Voyage Home

Callum ran his hands around the slender waist and down over Dustin’s mounds gripping them tightly and squeezed as the two of them worked each other’s mouths. The kiss was so deep and intense, Dustin was moaning softly which drove Callum on further. They both paused as there was a knock on the door. Callum pulled back slowly, Dustin was able to catch his breath finally. There was another knock.

“If that is Thomas, I am going to break his other arm.” Callum growled as he let Dustin go. He looked into Dustin’s deep brown eyes, “Don’t go anywhere.” Callum said, then turned toward the door. He stepped over to it and opened it quickly. He was surprised by who was there.

“I hope I am not intruding.”

“Lt. Marston. This is unexpected. What can I do for you?” Callum asked. Dustin stepped into view, Marston saw him now.

“Mr. Perkins.” Marston said with a nod in Dustin’s direction. He looked back at Callum as Callum stepped out of the way of the door.

“Lieutenant.” Dustin said with a nod.

“Won’t you come in?” Callum asked.

“Thank you, Captain.” Marston said, stepping into the room, Callum closing the door behind him.

“Admiral.” Dustin said.

“I beg your pardon?” Marston asked.

“They promoted him today.” Dustin said.

“I see. I had not heard. Congratulations, sir.” Marston said as he looked back and forth between Callum and Dustin.

“It is quite alright, Lieutenant.” Callum said as he stepped around in front of Marston, “What brings you here?”

“I was sent by Lord Eldon, sir, to collect you.” Marston said.

“Collect me? For what?” Callum asked as he cocked his head slightly.

“Your presence is requested at The Tower, sir.” Marston said. Callum looked at Dustin and then back to Marston.

“The Tower? What for?” Callum asked.

“I couldn’t say, sir. I was only sent to collect you.” Marston said, “There is a carriage downstairs waiting, sir.” Dustin stepped forward and came next to Callum.

“Does it have to do with Lord Upton?” Dustin asked.

“I really don’t know, Mr. Perkins, I’m sorry.” Marston said, “Lord Eldon did say that it was important however and that I was to hurry.”

“Very well, Lieutenant.” Callum said, “I will join you in a minute then.”

“Of course, sir.” Marston said. He stepped to the door, opening it, then looked at Dustin, giving him a nod, “Mr. Perkins.”

“Lieutenant.” Dustin said, giving a slight smile and a nod as well. Marston stepped out of the door, closing it behind him. Dustin turned and looked back. Callum was at the bed, pulling on his jacket, “I’m coming with you.”

“I should not be long.” Callum said, getting the suit jacket just right, then pulled his tail out and tossed it behind him, “You needn’t trouble yourself. More than likely it is something rather trivial.”

“What else could it be but Upton?” Dustin asked as he stepped to Callum, putting a hand on Callum’s elbow. Callum looked at him.

“More than likely you are right, but I want nothing to do with it. I am only going because it is a summons from Lord Eldon. I owe him that much at least.” Callum said.

“Agreed. But, what if it is something more?” Dustin asked, “I have been with you every step of the way in this and you know that, Quintan.”

“You’re right, you have. And I love you for that.” Callum said, turning to face Dustin. He put his hands on Dustin’s shoulders and smiled warmly at the love of his life, “Alright, if you wish to go, who am I to argue?” Callum leaned forward and kissed Dustin softly and quickly, “Get your jacket, The Tower can be a rather cold place.”

“You have been there before?” Dustin asked.

“Yes.” Callum said softly.

“I didn’t know.” Dustin said.

“There are a great many things that you don’t know, for I have not told you, yet.” Callum smiled out of the corner of his mouth.

“I think we need to have a talk then.” Dustin smiled as he raised an eyebrow.

“We will.” Callum answered, “Part of my wanting to keep you informed and correct my shortcomings.” Callum said and winked. Dustin gave him a smirk then reached for his own suit jacket.

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The Tower of London, a dark and foreboding place on the Thames River. Built originally in the time of William the Conqueror as a place of not only defense, but as a symbol of William’s power, primarily to guard against any possible invasion from the Thames. The open carriage pulled up to the front gate and was stopped. Marston, who was sitting on the seat opposite Callum and Dustin, pulled out a letter written on good parchment, handing it over to the guard. He opened it and read it, then handed it back to Marston.

“The White Tower, sir.” The guard said, looking toward the gate, “Take the passage first on your left, sir. You may leave to carriage stopped in the drive in front.”

“Thank you.” Marston said. He turned his head and looked half up the back of the driver, a Regular in full uniform, “The White Tower, Timmons.”

“Yes, sir.” The driver said, giving the reins a soft snap. The two horses started forward with the carriage being pulled along.

“You have been here before, Lieutenant?” Callum asked.

“I have, sir.” Marston said and wrinkled his brow, “I have never cared for it, sir.”

“Neither have I.” Callum said under his breath. Dustin heard him and started looking back and forth between them.

“Why not?” Dustin asked.

“The smell.” Marston said.

“What smell?” Dustin asked. As soon as the question was asked, the sounds could start to be heard. Dustin was looking about and then looked up on the parapet of the wall. He saw something move, but wasn’t sure what it was. Then he could start to smell it, “What is that?” Dustin asked.

“The Menagerie.” Marston said flatly.

“What?” Dustin asked turning his attention fully back to Marston.

“Animals, Mr. Perkins, exotic animals from different regions of the world.” Marston said, “Gifts from other nations to our past Kings and Queens. They are kept here as there is no other place to really keep them.”

“What kind of animals?” Dustin asked and a roar could be heard. Dustin’s eyes went wide as the roar came close to terrifying him, “What in God’s name was that?”

“That would be either a lion or a Jaguar, I think they are called.” Marston said.

“I have never seen either one before.” Dustin said.

“The lions are kept in a large pitted area surrounded by bars, but it is the Jaguar you need to be wary of. I understand they are quite sneaky and will slip up behind you without even being heard. They will take you from behind if they are loose.” Marston said.

“Loose?” Dustin asked, “What is a Jaguar?”

“A very large cat.” Marston said, “He weighs about what you do, Mr. Perkins. Their teeth and claws are very large as well.” Dustin sat back and looked a bit nervous, he swallowed hard.

The carriage made the turn through the parapet and started up a slight grade. Dustin could see a large building to the right on a grassy knoll. There were windows all about it, and stone steps that led up to a set of doors. The carriage came closer and came to a stop. Marston stood, opening the carriage door, stepping out, not waiting for the driver. Callum stood and followed Marston out, Dustin slowly rose, looking all about where they were, following close behind Callum. Marston closed the carriage door as Dustin was still surveying their surroundings and then he saw them and his eyes went wide.

“What are those?” Dustin asked and pointed toward several creatures coming toward them, one had many colors about his nose and face. To Dustin, it was as if they had almost human features. Marston looked to where Dustin was pointing.

“Those are Baboons.” Marston said, Callum turned and looked as well.

“From the south of Africa.” Callum said, “They will not approach. If they did, they could easily tear you limb from limb.”

“Truly?” Dustin asked with wide eyes.

“Yes. They are very powerful, very deadly.” Callum said, “Stay close, don’t stray off.”

“Why would they keep dangerous beasts out and about like that?” Dustin asked.

“Better than having armed men about, I would say.” Callum said, then looked over at Marston, “I mean no offense, Lieutenant.”

“None taken, sir. I actually agree with you on that point.” Marston said. He stepped away and started up the grass toward the building. Callum followed, Dustin right beside him. They went up the steps to the doors and Marston opened the one on the right, “Welcome to The White Tower, gentlemen.” Marston said. He closed the door behind them and turned. There were two Regulars there, standing at rigid attention. Marston came around Callum and stepped to them, “Where is Lord Eldon?”

“He is above, sir, on the third floor.” One of the Regulars said.

“Very good.” Marston said, then looked back at Callum and Dustin, “If you gentlemen will follow me?” Marston asked and started walking. He went to a stone staircase and started up, Callum behind him, Dustin following. They went up the various levels and ended at the third floor, stepping into a dimly lit corridor, lit by lanterns only. The air about them was chilly. The stone made it that way. Callum saw a small group of men gathered at the far end. They approached them slowly and one of the men stepped away from the others and came toward them. Callum smiled slightly as he recognized him.

“Captain Callum. Thank heavens you have come.” The older soft voice said as he drew closer to them.

“My Lord.” Callum said, giving a slight bow of his head.

“Mr. Perkins, a pleasure to see you again.” Lord Eldon said extending his hand forward. Dustin stepped up and took it, “But I was not expecting you.”

“My Lord.” Dustin said, taking the hand in his, giving it a firm grasp, along with his own formal bow of his head. He straightened and looked at Lord Eldon, “I was rather insistent that I come as well, My Lord.”

“Hmmm, so much the better possibly.” Lord Eldon said as he took back his hand. He looked at Callum directly.

“Why am I here, My Lord?” Callum asked.

“It is Lord Upton that has actually summoned you, Callum. He is more than insistent upon speaking with you. He says it is a grave matter.” Lord Eldon said.

“I have nothing to say to him, My Lord.” Callum said.

“He has something to say to you, Callum, obviously.” Lord Eldon said, “I have been questioning him, but, he will not give any further information until he speaks with you. There is much that we still need to find out about. I am sorry, but I need to ask you to do this, my boy.”

“What more do you need, My Lord? His guilt is more than apparent in all of this.” Callum said.

“I agree with you in that, Callum. With the information that we have already, his guilt is very clear, but, we do not have his accomplices in this.” Lord Eldon said. He stepped closer to Callum, looking him in the eye, “I need names of those men. They need to be found, stopped, brought to justice for this to end completely. Would you not agree?” Lord Eldon asked.

“I see your point in this, My Lord.” Callum said after a long moment of thought. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly through his nose, “Alright, I will speak with him then.”

“Thank you, my boy.” Lord Eldon said. He put a hand on Callum upper arm and then pat it gently. Lord Eldon turned and stepped toward the group of men. There were three there, all Regulars. They all snapped to full attention. Callum and Dustin smiled to themselves as they recognized one of them, Evan Marston, who had driven them and assisted in capturing Atch at Lord Upton’s manor. They all looked at each other for a moment as Lord Eldon stepped to the door and opened it. He stepped inside, Callum followed him inside, Dustin following as well.

“Roland,…he is here, as you asked.” Lord Eldon said. The man at the window stood there, his hands behind his back, one resting in the other making a solid fist. Callum could see there was no movement from him at all, “Roland?” Lord Eldon asked.

“I will speak with Quintan alone.” The icy voice said without looking back toward the group.

“I have answered a summons from Lord Eldon. I am only here because of that. Say what you need to say and be done with it.” Callum said.

“Proud and stubborn to the last I see.” Upton said, still not moving.

“Say what you have to say or I am leaving.” Callum said. He crossed his arms over his chest as he stared at the back of the man at the window. The head slowly turned toward the left but did not look fully in Callum’s direction.

“Just like your father I see as well. So forceful, so full of yourself, just as he was.” Upton said. His voice was chilling beyond all others that Dustin had ever heard before, “But you are not alone, are you, Quintan?”

“No, of course not.” Callum said, not changing his stance. Lord Upton slowly turned, bring his hands before him and looked about at the assemblage in the room.

“You must be Dustin Perkins.” Upton said. His voice was more than chilling to Dustin, sending a wave through his entire body like a sharp knife, “Helmsman and companion, confidant as well from what I understand. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Upton said. The eyes narrowed upon Dustin, “I am not the monster than I am made out to be, young sir.”

“That remains to be seen.” Dustin said.

“I like him, Quintan. He has his own mind and knows how to speak it.” Upton said. Again, his voice was chilling to the very core.

“What is it that you want of me?” Callum asked.

“Why must you always be so business like, Quintan?” Upton asked as he focused directly on Callum, “I had had a thought that we could have a bit of a chat, there is so much to tell you, but apparently not. Very well then.” The older man said, turning back once again to face the window, “I will tell you what I want.” Upton said as he clasped his hands once again behind his back, “I want my freedom from this. And I am going to make certain that you are going to give it to me.”

“Think again,…My Lord. There is nothing that you can say or do that will let that happen.” Callum said.

“Oh, but there is, Quintan.” Upton said. His chilling voice was even and did not falter once, “I understand that you have a son, a son to be proud of.”

“What about him?” Callum asked as he narrowed his eyes.

“If I am not released from here, in time to send a message, you might not have that son for much longer.” Upton said. His stance never changed. His words cut into Callum and choked his heart up into his throat, “You see, I see it as that you owe me a life, Quintan.” Upton said. He paused long enough to have his words sink in and cut even further, “Your son’s life for my freedom. It is a small price to pay, Quintan, surely you must see that.” Upton said matter of fact, no emotion came from him at all.

“You are a monster.” Dustin said as he stepped forward once beside Callum, “He’s only a boy.”

“Yes, Mr. Perkins, he is. It would be nothing for me to end him at all. His life has barely begun hasn’t it?” Upton asked as his attention focused on something below on the grounds.

“You’re bluffing.” Callum said, “My son is under protection and cannot be reached by you or anyone sent by you.”

“Yes, by your 3rd Lieutenant, your elderly aunt, and then there is that stableman as well, I understand.” Upton said. His words sent a chill down Callum’s spine. Upton raised a hand and pointed his finger in the air, “I will have my way, or there will be consequences, Quintan, mark me.”

“And if I do what you ask?” Callum asked.

“Then I will stop those that were supposed to carry out this,…task.”

“You son-of-a-bitch.” Dustin said.

“I know what you’re thinking right at this moment, Mr. Perkins. You’re thinking that you should have killed me when there was a chance to do so, but that failed. There were so many other chances to do so, but, they were never acted upon,…were they, Quintan?” Upton asked.

“What you ask of me is impossible. You know that.” Callum said.

“Do I?” Upton asked, “I will give you a small reminder if I may. What you did at La Rochelle was almost impossible. Killing Smythe the way that you did was almost impossible as well. And then there was his brother, Ezri. An incredible swordsman they say, as well as Colonel Holt. But you seem to have been able to defeat them both. Shall I go on?” Upton asked. His head slowly and slightly turned again to the left, “You are famous for doing the impossible, Quintan. What I ask is small in comparison to all of that. Remember, your son’s life now hangs in the balance.”

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“Oh my God. Is that really true, Grandfather?” Dustin asked as he leaned forward a bit on the ottoman next to the chair, “He threatened Father’s life?”

“He did.” The old man said and looked at his grandson, “It almost killed me at that very moment, to hear his words. I was powerless to do anything about it.”

“What happened, sir?” Andrew asked as he stopped writing in his notebook. The old man shifted his eyes and looked at him.

“That will soon be revealed, my boy.” The old man said and then paused a long moment, “I feel that I need to lie down for a bit. All of this has drained me more than it should.”

“Of course, Grandfather. May I help you?” Dustin asked as he saw a bit of color drain from the old man’s face. The old man shifted and struggled a bit to get up from the chair.

“If you wouldn’t mind.” The old man said. Dustin got up from the ottoman and helped the old man to his feet, “Thank you, my lad.” The old man said softly. He looked over at Andrew on the settee, “We will continue this a bit later, I think.”

“Of course, sir.” Andrew said as he rose up from the settee, putting his notebook aside, “May I be of any help as well?” Andrew asked.

“I think we can manage, thank you.” The old man said as Dustin walked with him slowly, going across the room toward the little hallway. Andrew watched as they moved slowly until they were out of sight going around the corner from the stairs. Andrew sat back down, picking up his notebook, opening it and reread what he had written. He lifted his eyes and looked toward the hallway, then back to the notebook. He heard the door close to the room and then looked up seeing Dustin come back into the parlor, coming toward him.

“He will probably sleep for some time.” Dustin said, “Would you care for coffee?”

“We might need something stronger if he says what I think he might say.” Andrew said.

“What do you mean?” Dustin asked as he came to the settee.

“Just this,” Andrew said and looked down at his notebook, “he said that your father’s life was in jeopardy. A life for his freedom as the Captain owed him that in his view.”

“Yes, I remember, but my father is very much alive.” Dustin said as he sat down next to Andrew.

“Yes, he is,” Andrew said, “but was there an attempt made to take his life? I wonder if your father knows. It might be interesting to get his perspective on this as well.” Andrew said as he looked at Dustin.

“All you need do is ask.” The voice came from the kitchen doorway. Dustin and Andrew both jumped a bit and looked in that direction. Henry, Dustin’s father, stood there.

“Father.” Dustin said.

“Told you, did he?” Henry asked.

“Not quite, sir.” Andrew said, “He stopped before he said anything further.”

“Where is he?” Henry asked.

“He is lying down, Father.” Dustin said as he rose to his feet, “It seems to be draining him to recount it.”

“I can understand that.” Henry said and smiled briefly, only a moment, “That coffee smells wonderful, Dustin.”

“Let me get you some, Father.” Dustin said. He quickly crossed the room and slipped by his father, going into the kitchen. Henry was just staring at Andrew on the settee.

“You have questions, Andrew.” Henry said, then turned into the kitchen. Andrew got up off the settee and crossed the room, following the older man.

“I do, sir.” Andrew said as he came into the kitchen, stopping short at the edge of the table. Dustin handed his father a cup of coffee.

“Thank you.” Henry said. He turned slightly and went to the table. He sat at the end of the table near the back door. Andrew and Dustin looked at each other a moment and then back toward the older man, “I should let him tell you actually.” Henry said as he stared at the coffee cup before him, “It was rather a confusing affair for a small boy. I don’t recall many of the details of it.”

“What happened, Father?” Dustin asked as he came close to his father, “You have never spoken of this before.”

“No, and for good reason.” Henry said softly without looking up, “Men died that night, that much I do remember.”

“Who died, Father?” Dustin asked as he slipped into the chair at the table. He reached out a hand and put it on the back of his father’s that rested on the table.

“I do not know who they were, I never found out.” Henry said and lifted his eyes, “But I do remember, they had a stench about them, something that I had not smelled in quite some time.”

“What was the smell, sir?” Andrew asked as he sat at the end of the table, moving slowly. Henry shifted his gaze to Andrew.

“That smell of stale and rotting that you smell sometimes from the edge of the sea. There is nothing else like it and you remember it, you always remember it. I caught that smell that night, after dark. I was with Owen.” Henry said softly.

“Owen Muir?” Dustin asked and his father only nodded.

“One of my father’s best friends.” Henry said and then smiled slightly, “I liked Owen very much. He was a very strong and gentle man. He taught me much, until he passed. That was a sad day.”

“When he passed?” Dustin asked. Henry nodded in reply. Dustin pat his father’s hand.

“That night, sir, what happened?” Andrew asked softly. Henry shifted his eyes again.

“You must understand that I had not seen my father in some time. He was always gone, leaving me alone here.” Henry said, “Oh there were others here with me, your namesake for instance,” Henry said, looking back to his son, “Aunt Martha, Owen, and others. But it was my father that was always gone, and it was always my father that I always missed the most. I felt alone.”

“I’m sorry, Father.” Dustin said softly.

“Nothing to be sorry over, my son.” Henry said, taking his hand and putting it over Dustin’s giving it a squeeze, “That is why I took great pains to make certain that I raised you and your brothers differently. I wanted to be there with you all.”

“You always were, Father.” Dustin said and smiled warmly.

“I tried my best.” Henry said, returning the smile.

“I had no complaints about growing up here.”

“This has always been a good place, an almost magical place. It saddened me to leave here when I went off to school.” Henry said. He shifted his eyes toward Andrew again, “I apologize, my boy. You had questions about what happened that night.” Henry said and shifted a bit in the chair, “Ask your questions.”

“You did not know who they were, but you knew the smell of them. How did you know?” Andrew asked.

“As you might know, my father had brought me here after finding me in the streets of Portsmouth.” Henry said and Andrew nodded, “There were times when I was down at the waters edge to try and find something just to eat. The stench of the sea was always there, especially on warmer days. I could find mussels or small crabs about on the rocks, close to the docks. When the ships would leave there were always more about than when they were docked. But it was always that smell that I remembered.”

“I had no idea about the way it was for you, Father.” Dustin said softly. His eyes welled a bit hearing it all.

“I did quite well for myself at times. I had learned to be clever about it. My greatest challenge in it all was the birds however.” Henry said and flashed his eyes, “They would circle over my head and swoop down to try and take what I had caught. I remember clearly that they would peck my neck very hard almost knocking me down. Sometimes it was quite a fight. I remember some of the sailors on the docks. They would laugh and carry on when they would watch it happen. Thinking back on it now, I believe that some of them were even wagering on who would win.” Henry said and smirked a bit.

“That is rather cruel on their part, sir.” Andrew said, “Wagering against a small boy like that.”

“I agree with you, Andrew, it is rather cruel, but it was my lot in life at that time. I accepted it. I had no choice but to.” Henry said.

“Until Grandfather came?” Dustin asked. Henry nodded and smiled.

“I remember that first day when I met him, all of them. Your namesake and Thomas were with him. It was actually Thomas that I tried to win over first by trying to carry a small trunk that he had purchased. I was hoping to be able to earn a penny or two from doing it. That would buy me something to eat from a merchant.” Henry said and smiled, losing himself in the memory of it, his voice trailing off a bit. Dustin and Andrew fell silent and still and waited a long minute. Henry brought himself out of the memory and looked at them both, “I am sorry, I was a bit lost it seems. What was I saying?”

“You met Grandfather that one day.”

“Yes. He persuaded Thomas to let me take the trunk and carry it to the inn that they were staying at, the Heritage Arms. It was owned by a friend of your grandfather’s, Farrow Dunhill. I knew him all too well. He did not tolerate any person that lived off the street. In fact, I had been beaten once or twice by him with a broom in the alley behind when he caught me going through the rubbish.” Henry said and shook his head a bit, “That day, I slipped into the Heritage and took the trunk up to Thomas’ room. Your grandfather gave me a shilling for my labor and then brought me downstairs to the tavern and we all had a luncheon together. That was the first day and by far, my best day up to that time. I remember waking up in a bed, it was dark. I left shortly after that as I recall. It was a few days until I met your grandfather again, but he was alone that time. That was when he brought me here to live.”

“So sad.” Dustin whispered. A tear dropped from his eye. Henry smiled at him and pat his hand.

“I don’t think so, Dustin. In fact, I look back on it and I have to think it made me a stronger person for what I went through. I appreciated things more because of it, simple things like warm clothes, a dry bed, something good to eat. There are so many that have none of that at all. I was the lucky one. Had it not been for your grandfather, his kind heart, I might not have survived. I had lost sight of that until you showed me the way and my mistake for forgetting where I came from. For that, I thank you, my son.” Henry said, “As to that night, I remember it was getting late. I had been with Owen for most of the day. We were at the barn tending the horses. When we were done, we went to Harbroughs to light the lanterns in the house and Owen was going to walk me back here to the Cross. We came in the back door, into the kitchen, and I caught that smell, the smell of the sea. It was dark and then I heard them.”

“You do remember.” The old man said from the doorway of the kitchen. Henry looked up and saw his father standing there, “We never really spoke of it, did we?”

“No, Papa, we did not.” Henry said. Andrew turned in his chair, looking over his shoulder. Dustin looked as well, “You are correct, I do remember a little of it, but not all. It was always confusing to me but I felt that I did not dare ask, especially after I saw you and what you did that night.”

“They were here to take your life, Henry, it is as simple as that. I would not allow it to happen. Any father would have done the same thing as I did, any father.” The old man said as he slid around the table, sitting down across from Dustin, to Henry’s left.

“There is no other man like you, Papa, and you know that as well as I. Do not feign to think differently.” Henry said. The old man raised an eyebrow as he looked at his son.

“Does that bother you, Henry?” The old man asked. Henry smiled out of the corner of his mouth.

“It did for quite some time, yes. I had difficulty with it when at school, Papa. There were those that thought that I was cut from the same cloth as you and sought to prove themselves against me because of it. You were almost a legend to most parts of the country, and larger than life. It was hard to live that down.” Henry said.

“I never knew that.” The old man said.

“Of course not, but Dustin did. I told him and he understood.” Henry said, “We would have long talks over it when I came home for holidays.”

“I am sorry, Henry.” The old man said.

“There is nothing to be sorry over, Papa. You were who you were.” Henry said, “As I grew older, I began to understand, but it angered me that you were always gone.” Henry paused a long moment, “That was what caused us to…drift apart as it were. And that was my fault.”

“To my mind, I have to think we were both to blame in all of that, but it was mostly me. I should have talked more to you and I didn’t.” The old man said softly looking at his son, “Dustin actually told me several times over the years that I was more than closed mouthed. Most of our arguments came from that actually.”

“Well, then it would seem that we need to change that.” Henry said and gave a brief smile.

“I am trying now, with all of this recounting with Andrew.” The old man said and smiled warmly. He pat the back of Henry’s hand twice then looked at Andrew, “But, I think that you need to know what led up to that night first.”

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“My Lord,” Callum said as he turned and looked at Lord Eldon, “I need the room if you please.”

“Callum, I…” Lord Eldon said with wide eyes.

“I assure you, My Lord, I will do nothing to undermine what is currently happening.” Callum said, his voice firm as was his stance. Lord Eldon thought a moment, his eyes narrowed a bit.

“As you wish. We will be outside.” Lord Eldon said. Dustin looked at Callum, his face had more than concern all over it. Callum looked back at him, his handsome features and nodded slowly. Dustin silently understood. Marston went to the door, opening it and holding it. Lord Eldon turned and went out, Dustin turned and followed slowly, Marston looked Callum once, giving him a questioning look and then stepped out, closing the door behind him.

“My point has been proven yet once again, Quintan.” The icy voice said behind Callum’s back.

“I should kill you where you stand.” Callum said without looking at the older man.

“That will not solve anything and you well know it, Quintan.” Upton said. He turned and went back to the window, looking out of it, his hands going behind his back again, “You will secure my release as easily as you cleared the room just now.”

“What guarantee do I have that you will send this message?” Callum asked as he turned to look at the back of Upton.

“You have my word.”

“Your word?” Callum asked, “The word of a murdering madman?”

“You think I am mad?” Upton asked slightly cocking his head.

“Of course I do.” Callum said, “Look at what you have done.”

“I have done what was necessary, Quintan.” Upton said with his chilling voice, “Surely you can see that.”

“All I see is a power-hungry man that used his influence and money to murder those that stood in his way.” Callum said.

“And my way would be better.”

“I think not. If I were to leave now then,…”

“You would never reach him in time to save him, Quintan.” Upton said. Callum stopped and thought a moment.

“They are already there, aren’t they?” Callum asked. Upton remained silent. Callum boiled inside with rage. Callum leaped forward, grabbing the older man, spinning him, grabbing him by the throat, pushing him against the heavy glass, getting into his face, “Who are they? How many?” Callum growled. Upton smiled out of the corner of his mouth, Callum growled in his throat, tightening his grip slightly, “You will send that message.”

“I will have to be released first, Quintan, that message must be given face to face.” Upton said, his voice straining a bit. Callum released his grip, but stayed face to face with him, “You see, I thought of everything and you cannot stop this.”

“If that is true, then what would keep me from going to Birmingham right now?” Callum asked.

“You are being watched. If you or your young companion attempt to leave London, your son will be ended before you could get halfway there.” Upton said.

“You are a monster.” Callum growled. He backed up a step and Upton straightened.

“I will have my way, Quintan, you have no choice in that.” Upton said. Callum backed up another step. His rage was consuming him. He knew he had to think, “Lord Eldon now knows. All you need do is act.”

“He will never allow it and you know it.” Callum said.

“Do I?” Upton asked, “Think for a moment if you will, Quintan. Everything that you have done up to this moment has given you great power. Lord Eldon knows this as well. He could not refuse you if you were to ask.” Callum watched the face of the man before him, the eyes, cold and calculating.

“I will not ask until you give me more reassurance that my son will not be harmed.” Callum said.

“My word is not good enough for you? I am insulted, Quintan.” Upton said, again giving a half smile.

“I don’t care if you are insulted or not. I want more than just your word in this. I want the name of the man you need to see. I want to know how many there are that you have sent.” Callum said, his voice firm.

“This could go on and on, Quintan, but you are running out of time.” Upton said.

“And so are you,…My Lord. High treason against the Crown is dealt with rather swiftly as I am sure you know, and in your case,…it will be swifter I have no doubt.” Callum said.

“You give them far too much credit, Quintan. They will be slow in this as they want more information from me and I will not give it to them.” Upton said.

“Yes, they do want that information, you are correct.” Callum said seeing a slight change in Upton’s look, those eyes not as calculating as they were a moment ago. Callum went over to the small table that was to his right, sitting on its edge but kept staring at Upton, “Tell me, what is it that Lord Eldon was asking about in his questioning?”

“You seem to be unconcerned about your son now, why is that?” Upton asked.

“It appears to me that I cannot do anything about saving him from this fate you have devised for him. So why not indulge me? For the moment at least.” Callum said, folding his arms over his chest and feigning a slight smile. Upton narrowed his look at Callum.

“It will not work, Quintan. You will not get anything from me.”

“I could ask Lord Eldon himself, I suppose. He is just right outside the door.” Callum said.

“What are you playing at, Quintan? Time is slipping away from you, as is your son.” Upton said.

“You did say that you wished to have a chat with me, did you not? There were so many things that you wanted to tell me, I think you said?” Callum asked, “The room is clear, there is no one here with us.”

“Alright. I will indulge you.” Upton said, his voice was chilling once again. He turned back to the window and looked out once again. Callum noticed it was always in the same direction at first, toward the southwest, “Eldon was asking about accomplices to my plans, names, and where they were.”

“Ramirez perhaps? Phelps?” Callum asked. Upton chuckled slightly.

“Phelps is nothing but a means to an end, Quintan, he and his father both. Ramirez on the other hand is something quite different.”

“What makes him so different?” Callum asked.

“I am certain you will find out on your own. I know that Lord Hood has tasked you to find him and try and stop him. You will not succeed in that, Quintan.” Upton said.

“Oh? I thought I was famous for doing the impossible.” Callum said.

“You play with my words, Quintan, and are trying to be clever.” Upton said, slightly turning his head, “Ramirez is unlike anyone you have ever dealt with before. There is no stopping him, I assure you.”

“Like there was no stopping Battenou, I suppose?” Callum asked.

“He was a madman and a fool, another means to an end.” Upton said.

“What makes Ramirez so unstoppable?” Callum asked.

“His heart,…he has none.” Upton said above a whisper.

“I don’t understand.”

“It is quite simple actually.” Upton said, turning slightly toward Callum, “He cares for nothing or no one. I selected him because of that. He is the perfect agent. He kills without remorse no matter who it is, men, women, children, none matter to him at all.”

“Another madman.” Callum said.

“Far from it, Quintan.” Upton said, turning fully now to look at Callum, “Madmen do not plan, they simply act according to what they think is indulging their natures or pleasures. Ramirez plans, Quintan.”

“What is his plan?” Callum asked.

“You will have to find that out for yourself, if you live long enough.” Upton said with a raised eyebrow.

“Clearly he was part of your plan and not just a means to an end.” Callum said.

“You are very clever, aren’t you?” Upton asked, “Should you be asking Lord Eldon to join us?”

“I think not.” Callum said, “I think that can wait a bit.”

“Why is that?” Upton asked.

“I don’t think our chat is quite over yet.” Callum said. Upton gave a smirk and turned back to the window. He again looked in the same direction, toward the southwest. Callum rose from the table edge, taking the few steps toward the back of the man, coming slightly to the right, looking out the window as well in the same direction, “It appears to me that the view from here must be quite exceptional.” Callum said. Upton turned his head slightly to the right and Callum saw it for a moment, a brief flash in the distance, the glint of glass with the sunlight upon it. Callum turned and bolted for the door. He pulled it open quickly and came through into the group standing there.

“You men, inside, now.” Callum said to the Regulars, “Watch him closely, don’t let him move.” The Regulars turned and went into the room behind Callum, “I need a glass, do you have one?” Callum asked Marston, who looked stunned for a moment.

“There might be one down in the carriage, sir.”

“Fetch it quickly and join me on the roof.” Callum said.

“Callum, what is it?” Lord Eldon asked as Evan Marston went for the glass after his older brother had given him a look and a nod.

“He is being watched, My Lord, from across the Thames.”

“What?” Lord Eldon asked.

“He told me that his message must be given face to face with someone. That someone is watching him right at this moment. That is why he continues to stand in the window, to be seen.” Callum said.

“Who is it?” Dustin asked.

“I don’t know, not yet.” Callum said, “Tell me, My Lord, who selected this room to hold him in?”

“He did.” Lord Eldon said and sighed heavily, “I have been played a fool.”

“All part of his plan, My Lord, it is not your fault, nor are you a fool.” Callum said.

“What about Henry?” Dustin asked.

“The threat to him is quite real, but if I’m right, we can stop it. We need to get to the roof.” Callum said. He turned and hurried down the corridor, going to the stone stairs, Dustin was right behind him as well as Lt. Marston. Callum took the stairs and started up quickly. Callum reached the door at the tower roof, opening it. He looked about before stepping out, seeing the direction he wanted and then looked back to Dustin and Marston, “Stay low and out of sight. We need to get to that parapet at that wall without being seen.” Callum said as he pointed. Dustin and Marston looked in that direction. Callum bent a bit and went across the roof, Dustin and Marston did as Callum did. Callum stopped at the edge of the wall and looked back toward the door. He saw Evan Marston and motioned him to stay down. Evan crouched, looked about and then came across the roof, joining the others.

“What are we looking for?” Dustin asked.

“The glint from a glass.” Callum said, taking the glass Evan handed to him. He extended it. Marston was looking carefully and then he saw it.

“There, sir. I saw it.” Marston said. Callum swung the glass carefully and followed the finger that was pointing.

“A rather large structure, looks like it could be a house. I see an open window but I don’t see anyone there.” Callum said. He saw the glint and then the glass itself, “There he is.” Callum said softly, “I can’t make out his face, he is in the shadow of the room.”

“I know that house.” Evan said. Dustin looked at him, “It’s a boarding house.”

“Who owns it?” Marston asked his brother.

“A retired Captain of the Marines and his wife.” Evan said.

“How do you know that?” Marston asked and his brother looked at him.

“I’ve stayed there before.”

“When?” Marston asked.

“What does it matter?” Evan asked.

“I’d like to know.” Marston said with a tone.

“If you two will stop your bickering, please, I’m trying to focus.” Callum said. Dustin smiled, then chuckled.

“Sorry, sir.” Marston said and cleared his throat softly.

“Evan, do you think you could get us in there?”

“Yes, sir, quite easily.”

“Alright then, let’s go.” Callum said, closing the glass. He handed it back to Evan. They went across the roof, crouched, but quickly and went through the door. They went quickly down the stairs and reached the third floor. Callum left them and went to Lord Eldon.

“What did you see, Callum?” Lord Eldon asked.

“Whoever he is, he is at a boarding house across the Thames on the upper floor. I could not make out his face. We are going there now, My Lord, and will return.” Callum said.

“Be careful, Callum. Bring whoever he is back here.” Lord Eldon said.

“I will, My Lord.” Callum said, bowing his head slightly. Callum turned and went quickly back down the hall.

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The carriage pulled to the side of the boarding house. It was indeed a tall structure, three stories in all and kept very nice to all appearances. Evan Marston rose and got out of the carriage, he waited on the walk for the others to join him and then started up the steps of the grand looking home. Evan opened the door and stepped in, the others followed. A finely dressed lady was standing there.

“Corporal Marston.” The lady said. Evan bowed his head toward her.

“Mrs. Fairfield, a pleasure to see you again.” Evan said. She looked about at all that were in her foyer.

“Thank you. If you have come for rooms, gentlemen, I am sorry but we have none available at this moment.” She said.

“We are not here for rooms, Mrs. Fairfield.” Evan said.

“Oh?” She asked. Callum stepped forward.

“No, Madame, we are looking for the person that is occupying the room on your upper floor.” Callum said.

“The upper floor, sir?” She asked.

“Yes, the highest floor of the house at the rear.” Callum said.

“There is no one staying up there…” She said but was cut off by another voice.

“Just who are you, sir?” The man asked as he stepped into the foyer. Callum looked at him.

“Callum, Quintan Callum.”

“Captain Fairfield, sir.” Evan said.

“Evan, a pleasure to see you again.” The man said giving Evan Marston a nod, his eyes shifted back to Callum, “You are not Captain Quintan Callum, are you?”

“I am.” Callum said. The man smiled out of the corner of his mouth and put out his hand.

“Captain Artemus Fairfield, Royal Marines, retired.” The man said. Callum took his hand giving it a firm grip.

“How do you do?” Callum asked.

“It is an honor to have you in our home, sir.” Fairfield said.

“Thank you.” Callum said as he took his hand back, “I wish it was under more pleasant circumstances however.”

“What is the trouble, Captain?” Fairfield asked.

“If there was time to explain it, I would, but there is not. There is someone on your upper floor at the rear of the house that we are here to apprehend.” Callum said. Fairfield looked at his wife, then back to Callum, “Please, I must insist that we go up. It is urgent.”

“By all means, gentlemen.” Fairfield said reaching out and gently pulling his wife out of the way.

“Artemus.” She said.

“I’m certain it is quite alright, my dear.” Fairfield said. He nodded toward Callum, “Go ahead, Captain.”

“Thank you.” Callum said as they all moved by the couple going for the stairs. They went up quickly and quietly, rounding the bannister, down a hall, then around another bannister, going up another flight of stairs to another landing. Callum looked about to get his bearings as there were three doors on this floor. Evan came through and pointed to the far door.

“That should be the room there.” Evan whispered to Callum. They all moved quietly to it, Callum looked at them as they gathered around him. Callum gave a nod, his hand going to the knob. He gripped it, turned it slowly, and then pushed the door open. The room was dark, only lit from the sunlight coming through the window at the far wall which was small. There was a man there, who held a glass. He turned quickly as the door swung open. Callum saw the glint and then heard the hammer go back. He pushed Dustin out of the way and ducked as the shot went off. The bullet ripped through the door jamb behind Callum. Callum launched himself at the man, grabbing him as Evan Marston and his older brother joined Callum. They all struggled and went to the floor in a heap. The man was powerful and broke free, getting to his knees. He swung and landed a fist squarely on Lt. Marston’s jaw, another to Evan, knocking him back as Callum got up, grabbing the shirt of the man, twisting it up in his left hand, sending his right fist into the face over and over with tremendous force, stunning the man and making him slump.

“Everyone alright?” Callum asked as he still held the man by the shirt with his left hand. Dustin came over after getting up off the floor.

“Yes, sir.” Marston said with a groan. Callum looked down at the man he held but could not see his face clearly. He drug him back to the window and grabbed the chin below him with his right, bringing up into the light. Callum growled in his throat when he saw who it was.

“Sullivan.” Callum growled.

“You know him, sir?” Marston asked as he got to his feet. He helped his brother up as well. Dustin came beside Callum and looked down at the face.

“He’s the man from the tavern, isn’t he?” Dustin asked.

“Michael Sullivan.” Callum growled, “Not it’s beginning to make sense.”

“What makes sense?” Dustin asked.

“How he knew so much about my sailing to capture the Avion. Renner, all of it.” Callum said. He took his other hand and put it to the shirt, twisting it up, lifting the slumped body a bit more, “You’re going to tell me everything.”

“I have nothing to say to you.” Sullivan said.

“The hell you don’t.” Callum said, letting go of his right, he pulled back and backhanded the face below him, knocking it one side, “How many are there after my son? Where are they?” Callum asked with a growl.

“Is that who it is? Had I known that he was your boy, I would have done the job for free.” Sullivan said and caught another vicious slap from Callum.

“Tell me!” Callum growled. Callum let go of the shirt and gripped the throat with his left hand, clutching tightly.

“I watched you do this to him as well.” Sullivan choked out.

“Tell me and I’ll let you live!” Callum growled and tightened his grip. Marston looked at his brother and then to Dustin.

“Mr. Perkins.” Marston said. Dustin looked at Marston briefly and then back down at the Irishman.

“Tell me you son-of-a-bitch!” Callum growled. Sullivan made choking sounds as the grip got tighter. Hands went to Callum’s wrists.

“Captain, Mr. Perkins.” Marston said a bit louder. Dustin was filled with almost as much rage as Callum at that moment but his thoughts took hold. He put his hand on Callum’s arm.

“Quintan,…Quintan, if you kill him, we’ll never find out.” Dustin said softly to Callum’s ear. Callum heard him and slowly let the Irishman go, letting him drop to the floor. Callum stood straight.

“Get this bastard down to the carriage.” Callum growled as Sullivan was gasping and coughing. Callum bent down and picked up the spent pistol and the glass as both Marston’s grabbed the body up off the floor, dragging him to the door. Dustin stood there watching Callum as Callum looked out the window toward The Tower.

“Are you alright?” Dustin asked softly. Callum did not answer at first. He turned slowly and looked at Dustin.

“Don’t ever stop me again.” Callum growled, Dustin narrowed his eyes at him.

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The door of the room in the White Tower swung open, both Marston’s drug in the slightly struggling man and dropped him to the floor. Callum came in, Dustin behind him, closing the door behind him. Upton turned from the window, his hands behind his back, looked down at man and raised a slight eyebrow. Lord Eldon rose from the rough chair at the small table.

“Your accomplice,…My Lord.” Callum said stepping toward Upton.

“I have no idea what you are talking about, Quintan.” Upton said, his voice in its chilling tone.

“Do not pretend you do not know him, it is beneath you.” Callum growled.

“Do you know who he is, Callum?” Lord Eldon asked.

“Michael Sullivan, My Lord. Supposedly he is a merchant sailor, but I have a suspicion that he is really an agent of Lord Upton’s.” Callum said, turning and came close to the man on the floor. He looked down at him and their eyes met. Sullivan’s face was still bruised from the previous beating that Callum had given him at the Boar’s Head, but now there were new marks on him as well.

“How do you know him?” Lord Eldon asked.

“We have had conversation before, My Lord, at my lodgings. He has spoken of certain details of my last sailing. Details that suggest he has more information than what could be considered common knowledge.” Callum said. Lord Eldon looked down at the man on the floor.

“Speak up. Is what the Captain says true?” Lord Eldon asked.

“I have nothing to say to you.” Sullivan spit out. Callum kicked him hard in the ribs making him groan loudly and fall flat.

“Answer him!” Callum yelled at the Irishman as he bent down.

“I have never seen this side of you, Quintan.” Upton said, “You show a bit of promise now.” Callum straightened and glared at Upton.

“We found him with these, My Lord.” Callum said, holding up the glass in one hand, the pistol in the other, “The room he was found in has a direct sight line with this window. With this glass, he can see everything that is happening. I believe that your prisoner was giving or going to give signals to this man after his release was secured.”

“What about this, Roland?” Lord Eldon asked Upton.

“I think our dear Quintan has quite an imagination.” Upton said.

“You know what I say to be true.” Callum said. He looked back down at Sullivan on the floor under him, “Are you going to tell me what I want to know?” Callum asked. The Irishman just pursed his lips at him forming a scowl, “You do know where you are, don’t you?” Callum asked, “This place is famous or infamous for being able to get information out of its…guests. Start talking.” Callum growled. Sullivan spit at Callum. Callum growled in his throat and stood straight. He cocked the hammer back on the pistol, “One more chance, Sullivan.” Callum growled.

“Very impressive, Quintan, but if you kill him, you will still have nothing.” Upton said. Callum looked at Upton as he pointed the pistol down at Sullivan.

“Who said anything about killing him?” Callum asked.

“Quintan!” Dustin said loudly as the pistol moved and went off. Sullivan screamed as the room filled with smoke. All eyes went wide as the body was writhing on the floor below Callum, Sullivan clutching his lower leg with both hands, blood leaking between the fingers.

“Tell me what I want to know or I will let you bleed to death.” Callum said as he knelt on his haunches. Sullivan screamed again, “Not exactly what I wanted to hear.” Callum said as looked at the face that was in agony.

“Callum, I must insist that you stop this.” Lord Eldon said. Marston went to move forward but was stopped by a look from Callum. Callum looked over his should up at a shocked Lord Eldon.

“I am sure that you must know that pain can drive a man harder than anything else, My Lord.” Callum said flatly, he turned his gaze down at the man on the floor, “Start talking, Sullivan, while there is still blood in your body.”

“He paid me!” Sullivan cried out.

“Paid you for what?” Callum asked.

“To watch you! Get me a doctor!” Sullivan cried as more blood was dropping all over the stone floor.

“In due time.” Callum said, “What about my son?”

“Say nothing else.” Upton said.

“Don’t listen to him, Sullivan. I’m the one that can get you a doctor, not him.” Callum said, “Now, what about my son?”

“I am to meet a man to tell him yes or no.” Sullivan said.

“Where? Where are you to meet him?” Callum asked, “What’s his name?”

“On the King’s Road. His name is Ebrow.” Sullivan said and cried out again, “Dear God, get me a doctor, please! You’ve shot half my leg off!”

“Where on the King’s Road? What does he look like?” Callum asked.

“Not another word.” Upton said, his tone was clear and unmistakable. Callum rose to his feet quickly, stepped toward Upton and backhanded him once, knocking him back.

“Sound advice.” Callum said, going back to Sullivan and knelt down. He grabbed a handful of hair and pulled the head back, “Tell me!” Callum growled.

“A tavern just outside of London.” Sullivan said with a groan.

“The King’s Guard.” Marston said.

“What does he look like?” Callum said, pulling the hair again.

“A sailor, tall, blinded in his right eye, with a patch over it.” Sullivan groaned.

“You’ll pay for this, Quintan.” Upton said as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. Callum let go of the hair and stood. He glared at Upton.

“Not before you do.” Callum said, “If anything happens to my son, I will come back here and perform your execution myself, slowly.” Callum stepped over Sullivan and handed the spent pistol to Marston, “Let’s go.” Callum said to Dustin.

“Callum.” Lord Eldon said as he stepped forward, making Callum stop and turn back toward him, “I should place you under arrest for this.”

“You may try, My Lord.” Callum said and looked about at Marston and the Regulars and then back to Lord Eldon, “I shall return once I know that my son is safe and secure. My Lord.” Callum said and bowed his head slightly. He turned and Dustin followed him.

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The Thoroughbreds that were used to pull the carriage that brought them to London had been saddled at the livery they were housed at. Callum and Dustin rode quickly to the Boar’s Head that was two streets over. Callum climbed down off the horse and looked up at Dustin who had not moved as of yet.

“What are you waiting for?” Callum asked.

“You would have let him bleed to death, wouldn’t you?” Dustin asked.

“Do you remember that night the Guardsmen attacked at Harbroughs?” Callum asked as Dustin nodded, “I questioned that Guardsman right there at the base of the stairs, do you recall?”

“Yes.” Dustin said softly, “It was chilling to watch you then as it was a bit ago.”

“I told you earlier, don’t try to stop me, and you didn’t. We have what we need to save Henry now.” Callum said.

“Is that your only motivation? To save Henry?” Dustin asked.

“It is the most important thing, don’t you think?” Callum asked. Dustin nodded, “Good. But something else has now come from this and what I have done.”

“What?” Dustin asked.

“Lord Eldon can now add attempted murder to the list of charges to Upton.” Callum said, “We are wasting time. We need to get out of these clothes and grab weapons.” Callum said and walked to the door of the tavern. Dustin climbed down and went in behind as Callum was going up the stairs. Dustin closed the door and started up behind him. Callum was stopped by Thomas before he reached the door.

“Where have you been?” Thomas asked.

“Come inside. I will explain while we change.” Callum said. Thomas looked and saw Dustin coming as well around the bannister and down the landing to the door. Thomas let Dustin in first and then came through, closing the door behind him. Callum was stripping off his suit, tossing it on the bed.

“What is going on?”

“Henry’s life is in danger.” Dustin said as he started stripping clothes as well.

“Dear God. How do you know?” Thomas asked as he watched them change clothes. Callum slipped a billow sleeved shirt over his head and reached for a long pair of his old pants.

“It’s a long story.” Callum said and as slipped them on, one leg at a time, pulling them up, tucking himself into them, then his shirt, buttoning up the flap in front, “We have been watched by Upton’s men. That mouthy Irishman, he was to meet someone and relay a message. Upton has sent men to kill Henry if I did secure Upton’s release.”

“You didn’t, did you?” Thomas asked.

“You think me an idiot?” Callum asked as he pulled on a boot and then stamped it on the floor. He reached for the other.

“No, why did I even ask?” Thomas asked out loud and rolled his eyes.

“We have to stop a man out on the King’s Road that is waiting right now. He is the relay. There are already men in Birmingham waiting for word from him. If we don’t get there in time, it may be too late.” Callum said as he stamped his other boot on the floor. He reached for his sword, taking the belt and putting it on.

“What can I do?” Thomas asked.

“You will wait here. We will return when it is over.” Callum said. He went over to the bureau and opened the top right drawer. He took out pistols that were resting inside and set them on the top. He reached back into the drawer and took out his wallet, he opened it and pulled out notes, handing them to Thomas.

“What is this for?” Thomas asked as the notes were put in his good hand.

“For you and Christian. In case something happens to me and I am not able to return, pay for all of our lodgings. When Christian is able to travel, come home.” Callum said.

“I have money you know.” Thomas said.

“I know you do, Thomas. Just take it and shut up, will you?” Callum asked giving him a wry look.

“I have learned not to argue with you.” Thomas said softly. He watched as Callum tucked two pistols in his belt, as Dustin stepped up near Callum, taking the other two, tucking them as well. Dustin looked at Thomas, “Do you have time to speak with Christian a moment?”

“I don’t think so.” Callum said, “Explain it to him for us, if you will.”

“I will.” Thomas said. Callum went by him and out the door. Dustin was stopped by Thomas, “Is he alright?” Thomas asked softly.

“I don’t think so. I have only seen him like this once before.” Dustin said.

“When was that?” Thomas asked.

“La Rochelle, when we were boarded.” Dustin said.

“Oh dear God.” Thomas said, “Stay close to him.” Dustin nodded and then walked out of the room.

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The horses were reined back just short of the tavern, the King’s Guard. Callum looked about as the horses were walked up to the side of the tavern. He did not see anyone outside, but sounds of revelry could be heard through the closed windows. It was now late afternoon, the sun was starting to get low in the sky. Dustin looked at Callum once and then followed along, taking the horses toward the rear of the building. Callum stopped his mount and climbed down.

“How do you want to handle this?” Dustin asked. He climbed down as well, coming close to Callum, tying off his own horse.

“You go inside through the front door. Take a look around. If you spot this sailor, come out and get me.” Callum said.

“Why don’t we go in together?” Dustin asked.

“I might be recognized and that wouldn’t do.” Callum said.

“Hadn’t thought of that.” Dustin said, he pulled out his pistols and handed them to Callum, who gave him a questioning look, “How many people do you know that go into a tavern armed?” Dustin asked.

“Not many.” Callum said as Dustin took off his own sword and draped it over the saddle.

“Neither do I.” Dustin said and started to walk away.

“Hey.” Callum said. Dustin stopped and looked back, “Be careful.” Callum said and Dustin smiled, giving a wink. He turned and went toward the front of the building, going around the corner out of sight. Callum looked around again and didn’t see anyone at all. He waited a few minutes, wondering what was going on and then Dustin came around the corner. He walked up to Callum.

“He’s in there. Patch over his right eye, but he’s not alone. There are several with him at the same table.” Dustin said.

“How many?” Callum asked.

“I counted five total.” Dustin said.

“There is only the one I want, the others can either stand aside or share in this one’s fate.” Callum said.

“You mean to kill him?” Dustin asked.

“He means to kill Henry, what do you think?” Callum asked as Dustin took his sword and put it back on. He took the pistols from Callum and put them in his belt, “I’ll go in the front, you go and see if there is a back-way in. I don’t want him slipping away.”

“What if he comes in my direction?” Dustin asked.

“Stop him. I’ll be on him in no time.” Callum said giving Dustin a nod. He turned and headed toward the front of the building. He went around the corner and went to the front door, opening it and going in.

The sounds of laughter and tankards hitting wood from being slapped down hard filled the stale air of the tavern. There was also a stench of wood smoke that had been there for quite some time. Callum looked about and saw a table that had a group of four at it. He did not see a man with an eye patch at first. Some of the patrons of the tavern looked up to see who had come in and saw that Callum was armed, those that saw him fell silent. Callum moved inside the tavern further, his eyes scanning for the man with the patch. Several were at the long counter where the tavern keeper was at, pouring ale from a pitcher into tankards. The tavern keeper looked up and saw Callum coming, he stopped pouring. Those men that were at the counter had their backs to Callum.

“Ebrow.” Callum said and the tavern fell silent. All at the counter turned and looked in Callum’s direction. The man with the eye patch was in their midst, his good eye went wide. He went to move, Callum moved as well. Some of the patrons moved to stop Callum, a couple were pushed out of the way before Callum was stopped by the rest and held allowing Ebrow to slip away. Callum struggled and then everything stopped when the shot went off.

“Back up.” Dustin said, pistol in hand, backing the man with the eye patch up into the middle of the tavern. Dustin came into view, switching the pistol to his other hand, drawing his sword with the other, “This has nothing to do with any of you, only Ebrow, now stand clear.” Dustin said. Callum smiled a bit, shaking the men off that held him. He stepped through them, pushing them about to get closer to this tall sailor. The man looked and saw Callum coming.

“Here now, no trouble in my house.” The tavern keeper said from where he was. Callum ignored him as he came close to the tall sailor, who was shrinking back away from Callum.

“What do you want?” The sailor asked.

“You.” Callum said as he grabbed him with both hands, pulling him forward.

“Do I know you?” The frightened sailor asked.

“Not yet.” Callum growled, “You were supposed to get a message.”

“You’re not Sullivan.” Ebrow said as he shrunk further back.

“You’re right, I’m not.” Callum said, “What if I was to tell you no?”

“I would be on my way to Birmingham.”

“And what if I was to tell you yes?” Callum asked.

“I would still have to go to Birmingham.”

“How? How were you to get there?” Callum asked.

“By coach.”

“What coach?” Callum asked.

“The northern coach that goes through Birmingham to Dudley.”

“That coach already left. It left late this morning.” Callum said, “What happens if you are not on it?” The sailor shrunk even more and shook his head rapidly with a wide eye, “What happens to those waiting for your message?”

“They do it anyway.” The sailor shrunk back as far as he could. Rage took Callum again and he roared in the terrified sailors face. He let go of the man and let him slump to the floor. Callum straightened and looked at Dustin, who had a look of shock. Callum looked back at the sailor and pointed a finger at him, “If anything happens to my son, there is no place in the world that you can hide from me.” Callum turned and faced the group that was surrounding him, “Stand aside all of you.”

“Now who be you?” A man in front asked.

“Quintan Callum.” Callum said, his voice of full authority. Some of the men surrounding him knew the name, some gasped slightly hearing it. Those that did not know it watched as those that did tipped their hands in obedience to Callum, the others followed suit, all parted out of his way, “We have a coach to beat.” Callum said over his shoulder toward Dustin.