Ill Winds at the Shattered Skull...

[Eryn Darkthorn]

*shakes head*

I hope that you remembered to keep a cool head yourself when you found her. I know nothing tries my patience so much as family members getting themselves into trouble.. Please be careful on your journey and let us know how it all turns out!

[Capt Bloody Jack]

This be disturbing news indeed! Jack being a criminal already may haps raid that peasent villiage to be a rescuing a sister of the salt. These filthy magestrates needs be to pay the price fer there corruption! Jack be a pirate, but these magistrates be the real low-life scum o' sosaria. Har Har Jack be a real admirer of Bella Rose! Jack be assembling his crew and preparing for a raid! Jack set sail on the evening tide!

Upon entering the town I noticed many guards mulling about. There was certainly a criminal element in the town and more than i had ever seen before. I approached one of the guards and asked where the magistrates office was and was told he was presently hold up at the Town Hall on the north western side of town. Knowing this town like i do i realized it was not that far from the tavern itself where Bella had been arrested. Riding slowly and being ever so observant of the surroundings i headed to the stable to put my horse up from his long ride.
The stable master told me he would take good care of my steed and for me to be sure to watch myself while in town. There were rumors that evil had come to the town the likes of which the people hadnt seen in a long time.
Great!! I thought. Just what i needed to hear. I set out down the lane towards the town hall and as i was passing the Shattered Skull tavern i noticed alot of people milling around outside the tavern as well as inside. The doors to the tavern were wide open and from the sounds and smells i could only assume it was packed to the rafters . I had never seen this place so full. It was apparent that something was going on but i wasnt about to find out what. As i passed there were several comments yelled out to me. I just smiled and bowed my head to them and continued on. My goodness, and these are the rabble my sister associates with. She truly is a crazy one. Approaching the town hall i was very disturbed to see that several guards were place at various points around and in front of the building. Some where along the course of my sister's incarciration the word had gotten out she had been jailed. The magistrate has no intentions of her escape for sure. I continued on to the hall. I had to know exactly what was going on.

Upon approaching the town hall i was stopped at the door by a guard and questioned about my business. I told the guard i was there to talk to an architect about building a house and he let me enter the building. When i entered there were several people there moving about in a normal business fashion. I walked up to a table that held three books and in one book i read a passage that told of the arrest of my sister and about the need for information about Bella and her crew. Also it was said she would stay there until her trial.
This did not set well with me at all. There had to be more to this arrest than i was told and i knew i had to find out. Looking about i found the office of the mayor Blythe and i knocked on the door. Presently the door opened and i was shown inside. The mayor sat at her desk which was piled high with parchments and papers. She was apparently very busy. I tried to make my visit as brief as possible.
I introduced myself as Aletta Turlowe(and for all that is holy i hope dear Aletta wont mind me using her name) and the Mayor was kind enough to ask me to sit. I told her i had heard news of the arrest of the Pirate Bella Rose and explained that i had some news of this woman. Blythe was quite interested. I told her that i had seen this woman only a few days earlier and that she only had hinted to going to Skara to meet some friends and then was going to look for her sisters.
Blythe asked me where i had seen Bella and i told her that i saw her at the Cat's Lair in Britain . She asked if i knew anything about the whereabouts of the ship and crew and i told her i had no idea. She thanked me and then i was shown the door. She didnt seem eager to disclose any information after that.
Frustrated i headed to the inn just south of the town hall and took a room there. It was clear i was going to have to do some investigating on my own. And that i was going to have to do some disguising of myself in order to gain access to my sister.

I wondered if that be Bella's Ship moored in pirate's cove. One of my crew spoted the ship whilst taking his turn aloft in the crows nest. I of course cursed him for lies, until I saw it myself. The scuttlebutt in the last port o' call said the local magistrate planned on hangin' the poor lass, to set example for the rest of us rabble. They be stirrin' up false charges, just to be washing her blood off thier hands, so hurry lass.

A Pirate in the hands of the law, will crush ye faster than the depths of Davey Jones' locker.

As i left my room at the Falconer's Inn i went in search of someone to help me with my disguise. It didnt take too long to find a fellow that was of course that of the persuasion i was looking for. When i approached this man he started to sidestep his way into the shadows until i called out to him and he froze in his tracks. Apparently when you openly call out to a thief it terrifies the hell out of them. Yardley courteously introduced himself and was very cordial to me. But of course since i was holding a dagger to his heart as we spoke he was more than friendly. I expressed my need for a disguise and he told me he would help. I gave him my room number at the inn and told him to meet me there in one hour.
Within five minutes to the hour Yardley knocked quietly on my door and i let him enter. With him he brought clothing and such to befit my disquise. After the completion of my costume i generously paid Yardley and as he was leaving he told me he would be at my disposal if i needed him. Tossing another few coins in his direction i asked him if he had heard anything about Bella Rose . He told me all he knew was that she was being falsely accused of a murder and that she was being held in the town hall. He did tell me that she was not being all that well guarded as the magistrate felt there was no way anyone would try and help her escape. I continued to ask him questions and found out that there may be a way to gain access to her room without the guards knowing but it could not be done alone. Yardley expressed great interest in trying to get more information for me and i agreed. He then bowed and set out to get started on his task.
I myself quietly left my room and headed back to the Shattered Skull. With my costume in place i could easily put myself in the thick of the crowd and keep my ears to the conversations within. Here i should be able to get some more information on my sister's troubles.

As i entered the tavern i couldnt help but notice many of the people had already left but there were still a few around that looked measurably capable of leaking some information. I approached the barkeep and asked if i could play some music and he was more than happy to let me play. Seating myself on a stool near the bartop i began to play a jovial bit of music i learned from long ago. Singing pirate songs in a tavern full of the like made for an interesting time indeed. The folk around began dancing and singing along with me and many a coin were dropped in my hat i had sat on the stool next to me. After about an hour or so the drunken crowd began to calm down and i had also mellowed my music a abit to help fit the mood. Lumbering at the tables and falling asleep in dark corners the patrons were indeed winding down. On the other side of the room i saw Yardley standing in the edge of the shadows. He motioned to me that he needed to talk. I told the barkeep that i needed to take a break and he agreed. Soon he would be cleaning out the rabble and settling in for the night.
I walked over to the table near Yardley and in the shadows he whispered to me that there was one person here i could get information from. Describing the fellow to me i looked about and saw who he was talking about. A raggedy looking man sitting alone near the bar. The gift of gold i left on the table for Yardley was quickly taken and he left the tavern without the hint of ever being there. I approached the table of the old man and graciously asked if i could sit. He welcomed me and expressed his gradtitude of the entertainment i provided. He told me he hadnt heard such music and singing in quite a long time. I offered to buy him some food and drink and he accepted without argument. As he ate and drank he told me of all the ill will that had taken place in the last few days. He expressed how many of the folk around were distressed about the magistrate's iron hand against many in the town. Many of the merchants and sea travelers are beginning to bypass Skara Brae due to the actions of the magistrate and the faction leaders holding the town. He even went as far to say that the mayor was bought and that is why things have changed so much. After a bit of listening to him i asked if he knew of what had happened to Bella Rose and why she was arrested. He said that from what he knew she was wrongfully accused and taken into custody. Seems there was an adventurer named Maxwell who was trying to book passage on Bella's ship to Vesper. He needed to transport some cargo there and wanted the best on the seas to take him there. Bella of course offered her services for a price and Maxwell did not refuse her. Of course not many would refuse Bella Rose. She has always been fair when it came to business. The old man named Tobias continued on that he was hired by Bella to help Maxwell load his cargo on board her ship. He even named the ship, The Black Rose. I knew he had to be telling the truth for that ship used to be mine. He said once they got the cargo on board that Maxwell headed back to the tavern and that was the last he was seen.
After several more gulps of ale Tobias then told me that come morning when Bella was leaving the inn she was followed by the guards of the town and was arrested at the docks for the murder of Maxwell the adventurer. She tried to explain that there was no way she had murdered Maxwell as she had been in her room at the time he was killed but she could not prove any of this. Tobias said that she offered no resistance to the arrest and went willingly. He sighed long and shallow as if he was in depair.
I asked why he was so upset over this woman's arrest and he told me that he would want no harm to come to Bella Rose as she was always kind to him and often bought him food and drink. She offered him jobs from time to time to help him out when he needed help. Although she is a pirateer she still had a kind soul to those less fortunate. That is why the people of Skara Brae are upset over this turn of events. A stranger comes to town and causes trouble for one of their favorites it tends to upset the citizens of the town. There has been talk as well that the citizens are thinking of hiring someone to get rid of the mayor and get their fair town back from the evils of the factions. After hearing all this news i decided that there had to be a way to get in to see Bella. I bid Tobias farewell and left a small pouch at his side and i made my way back to the inn.
As i reached the back of the inn i felt the unnerving feeling that i was being followed. Increasing my pace i entered the inn and made way to my room. Lighting the candle on the table by the door i noticed i was not alone in my room.

I let my eyes adjust to the mixture of light and dark in the room as i scanned to see who was there. The smell of sweat and dirt were very strong and yet it seemed familiar. As my eyes glanced across the room there sitting in the chair was a ragged and tattered form of a woman. A glint of light flicked through the air as i saw she was sitting there balancing a dagger tip off the end of her finger most gingerly. When i approached i recognized this woman immediately.
"What the hell are you doing here. I thought you were with the ship"
She grinned brightly and then tossed the dagger in the air letting it fall point down onto the table next to her.
" Aye Captain . I was on the ship but when Jordy returned with news of Bella i made way to shore on my own to check things out. Jordy didnt tell me he had sent word to you." Frowning she stretched her legs and groaned from obvious fatigue of her journey.
"The little squib would run to you when there was trouble like this. But what in the world would you be able to do. You bein a noble lady now and all. You have no business getting involved with the likes of us anymore."
I walked to the bed and sat on the edge tossing the remains of my disguise on the floor. Looking into her face i was reminded of all the things i had left behind and her comments angered me.
"Aye, dear cousin i should leave it alone but she is my baby sister in fact and that alone gives me every right to stick my nose into this bloody mess."
She stretched again and stood slowly. I could see that her journey here was a hard one. I motioned for her to make use of the water pitcher and bowl . She tossed her ragged hat on the bed and began to wash herself.
"You know cousin if you hadnt left her alone to finish your cause she would never of gotten into this mess. I tried hard to make her wary of the dangers of trusting too much but she still had that damned innocence about her."
She washed and splashed the water about trying to remove the grime from her face and neck. It would take more that a pitcher of water to clean this wench up I thought to myself.
"Remember Katarina it wasnt me who told the stories of our adventures that made her want to join us. You and you alone were the one who filled her head with tales of the high seas and the plundering of ships and towns. You alone were the cause of her being led astray. I tried to convince her to not come along but what was i to do. I couldnt leave her alone. After our parents died i had no real choice."
This conversation was not going to help any . All the blaming and accusations would not help me in getting Bella out of the gallows. After my comment to her she just tossed her wet hair about and walked over to the bed and lay down.
"I am tired dear cousin. Let me rest and then we shall see what we can do to pluck sweet Bella from the hangman's noose. I am too weary to bicker with you right now."
She lay down and after her words she drifted off to sleep. Approaching the bed slowly i reached for the blanket at the foot of the bed and covered her gently. The memories of two young girls following me through my world of chaos flooded my mind. Two little whipets with red pony tails flapping in the wind became humorous to me. But those two were better than any man i had on the ship and did more work than any five. How could i refuse them both anything. It was becoming apparent to me that no matter how hard and far you run you can never outrun your past.
I sat down in the chair across the room and gazed out the window. The dawn was approaching and i had much work to do.
Shortly before the sun rose there was a gentle tap on the door. I thought to myself who would be at my door at this hour. But then again i almost knew it would bring me ill news.

Upon entering my house i notice a piece of parchement attached to the message board at my house. Seems that my dear sister had gotten into a bit of trouble in Skara Brae. As usual she was hanging out at the Shattered Skull Tavern and after hours of drinking and gaming a fight broke out. The message was from one of her crewmen asking that i come and get her out of the jail of the local magistrate. He was unable to do so as he and the crew were told by her to set sail and moor the ship far off the coast as to keep the ship from being drydocked by the law. He rented a horse from the stables and brought the message to me in hopes that i would be able to help. So i sit here and try to decide whether it would be wise of me to put my reputation on the line to help my sister. I do not know the details of her arrest but i am almost certain it is fabrication. She has learned the hard way and would not endanger her crew and ship in such a manner.
Gathering my thoughts and a few provisions i will set out upon my journey to Skara to see what the scoundrel maid has gotten herself into. Bella Rose will be the death of me yet.

When i opened the door there was no one there. Only a tray of food and drink with a note sitting on the tray by a vase. The vase had a single rose in it and was the most fragrant i had smelled in a long while. Picking up the tray i peeked into the hall to see if anyone was around and there was no one in sight. Pulling back inside the room I shut the door quietly and placed the tray on the table. With a sigh i sat down and took the note in my hand. I didnt recognize the writing on the front. All it said was Mistress Rose. Hell!! That could mean anyone. Was this to me or to Bella. Dismissing ethics i broke the seal of wax and prepared to read the note.
My dearest Mistress Rose,
I hope this message bears good tidings to you. I have heard of the distress your sister has caused and I offer my services to you. I have information that could be vital to help in the release of your sister but i am afraid that my coming forth with such would only endanger myself. It is true that on the night your sister was to have murdered someone she was with me at the Falconer's Inn. Indeed we shared the same room for which you are in now. Seems that room has a mark for harboring the lovely Rose sisters. And since your sister and I maintain that room for quite a long time I am most certain that if prompted the innkeeper would confide in you and help with testifying on your sister's behalf. Meyer the innkeeper has been a true and trusted friend of ours for a long time. He once sailed with me in the past and has seen fit to hang up his pirate garb and become respectable for which Bella and I both assisted him in doing.
As i said i am unable to come forward and provide proof of your sister's innocence in this matter as that would put me close to the gallows myself . And part of the "Pirate Code" we try to abide by doesnt permit me to get myself hanged. Your dear sister knows this and wouldnt allow me to such anyways. Oh she is such a charmer but she can be ruthless if put to the task. You did well in teaching her the ways of our world. And you did well to let her hold a bit of measure in her own right towards humanity. She looks out for her own and they know well to appreciate it.
Inside a small chest under the bed you will find some items of ours that may help in your quest to release your sister from the town idiots. They were very safe there as Meyer never lets this room out to anyone but us. Us meaning from Bella and my crew.
I shall keep my ear to the wind if you need any assistance i might be able to give. When and if you see your sister give her my regards.
Captain Bloody Jack.

I almost couldnt believe my eyes when i read this. So she was with someone that night. Tobias was correct when he told me this. This had shed quite a bit of light on the situation but now i needed to decide what my next course of action was to be. I looked at the food on the table and decided it best i could think better on a full stomach. And i wanted Kat to get some more sleep as well.

The sun began to show through the curtained window and Katarina was beginning to stir. I, myself was very tired but knew i had work to do still this day. Sitting on the floor at the end of the bed i reached underneath and pulled out the small chest that Jack had mentioned. And of course it was locked. Pirates! Not very trustworthy indeed. Remembering my pack I went and got my picking kit and sat back down to get started on the lock. It had been quite a while since I did this but certainly it shouldnt take me too long. After breaking three picks it finally came unlocked. Wonder if they will be upset i broke it. Who cares. Opening the lid of the chest the scent of stale ale and sweat met my nose. As I looked up Katarina was leaning over the end of the bed watching intently at my progression of the chest. A slight grinned appeared on her face as she watched me.
"Ah, I see you havent lost the touch have you cousin. Seems old tricks are hard to forget no matter how hard you try."
"Shut up and go eat to scaverous dog. We have lots of work to do and I need you on your toes so to speak. Since you have come here it will be wise for you to do as you are told or you might end up on the gallows as well. "
Giggling like a school girl she jumped off the bed and went to sit and eat what was left of the food but kept a watchful eye on my doings. Lifting the lid again I began to rummage through the items. There didnt seem to be too much here that would help me except a ship key , some old treasure maps and a book. Picking up the book felt like picking up a piece of my soul and after opening it my past jumped at me like a spector in the night. This was my old journal. Why would Bella keep my journal. Leafing through some of the pages brought back some exciting memories. Further to the back of the book there were pages written not of my hand. Bella. She had left numerous names and locations where they could be found. Seems that former crew members gave her locations of their whereabouts in case of emergencies. Emergencies!!! By hell this was one and for certain I could use all the help i could get. But first i needed to see Bella and get some information from her . Maybe between the two of us we could devise a plan to end this situation she was in.
Grabbing the satchel that had my bard costume I fumbled around to find if there were any other disguises in it. Of course there was one. Tavern wench. Oh how charming. Well i had no recourse but to don the outfit and make my way to the town hall and see if I could gain access to my sister.
"Kat. I need you to go to the tailor shop and buy a few items for me. Take this list and get exactly what i tell you to. On your way back stop downstairs and ask Meyer to fix up a tray of food and drink. I will need this as well."
After handing Kat some coins I began to get myself dressed. As she went out the door i could hear her laughing out loud. She will pay for that i guarantee.

After about half and hour Kat returned with the clothing and food i asked her to get. When she entered the room she stood back in amazement when she saw me standing there. Setting down the bad and tray she blinked several times trying to decide if she knew who i was.
"Is this good or bad. Do i look like a typical tavern wench." I smiled greatly and from the look on her face i was certain i had done well.
"Pardon me my lady but have you seen my ugly cousin. She was in here earlier but alas i see she has left." Grinning from ear to ear we both let out a laugh and then realized we needed to be quiet.
Sitting carefully i took a pen in hand and started writing out missives for Kat to deliver. Writing out over a dozen notes was tiring but it would have to be done. Giving her instructions to find Yardley and Tobias and also a pouch of gold I sent her off to deliver my messages. But before she left I threw the sack of clothing she had bought.
"Please before you leave change your clothes and bath a bit. You are quite ripe for the picking cousin. I dont want my allies to drop dead from the stench."
Smirking and turning with a twist of her hip she walked to the washstand and began her cleaning ritual.
"I truly dont see why your kind spends so much time with cleanliness. You know i will only get dirty again. And besides its known that the dirtier you are the less likely you are to catch disease and sickness. " With that she tossed a hand full of water at me and continued.
" Well dear I tend to like the smell of the fresh air as opposed to the brine of sweat and swoller. I have met pigs that arent as dirty as you. Meyer will be vexxed to have to change these sheets. He will probably burn them when you are through. Now hurry so you can get those delivered. I need it done quickly we only have a couple of days left."
At those words she moved quickly to finish and I took up the tray and made for the door. This was going to take so serious acting on my part to pass as a tavern girl. And I hoped I was up to task. Wishing each other luck we both passed through the door and made our way out to do our deeds. By the grace of the gods I do hope we both succeed.

There seemed to be a light mist and fog in the town this morning. Hopefully this will help in my getting past those dratted guards at the town hall. Once the building was in view I searched my mind on how it would be for me to approach. Only one guard at the main door. How wonderful. This shouldnt be too hard. Balancing the tray and the small bag on my arms would be easy if I didnt have to sway my hips in such a vulgar fashion. Truly the lifestyle of serving wenches is greatly dramatized. This is one job I would hate to have. The guard stood looking ahead of himself and paid no attention to my approach until I was infront of him. Looking me up and down he gave a shifty grin and opened the door. Apparently he was used to such women coming to the hall. Entering the door there was only one guard inside as well. Funny, they dont have any concerns that there might be anyone out there to try and help Bella escape. This might not be so hard at all.
The guard at her door stopped me and inspected the tray and the bag. Obviously looking for weapons. Ha! I'm not that stupid. What bafoons these guards are. He motioned for me to set the tray and bag down and then approached me with a slight grin on his face. Idiots! These were two men I truly wish i could dispatch quickly but that will have to wait.
"I need to search your person before entering the room dearie. Dont want you to be sneakin in a knife or somethin to that wench inside." He started pawing me with clumsy hands and when he began to get a little too friendly I slapped his hands away.
"Fool! Do you honestly think I would do such a thing. That wench inside costs me more business than anyone when she is in town. I truly cant wait to see her hang and then maybe things can get back to normal around here. MY business suffers because of her if you know what I mean." Winking at the man put my meaning across to him and he smiled devilishly at my comment. After that he helped me pick up the tray and bag and opened the door for me. As I entered he gave me a quick pat on the bottom and closed the door behind me. Yes, this one will have to go.
Looking across the room I saw Bella lying on a small cot at the back of the room. Laying on her back with one foot resting a bent knee and her arms casually bent behind her head. Humm. Not a care in the world. For someone about to die she didnt seem too worried. Walking to the table I set the tray down and roughly threw the bag at her on the bed. When the bag hit her in the belly she jumped and sat up on the bed. Looking at me with disgust she threw the bag on the floor.
"I have brought you some food and a change of clothing. Cloth is inside as well so you might wash if you feel the need." Turning slowly I stood towards her with my hands on my hips and smiled brightly. When she looked into my eyes I could see you knew who I was immediately. With a welcoming grin she jumped from the bed and ran to me with arms opened wide.
"Well! It's about damn time you showed up. I was beginning to think you had forsaken me and left me here to hang. Dont you think you've spent enough time catting around town."
"Catting around town. Are you crazy? No, wait dont answer that. I have been trying to find out just the hell's been going on here and trying to figure out a way to get you out of this mess you fool." The distress in my voice seemed to calm her down a bit as she went back to the bed and plopped down in disgust. That was when I saw for the first time that she was indeed worried about her situation.
"I am truly sorry, Crimson. This was the last thing I wanted you to have to deal with. But honestly this has all been a big mistake. There was no way I could of murdered that man. I...I....was busy that night." Her faced seemed to turn a light shade of red. Embarrassed. That was the last thing I thought she would be feeling. Like I never knew about her promiscuous activities. Ha!
"Don't bandy words with me Bella. I know you were with Jack that night. He sent word to me that he was with you. Also he sends his regards. But he cant come forward to attest your innocence and you know that. And I wouldn't expect him to either. The company you keep sometimes amazes me." With those words her eyes seemed to tear and a smiled crossed her face as if she were remembering that night.
"Do not put on the tears for me, sister. I have seen them all before. You have by far gotten yourself into some deep troubles and for the life of me I am trying to figure a way out of it. Katarina is on her way now to enlist help but I need to find more information about this Maxwell person. "
At that moment there was a knock at the door and we both just about jumped out of our skin. Hurriedly she sat at the table and I began setting the food out for her. When the door opened the guard entered and said it was time for me to leave. Giving a quick look around the room I noticed the window to the back. With my eyes I motioned to Bella my findings and she blinked her acknowledgment. Turning I flicked my dress towards her in disgust and followed the guard out the door.
Before he could reach me I made for the other end of the building and went out the front. Smiling shyly at the outer guard I made my way back to the inn.

Making her way across the water to the mainland from Skara, Katarina headed down the coastline towards the south. At a moderate pace she made it to the ship that was moored just off shore. In the mist and fog it couldnt be seen but she knew where it was. The on the water's edge was the small dingy she used to come to shore with. Casting off the line she rowed her way back to the ship. Once on board she gathered a few of the crew and assigned them the duty of delivering the messages that Crimson had given her. Just inland there was a home of an old member who had a small farm there. This is where they would all find mounts to help in their tasks. Once they all loaded into the small craft they made way to shore again and headed to the farm.
Outside the small cottage they saw their old friend outside chopping firewood. He had indeed aged a bit over the last few years. Never did they imagine he was that old. At the approach of the group he glanced intently as if trying to recognize anyone. Once he caught sight of Katarina he knew something was amiss.
"By my whiskers on end if it isnt Miss Katarina. What in the world are you doing in these parts this time of year. I would of thought you to be on the eastern waters by now." Smiling brightly he grabbed Kat and hugged her anxiously. The rest of the group patted him on the back and made their hellos to the old man.
"Dear old Jaccob. I have grave news for you. Mistress Bella is being held in Skara for murder and Mistress Crimson has sent me to collect a crew that might help in her freedom. The boys and I are in need of horses so we may be able to get our messages out quickly to the others. We are in a great hurry dear and need to be on our way. I was hoping you would be able to help us." Hanging her head a bit he could see the fatigue in her face.
"Oh my little one. You can have all that is here to help in the quest. I am surprised i didnt here any news of this goings on. There were a few scabberous dogs about here not more than a day or so ago and none seemed to hint at any trouble in town." Scratching his head in confusion he paced back and forth.
Pointing at one of the men he motioned for him to come closer. "You, boy. You go and make the horses ready. Miss Kat be needin them to complete her task." The boy did as he was told and the others entered the house to gather a few things they might need on their way.
Entering the house Kat went to the fireplace to warm herself a bit. Then reaching into her pack she pulled out small pouches of gold and dispersed them to the men along with the messages they were to deliver. After giving them their instructions she sent them on their way. Herself was not to go on this mission for she had every intention of heading back to Skara as soon as possible.
Jaccob pulled her to a chair and sat her down. Handing her a mug of warm cider and a plate of bread with cheese he insisted she eat and drink. He was always the one who would make sure the girls on the ship were taken care of. He asked Kat about how all the girls were doing now and wanted every detail of the fix that Bella had gotten into. After she explained what she knew she noticed there was a definite strangeness in Jaccob's face. Not wanting to ask him just yet she explained that Crimson had also hired a thief named Yardley to dispatch even more messages to others throughout the lands. He nodded his approval as he explained he knew Yardley and that he was to be trusted even though he was a thief. Laughing he told her not all thieves were bad as were not all pirates bad. They both sat and laughed at that comment.
After a few minutes passed she couldnt help but find out what had disturbed Jaccob when she explained the troubles in Skara. Stretching abit in the chair next to her he lay his head back on the cushion behind his head and let out a sigh.
"The news I have to tell you will not go well with Mistress Crimson, nor Bella. But I must tell you none the less."

Once reaching the inn Crimson headed straight to her room. Entering there was a sense of dread about it. Looking around the room nothing seemed to be disturbed or missing but she still had that odd sensation that things werent right. Changing out of her costume she walked to the washstand and began removing the grease paint and powder which was beginning to run from her sweat. Looking into the mirror she noticed a parchment tacked to the back of the door. By the gods she thought. What now. Cant these people contact me in the normal fashion. Cloak and daggar tactics were beginning to wear on her patience.
Turning she moved to the door to take now the note. No daggar held the note in place. But it was a fashionable hat pin of gold encrusted with several brightly colored gems. Certainly she hadnt gotten wind of what was going on. This was indeed becoming quite a family affair. But last she had heard of her she was off somewhere dealing with the Shadow Lords. Why on earth would she get involved in this. It wasnt exactly safe for her to be venturing about towns held by other factions. Sisters, she thought. Why had she been blessed with sisters.
Wiping the water from her neck and face she went to the chair, sat and began nibbling on bits of bread left from earlier that morning. Debating whether to read the note or not. Either by reading or not it still held no good news she was certain. With a deep breathe she opened up the note and began reading.

Dearest Sister,
Word has reached me here in Yew that our darling little Bella has gotten herself into trouble. From word of our spies in the city I have been told that this entire situation was set up by certain members of a secret organization. That of which I dont know much about. But it is someone's plans to rid the waterways of the pirate type and to take on a more formal form of piracy in order to make their fortunes. Funny to think that someon could actually believe they could take on such a venture. But with targeting Bella they have certainly put the pirate community on edge. She may not be blood thirsty as some but she has indeed been busy of late and someone isnt liking her new found fortune.
As for myself I am unable to come to Skara to help you but if you are in need of assistance you have only to ask. I do have connections outside the ShadowLords that could come to your aid. All you need is to ask. I am sure you are aware to a point of our base location so it would be easy enough for you to send word to me. I have also heard that they have delayed Bella's execution pending some missive sent from Britain. Apparently they are sending a higher authority of Britania to oversee her trial. It is possible that they may be transporting her to either Trinsic or to the city of Britain itself. I will have my contact in Skara Brae keep you informed. This may be an advantageous time for you dear sister so take heed and keep your eyes and ears open.
Good Luck and much love,
Scarlet Rose

Making her way up the coastline Katarina thought back on what Jaccob had said to her. This information would make Crimson very angry indeed. Needing to think on how she would approach her cousin with this news made her cringe. The sounds of the forest and the water's edge didnt make her feel any more comfortable. There were indeed strange things going on around this area and there didnt seem to be any evidence to why. Indistinct sounds in the brush and the bubbling sounds from the water had made Kat alert of everything around her. Finally the lights of Skara Brae could be seen more clearly and when she came up on the edge of the docks she saw there was no way she would be able to cross to the town this way. Great, she thought.
"Terrific. Absolutely fantastic! Not only am i tired, now i have to swim across to the other side. I am beginning to hate this town more and more everyday."
Backtracking her steps a ways she found a good place to cross. From across the way she could see the inn. She could even see the window to Crimson's room from where she stood. Inching into the water she shivered from the cool water and started to make her way across.
Once she reached the edge on the other side she slowly crept up the banks and made her way out and up to the brush nearby. Glancing up she could see Crimson sitting in the chair by the window. It looked as if she was distressed more than usual. Walking towards the front of the inn Katarina could see many people milling about the town. Seemed there was alot of activity this night in town. There must be something going on.
Crimson sat in the chair and stared at the message she had read from Scarlett. Could anything else go wrong. This was by far more troubling to her than before. What if they did move Bella to Brtain or Trinsic. She prayed to herself that the messages she sent out would bare good returns. She would need all the help she could get from these friends. Hopefully they were all in the places she remembered.
All at once the door to her room burst open and a wet figure jumped in and slammed the door closed. Dripping all over the floor the figure began stripping the wet clothes off and then stood there shivering. Crimson jumped to her feet and ran over with a blanket and covered the girl.
"Katarina! What the hell are you doing? Why are you all wet?"
With a tert look Kat just pushed past her and went to the chair to sit.
"I just thought maybe a late night swim would help me think, cousin."
They both smiled and then Crimson began to pick up the wet clothing and placed them in a pile near the door. Meyer will hate cleaning up this mess for certain. After Katarina stopped shivering Crimson handed her a glass of wine to help warm her up.
"Crim. You look tired. Why dont you take some rest for a bit and then we can talk"
Looking even more upset Crimson sat on the edge of the bed and slumped her shoulders as if she were too exhausted to hold them up anymore.
"No. I cant rest right now. I have recieved word from Scarlett. There may be an attempt to move Bella from Skara Brae and i need to be ready to strike if the time proves well."
Staring at Crimson with intent Katarina jumped up and began digging into a bag for some dry clothes. She was eager to get dressed so she could tell Crimson her news.
"That is not good news, cousin. For the information I gained from Jaccob would put Bella in even more danger if they did take her from the city." Approaching Crimson and setting hands on her shoulder she looked deep into her cousin's eyes. There seemed to be much fear in her eyes as Crimson could feel the tension in them and in Katarina's grip on her shoulders. Easing next to Crimson on the end of the bed she took her hands in hers and took a deep breath.
"Once I assembled a crew we took oar to the shore and headed for Jaccob's cabin just south of the main road from Skara. You know the place. When we reached there he helped gear up the men and i sent them off to deliver your messages. I explained to Jaccob what was going on and he was indeed suprised that he hadnt heard of anything. He did tell me that many old foes were around the area as some had passed his place only a few days ago. He then told me that indeed Bella was being set up for this so-called murder."
Crimson looked at Kat like she had lost her mind. So-called murder. What was she thinking. Again Kat took in a deep breath and stared at the floor when she continued to tell her of what Jaccob had said.
" Apparently this man that was murdered was in fact still alive. The man himself had been at Jaccob's the same night as the others that had come by. He even boasted about having finally gotten his revenge and that there was nothing anyone could do about it. But Jaccob had no idea he was talking about Bella. He said that it was inevitable that it would be over soon and he could take up where he had left off more than 10 years ago. Ten years Crimson. You know what that means?"
Listening intently the realization of what was happening began to hit her. Bella was being accused of a murder that didnt even take place. Being hanged for something she didnt even do by a man she didnt even know. Maxwell. Who the hell was Maxwell. She knew no one by that name, but of course names can be changed. But just who could it be. She had to think. All she knew was that ten years earlier was when she left the Black Rose and turned everything over to Bella. Now someone from that past was back and trying to destroy her sister. But who? Who from that time would have any remorse towards Bella. Bella. She had to find out more about this man. Tobias. She had to find Tobias, he would know.
Patting Katarina on the hands she pulled her to her feet. Leading her around the edge of the bed she pulled back the blankets and coaxed her into the bed.
"Rest Kat. I need to find someone with some answers and I think I might know who can help. If I can get but a few bits of information from him it might shed some light on this news. You did get all the messages sent off didnt you? I just hope that Yardley was successful as well. You rest I need to do some more thinking. There are things at work here that just dont sound right."
Kat sank back in the bed and pulled the covers up to her chin but she didnt sleep. She lay there watching Crimson. Pacing the floor like a caged animal and all the while she could almost here the wheels of thought turning in her head. Crimson was by far the most ingenious of all of them and she was sure Crimson would come up with plans to work it all out.

Running like the devil himself was chasing him Yardley made his way through the forest. After delivering his message and hoping the others had done their job as well he made way back to Skara Brae. Having been spotted by several guards in Vesper he was terrified that his message would be intercepted. But alas he had gotten away from them. Who would of thought those guards would be out that far from the city limits. He had even seen ships in the bay that seemed to have been placed in postion to guard the waterways. Something must be going on in those waters for certain. But he couldnt stay around long enough to find out what it was. He had heard of the invasion on Cove but surely the Royal guard wouldnt be out in the waters this far east. There were indeed strange things going on. Making his way towards the road he decided it best to try for Britain. Once there he could make his way across town and out to some measure of safety. Then heading on he could again make way to Skara. He had to get back to see if Mistress Crimson needed him further. Sending word through his thieves guild he knew she would soon be getting information about his whereabouts. She never was that trusting of thieves but he hoped she would trust him.
The inn was in sight now and there he would be able to rest a bit and try to send word out to Crimson. As he entered the SaltyDog Tavern he noticed a few familiar faces. Smiling he made his way to the stairway that lead to the lower level of the inn. There was the entrance to the thieves guild and it was there he could send out his message. Once inside the meeting room he walked to the glowing crystal on the floor and spoke into it. After a few seconds there was a short coded reply and he felt better already. This was good. She would know he would be returning soon.
Taking careful steps up to the main floor of the tavern he was greeted at the top by three hooded figures. Two grabbed him by the shoulders and the other followed behind. Dragging him from the inn they went towards the forest at the city edge. Once there he was tied to a tree and then darkness took him.

With the morning sun creeping into the room Crimson knew she hadnt slept at all. Tired and numb from the past few days were beginning to take a toll on her. When the knock at the door came it startled her so she thought her heart had stopped. Quickly she went to the door and there stood a boy with a deranged look on his face. He looked quite insane but she bade him to come into the room. He hesitated and then quickly handed her two notes and ran away. Damn these notes.
Walking over to the bed she saw that Kat had sat up in the bed and was looking quite rested. Sitting down she opened the paper and read it aloud so that Kat could hear.
To Mistress Rose,
I regret to inform you that Yardley, my brother was found killed this morn by the city guards in Britain. It was not far from out meeting place. It is said that he was taken from the inn by three hooded figures and lead away. By the time news had reached us it was too late. I do know that he had sent word to you that he had achieved his mission for you but afterwards was taken away. I am not certain though if you had recieved this message or not. I am deeply wounded by this turn of events and apologize to you dear lady if his mission was not successful. Under the circumstances our thieves guild will be unable to help you further in your quest. We have gone into hiding for now and will no longer be of use to you. Hopefully your other messengers were successful and things will work out for you.
Yours truly,
Langley of the Unseen Servants Guild


Hanging her head Crimson wiped a tear from her eye and she folded the mesage and handed it to Katarina. With shaking hands she opened the other message. Staring at the writing she could hardly believe it. It was indeed the message sent by Yardley. Oh how she wished she had read it first but how was she to know. Turning slightly she looked at Kat who was sitting very still and looking intently at her. She then turned back to the message and read it aloud.

My Mistress Rose,
I have successfully distributed your messages amongst my guildmates and they have taken route to deliver them for you. I myself have been successful on my delivery and have made my way back to Britain. There is much unrest in the City of Vesper but I atone that to the business of the invasion in Cove. A mysterious stranger has set loose the orcs on Cove so the entire area is brimming with Royal guards and such. Even the waterways are filled with Royal ships. Narrowly escaping sight of the guards in Vesper i did make my way back to Britain and after a meal and some rest i will be returning to Skara Brae. Anxiously awaiting my next task from you if you feel my services are needed.
Yours gratefully,
Yardley

Dropping the note on the bed Crimson covered her eyes. She couldnt believe out of all this that Yardley would be the first victim of circumstance. He died by doing her bidding and this wasnt what she wanted. Who were these hooded figures that killed him. They had to have soemthing to do with this Maxwell character. Thrusting herself to her feet she went to her bag and took out a change of clothing. She was going to have to go out and find Tobias. This was the one thing she needed do today if nothing else. She needed to find out more.
Katarina jumped from the bed and begain to dress as well. She was indeed going to do some searching herself. There had to be some news of this person and where he was hiding out at. She would head to the docks and talk to the local fisherman and see if they had any news as well. Soon. Soon she thought. The messages have been delivered she was most certain and help would be arriving . They needed to get a plan together.

The Shattered Skull seemed to be fairly busy for the early afternoon. Sitting in the back of the tavern eating a light meal Crimson looked around the room. No one in particular seemed to stand out to her. The usual patrons. And the staff seemed to be the usual ones working as well. Nothing out of the ordinary. After waving over a serving girl Crimson asked is she had seen any sign of Tobias around but the girl told her he hadnt been seen in a day or so. That seemed unusual to Crimson as Tobias was always around the tavern on any given day looking for handouts. Pushing back her plate she decided to walk about town and have a look around. In the days she had been here she hadnt really looked at the town. It had been years since she had been there last and there were a few changes. As she was walking to the door there was a scream heard from the back of the tavern. Everyone in the room seemed to jump and run out the door. Making her way to the back of the tavern where the crowd had gathered she pushed through and gasped at the sight she saw.
There against a tree not but a few feet from the back of the tavern was a man tied to a tree. The rumpled figure was so brittle looking that a wind might cause him to fall into pieces. As the tavernkeeper started to untie the man a note fell from the man's clothing and fell to the ground. No one seemed to notice. When the man was laid down on the ground the features of his face could be seen. Crimson jumped back in astonishment. No horror. Tobias. She wanted to scream out but there was no sound left in her lungs. She moved closer to the edge of the crowd and heard muted whispers through the crowd.
From the back of the mass she heard harsh voices as they approached. Guards.
Bowing her head down she eased back into the people and stayed out of sight as much as she could. The guards pushed past her and the others and gathered up the old man's body and walked back towards the town hall. All the voices seemed to be saying the same thing. Murder. Another murder. The people began to break up into smaller groups or go off alone but they dispersed from the area quickly. The tavernkeeper and the girl who had found Tobias looked straight at Crimson and then came to her.
The girl looked gravely at Crimson. "You...you were asking about Tobias werent you? Were you a friend of his? Who could of done this?"
Looking squarely at the two of them Crimson steeled herself. She had to confide in someone in this town or she would go crazy. Pulling them closely she began to talk in a low voice.
"Look. I did know Tobias and he was indeed a friend on my part. I dont know who did this but I have my suspicions. It seems that someone didnt want me to find out some information and they killed him to keep him from talking. I have found out that my sister, Bella Rose is innocent and since i have been here there have been some strange things happening. This is not the only death caused since Bella has been in jail. A young man who was helping me was also killed in Britain last night. I would appreciate if you would keep your eyes and ears open for me for anything out of the ordinary. There is someone in this town that wishes to see my sister dead and probably by now me as well. Be careful and dont trust the law here. They are in on all this. Whoever is behind this mess is paying off the officials and I must find out who it is. If you know anything please tell me."
The two nodded their heads in understanding and made way back into the tavern. Once out of sight Crimson looked down and saw the note that had fell from Tobias' rumpled body. She bent to pick it up. As she stood up she saw in the distance behind some trees someone was watching her. She couldnt make it out but the figure stood there and didnt move. Backing up slowly Crimson made way around the building and headed back to the inn.
The front door to the inn seemed heavier than usual. After pushing a bit harder it opened and she found Meyer standing next to it. He had an angry look on his face as she passed through the door. Grabbing her by the arm he slammed the door shut and bolted it.
"Mistress. You must be careful. They were here looking for you but only a few minutes ago. You must be more watchful."
"What are you talking about. They. Who was looking for me?"
"There were three hooded figures here looking for you and Miss Katarina. They said that they needed to talk to you."
"Three. Hooded. They must be the same hooded ones who killed Yardley last night. Meyer, you must keep this door locked. Only those who you know shall pass through here. Close off all the other rooms but this main hallway. Shutter and bolt the windows as well. It's no longer safe for us."
Pacing about the room for a moment she turned to Meyer.
"Tobias is dead. He was found behind the tavern. And there was someone watching me from a distance. Where is Kat? Has she come back yet?"
"No, Mistress. She left when you did. She hasnt returned or sent word. I do hope she is well. That little moffit cant stay out of trouble too long. She is her own worst enemy."
With that comment Crimson smiled. But the look of embarrassment on Meyer's face was even more comical. Patting him on the shoulder in assurance he relaxed and went on about his business of closing up the inn. Outside he was boarding up the windows and when asked he only exclaimed that he heard word a bad storm was coming and he was batting down the inn in case it got real bad. Crimson could never blame him for not being able to lie but this time he wasnt lying . There was a storm coming and it was going to be bad.

Indeed there was a light rain falling outside. Meyer had been right in predicting a storm coming. It wasn’t evident how bad it would get but one was brewing outside. The drops began to pelt on the roof more intently and the air inside the room was beginning to get thick. Smoke from the hearth and the sizzle of the rain in the flames made the room feel eery and uncomfortable. Usually this sort of setting was a comfort to Crimson but not this night. Reading the paper again she couldn’t help but think that the devil himself was dogging her trail. In the message it said that the recent deaths and the future ones were to be on her head from now til her judgement day. That the imprisonment of Bella was her fault as well and that anything from now on would be of her own doing. She would pay for her deception and lack of loyalty. There was no signature to this note and it confused her even more. Who. Who did she deceive? Who was she unloyal to?
The pounding on the back door startled her and Meyer. Quickly they moved to the door and through a small peep hole next to the door way Meyer could see that it was Katarina. Unbolting the door she opened it and let her in.
“Why in hell’s name is this place shut up so tightly? Don’t you think it will be a bit suspicious to have the only inn closed up like a damned drum?” Shaking off the rain from her cloak she stomped into the front room and sat by the fire to dry and warm herself.
“I was being watched this afternoon after Tobias was found so we thought it best to take precautions.”
Looking at Crimson like she had lost her mind she tossed her head from side to side slinging cold water about the room . “I am indeed getting tired of being wet all the time. By hell I don’t even get this wet aboard ship. And what the happened to Tobias?”
With a shrug Crimson sat down in the chair next to the fire and explained that Tobias had been murdered. Handing Kat the message that was on his body she also explained that someone was in the trees watching her. Katarina read the note and looked down at Crimson.
“This is bloody well getting irritating. I for one am getting tired of sculking around town and moving about in the shadows. I am not cut out for that sort of thing. That was your’s and Bella’s line of doing things….I need the open seas and my ship.”
“Oh stop blubbering on so. Once we get Bella we can get back to our own lives again. This will end soon I hope. I don’t much like doing all this shifting about either. “
Meyer stood back and smiled. Listening to them argue reminded him of days when they were all together on the Black Rose and how the girls were constantly arguing about one thing or another. But they always came to a conclusion that was mutual for all. Never did one reign over the other. This time it was different. The situation was strange to them. Never had they been in this trouble before.

The rain continued throughout the night and when dawn approached there was a fine mist lurking over the town. Crimson unbolted the door and stood there sipping a cup of tea and looking across the yard to the docks. There seemed to be several ships that had come in during the night. One looked vaguely familiar but she couldnt remember where she had seen it. The activity on the docks were normal. Fisherman scurrying about with nets and crates pulling in the previous days works to take to market. Scents of fish and salt filled the air and taking in a deep breath she felt a bit at ease. More so than she had been before this ever started.
On the deck that same ship she saw an old man appear from the cabin. Small in stature and covered by fairly common clothing he moved towards the side of the ship. Turning quickly he went back to the door and held it open. There Crimson saw a woman come through the door. Tall and slender the woman stood erect with very much an aire of propriety. Dressed in royal blue the woman's raven hair shined dark as nightand it flowed freely over her shoulders. As the woman came to the rail of the ship she looked about like she was remembering something about the place. Looking in the direction of the inn she pointed to her baggage on the deck and two men began collecting her things. Crimson sipped her tea and kept her eye on the two as they began to make way to the inn.
Looking as if she were floating on air, the woman continued on and the others fell in behind her. The closer she got to the front door the more familiar she looked to Crimson. That is when Kat came to the door and looked out. With a childlike shriek Kat burst through the door way and ran to the woman. Throwing her arms about the woman they embrassed and spun around with great enthusiasm. Sitting the girl back to the ground the woman looked ahead to Crimson and smiled so deeply that it brought a tear to Crimson's eye.
"Well cousin, I see you havent changed much over the years. Still as skeptical as ever. And here I thought i would be of assistance to you . Not even a hug or hello. My, my how times have changed."
With a slight grin Crimson then greeted her cousin with open arms and ushered her into the inn. The others followed and it was then that she recognized Jaccob. Frowning abit from confusion she went to him and gave him an embrace as well. Patting him on the back she led him inside and to a chair.
"About time you noticed ole Jaccob. Thought i was gonna have to take a stick to ya if you didnt."
With that they all chuckled and sat by the fire. The cool air creeped into the room once again and there was need of warming themselves again. Meyer hearing the commotion peeked into the room and saw that quests had arrived. Hurrying out he went to make some refreshments. From the looks of things it was gonna be a long afternoon.
Sitting down The woman began to remove her gloves and adjusted her dress for comfort. She didnt look very happy with her attire. Finally making one last brush of her skirt she sat back to relax.
"Well I am sure you are wondering why i am here." Looking at Crimson and Kat she knew that was being a bit understated. Their quizical looks went much deeper.
"I was sailing north around Dragon Isle when i came upon Dimitri. He told me of the trouble with Bella and i felt i had to come and offer my assistance. That is if you need it. By the looks of you two I am here just in the nick of time."
Crimson sat back and took a deep breath. She knew it would take a while to explain but she had to get it all out in one sitting. Some of the news she didnt want to have to repeat. As she began to explain the past few days she felt the weight of the world fall on her shoulders again. The news of Yardley and Tobias sent a chill down her spine but she finished telling all the news to her cousin.
Meyer then entered the room with a tray of cheeses and breads and a pot of hot tea. After pouring the tea he then left the room again He didnt need to hear what was being said as he knew it all and it unsettled him as well to hear it repeated.
Sipping her tea the woman sat back and seemed to fall into deep concentration. She had that same look on her face that Crimson always had when she was formulating a plan. Kat gave her a frowned look and then sighed as she knew what was happening. Looking at Crimson she noticed that she too was beginning to wander in her thoughts as well.
After a few moments passed the woman shifted in her seat and then reached for her small bag on the floor. Pulling out a deck of cards she motioned for them to go to the table and take a seat.
"Now that Polgara is here, we shall look and see what fates have in store for us. The cards just may very well tell us what we need to know."
"Oh hell. Pol you know you cant read those cards right. Ever since mother gave them to you never once have you been right. Put those things away. We need to study the facts that we have not putter around with those supersticious toys of yours."

With the turn of her nose Polgara sniffed at the air in disgust. She knew how to use the cards but never had Kat believed in them. Katarina had no use of magic and the arts of foretelling. She knew how to use them but chose not to. Such a waste to have the ability and not put it to good. Pol proceeded to lay the cards out on the table and meditate over them. Crimson sat calmly watching the display her cousin put on. She also had the call of magic but never used them for parlor tricks and such. Apparently Polgara decided that this was a way of income to use her gifts in. Petty magic tricks and light shows. What a waste.
Turning over the first card Pol seemed at ease with it but as she progressed with the turnings her mood changed. When the final card was turned her face was as white as a sheet. And that look caused the other two to stare in disbelief.
"Pol, what is it? What does it say?"
With a twitch in her eye she looked at the cards again. This cannot be. The signs had to be wrong. Picking up the cards and putting them away she glanced around the room and then leaned inward to speak.
"This does not look good. The cards say that it is not Bella that is in trouble but ....but you Crimson . You are the one that will fall before this all ends. Your death is what i see in the cards."
Crimson drew back with alarm. This cant be. She wasnt the one in jail. She wasnt the one accused of murder. This had to be a mistake. The cards were wrong.
"Also those hooded figures you told me about. They are not human. They are from the netherworld. Someone from beyond the grave has cast their sights on you. You have death following you. My word girl. What have you done?"
"Me? I have done nothing. Since i left the Black Rose I have done no wrong. I gave up my evil ways long ago. I have established myself quite well in the world. There has to be a mistake. Kat was right. You have no idea how to read those damn cards. I should of known you would be of no good to me. "
With that she thrust herself out of her chair and walked off towards the front door. Opening the door there was a clap of thunder so loud it was almost deafening. Lightning struck the tree in the courtyard and flames bounced around the yard from fallen debris. All Crimson could do was stand and stare.

The others ran to the doorway to see what was going on. The tiny fires danced around the courtyard. People from around the docks came running with buckets to put out the flames but their efforts were futile. The flames could not be put out. As soon as they had arrived the people began to back off. From around the corner of the healer's building across the lane three hooded figures appeared. The townfolk scattered in all directions. They stood near the smoldering tree and faced the entrance to the inn. The center figured raised a hand in gesture and pointed at Crimson. Polgara seeing this grabbed Crimson and threw her inside to the floor. She somehow knew what the figure was doing and had to get Crimson out of harms way. Crimson looked up from the floor and saw that Polgara herself was raising her hands in the air and muttering something that Crimson couldnt understand. Counterspell. Pol was trying to counter the spell the hooded one was casting. All at once there was a loud crackling sound and Polgara began to glow in a shimmery blue color. When the sound had ceased Pol collapsed on the floor. Kat ran to her, gathering her in her arms she knew that Pol was exhausted from her magic. Meyer ran into the room and helped Kat get Pol up and out of the doorway. When he peered out the door the figures were gone but in their place was three scorch marks on the ground.
Crimson scrambled from the floor and went to look outside herself. She couldnt believe that anyone would target her out in the open. She couldnt figure out either who or what she had angered so. She had to find out if Bella was well. Jaccob came running out of the back room to see what was going on. When he saw that Pol had succumbed to weariness from her magic he whirled and tossed and angry look at Crimson. They all looked at her as if she had brought the plague to the lands. She couldnt make any sense of what was going on.
Sitting in the a chair near the hearth, Pol began to gain a bit of strength back. Shaking her head slowly she looked up at Crimson.
"We have to try and get Bella out of that jail and get out of this town. It's too dangerous for us all to be here. Especially you Crimson. They fully intended to bring you down. That was definitely powerful magic they were using. Never have i had to use all my strenth to counter a spell before. It will take more than just us to rid the world of those things."
Crimson could only stare at Polgara. She had no words to use. Trembling where she stood she knew that Pol was right. But she had no idea of what to do now. The dangers were greater than she had ever anticipated

Meyer slipped out the back door of the inn and headed to the tavern. He knew he had to find out if anyone had responded to Crimson's messages for help. He also knew he would have to find some powerful help against those hooded figures. When he entered the tavern there were a few faces there he knew from the old days. So some have come to help afterall. Walking slowly to the back of the tavern he sat down at one of the tables and some of those he recognized made their way towards him. Sitting down and clanking their mugs on the table they looked around to see if anyone was watching.
One of the men slumped at the table and rested his elbows on top. "Hello Meyer. It has been a long time." Smiling he raised his mug to Meyer in salute.
Leaning forward he placed a finger to his nose and twiddle the others a bit. The hidden code of thieves. Meyer had a bit of a time interpreting the code, it had been a long time indeed. After the second turn Meyer understood a bit more. Finally the man got aggravated and spoke to him in low voice.
"Damn man. It has been a long time. You cant even remember the silent speech. I will just explain it to you so you can tell Lady Crimson."
Watching some people on the other side of the tavern the man began to repeat verbally his message.
"Tell the lady that there are a dozen ships moored in the distance of Skara Brae. They are out of sight from land as to not be detected. With more than fifty crewman on board each ship there is no way the guards could overtake them. They wait for the lady's word."
With this news Meyer raised from the bench and headed back to the inn.

Entering through the back of the inn Meyer went to the parlor to check on his patron friends. Sitting in one chair Jaccob was sleeping. The low sounds of his breathing let Meyer know he was alright. At the table Polgara sat with her cards tossing them them from one side and the other. Disgust filled her face. Standing by a nearby window Kat looked out through the curtains ever with a watchful eye. Crimson was no where to be seen. Quietly he went to her room and opened the door. There is repose she slept. Peacefully. It had been three days and this was the first full rest she had taken. Atop the table by the bed there was a small green bottle. He reached for it and took it to his nose. The smell was familiar but there was a hint of something else to it. Part poison, part something else. Returning to the parlor he went to Polgara and handed her the bottle.
Looking up at Meyer she took the bottle from his hand. With a slow grin she patted his hand. "No worries dear friend. It's not poison. I had Jaccob mix a sleeping draught for Crimson. It was necessary for her to get some rest and this was the only way. She will be fine rest assured. With all the happenings the last few days she was exhausting herself. She needed this rest."
Taking a deep breath in relief he sat at the table with Pol. Fiddling with a card from the table he then told Pol of his news from the tavern. Katarina heard him and she came and sat beside him. Once he was finished they sat in silence. All working their minds on what to do next.
Behind them they could hear Jaccob mumbling in his sleep. At first they paid no attention to him for they were certain he was only dreaming. But after a few turse comments he made they realized he wasnt dreaming he was talking to someone and having quite a conversation. This old man has always been a puzzle to them. He had many a strange way about him. He had always remained a bit of a mystery to them all. They knew nothing of his past when he joined them on the Black Rose but they had always depended on him. He was always at the ready for them one way or another. They just attributed his talents to the fact that he was old and very worldly. Never suspecting anything else of him.
Soon Jaccob was laughing and who ever he was speaking to he told them that they were listening. The old fool. He was asleep but still aware that the girls and Meyer were next to him. He said his goodbyes to his dream person and then began to snore again. At this Pol, Kat, and Meyer all looked at each other like the old man had finally cracked. It must be an affliction that came with old age. Standing they all went back to what they were doing by the table.
"Katarina dear. You will need to try and get to the jail and tell Bella what is going on. That the ships have come and we will soon have her out of there. But do not and i repeat do not tell her about what happened today. That will only resolve her to try and fight harder than she needs to. Tell her to be wary and keep an ear open to her surroundings."
With that Katarina went to the kitchen and out the back door. Meyer looked at Polgara strangely. "What should I do my lady? I am at your and Lady Crimson's service as always. I will not fail you."
"You my good man have done plenty. Keep an watchful eye on Crimson for now. That is all i expect of you. When all hell breaks loose here you will know what to do as you always have known."
Meyer stood and nodded his head. Walking over to Jaccob he draped a shawl over the old man and went to the kitchen to prepare the next meal.
Pol gathered her cards once more and shuffled them. With a light blow from her lips over the cards she then started dealing them out on the table. For the most part the same cards appeared but then this time there were a couple new ones that appeared. The White Knight and the Black Ship appeared. With a smile on her face she sat back in her chair. This was indeed good to see. There was hope for their futures now.

Creeping through the brush near the town hall Katarina noticed there were no guards around the perimeter. This was good. When she reached the edge of the building she could see that only one guard stood outfront . Slipping back into the afternoon shadows of the southern side of the building she reached the window of the room in which Bella was being held. There Bella sat on the cot wringing her hands and fidgeting about. She was indeed nervous.
"Psst....Psst. Bella come to the window."
Looking around the room Bella went to the door first and put an ear to the door. No sounds from outside. Stepping as quiet as she could with chains on her feet she went to the window. The sight of Katarina's angelic face made her feel a bit better. She reached through the window and dragged the girl inside. Falling to the floor together they both held their breath waiting for a guard to come. After a moment the relaxed. No one heard them.
"Katarina, are you insane coming here. Those guards will take you as well if you arent careful."
"Oh calm down cousin. Unfortunately I have been taught to sneak around like a thief in the night so well that i could probably walk through that door and no one see me." With that comment Bella laughed under her breath so she couldnt be heard.
"I have brought you a bit of food to eat and some news as well. Polgara has shown up in town along with Jaccob. We have also recieved news that several ships are moored in the distance near Skara.
With the forces we have on the seas it should be no task at all to lay seige to the guards and get you out of here."
Settling back on the floor and taking a deep breath Bella felt at ease for the first time. She knew that Crimson would do something to try and free her. Yes with their friends out on the ships coming into town it should be no hard deed to free her.
"Please Kat. Tell the girls that i am well and i will be waiting for a sign of the attack. Have there been any decisions made of when this will take place. I heard the guards earlier talking about moving me to Britain soon. If this seige isnt soon i fear we may have to take this battle out on the public roads. And you know once we cross the harbor to the main land it will be very difficult. "
"They havent decided as of yet. Pol had to put Crimson to bed with a sleeping draught. The toll of the last few days has weighed on her a great deal. She was beginning to show signs of fatigue and Pol thought it best for her to rest. You know how Crimson is. She will keep going until the end. She never knows her limits."
Looking sorrowful Bella nodded her head. This she did know and that made her feel terrible inside. She never wanted to cause trouble for Crimson. All these years of trying to put her past behind her and now she was having to deal with it all again. The guilt seemed to wan on Bella more and more every passing hour.
"Well, i guess i will just have to wait and bide my time until the plan is put into action. But please give me some warning if possible. Now little one you need to get out of here before the guards come by . They check on me very often as of late." With that she gave Kat a kiss on the cheek and tossed her out the window. Looking out the window she saw Katarina stand and rub herself from the fall. A quick glance back Kat saw the shimmer of a smile on Bella's face and then she was gone.

Once again slipping through the brush towards the inn Katarina instead made her way to Superior Ships. She had to get to the ship shop and get a spyglass. There was a great need to find out how many and what kind of ships were out there. No one seemed to be around the shop so she entered quietly and walked about. In the back room she could hear someone pounding on wood. Probably the shipwright working as usual. But there didnt seem to be anyone else about. On the table near the door were several spyglasses. Looking out the corner of her eye from side to side she quickly took one of the items from the table, dashed it under her cloak and left the building.
Under her breath she muttered, "Oh great. Not only have i been sneaking around like a thief now i am taking things as well. Humm i may have to change my occupation."
Pulling her hood over her head she went to the point out behind the shop and held the glass to her eye. She scanned the area she could see and off in the very distance she saw at least three ships to the south and three more off to the west. Without going to the other side of town she had no idea how many lay in wait there. With the sight of those ships though she felt a shiver of excitement go down her spine. Soon. She remembered what Bella said. Soon it had to happen.
She had to get back and tell Pol what Bella had said and they had to begin making the final plans. When she turned around to leave the shoreline she straight into a tall dark hooded figure. The first sight of the black hood startled her and her first thought was that of the figures they had encountered outside the inn. Trying to back away and around this figure she started to stumble. A strong hand reached out and caught her before she fell. When she looked up at the hand she trailed her sight to the hood which was no longer there. Staring into the deepest blue eyes she realized this was no wraith or demon trying to take her. She was looking deeply into the ocean blue eyes of none other than Bloody Jack, the pirate.

Standing and putting her self right Kat looked again at the man. This is not right. Why would Jack be here. This could prove dangerous for all if he was spotted. Quickly she grabbed the collar of his cloak and pulled him into the bushes.
"Well now little Katarina. I didnt know you were so taken we dear ole Jack."
"Shut up you fool. You want to be spotted. What the hell are you doing here anyways. You are supposed to wait for a signal."
Deep within his chest he let out a low chuckle. Leaning closer towards Kat he whispered in her ear. "I am the signal my dear. The others are waiting in shore boats for me to send out my call."
Standing hunched over behind the bush he pulled Kat up from her knees.
"Lets get to the inn so I can speak to Crimson. I must tell her of my plans to free Bella. And it cant wait much longer."
The two of them hid within the shadows and entered through an open window at the back of the inn. When they walked into the parlor Pol, Jaccob and Meyer jumped in suprise. The look Pol gave Jack was that of disgust. Jaccob and Meyer grinned from ear to ear. They knew things were about to get very exciting and soon.
"Well....Look what Kat dragged in and I dont mean that in gest."
"Oh Polgara. Always the charmer arent you." A bright grin took his face as he approached and bowed graciously.
"Stand up you fool and stop trying to impress me. I know your suave ways all too well. Remember it was I who introduced you to my family in the first place. And what a mistake that has proven to be."
Throwing back his head with a boistrous laugh he once again bowed to Pol only this time he removed his hat and waved it to his side.
"Well...I can see you havent changed abit. But honestly I have more important things to do right now Pol than to bicker with you."
With that comment they all went to the table and sat. As if on que Meyer was there setting bottles of ale and glasses about. He left in a flash and returned with a tray of meat, cheese and bread. Almost magically the table was filled with enough food for an army and almost as much spirits to drink.
"Thank you Meyer. You never forget do you." Meyer stood back with a satisfied smile on his face. He knew what the Captain liked.
Taking a deep swallow of ale Jack cleared his throat. "Where is Crimson? I have important details to work out with her and it cannot wait."
"She is sleeping and you will not disturb her for now. You can discuss your plans with us and we can fill her in later. She's been through quite a bit the last few days. You , yourself know how determined she can get and its taking its toll."
Polgara looked deep into Jack's eyes. She didnt see the same things the others did. She only saw a man with the utmost disrespect for people and a man that was only out for as much as he could get for himself. Leaning into the table she continued to stare into his eyes.
"Pol, must you do that? You know that makes me nervous. I feel like you are looking right through me as if i werent here and it is very disturbing."
Slowly she leaned back into her chair and reached for a glass of ale. Oh how she hated the stuff but she drank anyways. Stuffing her face with some meat and cheese Katarina chewed quickly and drank just as fast of the ale. After a struggled swallow she cleared her throat to speak.
"Both of you shut up please. I talked to Bella and she told me they intend to move her very soon. She is very nervous about this as they plan to move her to Britain itself. You know there is no court in that city that will give her a fair trial. We must move quickly for her sake."
Pol and Jack looked at Kat and then back to each other. Both nodded in agreement. They knew they would have to move as quickly as possible.
"That my dear girl is why I have come here. I would never risk my life in this fashion for just anyone. Bella means more to me than any of you will ever know and for this I have brought the forces that Crimson had sent for. Meeting many of them on the seas we have all poised ourselves in position to take over the town hall and remove Bella from their possesion."
Pol looked at Jack like he had lost his mind but nodded in agreement. She knew that he would be able to handle those forces and get Bella out. But she also knew that Jack had to be careful to not cross with Crimson. This had to be of her choice and doing as well as his.
"Jack you are forgettting one important factor here. ....Crimson. If you try to take charge of this endeavor she will strike you down where you stand. She wont tolerate mutiny now no more than she would when she ran the Black Rose."
Jack sat back and contimplated Pol's words. He was very well aware of Crimson's wrath and had no intention of stepping out of bounds with her. Taking another drink he leaned the chair back and rocked it to and fro.
"Well then my friends I think it's time we wake the sleeping rose and tell her of our news."
The group looked around the table at each other for a moment and then all began to chuckle loudly.

Hearing the laughter coming from the parlor caused Crimson to waken. Raising on her elbows she tried to blink the sleep from her yere. Looking at the window she could see the sun was just about to set. The yellow and orange hues seemed to blanket the skies.
Throwing back the thin blanket she swung her legs over the edge of the bed. Sitting slowly there was a slight lightness to her head. "Damn you Polgara", she cursed. She could hear the light voices outside the door. There was a new voice in the room she couldnt quite place. Grabbing the post of the bed she stretched abit and tried to work off the the drugged feeling she had. Her mind began to fume thinking how stupid she was to not pay attention to Polgara more. It was just like her cunning cousin to slip a sleeping agent into her cider. Crimson rarely touched stronger spirits as she always tried to keep her mind clear and it was obvious Pol had drugged her. The wave of dizziness passed as she reached for the doorknob and went out to assemble her group fo what they had to do.
As she entered the parlor she noticed the new member who had joined her band of friends. Flaming red hair hung to his shoulders. Short red growth upon his chin. Arrogant chiseled jawline and that ridiculous captain's hat hanging from the knewl of the chair. It couldnt be him. As she came closer Jack raised his eyes to meet hers. When their sights connected a broad grin crossed his face. Raising his arms and linking his fingers to cup the back of his head he stretched and leaned back in the chair and began a slow rocking motion.
"Ah. Seems we dont need to bother waking the lady after all. I do hope you had a well deserved rest as we have plenty to do."
Standing frozen in place she could only stare at Jack. Looking into that smircking peacock's face did more than waken Crimson from a foggy sleep. She felt her blood begin to boil.
"You crazy fool. What the hell are you doing here? Do you have some sort of death wish or something? What a pompous idiot you have become. If you are caught this whole thing will be for naught."
"Oh Crimson love do calm down. No one knows i am here but who is present. Oh and the crew of miscriants you have assembled who are waiting off shore."
Crimson didnt know what to say after that. The others seemed to grow quiet. Just like that hush before the storm. The friction which now filled the room caused one to wonder if the walls would burst into flames. Seeing Jack sitting there angered Crimson. Here this rogue sat safe and reasonably sound while her sister sat in a jail waiting her death.
Jaccob rose from his chair and went to Crimson's side. Leading her to the table he pulled the chair out for her so she could sit. The gentleman pirate he would forever be. Immediately Meyer was there at her side with a fresh tray of hot food and a pot of her favorite tea. The man was amazing. Always at the ready without a word said. Glancing up at the two men Crimson simply smiled and nodded her thanks to them. Ever faithful, ever true. The oldest remaining members of her crew. They left the Black Rose the same time she did. That must of been when Jack and Bella helped Meyer with the inn. At that moment Crimson realized the common thread between her and all that was present that day. Devotion and loyalty. Even from Jack.

While Crimson sipped her tea Kat explained to her the news that Bella had sendt. Jack also stated that he and the others out on the sea were ready to come into the city when she was. Polgara said nothing. She only stared at Crimson trying to determine her reaction to the news. Jack stood up quickly turning over his chair as he did and began pacing the floor. Pol couldnt tell if he was nervous, anxious or both.
"Please Jack, do sit down. Wearing a groove in the floorboards will not help us in our task." Snapping his head around in Pol's direction he made a snorting sound in disgust.
"And sitting here sipping tea and cordials isnt going to help either, Pol. We need to make ready and be prepared."
Kat watched Crimson all this time and saw a slow smile form on her face. Before Pol could reply Crimson cleared her throat to get their attention.
"if you two would hush for a moment I might be able to think."
The two stopped and looked her way. It was the fiest thing she had said since she sat down and the calmness in her voice was puzzling to them. Setting down her cup she rested her hands on the table. Then at once with a hard slap to the surface she stood.
"Its time to get ready. Call everyone to the parlor and we will set our plan in motion."
With a yelp of enthusiasm Jack jumped and went looking for Jaccob and Meyer. Kat and Pol headed towards one of the bedrooms. Crimson went back to her room as well.
Changing into her old clothes brought back vivid memories of her seafaring days. Trousers, fancy shirt, leather thigh boots. Her sash still fit well too. Amazing after ten years she felt quite comfortable in these clothes. Shaking her head she had to remind herself that she gave up this way of life for a reason. She was no longer that person and after this was over she would return home.
With crickets chirping outside her window she knew it was well into the eveing. Everyone had gathered once again in the parlor. When Crimson entered the area all turned and looked at her. With approving smiles from everyone she walked to the table and placed a map of Skara Brae on top. Opening the map she took pen to hand and began marking spots all over surrounding the town hall. This is where Jack had said the men were waiting. The island was indeed surrounded. If the group assembled outside along the banks was a large as Jack said it was there should be very little trouble taking over the guards and getting Bella out of town. As they began to discuss the plan there was a soft knock at the front door. Meyer slowly opened it and let a small wisp of a girl enter. Leaning against the wall next to the door the girl tried to catch her breath. Looking around she noticed Jack poised by the table and she went to him. Throwing her arms about his waste with a hug she then quickly stood back and erect like a soldier.
"Captain. The men are at the ready. They await the signal when ever you and the ladies are ready to begin. Upon the hour of eleven I will light the town beacon which will be their sign to attack. The orders you have sent out to them will be followed to the letter ,sir. " She smiled slightly at Jack and then continued. "Horses are being held across the bay at the woodcutters cottage. They are ready for your escape sir. My brother Benjamin is there as we speak."
Lowering his head he glanced at Crimson from the corner of his eye. When he saw the smile emerge on her face he knew he had done well and she approved of his plans. Standing tall he patted the little girl on the head and bent to her height. With a light flick of his finger on her nose he smiled at her.
"Well done, Bernadette. Now little one you remember. Once the light has been set you are to run. Run as fast as you can and take cover. Stay hidden until things settle down and then you may join your brother . Once you two are together you go to the meeting place and board the ship. Then you will be safe."
When Jack straightened the girl smiled and curtsied. Nodding to him she understood she went to the door. "Be safe Captain. And good luck." With that she slipped out the door into the dark.
Once the door closed all looked at Jack. He just shrugged his shoulders and went back to looking at the map like there was no change in their plans. This was a side of Jack none had seen before. Shaking her head Crimson turned to Meyer and Jaccob.
"You two dear souls are to make ready and leave the city immediately. I dont want you here when this starts. Head to the coastline of Britany Bay. Aletta waits for you there. Once we are in safe keeping I will send word to you. Is that understood?"
The two men looked at Crimson with disappointment. They couldnt understand why she was sending them away.
"My lady. I cannot leave my inn. I will stay and protect what is mine. They will give me no trouble. And Jaccob can slip back to his cottage and none will be the wiser."
"NO! Meyer my dear friend. You will be the first they come to when this is over. There are some around that know your and Jaccob's past. Most certain there are spies about as well. Dont's forget there is more out there than the city guards to worry over. You two need to be safe from Skara Brae as much as us. I want you to go to Aletta and wait for word from me. Please do not argue with me. My mind is busy already without another obstacle. Please do as I say."
With much regret the two went about gathering their meager belongings. They didnt need much. Aletta would provide anything they needed. As they came back into the parlor Jaccob came face to face with Jack. With a crooked finger he poked Jack in the chest.
"You! You devil in disguise. Best you take care of my girls. See no harm comes to them during this fight. If i be finding out you let one of them get hurt there wont be a place anywhere you can hide from me. Remember this. I may be old but I know many."
Meyer nodded in agreement to Jaccob's claim. And with that Jack placed a hand on each man's shoulder. "Have no fear, friends. If its the last thing I do , and it very well may be I will protect them with all that I have and all that I am."
With a grunt Jaccob looked over his shoulder to the girls. Lowering his head he and Meyer slipped out the door and out of sight.
Wiping a tear from her eye Polgara reached out and touch Crimson's arm.
"Are we ready to go , cousin?"
"Aye. We are ready!"

As the two older men reached the docks Meyer turned and looked back to the inn. One by one the lights went out inside. Taking the small ferry across the bay was the hardest thing he had done in quite a while. Jaccob patted him on the shoulder and nodded towards the open sea. There in the distance they could see spots of light. In all the directions they could see there were lights bobbing along the waterline. The ships had moved inland a bit closer. Once on the other side they climbed out of the small boat and crossed the docks. Walking towards the road Jaccob pulled Meyer close to him.
"We must get to Luna. I have great need to get there. We must make our way to the Brit gate and cross over to Malas."
Meyer looked at Jaccob like he had lost his mind. This old fool had no idea what he was asking. Never had Meyer gone to Malas. There was no way he could take such a trip. And if Crimson found out she would have their heads.
"Come Meyer. Dont be frightened. I have friends in Malas. Nothing will happen to you there. Especially Luna. The City of the Paladins is great and welcoming. We must get there quickly. Come we must make haste. We will stop and see Aletta before we cross over to Malas. But we must hurry."
Taking the road to the right they headed towards his cottage. They could get horses there and make their way to the Brit coast. If they hurried they could reach the coast by day break.

Late morning sun gleaming off the last of the dew in the trees made for a very tranquil morning indeed. Aletta decided to drag her spinning wheel out to the balcony before starting her spinning. After constructing the rail around the roof of the stables she had made a bit of a garden spot there. Hiring someone to build the stone oven was the best thing she had done in years. And with the sturdy oak logs underneath there was no fear of the roof caving in. Birds chirping in the tops of the trees right next to her made her feel so at ease.
Off in the distance she could hear the nicker of horses as they approached. Peering through the fence she could see two riders coming. Surely they werent coming there. The neighbors must be expecting guests for she certainly wasnt. But the riders were coming straight towards her. Odd she thought. Everyone she knew was either in Skara Brae or heading that way. She had recieved orders to stay there and not come to help. What help would a tailor be in this fight.
Putting down her wool she stood and headed down to the first floor of the house. She would meet these riders at the door. But once she went through the door and saw who it was she screeched with joy. Quickly she ran and opened the stable gate and helped lead the weary horses inside. Jaccob and Meyer both looked worn to the nub. It was obvious they had rode all night long.
"Come the two of you . Come in and take your rest. I will tend the horse quickly and then come in and tend to you." With a smile from them both they went through the door and collapsed in the soft chairs inside. Loooking around them they could see this was indeed a safe place to be.
As fast as she could Aletta unsaddled the horses and led them to the water troughs. Pulling out the feed sacks she bridled one then the other to the horses so they could feed. The fresh breeze from the ocean glided gently over the sweating horses. They shivered lightly from the wind but continued to eat and let themselves be made over. Once she was certain they were cared for Aletta went into the house to care for her guests.
Walking from one man to the other she took great pains to see that both were alright. Tired and hungry was all she could see. Letting them rest and regain some strength she went upstairs to get them some food and drink.
Within a few minutes she returned and in tow she carried a tray laden with food stuffs and drink. Setting it on the table between the two men she then came round and sat on the floor infront of them and watched as they ate.
"When you have had your fill you must tell me whats going on. I have been going insane here alone and not knowing. With you two here I can only assume that things have been taken into hand and are progressing well."
They both nodded and continued to eat and drink. With his last gulp, Jaccob wiped his mouth with his sleeve and sunk back into the soft cushions of the chair.
"Aye my lassie. Things are going for sure. Of what direction we dont know. Your cousin sent us on our way before anything began. So the outcome we are not certain. She bade us to come here and stay til she sends word to us."
"Ah. Twas a good deed she has given you. You shall be safe here. No one is aware of who we are here and where we came from. You shall be at home here as long as she sees fit."
"No my dear. I myself have a task that must be completed. Crimson knows not of this. The dangers that they face in Skara Brae are minor compared to that which awaits them. I must get to Luna and quickly. Meyer may stay here if he wishes but I cannot."
"Luna. Why in the world would you need to go to Luna? The stone city is no place for you Jaccob."
"You are wrong my child. Luna is the one place I need to be. There is one that resides there that can help in the task that follows."
Looking with concern to Meyer he began to tell Aletta about the hooded figures that attacked Crimson at the inn. He told of how he knew a man in Luna that would be able to help dispatch these evil creatures. As he went on the feeling came over Aletta that this was not going to be the end of trouble with her family. It was actually only beginning

Going to the trunks stacked in the corner Aletta pulled out some clothing for Meyer to change into. They had to wear fairly regal clothing if they were to go to Luna without being too suspicious looking. And from the looks of those two old men they would stand out for certain. Inside the bottom trunk she pulled out a long yellow gold robe, and some other items for Jaccob. Handing him the clothing she smiled and stood there staring at the cloth. After a moment she excused herself and went to change her own tattered dress. When she returned she gasped in suprise when she saw Jaccob standing there. Straight and noble looking holding onto a long gnarled staff he looked so much like her father. Jaccob turned and his long beard and hair had been smoothed. With a glint in his eye he could of passed for Aletta's father any day. She turned and went to her bedroom quickly.
Kneeling down she reached under her bed and pulled out a long blanket wrapped object. Carrying it in her arms like a fragile child she went back down stairs. Slowly she approached Jaccob and extended her arms to him. Taking the object from her he unwrapped the bundle. What he saw suprised him totally.
There in his hands was the most eloquently carved staff. The head bore a small carving of a dragon. Along the shaft runic markings were carved. And there just under the dragon head was the unmistakable sign of Aletta's family crest. A large carved and painted rose embedded into the staff. It looked so real. Cradling the staff to him he saw that a small tear rolled down Aletta's face.
"I thought this was lost long ago. Never did i believe it would still be in the keeping of the family."
His comment puzzled Aletta greatly. How would he know about the staff? No one knew she had it for she kept it hidden even from the other girls. The man seemed to know exactly what it was and who it belonged to. Family. He said family. What did that mean?
"My brother, your father held this with him always. When he died I thought the staff was lost. We searched high and low for it. Where did you find it dear Aletta?"
Still abit shocked by this revelation Aletta came closer to Jaccob. She could see the resemblence even more now. Jaccob was her uncle. Thoughts filled her head. The only brother her father had was Crimson and Bella's father. Her eyes grew bigger when she realized that Jaccob was their father and they didnt know it. It all began to come into place. When her father died Jaccob suddenly appeared and stayed with the girls always. She never knew either. She had not seen her uncle since she was a very small child. Living the way they did she never questioned the devotion and affection he always paid them. Now it all made sense.
"I went to where father had died. Under the cover of leaves and grass i found the staff. I knew it held great power and that if in the wrong hands it could be very dangerous. ..So i hid it. The others dont even know i have it. I intentionally kept it from them. They had no idea what power it holds."
Shaking his head and laughing loudly she put his arm around her shoulder while still holding the staff closely. Giving her a great squeeze she could feel the power that the old man still had. He may look like an old man but he was as strong as ever. Playing the part of an old galley dog fit him well. Hiding his strength was done very well. This old man would be a great advisary.
The two of them went down to the parlor where Meyer had been waiting. He looked at the two of them in suprise. He had known Jaccob for a long time but he now saw him in a different light. This was no feeble man standing before him now. This was a vibrant man with much strength and his fears began to slip away bit by bit. He no longer felt the old man insane. Shaking his head he laughed at how foolish he must of sounded when Jaccob mentioned going to Luna. This trip indeed would bode well.
"My lady. I took the opportunity to ready the horses. We are short one horse but I would be honored if you would ride with me. I think my horse will carry us both nicely."
"Thank you Meyer and stop with all the fancy talk. I am still the same puny girl you used to chase off the mast lines when i was younger. Although now I know a bit more of my heritage I am still the same."
Smiling greatly Meyer went to the door and opened it holding it for the others to go outside. When they went to the stable the horses were indeed ready. Leading them out to the front of the house they mounted up and headed west to the moongate. It was a short ride from the coast and as they grew closer Aletta could feel the tension mount in Meyer's shoulders. Gently she patted him on the back trying to reassure him things would be ok.
As they reached the gate there were several riders standing about. One that looked vaguely familiar to Jaccob. When the dark cloaked woman turned on her horse her firey red locks flew freely from her hood. When she saw them come closer a broad smile crossed her face.
"By the gods I dont believe it. Jaccob. Meyer. And Aletta too. But how ...how did you get out of Skara. The gates are so heavily guarded."
Drawing to a halt Jaccob dismounted and went to the lady. Wrapping his arms about her he laughed. Standing back he surveyed the woman from all angles and hugged her once again.
"My, my. Scarlett you are a sight for sore eyes. It has been a long time."
"Yes it has..and if things dont go well this eve it will be even longer for some of us."
"What? Dont tell me you are heading to Skara Brae. Oh indeed this would be a fight worth watching. But I got my orders from Crimson herself to leave and come here to the coast. She sent us to Aletta and bade us to stay here until she sent for us."
"Well old man. If memory serves me correctly the coast it in the opposite directions." Laughing she pointed to the way they had come from.
"Your memory is fine sweetling. But I have pressing business in Luna. I dont have time to explain now. Only this. The trouble you head for tonight is only the beginning. There is a plot about us that must be stopped. This with Bella is only a ruse i am afraid. And none of you girls are safe. There is more to this than the folly in Skara Brae."
Looking into Jaccob's eyes she knew he was serious. This man was never known for dallying with words and such. So she took his warnings to heart.
"Be wary and careful Scarlett. If the tide of battle changes to the worst take who you can and flee quickly. Remember there is something far worse out there. Take heed my words girl. It will save your life one day."
With an impish grin Scarlett hugged the old man and quickly mounted her steed. Her followers paced about the area of the gate inpatiently. With a small salute she yelled out for the others to follow her and inside the gate they rode. The crackling sounds of the gate shook Meyer to the core of his being. When he opened his eyes again they were all gone. The gate stood shimmering like a ghost.
"Come you two....we must be off through the gate."
With that he threw himself up on the horse and pulled the horse's head towards the gate. Having not been through a moongate in a long time he trotted around it nervously.
"Remember Meyer. Concentrate on where you are going when you enter. You too Aletta. I dont need to be gating around lookin for the two of you if you get lost."
"I know Uncle. I am not as rusty at gate jumping as you think. Why do you think i moved so close to this one. I use it all the time." Laughing she reached around Meyer and grabbed the reins. Kicking the horse in the sides she steered the horse right into the gate. Meyer slammed his eyes closed and held his breath.
"Luna. Luna. Luna." He repeated this over and over hoping this whippet of a girl really knew what she was doing. With a loud laugh Jaccob too kicked his horse into stride and entered the gate behind them.

Hunching behind the woodpile Crimson could see the guards gathering infront of the townhall. Thinking to herself they must be getting ready to move Bella. There was no time to waste...It would be daylight soon and there was no way to turn back now. She tried counting how many there were but she kept losing track of them when they moved. Damn she was out of practice at this stuff.
Suddenly she felt something touch her shoulder. Frightened chills ran up her spine as she turned her head slowly. There in the moonlight a whimsical face appeared. Katarina.
"Damn you Kat. You trying to give me a heart seizure or what?"
With a faint giggle she snuggled closer to Crimson behind the stacked wood.
"Sorry. I had to sneak up here. There are guards all around the city. They are waiting for something to happen. Last i counted there were at least fifty guards throughout. And....there are three Royal Guard ships on the north east side of the docks. They are moored up the coast a bit."
A groan came from deep in her chest. Crimson was getting very impatient. And this news wasnt making her feel any better. Kneeling there in the cold damp night she had to think of what to do. They had to get into the town hall quickly once things broke loose.
"You sound like a sick bear when you make that sound Crimson."
With that comment she jumped a bit. Turning her head she saw Jack squatting next to her.
"Damn you Jack. If one more person sneaks up on me I will go insane. I am gonna strike out at the next sneaky voice i hear from behind me. "
Jack and Kat both giggled a bit under there breath. They truly enjoyed driving her crazy.
"Just thought i would let you know that the Royal ships are taken care of. One of your groups out there successfully boarded all three ships and have taken control of them. Wasnt too hard. There were only about ten men on each ship. They got em in the holds for now. Once the fighting starts they intend to sail them out into the harbor and break the rudders so they sail off into the horizon." Laughing lightly he waved his hand to the side. "Off into the sunrise and not a thing they can do til they hit land. Seems fitting dont you think."
Crimson rolled her eyes at his dramatics. But a grin came to her and she couldnt help but chuckle a bit herself.
"Did you happen to be able to count any of the guards while you were sneakin about Jack?"
"Aye. There are about 10 guards around the bank. A dozen or so at the moongate and then of course there are about 20 or so at the docks. Then those there by the townhall. I couldnt get anywhere else."
"Ah the ones i counted were near the stables and some scattered in the edge of the woods. Jack, you and Crimson gonna go in from here?"
"Yes. I intend to get into that building one way or another. There has to be guards inside as well. You stay near the docks so you can get away as quick as possible, Kat."
"Aye aye, captain. There should be plenty for me to take care of there for certain."
With a sturdy look towards Kat Crimson ground her teeth.
"No heroics, cousin. And where the hell is Polgara. I havent seen her since we left the inn?"
Jack sniffed the air a bit and leaned closer to Crimson. "She headed towards the docks when we left. I think she was planning something but who knows what. That lady actually scares the pants off me sometimes. She is one creepy lady. Does she have to always be so mysterious?"
Both girls gave a wink to each other and giggled quietly.
"Why, Jack! I didnt think you were afraid of anyone. And to be afraid of Polgara that is funny. She pretends to be mysterious as you put it. Its part of her disguise. She is about as theatrical as you most times."
"Ha! She just gives me the creeps thats all. ALways staring at me like she can see through me."
"She cant see through you she just can see past you thats all."
With that comment Jack groaned himself. Kat and Crimson smiled at each other and continued to look out at the guards. Jack looked up at the stars and saw that it was well past midnight. Something had gone wrong. Bernadette was to light the signal at eleven. Damn he thought to himself. She must have gotten caught.
No sooner than he thought this the skies near the town hall lit up with fire. The beacon had been lit. Through the trees and bushes he could hear movement. The men from the boats had started their approach. It was time to move in.

From the shadows Crimson could see the men moving forward. Looking over her shoulder she could see the outline of Katarina as she moved back towards the docks. All at once the yells and sounds of metal against metal could be heard. Grabbing Jack by the arm they made their move towards the townhall. All hell was breaking lose and they had no time to lose. Reaching the window of the room where Bella was being held they could see that a guard was inside with Bella and had her pinned against the wall near the door.
Looking over the guards shoulder Bella could see Crimson peering into the window. With his knife at her throat it was impossible for Bella to make a move at all. Crimson nodded to Bella and with that she tried to lean slightly away from the guard. At once the thrump of a bow string could be heard and Bella could feel the impact of the arrow as it entered the guards back. As he slid to the floor at her feet the edge of the knife knicked her neck but it was nothing serious. When the guard lay dead on the floor Crimson climbed in through the window and ran to Bella. A shadow appeared in the window behind her and Bella held her breath and knelt to retrieve the guards knife. When she stood and made to throw the knife in the shadows direction she dropped the weapon when she saw the bright grin on Jack's face.
"Now there dear...I dont think you be wanting to kill Jack right this minute. After all I be here to rescue you. Your sister just came along for the fun of it all."
With that Bella ran and threw her arms about Jack's neck and kissed him roughly on the lips. Crimson turned her head away and went to the door to listen for the guards outside. It seemed all too quiet.
"Let's get out of here. There being about 10 guards out that door I dont want to be facing them just yet." She turned back to Crimson with her arm linked with Jack's. Still listening at the door Crimson reached behind her not looking and handed Bella a sack.
"Here. Put these things on. And your sword is inside too. You might be needing it soon." With that Crimson looked over her shoulder to Bella and smiled.
"Bel. This isnt gonna be easy getting out of here. We cant go out the window or we'll be seen. Its out the door or nothing. Do or die time, sister. Do or die."
Both Bella and Jack grinned brightly to hear such words come from Crimson. The years away from the Black Rose had not taken the fighting spirit out of her after all.
Once Bella was dressed she came behind Crimson. Jack stood next to the door as well. From the sounds outside there was a mighty fight going. The screams of townfolk and that of men dying was overwhelming. It seemed to charge the feelings in the girls and Jack. Itching to get into the action Jack reached for the door knob. Turning the knob slowly he looked one last time at them.
"Do or Die, ladies. Do or die."
All three had their cutlass at the ready. Holding them high and ready to attack as soon as the door flew open. Throwing the door open they ran out into the open hallway of the townhall. What they saw was amazing to say the least.
Standing in the middle of the hall was a woman clad in the darkest blue. Her cape flowing massively about her. The raven black locks of her hair seemed to float in the air sending charges of electricity throughout the area. At her feet and around the room the guards lay motionless. As she lowered her arms the calm began to return to the room and the wind that surrounded her subsided.
Crimson stood ready for battle, frozen in place at the sight before her. Bella and Jack stood next to her cutlass in the air and mouthes wide open in suprise.
They were all shocked at the sight before them. They had no idea such power could be used like this. Lowering her arms to her side the woman looked at the trio and smiled. Then she collapsed to the floor along with her victims.
Crimson ran to her side and cradled her head in her lap. She had no idea.
"Polgara..you fool. Are you alright?"
With a light flutter of her eyelids she rolled her head from side to side. As Crimson tended her cousin Bella and Jack went to the door at the front of the hall. They could hear running and scuffling outside. Jack opened the door slightly and peered outside to survey the area. There were bodies everywhere but he couldnt tell from the darkness who was who. The town beacon was dying down leaving very little light to see clearly. The street lamps were so low it gave off very little to see by. Coming towards the townhall was a band of men on horseback. Shutting the door he and Bella tried to barricade it so no one could enter.

Standing with their backs against the door they tried to catch their breath. Crimson looked up at them with confusion in her eyes. They shook their heads to her letting her know that there was no way out except the way they came in. Polgara began to stir and she slowly sat up.
"I..I'm alright. Just need to let myself regain some composure. That spell took alot out of me, otherwise I am fine." Taking a deep breath Crimson looked a bit relieved. This was indeed going to be tricky trying to get out of the hall. And with Polgara weak it would make it harder.
"Crimson. My bag. Get it for me please." Reaching for the blue bag on the floor she pulled over to Pol. Once again she looked at Bella and Jack to see what they were doing. Jack had crawled over to one of the front windows and peaked through the arrow slot. The riders had dismounted and there what seemed to be standing guard. A few guards came towards them but were quickly dispatched. Looking back at the girls he shook his head and then continued to watch outside.
Pol pulled a bottle out of her bag and drank it quickly. Within moments she seemed to be back to normal. Standing up and brushing herself off she looked about the room at the damage she had done. With a shrug of her shoulders she bent to gather up her bag. Pulling out her kryss she slid it into the sheath at her side and tied the bag to her belt. She was preparing for battle once again.
"Those riders have posted themselves outside the door. They seem to be on our side. But they aint making no move to come inside." Jack twisted his head on his shoulders making an awful cracking sound. Holding his cutlass in his hand he stood ready. Bella was quickly at his side.
Crimson and Polgara stood side by side waiting for what was to come through the door. Looking out the hole again Jack could see two more riders joined the group. The last one to dismount looked about the grounds at the carnage before them. Then coming to the door the dark cloaked one pounded ferociously on the door.

The pounding continued on the door. For a moment they thought it would cave in but it held. Then a voice from the past shouted out to them. This voice made Bella jump. With that she began tearing at the chairs and tables blocking the door. Jack began helping her as she seemed frantic to get to the door. Once the last was removed she threw the door open. With the faint lamppost light shadowing the figure it began to enter the hall. Two others followed close behind. As they moved in Bella and Jack back away to where Crimson and Polgara stood. When the last one entered and closed the door he stood infront blocking it. Pulling the hood down and shaking its head about , long amber locks of hair flowed about its shoulders. Slowly raising its head they could see this figure was a woman.
With suprise in her eyes when she saw the four of them standing in awe she spread her arms out in welcome. With this Bella ran to the woman and hugged her tightly. Pol stood and stared with that never ending glare of mystery. Jack crossed his arms across his chest and smiled. But Crimson had the look of contempt to her face. This woman was one she didnt expect to see and had hoped not to.
"Well this is a fine welcome. I come across miles and miles of dangerous ground for this reunion and only one seems to be pleased to see me."
"Oh it is a pleasure to see you Scarlett but we have very little time to talk."
Bella pulled away from her sister and stood back from her shaking her head in agreement.
"Yes we need to get moving. On your way here did you see how the battle was going out there." Crimson was getting impatient again and Pol seemed to be abit beside herself as well.
Looking at her twin sister Scarlett crossed towards her.
"Yes i saw. When we came through the moongate we had to take care of the guards there. Had to of been at least twenty men there. But it was no bother really. Getting into town was a bit of a challenge. Seems whoever you have angered was determined to keep hold of you baby sister. But with the forces out there I do believe the path should be clear."
"Should be or could be. From the sounds out there the fight is still going strong." Jack seemed anxious to get out there .
"Aye, Jack. But its of no bother to me. My men can handle whats out there."
With that Pol choked back a laugh. She always had thought that Scarlett was rather arrogant. Time and time again she had to prove her wrong and was punished for it greatly. They were never permitted to fight with one another for their fathers always forbid it.
"Well we need to get Bella out of here and down to the docks. There are horses across the bay waiting for us. We just need to get past all the chaos out there."
"Crimson the world would be nothing without chaos. I do my part to keep it going but there's only so much one woman can do."
With that the men with Scarlett let out a laugh. Bella and Jack joined in on the humor. But from the looks on Crimson and Pol's faces there was no way to humor them.
"You two have no sense of humor at all do you. Has the world of finery and propriety warped you so much that you cannot enjoy a bit of jest.?"
Shaking their heads they began to adjust their weapons and make way to the door. The one man guarding the door stood fast. He wasnt about to let anyone pass one way or the other without word from Scarlett.
"If you could have your man get out of my way we might be able to get going. I dont have forever to stand about talking. We must be on our way."
Slightly shrugging her shoulders Scarlett turned and nodded for him to move out of the way.
"I do tell you , sister you are undaunting to say the least. Hurry , hurry , and no where to go. The docks are still cluttered with guards. We need to clear a path there before we can cross."
"We. Where does this we come from. I dont remember asking you to come and help. Your kind isnt going to make the situation any better. It's bad enough I had to call on pirates to help as it is. But since a pirate got into this mess i figured a pirate should help get her out. I recieved your letter when i first got here but i didnt send a reply. Why did you come here anyways?"
Everyone stood looking at Crimson like she was a mad person. Never had they heard her raise her voice so. The situation was indeed taking a toll on her. Pol tried to calm her but there was nothing going to soothe her anger. Crimson was angry and there was no stopping her.
"I came here to help my sister. Thats what family is for Crimson. Not turning their backs on one another. Yes we each went our seperate ways but with the knowledge we would be at each other's backs when needed. Or did you forget that pledge? You were the one who made it and made us swear to it."
Pulling Scarlet aside from the others she had to seperate them before they came to blows. Away from the others she explained to Scarlett the events of the past few days. The hooded figures. The attack. The secrecy about this man Bella supposedly killed. She had to make Scarlett understand why Crimson was acting like she was. When she was done talking Scarlett turned to her sisters but said nothing.
With a few hand gestures she had her two men leave the house. Turning with a grim look on her face she spoke softly.
"My men will check the perimeter and the docks. As soon as we have words we can begin to move out. We must get to the Britain coast as quickly as possible."
With that they all made ready and waited for the signal from the Shadowlord men who came with her.

For what seemed like forever they all stood in silence til there was a knock on the door. Jack went to look through the window slot and saw that it was one of the men traveling with Scarlett. He opened the door slightly to confirm who it was. With a nod Jack let the man enter. Approaching Scarlett he said something to her and then went back to the door.
"It seems all forces have merged to the docks. Looks like we are gonna have to fight our way through to get across. Unless you'd rather swim across." With a devilish grin she winked at Bella. She knew there was no way Polgara would do that. She had always hated the water. Even sailing on the ships made her somewhat nervous. It wasnt that she didnt know how to swim she just didnt like it.
Crimson sinched up her belt and straighten her clothes. She was as ready as she would ever be. The others made themselves ready as well. Once again Jack made that terrible crackling sound with his neck and went to Bella's side.
"No matter what happens out there we have to get Bella..and.. Crimson out of here. For some reason those two have become targets and that is our main focus."
Everyone looked at Jack and nodded in agreement. And with that they headed to the door. When the door opened the cool night air met them. They had been inside for so long they had no idea what the weather was like. Even Scarlett noticed the change in the air. It had grown cool and damp. The darkness seemed to deepen as well. Each one as they stepped outside tried their best to blend into the shadows. Almost in single formation they skirted the edge of the townhall and across to the trees behind it. From there they made way to the back side of the inn. They could hear the shouts and clashing of blades towards the docks. The first thing that came to Crimson's mind was that Katarina was down there. In silence she gave a small prayer that the girl was alright.

With silent motion Crimson started pointing out positions and trying to get everyone into place. With a nod they moved out towards the battle. When they rounded the side of the inn they could see the fighting on the docks. There were so many bodies on the ground and so many fighting they couldnt believe what was happening. Guards by the score it seemed appeared from no where. Pirates and others were swarming the banks and heading straight into the fray. Crimson's small group looked about and found where they needed to be. With a raise of her hand they followed Crimson towards the docks. As they came closer , yelling as they went they raised their blades and fell into the fight.
Jack and Bella side by side took the guards down one by one. Crimson and Scarlett with backs to each other fought furiously at the men who ran to them. Running across the docks as if she was flying Polgara made way to her ship. As she ran her kryss sliced a way through the men. They tumbled into the waters off the docks and she finally found her way to the plank. Running up to the deck she turned at the top so she could see the whole battle. There in she dropped her weapon and stood straight. Raising hands above her head she started chanting. After a few moments creatures began to appear and began attacking the guards. The demonish monsters tore and shredded the guards so badly that the men began to retreat a bit. Some foolish ones decided to try and fight the monsters. But they too soon fell. When the major part of the guards were laying about the ground dead or dying Polgara yelled to Crimson for them to make way to the edge of the docks.
Reaching the edge there were several men standing guard holding back the throws of guards and protecting the boats. On the other side of the crossing Crimson could see more of their men fighting there as well. The enemy seemed to never stop coming. When they approached the men at the boats they seemed to step aside for them. Fighting their way through they jumped into the boats and started to make way across the water. From somewhere arrows came flying. As they rowed to the other side they had to continually duck the arrows. Only a few feet from the other side Bella yelled out to Polgara but Crimson couldnt tell what she said. All at once the banks of their escape were set aflame and the screaming of men could be heard. Pol had seen then where the arrows were coming from and set the banks on fire. The once hidden men jumped into the waters to escape the fires. Bella turned slightly in the boat and signaled to Polgara.
When they reached the other side most of the enemy were taken care of. Jack helped Bella out of the boat to shore and then quickly went to help Crimson and the others. Standing on the docks they looked out over the sight of Skara Brae. Demon creatures still chased and clawed at the guards and soon the men that had come to help their escape began to disappear into the shadows as quickly as they had appeared.
Crimson could see Polgara standing on the deck of her ship as it pulled away from the docks. The other ships began to move out as well. Pol waved with enthusiasm as her ship pulled out. Crimson smiled and waved back.
Within moments they began to run through the woods towards Jaccbo's house. There they would get their horses and make way to the Britain coast.

The silence in the woods as they made way to Jaccob's was unnerving. Not even the regular night sounds could be heard. The fine hairs on her neck stood on end as Crimson weaved in and out of the trees. The others followed close behind her and they too could feel something wasnt right here. In the distance Jaccob's house could be seen. A light shown from one window and as they grew closer a figure could be seen moving about inside. They knew Bernadette's brother was supposed to be there but they didnt really think the boy would be foolish enough to make his presence known. Not with them heading that way.
Jack motioned for them to stay back a ways and he went to the window that was lit. Inside he saw someone cloaked pacing back and forth. He couldnt tell who it was. There seemed to be no one else in the room. Sliding down to the ground and crawling back to where Crimson and the others were he had a strange feeling about what was going on.
"There is someone in the house but i dont know who it is. They are cloaked and very agitated about something."
Crimson could hear the concern in Jack's voice. But they had been delayed long enough. They had to get to the horses and get moving soon.
"Well leaving Scarlett and her men traveling the road near us might not have been a good idea. An ambush will make her very angry. I say we approach and try to take the person inside and find out whats going on." That comment confused Jack. Crimson wasnt usually so forward and rarely moved with out planning ahead. But he agreed. They didnt have time to stake out a master plan now. Their only plan was that of getting as far away from Skara Brae as possible.
Stooping low and moving quietly through the brush they made way to the house. The small log cabin was only one floor so there was no fear of being seen or attacked from above. Not unless someone was hiding in the trees and that was doubtful. The trees in the immediate area were quite small. Newly planted saplings to replace the larger older trees that Jaccob used for his craft.
Once they were below the window Bella and Jack made way to opposite sides of the porch. Crimson herself moved slowly to the front. As softly as she could she gained the stairs and made way to the door. Jack and Bella crawled below the windows on the front and stood guard on either side of the door.
With as much force as she had Crimson raised a leg to kick in the rough huned door. The sound of splintering wood was almost deafening in the silence that fell upon the forest. Hanging by only the top hinge the door lay to the side. The cloaked figure turned quickly and was standing in the middle of the room.

Standing , facing the hooded stranger sent chills down Crimson's back. Jack and Bella stood the ready next to her. The three were ready for anything this person was willing to throw at them. With a flourish the hooded one threw back the cloak and hood and stood smiling at them.
"Well its about time you got here. I have been waiting for you all to arrive."
The astonished looks on their faces was more than Kat could stand. Doubling over in hysterical laughter she almost fell to the floor. When she stood up she was looking right in Crimson's angered face. Before she could react Crimson's fist connected with the middle of her face knocking her flatly to the floor. Standing over her cousin with so much anger built up in her she saw what she had done. Crimson then couldnt help but laugh herself. There before her sprawled upon the floor in a clump was the most comical sight. Jack and Bella both burst into laughter.
Bella went and knelt next to Katarina. Slowly shaking her head and holding her nose the curses were barely audible. But Bella could hear them and it made her laugh even more. Jack composed himself and went to help pull Kat from the floor and set her in a chair to survey the damage Crimson had caused.
As Crimson watched the two take care of Kat she could hear rustling in the bushes outside. Snapping her fingers to get their attention she motioned that something was outside. Leaving Kat sitting in the chair the others took positions in the room. If someone was to come into the house they would be ready.
Soft booted steps made way up the steps of the porch and crept into the open doorway. As the intruder moved into the room Jack jumped out and grabbed for the figure. But Jack no sooner grabbed hold of the intruder than he went flying across the room skidding roughly along the floor. When Bella and Crimson jumped out from hiding to attack a bright light shone in the room and they were frozen in place.
The dark blue robes fluttered about and when the hood fell to the shoulders Polgara stood ready for more action. When she looked about the room she realized what was going on. Waving her hands she cast a spell to release her cousins. Then she broke out into a haunting giggle.
Jack scurried to his feet. With an angry look he went to Bella to see if she was alright. Pol approached Crimson but was wary to how close she got. She was not going to be within arms reach of her until she knew it was safe.
"Damn you Pol. Do you have to keep doing that all the time? And you know how i hate that spell. " Bella sputtered the words. She truly hated being paralyzed like that. It took some time for the numbness to wear off and it always made her ill afterwards.
"Sorry sweetling. But I have to keep prepared for anything you know. How was I to know you all would jump me when I walked in."
"You've been working out Pol. We wont mention to anyone that a woman threw me across the room now will we." Jack said with a low chuckle.
"Of course not Jack. But do remember that you were bested by a woman like me though. I shant try it again unless i deem it necessary."
They all looked at Pol like she had gone crazy. But all in turn began to laugh about how nervous they were behaving. Pol looked at her sister sitting in the chair and somehow knew what had happened. Quickly she went to Kat and began cleaning up the blood on her face and checking for a broken nose. Fortunately it wasnt broken . Pol turned her head slightly and glared at Crimson. All Crimson could do was shrug her shoulders and smile. Like it was nothing out of the ordinary for her to belt someone in the nose. Bella and Jack went and stood beside Crimson and watched as Pol took care of Kat.
After a few moments they began looking about the large open room. Jaccob was so minimal in his life they didnt expect his home to be so comfortable. Bedstead on one end , large fireplace and stone oven on the other end. Numerous chairs and tables about and a small curtained area that held a wooden tub with washstand as well. Modest but comfortable.
There was no sign of Benjamin anywhere. Jack decided he would go outside and check the stables and see if he was there. Surely he would of heard all the commotion they had been making. This worried Jack very much.
When he entered the stables Jack could see that all the horses were gone and there was no sign of Benjamin. Something wasnt right here at all. He knew this boy wouldnt take off without leaving some word somehow. Searching the barn he tried to see if there was any form of warning left behind. On the floor near the feed box he saw there was something scratched into the dirt. Moving a bit of hay from the floor he saw that there was an arrow pointing and the letter "E" was scratched near the point. Smiling he knew what it meant and stood to go back inside with the ladies. At the thought that crossed his mind he smiled even more. Ladies. That was an understatement if he had ever made one.
Once again Crimson had an odd feeling come over her. Walking to the doorway she looked outside and towards the barn. She could see Jack's shadow moving about. Then off in the distance not too far away she could hear hoof beats on the ground. Riders were coming in. She whistled to Jack to get his attention but she was too late. He had heard the same thing and was heading straight for her.
As he ran upon the porch he grabbed her arm and pulled her inside. Jumping across the room he doused the lantern light and they all stood in the darkness.
"Five. Maybe a few more. They are riding hard. " Trying to catch his breath he took post by one of the windows. Bella stumbled to the other. Kat stood and shook herself as she made way to the back door . Reaching to the table by the stone oven Crimson grabbed up a bow and quiver of arrows. Slinging the quiver over her shoulder she pulled an arrow out and pulled the bow string tight. Setting the arrow in place she stood in the middle of the room ready for whoever or whatever entered. Pol stepped up and took place beside her. They werent going to be taken by surprise this time.

Louder and louder the hoofbeats became. Closer to the house they were coming and not a thing to do about it. Suddenly they stopped beating and the scurried footsteps could be heard outside the door. Many feet trampled along the porch and stairs but became silent infront of the door. Low murmurs could be heard from the other side but Jack nor Bella could make out what was being said. To see who was out there was difficult as well since darkness had taken the forest in total.
The door began to open slowly. The intruders entered the room warily. The only light was that from the hearth. The low embers put off very little warmth or light at all. They were barely into the room when all at once a bright blue light was cast above them showering the room in raindrop size lights. Like tiny fireflies buzzing about they began to cling upon the strangers putting them in a glowing aura.
Trying to fling the mites from their clothing they began flailing about the room. Finally the leader of the group moved into the doorway and looked at the sight. The boisterous laughter seemed to take everyone off guard. And with a quick wave of a hand the leader set the hearth to full blaze sending light throughout the room. Turning and pulling back the hood from the cloak stood an amazingly enraptured auburn haired woman.
With great disgust Crimson lowered her bow and walked to the woman.
"If you dont stop scaring the hell out of me Scarlett I swear by father's grave I will beat you to a pulp. Why do you persist in using all this fan fare when you make an entrance."
"Dear sister, this fan fare you call it is to keep me from being killed. My men do all they can to protect me and would never let me enter anywhere without going in first. So please enough with your whining."
With anger in their eyes the rest of the group all rallied around Crimson. The looks they gave Scarlett could almost set her red hair on fire. Shrugging her shoulders she walked to the hearth to warm herself.
"Well at least you made it this far without being tracked. The guard have reassembled and have moved out onto the roads towards Britain. There will be no way for you to go towards the cross roads and into that area. Travel across country is the only way you will make it. Hell, they even have the moongates guarded now."
Sensing a bit of concern in Scarlett's voice. Crimson went and seated herself near the fire. Not only had the horses disappeared but they were now almost certainly trapped.
"Crimson. I found a sign from Benjamin in the stables. He moved the horses away from here to the east. From the sign it looks like he is waiting for us near the hedgemaze."
With that information from Jack Crimson's spirits picked up. Nodding to him she understood she looked about the room at the ones waiting for her next move.
"Well if no one is objecting and everyone thinks we can make it to the maze on foot, I think we need to be moving out. There's no time to rest. With the guard already on the move we have little time to spare."
They all nodded hesitantly in agreement. They were all tired and frazzled to the end but knew they had no choice. Gathering up a few items each they prepared to head out once again.
Looking at her sister with pain in her eyes Crimson touched her arm lightly.
"For your sake sister I do hope your information is right. If we go across the land the way you want it could be just as dangerous as facing the guards."
"No worries, Crimson. We should be able to cross with hardly any trouble. If we stay south of the maze and head to the river we can make our way across to the coast. Since they dont know that you live there it will be fine."
Patting Scarlett on the arm again they headed out the door to make way to the coast. Pol had taken good care of Katarina as she was very lively and ready to get moving. Bella and Jack looked like they had seen better days but they too seemed anxious to move out as well. Once she saw they were prepared she signaled it was time to leave. Scarlett and her men split into groups. One scouting ahead one to stay with Crimson and the other to bring up the rears. Two men to each group wasnt alot to help but it was enough to make Scarlett feel she was doing what she could to protect her family.

Weaving in and out of the trees in the dark was not an easy task. There was no way they were going to use torches to see their way through. To keep hidden in the shadows was their best chance of reaching the maze. Just as they reached the small clearing south of the maze the moon came out from behind the clouds that had been hanging in the skies for days. Shining brightly on the open patch of grass seemed to lend open invitations to anyone to see them when they approached. Stopping just short of the clearing they looked about to see any sign of Benjamin. He wasnt there. Deciding to stayin the treelines they moved further east always keeping the hedge in sight. Finally they reached the entrance at the southeastern edge. There they saw a young man watching the tree edges intently. They could hear the nicker of horses not far from where he stood.
With a low whistle Jack signalled the boy to let him know they were coming in.
When the boy caught sight of Jack his smile beamed. He seemed overly happy that the group had finally made their way to him.
"Ah, Captain. Tis good ye made it safely. I was afraid you didnt see my sign i left for ye. With those hooded ones traveling about I wasnt sure if it would be safe for ye and the ladies to come to Jaccob's."
"Good call lad. You have smart head on yer shoulders. It was wise of you to move out and not stay around waiting for us."
Crimson approached the two of them and gave the boy a questionable look. He seemed familiar to her but he couldnt place where.
"Benjamin. I do thank you so much for taking on such a task. You are a brave one at that. Did you happen to notice the direction the hooded ones had gone to before you left?"
"Nay me lady. They moved about in several directions. Was hard telling where they went off to. I hid up in the trees til I heard they had left the area. Then i crawled down gathered up the horses and headed out. Leaving Master Jack the message was the last thing i did before high tailing outta there."
"Ah. Well that is good. Once we get underway you can make your way back to Skara to your sister and be safe there once again. Once they figure we have left the area I am certain the city can get back to normal."
"Nay. That city will never be the same again. As i was leaving i heard tell they were gonna kill the mayor and take over the town themselves. They intend to put their own people in charge there. Not even Britainian authority will ever be able to help Skara Brae again."
With that comment everyone in the group almost knew he wasnt lying. There was evil work afoot and it might be spreading throughout the lands.
"Iffen you dont mind madame I would be liking to bring my sister and coming to stay on the coast with you and yours. She is too young to take to ship but I would greatly appreciate getting her and myself away from Skara."
Putting her arm around the boy she nodded in agreement. There was no way she could deny them . Without their help they might not of gotten Bella out of town and away from the harm intended for her. The boy loooked up into Crimson's face and smiled. There it was again. That familiar look. She returned his smile and after shaking hands with Jack the boy was off into the dark forest and back to retrieve his sister.
Gathering up the horses and mounting up they began to head east. The next leg of their journey should be quiet but Crimson had learned in the past few days to never underestimate the future.

Reaching the river Crimson knew it wasnt much further to the coast. As they headed along the northern shore and around the river bend she remembered how close they were to the moongate. Signaling the others they kept to the river's edge and headed south. At the edge of some trees they pulled the horses to a halt and Crimson had one of Scarlet's men go to the bridge to check out the area. It was known from past experiences that people liked to hand around the bridge to waylay travelers from Britain to Trinsic. Upon the man's return he told her there was no one near or on the bridge so it would be safe.
Quickly they made for the road at the crossing and continued on through the forest. The familiar night sounds made them all feel a bit more confident. The ride from the bridge crossing north east to the coastline went without incident.
The sun was beginning to set as they approached the strip of grasslands that divided the forest from the coast. As they passed the small villa Crimson noticed that the large tower that sat behind it was unusually dark. No light at all came from the tower. That was odd. But the forest sounds kept her questioning at bay. Crickets and nocturnal creatures made the area seem so friendly even though she knew danger was only a few miles away.
Around the back side of the tower they could see the darkened outline of the house. No lights. No sign of inhabitants. That worried all of them. They knew that Aletta, Jaccob and Meyer should be there. Crimson dismounted her horse and dropped the reins. Running up the steps towards the front door she could feel something wasnt right. Where could they be? Her mind began to runaway with horrible thoughts. As she passed the forge hut she saw that the embers in the forge were low. Very low. Aletta never let those die down. Slowly she came to the front door and entered. The hearth was cold. No embers at all. That too was unlike Aletta. There was no reasoning for this. Running through the house she cried out for the three. But no one answered.
When the others entered the door Crimson stood in the middle of the parlor shaking uncontrolably. The frightened look on her face worried the others as well. Looking about the room Polgara saw a parchment tucked wrecklessly under a ship model that sat on the mantle. Taking the paper she began to read.

Dearest Crimson,
We have set out upon a most urgent mission. Do not worry for I have great company with Jaccob and Meyer. They were insistant that we make this journey. It is vital that you not worry. We will return with haste once we have accomplished what we set out to do. Please take your rest if you can and make everyone welcome. There is plenty for all. I saw to restock provisions. We shall return quickly but if delayed will send a message.
Faithfully, Aletta

Handing the note to Crimson she turned to the others and smiled. They knew then that all was well and there was nothing further to worry about. But once she told them what the note said the ominous feelings returned. They all were wondering in their own minds what Jaccob and the other two could be up to.
Scarlett sat in one of the comfortable chairs and tried to relax. She felt safe enough to let the men go out and tend the horses. They agreed and said they would set up camp outside in the forest but would be ever watchful of the area around them. She couldnt help but agree with them. Seeing that the others were as weary as she was she bade them all to go and get some rest. A short nap before supper would do them all good. Scarlett motioned to Polgara and the two went upstairs to the patio kitchen to get some food together.
Jack pulled one of the cushioned chairs to the hearth and started a new fire. Before too long the roaring flames had begun to lift the chill from the room. Bella retrieved a blanket and placed it over Crimson as she sat and slept. Then she led Katarina upstairs to the bedroom and helped put her to bed. She still had not recovered totally from her head injury the day before. Tucking her into bed she then went to the kitchen to check on Scarlett and Pol.

Coming through the moongate had muddled Meyer's senses abit. He had only used them on very few occasions and those times he hated it as much as he did now. But what he saw when he came through the other side amazed him. Never had he seen such sights. The sandstone colored walls were so high and they seemed to stretch forever. The gate being on the inner wall of the city seemed to be crowded with all sorts of people. Warriors, merchants and many other regal looking folk. They all ambled about the courtyards that were within the walls. Ornately dressed guards stood at the entrance to the main hall. Thinking to himself these must be the paladins for which the hall was named. This indeed was a sight to behold. Sitting atop his horse he kept looking about like a child at would do. The entire visage of the city was amazing to him. Ahead he saw Aletta and Jaccob riding slowly towards the wall. There he could see the stables . Giving his horse a light kick he moved to catch up with them.
Dismounting they entered the stables. Jaccob handed the stable boy some coins and reins to the horses. The boy smiled and gladly lead the mounts away.
Dusting himself off he turned to Aletta and Meyer.

Reaching to dust off Aletta's shoulder he smiled brightly to her and then looked questionably at Meyer. The man had the strangest grin on his face as though he had just won the prize pig at the Moonglow Festival. Smiling and shaking his head he started walking slowly towards the market area. As he past the guards at the bottom of the stairway he nodded to them and they returned the gesture. Aletta looked at the guards then Jaccob. It was becoming apparent that he was familiar with this place more than she thought.
"Aletta. You and Meyer can walk about the hall and browse about while I tend to some business. I wont be long dear so dont worry. No harm can come to us here believe me."
Coming along side the man she took his arm and stopped him.
"Uncle. Please. I would rather stay with you. I have seen the shops before and would rather not be kept in the dark about this so-called business of yours."
Her comment suprised him. More so that she had openly called him uncle. At first he didnt think it wise to take her along to the Paladin Hall but then it was her family after all that was going to be the topic of discussion. Patting her hand which still held his arm he nodded.
"Aye my girl. You may go along with me. But no matter what is said you must hold your tongue and not speak to anyone. This matter must be approached delicately. Tis not often that these folk are asked what i must ask."
With curiosity whirling away in her head she nodded her understanding. They both looked at Meyer as if they were waiting for him to ask to come along as well. He looked at them both and grinned.
"Iffen you dont mind, I would rather wander around abit. I dont understand most of those fancy words you will be using up there. I best be staying down here with the some what common folk. You can find me in the shops when you are done." With that he walked on up the stairs and into the market area.
Shrugging their shoulders they followed Meyer up the stairs. At the entrance there was another set of stairs leading upwards. Looking to the left and then the right Jaccob lead Aletta to one of the sets of stairs. Quietly they made their way up to the next floor.
At the top Aletta could see that the walls inside the hall were still that which made the city walls. But these were adorned with rich colorful tapestries and paintings. The history of the city could be seen in every corner of the items. Trophies hung on walls all about along with ornate weapons and shields. This indeed was a magnificent place. Thinking to herself this must of been what Trinsic once looked like long ago. Amazing how things had changed over the years.
Walking down the long hallway they reach a set of doors that she could only quess opened into the meeting hall itself. Voices could be heard from within making the idea of entering a very scary venture. Jaccob seemed to have no indication that it was frightening. In fact the closer he came to the doors the more righteous he appeared. This was definitly a side of Jaccob she had never seen. His entire demeanor had changed. Ever since he saw and held the staff. Stronger. Brave. Was this the power of the staff that made this come about. It must be.
The golden handle of the door turned before Jaccob could reach it. The broad evenly carved doors opened and were held open for them to enter. Jaccob did so and as he passed the man at the door they nodded to one another. Aletta followed close behind nodding to the man as well. Once inside the doors were closed again.
Never had she seen so many noble and prestine people standing about. Women in colorful, fancy clothing. Some even garbed in shiny armor as well. The men looked spectacular in their platemail with long capes flowing behind them. It was like going to a grand meeting at Lord British's hall. She was amazed by the entire company in which she stood.

Walking into the gathering of men and women they seemed to part to the sides like a ship through the waves in the ocean. Reaching the center of the room many of the men came towards them. Many patted Jaccob on the back and shook his hand. Jaccob was well known here and Aletta didnt even know it. The woman seemed to stay back a bit from him but they had broad grins on their faces. They knew him as well but apparently for other reasons than the men. Jaccob was always such a ladies man, or so he said he was. His tales of his youth were tattered never giving much a clue to what he used to do but the one thing he did account for accurately was the ladies.
Staying as close to her uncle as she could she continued to watch all the people gathering closer. All but a small group in one corner of the room had eventually greeted Jaccob. The others she noticed showed no willingness to greet this man or the young girl with him. That set Aletta's nerves on end. As they looked over Jaccob and herself she could feel there was some ill will with them. Thinking to herself she decided it was best to be on guard and to keep a watchful eye on them.
Soon the crowd dispersed and went back to their conversations from before. One lone man then came to them. Standing tall and very formal he walked to Jaccob and took his arm in greeting. They stood there for a long time not saying a word . Jaccob broke the silence with a huge laugh.
"Thrano you old devil. Tis good to see you once again. You are the one person who I came looking for."
"Ah, Jaccob. Tis been a long time and you look no more worse for the wear."
"Aye. I have kept myself busy over the years. Retired in Skara I did. But alas things have come to pass and I have need of your service and freindship."
The man lowered his head as if he knew what Jaccob was talking about. Lifting his eyes slowly he looked straight into Aletta's eyes. The sorrow she saw in them made her feel funny inside. It was as if he was looking into her soul. Quickly she looked away and shide behind her uncle. The man then reached around Jaccob's shoulder and lead them away from the crowd to an ajoining room to the side of the meeting hall.

As they entered the room next to the meeting hall the two men went and sat in the cushioned chairs on the other side of the room. Aletta stayed by the door but was within hearing distance of them. Both men slumped into the chairs as if they were worn and fatigued. The pretense in the other room was just that. An act of some sort for those in the hall. Hanging his head low the knight seemed very tired. Jaccob watched him for a few moments but then he straightened in his chair and cleared his throat to speak. Before he could start the man sat up and spoke first.
"Jaccob, I know why you have come. Our conversation the other night was unexpected but then again i should of known you would come."
"Thranos, I told you I would come to Luna to speak to you..but there has been another development in the situation. There is more here than we originally thought."
Thranos looked at Jaccob and then looked towards Aletta. He seemed agitated now by Jaccob's words.
"More. What more could there be? Jaccob, I have enough on my mind as it is. The world is coming to chaos and theres little any of us can do. Since Lord British left the world there have been things happening all over. The discord in Yew and Cove. The attacks on Britain itself. The vermon invading Jhelom. Its all that the Royal guard can do to keep up. The call to arms is almost nightly. My men and those of the guard are tired. I cant even think about leaving the city to help in this skirmish you have come up on."
Looking again at Aletta he couldnt help but think he had seen this girl before. She looked so familiar to him yet he couldnt place it. Turning back to Jaccob he poured them some ale and sipped slowly at his cup. Jaccob refused the drink but offered it to Aletta. She also refused. Her mind was set on listening to Thranos.
"Jaccob, dont get me wrong friend. But your troubles are quite minor to those of mine. The trouble with those kind of people are of no concern to me right now. How do i know that Bella and the others arent involved with the likes of those in Jhelom. I know its unlikely but she does run with the wrong sort."
"Thranos!! Bella doesnt attack cities and small towns for her entertainment. She has always kept to the seas and you very well know that. Jack is the same. They keep their wars and such to the waters. Besides this recent incident had nothing to do with their piracy. This was done out of revenge ."
With those words Aletta jumped. The paladin was of an accusing nature. But she had heard about how paladins react to such activities. If it was for the crown or for the gods they were against it. With the flush of anger setting in her cheeks she continued to listen.
"Well I am sure there are many a folk out there that would be seeking some sort of revenge on her kind. The whole lot of them are wanted in one part of the world or another for their acts."
There it was again. That insulting tone and words. Aletta was indeed getting angry with this man. She started to move towards them but Jaccob held up a hand to stay her. This was the last thing he needed right now.
"Dear friend, you must listen to me. This is beyond me and the girls to deal with. You have to hear the whole story from the beginning."
"Alright Jaccob. I will listen to you, but i tell you now I do not think I will be able to help. From what i have heard those damned Shadowlords are involved in this as well. That is another area i dont feel like getting involved with. The factions fighting over the cities is just another part of this upheaval of the lands. The Shadowlords and Minax would just love a chance to get us involved in their fights. The Council of Mages have been breathing down our necks as it is about them. That is one aspect I will not be dealing with."
Frustrated with the turn of the conversation Jaccob took up his cup and swallowed the entire contents in one gulp. It would take quite a bit of talking to convince Thranos to help him. Maybe once he finds out the rest of the story he will be more inclined.

Crimson sat on the patio overlooking the stables and stared blankly at the ocean in the distance. The smell of the salty air wafted through her senses. Recalling the old days when they all were out there sailing and having what she thought was a good time. Then the day came when she decided to leave the Black Rose and try for a different life. Try to be normal. But indeed what was normal. True , things she had done lately were not considered normal but they were a far cry from those days on the seas.
Running through the door Bella came crashing and from the look on her face she was quite upset. Panting and trying to catch her breath she sat down roughly on the bench near Crimson.
"You....have to stop her. You just have to stop her. Scarlett is leaving."
"Where do you think she is going, Bella? If she feels the need to leave then that her decision , not ours."
"But you said we should stay together til Jaccob returns. You said we have to keep watch over each other and not let anything happen to us."
"Yes. I did say that but I am not about to strong arm Scarlett into staying. She has never listened to me in the past and i dont think she will ever listen to me now. She has her own things to take care of."
"But, Crimson. ..."
"No, Bella. I wont stop her if she chooses to leave. And if she doenst want to tell us what she is up to then that is her business. But remember this. If she falls to trouble I wont be able to help her. The trouble she would find is more than i would be able to deal with. I have no mind or stomach for faction fighting and that is what she is heading into."
"Jack said the same thing. He said we would be best to stay put and not meddle in her business."
"And for yet a second time I agree with Jack." With those words she let out a small laugh. She and Jack had more in common than they both were willing to admit. But of course they both have been through the same things in the past. This was something she hadnt realized til now.
Standing , Crimson walked to the edge of the patio and looked down upon the grounds below. There Scarlett and her men were mounting up and preparing to leave. With the turn of her head Scarlett looked up to see Crimson standing there. With a curt wave and a smile they headed out through the woods. For a while Crimson could here the hoof beats as they raced through the forest. Closing her eyes she raised her face to the sky and gave a silent pray for Scarlett. Praying they would reach their destination with no trouble. But she knew they were in for a long trip. They would have to travel all the way south to Trinsic to find an unguarded moongate to cross through. And then those perils were going to be endless.

Heading down the edges of the forests Scarlett and her men kept a watchful eye out for anything out of the ordinary. Crossing the bridge just south of Crimson's house was not an easy undertaking. With guards and creatures about they had to be very careful when crossing. But it was easy to make their way over and then up the coastline again. Staying on the water's edge they made their way south towards Trinsic. Scarlett knew not many guards would be found at that gate so they could easily cross over to the dark side of the world.
After spending a small bit of time with her sisters she decided she would resign from the shadowlords and try to rebuild a relationship with her family. She had been gone way too long and it was time to heal those wounds. All the girls were young when their uncle was killed and their father had disappeared as well. Never knowing what happened to him the girls seemed to bond closer together until the day they set sail and came to Britania. Once they arrived they took on identities that would forever mold who they had become. The rest was a mystery at why they turned out the way they did. Since not having any men in the family to guide them and their mothers long gone it was left to the eldest to make a way for them. Thats when Crimson, Scarlett and Polgara decided to get a ship and hit the seas. They knew there was nothing for them on land but the desolate lives of servitude and that was one thing none of them wanted. They had seen too much of that growing up. Once they established themselves in the shipping and fishing business the funds were then available for those who wanted to leave to be able to. Pol was the first to go. Putting herself into the apprenticeship of a mage was what she had chosen. But she was the only one who did so. The others stayed behind and continued on with the business. One by one a few of them drifted but they always came back. The only one that truly stayed on land was Aletta. She had become well noted for her woodworking, tailoring and other useful crafts. This wasnt possible for her being out to sea all the time. She decided she would tend the homefront and be there to welcome the girls when they came inland.
Scarlett remembered all those things vividly as they travelled through the Trinsic swamps and began to skirt the edge of town. Since after the seige years ago on the city it had fallen to very few citizens. Many had moved back now but it was still much a ghost town. Only a few guards and very few merchants remained there. Trinsic, once a very beautiful city was now sparce with civilization. Sad. She had loved coming to trinsic when she was younger.
The sun was beginning to fall behind the trees when they reached the moongate. Only two guards stood on watch. Quckly her men dispatched them and they were able to enter the gate. Her thoughts as she entered the gate were still drifting back to that time when things seemed so much more simple.
When the gate began to shimmer a ghostly red she knew they were reaching their destination. Pol always referred to Feluccia as the dark side. Laughing to herself Scarlett couldnt help but agree. Only the lowliest of beings lived here. A mirrored image of the other world but devoid of the beautiful foliage and nicer sort of people. Thieves , murderers, rogues of all sorts lived here. And here was where the factions decided to keep their fortresses.
Quickly before they reached the exit they made a shift in their direction. Learning to navigate the moongate had been hard for her but she soon became expert to it. The exit was in view and once they came through the darkness was in full sight. Always she got a eery feeling when they came here.
Shaking off the gloominess she shook her head to clear it. Looking to the west she could see the faint glow of light from the Abbey. The monks were always awake. Turning her horse she lead the way to the east towards the crypts. Shadowlord headquarters. She wasnt sure how they would recieve her since she had been gone so long. Not only gone helping her family but gone all together. She hadnt been there for months and had no contact with anyone as well. Hopefully she could get in leave her message and get out before being seen.
No sounds. No lights. The area around the entrance to the crypts was too quiet. Everyone must be out stealing the sigals again. With a roll of her eyes she slowly approached the outer wall of the crypt. She had grown tired of the contant battles and attempts to control the cities. The men who followed her were also weary of such events and is why they decided to stay with her. Only three of them but that was enough for her. They were comardes regardless of what they did. She often referred to them as the "brothers she never had."
And they enjoyed that title greatly. These three men had no families to speak of and were content on following Scarlett.
Noting that no one was about the area she set guards at the door and took one with her inside. Reaching the main room was easy once they got past those damned skeletons. Dismounting she came to the stone where they left messages and kept track of what was going on within the faction. With great tension in her hands she laid the parchment out on the stone. At least she could leave her resignation without having to face anyone there. That was one thing she didnt want to do.
Turning around and getting back on her horse she made her way out of the fortress. This was easier than she had thought. Once they met up at the doors they heard the beating sound of fast moving horses. Someone was heading their way. Quickly they rounded the building and headed north. This way they could skirt the area and round back to the gate without being seen. If the incoming riders were who she though there was no way she wanted to get caught in the crossfire between factions.

The sounds from the meeting hall seemed to quiet which meant the hour was getting late, or so Aletta assumed. Looking across the room the two men sat in silence as well. If she didnt know better they were both sleeping. Thranos fidgeted in his chair a bit and Jaccob returned his empty goblet back to the table.
Feeling frustrated by their silence Aletta approached them both. Pulling a small chair with her she seated herself infront of them and stared intently at them. After a few short moments they both raised their heads and looked at her with confusion. They had no idea what had gotten in to her.
"Finally. I have your attention."
They looked at her with confusion on their faces. They had no idea what she had meant by the comment.
"I have stood and sat here for hours listening to you bicker back and forth with one another. And from my understanding you have come to no conclusion of what to do."
Sitting straight in the chair she smoothed her skirt down and placed her hands in her lap. Very much content that she had their attention.
"Jaccob. You have not told him why we are here. And for the most part I dont know entirely why we are here. And Sir Thranos. You are totally engrossed in the things that you are involved in and for that i understand. But gentlemen this discussion needs to be brought to a decision. For what i do know my sisters and cousins are in great danger and for all i know i may well be in danger too. So this needs to get brought out before i myself go insane."
Both men looked at Aletta and then to each other. With waning smiles they sat up in their chairs with a bit of formality and cleared their throats to speak.
Seeing that her statement had wakened them from their wine induced melancholy she was then more relaxed. Maybe now the business at hand can be taken care of.
"The girl is right, Jaccob. Please forgive me for throwing my troubles at you. I know you wouldnt come to me unless you really felt i could help."
"No, no. I shouldnt have taken so long to tell you about my coming. But i just dont know how to approach the subject."
Great. Now it will take another few hours for Jaccob to get to the story. This was starting to annoy Aletta again. Seeing the disgust on her face Jaccob decided to just go ahead and tell it as it happened. Her proceeded in telling Thranos of the events in Skara Brae and then when he got to the mention of the hooded figures that attacked Crimson at the inn he could see that Aletta was taken aback by the words. But the expression on Thranos' face was more than he expected. The man looked as if he had seen a ghost. Which in fact is what the whole thing was turning into. Jaccob continued to tell what he knew up to the day he and Meyer left Skara.
"And that is where i left them. Shortly after we crossed to the mainland and headed towards the coast we heard the warning go off for the attack. After that i know not what has happened."
"Jaccob. This cannot be. You were there when he fell and it just cannot be."
The man's voice trembled a bit and it was obvious that he was disturbed by the telling .
"I was there, yes. I saw him fall as well. But I tell you he has come back and will not rest til he gets what he wants. He always accused me of trying to take it from him even when i told him i didnt want it. There was always conflict between us over that thing. I told him i had no interest in it but he still accused me of trying to steal it."
Aletta listened intently. What thing? Who accused? She was becoming more confused as the conversation went on. Jaccob looked slightly in her direction but made no attempt to talk to her.
With a shift of his eyes towards Aletta, Thranos nodded to Jaccob towards Aletta. All Jaccob could do was shake his head answering in denial. They both knew she had to be told the truth.
Thranos leaned back in his chair as Jaccob leaned forward towards Aletta. Taking her hands in his he hung his head low. Then raising his head to look her in the eye he began to speak to her. Directly to her.

The look in Jaccob's eyes was puzzling to her. She didnt understand why all this was so important to her. She understood that her sister and cousins were in danger but had no clue why all this would be so meaningful to her. Yes, family is important and what happens to one means much to the others but she had purposely kept away from their dealings. With never knowing her mother due to her dying in childbirth she only had recollections of her Aunt Ebony. She had very little memory of her father since he died when she was quite young. It seemed ages ago when she found the family heirloom that Jaccob now had possession of. Things were becoming very confusing for her.
Jaccob again patted her hands and touched her cheek lightly.
"There are things my dear girl i must tell you. Things that you will probably not believe...but they must be said."
Nodding her understanding to him he began to tell her the story of why her father had died. It seemed that he had fallen in with some members of a secret sect determined to overthrow Britain and bring evil to the world. He had put himself into the service of a mage who dealt in the darkest of magical arts. Necromancy mixed with high magery had become his obsession. Turning himself away from his family and all that was good in the world. He told her that on the day of her father's death the two of them had come to blows over who should control the staff. Her father wanting to bring the staff to evil use and himself wanting to keep it from it. Jaccob took a deep breath then continued to tell her how they fought ferociously and he had slain his own brother. He too was wounded severely and had no recollection of what had happened to the staff. He thought it may have been destroyed or taken by the evil forces that his brother was with. He never knew until the day she showed it to him. Looking at Aletta he could see that she was in shock over the tale of her father but she seemed to understand there was nothing that could of been done to stop it. Sitting back in her chair Jaccob continued telling her that the hooded figures that have been stalking the girls were of the same people her father had once been involved with. It was rumored long ago that they still sought after the staff that for some reason they felt it was of great power and would aid them in their fight for control. After her father's demise they had gone into hiding and was not heard of since. But now it seems they are back and very much looking for the staff again. That is why they came and attacked the girl's in Skara Brae.
Sitting back in his own chair Jaccob took a deep breath and tried to relax. The telling of this story was hard on him and Aletta could see that it brought back terrible memories to him. Having really never known her father she found it all a bit overwhelming. Thranos reached towards Jaccob and nodded towards the beds.
"Jaccob . You tire yourself my friend. The night is late and you two need to take some rest."
"Yes. You may be right. We have a freind out in the city. If you could have someone fetch him here we may be able to rest for the remainder of the night. But this discussion isnt done. We still need to decide what to do."
"Yes, yes. I wil send someone for your friend and I agree that we need to talk about this further. If what you said is true we could very well all be in danger."
Thranos rose and left the room. Jaccob lead Aletta to one of the small beds in the room and helped her climb in and cover up. She was so tired but her mind was racing with images from the past. Fleeting thoughts danced through her head from when she was younger. Only a dark shadow filled the spot of the man who she remembered as her father. Then memories of Ebony taking care of her and teaching her things. Her early memory of Jaccob was not to be found. She only remembered him from being on Crimson's crew and taking care of them there on the Black Rose. Finally sleep took her and the world became blank as she fell into a deep sleep.
A knock on the door and Meyer entered the room. Jaccob pointed to the other bed next to Aletrta and Meyer went to lie down. It wasnt long before sleep overtook him as well. Jaccob sat once again by the fire and thought back again to the day his brother died. Questioning himself he wondered if Jonah was really dead. It made little sense to think otherwise but something kept creeping into his mind. Something recently that was unsettling to him. There was more of a connection to the things that happened in Skara than that of the hooded figures. After a few moments passed it came to him like a lightning bolt across the sky. Lighting up the dark recesses of him mind. Maxwell.

Sitting back and taking in all the events that had past of late Crimson was overwhelmed at things that had passed. Her sister's incarceration, meeting up with Jack, confronting her cousins, and the appearance of those dark hooded figures. None of the things made sense to her. Did they all tie in together? Was it all some elaborate plan to make her life miserable? If so then who ever was behind it was succeeding.
The sounds around the house were what were normal to her. Chattering of the birds. The noises of the forest creatures. The waves of the bay splashing the shoreline. And the light conversations of the people who were trapped in the house with her. They were told to not leave. Told. Why was she listening to Jaccob about this? What did this old man know that he couldnt tell her about? Not even Scarlett knew of the mystery that Jaccob was keeping. And now he had Aletta with him. She of all people had nothing to do with any of this. Purposely she kept out of their dealings from the past. Passive and shy, there was no way that Aletta could deal with the troubles waiting for them all out there. What on earth was Jaccob thinking taking her along with him?

Sleep seemed to evade ALetta. She kept thinking back to the day she found the staff under those leaves, covered with blood. The thoughts she had carried for years of her father's death seemed to become blurry. Never did she see his body. Never was any real proof brought home of his death. Things were beginning to settle into place abit. Her father's supposed death and then the untimely death of her mother. Being raised by others for so many years. She thought to herself if it was possible that he was still alive. Just as the sun was about to rise she huddled under the covers to try and remove the chill that had taken over her body. How was she to deal with anymore information that Jaccob was to give her? It was enough to hear that Jaccob was her uncle as well. And to hear of the things that had come to pass in Skara. The confusion was taking its toll. Finally she fell asleep.
When the dawn came Meyer and Jaccob moved to the warmth of the fire and sat in silence. They ate the food brought to them and waited for Aletta to get her rest. She was in need of as much as she could get. After some time a guard came to the room and gave them a message to meet Lord Thranos in the main hall. Leaving Aletta to sleep and Meyer to watch out for her Jaccob went to meet his old friend.
Entering the double doors of the main hall brought back many memories from the past. Memories he hadnt let invade his mind for many a year. The sight of the Paladins sitting around talking and chatting amongst themselves was a sight for any person to behold. In all their splendor it was truly amazing.
Jaccob approached Thranos and sat next to him. Quiet nods came from the others around the room. It was apparent that Thranos had made mention to them what was going on and had made a plea for their help. Many of those in attendance were there when they fought this evil for the first time and many would come to fight again. Jaccob sat back with a slight grin on his face. He knew they would come to his aid but only had to make sure of such.

Many of the knights , warriors and paladins talked amongst themselves. The older ones relayed the stories of old to the younger ones which made them realize that the fight against evil was still very much needed. The enthusiasm of the youth bolstered the passions of the elders and there was much excitement in the air. Although they knew this fight would be of great hardship on many they all knew and felt there was nothing else that could be done.
After much talk the decision to help was made. Half the forces in attendance would stay and remain their vigil with the guard to protect Britania and the other half would go and assist Jaccob with his mission. Their were many that had made this decision based solely upon their own past with this evil Jaccob talked of. They had seen first hand what they would be up against and for this they chose to join him. Their sons and daughters too decided to stand by their fathers, uncles and others to do what they could to help.
Jaccob sat back. Pleased he was that the allies he once had in the past were willing to stand with him again. Now he needed to get word to his family in Britain to what was going on . He thought at first to send Aletta back and let her do the telling but after much though he decided to keep her at his side. She would be safer with him than back there. The ones there would be able to keep themselves guarded. As he rose from the table to go see to Aletta a messenger came and gave Thranos a newly arrived missive. Looking at the message he handed it to Jaccob.
Taking the note and reading it another great smile crossed his face. Things were falling into place that he hadnt forseen. And now this force would be there to aid him as well.

Sitting on the balcony Crimson looked out over the trees and saw the waters of the bay in the short distance. It was hard for her to believe that she had left all that behind so many years ago. The smell of the salt air drifted through the thin forest and seemed to smooth away some of the angst that had been building in her. The sun shone through the sparse canopy of trees and felt good to her skin. Having removed her armor and donning a plain cotton dress she found in a trunk she sat back and tried to enjoy the surroundings. She could hear the chatter of her family and companions across the way as they sat around eating and telling stories of the past. She couldnt help but think how nice it must be to be so carefree as they all seemed. The only one that had any idea of the dangers that they had just faced was Polgara. But she too was having a grand time talking about the things she had been doing over the years. Laying back in the comfortable chairs she glanced about at the flowers and such that Aletta had taken pains to grow. This would be the life she would love to lead if she had any clue as to how to do it. Her destiny was coming close to hand and that much she wasnt sure if she was ready. To spend days on end playing with flowers and such as Aletta did would be wonderful.
In the distance north of the house Crimson heard hoofsteps of a fast riding horse. That seemed to send a chill down her spine. She was growing very tired of speeding horses coming her way. It never brought good news.

The messenger jumped from his horse and ran onto the porch. His first encounter was that of Jack and Bella. Once he handed over his message to them at knife point he rushed back to his horse and quickly threw himself to the mount. Turning quickly he saluted them both and rode off. Crimson stood on the balcony looking in confusion as the rider headed south through the forest. South. That was odd. The moongate just west of the house must be guarded still or else something was there he didnt want to encounter.
Turning away from the sunshine Crimson made her way to the door to enter the house. As she made her way to the stairs and descended she saw Bella and Jack standing infront of a seated Polgara. When Pol looked up her eyes sparkled with mischief. Crimson knew that the news must be of great importance.
"Cousin. We have just recieved word from Jaccob. The warriors from the great city of Luna have decided to come to our aide. This is good news."
All three looked at Crimson to gauge her reaction but were dismayed when she showed no reaction. Crimson only nodded her head and headed out the front door to the forge shack.
Bella looked to Jack and Pol. She seemed confused at her sister's reaction.
"I would of thought she would be pleased to have help this time. Strong bodies and military influence will help us greatly."
"Oh dear Bella. I dont think that Crimson is looking at the situation as you do. She has always been concerned for others and to bring them into this battle is weighing heavy on her mind. I only wish that Jaccob's message had given us more imformation. It was sketchy at best." Polgara hung her head in worry and began to read the message again. It gave no other clues but the one that forces were rallying to help in their fight. Nothing else was said. Rising from her seat she went up the stairs to prepare herself. Stopping on the stairs she looked down at the two and smiled deeply. It was good that Jack was staying by Bella's side through this.
"You two should get ready. I think we will be leaving sooner than we thought."

The forge was cold. Something that never happened. Aletta always kept the fires going whether she was working or not. It seemed so odd. Lifiting the lids of the heavy chests Crimson looked throughout them getting the things she needed. She hadnt handled swords or bows in so long yet now she was becoming familiar with them again. Taking out the sharp and shining katana she slid it into a sheath and layed it to the side. In another trunk there were fine pieces of leather armor. Picking through the lot she found enough to fully suit herself for protection. Hanging from the wall were several fine looking bows and quivers full of arrows. Taking one of each she laid them to the side as well. Pulling off the soft cotton dress she quickly pulled on the armor pieces. It had been quite a while since she had worn such fine leathers and they all seemed to fit her perfectly. Sitting on one of the trunks she pulled on the soft supple thigh boots. Standing she grabbed a thin leather strap and pulled her long hair behind her head. Tying it tightly and out of the way she leaned over and grabbed her weapons. For the first time in a while she felt comfortable. Donning armor and weapons put her even further back into what she once was.
As she walked out of the forge hut she stood straight and looked out into the forest around the house. Taking in a deep breath she went back inside the main house. As she entered she noticed that the others were standing in the ready. All looked in her direction and smiles creeped onto their faces. It had been many a year that they had seen her dressed as she was. All the memories of the past seemed to come to them as they looked her over. It seemed that each one of them except Jack remembered the times with great affection. Once Crimson had been a fierce commander of the Black Rose and took her role seriously. She fought with a vengenance and it was apparent that she was ready to do so again.
Pol came close to Crimson and handed her a small bag. Crimson knew what was inside. Hesitantly she took the bag and tied it to her belt. Knowing that she would need everybit of the herbs that Pol had packed her. Not wanting to admit it but Crimson's magical powers were as strong or stronger than Pol's. Bella turned towards her sister and came close to her. Extending her hands, Bella handed an ornately carved flute to her sister. She also knew this might come in handy to her as well. Crimson smiled at her sister and took the flute. Tucking in into the snug belt she knew now she was ready.
At once loud noises could be heard on the second floor. Then all at once with not much care Katarina stumbled down the stairs. Never being graceful she straightend at the bottom of the stairs. There she stood. Black hair flowing about her head with the most endearing angelic smile across her face. The rest could not help but to laugh out loud as they all looked at each other knowing this was going to be one hell of a fight.

Sitting in the very busy hall was a bit unnerving to Aletta. Warriors moved about in a frenzy. In and out the heavy main doors. To and fro with both small and large parchments. One old man came in and placed a huge book infront of Jaccob and Thranos. It seemed they spent hours looking through the book and leafing through the messages spread out on the table. Neither paid much attention to Aletta as she rose from her seat and moved about the hall. No one really seemed to pay attention to her at all. Silently she moved to Jaccob's side and peered at some of the papers that she could see clearly. One came to her with an almost blinding jolt. The map that showed was of the location to where she lived. The coordinates were scribbled across the bottom. A bright red pinpoint marked the exact spot on the map where her house stood. Reaching for the paper she looked further and read the short note at the bottom.
Location found. Approach with caution. Shall meet at moongate.
Aletta gasped after reading the words. Reaching for her uncles shoulder she shook him to get his attention. He swatted at her hand as if to dismiss her but she continued and blurted out her concern.
"JACCOB. This is my house. This map leads right to my doorstep. We have to get back and warn them all."
Looking into her scared eyes Jaccob knew there would be no stopping her. He patted her hand on his shoulder and rose to take her into his arms.
"Oh my child. Do not worry. I have sent word to Crimson about this missive. She is aware of what is happening. Do not worry about them. We have men on the way to their aide."
She looked at him with great concern but settled down a bit.
"Un..uncle. I insist that you tell me what you are doing. I have to know what is going on and the plans that you are working on."
"Yes..my dear. Here sit with Thranos and me and we shall reveal it all to you."
With that he sat her in the seat he was in and took the chair next to her. Now she was settled between the two. See heard and saw all their plans. The more the conversation went the more intrigued she was with their plans. She had never really thought about strategies and such . But she was getting a first hand look at how these warriors work.

The ride south to the bridge was a short one and very uneventful. Crimson was always on guard when out on the road since many wandered this area. Being so close to Britain didnt set well with her either. Knowing that they were wanted now made her nerves stand on end.
The small group crossed the bridge and began to head south just off the road. Getting to the Trinsic moongate would be a hard trip indeed. Riding two by two with herself in the lead didnt leave much protection. But staying far off the road would be much better. After hours of riding they soon reached the area for the cut across. Crossing the river where it flowed into the mountain side wasnt her favorite choice but it had to be done. She also knew it was only an hour more ride to the gate. It had been a long time since she had been in this area. Long time indeed.
She remembered the small house they had on the inlet just south of the gate when they first arrived to the lands. After a while the girl's searched out new places to llive and go on with their lives the way they wanted. Aletta by the seashore, Polgara in the Wind Mountains, Bella north of the Compassion Desert and Crimson in the Northern Forests north of Yew. The only one that she had no idea of where she lived was Scarlett. Having lost communication with her years ago and only recently seeing her again made it hard to ascertain where her sister had taken up residence.
Dodging the trees and the ragged terrain of the Trinsic area was tiring for the horses. They would have to find shelter soon or else they would be targets for anyone this time of the day. The sun was beginning to settle which made it quite hard to see in the dense forest of the area. Polgara took out a small pouch from her belt and cast a few light spells around the group. She didnt make them very big light sources as she didnt want to alarm anyone or anything of their approach.
Increasing anxiety welled up in all of them. They were heading into dangerous territory and they all knew well of it.

Going ahead of the group, closer to the gate Jack was cautious. Even leaving his horse with Bella it was still tough to move about through the brush and trees. The glow from the gate was bright as day but the shadows surrounding it would make it easy for anyone to hide in. Sounds of small creatures were very audible to his keen sense of hearing and it added to the anxiety he was feeling. He knew something or someone was out there but he couldnt tell just where.
The others held back some on their approach. Waiting for a sign from Jack. But there was nothing. Pol could feel the small hairs on her neck stand on end. She could sense things werent all together right out here. The stress from the previous days and nights had worn her down and she was sensing all the forboding she could possible feel right now. Looking about there was not much to see but shadows upon shadows. She knew all too well how the night could play tricks on the mind.
Then clearly she could hear the tell tale signal from Jack. It wasnt an all clear signal but one of caution. So they made their way closer to the gate. Once in the outer edges of the gate circle they stood still and waited for Jack to rejoin them.
Approaching Crimson she could tell from the grimaced look on his face that he didnt like the looks of things.
"Honestly Crimson i say we move back and wait for daylight. There's something out there and I dont mind telling you I dont like it."
"I understand Jack, but we really wont be any safer out here in the dark of the forest than going ahead through the gate."
"Yes. But we dont even really know where we are going."
"No i dont. But I know where to find information to get us where we need to be."
Shaking his head he moved towards Bella. Looking into her face he saw that steeled determination of hers and knew there was nothing else he could do but follow with them. Many times over the past few days he wished he had stayed on his ship where it was safe. But his feelings for Bella had stayed him. He would never let anything come to harm her.
Crimson looked about at her small group and gathered up the strength to move on. She knew once they crossed through it would be a rough ride into the lower edges of Britain. With a nod they moved forward.

The bright light from the glowing gate almost blinded them from the darkness around. With anticipation they bolted for the gate. Not wanting to hesitate they goaded the horses into a run. Just as they reached the circle riders came flooding through. Crimson reined back her horse in almost terror. She tired of being taken by suprise at every turn. By instinct she pulled her sword. But once all the riders came into better view she saw that it was a group of folk she was glad to see. Scarlett.
Once they all had realized who was amongst them they relaxed a bit. Not for long though. Scarlett headed to Crimson in haste.
"Finally i found you. I have been looking for you for two days."
Crimson settled back with ease and looked at her sister with concern.
"Why would you come looking for us? We were at the coastal house until only a day ago."
"I went through that blasted gate near there and it was swarming with those hooded ones. We had to take cover for the night and make our way around to the coast from the bridge. When we reached the coast the house was gone. Burned to the ground, along with the other houses in that area. I was frantic with worry for you all."
Crimson couldnt believe what she was hearing. If they hadnt left when they did they would have been caught and would of had to make a stand there. She thought about how Aletta would feel when she learned the news of her house being gone.
"Come follow me. There is only one place left for us to hide out. No one knows of my house and i think it would do us good to go there and wait. I will send a rider to Luna and let Jaccob know where we've gone. My house is surrounded by many friends and is so obvious in location that we might be safe there."
The others nodded in agreement and they headed into the gate.

As they entered the gate and concentrated on where they were heading all could feel the eeriness as it fell upon them. Coming through the gate the smell of the air was even different. This land was not the same as they were used to.
Only Bella and Jack seemed to not be affected by the wave of changes upon coming through.
There was no time for them to talk about what they were doing. Following Crimson they kept there mounts close together. The terrain was not the same at all. The lifeless trees and shrubs brought out the forboding feeling that this land was full of evil and death. It almost hung in the air like a fog.
Closing in the borders of the town they quickly fled across the back streets til they came out on the eastern side . Keeping Scarlett in their sites they rode for what they felt was a long trip into perdition. Glancing about the buildings and the few folk that wondered around, Crimson knew they couldnt stay in this place for too long. Jaccob would angry for certain for them to be going here.

After what seemed like an eternity they passed through a dense forest-lined road and made their way east of Britain. The sun was beginning to set which was making the road almost hard to see. Keeping tightly together the continued on.
Ahead there could be seen many lights from homes and the night sounds were almost welcoming. They seemed to be coming towards a small community of houses and for a few moments serenity seemed to beckon them. Crimson knew that deep down this area was full of dangers. As they reached a curve in the road the glow of candlelight from one house cast down on the road and a lone figure could be seen sitting there upon a dark steed. Dressed in vibrant blue the figure seemed almost mystical in the candlelight.
Scarlett held up a hand to warn them to slow their pace as she approached the figure in the road. But once she came closer her recognition of the figure seemed to drown out any fears she was having. Living in this area she was always cautious of the evil that wandered about. Whether it be creature or man she was always on alert.
Coming closer she raised a hand in salute to the figure and the smile that greeted her was welcoming. She knew now they would be safe for a while at least. Greeting her on the road was Lord Aiden the Bold and he was patrolling the area as many of his guild did so often. He made no move to come closer to Scarlett but let her come to him. She smiled brightly at the man and knew things would be well.

Looking over her shoulder at the ones following, Aiden gave Scarlett a slight smile. He had heard rumors of what had been happening over the last few weeks and for that he had arranged for more patrols in the area. Knowing she might head this way he wanted to be prepared. The area was full of his own people and those of many enemies but that was no cause to drop his guard.
Riding her mount close to his she reach out a hand in gesture to him. He took it gladly and smiled even brighter towards her.
"My lady, Scarlett. You seem to have seen better days."
"Yes, my Lord. It has been a task that I would much rather of avoided."
"Through my sources I have heard of the troubles that are about the lands. I am grateful to see you and your friends have made it safely to our area."
"Indeed. It was most trying getting here. The forces were are trying so hard to avoid seem to be on our trail constantly. We have evaded them at every turn but it has left wrath and ruin in their wake."
"Well , my dear. Fear not. You will be safe here. The Dark Star Rising will protect you and yours when the need arises. I told you once you found haven here that you were most welcome. Your friends and family are ours as well. Please, my lady, take your folk to your home and get some well deserved rest."
"Thank you , my Lord. That is what i intend to do. ONce I have them settled i will be sending a dispatch to Luna to my uncle. He needs to know where we are and that we have arrived safely."
"On that note, my lady, I myself will send the message to him. I have ways to send communicades without having to send them personally."
"Thank you so much. You are so kind to aid me."
Smiling once again to her he meerly nodded is head and moved his horse aside so the other could pass. He curiously looked over each one as they passed him and nodded them a welcome. When Bella passed by his eyes grew bright.
Thinking to himself he felt that it was no wonder there was so much trouble. The looks of this young woman was to certainly cause problems no matter where she went. The mischief and mayhem seemed to float around her in a mystical aura.
Pulling up the rear of the group was Jack. Aiden nodded to him in welcome but Jack's eyes blazed in anger. Jack had seen that look before and knew that it would cause troubles. He shouldnt be jealous but deep within him it was there.
Once the group had passed several members of Dark Star Rising rode up to join Aiden. They stood next to him proudly and watch the small group head towards Scarlett's home.
"Seems that Madame Scarlett has returned once again."
"Yes, Frost. She has returned and I feel that trouble is not far behind her."

Coming closer to the house Scarlett could see that there were lights shining through some of the windows and smoke was coming from the chimneys. Apparently someone was waiting for her to return. She knew no one right off hand that was aware of her coming home. She signaled to her group to keep their guard up as they approached closer.
Dismounting and putting the horses in the coral area they made ready to greet who ever was in the house. Dividing into two they entered through the seperate doors leading into the house. Scarlet went in through the front door and looking about the massive room she saw a dark figure sitting in her favorite chair. She slowly approached him and saw he was sleeping. Rather comfortably he had one leg crossed and resting on the other leg with his head laid back. Kicking the foot that still was on the floor it rousted him from his slumber along with a jerk of his sword that was laying across his lap. Jumping back from his reach Scarlet burst out in a low giggle. She knew he wasnt expecting to be caught off guard.
Jumping to his feet he stood on guard but was still dazed from his sleep. Blinking away the suprise he stood face to face with Scarlett. The others approached behind her and spread out looking at the man standing there.
"Ah my dear Dirk. Glad to see you made things ready for my return."
Grumbling under his breath he sheathed his sword and ran his hand through his tumbled hair. He knew then things would be alright. The familiar voice of Scarlett made the tension go away as he sat back down in the chair with a flop.
"Damn, Scarlett. Don't do that to me. I aint used to folks sneakin up on me."
"That was obivous. What are you doing here this time of night ..not to mention being here at all."
Looking up at her and the others he smiled greatly. Mischief hung on his face like the shine of a new coin.
"Aye. I figured you would be wonderin that. I heard reports or gossip i should say that you had left the factions and was reuniting with your family on some important mission. The rumors are that you all are in some deep troubles."
Scarlett threw her head back and sighed. Thinking to herself that there was no where they were going to be safe from this mess.

While the others took their rest Scarlett filled Dirk in on the latest happenings and made sure he understood all that was going on. At least as much as she was able to understand. There were still things she hadnt quite figured out yet but once they were back with Aletta they would all soon be able to piece together the puzzle their lives had become.
Dirk had also informed Crimson of the goings on around the area. That the friends here in the region were on extra watch and had a weather eye out for anything strange about. Crimson began to feel a bit more relaxed with this news. The more there were to help the better off she felt. She also knew that these people were ones she could put her trust in. Scarlett was never one to open up to just anyone and the fact that she built her home here amongst these folk was a testiment to that trust.
Throughout the day they could see folk moving about in the area and it was obvious to her they were on patrol. She had even spotted the man they met on the road a time or two. This man seemed to be genuienly intereseted in the goings on at the house. But Crimson figured it was only the reasoning of keeping his friends and family safe hereabouts. And that thought was fine with her for thats all she has been trying to do as well.
The small guard hut infront of Scarlett's house was busy with activity. Messengers were coming and going throughout the day. This seemed to be the prime area for the service. It was odd to her that Scarlett would build so close to the guard shack. But then again, Scarlett was never one to hide behind one's skirts. She would stand out in the open in order to less obvious to others.
Standing at the edge of the roof top garden Crimson watched as the the light of day began to wane and the cool breeze wafted through from the cove. The slight smells of salt in the air made her breathe in a sigh and relax. But only a little.

Standing at the edge of the second story porch Crimson looked out over the area. It was dark but in the distance flickering candle light could be seen through out. This area was inhabited by many and from what she heard they were all within the same guild. From her understandings from Scarlett they were more like family than they were anything. Coming from all walks of life and with many different personalites and skills they came together as a band of friends and exceeded all expectations of themselves. Bonds can come in many forms with people and Crimson was soon finding it hard to think otherwise. Especially when she looked at her own family and the friends that have come to aid them.
In the distance she heard the hurried sound of horse hooves moving closer. Then at once two riders approached. Dismounting and entering the small guard shack in front of Scarlett's house she saw many other figures approach. They too entered the shack and faint voices could be heard. Some louder than others but there was a mighty discussion going on for sure.
The front door opened and in haste she saw Scarlett run to the front of the shack and enter. The voices grew louder then. Someone started shouting and then she heard nothing. It had quieted down to only murmurs again and that disturbed her.
Something must be going on or else so any wouldnt be involved. Just as she decided to go inside and make her way to the shack the inhabitants had left and went seperate ways. Some back through the woods and others just across the road. Scarlett was the last to leave and she slowly made her way back to the house. From the way she walked Crimson knew that her sister wasnt happy at all. She had to find out what was going on.
When she turned Polgara was standing there. The look on her face wasnt the most inviting. She looked like she had seen things she didnt really want to see. It wasnt often things would frighten Pol but whatever she was thinking about had definetly put a fright in her.

Polgara made her way to the rooftop. She had to get away from the others so she could try and make sense of the vision she had just had. In the darkness and the sweet scent of the forest she could meditate and search her mind for some answers. Standing near the fountain she could hear the faint sounds of the night creatures and the far off waters lapping the shore not so far away. Looking skyward she could see the many stars that dotted the black skies. Studying them closely she could see her favorite star off in the distance and noticed that it was glowing brightly. Then at once it turned red as flames and disappeared. Sinking to the floor she cupped her face in her hands. She had never seen this happen before and it disturbed her. The images in her mind and the diminishing of her star was unsettling to her. It had to have some meaning but she was running out of options to find out what it all meant.
Lighting a candle from her pouch she then spread out her cloth on the floor and pulled the tarot cards from her pocket. She had to search the cards to see if they would give her any answers.
As she turned the first card over it was puzzling to her. There was the image of a simple man standing in the Lycreum and surrounding him were human like figures. She studied the card closely but couldnt make anything of it.
Turning the next card it showed her a huge Great Hart surrounded by many female harts. This was indeed an odd card. never had she seen this card before.
Quickly she turned the next card. This one appeared to be a treefellow..those that can be found around the city of Umbra. Continuing with the next card was that of a great bear in the forest. Then there was a sphinx in the desert. All these cards were meaningless to Polgara. The next card was that of a centaur surrounded by timberwolves. Finally the card showing a pixie appeared when she turned it over. Many of these things she had seen before but some of the images seemed out of place to her. It was very confusing to her. It had to have some meaning and she wondered to herself if she should mention it to the others or not.

Rising from the floor Polgara decided to try and get some sleep. That was one thing she hadnt had in many days. A few hours here and there was not like her usual routine. The luxury of using her skills as entertainment allowed her to sleep in late of mornings and do as she pleased. Since she arrived at Skara Brae and this whole adventure started she was way off her game. She needed to get her mind set back to the things at hand.
Deep in her mind though she knew that her visions and those damned cards were linked somehow. She could hardly wait for Jaccob and Aletta to show up and give them more answers to what was going on. She thought to herself they should of arrived by now. That bit of knowledge weighed heavy on her as well as it did Crimson. The others seemed to not to mind as much. But they were like that. Carefree and aloof. Bella. That girl would be the death of them all one day for certain.
Reaching the second floor she looked about for an empty bed and crawled in. Clothes and all she curled up under the thick fur covering and rested her head in the pillow. Closing her eyes she relaxed and sleep came quickly.

All had found places to sleep. Scarlet to her room, Bella and Jack found a bed to take rest and poor Kat curled soundly in the small bed close to the fireplace. Still not back to her self Crimson had to admire her willingness to keep going. Looking around the room she saw that Polgara had finally laid down for some rest. Although she tossed and turned she still slept. Crimson walked through the house and advanced to the next floor. There was a room with a large bed and she crawled into it. Pulling the covers up tightly she tried to relax. Many visions crossed her mind as she drifted off. The images she saw in Skara, the burned out wreckage of Aletta's home, many things over the last few weeks. It was disturbing and still a bit confusing to her. If only Jaccob would arrive and set things straight.

Although the group was small by many standards Aletta was amazed at the briliant shining armor of the group behind them. Looking over her shoulder she could see warriors on horseback steadily keeping pace with one another. Very regimental indeed. No one faltered in their steps and the mounts beneath them seemed to move without assistance from their riders.
Exiting the moongate they approached the road they stopped and gathered about still maintaining a form of unison. A rider bolted through the forest and headed towards Jaccob. The young man's face was brightly colored red from excertion of the ride. The news must not be good fore the expression on his face and that of Jaccob was all too obvious.
Jaccob turned slightly on his horse and motioned for several of the riders to move ahead of them. Leading the way they made for the coastline and to Aletta's home. She wanted to bolt ahead of them all and make her way home but Jaccob grabbed her reins and bade her to stay close to him. At this she became even more concerned. She knew the message had to of arrived to Crimson telling them they were on their way. There shouldnt be any trouble but there was still that underlying feeling that it wasnt going to be good.
The closer they came to her house Aletta felt unnerved. Then she felt it. Cold, darkness and the scent of burning. Smoke. Strong heavy scent of scorched earth. Pulling from Jaccob's control she forced her horse forward and ran past the men ahead of her. When she reached the edge of the woods near her house she could see the skeletal remains of what once was her home. Burned, charred and crumbling. Not a stone let unmarked. The only thing that remained standing was the fireplace on the first floor. All else had collapsed.
Dismounting she made her way to the rubble. Just as she got to the edge where her porch once stood someone grabbed her shoulder to stop her.
"Nay , my child. Tis not safe to go inside that ruin." The look on the man's face was somber but she paid him no attention. Shrugging off his hand she made her way into the edge of the debris. There was nothing left.
Jaccob rode up and jumped from his horse. Walking up behind the girl he knew that all was lost here. But he had to know one thing. Where was the staff?

Taking Aletta by the shoulder and pressing lightly she turned to face him. Tears streaked her face as she looked into his eyes. The disbelief was wanning on her and she was near collapse.
"Aletta my dear child. This seems not the right time to ask this of you but i must......Where did you leave the staff?"
Looking into her uncle's eyes she almost slapped him.How could he ask such a question at this time. Her home. All her possessions. Gone. How could anything else be of importance. Then she snapped her head to attention. Crimson and the others. Where were they.
"Oh uncle. Where is Crimson? They were to wait for us here. Surely they would of left word if they were leaving.....They would not of left without some sort of warning."
Catching Aletta in his arms he hugged her tightly. From the many years of being with the girls aboard ship he knew that they were alright. His faith in them was stronger than ever and with all hopes they were far away.
"Fear not my dear. I have the utmost faith in your cousins. There is no way they were caught up in this. They knew ahead of time someway and got out safely...I am sure of it."
Turning she looked again at the rubble at her feet. All was lost. Each precious bauble she had collected. All the trinkets that the girls had brought her over the years. Memories evaded her mind so swiftly she almost couldnt think straight. All the good times they had in this house. It was like losing a family member itself.
Aletta took a deep breath and straightened her shoulders. Picking up a long even stick from the trash she started poking and prodding her way through the wreckage. Jaccob followed close behind her. When they reached what was once the back side of the house she began shoving debris from the area. Finally clearing out a small spot she knelt and began digging around a stone tile on the flooring. Once she loosened the tile she lifted it up revealing a space beneath the floor.
Jaccob stood over her and watch. With no rooftop to block it out the moon shone full and bright. Lighting the once cheery room and allowing Aletta to complete her task. With a bit of work she pulled a blanketed object from under the floor. Standing and turning to her uncle she stretched out her arms and gave it to him. The look on his face was of total shock. The dear sweet girl had hidden it well. Still not knowing the power of this staff she still made sure it wouldnt be found. Smiling at her now he knew this one had as much potential as all the others. In her own right she was just as formidable as the rest.
Pride welled up in Jaccob as he circeled her shoulder with one arm and clutched the bundle with the other. Leading her out of the remains and back to her horse they mounted up to ride off.
Once again they had been thwarted by this enemy and once again they needed to seek out refuge to regroup. Riding back to the road to join the others he thought deeply on where they would of gone. He knew that Crimson once lived in the mountains of Wind but she had long since moved away from there.
Polgara had taken up residence near the mountains of the Compassion Desert but he wasnt for sure she still lived there. Vagabonds the lot of them. Bella had a house on the coastline across from Cove but had since turned it over to a friend of hers Aveindha since she now resided on the Black Rose. The only other that had any housing was that of Scarlett, but with her dark past and involvement with the Shadowlords he wasnt sure where she was living now. He knew for certain it was through the gates to the darker side of the realm. He never did understand why anyone would want to live in such a place. The evil and corruption there was more than most could stand but she seemed to thrive on it.
When they reached the gate Thranos and the others stood in wait. He seemed to understand the looks on Jaccob and Aletta's face. The rider who had came to them at first relayed what he had seen and there was no more to say about it. Jaccob came closer to Thranos and they sidled off to one side to talk a bit. But Aletta could feel the illwinds picking up from the south. She knew they couldnt stay there too long. Something was heading their way and it didnt seem to be anything good.

Stepping through the gate once more was becoming quite difficult for Aletta. She was growing weary of the gate travel and wished they could just travel by normal means. But with not so normal forces on their trail it seemed a foolish thing to wish for.
Stepping through the other side she felt a thickness in the air and a smell that was not pleasant at all. The only thing that was distinctive to her was the scent of the ocean breeze wafting through the trees. As the group approached the road she noticed that things seemed a bit similar to the other side where her house used to be. Strange how these portals can be mirrors to a point of each world. She would prefer her side of the fence anyday though.
Headiing up the road the smaller buildings on the edge of the city were very much familiar. This was definitely Britain but on the darker side. They crossed the bridge and headed towards this sides version of the Cat's Lair. Standing off to the shadows the group waited as Jaccob went inside.

*Sits in awwww* wow Rose thats good!

Moments later Jaccob came from the tavern and joined up with the group. The look on his face was of disgust and weariness. Apparently the news he had hoped to get from the patrons wasn't all he was expecting. Aletta moved her horse towards her uncle and stopped by him touching him lightly on the shoulder.
"Tis alright girl. I was just hoping to get more information than what I have.
Those blathering idiots in there couldn't find their way out of the Trinsic swamps with a guide or a map."
The humor in his comment sent a thrilling chill through her body. She always loved hearing her uncle say little things like that when she was growing up and it still gave her the same feeling even now. Patting her uncle on the shoulder once again she nudged her horse to move on.
"So uncle did you find anything out at all or are we to be trapsing all over this god forsaken land looking for the girls. I don't mind telling you that this side of the world makes me a bit edgy. There seems to be a dark forboding here and I don't lilke it."
"Aye my sweet. It is a bit darker than you are used to but this is where your cousin lives and thats where we need to be heading. There is one more tavern here in town I wish to check out and then we will decide what to do next. Although it doesnt seem like it there are royal guards here and we are relatively safe."
Relatively. That was becoming a word that Aletta was getting tired of hearing. Nothing in the last few weeks has been relative to her. Weariness and fear was becoming the normal attitude around her and it wasn't making her feel any better with Jaccob not sounding sure of himself. She just wished deeply they could get with the girls and get this whole thing overwith.

The sun breached the canopy of green and streamed througout the windows of the house. Many times Scarlett had seen this happen but today it felt glorious. Her family , shy two members was under one roof and seemingly safe for now. Never in her wildest dreams would she think the things that have happened would come as they have. They all had had many adventures in the past and had safely gone their seperate ways. But this was altogether different. It wasnt right at all and not knowing all of the specifics made her edgy.
Walking softly through the house she noticed that they were all still sleeping. Crimson had even found a soft bed to crawl into and took rest she was sorely needing. As she looked about at her family she noticed that one person was missing. Jack. Somewhere in the night or wee hours of the morning he had slipped out. Thinking to herself she knew that Bella would be angry over this. But then again it might not be too much of a surprise as they often came and went from each other. That was the crux of that crazy relationship.
Moving through to the outer balcony she began gathering things to try and put together a meal for her girls. They would be needing nourishment and it was time they all sat down to have a talk about what they were going to do next.
Looking out over the small fort infront of her house she gazed down the road. Off in the distance she could hear movement but it was still too faint to ascertain what it was. Hopefully it was good news. She wasnt quite ready for anything bad...yet.

As the intrepid group from Luna moved closer through the forest the sun was clearing the near mountains. Through the trees in the distance many rooftops could be seen. To Aletta it seemed like they were heading towards a city of some type. But if this side of the moongate was a mirror of the other she knew there was no city or town here. She had often heard of guilds building their own villages. Perhaps this was one of them. Not knowing much about this side of the world she had no ideas. As they passed a few homes and came around the bend in the road she saw a small fort-like structure right on the road. There were a few people standing about but they made no movement as if concerned for the their approach.
Standing at the edge of the fort entrance a dark cloaked figure gave a shrill whistle and immediately there were horseman coming through the woods. Aletta was suprised at the response.
"Uncle...did they know we were coming? Or do they keep horses at the ready all the time."
Looking sleepily at his niece he only smiled. Several of the men around them chuckled as they knew any good warrior was always at the ready.
By the time they reached the fort they were quite surrounded and from the back of the fort a tall regal looking man came forward. Dressed in white it was an odd sight to see. For here in this darkness and drab surroundings he indeed looked out of place.
Jaccob slid from his horse and approached the white knight. Both nodding a greeting and grasping arms in hello they both smiled at each other . Jaccob turned towards Aletta and motioned for her to approach. As she slid from her mount she noticed that the rest of their company was being led off to other areas of the village. Apparently they were to be given comforts by the inhabitants. That was also another surprising event to Aletta. Thinking this was such a terrible land to be in and then to be confronted with such hospitality amazed her.
When she reached Jaccob's side she glanced up from under her hood and looked at the man dressed in white. His features were chiseled like that of a grand statue. His white hair flowed about his cloak and there seemed to be a light that radiated around him..although Aletta knew it was only her imagination. But this man was grand in all manner and very very handsome. Not knowing any better but showing respect for this man she graciously curtsied and the man before her chuckled. Reaching out he tipped her face towards him and smiled brightly. He seemed somehow to know who she was and his gesture made her feel safe and comfortable for the first time in days.

"Master Jaccob...you have arrived at last. Lady Crimson will be most pleased."
The comment sent a thrill through Aletta's mind and soul. They were safe at last. The worry over the past few days had taken a tole on her and she was weary with fear for her family. Looking past the man speaking she didnt seem to hear anymore of what he said to Jaccob. She looked further past and on the second story balcony of the house behind the guard shack she saw a familiar face.
Bolting from her uncle she ran towards the house and yelled at the top of her lungs.
"CRIMSON.....CRIMSON..."
Running and waving her arms wildly the men around the shack laughed out loud at the sight. The young girl amused them but made them feel at peace at such behavior. The grim realities surrounding them made them quite stoic at times so this brief happiness in the young girl was welcomed.
Looking down over the guard shack Crimson saw someone running towards the house..and then she heard that small voice yelling up at her. Seeing who it was made Crimson bolt through the door and down the stairs to the outside. The others inside looked at her strangely as she ran past ..but no one offered to ask her what was wrong. They simply stood and followed her outdoors.
As Aletta reached the stairs she was greeted with open arms of her cousin. As they stood hugging and crying in each others arms the rest of the family came into view. No questions were asked of each other just huggs and laughter. When Polgara and Katrina reached the door they stood in amazement looking at their sister. Tears welled in Pol's eyes and the hugging proceeded again. After a time they retreated into the house and settle Aletta into a comfortable chair by the fire. Her shaking wasnt from the cold but from the excitement of being with her family..but she wasnt going to spoil the attention.
As she began to tell them of her adventure to Luna and the things she had seen the others began to fall silent and a bit withdrawn. Bella retreated to lean on the fireplace grabbing the poker and stirring the fire. Katrina went back to the cot and lay back down to rest but kept her face turned towards them listening to Aletta talking. Pol sat on the floor at Aletta's feet and lay her head in the girl's lap. Crimson sat next to her and held her hand while Scarlett walked the room anxiously. After a few moments she looked about the room. Something wasnt right and she would soon be at the bottom of it. She hadnt yet told them about the staff so she felt she would wait for Jaccob to come.
Silence filled the room and it settled in closely. Pol jumped up from the floor and began scurring around to make a meal for her sister. That seemed to bolster the spirits of the others as they too joined in at making her more comfortable. Bella and Scarlett went to draw a bath for her and Crimson went to find clean clothes. This behavior was not like them at all. Or at least not for many years. They were acting the same way they did after one of their sea adventures. Hopefully she thought that wasnt what was going on.

Cool waft of forest scented air made its way through as the men came inside and closed the door behind them. There infront of her stood the man she had seen when she first arrived. His welcoming smile and the jovial glint in his eyes made her more at ease. There were two with him that she did not recognize. Then the familiar face of Jaccob came into her view as he moved around the others to come near her.
There was a bit of relief felt in the room when Jaccob pulled off his cloak and tossed it over the nearest chair. He never was one to be modest and full of grace but for some reason his action had a different tone to it. Crimson felt that there was something very different about Old Jaccob and before she could try to figure it out Aletta approached Jaccob and hugged him tightly.
Pulling him by the arm she motioned for Jaccob and the others to take seats near the fire so that things could be discussed with the other girls. Aletta shuffled off to the other room for a few moments as the men settled and prepared themselves to talk about the upcoming events that were about to take place.
As Aletta was moving about in the kitchen area the other girls joined her and stood watching as she worked. All with confused looks on their faces as they had no idea what Jaccob was doing with such men as he had in his attendance.
"Aletta. I think we need to have a talk, dear."
The others nodded in agreement and then waited for Pol to continue.
"Polly. For once in your life can you not just trust someone. I have every confidence that you will know what is going on and it will be in a matter of minutes. I wish to feed Uncle Jaccob as he hasnt eaten in quite a while and you know he gets cranky if he is hungry. As for the others its only fitting and respectful to offer them refreshment as well. Especially Master Aidan who has graciously allowed us to invade his territory." With that being said she continued on at preparing a tray for service.
Once again the others were taken aback by Aletta's assertiveness. And once again the same ones giggled about it. Crimson and Pol were at a loss of words once again and only stood and watched as the girl continued her work.
Crimson thought back to all the times in the past when Aletta was always there at the ready with a hot pot of tea or a meal fit for any wayward traveler. That was how she always treated the girls whenever they came to port or happened across her doorstep. The memories seemed to lighten Crimson's spirit and she turned to go back to the front room where the men were waiting.

Sitting back comfortably in the chairs provided Thanos, Aidan and Jaccob were quiet. Waiting for the oportune time to talk to the girls. Aletta entered the room right behind Crimson and placed the tray of food and drink infront of them. Cautiously she sat down across from Jaccob and looked hard into his face. He had changed somehow since their last meeting at his woodcutters cottage. but she couldnt determine what kind of change is was.
Aletta sat on the floor next to Jaccob and lay her head against his leg. It was a strange thing for Crimson to see this in her cousin. She really had no idea what had transpired between those two during her absence. But the almost fatherly touch he bestowed on Aletta's head stabbed at her own heart. Strange that such feelings would suddenly hit her so.
After a few moments Thanos cleared his throat making it known to all that time for the discussion was at hand. And with a wave of his hand Jaccob summoned the other girls into the room since they had been standing in the doorway the whole time anyways. He laughed a bit to himself that even though the girls were much older and seasoned in their own vocations they were still young spindly legged girls grappling up and down the mast poles of ships and acting more like boys than they should. His memories were vivid of them back then. Spending a great deal of time with them aboard the Black Rose.
Once the others had found a place to sit or stand as Scarlett always preferred they prepared themselves to listen to what these men had to say. As usual Polgara was indifferent to anything said and remained in the background somewhat. She was never fond of Jaccob as the others were and it was obvious from there previous encounters in the Skara woods. Funny how Crimson never paid mind to it then but now it seemed strange to her. She looked around at the assembly and suddenly had a forboding feeling hit her. There was to be bad news coming and she wasnt at all sure she was ready to hear it.

The friction in the room could be felt by all. To Thanos he knew there was a great tension now btween these girls and Jaccob. Although he had known Jaccob for many years it was later in their lives, so he didnt know a great deal about Jaccob's past. He was about to find out if instinct served him correctly.
Standing in the background Polgara stared at Jaccob. She remembered him from his years on the BlackRose. Cooking, mending and generally taking care of them all. But there was always an underlying resentment she had for him. Although she learned most of what she knows from him she still fel t uncomfortable around him and he always seemed to know it. Whether he did or not was of no concern to her.
Jaccob leared his throat and took a dip swallow from his cup. The tea was strong just as he liked it. Peering over the rim of the cup he gazed about the room at all around him. This was going to be the hardest confrontation he would have to make in his life.
"Pleasant home you have her Scarlett. Seems the times have been good to you?"
"Yes......Yes, Jaccob they have. And thank you for noticing?" There was a hint of annoyance in her voice which the other girls picked up on instantly. They all knew that Scarlett was not one to mince words and was the one most likely to call someone out if the time demanded it.
Adjusting herself against the edge of the fireplace Bella crossed her arms over her chest and leaned into the warm rocks. Intently looking at Jaccob she let out a sigh which drew manys attention to her.
"Jaccob. You have stalled long enough. Tell us waht the hell is going on Old Man. If you do indeed know anything at all?"
Taking another sip from his tea he then leaned forward an dsat the cup down. Sitting on the edge of his chair now he fumbled with his hands and let out a long breath.
"Right...Right you are Bella my dear."
Crimson thought to herself. Finally and about time the old badger was going to get down to business.

Adjusting his robes abit Jaccob stood and folded his hands infront of him. Telling the entire truth was going to cause quite a stir in this house and many unknown feelings were going to come into play. But he knew it had to be done. For all their sakes.
"Well. As you know there is a dark force at work here. And it all seems to be directed at you girls. I wasn't completely aware of how far or deep this force had grown until just the last few days. Now knowing what I do know it is imperative that we work together to overcome this evil."
Taking in a deep breath Crimson stood and walked towards Jaccob. Standing infront of him she looked deep into his eyes. There was something there she had never seen before. Fear and a great sadness. The twinkle of mischief was gone.
"Jaccob....Whatever it is you must tell us. We know there is something out there after us. Hell we almost lost Pol and Katie over it all. And Bella herself was almost taken from us..and you know that is no easy feat in itself."
"Yes, Crimson I know this. But at the time I had no idea what or who we were dealing with. Now I do know and I am not sure if you all are up to this huge deadly task. It could very well mean the end to one, a few or all our lives. Are you ready to do that Crimson?"
Jaccob looked straight into her face and saw no fear. All he saw was great anger and mistrust. To see this in her face and in her eyes saddened Jaccob greatly. This was the day he had dreaded for many years.

Staring into Crimson's eyes Jaccob cleared his throat again and took a deep breath. The reaction of all the girls was something he didnt want to see as he knew each one for their power and temper. It would fall upon him greatly when all the truth was revealed to them. Aletta, dear one that she is knew a little about the truth but not all of it. She knew of the staff and about her uncle but not enough to really base an opinion on what Jaccob was about to reveal. How would she take it he wasnt sure. She and Katrina were the most gentle of them all. Mainly because of their ages but because of the paths they had chosen. Katrina was the youngest of them all and he didnt know that much about her. All he knew was that she strived to follow in Bella's footsteps and that bothered Jaccob greatly. For the most part Bella was a good hearted soul but had a viscious nature to her. He really didnt want this for Katie.
Snapping back to reality he looked about from the corner of his eye and saw that all faces were intently staring at him. The moment had come and he had to face it all.
"Many years ago my brother and I were quite close. We fought side by side and did just about everything together. Always the stronger of us my brother was the brawn and i was the brains to anything we ever did. Not saying I was weak physically but he was much much more stronger than I. He was not stupid himself either...he was a very intelligent man but he drew that from experience not by using other techniques as I learned to do."
The girls continued to watch Jaccob as he began to walk about the circle of chairs where most were seated. Pol continued to stand off from them all and Crimson took a seat by the hearth and began staring at the fire.
"Once our father passed away by brother and I began to drift apart. His ideals of things began to change from mine and when Polgira passed away his mind seemed to drift to other things...evil things. It drove him mad."
At the mention of her mother's name Polgara stood straight and approached the old man. She looked at him with fury in her eyes but knew that what Jaccob was saying was true. She had seen her father wail and scream to the heavens many a night after her mother passed away. She knew the heartache he felt.
"Yes, Polgara. I am your uncle. When your father disappeared shortly after your mother died I took it upon myself to take you girls in and raise you the best i could. It was not an easy task. You were older than ALetta and Katie but it was still hard . You yourself were most difficult at times and I have noticed that the years have not changed you much. You can still be quite difficult."
Small smiles crossed a few of their lips at his tone and what he said. Pol was not amused. And it seemed that Crimson was not amused eitehr.
"After a few years you girls decided to go out and begin your lives so I stood back and watched. Waited. And then as you know ended up aboard your ship to lend a hand. By then you didnt remember who I was. Even Pol forgot. I guess changing my appearance the way I did let me be amongst you so that I could better keep a watch on you. That was the only way I could help teach and guide you all in what you wanted to do. I was and am proud of everyone of you for the things you have done over the years. And yes Bella even you. "
Again small chuckles of laughter emerged from the group. Aidan and Thranos sat back sipping their tea and listening. Both knew pretty much of what Jaccob was saying and they also knew they were seeing another side of this old man they never knew before as well.
"One day I left the BlackRose at the docks of Britain. I had gone ashore to gather some things I needed for our next voyage and had heard some rumors that my brother had been sighted and was searching for me. So I sent a message to you all that I would return to you as soon as I could. I never knew that it would be quite some time before I could return. Searching out my brother was a harsh and dangerous journey and when I found him it was not what I had expected."
Turning his back to them his shoulders slumped a bit as if disappointment had settled in on him. He stood there for a few moments before he began to speak again. All the while the girls kept their eyes focussed on him.

Gaining his composure Jaccob continued talking. His voice had changed and became broken and sounded full of tears.
"When i found my brother he had fallen in with some of the most vilest creatures known to the region. He had become one of them. Physically and mentally. The evil surrounded him like a shroud and just his voice spewed out evil. I cringe now just thinking about the things he said to me. Demanding that i turn over his daughter's to him so he could bring them up in this new found world of his. He wanted desperately to turn you three girls into evil minions of his and his Lord. When I refused he said there was nothign i could do to stop him."
Turning back around and facing the girls they could see the pain in his face. They then realized that Jaccob had gone against his own brother to protect them.
"I did what I had to do. Or at least what I thought I had to do. My brother and I fought. We fought long and hard with each other and for me it was the worst thing I had ever done. He had grown stronger in many ways...but so had I. The years before I had joined you on the BlackRose I had trained with my friend Thanos here and learned many many things. I learned how to weild a sword and use magic at the same time. Little did I know that my brother had learned a few things as well. Where my magic was of the "good " nature his was from evil. I do believe Pol you call it Necromancy. Which I know you have dabbled in from time to time. But my brother had become a full fledged Necromage and with the added power of his sword made him even more dangerous."
Polgara cringed at the thought of someone using necromancy. She knew all too well that all that sort of magic mainly dealt with the dead. She had spent some time learning this skill and after some time decided it was not to her liking and gave it up. Dealing with the dead and undead was not to her liking. So she switched her craft back to regular magic and the newer earth magic known as Spellweaving.
"My brother and I fought for what seemed like weeks. But it was really only a few days. Neither of us giving up and neither of us giving in. This was truly goign to be a fight to the death. Upon the last day of our battle I felt surged with great energy . Where it came from I will never know but it was enough to give me the advantage and overcome my brother. I smote him down and left him lying on the charred ground in a pool of his own black blood. His minions around us fled in fear and with what strength I had left I made my way back to Luna."
Thanos fidgeted in his seat for a moment and then spoke clearly and plainly.
"That is where I took Jaccob in hand and healed his many wounds. Well the many physical wounds he sustained. The mental and emotional wounds were his to deal with. I tried my best to give him as much council as I could. After he had regained strength and was able to stand on his own again he left my company and rejoined you girls on the BlackRose."
Staring at Thanos they all looked at him with thankful eyes. They seemed to appreciate the fact that he offered Jaccob comfort when they could not.
Crimson rose from her seat and crossed the room. Laying a hand on Jaccob's shoulder she could feel him tense. She knew then there was more to this story and she needed to prepare herself for the rest.

Dropping her hand to her side Crimson turned to the others. She knew they had many questions but the look she gave them told them to save it for later.
"Please Jaccob. Continue. We have to hear the rest of your story and what this all has to do with us now."
"Yes my dear you do. As I have revealed to you my brother was Polgara, Aletta and Katrina's father. And by my hand and my hand alone I took his life to protect them. For this I will forever be heart broken. But my most deepest regret and heartbreak is that I have not been honest with my own children."
Heads came up and all focused on what Jaccob was saying and about to say. Looking back and forth to the three crimson headed females in the room he could no longer keep his secret.
" I was once and forever married to Ebony Rose...your mother."
Bella jumped from the wall and it was all Polgara could do to keep her from reaching Jaccob. Scarlett bowed her head and shook it as if she had known all along and Crimson stood there staring in disbelief.
" I know this is a great shock to you but it was your mother's decision not to revea who I was to you. When you were babes still in swaddling I had gone away many times adventuring. Each time I returned there seemed to be a new babe that arrived. Finally the last time I returned home was when Bella had been born. Your mother bade me to stay forever or to forever leave. She cuold not take the rambling I had done over the years. So at her request I packed my bags and left for good. I was too young in my mind's thinking to settle down and become whatever it was she thought I should be."
Stepping around Crimson Jaccob walked to his chair and slumped into it harshly. He seemed so old and tired now and he loooked as though he would just fall into a deep sleep. After a moment of absolute silence he raised his head and tears fell from his eyes.
"When I got word that your mother had died and you girls had set off to find your ways in the world I knew i had to find you all and be with you. I had left Ebony with too much burden and was too reckless to realize it. There she was raising 6 young girls on her own. Mine and those of my brother's. It was wrong of me to do such but did not know that then. Thats when I found you and signed on to work on the BlackRose. After many years of teaching and helping I felt it was the only way I could be close to you all and keep you safe. Then the time came when I fought my brother and I truly felt you all were safe. Thats when I moved on and let you live your lives. But trust in this there's not one moment I didnt know what you were doing or where you were at. I had my own ways of keeping track of you all."
The air in the room was full of emotions. Like tinder to the flame. It would only take one spark and the whole house would go up in smoke. Thats when the front door burst open and the cool night air drifted in. All heads turned to the open door and as the mist died down there was a lone figure standing in the doorway.

The figure moved in slowly shaking off the rain from its cloak. As soon as the light hit the figure jsut right they all saw there was no threat and breathed out a sigh of relief. Shaking his shaggy black hair about he dropped his cloak at the doorstop and closed the door to the winds.
"Aye. Mighty fine night it is outside. Cold as the backside of a witch and windy as any norther I ever did see." The looks that he recieved were more than he had expected and he was almost ready to turn tail and run for the door.
"Dirk. You have the most exasperating way of making an entrance I have ever seen of a man. Go to the kitchen and fix yourself something to eat and dry off....We still have business to talk over here."
" Well well a fine how do you do. And me with a bit of news meself. Guess I can wait til you wrap up your talks to give you my news. Just hope it dont take too long. Those black hooded blokes arent that easy to shake off you know."
As Dirk started towards the kitchen he was grabbed by both arms and ushered to the fireplace to warm himself and if it werent for his escorts being Aidan and Thanos he would of put up a bit of a fight. He knew those two men were as strong as he was and he was just too tired to fight right now.
"Quickly as you can Dirk...tell us what you saw?" Jaccob was with out hestitation in his asking.
"Now now Jaccob. I need me a drink real quick . I been riding for a day and a half non stop and I need me some drink."
"Blast you fool...tell me what you saw or there wont be time for you to even think of drinking and luxuries you are accustom to."
"Alright old man alright. Those hooded figures that have been following and tracking these Fine lovely ladies have been ransacking every town from Skara Brae to Minoc. The entire eastern side of Britain is in flames and its all the Royal guard can do to keep down the panic. They have even called on the Brethren of Luna to aid them. Last I saw them as I was heading south of of east Britain they were taking the northern pass towards Despise and checking old residences of the ladies. Seems they know exactly where all the girls lived at one time or another and they are hitting every location....I even heard one say they were heading to Wind and checking the caverns there as well."
They all looked around at each other. If these hooded ones knew where the girls were all once living it would be only a matter of time before they would indeed catch up with them. Running to Jaccob's side Aletta knew what would happen if they were found here.
"Take care Aletta I know what you are thinking. But we do have the upper hand. Since Scarlett is so well known for her secrecy its highly unlikely they will find us here so soon. We do have time to make plans. I think the best thing for us to do right now is get some rest and we can set forth our strategy in the morning."
"You rest if you want to old man but I for one wont be resting. I have been sitting about here like a scared jack rabbit long enough. I will not sit by and let them sneak up on me again. And I think you really need to tell us the rest of this sorded story before we go any further."
The bitterness in Scarlett's voice set Jaccob back a bit. But shaking his head in approval he motioned for them all to take a seat so he could continue on with what he still knew.

After all the time that had passed over the years this would be far the worst thing that Jaccob had to do. To tell the girls the truth was not going to be easy. He hadnt even told Aletta the absolute truth when they were at her burned out home and had retrieved the staff. She only knew that Jaccob was indeed an uncle but nothing else to the extent of his relationship to her or the other girls.
Looking into the faces of these beautiful, strong women he was even more afraid of them that what was waiting out there for them. As they stood about half prepared for the battle that raced towards them he knew he had to at last tell them the whole truth.

Looking around the room Jaccob took in a deep breath. He looked at each one of the girls trying to predict how they would react to his confession. No reaction would be good that was for certain. All the years of hiding the truth had finally came to an end and he knew he would have to tell it.
He looked at Crimson and her eyes. She was aged far more than her years just because she had the gumption to take all the troubles unto herself. For this he felt a huge amount of guilt. He had been with them off and on for many years but she alone had kept them all together. For that he was most proud of her. The others had their own ways about them and he was that much proud of them as well...but his heart would always be stronger and then again more fragile towards Crimson.
Sitting up a bit straighter in his chair he looked downward towards the floor and cleared his throat.
" For many years I have traveled off and on with you girls. For many years I have watched you grow into the women you are today. I am proud of all of you for the things you have done...and even for some of the bad things you have done I have been proud. But what i have done to you in the past I am not proud. There have been many lies swept beneath the brambles to protect you but now I see that was not the right thing for me to do."
Questioning eyes stared back at him. Aletta knew a bit of what he spoke but she was still confused about some things that he had never spoke. He could feel the tension building in the room from all there and knew he needed to say it all.
"For all these years you have called me Uncle. For the most part that is true. I am uncle to some of you..but not to others. I made promises al though from afar that i would watch out for you and for the most part I have done so. I stayed away when i felt it was safe to and when you all went in different directions I felt that I had done well with you and you would be safe. Never did i expect the things that have come to pass to happen."
The girls looked about at each other. They knew they were all related but to what extent they really didnt know. Of course the sisters knew they were sisters..but they had no idea what closeness there was with the others.
"I am uncle yes to Pol, Aletta and Katrina. Infact I am as close to father as I could be. My brother was once married as I was to twin sisters. So that makes you girls double cousins. As close to sisters as you can get...."
He stopped for a moment to let what he had said sink in and it was Scarlet who put the words together.
"Are you telling us Old man that you are our father?" There was no cheer in her voice but there was no real anger either.
"Yes my dear. I am your father. Father to you , Crimson and Bella."
There was an eery silence in the room and then a log in the fireplace fell out of place and made everyone jump in their seats.
Bella would had been standing by the fireplace slide to the floor in shock. Shaking her head in disbelief. Scarlet cursed under her breath and walked to the other side of the room. Cimson only stood in place and stared at Jaccob as if he werent even there.
"There are many reasons I didnt tell you who i was when you were growing up..mainly because of the shame i bore for things that had happened. I wasnt there when the f amily needed me and for that I am sorry. Your mothers made me leave our homes and never come back...their grief was that strong. So i left and never turned back until i heard news that both Ebony and Roselyn were both gone. Then i came back to care for you girls best i knew how."
"My sins kept me from ever telling the truth...but now i have to."
Looking at Pol and then at the other two young ones was a hard task to bear.
"The reason your father was never about was of my doing. He had been misled by evil forces and had changed his ways that were not of our beliefs. He had decided that this new way of life was what he wanted...wanted more than his wife, children and family. In doing so he tried to take a family heirloom that was supposed to of been filled with great power. Although i knew it wasnt it was up to me to keep it from him. So one night he tried to take the staff from me and within this fight I killed my own brother."
The girls looked at Jaccob and could see the pain he had held in for so long. They still felt anger towards him but they understood what he was telling them. Their mothers had instilled in them a certain belief that had been with the family for generations. They knew what it must of meant for Jaccob to do what he did.
"I buried the staff in our village and thought it was safe there. But with my brother being gone then I never thought about the staff again. Until all this trouble with you girls started. Once I put all the pieces together i realized what was happening. Someone is looking for the staff. Someone still believes the staff is of great power and they are searching anyway and everywhere they can to retrieve it."
Aletta stood and left the room only to come back a few moments later with a huge blanket wrapped object. She lay in on the floor infront of them all and unwrapped it gently. When she pulled back the last of the wrapping all could see what looked to be an ornately carved staff. The pommel of it was that of a dragon head and down the shaft were carvings of runes and such. No gems or gold but just ordinary wood. When the girls drew closer they noticed that the staff began to change. The color grew lighter and when the last of the girls came close it turned almost white. There was a faint glow to it. Kneeling down as they surrounded the staff there was a light hum in the air as well. Jaccob looked at the staff in shock. Never had he seen this reaction to the staff...even when his father held it for many years. It was true. The staff was filled with some great power.