#walk in two worlds

[awakeningofthedeath]

Hellen’s History in “Walk in Two Worlds” and sneak peek

Hello followers and fans! @jeweledfaith speaking. In celebration of now 70 watchers, I’m giving you all a fun fact about Jack’s darling Hellen and how she’d come to be.

When I was writing my oldest fanfic “Walk in Two Worlds ( @acroguewalkingintwoworlds ) back last year (2016), I wanted to create a fun side story to give the readers an unexpected breather from one story to the other. So I created Hellen as a side character for Chapter 8. After looking over it, and getting to know @babelast a month after that, and talking about future character development for Jack the Ripper/Lad.

More to the point, the reception for that brief story bit was well received and were curious to know more this woman. And after spending a lot of time developing this character, I’m proud to say she’s anything but a side character thanks to @babelast and to you all.

And as an exclusive for only you guys, heres Hellen’s second snibbit for the memory sequence in the upcoming @acroguewalkingintwoworlds chapter, which will be minor spoilers for Hellen’s main origin story. And if you’re an AC: Rogue fan, then I encourage you guys to read the novel while its in progress.

@jeweledfaith

The smell of cooked beans and burnt game filtered the air. Hellen was begging in her mind to have a whiskey now more then ever, as one of Jame’s men stitched the wound from her arm.

“From the maps I read, this creek, Brushy Creek comes from the Missouri river. So you should be safer riding along upstream.” Hellen turned her horse as Frank pointed the other boys the direction of the creek. “Hold on.”  Hellen turned in her saddle, and Jesse threw a flask and a small leather purse from his saddle bag towards Hellen. She caught it, and looked to see a sum of cash, and opened the flask to smell the rich wooden smell of whiskey. “I know it’s not Irish tradition, but Kansas City can make the finest.” James tipped his hat towards her. “Consider this even, for ridding our trail from those men.” “Here here.” Hellen replied before taking a shot’s worth down her throat. ��

“Jesse, I know you have a family to look after, but you need to flee Kansas City. With you coming out of “retirement”, they will follow every suspicion leading to you and Frank’s family. “Hmm.” Jesse rubbed his chin in thought. “Saint Joseph would be the closet to train routes. Better consider that before my little ones question their daddy more.” “Come to think of it, ain’t you suppose to be keeping an eye on those gals of yours up in Montana?” Frank asked, eating a chunk of deer liver. Hellen shook her head and smiled, “Maggie could handle the Dusty Rose just fine.” Some of the men chuckled and one of them with a thick southern accent commented, “Sure right y’all. Considering how the “Virgin Madame” can go in and out without men missing her. You know how much money men would pay for ya.” “Oh sure, a skinny little undercover assassin with two missing fingers and a temper of a bobcat, that also takes in being a madame and a bounty hunter is worth getting money for.

“Hellen.” Frank called out. “Keep an eye over your shoulder. They say that this, McGriffin is in for your head.” Hellen shook her head, understanding what Frank was talking about. “That bastard will have to catch me first. But thanks.” Hellen spurred her stallion around as she headed south towards the settlement of Kearney.

[acrouge-walkintwoworlds]

Walking in Two Worlds: An AC Rogue Fic “Chapter 7″

Walking along the streets, Katie and Shay watched the people passing as they walked toward Katie’s home. A crowd was just admiring the reconstruction of the catholic church, the one Katie and her family attend mostly. Katie gave a smile that seemed to had made Shay feel proud of himself for aiding the congregation, even though he himself would go on and off at the services. Shay only remembered being in a church when his Aunt Eliza had taken him from time to time, the oldest memories were the magic lantern that the father would show to the children. The thought one again turned his attention back to the thought of Liam. He oftener wondered about him, and the grief that he must be going through.

“Cassidy mentioned that you helped funded this with Monro.” Shay’s thoughts were interrupted as Katie spoke. “After the way those gangs terrorized this street, the Corneal reckoned we give the people hope.” “I have to admit Shay, you really helped turned things around here for this district.” Katie said, preforming a crucifix on her chest as they passed the front entrance. “Well it’s is only a building Katie.” “This is more then just “only a building” Shay. A church can only just be a symbol of strength and hope for the community, but a place to connect with all things sacred. This building had been crucified by the street gangs as many times as I walked by Broadway. People were in fear constantly for the past four years. Most of the elders feared one day they would burn everyone alive while a mass goes on.” Shay smirked, “I’m surprised that the king wouldn’t provide extra protection.” Katie rubbed her temple with the base of her palm,”Perhaps all the soldiers are fighting the french in the New France mostly. I still can’t grasp why we needed to fight them, or why fight at all?” Of course Katie was secretly in the side of the French, but she needed to be on her guard since Shay seems to be on the British side of the fence now.  

***

As they approached the Finnegan’s home, Katie excused herself to go inside to hand the basket to Cassidy. “Oh, am I suddenly not welcomed in?” Shay asked playfully. Katie laughed quietly as she turned to look at Shay. “Of course you are, but Cassidy would be begging for you to stay and she’ll never let us out.” “I of all people should of known, your aunt kept me cooped in that room for too long for my taste.” Shay scratched the white scar over his eye, it had healed beautifully over the course of the few months. Still it itched the hell out of him. “Well you wait here then, I’ll be out hopefully before the sun sets.” Katie turned on her heels and headed inside. Shay felt beyond foolish not to notice the dress she was wearing until now. Any man would stop to see the woman in a red dress that seemed to be well made as it was literary sewn on her body, complementing each shape and curve of her body. It was a nice change to see her in something nice, not that she wasn't pretty in her other dresses; but the Finnegan’s and Katie deserve somethings nice for all the’ve done. The only thing Shay wished for was that Katie’s hair would not be confined to a bun.

***

“I won’t be gone long, Uncle Barry, Shay just wants me to see his ship.” Barry had been asking Katie a wagon full of questions the moment she informed him and Cassidy about Shay’s offer. Will he accompany you? Will there be other men? Will he stay for dinner? Katie insured her protective uncle that Shay will never leave her side in order to show her the Morrigan. “All I’m saying is that men get rather suspicious and unbearable when a woman is upon a ship.” Barry was chopping the meat with such force as he spoke in protest. Cassidy was chopping vegetables next to Katie as she said, “Your uncle has a point Katie. Remember what happened to you when you tried getting on a ship?” Katie rolled her eyes, “When I was a little girl. Look, normally I wouldn't go unless I’m on one of Pierce’s ships, but Shay will be with me. He did rescued me and you two from those gangs. I’m surprised that you are now unsure of Shay of all men!” Barry placed both hands on his hips, looked down and nodded. “Aye, that lad is the only man I would allow anywhere near one of my favorite lasses in this world. Just be sure, that he wouldn’t f…” “Barry!” Cassidy warned a hard tone to her husband. She turned to Katie, “Just be aware Katie, we never know what Shay is capable of now he is fully recovered.” “I’m always careful with any man Cassidy.” Katie said, kissing both her aunt and uncle’s cheeks. “I’ll try to be back soon.” “We’ll just save you a plate Katie.” Cassidy said. Before Katie could exit the house, she heard Cassidy cry out, “But tell Shay he owes us a visit for kidnapping you. You hear me young lassie?!” Katie chuckled as she shut the door behind her.

Katie walked out to see Shay crouched down to the ground and stroking along Leo’s back. The orange cat enjoyed the long rhythm of Shay’s hand felling the fur. Katie shook her head and said, “You must be a miracle man after all. Very few times Leo would come down from the roof.” Shay looked up to see Katie, he pushed himself up and dusted the knee he was kneeling on. “I never even knew you had a cat.” “Aye, he was really Daniel and I’s, Cassidy just wouldn’t allow him in. There were few winters where she’d allowed him in.” Katie patted Leo and started to head down the streets. “Why the name Leo?” Shay asked. Then Katie explained how Leo never left Daniel’s window seal that she started that name after the story of Daniel in the lion’s den in the Bible. Shay smiled as he listened. “Daniel?” Shay asked, raising an eyebrow. “My cousin. He…he was always there being the big brother model.” “The Finnegan’s late son?” Katie nodded. Shay couldn’t help but notice that Katie’s eyes softened with a mixtures of emotions. He decided to change the subject, and just as he was about to when the Morrigan’s red sails came into view. They both went down the steps from the fort to the ship docks.

***

Katie noticed that the Morrigan had the new sails placed on the rails. They were crimson red with two black celtic wolf heads snarling from side to side. The sunset gave the sails a deadly beauty and they shun through the fabric. She happened to notice that the crew wasn’t near the ship, nor on the docks. “So where is everyone?” Katie asked. Shay pointed southward towards a rank of buildings. “Theres a tavern not too far from here. I’ve allowed the men to-enjoy themselves for the evening, as long as they don’t spend all night with the owls in order to fly with the eagles.” Katie giggled, placing a hand over her mouth. “That’s a new one. I never knew your could be so poetic.” “No, really that was something my aunt Eliza often scolded me about when I was younger. God bless her soul. I was always out on the streets every night, and wont come back drunker then a drunken sailor or bloody tired.” Katie nodded, tracing the railings. “I would of loved to meet your aunt, sounds like a woman I love to get advice from.” Shay’s face looked to the distant sky, “I’m not sure if that old female goat is still alive.” Katie turned and smacked him on the arm, “Shame on you! She raised you, I don’t know her true, but show some dignity!” Shay then lightly pushed her shoulder, signaling her to follow him.

Shay helped Katie up into the Morrigan from the ramp. She looked all around the deck, taking a quiet notice that everything seemed much cleaner and maintained from when the last gang held it. New guns and containers of hot tar kept in a safe distance in a corner of the ship. Shay’s crew had really shown better citizenship for the Morrigan. Oh hell, what did I just thought of? Katie thought. I just compared the assassin’s work to this crews work? Katie quickly asked Shay, “So what kind of ship is the Morrigan?” Shay gave a proud smile, as if he had been waiting a long time for someone to ask about this ship. “She’s a sloop-of-war. Do not underestimate her size, she can take a Man-o-war down if needed.” “I believe in small statures that can put up a fight.” Katie commented, placing a hand on a rail. “A David and Goliath battle if you know what I mean.” Shay nodded. “Nice to have a woman who knows a taste in ships.” “Since when I’m your woman?” Katie asked a hand on hip. “I presume you were just taking me out to sail away and never return.” Shay shook his head. “You are the only lass that could ever be so sarcastic towards me.” Shay then showed Katie the captain’s quarters with a dramatic entrance saying, “This is my domain!” Katie was amazed how much rich decor was in the small cabin. A large oak desk was toward the wide windows, documents and maps occupied the space. A stand stood a yard away, obviously for the robes. A bed was also underneath the large windows, a small shelf with very few books were placed in there. Katie traced the desk with her fingers, circling a ring in the wood. “This is nice. Could use a woman’s touch.” Shay’s raised an eyebrow. His face expressed enough to ask her “Oh, and what do you suggest?” without having the words to express them. Katie lifted a tattered curtain. “Theses for one need to go, they looked like they needed to be used for cleaning use. And…” Katie looked at the extremely thin blanket. “Dear Lord, how can you sleep in something like this. It’s think enough to use as my handkerchief multiple times. How can you sleep in here when winter comes?” Katie also pointed out other interior decor. A rug. A few drapes. And more clean shirts needed. Shay just crossed his arms, and took it all with a smirk.

“Want to see a view of New York?” Shay asked unexpectedly. The question made Katie turned her head away from one of the books from Shay’s shelves. Katie wasn’t sure what to say, she just smiled and placed the book on the bed. She followed Shay outside the cabin and went to the center of the ship. He stepped on a box against a large poll, he urged Katie to step up as well. “Hold on tight.” Shay said, he wrapped an arm around her waist, Katie then placed her arms around his neck. He pulled a rope with a large hook with such force, that when it came up, it took both Shay and Katie vertically in the air with great speed. Katie didn’t scream, yet the unexpected flight was enough to catch her off guard; Shay then swung both himself and Katie to a square flat near the flag post. Her arms were tight around Shay, her eyes widen with excitement and a fearful surprise. Shay looked down and smiled, “Didn’t expect that lass?” He said as he removed Katie’s arms from the back of his neck. “Now why did you go do that?” Katie said. “We could of just climbed up the rope ladders.” Shay rubbed his chin and shrugged. “Well, now that you mentioned it, I should of let you climb up first. After all, the view above me would of been glorious.” Katie’s cheek blushed so hard that it could of been the same color as her dress. Then instead of shouting, Katie was suddenly laughing out loud. It was so contagious that even Shay laughed with her in harmony, causing him to bend down to his knees, using the mass poll as support.

When the laughing stopped, Katie looked out to see a magnificent site. Katie seemed as if she was gazing down from the top of the world. The crows nest overlooking the district and outskirts of New York seemed inspiring. When she found the courage to get closer to the edge, she slowly sat down, tugging most of her skirt under her legs. The wind caused a few strays of red escaped her bun. She’d gripped on the edge tightly as she was awestruck of the ocean view being painted with the sunset, making the landscape look more of what she’d imagined in books that she’d read in her childhood. “I bet old King Georgie himself doesn’t have a view like this.” She said feeling the wind blowing through her hair. “Aye, it is. Although this ocean view is different compare to the radiance I’m seeing next to me.” Katie playful pushed Shay and said, “Oh stop it, you don’t know what you just said.” “Oh, but I do lassie girl.” Shay gave a hidden wink with a soft smile. “The hair with the sunlight compliment each other.” “Yes, as well as the ocean.” Katie made the mistake of looking downward. “Small problem is I’m afraid of heights!” Katie’s mind felt dizzy and light as she looked down toward the water. In truth, she was never afraid of heights, she is just not yet comfortable to be this high above the ground deck. Nor any ground for the matter. This she and Liam need to sanitize her nerves when they meet up for training. Her knees buckled and gave out as she fell backward. Shay grabbed Katie by the waist and turn her back against the poll. It wasn’t until her mind was cleared when she realized he was still holding on to her, and that she was gripping his leather robe. Shay released Katie as she straitened herself. “Thank you. You’re really strong.” Shay gave a light bow, opening his arms, “Always a pleasure, spatially when it comes to rescuing a stubborn damsel in destress.” “Oh so now I have the thickest skull? Says the man who cut a rope to lift both us up high enough to kill us if we missed the landing. Thank God Barry didn’t witness that.” Katie smiled as she thought of the exciting flight and how Barry would of reacted.

They both resumed looking out towards the sea’s horizon. Shay sat on the edge, dangling one leg over. He admired seeing someone who saw such beauty coming from the Morrigan, next to Liam. Katie’s red locks flew loosely around her head as they escaped the loose bun, making look more like a fire dancing with the wind. Thank you God for letting the fire loose around her. Shay thought, giving a smile. Katie’s face showed pure awe and contentment, as if she was seeing a different city. Shay then thought that it was as sure as hell about time he’d get to know more about this lass.   Shay asked her, “So how did you ended up living with the Finnegan’s Katie?” Katie was caught unexpected by the question. She’d given the answers some thought. In her quiet heart of hearts she’d only remembered little of her parents, most of the memories that were strong were the ones involving Daniel.

Finally she’d took a breath as she started telling her story, “My parents were on their way to the colonies to start a new life away from the influence of the British crown. But then again, most of the reason why was to back away from the relatives back home. My extended family back at Galway still couldn’t stomach the thought of a marriage of an Irish man and Scottish woman. Shay blinked in surprise, “Never suspected you were part Scottish.” Katie signed and nodded as she said, “Aye. Some pedigree eh?” Shay smiled the devilish smile she’d seen, “No, although that explains the hair and the thick skull you have.” Katie shook her head, smiling, “Says the man who fought thieves away when barely out of sick bed. Let’s see who has the thickest skull, or do I need to throw rocks next time to prove it so?” Shay shook his head with a quiet laugh, “Probably caused your family back at  the homeland grief.” “Now your just pushing it.” Katie continued with a smirk, “As for the red hair, that came from my father, Nathaniel Shepherd. He’d had the thickest locks on that side of the pastures of Ireland. He actually meet my mother at a pub. Her voice, dark hair, and blue eyes won him over. But I think it was her singing that casted a spell on him. They courted for a year, then decided to get married and a couple years later, they had me.” “One day, my father gambled most of his life savings at a pub in a game of boards, and fortune won him more then enough to start a new life in the colonies. Still can’t believe how lady luck was with him.” “He made his own luck, Katie.” Shay stated. Katie rolled her eyes as she continued, “He planned to have a farm and blacksmith shop of his own. He’d wrote to Cassidy, (his oldest sister) and told her about their passage to the new world.” Katie’s eyes turned sad as she thought back to the memories of her final days with her parents. Shay sensed that this is not the lighten side of the story. “The pox had gotten them when we were barely halfway across the Atlantic. My mother was the first to pass, leaving my father to die of not only the pox, but a broken heart. The crew then gave a funeral at the sea, and dumped the bodies into the water. When we finally reached New York harbor, the ship’s captain somehow managed to find the names of my only relations in New York, and gave me to the Finnegan's. But not without Barry and Cassidy being at a blind rage on the crew for dumping the bodies without a proper funeral at the church. That was the only time I saw Cassidy so angry. I didn’t blame her, not being able to give your brother a proper sendoff to the heavens above.” Katie turned to see Shay being right next to her. “I’m sorry lassie girl. Was it hard for you, when you were handed over to your family?” “It was hard for the first six months, had dozens of nightmares. The only person who really took the time to make me feel welcomed was Daniel. He became the big brother I needed.”

“Tell me about him. Daniel.” He asked, Shay figured this was the opportunity to review more of Katie’s personal life as well as understanding what Daniel stood for. For the past several months, Shay had been suspected that he was rescued by a templar, and entered into their fold with open arms when he was introduced to William Johnson and Jack Weeds by the coronal. This merely a few days ago after destroying the gas factories and tanks influenced by Hope. Hope. Even the idea of her try to turn the city inside out still made him lament for her. He often wondered what he saw in her. But this evening, he is learning more from the caregiver that saved him and became one of his closest friends next to Gist, and yes, even Liam from once upon a time.

Katie twiddled her fingers as struggled to find the words to explain to Shay about her cousin, without exposing the influence of the Templars. Would he think if she was one of them, based on family? Instead, she’d chosen the simple answer. “Daniel was a strong willed man. He’d looked a lot like Barry, but without the senior features and belly.” Shay couldn't help but chuckle quietly. Katie continued. “He had thick brown curls that all the women desired on a man. But girls were not his focus. He always wanted improvements made for the Irish district and New York in general. He was the brother I’ve always wanted. The first few nights I’d spent at the home, I had so many nightmares that kept me from having decent sleep. But Daniel would always came down the hall whenever I screamed. He would spend the night beside me to insure me that I was safe. And he would always be there whenever I would get into trouble.” Shay smiled so big the it seemed more humorous to her. “Oh. You, Katie Shepherd, getting into trouble? Now that’s something I would of like to see.” Katie giggled lowly, “Yes, well Daniel drew me out of more messes then any parent could counted in a lifetime. He swooped me out of sailor’s hands, dragged me out of the grand halls, and one time he took on a beating when I stole a chicken.” Shay eyes widened with surprise. “Not much of a saint eh lassie girl.” “I was young and foolish back then. It’s not like a rode on a donkey through the streets naked as a babe.” “Did you?” Shay asked, his eyes piercing through her barrier. Katie stared, pressed her lips and uttered, “I really hate you right now Shay Cormac.” “Sure you do.” Shay mocked with a smirk on his face. “Still he was always there when I needed him. In fact, it was he who found Master Pierce and convinced him to take me as an apprentice. You see, ever since my parents deaths, I was always wanting to find a way to aid the sick. Being a doctor was out of the question, and surely I can’t be just an assistant nurse. So an herbalist was the second closest thing.”    

Shay had to ask the following question, since he never had the opportunity to ask Monro. “How did Daniel died?” He asked. Katie looked down at her hands as one of her fingers rubbed on a thumb nail. “From what I understood…he died of “a natural catastrophe”. But I suspect that he was involved with…with military affairs. They did brought his body back though; however, it was so beaten and disfigured that there was no open caskets allowed at the funeral. The priest insisted that no-one should remember Daniel’s face for the last time in such a state.” She turned to look at Shay’s robes. Daniel’s robes, as they changed shades in the setting light. “Those robes your wearing right now, consider it an honor; for Cassidy never left it out of her sight for weeks. She mended it, cried in it, and kept it closest to her. I suppose it’s her way of coping.” Shay looked down upon her robes, a new sign of respect for the simple robes. “No parent should ever bury their child.” “Indeed, there were times I wished I could of…of said things differently to him.” A tear went down her cheek. She quickly wiped it from plain sight. “I’m sorry, I’m just…” Shay placed a gloved hand on top of her hand, “It’s fine. You miss him, it completely natural when grieving for a loved one.”

Katie took a calming breath. It won’t do any good to act like a baby. “So you asked me about my family history, but I never knew if you’d had family in the colonies or anything about you in general.” Shay’s eyes went distant as he’d gazed out into the sea. “I have to say theres not much to tell. I never knew my mother, for she’d died giving birth to me and my father handed me down to my Aunt Eliza, my mother’s sister in order to raise me. Suppose it was a way for me to imagine what my mother would of looked like; but that goat couldn’t had been related to my mother. My aunt did mentioned a few times that I inherited her character. She must of been more delightful to be around like a good Irish woman should be.” Katie’s face expressed confusion. “If your mother died the hour before you were born, how could you compare personalities to someone you never even meet?” Shay shook his head, “If you ever meet Eliza, you would know right away.” He continued onto his story, “My father was a merchant marine, so I barely seen him at home. We lived down close to the docks in the southern region by the Hudson. Life was…hard, yet we survive. Not until I grown to the right age of 13, or was it 14? I joined my fathers company and sailed with various ships.” Shay closed his eyes as if he was lost in the depths of his memories. “Those days were the longest, yet most beneficial in my young life. I learned how to defend myself, to fight, and how to handle a ship.” “Sounds exciting.” Katie said as she scooted closer to him. “I bet you had some dangers too. Tell me, what was the most frightening thing you’d ever had to face in your youth?” “One time, a ship full of pirates attacked one of the ships and climbed aboard. We fought them hard. The captain of the pirates and my father were in a face-off. I grabbed a pistol and shot the captain clean through, killing him instantly.” “And without their captain, I assumed they retreated?” Katie asked. “Most of them did, the rest fought till the death.” “Didn’t it bother you though,” Katie began to ask “to kill a man. I mean he was a bloody pirate yes, but you were so young.” Shay looked slightly down as if he thought hard about his answer. “I never showed it to my father, but at night, when I slept in my hammock in the lower deck of the, I would pray and cry out for forgiveness. But as the days went on, I felt that it was necessary for that man to die.” “You were commissioned to transfer goods, of course you did what you had to do!” Shay once again looked out over the ocean horizon. the sun was close to the edge of the water. “In time, I had to except the fact that it was part of the duty as well.” “I bet your da was proud of you nevertheless.” Katie said assuredly. “Aye that he was.” Shay’s expressions were once again distant with a filter of sadness. Katie sensed of what was to come. “Few weeks following the pirate attack, a large storm appeared out of nowhere. We struggled to keep the ship afloat. I can still remember the burning of the salt water as it thrusted on my face. We lost a lot of good sailors that night, my father among one of them. We never recovered any of the bodies from the forsaken sea.” Katie felt condolence and sadness towards Shay. Hasn’t this man been through enough in a quarter of a lifetime Lord? She gripped Shay’s leather gloved hand. He turned and looked down at Katie. “I am so sorry Shay. We both lost a parent or two from the sea, believe me I understand.” He gripped back slightly tighter on her thin hand. “My thanks, but I would have to disagree.” Shay responded. Katie blinked in confusion. “On what?” “After I returned to New York, I spent most of my days drinking at local taverns and picking fights there or in the fight clubs. It wasn’t until…” Shay seemed to hesitate within his thoughts that made Katie secretly cautious. “Until a-childhood friend of mine got me into the..work  that I do now.” “I see.” Katie said, though she knew who he was talking about. Liam. “Well if you ever see him around here, I bet he can teach me how to go through thick skulls.” “He’s-long gone.” Shay’s distant voice was beginning to worrying Katie.

“So Shay, I assumed your finally settled here?” She decided to change the subject matter. The ox in the room as Cassidy would call it. “Aye lassie girl, I think I am. Seems that the bells of New York always seems to lead me back here.” Shay took a deep breath, the scent of salt and smoke filtered the air. “Didn’t you had a home, well that is where did you settle down before your…accident?” Katie knew she couldn’t risk any indications of her interrogations to be obvious. Shay looked northward as if he expected someone to appear out of the thin air. “I-I lived in a modest bunkhouse farther north from here, near the River Valley. Used to bunk with the others.” Katie knew the location of the bunkhouse. One of many hidden bunkhouses along the shores near the homestead. They were modest, but the largest was the home that belonged to Mr. Fockner, the caretaker of the ship, Aquila, the deadliest of the ships.

As Katie tried to gather her hair into a bun again, she commented, “I bet it must be nice to have a home to call your own. I wish I could just walk over and own my own property. Not that I don’t appreciate my aunt and uncle, heavens no. It’s just, I feel that I should have a little more individuality…ah damn!” He hair was flying all over her face. Shay gathered it and held it up for her, allowing Katie to tie the fiery hair tight against the wind. “Thanks.” She told Shay as he’d let go of the hair. “Not a problem. As for your own land, it could happen to all women. Things can change.” Katie looked out to see the sun dipping over the mountains. Panic struck her bloodstream. “Great Saint Andrews!” She cried. “I was suppose to be back!” Shay nodded, got himself up and looked down. As Katie lifted herself off from the nest floor, Shay then turned and handed a small string to her, “Tie your skirts in between.” “What?” “Trust me Katie, you’ll thank me later,” Katie did as he said, as she made a knot, Shay swopped her at the waist and said, “Hold on and… jump!” Katie and Shay jumped in unison, Shay one again grabbed the hook with one hand and the weight of the children of Ireland landed them on the deck. Katie opened her eyes to see that she was underneath Shay, his arm still holding around her waist.

A sudden applause caught the two off guard. Both Katie and Shay looked up to see Gist and some of the crew men with him. “Ah, what a marvelous entrances to you both. I can only imagined what happened up in the nest.” Gist said, aiding Shay to his feet. “Nothing happened!” Katie snapped defensively. “We were just…” Gist shook his head. “Always a snapper eh Captain, couldn’t even take a joke.” Shay reached down and helped Katie up. She arched a brow and asked, “You knew some of the men made it back, didn’t you Shay?” Shaking his head, all Shay could reply was, “Well I didn’t want Barry to kill all of the Morrigan’s crew for looking underneath his niece.” Katie’s eyebrows went hard and she punched his arm hard. It was her hardest, but it didn't make Shay flinch. Shay looked at Gist and said, “If you don’t mind friend, I’ll be taking Katie back to her home now. Man the Morrigan until I get back.” Gist nodded, “Of course.” He then turned to Katie, tipped his hat to her. “Katie.” Katie nodded back in acknowledgment. As Shay and Katie passed some of the crew men, a few of them nodded, and a couple tipped their hats to Katie.    

Shay and Katie went up the streets without another word. Finally they approached the Finnegan’s home before the stars came out. “I know I will have a tongue lashing from Cassidy for being late.” Katie said. “You sure you don’t want to join us?” Shay shook his head with a smile. “No thank you lassie girl. As much as I love your aunt’s cooking, I need to return to the Morrigan.” “Your just afraid of facing my uncle for bringing me home late.” Shay smiled and nodded, “That’s half true.” Katie started to make her way to the front door, when she turned on her heels at the gate. “Shay!” Katie called out, causing the Irish man to turn on his feet as well. “Thanks again, for the tour and the talk. It felt very-very welcoming.” “My pleasure. We all needed a break from the madness from time to time.” Katie nodded. “Don’t be a stranger to come over.” “Aye. Well…sweet dreams lassie girl.” Katie nodded with a wink. “Goodnight, Captain Cormac.” She then went inside and closed the door behind her.

After a bundle of questions from her aunt and uncle, following with a delicious dinner that Barry was craving for, Katie went upstairs to her bedroom. She took out the old robes that Shay was found in several months prior. She tried to save most of it, but it proved to be too damaged to save. So she started cutting up the fabrics and storing the cut pieces under her mattress. Katie washed the dirt from her face, and went to bed feeling comforted and having the knowledge that she helped Shay start a new life. Oh Lord above, don’t let the templars influence him strongly. Was all she could pray for her friend.

[acrouge-walkintwoworlds]

Walk in Two Worlds-Chapter 5

From the sweet perfume smell of the garden to the scent of fish and sea salt, Katie and Shay walked towards the private docks. He heart pounded as they approach the Morrigan, her mind analyzing the situation.

So Shay was the one who rescued Gist, but then the cornel was talking to him about Gist last time I saw him. But I sure hope I don’t get the wrong impression if the crew saw me with Shay.

Katie was surprised however, that she didn’t see any of the assassins crew that she had seen over the past months.

This crew looked more rough and sleet. Most of them had some scars on their face and arms. Most of the men stopped what they were doing to see her passing by. Few of them even stood up and tilted their hats to her, with her giving a small nod in return.

She couldn’t help but think that this was the first time she’d been treated this well by sailors when she was on the docks. Of course, that was when she was a little tom boy, sneaking onto the ships with Daniel and another boy named Dobby. Now as a woman, these men respected her.

The only other man she recognized was one she’d thought would surely be hanged. Gist was talking to one of the crews, examining a long piece of sail. It seemed to be pink, one of the few stages of the dyeing progress.

He looked to see Shay and Katie walking towards him. “Ah captain, I didn’t know that we were expecting a fine piece of beauty to join us.”

Katie gripped her basket so tight that her knuckles almost turned white.

Still she kept her demeanor and said, “Well your crew had ordered these herbs and I assumed it was for the king’s soldiers being red and all. That or it be interesting to place in someone’s teas.”

Gist chuckled, “You never mentioned that she’d be a sharp pistol.”

Katie blinked in surprise.

Shay gave a smile. “Don’t be alarmed lassie girl, I just recommended your bosses’s shop, I just happened to know his apprentice. You have already meet Christofer Gist. Gist, meet Katie Shepherd.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet a woman with, high tolerance rates.” Gist reached out his hand towards Katie. For a while, she’d froze for a few seconds, hesitating to receive the shake.

Was she afraid? She should be, for she faced one of the most dangerous agents in the Colonial branch of the templars. If he’s knew of her allegiance, Gist would probably do unspeakable to her in order to send the assassins a message; nevertheless, she knew from Hope that “As long as you are a woman, you can get away with anything beyond men’s intelligence. That is one secret to being a keen observer.”

Perhaps playing dumb on the secret war is her safe insurance.

Katie deciding in her mind to continue to be in this facade. She excepted his hand, as he’d given her hand a kiss. Shay raised an eyebrow and said, “Since when do you treat women with such high regards?”

“Only the ones who are as fine to look at and to respect as highly regarded as your Morrigan Captain.”

Katie handed her basket to a young sailor. He gave his thanks with a bow and headed back to the Morrigan.

“Well then oh “captain, where is your ship by chance? Hope these bring something interesting for your teas then?” She asked.

Shay then turned her shoulders around to see the Morrigan in view, a fierce beauty that Katie never knew could come out of a simple vessel.

“This is her. The Morrigan, in all her splendor and glory. I probably mentioned in my babbling that I owned a fine ship once.”

Katie pursed her lips in thought. She never did heard Shay mentioning a ship to her when he was ill. “Well…sorry to disappoint but you never mentioned that. In fact, I thought just as Barry would of put it, a drunken sailor that hit his head hard.”

“Oh, then was I boring you then, you think of me a “normal” sailor?” Shay’s voice was almost as big mouth as Barry’s, but Katie knew that he was trying to ruffle her feathers.

“Actually no. I thought you’d be more…first mate.”

Shay rolled his eyes. “Fair enough.”

Gist was examining one of the herbs from her basket when he laughed. “Look at it this way, captain, she came pretty close to being correct about your position of the Morrigan. I say we should take her out to make wages at the local taverns. The Morrigan can be updated by Katie’s reading skills.”

Shay gave a laugh, “We better just keep her near the bay, when all…matters are settled.”

Katie could see that Shay seemed troubled, his eyes became soft with sadness and justification.

He then coughed heavily and asked her, “So Lassie Girl, what do you think of my ship?”

“She’s… She’s breathtaking Shay. I was wondering why your first mate wanted every dyeable flower and red herb.”

“Well, we didn’t want to spoil the fun of seeing a surprise glow on a lass like you.” Gist gloated, placing his hands on his hips. “Some of the sails needed a more…dramatic approach.”

Katie smiled and said, “I never suspected you being so…dramatic Shay. Striking the fear of pirates and the French.”

“We couldn’t tell you even if we could, too drastic for a lady’s ears to hear.”

“Oh yes, especially when your men are adding wolves heads to the sails. Why if I were a lamb I’d be shaking with fear.” Katie sensed the sweet taste of victory, provided by the aid of her humor. “Suppose these we suggested by the-first mate.”

Gist and Shay looked at each other, both seemed to silently debate who the credit should go to.

Gist then said, “We all contributed ideas to the captain, the crew that is.”

Katie turned back to Shay and asked, “Where did you find this man?” Of course Katie had a good idea, still she needed to keep her facade intact.

Gist looked down to his boots in thought, “Let’s just say the captain saw I was in desperate need and decided to hire me on the spot as first mate.”

Katie raised an eyebrow, “Is that so?”

“Well then how do you measure the worth of a man?” Gist asked.

Katie smiled a small devious smile as she gave her answer, “Well I measure a worth by how sober he is when entering into the only herbalist shop in this city, that way he have decency not to vomit all over the clean floors that the apprentice had to do all over again. To conclude my view points, perhaps the captain shall hand over the payment with the insurance that his first mate will make up to the apprentice in the near future.”

Shay gave loud hard laugh. He’d laughed so hard that he’d bent down towards his knees. Gist was already turning red underneath the hat and beard.

Shay pulled out the payment out of his pocket, and handed it to her, still chuckling hard enough to make his weapons to make sounds as they impacted against the others. He gave a warm smile that seemed to keep her from leaving the docks.

“It’s been a pleasure having your service.” He said.

Katie placed the payment in the pocket of her apron and replied, “It’s been a pleasure as well, Captain Cormac, it has been too long. I would really like to see you again…well that is, whenever you have a spare moment from…You never did show me around your new home.” What was wrong with her? Normally Katie would not be so mushy.

Shay gave a smile and said, “Well then, we will have to make arrangements from both our bosses. Or I could kidnap you if you rather.”

Katie shook her head with a smirked smile. “That sounds flattering, despite the fact that you publicly admitted that you planned to kidnap me. But in a way, yes I would like that.”

Shay’s eyes softened, “Then-I hope to see you again soon, Katie.”

“Same to you as well.” Katie replied. She then turned to Gist, “And you as well Christi…”

“Call me Gist. Christofer was my fathers name.” Gist waved a gloved hand in the air.

Katie rolled her eyes. “Alright then, Gist. It was a pleasure to meet you…properly as well.”

As Gist headed up to the Morrigan, Shay looked at the sun setting over the western horizon. Katie’s basket was returned to her by one of the younger cabin boys, no more then the age of eleven. He’d blushed as he’d bowed to Katie, and headed back to the other sailors; they laughed and punched him roughly on the shoulders with jester. Shay smiled and said, “Looks like you may have influenced some of my men.”

“Stop it Shay, you don’t know what you just said. I know you probably warned them about going near me.”

Shay shrugged his shoulders. “Never thought the idea until now.” He rolled his shoulders, causing his stature to become more thicker as the mussels move in unison, Katie had to shake her mind away from such details. She has to keep her enemies closer yes, but this is Shay. Why was she being a jester?

Katie pushed away a curl that was trapped at the corner or her mouth, and said, “I should be going. Cassidy expects me to aid on supper tonight, I- have been rather absent lately.”

In real truth, Katie would work on experimenting with Pierce to master the poisons the templars would probably use. from taste testing, to scent identification. Hence why Cassidy insisted that Katie should be “home” once in a while.

“Suppose I better escort you home then?” Shay asked.

Katie almost thought about excepting the offer; however, Hope’s spies are everywhere and there is no telling what would happen.

Instead she shook her head, “No, my home isn’t too far away, if you can recall.”

Shay gave a nod and took Katie’s hand, “Then you be careful then lassie girl, until we meet again.” He kissed her hand and turned to the Morrigan.

Did he kissed my hand for charm or to give warning to the crew? Katie thought as she walked up the steps from the docks. She couldn’t understand why was she protecting this man. Perhaps She thought. Maybe I can influence him back into the order. Find the right opportunity to… Katie smacked the middle of her forehead with her hand. No stupid. Shay is pretty much a dead man to them. And what would they do to him if they seen him alive, with me? I suppose…even if they did see us. Perhaps they wont recognize him without the mustache and beard. After all, he looks much better now then when he came to our… Katie had to rein in her thoughts as she approached the Finnegan’s front door step. The apple tree on the west side of the house was pregnant with large apples upon it’s branches. Cassy was peeling potatoes into a bucket, while barry chopped away the smoked ham.

“Ah, good to see the young worker bee out of that hive.” Barry said, swinging the meat knife in the air.

Katie placed her basket on the stool by the door, took a potato, and joined Cassidy in skinning the vegetable of her homeland.

“I swear by the Mighty One, the day I stop working is the day potatoes would stop growing in Ireland.” Katie sarcastically said.

Incoming Message Did she just predicted the potato famine of 1845? Damn. I’m with Gist on her foretelling the future, they could be millionaires richer then Trump.

Oh sorry fellow assassin, I didn’t mean to interrupt you and pausing the memory. I just needed to check to see if we can pause. It always drove me crazy that you couldn’t run the program without a pause button. What if you needed to piss or needed to get the phone.

Okay. Fine, you got me, we needed to check this incase either you needed to escape quickly without losing both the data and your brains. We may test these on kids we located in Brooklyn through Father Vincent’s son, Jacob. I actually agree with Mel, we don’t need to steal away the kid’s innocent lives as long as we can. Well, good to see that this works. Get back to it. Vicar out.

Program Resuming

Cassidy chuckled. “I bet money that would never happened. In fact, that is a vegetable that never seems to stop growing.”

“Not true Cass.” Barry called. “What about the tomatoes that Old man Bomane sent us continuously. He kept giving us more then what we needed, that I actually was glad to give the British the fruit to match their coats.”

“Barry!” Cassy scolded.

“What? It was considered charity, consider it being honorable to our king. blah.”

Katie tried to hide the smile as Barry justified a dodging from his wife of thirty years. Cassidy noticed this and decided to investigate the matter.

“Well Katie, you look a bit cheered today. May I ask how was your day?”

Katie blinked. She finished a potato, placed it in a separate pot, and began sheering the second potato. “Well…other then grinding plants all day. I saw Shay Cormac today.”

Cassidy’s face seemed to light up.

“Shay? We haven't heard that name in months. The last time I saw him was when he and Coronial Monro examined the church being rebuilt. Such a gentleman to repair God’s house.”

Barry crossed his arms and tapped his foot.

“Well then, perhaps this is one of those you wished you never married.” He said sarcastically. “Besides, he seems right for Katie here.”        

Katie nearly cut her thumb when Barry mentioned her and Shay. She scoffed and said, “You expect me to marry a man I barely knew except for what condition he was in.” And a man branded a dead traitor to my order. “For example, I never knew he was a captain of a ship.”  

“Really?” Cassidy asked. “That man seems to be full of surprises.”

Indeed he is. Katie thought. Indeed  

[acrouge-walkintwoworlds]

Walk in Two Worlds: An AC Rogue fic Chapter #11

Chapter 11

New York, New York April 1757

The markets were filled with patrons as the warm April air warmed the earth. Trees were fully budded with small green leaves, and flowers filled patches of grasses in front of each building. Shay had just traded a wolf’s hide he’d hunted and skinned for an assortment of bullets, gunpowder and pellets. He also restocked on other necessities for the cabin of the Morrigan to last for months on the next assignment from Monro. He’d tried to remain oblivious from the assassin’s spies in this particular district, since he know’s Hope is more likely to be here among one of them. So today he’d just worn a long trench coat and a tanned shirt to look as a common sailor as wheat. And the real fact was that his robes were a little battered up and were in desperate need of a wash. He wasn’t always skilled with the needle when it comes to tattered uniforms, even when he was privatizing with his father.  

“Shay!” Barry Finnegan bellowed as he took his hand and both pulled Shay into an embrace catching Shay off guard. “Mr. Finnegan, it’s…it’s a pleasure to see you again.” Shay felt a blush coming on for being caught off guard. If he was a scout, I would of been killed on the spot. “Ah, just call be Barry! Everyone but Monro does. Cassidy has been wondering where you’ve been, Katie mentions a lot about your commissions with the  Colonial. And as a captain of all things.” Shay nodded his head, he looked down at the limped goose in Barry’s hand. “What’s the occasion?” He asked gesturing a gloved hand to the poultry. Barry lifted the goose with pride, “Ah. This here drake is for celebration of the birth of the two most important women in my life.” Shay blinked with surprise. “Katie’s birthday is soon?” Shay felt stupid for not asking about Cassidy’s as well. “Aye, Katie’s was yesterday, but she had to things for Pierce and had to go to Philadelphia. Cassidy insisted we get the goose while it’s still eligible. Your welcome to join us as soon as she get’s back.” Shay thought about excepting Barry’s offer, but Shay had to graciously decline due to preparation of destroying more gang locations. Still Shay wanted to find something for his dearest friend. “Mr. Finnegan…Barry…May I ask what does Katie generally like in terms of gifts?” Barry raised an eyebrow in surprise. Scratching is white beard, he’d gave a thought. “Well…to be honest, Katie was never the type for gifts. Everything Cassidy and I would ask every Christmas, birthday, or Easter, she would just say, “Just surprise me, for there is nothing I want more then another healthy year in me age.”. Bloody hell that lass is harder to find a thing for.” Shay smiled to himself. That’s my lassie girl. “Sir, I…I never fully repaired your kindness. If there is a way I can…” “Ah, no need Shay. Unless if you find a bunch of fabric grander then what these mills offer, then you make that wife of mine happy in more ways.” Barry chuckled and gave a wink, causing Shay to give a smile, understanding what he meant. “I’m…no tailor… but I can see to that. My thanks.” Shay shook Barry’s hand and both men attended to their own matters. “Oh, and Shay!” Barry leaned in closer to whisper, “Not a word. I want this to a birthday to remember for my Cassy.” All Shay could do was smile and give a short nod. “I owe you Shay!” Shay extended his hand to Mr. Finnegan, “Consider this even for all you and your women did for me Barry.” The two men shook hands and parted their ways.

All the afternoon, Shay was looking at the contents of the crates recovered from the ships that the Morrigan had taken down recently. Teas. Weapons. drenched paperworks with the assassin’s seal. By far there were very few items that Shay would give to Katie. Shay was entering the fifth crate when Gist entered the cabin .He whistled as he saw the scattered contents all over the cabin. “Captain, I hope the crew isn't aware of you hoarding all these goods for yourself.” Gist said, picking up a silver plate. “No, I… I am looking for…” Shay couldn’t give an answer. He sighed heavily. Running a hand through his hair, Shay’s frustration was clearly shown upon his face to Gist “I managed to find many contacts related to the French allying with a renegade and destroying many gang headquarters; yet I can’t find a bloody gift to give to Katie for her birthday.” Gist gave a smile, rubbing his bearded chin as he gave thought. “Ah.That is a daunting task indeed. For women maybe the most difficult thing to look for in terms of gifts, especially for a lass like Katie Shepherd. May I suggest looking underneath the straws underneath the tea sacks.” Gist kneeled down and dug into the straw paddings. “Most merchants would hide any illegal goods or valuable stuff underneath the padding. Most of the gangs would smuggle weapons and deadly poisons. Or…” He then pulled out a wooden jewelry box and a wine bottle, Shay hoisted himself us and looked inside the opened box. The box contained few priceless jewelry, he picked up a golden ring band twisting it around seeing the light reflected from the precious metal. “My thanks friend.” Shay said. “Lets see if we can find more treasures underneath.” “Perhaps some of these goods maybe of use in selling or trade to upgrade the Morrigan.” “My thoughts exactly.” Shay and Gist managed to find dozens of illegal weapons, including the silent rifle like the one Shay discovered years back, ammunition, hidden money papers, spiced wine, strong liquors, and expensive chocolates. Gist insisted that they should have a toast of wine for the discoveries beyond. Shay also managed to find another crate full of women’s clothing with fine fabrics and edging, even though most of them were too big for Katie’s body. That body. Shay shook his head away from his fantasies. At the bottom was a crate full of fabric materials. Perhaps Cassidy could use the fabric to make new clothes for both herself and her niece. A blank leather bond journal with a tie was wrapped around a dark green skirt. Shay picked the journal up and smiled to himself. I make my own luck. He took a break with Gist, as they drank the sweetest wine Shay had ever tasted, to victory of the discovered items.

Shay that evening went to the Finnegan’s home to deliver the items, but As he was about knock the door, he’d paused and looked up to the large tom cat, Leo pawing upon a window he’d guessed was to Kate’s room. He’d then smiled, tied the sack around one of his belts and started to climb along the building from the other side. When he’d reached the window, the orange tom gave a demanding meow. Shay shushed the cat by stroking the fire colored fur. He’d pushed the window opened and both the man and cat stepped into a small bedroom. The bedroom was smaller then the room Shay occupied. He assumed this was the guest chamber originally when young Katie moved in with the Finnegan’s. He noticed a few books on the desk next to her bed with herbs drying upside down in one post of the bed, giving the room a rich smell. Shay went to the bed and pulled the contents from his sack. As he’d finished, he could hear a door opening from downstairs, the sound of greetings and cheer. Katie must be home. Shay placed an sealed envelope and he helped himself out the window. Into the darkness

***

Katie was back at the Finnegan’s home three days after she left Devonport. She was welcomed home with a great embarrass from her aunt and uncle, and as if it were a gift from above, Cassidy had the goose on the spick since earlier that morning. The meal was served that evening with roasted potatoes, stewed carrots, and for dessert Cassidy’s famous Apple peach pie. Over the course of the dinner, Cassidy talked about the improvements of the number of people returning to the church, the new fabrics that Barry gave her for her birthday, and the news she received from her family back in Ireland. “Your cousin, Duncan has finally went forward to become a priest.”

Incoming Message

Hold on…

Duncan Little….

Of course. He was one of Connor Kenway’s assassin recruits. Didn’t know the assassin’s bloodline is scattered. Who am I kidding. Katie and Little have the same red hair. So I guess that makes them…second cousins I guess.

I’ll let you get back to the memories.

End of Message.

Barry’s eyes raised an eyebrow. “Not surprised. With what happened to his Uncle Mako at the opera house or whatever the hell it is called, I’d be running to the church doors as well.” “Who’s Mako?” Katie asked, cutting a piece of the breast into pieces. Cassidy looked at Katie, almost unsure. “You never heard of Mako? Didn’t I ever mentioned him ya?” The young woman shook her head. “Nope all I heard was Duncan and grandpa Shepherd’s news.” Barry was cutting and mashing a potato with his fork, “Aye, Mako was a well kept British fellow, not sure how you cousin Meredith landed in such a rich style Cass.” “How did he die? Did he had health problems?” “No. He was murdered.” Katie’s head rode to look at her uncle. There were rumors about an assassin being murdured at the opera house. How could Mako…rubbish, it’s not as if I have assassins in my family as well. “What? But when did this happened? Why wasn’t I told this before?” “This happened years ago. I’m surprised that your aunt here didn’t tell you sooner Katie.” “Barry!” Cassidy snapped at her husband. “Maybe it’s just because Katie has been working the souls of her shoes off working on healing the sick and delivering herbs in a time of war. It seems absurd to let a young woman travel alone.” “I can get along just fine Aunt Cassidy. Besides I travel mostly by the ship Pierce owns and commissions. So I’m perfectly safe regardless of the men all around.” Katie was cutting a thick piece of goose, the juice drained from the piercing holes from the fork. Barry took a drink from his mug and said, “Well regardless of how you work lass, I am mighty proud of you. And if any man try to sweep you off your feet, he’ll have to answer to me.” Cassidy smirked and chuckled. “What?” Katie asked the old woman. “Oh nothing dear. I was just figuring that if any man had his eyes on you, he’ll have to get past Shay first. He does have an eye for you Katie girl.” Katie almost choked on the piece of goose. She took a mug of water and drank it down. Barry lifted his eyes towards his wife. “Believe it or not lassies, I saw the devil at the market this morning. He was looking battered, but strong as any Irish man. He’d asked about you Katie.” “He did?” Katie asked casually. “Aye lass. Come to think of it, it has been too long since he’d been here for supper or something. Mark me words though, if this war ever ends, perhaps he should settle down here.” Katie shook her head, “Marrying me off already uncle?”

Katie entered into her room, only to be surprised with a bouquet of wild flowers on her pillow with a wrapped parcel next to it. Katie picked up the flowers, knowing it wasn't Barry who would place these on her pillow. She took a deep breath, allowing the perfumes to make her head light and comfortable. She placed them on her vanity and opened the note on the parcel.

Happy Birthday lassie girl, thank you for all you had done for me.

Shay Cormac

Shay?! As far as Katie could tell, Barry and Cassidy had no knowledge that Shay climbed into their home at the dead of night only to place gifts for their niece. Or else they knew and just pretended not to know. Knowing Shay’s background, he could be stealthy enough to kill anyone or steal anything. The thought and fear of Shay knowing Katie’s allegiance made her shiver; nevertheless she was also flattered for the gesture, with addition of shutting the window on his way out. Still, she knew that Shay would of never hurt her. That was proven at the cemetery back in February. The moments when he held her in his arms, something changed in Katie, she now saw Shay as something more then just a man she’d rose from the grave. He became her best friend. A person she could turn to for a laugh or an ear. And usually it’s the other way around.  

Katie opened the parcel and the contents of the box had her mouth drop. Inside was a variety of elegant and rare items Katie could not come to grips with. A copy of “The Adventures of Ferdinand Count Fathom” by Tobias Smollett, a pair of gold stud earrings, a packet of strong tea leaves that would be worth more then her wages, and a small silver locket with a newly edged image of a familiar wolf’s head. Katie looked at the letter again, wondering if there were other men with these letters. It wasn't until she noticed a fine print at the bottom of the page,

“Meet me at the Morrigan when you get back.”

Katie turned to the window looking into the darkness, a smile went across her face. The day may of been long, full of weary travels, but this had been a good day. She placed all her gifts on top of the vanity, placed the flowers in a water pitcher and blew out the candle before falling asleep with Leo curled next to her head.

Outside, from a rooftop across the street, Shay smiled down, for he had another victory for today. Exterminating the factory of gases, and finding the perfect gifts for this young woman, and it never costed him any shilling required. I make my own luck.  

The next day, after Katie finished with runs with Pierce, she made her way to the Morrigan. She had her hair half way pulled with a small braid on each side. She wasn’t sure why she wanted to look a little more…clean…after all, all the sailors wouldn’t care how a woman looked as long as there are breasts upon her chest. Still, she felt insured that Shay wouldn't allow his crew to take advantage of her.

As Katie arrived at the Fort’s docks, she noticed the Morrigan was in the process of being repaired, for the crew was focused on repairing the sidings of the ship. As Katie was getting ready to board the ramp to the ship, a crew member yelled from the side swing, “Captain is expecting ya lass, and step with the right will ya.” As Katie was about to thank the sailor, the man interupted, “The Morrigan already has been through enough damaged thanks toy your last presence, we don’t want bad luck on our end.” “Keep talking to a lady like that and the only horrible luck you’ll have is being baited for the sharks by me!” The sound of Shay’s voice gave a booming command from above the sailor. As Katie, with right foot first, made her way up the ramp, Shay extended a hand to her’s as he assisted her onto the deck. Katie noticed that Shay was wearing a simple tunic with a dark trench coat. His dark hair looking half dapped as if it was drying from a bath. “You know he wasn’t really harassing me Shay.” Katie commented, placing a hand on her hip. Shay gave a hard look towards where the sailor was. “I know, still you are as Gist would all you, the queen of the Morrigan and you should be treated like one.” Katie raised a brow, “Even if a woman on the ship brings misfortune?” Shay smirked a laugh. “I make my own luck, Katie.” Katie blinked as she suddenly remembered why she was here. “I wanted to thank you for the lovely gifts.” “It’s no trouble at all. Anything for you lassie girl.” Shay placed a hand on her shoulder, turns her to the cabin and went inside. This was the first time Katie had ever stepped into Shay’s cabin. The center of the deck had a desk where papers and maps littered the top surface. A bed was hidden near one of the corners underneath the large window. But Katie’s mind was turned to the robe, Daniel’s robe, handing upon a mannequin. Katie noticed a few scratch marks upon the leather and a tear on the left side. She touched the torn leather, thinking of what battle did Shay partook in.

“I’m still in the process of repairing it. Never got the hang of mending leather.” Shay explained with an embarrassed tone. Katie gave a smile. “Daniel was never good neither, so Cass and I always ended up mending it for him when he is…was home.” Katie’s eyes lowered again to the robes, touching the black leather. Shay could sense that she was missing her cousin. He then took Katie’s hand, “Come to the table lass, let’s discuss the mending matter for pay and celebrate your birth with wine!” He lead her to the desk. He pulled up the chair behind the desk for her to sit. He pulled a drawer and pulled a bottle of wine out. “You do drink wine, do you lassie girl?” Shay asked. Katie gave a smile. “Only on special occasions and when communion comes along.” Shay then grabbed there glasses from a chest and poured the red liquid into two of them. “Three cups?” Katie was puzzled. “Anyone else coming?” Shay gave a shrug. “No, but I imagine that Hist would barge in after he smells the excellent smell of this wine.” Granting a smile, he chuckled, “That man has the nose of a hound when it comes to a drink.” As Shay finished filling the cups, he handed one to Katie and they both claimed their glasses together. “Happy Birthday lassie girl.” He said before both drank in unison. The wine was the most rich and spiced that she’d ever tasted. As they placed the glasses on the desk, Katie commented, “This wine is the best I’ve ever tasted, where did you come across it? Must of costed a king ransom!” “Nah, it was real a booty from a pirate’s raid that the Morrigan fought off from. Gist and I we just try to keep the crew from consuming in this too much of the richness of it.” “Is that so, well I suspected that Geist might be the bigger threat to the wine if he has the nose of a hound.” Katie twisted a curl with her right index finger.

As if on quote from a play, the cabin door opened to have Gist enter in. “AH, the queen has finally arrived at her palace.” Gist belowed. Katie rolled her eyes. “I think by rights this is Shay’s castle on a ship.” Gist shook his head while taking a cup that Shay filled for him. “Ah lass, behind every good captain is a strong woman.” He took a swig of the wine down. ”By God if you haven’t been around on this earth at all, Shay would of probably be in Limbo or worse if the Reaper took him. Speaking of which, Captain, I found these in one of the goods the other day and we should light one in Katie’s honor.” Gist pulled out a wooden box that Katie recognized to be a cigar box. Which Gist handed the long roll of tobacco to Shay and saved one for himself. He picked up one of the candles near by and each of the men listed it up by exhaling in and out causing the burning plants to glow embers of red orange. The smell had a strong earthy smell that took Katie back to her childhood in Galloway.

“I never thought of you to be smoking on a cigar Shay.” Katie said surprised. Shay fiddled the long cigar in between his fingers. “I generally don’t, but that doesn't mean I take a rare pleasure of the earthly sense. Why, you don’t hang out with men that smoke?” Katie blinked and shook her head.  “Oh no…it’s just…old memories of the homeland I guess. The scents would take me back to my grandfather, Jonah Shepherd. Whenever after a mass or holiday, my parents and I would often visit him and my grandmama, Samantha. He would always light a cigar with a cup of brandy while talking business to my father.” She twirled a lock of hair with her finger, causing the it to be even more curled. “He sounds like a true gentleman in my book.” Gist said, taking a deep breath into his cigar. Katie nodded. “I suppose he was. Even though he’d never approved my father’s marriage to a Scottish maid, but he loved his granddaughter.” Katie was playing with a red curl as she remembered the old man.  

Shay then extended his cigar to Katie. “Perhaps you should give it a try.” Kati starred at him with concern and tolerance. “Shay, you know it’s not lady like.” “Do you see other people here to judge ya Katie?” Gist asked, spreading his arms outward to acknowledge of the cabin’s emptiness. Katie sighed and shook her head as she took it, and based on memories of her grandfather’s habits, took a slow breath of it, repeating it a few times. The overwhelming burn of smoke made her choke up, yet the strong earthy scent brought her back memories of the motherland as it dried up her mouth. When she removed the cigar from her mouth, she exhaled that ended up her coughing hard. Gist patted her in the back, while Shay handed her a water skin to drink. “Good show Katie, never thought I live to see a woman snuff a smoke from a cigar.” Katie was still coughing lightly, even after drinking talk the water, tears coming from the corners of her eyes. “Well then…” Katie said in between coughs. “I just had the realization that grandfather was right, cigars are not for the faint in heart, and is a man’s luxury that should be treasured.” The two men chuckled looked at each other in agreement. “But Shay, if your to make a habit out of this, a good handmade pipe and tobacco is my personal preference.”

Gist then took his freshly filled wine cup and exclaimed “May I propose a toast then. To the Queen of the Morrigan. Katie! May she live long and glorious for more years to come!” “Here here!” Shay cheered, clanking the wine flasks together. The three friends drank the spiced wine in unison. Following with Shay giving her a kiss on the cheek. Katie’s eyes widened and she could feel her cheeks blushing. Outside, she could hear the found of music playing. “Ah, the crew must be playing for such an occasion too.” Geist said. Katie listened carefully. “This song, it seems so familiar. I haven't heard it since when I was sailing with my parents. The sailors on that ship would play for the passengers.” She then turned to Shay and asked, “Do you know the tune or name of this song?” Shay listened for a moment then answered, “Ye Jacoytes. A classic jig.” Together, the two men and woman sat and listened to the crews playing and singing,   Katie was still astounded that a lamb of an assassin was among a den of wolves and they were not aware of it.

[acrouge-walkintwoworlds]

Walk In Two Worlds- Chapter 10

Chapter 10

July 1756

“The templars had been active in the Boston area, I believe that Grand Master Kenway’s commanders were more involved. No one had seen Kenway for months.” As she read the reports to her masters from Pierce, Katie noticed that Achilles and Hope seemed distracted within a deep thought, as if someone had recently died. She didn’t want to ask them for what was in their minds, for she’d made that mistake too many times in her life; for they usually lead to a heated reply due to the eleventh commandment: Mind your own business.

So she’d figured that she would ask Liam after their training session later on that day, which turned more challenging then Katie ever anticipated. For Liam had decided it was time for her to learn hand to hand combat. Though it wasn’t Katie’s first dance in compact, it was mostly with Hope and the other female assassins. This session however, was with a man twice as big as her and much stronger.

As she prepared for her stance, an unexpected amount of pain struck her side of the fact. She stumbled back, only to quickly stumble back upright, just intimate to dodge a throw punch. She swiftly gave a hook from underneath his chin. Liam didn’t had a chance to strike back as he stumbled, and Katie pinned the Irish man to the ground.

As they hoisted themselves up, Liam still remained quiet when he sat down upon a stool and drank his water skin.  

As Katie took the water skin to drink, she’d asked her master, “So what has happened recently? Why does everyone look so frustrated? Has something happened?”

Liam blink as if he’s noticed that Katie was in the room for the first time. “We have lost a brother and the manuscript a few months ago.” His voice was tired and dry.

Katie shrugged, “Most of our brothers die all over this wide world for the creed everyday. I’m sure …”

“It’s not related to a mission, Katie, he betrayed the brotherhood. He took the manuscript that was recently taken away from the Templars just only recently.”

Katie almost spat out her drink, her mind was filled with a sudden grip of fear. But she had to know for sure, “Wasn’t there a motive behind his actions?”

Liam gave a signed, “You remember the mission your cousin was on back at ‘51?”

Katie nodded.

How could she have not known. According to the reports, there was a massive earthquake that destroyed many villages and killed hundreds, Daniel being one of them.

“Well, he was on his was to investigate a possible precursor sight to retrieve the piece of eden. He claimed that a great earthquake had been caused by meddling with the precursor temples. The same action at Lisbon like in Haiti.”

Katie realized who he was talking about.

Lisbon? Shay mentioned Lisbon once in his nightmare and many time in his delusions.

“Was this your friend, the one you mentioned a few times was suppose to aid in finishing my training?”

Liam gave a slow nod. “Achilles confronted him when he caught Shay in his office as the theft took place. Shay ran to the cliffs edge. These edges.We tried to get the manuscript back by negotiating, but he cried out that he couldn’t, that he would not allow this tragedy to happen again, and that one more soul lost hardly matters. Before he’d jumped from the cliffs, he had been shot, not sure who though. We’d never found the body.”

Katie’s chest felt tighter then a war drum.

Could the man who she cared for months prior be Liam’s friend? The one he’d thought had died in the Atlantic?

OH GOD! Katie exclaimed in her mind. I’ve not only harbored an assassin, but a traitor, and possibly a candidate for the templars. And Liam doesn’t know! Well, maybe it’s better this way, I may end up turning Shay back to the Assassin’s. As far as I can see, they don’t know that Shay’s alive and well…well mostly.

Katie sighed and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“I’m so sorry Liam.” She said.

Liam squeezed her hand and looked at her with an expression thankfulness.

Liam then commented, “You would of liked Shay, Katie. To be honest, I was going to recommend a mission for you two to Achilles to hunt for more temples. But…” Liam went quiet for a moment, Katie could of sworn that she saw her master’s eyes water for a moment.

“He really meant a lot to you.”

Liam nodded in agreement “More of the brother I’d never had. I suppose he was the Daniel in my life, with no blood relations.” He rose from the chair and grabbed his robe. “Come on lass, we best better see what templar affairs take us.”

Katie still remembered when Liam first told her about “Shay’s death” almost a year ago when after Shay left the Finnegan's with the Morrigan. She was still astounded that she managed to keep the fact that Shay is alive a secret for over a year now.

April 1757

The Frontier, New York

“Tracking a prey is the same principle as your target. You learn by observing the surrounding of their ways of living, eating, and on rare occasions mate upon one another.” Kesegowaase and Katie were both crouched down upon a cliff’s edge near the homestead, observing a bull elk grazing upon a new batch of spring grass. The native assassin had been teaching Katie the art of stealth, hunting, survival, and tracking targets for the past four days. The range from from rabbits to deer, and seemed that Katie will now target an elk.

“You must hide in plain sight, and never let anything give you away.”

“Unless you need the target to come to you.” The girl finished the formal scout’s words. She slowly made her way down the cliff into the tall brushes. Katie could feel her heart beating with exhilaration as she stalked the beasts.

By far she’d pushed herself harder as she struggled to approach the large bulls without causing a small noice. A twig snap, a slip of the foot on a rocky edge, anything that fate seemed to throw at Katie for amusement. The bulls lifted their heads and turned towards her direction, their breaths visible rom the cold morning air. One of the bulls then started to trot towards Katie’s position. Katie had no choice but to emerge and made her way forward to the beast. The elk’s massive antlers swung towards her, she dodged them by rolling on the ground. She then withdrew her hidden blade and reached across to cut the bull’s neck. Hot blood splashed upon her face; yet it didn’t stop the elk in it’s tracks. She felt a sharp hood stomping on her leg. She withdrew her arm again and this time stabbed it at the base of the neck. A massive amount of weight crashed upon Katie. Her arm was still in the elk’s neck, yet it cried for release as the weight of it’s neck compressed against it, more blood drained from the neck down to her arms.

Thanks be to the heavens I didn't eat anything this morning.

Katie felt the limp elk’s head being removed from her as Kesegowaase pulled from it’s antlers. She withdrew her blade from the neck and hoisted herself from the ground. She noticed that the elk was an eighteen point with mass mussel.

The native assassin nodded his head. “You’d done well Katie, if you were a young huntress, a templar would of struck you dead before your blade would be withdrawn.”

Katie sighed in frustration. “Least I’d put up a fight Kesegowaase. And now we have meet for our brothers and the sailers. Rations are already scarce since King Loui and Georgie had been butting heads.”

Kesegowaase didn’t say anything, his silence pierced the air. He then withdrew his hunting knife and started to skin the elk. Katie withdrew her knife as well and assisted in skinning the massive mammal. She could hear Kesegowaase utter a phrase in his native language, Probably a moment of thanks to whatever force he believes in. As she pulled the hide from the elk, she said in her mind, Thank you for your body. For providing food and whatever it can give. Now return to your creator in peace.  

Kesegowaase then sent Katie to fetch their horses as they hoisted the animal up a tree to drain the blood and removed the rest of the hide from the animal. The native removed the head and tied it upon his saddle, the mass antlers made the horse look like a small pony in comparison. Katie but the meats apart and wrapped them in some cheesecloth that was in her saddlebag. When both master and student were pleased with their work, they rode back towards the homestead.

“Ah. The little lamb has found her way here!”  

Katie rolled her eyes with a scuff. Ever since she joined the brotherhood, the french captain had always called her that title for being in terms “innocent child”. She then started to unload her saddlebags of all the meat. “This “lamb” managed to bring a bull large enough for our “brothers” to feast on Captain.”

“From the looks of your clothes you must of escaped a butcher shed.”

Katie looked down to see her bloodied apprentice robes.

“You best better clean up Katie. The mentor wants to speak to you of important matters before you head back to your herbs and potions.”  

Katie did just that, after deliveringg the meat to the main kitchen then she washed herself of the blood from her face and removed her robes. She dressed in a simple grey and blue dress and pulled her hair into a braid.

That evening, Katie, Achillies, Liam, and Telmenbatch (another assassin from New York) sat down to a meal of elk prime with potatoes, mushrooms, and roasted cabatch. Throughout the evening Katie and Telmenbatch reported the mass reports of explosions on assassin factories and buildings. She also reported that Monro had been active with his army in the Canadian and New England shores, or so she’d been told.

Achilles just sat and listened to all the reports, his face as hard as stone.  

When the super was finished and Katie was about to make her journey back to New York, Achilles handed her a wrapped parcel, it’s rectangular shape looked to be shaped like a jewelry box. The mentor’s eyes looked hard upon Katie as he instructed her. “You must keep this with you at all times Katie. Let no one ever see it or question it’s purpose, until the right moment is upon us.”

Katie lifted the parcel lightly, checking it’s weight. After being satisfied that it weighed no more then a few apples together, she looked at Achilles and asked, “Aye Mentor. But dare if I ask, what is contained in here?”

Achilles raised an eyebrow in thought. His dark eyes distant in thought. “I cannot say anything at this time. Just take this box, and never uncover it’s secrets! Do you understand the task at hand?”

Katie gave a nod and packed it into her rough sack.

As she was about to step out of the front door, Liam stopped Katie in her tracks, he pulled out another wrapped parcel and placed it into her sack. “Whenever your day comes Katie, you can open it then. Safe journey lass.”  

“Thank You, Liam. You be careful as well.” The young woman replied, she lifted her sack over her shoulders and started to make her way down the road from Davenport.

Katie decided to take the road this time, for the spring weather was to beautiful to be spent on a ship.

The day before, the twenty second day of April was her twentieth birthday. She normally would have a glorious meal of roasted goose since she and Cassidy shared a birthday month, only to be two weeks apart; however the assassin’s assignments forced her to adjured the tradition until she returned to New York. Katie felt the paper wrapped items the Liam and Achilles had pressed into her sounders. One of them Katie could feel was a small wooden box, two of the corners tearing through the paper and pressed against her shoulders.

Just get this box and never uncover it’s secrets Was all she could think of.

Katie wanted to stop for a moment, if only to see the contents of what she suspects to be the precursor box; but she never wanted to risk getting into more trouble.

Curiosity kills the cat after all. Better to be killed by that then a templar. Could be a Pandora’s box?

But there was one package she could open.

Katie stopped underneath a giant oak tree, and pulled out the parcel that Liam had given her. How did he know about Katie’s birthday? How do these assassin masters know so much? She untied the string and pulled apart the brown parchment. Laying folded was a long dark grey robe with a hood. It was edged around with grey threads giving a floral line pattern around the cuffs of the sleeves and the edges below by the feet. As she opened the novel to read the title, The Adventures of Arabella by Charlotte Lennox, she also noticed that the pages were marked with dried flowers pressed into the pages. A note was placed within the center of the spine. She took it as read it,

Achilles wanted to present these robes to you properly, but we all know that time is not always on our side. You have proven yourself to be a resurrection of the creed. You and I will be on a mission soon within two months possibly; but in the mean time, continue what you do until you hear word from Achilles.

As for the novel, I understand that this month is your birthday, I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

Liam

Katie touched the robes, surely this was recently made new just for her. Most of the assassin robes were passed down from fallen comrades or were recycled from the clothes, that is after Abigail’s death. This must of been the last set of robes she had ever made, before the fever took her and little Connor. Katie packed the robes and book deep into her rough sack, picked herself up and headed to New York.

[acrouge-walkintwoworlds]

The cover made by the amazing Sonala http://sonala.deviantart.com/ Features Katie shepherd and the Morrigan. Art © Sonala http://sonala.deviantart.com/

[acrouge-walkintwoworlds]

Chapter 1 rewriting and chapter 2 addition needed

Based on looking through the first two chapters and looking at the timelines of the games, I will rewrite the first two chapters. Respect revised soon.