. He learned from his stubborn streaks which were aided by his wife's grounding personality. Caroline admired her husband from the moment they met as teenagers and even though her trust faltered when he admitted his affiliation with the Assassins, she eventually joined his effort. She would never turn her back on him and cupped his face to press her forehead to his, speaking earnestly, "I believe in you, Ratonhnhaké:ton. I always will."
"Even if I lead us to our deaths?" he asked worriedly at causing needless death over one dangerous person. Did one life weigh heavier than countless others? Their daughter was also very young and losing either parent would be devastating to her. If he was a bachelor and alone, his life would not have mattered in the great span of his goals. However, he had a wife and child to consider walking into this battle. His Assassins had become friends and family, bonds that simply couldn't be broken.
"You have yet to lead us to a defeat" she replied truthfully to their wins and losses with the latter being very little. All of them listened to him, even when his orders sounded a little insane but they survived. She would walk into the jaws of hell itself because he was the one she trusted to get them through in one piece. Only he could make that final decision concerning his father but they would emerge victorious, reminding him, "Setbacks, yes, but not downfall."
Lee was one variable ready for elimination but his father toed the line of enemy and ally. He had not done himself favors by concealing the truth and if he learned he was lying about protecting Cora, he would kill him without hesitation. His daughter was the only reason he hesitated, especially after receiving the unexpected confirmation via mail that Cora really was Haytham's sole inheritor of his homestead. His father was a wild card in this battle and he sought advice from his wife, "Do you think my father has a chance for redemption?"
"I do, now that we have Cora" she answered quietly because they were able to reach an understanding when traveling together. Although they varied in their beliefs, they did work together and began seeing each other as individuals rather than fighters. Her husband's family carried a lot of tragedy and she sympathized with his need to avoid adding more fuel to that fire. Ratonhnhaké:ton and Haytham carried different ideologies but they did agree on peace, just a different perspective of it. The birth of Cora changed their dynamics and renewed hope for their fractured family, leading her to joke gently, "She's the bread to your oil and water."
Ratonhnhaké:ton would not put it past his father to have a master plan to kill them all and muttered flatly, "He might be aiming to kidnap her and kill us."
"And recreate his childhood?" Caroline proposed at having him walk the very same footsteps that led him to being who he was. Haytham saw the hurt and disappointment in Ratonhnhaké:ton and if he attempted the same, Cora would one day hold that resentment and kill her grandfather. It was not a cycle that needed repeating and their nights were now spent with her husband sleeping late over pondering such possibilities. She could not imagine the heavy burden hanging over his head but would aid him however she could. They had not seen the Templar that summer but did that mean that he was planning something to end their Order? She shook her head at thinking so negatively and sighed softly, "I don't know if he's that evil."
"He may retaliate when we kill Lee" he pointed out grimly on facing his father's unleashed rage. Lee was his successor and eliminating him would create a vacuum for the position which would frustrate Haytham. He would remove one of his most trusted agents, leaving him vulnerable to attack and his agents to disarray at earning the new coveted spot. Killing his best Templar would mean Haytham could kill his daughter in return for the attack. He would have to take extreme measures to protect her after the battle.
"Lee is dangerous, more so with every word that he spouts" Caroline remarked on his superiority complex over everyone but enjoyed seeing him flee at Monmouth. In every engagement where Ratonhnhaké:ton and Charles were on the field, the former always fled. She had seen Haytham and her husband fistfight more than the supposed inheritor of the Templar Order. For Ratonhnhaké:ton, Caroline and Duncan were his advisors due to their level-headed nature. The redheads were daunting when enraged but they kept tight control of their emotions when making decisions. Caroline remembered the two Templars back in Bridewell Prison, shaking her head slightly as she added in, "Your father is terrifying . . . but he is not cruel like Lee."
"He has killed without hesitation" he stated coldly to Haytham's false promises to captured enemies and his merciless execution. He did not flinch or hesitate when directed towards a goal and had left him behind more than once to seize it. Neither he nor Caroline could underestimate him after this next mission and would enter another cold war with the man. Crossing his arms, he reminded her dryly to their first interaction, "He left us in the freezing winter."
"We were barely into an alliance" she chuckled softly since she never expected to meet her father-in-law in the middle of nowhere. Much less, a dilapidated building. Her husband handled him well, considering the circumstances, even when he wanted to give up on their truce. Haytham was not the peachiest of people but neither was her husband, leaving her as a watchman over the two. Still, she had hoped their blood bonds would aid in peace rather than war. Ratonhnhaké:ton shot her a firm stare and she waved her hands dismissively to sigh, "Not that I am excusing his behavior. My fear is greater in Lee killing our daughter, not your father."
He leaned back against the wall, hating the feeling of uncertainty in the pit of his stomach, and murmured, "If I attack Lee . . . I will likely end our stalemate."
She placed a hand on his shoulder, squeezing it gently, and smiled with respect, "Do what you believe is best, I will always follow you."
His eyes narrowed instantly to the last words, not willing to risk her life, and disagreed, "I cannot have you on this mission."
"I am an Assassin and the farther away I am from Cora, the safer she will be" she reasoned on their daughter's safety since Amelia was their contingency plan. She would not leave her husband alone during what could be their toughest battle yet to sit at home. Amelia knew how to keep Cora safe until they returned and Ratonhnhaké:ton would need all the numbers possible on his side. She might be rusty after motherhood but she still knew how to shoot a weapon. She clutched his forearm tightly to show her dedication and shot him a firm stare before declaring, "Besides, I am not allowing my husband to head into danger alone."
"Caroline" he tried to sway her choice but she shook her head vehemently. She had left him once in her youth and regretted that choice heavily, promising to never leave his side again. He was her best friend, husband, and the father of Cora so she would be a fool to let him leave for danger without her. His leave for missions always crushed her after Cora's birth but this would be one of their biggest fights yet.
"I am your shield and I will protect you" she vowed quietly with a furrowed brow at the thought of being left behind. Worse, her husband requiring aid and being alone. She did not have to be an offensive fighter, being accustomed to a defensive position as well. He would need to keep a clear head in the endgame of this battle and she could supply it by mediating. His protesting eyes relaxed slightly and she took the chance to kiss him chastely on the lips. She would never be far from him anymore and met his gaze to whisper solemnly, "I have three years' worth of catching up. I am leaving with you and I will not return without you."
Ratonhnhaké:ton wrapped his right arm around her waist to pull her close, resting his chin on top of her head. Caroline returned the hug instantly to convey her unyielding loyalty to him, basking in his radiating warmth. He tackled so many problems alone, traversing two worlds, under siege from numerous enemies, and still managed to be a good honorable man despite disappointments and betrayal. Ratonhnhaké:ton deserved to rest from this war and she hoped this battle would bring an end to it.
An awkward clearing of the throat was heard from the opposite hallway and Caroline released her husband with flushing cheeks. They were keen on keeping their affection private, even when indoors. They turned to find an amused Diana standing in front of their new guests. Caroline smiled in relief at seeing Elizabeth behind her, accompanied by Clipper. They returned safely! Behind the two Assassins, they spotted another familiar face and Aveline grinned to preen, "Are we interrupting?"
"Aveline!" the redhead exclaimed happily, not expecting her to travel so far north for them. Now that the south was free of the Templars, Aveline was free to destroy what remnants were in the bordering American colonies. Caroline nodded to Diana to leave them in privacy before reaching over to embrace her old friend, happy to see her well and safe after so many years. Aveline was not surprised to see her close to Ratonhnhaké:ton during his work for the Order, even with her role of motherhood. Even when the two wrote to each other, business was always sprinkled into their correspondence. Caroline pulled her little sister into the next hug, earning a playful groan from Elizabeth, and used her right hand to shake Clipper's in gratitude, "Thank heavens, you've returned safe."
One more figure broke away from the group and Ratonhnhaké:ton headed straight for them with a faint smile. Major General Lafayette strode forward in his calming blue garb and opened his arms to greet jovially, "Connor! I came as soon as I could with their help."
Ratonhnhaké:ton was glad to see his ally arrive safely and nodded in welcome to the quartet. Caroline brushed the back of his right arm to direct him at the officer while she would host their friends. Preparation for the battle was crucial and they could not waste Lafayette's time. He was willing to leave the battlefield to meet them and risk traveling alone, which spoke of his dedication to the war. Caroline tried not to smile at her husband's enthusiasm, especially when he didn't recoil or stiffen when Gilbert clasped his shoulder, and Ratonhnhaké:ton asked, "Tell me you bring good news?"
The two had been in correspondence after Ratonhnhaké:ton assisted in stealing English ships for the Frenchman. The Major General was true to his word and kept him in touch regarding Lee's movements and where assistance was needed in the war. He became the mediator for Ratonhnhaké:ton after Washington lost his trust and Gilbert knew the value of a good ally. They could both aid each other in their mutual goals and he smiled broadly to explain, "The Comte de Grasse said yes. You need only join his fleet in Chesapeake Bay and they will serve as required. But what exactly is it you intend?"
"It's better that I show you" Ratonhnhaké:ton suggested and motioned for the officer to follow him down to the basement. The two men headed downstairs while the remaining Assassins gathered in the hallway.
Aveline read the unasked question on Caroline's face and she chuckled softly to explain, "I acquired a ship for an extra hand in the battle to come."
"I was curious about your arrival" she smiled warmly, happy to have another helping hand in the fight. It had been quite some time since the two worked together and it was never a dull moment. Now that the French colonies were rid of Templar influence, it allowed her sect to help Ratonhnhaké:ton in his fight with the American colonies.
"I have to keep my contacts safe and the French fleet added a layer of protection up north" Aveline spoke slyly about the new frigate at her disposal since it cut down time on traveling north. With the Major General under their protection, the decision was made to use the frigate for travel rather than the slower schooners. With the French naval fleet also heading north, they tagged along for protection and carried on alone past New York. She nodded to her old friend, aiming to stick around until the end, and promised, "My ship, the Vaillante, is yours."
Caroline was grateful for any help to take on the fortress to aid her husband and smiled, "We welcome the extra firepower from a friendly face."
Originally, the plan was for Ratonhnhaké:ton to enter the fortress alone but one person against an army was risky. Sure, her husband could take on an army single-handedly like he had in Bunker Hill but Ft. George was an enclosed space. Ratonhnhaké:ton altered the plan by having the Assassins aid him underground and removing obstacles when the exterior attack occurs by sea. It would improve his chances of catching Lee with numbers on his side rather than alone. Aveline had been briefly advised on the initial plan by ground and sea, bringing the new frigate to lend a hand.
Elizabeth already counted herself among the infiltration team and informed her sister on their part, "We'll join you on the Aquila until reaching the harbor then disembark to go with Stephane."
"Eliza" Caroline warned because their parents would lecture them fiercely for jumping into another dangerous adventure. Elizabeth still lived under their roof as an unmarried lady while she was a mother to a toddler. Her little sister was an adult and an Assassin so she could no longer bind her to their town while uttering such would be hypocritical of her. She simply did not want her loved ones injured.
"I'll be fine, Connor's the one you have to keep safe" she pointed out easily with a confident scoff since it was simply traveling underground. It would be completely empty and if it wasn't, it would be easy pickings. She was basically impersonating a mole with the rage of a groundhog protecting its tunnel.
Caroline's shoulders stiffened briefly before gazing at Clipper, then Elizabeth, and advised firmly, "Look out for one another out there."
"Always" he promised to keep the redhead safe, for both her family and himself.
She trusted the two to read a dangerous situation and escape rather than engage. Ratonhnhaké:ton would hand out each of their assignments but she would stick close to her spouse. She would ensure he entered Ft. George but knew he would bar her from following, which she would regrettably abide. There was a limit to what he would allow from her as an Assassin, especially with Cora needing them. With Aveline in her corner, their chances at naval warfare were better and she recommended, "Stay on our rear, let us hold the line and head any offense. I have to return you safely to the south."
Accustomed to constantly peering over her shoulder, it was nice to be among friends that protected her. She missed the warm hospitality of the town and hoped to visit in the future now that the south was calmer. The battle of the American Revolution was being won by the rebels, now that the French and Spanish armada were in support of them. A fight was a fight and Aveline shrugged nonchalantly to smile faintly, "It's not my first northern tussle."
Downstairs, Ratonhnhaké:ton wasted no time in explaining the plan to Lafayette. He would be the one taking the most risk but he was also requiring a lot of trust from Lafayette and the French naval fleet. Candle lanterns illuminated the basement, highlighting the center table and the large paintings of Ratonhnhaké:ton's present and past enemies. Gilbert did not miss the majority being crossed out with red paint with only two remaining untouched. The disgraced officer fled the battle any time the native entered the field and it was understandable by the intimidating aura of the war room.
Ratonhnhaké:ton did not hold back on winning Gilbert's approval for his plan and divulged the danger of letting Lee live, "Charles Lee may have been dismissed, but it does not mean we are safe."
Lafayette had read the orders of ignoring Lee to his disgrace, allowing the public to form its own opinion, and shook his head to refute, "But the Commander-"
Ratonhnhaké:ton was adamant to change their decision on allowing a dangerous man to live. The colonists did not hesitate to burn down native villages so why were they lenient on a man bent on destroying their reputations? It was hard not to be frustrated at their reluctance but he remembered his wife's words to keep calm. Their Order had their goal while the Patriots held their own so they would have to work within those lines. He was blunt in pointing out the ruthlessness of Lee and he would show him no mercy, speaking firmly, "The Commander underestimates the threat and no more time can be wasted trying to convince him otherwise. I must do this on my own."
The Major General assumed the other man knew more than he was divulging, given his invitation, and asked uncertainly, "Do what, exactly?"
"Kill Charles Lee" Ratonhnhaké:ton revealed with conviction to end his long-time nemesis and make the colonies safer for both sides. Washington expected Lee to quiet down with no attention to feed his fires but the commander failed to realize he would not quit until he seized power. Approaching the table in the center of the room, he flipped it upside down to reveal a tiny wooden replica of the fort. Elizabeth and Clipper had presented detailed sketches of the fortress that was verified by the New York branch to let his plan come to fruition. Pointing to the miniature fortress, he deliberated further on the current situation, "He hides within Fort George, which is itself, surrounded by a militarized district. I cannot hope to infiltrate it directly - so I will go under instead."
Most soldiers tackled a stronghold head on by foot or sea but the man was treading dangerously by going underneath his enemies. It was a smart tactic that would not be expected and Gilbert liked the idea a lot. The colonies were not old but they were extending far enough that tunnels were being created for spying or illegal work, given the war. He nodded with approval to his ingenious idea because emptying the fortress would yield the English another strategic loss. Washington had already sent orders for him to travel to Virginia yet again to mobilize their next regimen for engagement so he had to make this a quick trip. He managed to convince the naval fleet to travel north instead so they had to make it count and nodded, "Incroyable."
There was one current obstacle in his plan and Ratonhnhaké:ton explained, "The tunnels leading to the fort have been filled in. While I secure the Admiral's ships, I need you to clear them for me."
Lafayette was confused on this part because he expected a naval assault and couldn't help but inquire, "And the ships?"
"When signaled, they will bombard the fort" he answered to the two-stage attack that would lay siege to the fortress to topple it. The outside attack would draw Lee out and he would infiltrate the interior to kill him. The fleet at sea would take the brunt of the counterattack which is why he needed a strong distraction for his entry point.
The other man understood his strategy perfectly now for the fleet and his headstrong friend and declared emphatically with a smile, "Breaching its walls and creating a distraction. I see!"
Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded grimly to the daunting task at stake for the safety of the colonies and his loved ones. He could not afford to fail and there was little room for error in this mission. Despite not wanting his wife to participate, he knew he needed numbers on his side. This was one battle that he could not win alone from the start and he vowed coldly, "In the chaos, I will slip inside, find Charles Lee - and silence him forever."
Amelia heard a rapid series of knocks on her front door and figured it was one of her siblings. Nobody else held the quick tap-tap-tap and resounded holler that was void in the other residents. Had they dropped by for snacks? Soon enough, Caroline's voice followed with an apologetic, "Sorry to bother you!"
The teacher straightened her dusty apron before smoothing down her gray skirt. She did not want to terrify her sister with an unkempt look but doubted it since this was her eldest one. Opening the door, she smiled warmly to greet her guests politely, "Caroline. Connor."
Her sister was the expected guest but she was surprised to see Ratonhnhaké:ton with a sleeping Cora in his arms. She was bundled in a thin white blanket to avoid jostling her, unaware of the trip to her aunt's. Both were dressed in their sailing attire so this was not a social call. Amelia was aware of Caroline's plan to leave Davenport but a date had not been set. She assumed all the pieces on the chess board were now in their places and it was time to pull the trigger. She welcomed them inside since her home was empty at the moment since Michael took both Sebastian and Samuel to fish for a freshly-caught dinner. The full and thriving river flow brought numerous fish into their town before it emptied into the cove. The summers provided the most outings for her new family but she had lingered behind to ready the kitchen to fry the fish once her husband prepared it.
Caroline glanced at her with apology for intruding past noon with her own problems and spoke with regret, "I am sorry to do this now but our reinforcements have arrived."
Amelia had hoped her sister would stay behind for Cora but understood that she was helping to put an end to two wars. The life they led was not one that she envied but as her sister, Amelia would help them protect their daughter. Cora was an innocent child and Ratonhnhaké:ton strived to keep her safe, especially now that his father knew where they lived. It was not an easy choice for them to leave Cora and head into unknown danger to protect everyone. He hoped she would understand their actions one day because he would never leave her side if it was safe. Amelia did not want to ponder the idea of losing them, to sacrifice themselves for the world and leave Cora with that burden.
Ratonhnhaké:ton raised Cora's sleeping form to kiss her brow in farewell, lamenting the distress she would feel if they did not return soon. All he could do was leave her in the care of his most trusted loved ones. His father might not harm her but that did not mean Lee would listen so he had to bring an end to him once and for all. Caroline brushed her raven hair away from her freckled cheek before kissing her temple, inhaling the familiar scent of her child. It was all they would have once they sailed south and he informed Amelia quietly, "We must leave for New York."
He handed her over to Amelia, missing the warmth of his child instantly, and watched her shift in her aunt's arms. She cradled the toddler close to avoid jostling her further and furrowed her brow, whispering in return, "Is it better this way while she's asleep?"
"I can't tear her heart watching us both walk away" Caroline replied with a wavering voice as she tried to keep a straight face, fighting with her aching heart. She had witnessed Cora's sobbing when her husband left for his first trip for the Order and her daughter should not witness both leave her. It would be easier for her young mind to believe they were on an errand while they fought in the Chesapeake Bay. The reality of their work should not be exposed this early in her life and Caroline begged her sister, "Please, keep her safe for us."
"Until we return" Ratonhnhaké:ton promised because he would not allow his wife to rush into Ft. George. He pushed his comfort zone by letting her board the Aquila for the naval battle, given her capabilities as his navigator. The fight at sea would be risky nonetheless but he had to ensure one of them would return to Cora. As a child who grew up alone after his mother's death, Cora needed hers to guide her and he could not bear to lose his wife either.
"If anything should happen . . ." Caroline whispered gingerly as her gaze swept over Cora's face, pausing to sigh heavily, and looked at her sister solemnly to finish, "We love her and you for caring for her."
Ratonhnhaké:ton controlled his voice as he gazed one last time at his beloved child and promised, "We will see you soon, Cora."
"Please don't take needless risks" Amelia pleaded desperately to keep them focused on returning home after completing their mission. They would likely suffer injuries and staying safe outweighed killing more enemies. She was risking both her sisters and Ratonhnhaké:ton not returning and having to live with such an outcome was devastating. She hoped this mission would not take longer than a day or Cora would begin crying for her parents. She was constantly glued to them, particularly her father, and they never wandered far from her to instill that unyielding trust. Removing that safety blanket would be upsetting and Amelia emphasized firmly, "She needs you here and so do we."
"Don't shred my heart more than it already is" Caroline sighed heavily and blinked back tears that stung her eyes, resisting the urge to sweep Cora into her arms and run back home. She had to help her husband protect their loved ones and make sure he returned with her. Her sister would keep Cora safe and comfortable until they returned or head north to Vermont to their uncle's homestead until danger died down. Caroline embraced her sister with one arm, using her free hand to touch Cora's cheek one last time, and smiled weakly, "Take care, dear sister."
"Thank you, Amelia" Ratonhnhaké:ton spoke genuinely for accepting her own risk in taking in Cora. He would trust his daughter to nobody but Caroline's family and tore his gaze away from her with a heavy heart. Caroline nodded in farewell to her sister before turning away to descend the steps, breathing rapidly as she wiped away tears. Each step left their daughter behind in safe hands while they headed onwards to remove a Templar threat. She held on to that sliver of hope if their mission went south.
Amelia sighed under her breath, blinking rapidly to rid her eyes of building tears, and watched the couple leave their town. As they headed north to the cove, she gazed down at her sleeping niece and promised with a kind smile, "I will always protect you, my dear child."
Ratonhnhaké:ton struggled internally but his wife was more open with her painful emotions. Their daughter was the most precious person to them and he reached out to grasp her left hand. He squeezed her shaking hand to reassure her of their decision but it was not easy to walk away. Their bustling home that was filled with laughter now lay empty and void of life. He drew his wife closer as they walked together to the cove and asked carefully, "Are you sure-"
"You need all hands on deck for this one, cap'n" she interjected swiftly and sniffed to clear her nose, wiping the corner of her eyes. Accidentally tripping and injuring an ankle before the mission began would help nobody. They were both leaving Cora so she had to make it count. She squeezed his hand tightly, appreciating the public gesture, and breathed deeply to control her emotions. Her husband held great control but she could see the usual glimmer in his brown eyes was gone. Returning his support, she reminded him with her wedding vow, "I will never leave you."
"You cannot be bound to me forever . . . but I am grateful for you" Ratonhnhaké:ton whispered affectionately because he would be lost without his family. His wife followed him loyally and despite he wanted her to stay in their sanctuary of a home, their chances of surviving increased. They watched each other's backs vigilantly in battle and he hoped this would be enough to let them escape the siege of Ft. George.
Caroline clutched his hand tightly, clasping her other hand over it, and stated with resolve, "We must do the best we can for everyone. For Cora."
The couple walked in silence to the cove's platform where the Aquila had been prepared for her next battle. Over the weeks, improvements were completed to make the frigate an impenetrable ship. She had seen many battles over the decades and every sailor bet on her to survive a scuffle yet again. It would not bode well for them to bet against her. Ratonhnhaké:ton hoped this would be her last great battle under his captaincy that would end in victory. He had numerous lives in his hands and although he knew he could not save everyone, it did not lessen his guilt any less. The familiar creaks of the wooden dock solidified leaving his home behind as he approached the Aquila. Her pristine white sails were still tied to the masts as ammunition was being loaded onto the lower decks to ready her for departure. Aveline's ship was ready to set sail and stationed on the opposite side of the dock after reloading ammunition as well. The Vaillante had not fought heavily but they did engage enemy ships trying to break the line of the fleet heading north.
Voices echoed across the cove as sailors hustled to finish their tasks and Caroline released her husband's hand to resume their role as captain and navigator. It had been quite a while since the two sailed on the Aquila together but this time, there was no merriment in sailing off for adventure. Those youthful days were now behind them as they pushed forward to eradicate the Templars. Ratonhnhaké:ton noticed Aveline loading her pistol by the boarding platform and greeted her politely, "Aveline."
She nodded at the duo in acknowledgment, holstering her weapon, and promised their commitment, "The Vaillante is under your command. We will follow and engage defensively per your navigator."
He agreed with the plan for the second ship to engage only when attacked to keep them as a second line of fire. Lafayette was already onboard one of their company schooners to avoid detection as he headed south to the city as well. Ratonhnhaké:ton could not risk his safety by having him onboard on either ship when another pivotal battle would be fought. Aveline did not captain the ship but the crew was part of their Order so there would be no risk of mutiny during a firefight. His lips were set in a tight thin line for the grueling mission ahead and he admitted grimly, "I cannot afford more casualties on your side than mine when I am leading us into fearful odds."
"We will offer cover fire as best we can" she reassured because the Aquila might need a helping hand in the fight to come. It would be better to have an ally to get them out of a bind than zero options of escape. The crew of the Aquila certainly had a boost of morale at seeing the sleek frigate that flew French flags on their side. Ratonhnhaké:ton appreciated the generosity of Aveline and her branch, nodding in return when she spoke warmly, "Best of luck to our side."
The trio split with good tidings to board their respective ships, the boarding platforms creaking one last time before they were pulled into the ships. Robert welcomed his captain onboard with a hearty shake of the hand and greeted their navigator with a friendly smile. While the couple lamented leaving home behind, he thrived in charging into the raging sea once more. He was aware that he was no longer a young sailor and had to make these last trips count for his naval career. Straightening his shoulders, he resumed his role as first mate to holler, "Captain on deck!"
The multitude of voices was silenced instantly as all the sailors stood at attention. Robert had already briefed the crew on their mission and the high danger accompanying this voyage. None had backed out after years of loyal service and the first mate promised a pay raise for their effort. Ratonhnhaké:ton stepped forward to peer around the large deck filled his sailing crew, along with Elizabeth and Clipper who were hitching a ride. They were all counting on him to get them back home and he spoke firmly, "I will not lie to you, we are heading for a naval battle with high stakes. Our target is Ft. George and we must aid the French fleet in breaking the line. No matter how chaotic it becomes, we must hold the line."
"I hope it's not like the Belladonna all over again" David muttered to his brother with a dreadful sigh at having to hear another captain make a pompous speech. If he had to bear any more complaints about their coastline, he would shoot them out of a cannon.
Richard shrugged noncommittally since their captain handled the blowhard last time and muttered back, "I'm counting on worse."
They had barely escaped that scuffle, forced to dock for repairs, and tugged the damaged boat slowly to port. Adam looked to his first mate with uncertainty since he had already been flung overboard once and asked, "Even with the French fleet?"
"Never underestimate our enemies" Robert agreed grimly to their threat because they would not know the full force of the enemy until facing them. With the Templar numbers dwindling, they would likely gather heavily to protect Lee. The pit of his stomach was dreading that his captain would find Haytham in all the chaos as well as Lee. Two highly trained Templars against one Assassin would be a sticky situation to escape.
The young stoic boy under his training had grown into a formidable captain and Robert was proud to be his first mate. He never believed the Aquila would rise from the sea again after the purge but now, she was heading straight to extinguish the last numbers of the colonial Templars. It was a good comeback story like any and he wished for a quill now more than ever. Ratonhnhaké:ton clasped his hands together before nodding to his crew and spoke frankly, "I thank you for your faithful and valiant service to me these past years and we must look out for one another in this battle. I will do my very best to return you home."
"We're tougher than we look, cap'n" David scoffed with a haughty smile at defying the odds more than once. The Aquila had taken serious beatings but she survived each one to pummel her enemies even harder. His crew on the top deck were proficient to pick apart enemies and target weak points when the captain was busy steering the ship out of danger. He would not let his own men down either.
"We've survived this far" Richard agreed confidently to support his captain since they would jump ship if it was a self-absorbed captain with a death wish. Even with a zero-survival rate, the two would still join the battle. Robert had been a good captain decades prior and his protégé was no less. They trusted him when he flung them into a fight with uneven odds and told him, "You've yet to lead us astray."
"That goes for the ground crew as well" Clipper chimed in with a friendly smile for the Assassins awaiting them in New York. With the Aquila sailing southward, they would collect the Bostonian Assassins before dropping all of them off outside the city to avoid detection. Both he and Elizabeth were uneasy being onboard a ship which led Caroline to ordering them below deck to stay safe and out of the way. They knew ammunition in terms of guns, not cannons, so they would only surface when brawls on the deck sprouted. For the first time, Elizabeth hoped that would not happen since she was out of her element at sea.
"We are not only fighting for our own freedom but every woman, man, and child in these colonies" Ratonhnhaké:ton spoke gravely, the image of his beloved daughter surfacing to mind, as the years took their toll on his mind and body. He did not want his friends to keep fighting until their deaths or for Cora to inherit his life and question whether it was all worth it. He needed to end it for her, for the countless people that died on both sides over the centuries, and to lend a hand to the new colonies bursting forth. Neither he nor his wife were idealistic youths anymore and he conveyed his message clearly, "For all of us to be rid of the Templars and fight the lingering injustices that will remain after this war. It is not about supremacy or power but to create a better world than the one before where we can live without fear."
Cheers erupted from his crew in approval of their mutual goals and Robert laughed heartily before clapping his captain on the back with pride, "Couldn't have said it better meself."
"We're with you to the bitter end, captain" Caroline promised with a firm nod to her husband because he was truly doing the best he could. His heart held the kindest intentions, even if he had to shed blood to save the world from those who would cause greater harm. One day, Cora would know the truth of their past and actions in the Revolutionary War and the one between their secret factions. She could only hope to see her child grow up as she broke away from the dispersing crew to tell her second-in-command, "Unfurl the sails."
She and Adam headed for the crow's nest on each of the Aquila's mast, using the speedy pulley system to go to their battle stations. Her protégé had been taught all she knew to manage his crew on the main mast while she stuck to the rear mast to convey important messages and orders between the captain and her team. Elizabeth and Clipper settled under the nook beneath Ratonhnhaké:ton's captain's helm to share some shade and stability. Ratonhnhaké:ton nodded to the duo with a silent order to stay safe before ascending the stairs with Robert behind him.
He gripped the wheel as its old familiarity returned to his fingers and wished she was on an excursion rather than warfare. The Aquila deserved a good retirement and he aimed to return her home to be free from the war. While the crew pulled up the anchor to release her to the sea, Robert inquired with a warm smile, "Captain, your orders?"
Just like old times. Ratonhnhaké:ton offered a faint smile, wishing it were under peaceful circumstances. The old sailor had already requested for Cora to take a trip on the Aquila after telling her of their more innocent stories by a campfire. He wanted to do so many things with his daughter but had little time to do so with the Templars at large. Taking a deep breath, he gripped the wheel tightly and ordered, "Full sail."
Robert was more than happy to see that fire return to his captain and looked up to the crow's nest to yell, "Full sail, Burnett!"
Caroline wasted no time echoing that order to her team on the masts to bellow, "Full sail, boys! Straight south to New York's harbor!"
She spared one last glance back at her childhood home, the green canopies of the pine shrouding her homestead. Further inland, her daughter lay asleep while she and Ratonhnhaké:ton escaped to fight one of their greatest enemies. Tearing her gaze away, she reminded herself to focus on returning home to Cora because she was only leaving temporarily.
Ratonhnhaké:ton echoed his wife's determined voice to their single most important target, "We do not stop until Ft. George is in our sights!"
Robert signaled for the departure bell to be rung as the sails drew taut against the wind and heard a resounding bell from the Vaillante. The Aquila lurched forward to begin her journey, catching Elizabeth and Clipper off balance with the force behind her movement. The two clung to the rails of the stairs as the sleek frigate picked up speed while Ratonhnhaké:ton steered her away from Davenport to the open sea. The Vaillante was not far in following as they kept their masts at half-sail to allow the Aquila to sail ahead first without hindrance. Once the mighty frigate escaped the cove, the second ship opened their own sails fully to follow loyally. They were setting a route for the south to meet their enemies head-on but this time, the Aquila had friends for the ride.
A/N: And the naval battle for the Chesapeake Bay is about to unfold! Haytham worries more for his grandchild now than anything else so the Fort George battle will be interesting. Originally, Cora was not meant to be part of the storyline until after the game storyline ended but entering her early changed the dynamics between everyone. Haytham is a deep and complex character so adding a little child that looks up to him, unlike Connor, adds another layer to him. Since the French are involved, I also wanted to add Aveline as a secondary support for the main team as they push forward.
Thank you again for reading this new chapter as always!
East Coast Captain: The Kenway reunions are the most fun to write with Cora being oblivious to Haytham's and Connor's squabbling. I've been reading more books on the pioneer era since it's not only interesting but dangerous to head west, unaware if one would survive the trip. It takes a lot of bravery to undergo such a journey into the unknown. Connor is already a survivalist on his own and it will carry on with his kids, especially as he grows older and sees how natives continue to be treated by the new nation. I can definitely see Cora meeting Jennifer in the future, especially since she and Haytham exchange letters so he will undoubtedly boast about his precious grandbaby.
KenyanHammer: Thank you very much! After this chapter, I believe it's no more than seven chapters to end Connor's storyline.
ThyDevoutBeliever: Haytham is a hard nut to crack but he loves grandchild, much to Connor's dismay (but he is growing to accept that). All of his lost chances with him are being poured onto Cora, especially now that she is retaining memories. The father-son showdown has always been a memorable fight but I have made Haytham deviate from his original plan by creating Cora earlier in the story. He's a really good character I love to write.
iHateFridays: Thank you!
Sumwidge: Thank you, I don't pump out my chapters as quickly as I used to in the beginning but those breaks have allowed me to change so much in the original outline. Connor and Caroline were never meant to marry until after the 1783 cannon ending but readers loved their interactions that I married them earlier. Cora's creation was the same, she was written in earlier which has changed Haytham's dedication to the Templar cause as she ties him to their shattered father. The readers have shaped this tale as much as I have writing it.
Next Chapter Excerpt:
The arrival of the French allowed Ratonhnhaké:ton to meet with Admiral de Grasse again for the next stage of his plan. The Aquila and Vaillante were trying to patch up their ships, and their crew, with the time given to them during this meeting along with borrowing ammunition from the other ships. They had held the line alone while all their other escorts sunk to the sea but the French forces were able to retrieve some of their sailors afterwards. Ratonhnhaké:ton promised to uphold his end to buy them time and kept his word; now it was the other captain's turn.
The Admiral was not as skeptical of the other captain's skill with their new interaction, remarking matter-of-factly, "They say you took down the man-of-war all alone. Perhaps Lafayette did not exaggerate when he spoke of your abilities. As promised, my ships are yours to command. What do you require?"
"Five of them must enter New York's harbor, flying British flags" he answered carefully for the naval infiltration team that would distract the fortress. He needed the French to buy him time to enter Ft. George and kill Lee, which would ultimately hand over the fortress to the Patriots and their allies.
De Grasse, on the other hand, was flabbergasted at his true intent and sputtered, "Wait, wait. I thought you might need some pirates killed or goods transported. Instead you ask for us to, what, shell New York?"
Ratonhnhaké:ton shook his head before answered politely, "No. Of course not."
This answer relieved the captain momentarily at avoiding a fight with an entire city and he sighed, "Ah. . ."
"Only part of it" Ratonhnhaké:ton revealed casually about their prime target and tried to keep a straight face when the other man glared in question.
"Explain yourself" De Grasse ordered with an airy sigh at what insane ploy he would have to undergo. Lafayette was already daring in his own right so he was not surprised to see he kept similar friends. Hopefully, he would not endure a watery grave by that evening.
Ratonhnhaké:ton did not mean to imply the city of civilians would be under siege, or send his ships inwards to be shot down, and clarified, "I mean to infiltrate Fort George. But it is too well-guarded. Cannon fire will breach its walls and scatter its guards."
De Grasse understood his plan at shaking the fortress only, unknown to its true purpose, and nodded with agreement, "And a ship that flies the French flag could never get near it . . ."
"You understand, then?" Ratonhnhaké:ton asked carefully because he did not want his plan to fail before striking the fortress. Otherwise, he would have to return to the drawing board and retreat with the battered Aquila. His crew, his wife, the Valliante, and Aveline would not be happy.
De Grasse shook his head to state bluntly without hestation, "Not at all. But a promise is a promise - even when made to a lunatique."
"I will light a signal fire when it is time for you to attack" he replied calmly, ignoring the insult but he did have a penchant for daring moves. Still, the majority of his decisions always paid off in success. With his friends and team behind him, he was even more confident to win today.
Ratonhnhaké:ton departed the French vessel when De Grasse began shouting orders and returned swiftly to his own ship. He needed to disembark the Aquila to meet with his Assassins to infiltrate the fort and granted Robert control over the ship to head to the port. The Vaillante would also stay out of the fight since it was too fresh from battle to slide with the French ships undetected. He could ask no more of them after that naval battle and would let them restock before their return to Davenport for medical aid. The Aquila would follow as well but Caroline requested that their vessel wait until their captain was safely back onboard. They would not be leaving the city without him and Robert seconded that motion.
While Ratonhnhaké:ton changed from his captain's attire to his Assassin robes, Caroline snuck inside their shared cabin. While they returned to port, she sought one last moment with him before he was sent into another raging battle. He was an indomitable force of nature and she believed he would achieve his goal today with so many at his side the whole way. Ratonhnhaké:ton was one step ahead of his wife when he heard the creaking floorboards and raised his hood over his dark hair, turning around to smile faintly at her, "You are not coming with me."
She would not deny that was her first choice but conceded to his ultimate decision to stay behind. Her faith would lie with the Assassins to watch over both he and Elizabeth after their entry into the tunnels below the fort. It was a tough internal struggle to not sneak off the ship and trail after them but she stuck to her orders. Crossing her arms, she pretended to feign ignorance and chided, "I didn't say a word."
"I know you too well" he replied with amusement at her offended pout which lightened the tense mood. Neither wanted to leave the other but he had to ensure Cora would have her mother return that day. He promised to keep his wife safe and leading her straight to Lee would be dangerous. At the same time, he needed a second leader for the naval crew while he was away and instructed her, "I need you here with Mr. Faulkner to watch over our crew. I have the others."
"Aye, aye, cap'n" she obliged respectfully with a wavering voice but embraced him tightly around the shoulders. Separating from him during battle was the worst heartache but she had orders to follow. They were no longer the childless couple from years prior and had to preserve the future. She did not want to return home without him and pleaded quietly, "Please, return to us safely. Cora waits for you."
He kissed her forehead, relieved that his naval crew would be kept out of the firefight while the next team prepared for combat. She would not follow him on that road but he admired her perseverance to jump into the jaws of death to protect him. He cherished the loyalty of his wife, grateful she didn't tire of his fight, and told her with regret, "For many years I have told you one more fight and it has been a lie . . . I hope today is the day it rings true."
"It will" she reassured with a fond smile because he needed to enter this fight confidently. There was no room for error this time with so much weighing in the balance. He inspired all of them to believe the very best in themselves and she would encourage him to the very end. Hugging him tightly, she wanted a few more precious seconds with him before releasing him to chaos and whispered, "Give him hell."
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