As General Cornwallis shows his new property gain of Ohio to his aid, A reward from His Majesty King George for his services Rendered to the crown, Colonel Tavington enters the room and stands at attention before the General's table. Waiting to be addressed, "A remarkable piece of land my lord, you will be a country unto yourself." His assistant boasts to the general. Then he turned and picked up his papers that he brought with him, and begins to leave the room. But not before giving Colonel Tavington a look of disgusted. Even though the Colonel Picked up on it, he refused to acknowledge it. "His majesty is most generous my lord." Cornwallis nods slightly at his comment, then Tavington continues, " Of course, your efforts in the war more then warrant such a gift." Cornwallis nodded again as he began to walk over to his desk, "This is how his majesty rewards those who fight for him as Gentlemen." A smile Swept across Tavington's face, "I dare to presume that my own efforts will be rewarded some day." "You presume to much." Tavington's smile Fled from his face." His majesty the king, like history judges us not only on the out come of the war, but the manner in which it was fought. These Brutal tactics must stop."

"But my lord, These men...." "You serve me, and how you serve me REFLECTS UPON ME!!" Cornwallis took a breathe cooling his own temper. "I would have thought coming from a family as esteemed as yours, you would understand that." Cornwallis's comment came as a low blow to Tavington, "My late father Squandered any esteem In which we were held, along with my inheritance. I advance myself, only through Victory." Cornwallis took a tone that only spelled ' Warning', "You advance yourself only through my good graces." Colonel Tavington nodded understanding the meaning that underlined His comment.

Cornwallis could see that his point had been well made, and decided that it was time to change the subject. "Congratulations on your recent marriage. I had heard that you were engaged the past few months and were married in a town outside of Yorksbourgh yesterday morning." "Yes sir, it was small, my Calvary riders where the only ones to attend. It was a bit sudden." "Yes I know, and you haven't seen her since. You rode into a battle with the Colonials. Then you received my dispatched and remained in your camp until you came here." "Yes my lord, However she understands." "Yes. I met her once, she was quite an extraordinary young woman. Young, Very beautiful and fair as could be. For the life of me I can't figure out how she ended up with you." Up until that point, Tavington had been smiling. "My Lord?" Cornwallis sat down. "She came to me, several years ago at a ball that I was giving. She was dressed in a flowing gown, much similar to the ones worn of the court, made of a fine satin. She wore no wig and none of the make up traditionally worn. God knows she didn't need to. She must have been 14 maybe 15 then. She walked though my guests on my lawn, leading the most magnificent animal of an animal I'd ever seen. His Color was as black as a moonless sky, with a single white star on the middle of his forehead. She curtseyed to me as if I was the king himself when she came close. Her golden hair flashing in the sunlight, and her deep crystal blue eyes that shone out from her fair white skin. I bowed back to her. Then she spoke in a clear almost musical voice, " I bring a gift to my lord Cornwallis." She reached up to hand me his rein, but I put my hand up to stop he, explained that I couldn't take such a fine gift. She smiled sweetly as she reached out and took my hand in hers, and gently folded it around the rein.

She Stepped back and curtseyed again, then turned and began to leave. I handed the rein of the horse to my aid at the time, and went after her. The only thing I could ask was what her name was. "Marian" she said, the smiled and left. A fitting name for such a creature as she, like the Maid Marian." As Cornwallis spoke, Colonel Tavington found himself wanting to be with her, with his arms around her. Cornwallis began to come back from his reflections. "I haven't seen her since." He looked at Colonel Tavington his anger returning to him, "Colonel, your engagement was sudden and quite short. Your wedding was just as sudden. Why I wonder, did you not wait until after the war. What if something happens to you, She'll be widowed."

"We were planning to wait my lord, but......." "But nothing. You were married in Uniform no doubt with your saber at your side, only to ride off in to battle moments after." "My lord as you stated yourself, we are in the middle of a war." Cornwallis glared at him, he was not incompetent and was well aware that there was a war raging on just outside his door. He took out a parchment and pen and began to write. "I'm giving you a two week Furlough, and the use of my plantation. It's a ways away from the war." Tavington stepped forward in protest, "But my lord......" "Don't argue with me Colonel. The war will most certainly be here when you get back, and two weeks is hardly enough time for anyone's honeymoon. Consider this my wedding present.... to her." He said handing the parchment to Colonel Tavington. "Dismissed Colonel Tavington." Colonel Tavington stood at attention then walked to the doors and stopped. "Sir, we had intended to wait, she insisted upon our being married as soon as possible. When I brought up the point you made about something happening to me, she said "I'd rather have a little time with you as your wife, then a life time of regret." Cornwallis nodded, "You are a Lucky man Colonel." "Sir?" "She was only thinking of you. Not of herself." Tavington nodded and left.

He rode out to the Calvary Camp to turn his duty's over to his second in command until he returned. Then set off for Yorksbourgh. It was quite a long ride away from Cornwallis's headquarters. The war had been moving like a wild fire in that direction. At least he could take her away from there to safety before it got there. He rode the boarding house that she had been living at for the entire time he'd known her. It was early morning still, and the sun had only just come up. He walked inside the house removing his riding gloves, then went up the stairs to her room. Gently and quietly he opened the door slowly. She was still asleep in the white bed clothing. Her golden hair cascaded down the white pillow cases in long flowing curls. Her fair skin showing the color of her scarlet red lips as she slept peacefully. He stepped in removing his hat and closing the door behind him. He walked to her without making a sound and sat next to her on the bed. He gazed at the angel that laid before him in awe and wonderment. He couldn't resist stealing a kiss from her beautiful red lips. No matter what, she was always clean, well dressed, and always smelled of Roses to him. He leaned down, and ever so gently, brushed her lips with his. Then stared at her again as her eyes fluttered open.

As soon as she saw who he was, she retreated into his arms and breathes, "William". Then she looked up and touched his face, "Is it really you? Or am I dreaming again?" He kissed her deeply, she looked at him again, and "It is you I thought it would be another month until I saw you again." "Get dressed quickly my dear." She didn't question him, she got up instantly as he left the room closing the door behind him. He went downstairs to the main room and called out for the mistress of the house. She came out smiling until she saw who it was. Then she sighed and leaned against the doorway, "Back already Colonel." She said dryly showing her utter distaste for him and all the British soldiers. He glared at her, "I'll settle her debt before we leave." Still wanting to get her digs in for whatever wrongs she thought had been done to her. She continued with her hateful words and glares, "Leaving? Good, then I won't have to see you around my house again." Tavington was losing his patience for this woman, "What of her debt." He said in a commanding voice. "She hasn't one. She's always paid me in advance. Even with that, once you take that harlot and trader out of here, I'll never let her set foot in this house again." Her words were unacceptable, and Tavington wasn't going to tolerate them. He took a step forward reaching for her, but the sound of an opening door upstairs stopped him cold. He put his hand down and said in a cold unforgiving tone, "Count yourself fortunate that my Brides presents still graces this house." He took out 5 pieces of silver and dropped them on the table in front of the Widow, "Someone will be along shortly to pick up her things. They had better be undisturbed by your hand or anyone else's." His obvious displeasure frightened the woman, which only fueled her anger towards him. However she was smart enough to realize the need to bite her tongue.

Just then, Marian came down the stairs quickly. Her hair was brushed and down, but pinned in the back. She wore a creamed colored dress that was cut low and flowed around her as she moved. She was radiant with joy and excitement, and her smile glowed showing it. "I'm ready William." She carried with her a black cloak that had gold trim around the hem and edges. It fastened at the neck with a gold pin. It had been a gift Tavington several months back. He walked over to her, as she beamed with pure happiness. He wanted more then anything to take her in his arms and kiss her again. However he wasn't about to put on a show for this rude, ignorant, dust maid that passed as a boarding house mistress. Instead he took the cloak from Marian and wrapped it around her as she turned. She would have melted into his arms, but understood that his station would not allow such a public display of affection. She turned back toward him waiting for instruction. "My horse is waiting out front my dear. I'm taking you away from here." Her face brightened even more as she nodded very excited at the mere though of going anywhere with him. He motioned for her to go ahead of him. She couldn't help herself, she threw her arms around him and held him tight. He hugged her back not wanting to ever let her go. He opened his eyes and glared at the housemistress feeling her eyes upon them. She turned away and pretended to do something else. Tavington whispered to Marian, "Come my dear, we must be on our way." She nodded as she fastened the pin of her cloak around her neck. She rushed over to the housemistress, "Thank you so much widow Styles. You've been so kind in letting me stay here these past few years, thank you so much." She didn't say anything, just gave her an evil look with a sort of spiteful smile. Tavington watched his bride in wonderment. The woman so obviously hated her and her every action dripped with contempt. No doubt she must have said many very hurtful things to her when he wasn't there. But his bride, his angel, was sincerein her gratefulness and kindness. "Best of luck to you Widow Styles, may God bless you and all who stay in your house." She said with a soft and gentle smile, just before curtsying in respect for her. Then she smiled one more time and went outside of the house. Both Tavington and the mistress watched after her. Then the mistress spoke, "Her heart is pure Gold Colonel. I don't understand what she could have ever done to be condemned to being your wife. I've seen with my own eyes what you and your men do. My husband was one of those that you murdered in cold blood, and my daughter walks your camps. I hope you burn in hell." Tavington gave her a look, "Untouched widow," His words were like Ice, and most threatening. He walked out replacing his helmet.

"I have a horse waiting for you in the grove to the south of town." She nodded then started to walk away in that direction. He caught her arm and pulled her back to him. "Where are you going?" "It's not that far William, I can walk." "I'll not have you walk." He picked her up and placed her on top of the horse, before climbing up behind her. He put one arm around her and took the reins with the other hand. She was warmed by his touch. She took pleasure in just being near him, touching him, and covered his hand with hers. He breathed in the sweet smell of her hair, and stole a kiss from her shoulders. Then he turned the horse toward the grove. He rode slow and easy out of town talking his time. There were few people up in this small town, and they all stared, some spat at them in the rode. All though she seemed to pay no mind, Tavington saw it, and grew angry. Marian found his grip growing tighter around her waist. She began rubbing his hand trying to sooth his growing anger. Her touch cooled his temper a little. Once they were out of town, he relaxed a little. "William, they're just afraid. War is an awful thing that happens sometimes when Ideas clash. A war that is brother against brother is always filled with indescribable horrors. Red or blue or earthen colors, we've all come from the same place, and we will all end up in the same place." Her words held an eerie sort of logic, like she was talking about things on earth, but also things in heaven and hell. He held her close to him, as if to protect her from all the evils of the world. She seemed so pure, yet had the wisdom of 50 years.

They came to the grove, where a horse and several of his Calvary Riders were waiting. He got down first, before helping her off the horse.

Tavington's Captain ran up and saluted. "Sir, there's a scrimmage down by the ridge. The Rebel's have our troops surrounded and under fire." Tavington looked at Marian. She nodded and smiled at him. "You've got work to do. I'll wait for you." Her response shocked him a little, but stunned him only for a second. He turned to his Dragoons and shouted, "TO HORSE." Before the Captain got away, Marian grabbed the Captain's arm and said only loud enough for him to hear, "Keep him safe Captain." He nodded then ran to his horse and mounted. Tavington rode up beside Marian who was standing next to the horse that he had brought her, "I won't be long." She nodded and gave him an encouraging smile. Then he shouted the order for the Dragoons to charge, they all took off in a thunderous mob that shook the very ground. She continued to smile until she was sure that even if he looked back, he couldn't see her. Then her fears over took her face. Every time he was away or in his uniform, she feared his death, or even worse his capture. She walked over to a rock behind a tree and sat down leaning back. She stared up towards the sky feeling the warmth of the sun on her face. It was still early morning and had only just started to come out.

Two hours later, the Dragoons were rounding up there ranks. By the time they had gotten there, it was to late for there own British troops. But not many, if any at all, of the Colonial Rebels got away. The Captain Rode up beside Colonel Tavington, "Three of our Riders are wounded, there are no Dragoon Casualties. The Rebel party has been destroyed." "Good, send a small detachment out to find any other Rebel's that might have slipped away, shoot them on sight." He thought for a few minutes as he looked in the directions of the Town that was less then half of a mile away. He turned back to the Captain, "Send someone into the town to retrieve my wife's things, then wipe the town off the map." The Captain looked at him a little in shock. "Sir?" "The Rebel's obviously came from there, any who might have escaped will surely return. Not to mention I'm entirely sure that they knew about the attack. Burn the town, and kill the people. Do not question my orders again Captain, just do it." Then Captain nodded. "Good. Now after you have completed that task, my command will be yours until I get back. Do not Disappoint me." He said with a look and tone that told the Captain his life was on the line. "Yes Sir." The Captain took command of the Dragoons, and headed towards the town. Colonel Tavington watched them ride off, then turned his horse back toward the grove where he had left Marian. As he turned his horse into the wind, he could recognize that smell that he had come to know so well. He stopped and took out his handkerchief and wiped the Colonial blood from his face and neck. He could only imagine the shock it would cause his new bride, to see him riding up dripping with blood. Once he felt that he was sufficiently cleaned up, he started off again.

When he got there, he saw the horse but not Marian. Something didn't seem right. . Even though he listened intently, he couldn't hear or see her. He got down cautiously from the horse. He listened for a few minutes before drawing out his saber slowly. He held his stance in a manner that he could strike out if need be. He didn't dare call out her name, in case rebels where near by. He walked over to the horse and examined him. Just then something caught his eye behind a tree. He took out his pistol and cocked it. He got near to the tree, then went around it quickly acquiring his target instantly. Marian eyes opened, and she didn't move as her eyes met his over a loaded pistol. He quickly lowered it seeing who it was. He let his breath out as he put his gun away and sheathed his sword. She had fallen asleep and didn't hear him ride up. " You've been gone for hours, I was beginning to worry." He reached down and helped her up, "We had better get moving. WE have got a long way to travel before night fall." She nodded as he helped her up onto her horse. He mounted his own and they galloped off down the road together. They covered quite a bit of ground in just a few short hours. They went through a larger town in the afternoon. Everyone stared as they rode past. It made Marian a little uneasy this time. Once they passed the city limits, Marian called out to him, "William. Would you do something for me?" "Anything my dear." "Please take off your red uniform coat and put it away. Your not on duty right now, there's no reason to run the risk. We aren't exactly in British Friendly territory." He smiled at her and stopped his horse. "Alright." He removed his helmet and she held it for him while he took off the coat and vest down to his white shirt. He folded them before he put them away in a settle bag. "There, feel better my love?" She smiled, "Much better." With that they both smiled laughing a little bit and started off again.

By sunset, they came upon the hill overlooking Cornwallis's plantation. They had been riding nearly the entire day, at a quick pace. She looked down into the valley, "What is this place William?" "Lord Cornwallis's plantation. After I go back in two weeks, he has you requested that you remain here as do I. This is a good long way away from the war, and it's not expected to come this direction at all. You will be safe here." She looked at him for a moment, then looked back at the enormous house down the hill in the valley. "My Lord Cornwallis is most Generous." He looked at her for a moment noticing that he had fallen deep into thought. After a few moments he began riding down the hill and she followed. They rode up to the door and the servants took their horses for them. They both wished to get cleaned up and changed. A little while later, one of the savants informed Tavington that a soldier had come with Marian's things. He went down stairs into the foyer where he was waiting. All that the soldier had with him was a single case that was not very big in size. He looked around, "Where's the rest of it?" "This is all over her things sir." Tavington looked at him and opened the case. A looked of surprise and bewilderment swept over his face, "All these things were gifts from me." "These were the only things that were hers in the house sir." Tavington nodded, and the solider left. He held one of the objects from the case that he had given her months before, "My little enigma." He looked up the stairs towards the room where she was. Then he put the object back in the case and closed it then took it up stairs.

He knocked on her door, "Come in." She called out. He opened the door and stepped in. She was sitting at the vanity pinning her hair up. As soon as she saw who it was she got up to meet him. This time they were entirely alone, and out of sight of everyone but each other. She kissed him and he kissed her back. For a short time, the case was forgotten. Tavington was reminded again we he found himself unable to hold her the way he wished. It forced him to let her go, even though he had no desire to. "Your things came a short while ago." He held up the case and she took the case from him gratefully, "Thank you William." She took it over to the vanity and set it down. He watched her graceful movements, she seemed to glide along the floor. She sat down and began to pin up her hair again. He watched her hands move swiftly and expertly taming the soft golden curls that covered her neck and shoulders. He stepped closer and watched her in the mirror. Her deep crystal blue eyes sparkled in the candlelight that washed over her skin. He had dreamed about her the nights he was off on a campaign and so far away from her it seemed. Now watching her, she was more beautiful then in his dreams. She saw him staring at her in the mirror, "William. Is something the matter?" "Oh no my dear. Everything's perfect." She smiled sweetly understanding his meaning. Her smile faded as she began to lose herself in thought. "William?" "Hmmm?" "Why did lord Cornwallis do this for us? It was my understanding that he's not found of you." That snapped him back into the room and out of this thoughts, "Who told you that?" She turned and looked at him a little worried. "I heard some of your Green Dragoons talking at the wedding." "Tavington laid down on the foot of the bed and leaned on one elbow, "You know, as my commanding officer, I am bound to doing what ever he orders me to do. However, this Colonial Rebel will not fight as Gentlemen. They wear things that hide them from the human eye; they hide behind bushes, rocks and trees. They jump out to fire then go back into hiding, and fall onto our troops out of nowhere. It is a dirty uncivilized way to fight. If they don't fight as gentlemen and follow the rules of war, how can I be expected to and keep my own troops alive long enough to do there job. What Lord Cornwallis fails to see, is that when I am out in the field, I have to make decisions as these rebels attack, and to do what is necessary to prevent them from attacking again. In this war, to fight against the colonial militia, as a gentleman should, is to seal your own fate. Lord Cornwallis will continue to fail to see that until he sees it with his own eyes, or befalls it himself." "If he doesn't think you to be a gentleman, and doesn't approve of the way you fight, then why this?" He got up, "He didn't do this for 'us' my dear. He did this for you." She looked down then looked into the mirror. He walked up behind her and put his hands on her shoulders. "Let's not talk of this anymore my love. Tonight is our first night together, and if you don't mind, Cornwallis is the last thing I want invading my thoughts." He kissed the back of her neck, and then her shoulders. She turned to face him and He put his hand against the side of her face, brushing her hair back and looking into her eyes. Then he kissed her passionately. Thoughts of Cornwallis, and the war melted away to his touch. After a few minutes he picked her up, not wanting to let her go for a minute. The night went on, and though it was long, it somehow didn't seem to be long enough.

Over the course of the two weeks that followed, it seemed like the war was forgotten between them. Even with the number of things that they did together, they always seemed they ended up in the same place. In each other's arms unable to let go. When the end of the two weeks came, Tavington dawned his uniform and saber again. A detachment of the Green Dragoons were sent to escort him back to Cornwallis's headquarters for his orders. Marian held his gloves and helmet as he buttoned his green and red coat in the mirror and tied his scarf. His uniform, as always was nearly perfect the same way he kept it. He took the helmet and gloves from her and took her and as she walked out onto the porch with him. All in perfect formation stood 20 Dragoons waiting for him. "I'll write to you William. I promise." He shook his head, "No my dear, you must not. If one of your letters were intercepted, it you put you at risk." "When will I see you again." She put her head down trying not to cry. He put his hand underneath her chin and raised her face so her could look in her eyes, "Soon, I promise." He put on his helmet and secured the strap around his chin. They were both trying to be strong, but it was Marian who caved and didn't care first. She put her arms around him and held him tight. He hugged her back, and kissed her one last time. Then smiled for him as he turned and walked down the stairs to his horse. He looked at her again, then he took the lead of the Dragoons and they all road away. Once he was gone and she couldn't even see the dust from the horses, any and all happiness fled from her. She felt as if she stood there alone, the last person on earth. She walked up to her room and laid down, feeling and overwhelming sense of sorrow. She didn't even stir when the servants called her for supper. They were down in the kitchen talking as they cleaned up. "What do you thinks wrong with her Becky?" She looked at him, "What do you thinks wrong with her Joe. There's a war one that her Husband just rode off too. There's no telling when he'll be back ,...if he'll be back. She'll be better in a day or two. She'll begin telling herself, that he'll be back any day and feel better." "You think she knows what goes on with him when he's off fighting with the Colonists?" "I'm certainly not going to be the one to tell her he's earned the nickname "The butcher". The last time I heard, he burned down 10 farms and killed the people living there." "You've seen the way she looks at him, he could do no wrong in her eyes." "Well lets just get this cleaned up and turn it." "Yeah, she might be ready to eat something in the morning"

Two days later, she still hadn't stirred from her room. The maid went up the stairs with a candle and knocked on Marian's door. "Miss? May I come in?" No answer came, so she slowly opened the door. Marian was laying on the bed facing the far wall with her back to the door. She walked over and say on the bed next to her putting the candle down on the table. "Are you alright?" "Yes." "Are you going to eat something?" "No." "He'll come back miss. You'll see." "Yeah. But in how many pieces." "He's a professional soldier in his majesty's army. He's been one for many years. You think that just because he got married, he's going to die Now? After all this time? If anything, your his good luck charm. Cheer up, he'll be fine. Trust me." Then she picked up the candle and walked out. "Get some rest miss, you'll feel better in the morning." Then she closed the door taking any and all light with her.

When Tavington reported to Cornwallis, he was put on the Ghost problem again. He patrolled with his Dragoons across the country side, coming upon what was left of the ambushed British soldiers and supply lines. Always seeming as if it was to late by the time he got there. It outraged him, firing his hate and anger. As it was Cornwallis as well. Finally, he set up a trap for them using a unit of the British Red Coats as bait. They were successful in capturing 18 of there men and killing 22.

When Colonel Tavington rode into Cornwallis's headquarters, he was just in time to hear the order given to release the prisoners. The Quickly demounted and called out to the General. "General, what is going on here !?!?!" "Prisoner exchange. he has 18 of our officers." "Who is that man I recognize him." "He the commander of the militia, you ghost." He immediately drew his saber and began to go after him, "SEATHE THAT SOWARD COLONEL. He rode in under a white flag for formal parlay." Tavington stopped, "This is madness." "If you harm him, you condemn our officers." Tavington walked back to the general and said only loud enough for him to hear, "With all due respect, sir, he's killed as many officers in the last two months." "The General was losing his patience with him, "He has shown no aggression here, hence he cannot be touched!!" The Colonel knew exactly what to do. "Has he not." He turned around and went off towards him again. "YOU! SO YOUR THE GHOST ARE YOU!!! I REMEMBER YOU! THAT FARM AND THAT STUPID LITTLE BOY!" It stopped the man cold, and he turned around staring at Tavington in disbelief. Tavington continued, "Did he die? Hmm?" The Man came up to Tavington quickly, it was obvious that his anger was growing. Tavington smiled figuring that he had to push only a little bit more. "You know, it's an ugly business doing one's duty, but just occasionally,.... it's a real pleasure." There eyes met for moments, the hate filled eyes of the ghost, the piercing Icy cold glare of Tavington's. His hate flared, but quickly cooled knowing that there were many more lives on the line. "Before this war is over, I'm going to kill you." Tavington readjusted the angle of his sword so the tip was leaning on the ghosts belly daring him to move, "Why wait?" The man still looked at him, "Soon." Then he turned back and walked away from Tavington to his horse and men. Tavington watched in disgust as he watched them ride away.

After which, he went back up to Cornwallis's office. Cornwallis was thoroughly put out about the loss of his dogs again. "Colonel Tavington I am not in the mood for your nonsense right now. Our sudden decrease in our officers is due to your brutal tactics which I have ordered you to stop time and time again." "My lord I know that man." "Good, then you should have no trouble tracking him down." Just as Colonel Tavington was just about to reply, a scout burst into the room. "My lord, the Rebels have hit to the south west." That grabbed both Tavington and Cornwallis's attention. " Where?" Tavington said fearing the worst. " Several farms, including Lord Cornwallis's Plantation which was the center of the attack." Instantly Colonel Tavington started out the door. "Colonel Tavington where are you going?" "I'll not leave her to a pack of wolves sir, they might have captured her." "Alright Colonel. Bring her back if you can." Tavington put on his helmet and ran out to his horse. His Captain that had come with him couldn't even manage to keep up with him. They rode through camp shouting "TO HORSE" on the first pass. On the second pass the Dragoons were either on horse back awaiting orders or mounting as quickly as they could. He waited only a minute before giving the order to move out. They all rode hard and fast for what seemed like hours. It was only a 5 hour ride to the plantation from Cornwallis Headquarters but even that was too long. The horses were beginning to get tired. Finally they came up onto the hill that overlooked the plantation. That house was in flames and nearly burned to the ground. The fire didn't spread to the trees and the bushes around, it was all to green. It didn't look as if anything around was moving. Tavington found himself over taken by in incredible since of panic, but refused to let it show. Instead he called a charge. They all drew sabers and raced down the hill into the valley. They went to the house that still had rolling black clouds pouring from it. Tavington dismounted as dud some of the other Dragoons. It was to late and he knew it. Though grit teeth, holding back his anger and sorrow, he gave his orders. "Captain, search the grounds and the out woods, Bring back anything or anyone you find. Do it quickly." The captain didn't even take the time to salute, he divided up the still mounted Dragoons and they took off in opposite directions.

Tavington stood staring at the smoldering house. Barely able to keep himself in check. He could only hope that she was captured, he couldn't bare to imagine the horrors she might have.... . Just then, he heard a noise coming from the nearby trees. When he turned to look, there stood Marian. No expression on her face and completely blank look in her eyes. Her dress was drenched with blood, one sleeve in particular that was shredded to bits. The blood was still fresh for it ran down her arm from the dress, and dripped from the knife she held in her hand. Her mere appearance only shocked him for a moment. Then he rushed to her and held her face gently with his hands. "Marian? Are you alright?" She seemed unaware of him for a few moments, and then blinked a few times. "William?" She said quizitively. Then she repeated his name, "William." she said as if it were a sigh of relief. He kissed her lips then held her tight. The smell of blood was strong and quite overpowering.

A while later, they had ridden away from the once proud Plantation that was reduced to ashes with in a matter of hours, and made camp with another British Unit several miles away. They had gotten her some different clothes so she could change and clean up. Marian hadn't said a word since she first recognized Tavington. Now she sat by a campfire alone, sipping at a drink, and pulling Tavington's coat around her. Tavington was on the other side of the camp talking to his men, as they reported what they had found. All the rebels that had attacked earlier in the day had fled, except for a few who were found not far away from the house. "Sir there wasn't a whole lot left of them. We counted 6 Rebels, and three house servants. It appeared that the servants had been tortured before they were killed. I can't even begin to imagine how the death of those 6 Colonials occurred. Either way, it was done with a knife or dagger of some sort mostly. There was a gunshot wound on one of them." Tavington listened to them as they described the scene. Almost instinctively, he knew how those men died. He knew there was only one logical explanation. "Alright, we are heading back to our encampment near Lord Cornwallis Headquarters tomorrow morning. Keep a look out for any Colonels along the way. Just 6 of them couldn't have possibly done that much damage alone." They saluted him and went about there business.

Tavington walked back to where Marian was and watched her for a moment. She stared blankly into the fire still clutching at the coat to keep the bitter cold out, even though it was failing miserably. He walked over and sat down next to her for a few minutes, and looked at her wanting her to talk to him, but she said nothing. He sighed and put his arm around her drawing her close. She melted into him hanging on for dear life. A little while later she spoke softly and quietly, "Why did they do this? What had we done?" "Nothing. There was no reason to attack that house, and no reason to attack you. The war hasn't been strong in this direction at all these past few years. I think they were mostly looters, and vandals." He turned her face towards him even though her eyes still looked down, "And you have done nothing wrong, nothing to be ashamed of." She looked at him, as she met his eyes, she knew that he knew about the lives that she had taken. There was nothing that could be done to change it now, she looked back into the flames again. She watched the fire dance and flicker as they engulfed the fire wood. Tavington had been watching her all day long, and her same blank expression remained on her face. He held her tighter, and stroked her hair, "What happened. Please tell me." A few minutes passed, and he decided she wasn't going to answer his question. Then out of no where she began talking, "Early this morning, just before the sun came up, I was reading in my room. I couldn't sleep so I had gotten up early and got dressed. The servants weren't even awake yet. I heard a crash downstairs, so I went to look. When I opened the door of my room, I heard shouting, screaming, things being smashed and broken. There were so many of them. I didn't know what else to do, so I went back into my room and locked the bolt on my door. I knew that it wasn't going to keep them out, but it would at least give me a few minutes. I opened the latch on my window, and opened the shutters. Then I climbed out and down the eves which held theIvy on the side of the house. But when I got down, I ran smack into three of them. When I struggled, they hit me across my face with the butt of a musket." That explained where the bruise around her eye had come from. He could see it clearly after she had a chance to clean up. He held her a little tighter and reached for her right hand with his free right hand.

Some other Dragoons were near by talking about one of the recent battles that they had fought. When Tavington pulled her hand towards him, he noticed she jumped and jerked a little. Her arm had rubbed across one of the buttons on his vest. He held her arm up letting her go, and pulled her sleeve her arm. There on her arm was a bright red, raise mark, that had black lines taking the form of an H. It was a very bad burn, the one that comes from an Iron brand specifically cast for the purpose of marking a human. Tavington's anger over took his senses at the sight of it. "What is this!?! Who dared to mark you with such a vile thing!!!" "They assumed that I was Cornwallis mistress. What other reason would I be living in his house for. One of them, their commander I think that I couldn't see, kept referring to me as a traitor. If I was going to live with the British like one, I should be marked as one, and gave the order to make it so." He was enraged at the sight, that anyone mistook her as Cornwallis's made it all the worse. This mark of shame burned into her flesh, HIS flesh, was over the line. He stood to up, dragging her to her feet with him, his rage burst into pure fury. She was frightened seeing the extent of his temper that seemed to be directed towards her. He paced back and forth a few times then stopped in front of her. She stared at him terror stricken. Then suddenly he pushed her into two of his Dragoons that caught her. "Take her to the camp surgeon immediately! Have that mark removed! Do you hear me? ROMOVED IT!! NOW!!" The two Dragoons a little in shock themselves took a hold of her arms, Marian looked at him in horror and disbelief, "William." He looked up at them again, "Did you not hear my orders? WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE!?!?!" They immediately began to drag her off even though she didn't fight them. He shouted as they went away, "I'LL NOT HAVE MY WIFE MARKED AS A COMMAN HARLOT!!!" Tavington stayed, looking away from her and kicking at whatever was close. Throwing what ever crossed his path. Then retreated into his tent away from everyone's eyes.

An hour later, he came out of his tent. He had removed his Red jacket, and his hair was down. He walked to the medical tent and stepped in. She was laying on her back on one of the cots. Very tired and half awake. Her sleeve was rolled all the way up to her shoulder, and a white bandaged wrapped around the length of her forearm. A surgeon walked past, but the Colonel didn't see him, only his wife. Tavington walked across the tent and stood beside her. She smiled up at him sweetly, "Hey." She was sweet and gentle and it crushed him after what he had done. It would have been easier had she been mad or upset at him. He kneeled down beside her and took her hand. He stared at her fingers, so long and pretty. Then he enclosed them in his hand, "I'm sorry Marian, I didn't want to cause you more pain. I don't know what came over me, I never wanted to hurt you." She smiled as she reached over putting her other hand on his. "It's alright William, You didn't hear a scream or cry come from this tent did you. I'll be fine, you'll see. It'll all be forgotten in time." Tavington looked at her then ran his finger over the bandage on her arm. "How?" His eyes met hers again, "How could you ever forgive me?" "For what? If there is anything to be forgiven, it has already been forgiven. Your anger was well placed." She looked it him, "besides, you came and rescued me today." That brought a smile even to his face. After all she saw, after all she went though, she still thought of him as her knight in shinning armor. She was still a little out of it from the either they used to dull her pain. He picked her up off the cot as she put her arms around him and put her head on his shoulder, and carried her back to his tent. He had decided that she had seen enough and in the event that some sort of attack or scrimmage took place, he didn't want her there when the wounded came in.

As they laid together on his cot he told her about what had been going on in the war. About the Ghost that lead the colonial militia. She did what she could to sooth his grief and encourage him in his work. She seemed to have forgotten her earlier experiences in the day, and was just happy to be by his side. "Where will I go now William? Back to Yorksbourgh?" He looked at her, she didn't know that the town she had lived at was gone and had been for months. He saw no reason to break the news to her now. "No I'm taking you back to Lord Cornwallis headquarters. You'll be safe there for now. It's always been heavily guarded, it's the safest place behind our own lines." She fell back in to thought, as he noticed she did each time Cornwallis was brought into the conversation. He leaned up on one elbow and looked at her for a minute. "William?" "Hmm?" "Is he going to be there?" "Of course, it's his head quarters." She sighed slightly, "Do you wish to speak of it my dear?" He said with growing concern. She turned her eyes back to him for a moment. Then took a breath, "A few years ago, I took a gift to Lord Cornwallis. A black Stallion that I had raised from the time I was a child." "I know. He told me about that." "Did he also tell you that he issued an order to seek me out? He even offered a reward for information on my whereabouts." "No he failed to mention that." She got up and walked to the front of the tent and looked out. Tavington watched her as she continued, "I didn't know what to do. I was a child, I was scared.... so I ran. I moved from place to place until it seemed as if the whole sorted affair was forgotten. I stopped running and ended up in that town outside of Yorksbourgh. Now he's found me." "My dear." He got up and walked over to there, kneeling down beside her. "Why did you run?" She paused, " I heard some soldiers talking. About how Lord Cornwallis eye had been caught by a beautiful angel, that he desired for himself." Tavington had already had the suspicion from when Cornwallis spoke of her that ay. She stared out the tent as she said in a broken voice, "I admired him, I merely meant to give him midnight as a token of my respect for him. I never...never meant to.... .." Then she stopped unable to go any further. He put his arms around her and stroked her hair. "You are my wife. You have nothing to fear. You are a married woman and he knows that." He turned her face to his, "As a Gentlemen, he'll not do anything to jeopardize his reputation. The king himself watches his every move. You are safe, I promise." She smiled up at him, "I know. I'm always safe when your near by." He got up helping her to her feet, "Come, you need some rest. You've had a very stressful day, and we are to get an early start in the morning. She nodded as she kissed him again. They laid down on the small cot, and fell asleep in each others arms.

Early the next morning, the Dragoons moved out. Marian rode with Tavington being as how they were short on horses. It was where she wished to be anyway. The events of the day before already were a memory and seemed as if in a dream that was forgotten. Late in the afternoon, they got back to their encampment. . Tavington got Marian a horse then they rode to Cornwallis's head quarters. Once in the gates, all three of them dismounted their horses. Tavington started to walk in, but stopped noticing that she wasn't by his side. He turned to see where she was, and found her still standing by her horse shying back. Tavington walked back to her, "Come my dear, there is nothing to fear here." He said prying her hand from the saddle. "I promise no one will harm you. Trust me." She nodded as he took her arm, cautiously going with him. Once inside, General O'Hara came out and met them. "Lord Cornwallis is not in the best of spirits today Colonel Tavington." Tavington looked at Marian then looked back at the General, "What of the officers from the prisoner exchange yesterday morning?" The General motioned for him to be quiet, "That is a very sorry subject at the moment Colonel. It would appear that our 18 captured officers were merely dummies in officer uniforms." He looked at Marian, "Madam, I have been asked to show you to your living quarters." He held his hand out wishing her to come with him. Without really thinking, Marian got closer to Tavington holding on to his arm tighter. Tavington looked at her, "Marian, don't keep the General waiting." She looked at Tavington, it was written all over her face that she'd rather stay with him. "It's alright, go on." He whispered pushing her away towards General O'Hara. She took a breath and walked to him. He smiled at her and she returned it sweetly as she went with him. Tavington watched them leave. She would be safe, no one dare harm her here he told himself. He waited for the General to come back and give him his audience with Cornwallis.

General O'Hara opened the door of the room that Marian would be staying in, and she stepped inside looking around. Then she turned back towards the General, "Sir? Are these the quarters of British officers in war time?" "No my lady, this room was specifically prepared for you. Lord Cornwallis insisted that it be decorated this way and finished before you arrived here." She was a little bit in shock, "You work quickly General O' Hara. Thank you very much for this." He bowed to her and left shutting the door behind him. It was a very beautiful room, which made her all the more uncomfortable. Already she found herself preferring Tavington's small tent and narrow cot for the simple fact that he would be there and Cornwallis would not be. Looking around, she caught sight of herself in the mirror. She walked over to the vanity starring at her appearance. Her hair was a frightful mess from riding for two days, and the clothes that they had gotten her to wear were now tattered and grungy. She looked at the brush and combs that were set out on the tray, she started to reach for one then stopped not sure if she should touch them. Lord Cornwallis had thought of everything down to the last detail. Another look in the mirror solved that problem. She sat down and began work to make herself more presentable. All of her things had either been taken or burned, even her wedding ring was stolen. They were just material possessions, and of no consequence really. She just wished that they wouldn't have taken her ring of all things.

The General went back out to Tavington after telling Cornwallis of their arrival. The look on his face said that he did not bear happy news. "Lord Cornwallis requests that you return later this evening. He is rather busy at this time." Tavington started to say something in protest, but thought better of it and bit his tongue. He nodded and began to replace his helmet. "I'll send clothing for her as soon as possible." "There will be no need for that. We have already seen to it by order of his Lordship." Tavington stopped and looked at him. That had caught him off his guard, he certainly hadn't been expecting it. "Has he. Really." The General nodded, and Tavington caught himself dwelling on it. He caught himself, "I'll return this evening." Then he turned and left. He mounted his horse and he and his Captain headed back to his encampment. He knew this man that had been named the ghost. He was a traitor who harbored the enemy, therefore lost his home. That Stupid boy of his attacked the soldiers that were appointed to take that dispatch rider back to camp to be hung as a spy. He remembered his face now, and would never forget again.

Now Marian sat on the windowsill of the room she would be staying in for she knew not how long. She held a book that she had intended to read, but couldn't seem to concentrate on it. She looked out over the valley at the rolling green tree covered hills, and the open fields that surrounded these headquarters. Off in the distance, there were many campfires and wondered if one of them might be Tavington's. Her thoughts were interrupted when a knock came at the door. "Come in!" She called scrambling to her feet to greet whoever it might be. When the door opened Cornwallis himself stepped in. She instantly went in to a courtesy. "How are you fairing?" "Quite well, My lord Cornwallis is most generous." "You like your room then?" "Oh yes my lord. It is very beautiful." He nodded, searching for something else to keep her talking to him. "If there is anything you need or want, all you need do is ask." "Thank you my Lord." He nodded again clasping his hands behind his back. He looked at her again noticing the bandage on her arm. He grew very concerned, "Were you wounded my dear?" He said walking towards her. Marian looked at her arm, she had forgotten about it until now, "Oh. It's nothing sir, merely a scratch. It will heal quickly." "I'll send my surgeon to change the dressing for you." She smiled at him gratefully. "I'm sorry Marian, I thought you'd be safe there." "I'm sorry that your house was destroyed my lord, it was a very lovely place." He took her hand and patted it with his, "Houses can be rebuilt my dear but you could never be replaced." The way he held her hand made her very uneasy, and his comment seemed a little unwarranted considering they had only formally met but once. Still she maintained her smile, he was only being nice. He began to look at her hands, and her fingers. She really didn't care for the feeling he was giving off. Thinking quickly she dropped the book that she had been holding. "Oh I'm sorry my lord." "It's alright, allow me. " He swooped down and picked it up. When he handed it back to her, he caught her hand under his. "Thank you my lord." She said nervously. "It's no trouble at all my dear." he said softly starring into her eyes. She couldn't continue this cat and mouse game anymore, and quickly downcast her eyes taking a step back. "My lord. If there was nothing else that you needed, I'm rather exhausted and I think I would like to retire." "As you wish my dear. You've been througha lot." He bowed slightly and left the room. When he was gone, Marian Sighed in relief. She looked at the book wondering how many more times that was going to work and tossed it down on the table. She went back out to the window to close the shutters, but stopped and stared out once more at the fires in the distance. "Oh William." She sighed. Her eyes grew heavy, she was more tired then she thought. She reached out again and closed the window, before changing for bed.

Tavington returned later that night just as he was ordered to. Cornwallis was in his chambers still brewing over the wrongs the ghost had inflected on him the day before. He could barely eat his supper without thinking about it, "My reputation suffers, be cause of YOUR incompetence." "THAT MAN, INSULTS ME!!" He shouted throwing down his fork. "Rather impressive for a farmer with a pitch fork. Wouldn't you say?" Tavington said coolly, without blinking an eye. Cornwallis recognized his own words being thrown back at him. Tavington's manner let Cornwallis know that something was up. He motioned for Tavington to come closer, and he immediately obeyed. "I want you to find that man. I want you to capture him." Tavington decided to lay out the problems for him. "He has the loyalty of the people. They protect him, protect his family, protect the families of his men. I can capture him for you. But to do so, requires the use of tactics that are somewhat......what was the word my lordship used? Brutal.... . I think?" Cornwallis thought for only a moment before sending his aid out. Once he was gone, Cornwallis redirected his attention to Tavington. "Go on." Tavington smiled as he walked to the table next to the mirror which hung on the wall, and took the decanter pouring himself a glass of wine. He had Cornwallis's back to the wall and knew it all too well. "I am prepared to do what is necessary. I alone will take the full mantel of responsibility for my actions, free of the chain of command. Rendering you blameless." He explained as he put the decanter back on the table. Then turned back, "However, If I do this, you and I both know that I can never return to England with honor." Cornwallis turned and looked at him feeling the cold and bitter breathe of black mail in the air. Tavington looked at his glass then looked up at him smiling, "What I wonder. Is to become of me." Now it was out in the open, and Cornwallis could see clearly what he was after. He thought for a moment then stood. He walked over to his desk where several maps had been laid out. Then he rolled one open. "When this war is over her in the Colonies the new aristocracy, will be landowners." He stood up strait and shot Tavington a smile. Tavington walked over to the desk acting very surprised and looked at the map. "Tell me about.... " He smiled an evil grin and looked up at Cornwallis, "Ohio." Cornwallis looked at him seeing just how deep seeded this blackmail was now. However he had no other choice but to except Tavington's offer.

A while later, Tavington was walking back down the hall towards the main hall, when he heard a hiss coming from one of the doors. He looked to see where it was coming from and saw Marian looking out. He walked over and Whispered, "Why are you still awake? They told me that you had retired." "Couldn't sleep. William what's going on?" "I have to go away for a little while, however I'll be back again soon." He never could hide something from her for long. She knew him to well, "Your going after the ghost. Aren't you." His mouth opened to deny it, but he knew he couldn't, "Yes." He said letting her know that there was nothing anyone could do to stop him. "Be careful William. Please." He put his hand against the side of her face and smiled, "Do not worry my dear. If anyone's head is returned in a basket, it will not be mine." She smiled for him and nodded. He kissed her gently then pulled away looking into her eyes, "Don't worry. Try and get some sleep." She nodded and kissed him again, before he walked away. She watched him disappear before closing her door and going back to her window. Moments later, she saw Tavington and his escort in the distance riding toward the campfire. It was a full moon and an Eire glow lit up the countryside. She closed the window back then laid back down to try and sleep.

Early the next morning Tavington and his Captain came into one of the main Dragoon tents. Without seeing or waiting for a response he shouted, " As you were." He spotted the loyalist at the back of the tent that had joined they're ranks at the outbreak of the war. He laid in his cot fast asleep. Tavington had a natural dislike for him from the first day that they had met. Anyone who would turn on they're friends and neighbor was less then honorable in anyone's eyes, and couldn't be trusted at all. Tavington had used his knowledge of the area to his advantage a few times already, but his eagerness to divulge information that lead to deaths of many of his own countrymen kept Tavington's opinion of him very low. "WILKINS!" Tavington shouted calling him from his sleep. Wilkins jumped a little and began to rub the sleep from his eyes, as he started began to slowly sit up. "A plantation, seven miles from Wakefield, on the Santee, east of black swamp. Who lived there?" It still took Wilkins a moment to regain his senses, then he remembered, "Benjamin Martian." Tavington's second looked at Wilkins, "He is the Ghost." Once more this loyalists knowledge might serve Tavington's needs. "What do you know about him?" Wilkins smiled and laughed slightly, "Hell everything. I could tell you the size of his boot." "Dose he have family?" Tavington's teeth began to grind, "Where would he hide his Children." Wilkins smile left his face, he knew that again he'd be acting as a traitor. He looked at the other dragoons around the tent who stared at him. They're own opinions of him were low. Wilkins drew a nervous breath, "His wife's sister has a plantation. It's not far." Wilkins then proceeded to tell him everything he knew about the man. The Dragoons mounted up taking with them they're torches. Then set out, for Charlottes plantation.

The next day, one of the other commanders came to Cornwallis in his study. "Sir," Cornwallis nodded his acknowledgement so that he would continue on with his news. Marian had been walking by the study door and hear voices inside. She went next to the door and cracked it open, to listen. "Yes yes, what is it." "It's Colonel Tavington sir. He's attacked a civilian plantation yesterday evening, he defied your direct order to stop the direct attacks on the colonial civilians." Upon hearing this, it was like a shot in Marian's heart. It couldn't be true, he must have heard wrong or seen something that wasn't as he thought it was. The conversation continued when Cornwallis spoke, "What of the civilians." "The servants were killed, but the woman and children who lived there couldn't be found." There was a pause before the commander spoke again, "Sir what of Tavington, what disciplinary acts are to be taken." There was another long pause. " I'll deal with Colonel Tavington once he gets back. Thank you for bringing me this news." She heard the commanders footsteps start for the door. She backed up around to another doorway and stayed until the commander had left the hallway before coming out again. Then she went around to the door and looked inside seeing Cornwallis at his window looking out. She stepped into his study still a little in shock. "Sir, " He turned and looked at her and smiled, "My dear, I didn't know that you were out and about yet. Feeling better I hope?" "Yes my Lord much." She walked over unable maintain her meek demeanor. "My lord, you can't believe such things about William.... Colonel Tavington. They couldn't be true they just couldn't." He looked at the door then looked at her. "You heard what that man said didn't you." She nodded a little ashamed she was ease dropping. Her hands found their way to the back of the chair that stood between them and her fingers were white from the tightness in which she held the back. "My dear, it's strictly a military matter. Don't worry yourself about it."

She looked at him in disbelief, "My lord, if these roomers circulate it will dishonor Colonel Tavington. He won't be able to show his face in England again. How can I not worry." Cornwallis looked at her for a few moments. Her words held only Colonel Tavington's well-being and not her own. She kept saying "He" instead of "We" and it seemed strange knowing that they were married. Any kind of dishonor that he suffered would most certainly affect them both but she didn't seem to care. He went over to her and took her hand from the chair and led her over to another one that sat opposite another so he could sit across from her. "In war time, many things are done in the field.... . that aren't really talked about. These roomers, if that is what they are......" The look in her face showed him that his implied meaning was not acceptable. "Uh.... What I mean is, they will most likely be forgotten. There is no need for concern at this time." She was hurt, and it took over her senses for the moment. "I've seen the way you and the rest of your officers think of him. I hear it in your tone that drips with contempt when he comes into your conversations." Tears were filling her eyes and her voice was breaking. She stood up, and anger began to fill her. "I'll not believe your accusations, and listen to your roomers that your officers are so eager to pass around." Cornwallis stood up enraged, "Madam!!.... ." But it didn't stop her, "If you can't see what a great and loyal man Colonel Tavington is and give him is due rewards for doing your dirty work when you and the rest of your lackeys don't have the courage to do it yourself. It's you I pity." With that she turned and ran out down the hall and back to her room slamming the door. Cornwallis stood there half in anger, and half in shock.

Marian threw herself on the bed burying her head in the pillows. She fought with herself to control the tears, but they were coming anyway. She was an emotional mess and she hated her self for it. She was angry, heartbroken, and in complete disappear at the hopelessness of the situation. When she finally calmed down a little bit she rolled over and looked up. "I don't believe them William. I don't care what you really did or didn't do. Just come back safely, please." She felt the tears begin to come again, and covered her face.

As the weeks dragged on endlessly, reports of Tavington's attacks on the Colonists came in one after another, each worse then the one before. Although Cornwallis tired to keep it from her, it was to no avail. The news spread like wildfire among the soldiers, servants and other officers. If she didn't hear it from one, she heard it from another, and it seemed to be inescapable. The walls where thin and it seemed as if each one had ears. Finally she had had enough and just wanted to get away from everything even if it was just for a little while. Tearing through her wardrobe she found a simple and very casual dress that would pass for something to ride in. After changing her clothes, she headed out to the stables. The horse that she had ridden to Cornwallis's headquarters on the first day was amazingly still there. Being cared for as if it were hers.

She grabbed a saddle and bridal from the tack room and caught the horse in it's stall. She synched down the settle tight and lead him out to the door where she could look out and clearly see the front gate. She waited there patiently and well hidden for almost an hour before she heard someone shout for the gates to be opened. A supply wagon had arrived and was coming in. She didn't want anyone to stop her and she knew they wouldn't open the gates for her if she begged and pleaded for days. Once the gates were open she mounted the horse and kicked the doors of the stable open. With in seconds she was through the courtyard and out of the gates. Without looking back she could hear shouting, orders being barked out, and some trigger-happy soldier actually fired a shot. Marian didn't stop; look back or even slow down. "I'll be back soon enough, just not yet". It had been weeks, and being coped up listening to disheartening words, surrounded by nothing but evil glances and hate full words because she shared Tavington's name, was too much for her to take. They we're well behind British lines, what harm would going out for a while do. If the lines had changed she was sure she would have heard about it.

It was a distance before the road got into forest area; there was a wide-open field in between. Finally after riding hard and fast for a while knowing that a detachment was Probley sent out after her, she came to the edge of the woods. Once well inside, she dismounted off the horse and left the main path. Pressing against some trees behind a thicket, hiding herself and her horse she heard the sound of thundering hooves roar past. She looked after them once they passed, she waited until she could no longer hear or see them before bringing herself and the horse out. Then Marian mounted up again and took off in the direction of the river. Everything looked so quiet, so peaceful; it was easy to forget that there was a war on. Once to the river, she got down again and walked up to the edge of the water then sat down next to it. Staring at her image, she began running things around in her mind. What if the roomers were true, what if he had really earned that nickname, "The Butcher". Not that it mattered; she loved him to much to believe any of the things that were said. She had seen his heart, and no man who showed love as he did could possibly do all of these things that they were accusing him off. She's not sure that she would believe it if it was seen with her own eyes. Throws a rock in the water. Besides, it was after all a war things happen sometimes that can't be helped. These people who keep running to Cornwallis could easily be misinterpreting the situation.

One rock right after another went into the water, until she ran out. She knew she was going to get an ear full when she got back, but it was worth it just to get a way for a while and be able to think. When she looked at her image again, she found another face besides her own looking into the water. Instantly she jumped up and whirled around staggering back a little. A man stood there and she could tell by his dress that he was a Colonial, and Militia. The man put his hand up, "Woh, it's alright Miss, I didn't mean to frighten you." She began looking around frantically for help. The last time that she had a run in with militia, they killed the servants of the house and marked her as a harlot. There was no desire to repeat the incident. Marian picked up a good sized rock from nearby. "Now miss, just put that rock down. I'm not going to hurt you." "If I'm captured, it won't be alive this time." "You've been captured? Miss my I ask who it was that you were captured by?" "IT DOSEN'T MATTER!!! I won't be taken again!!" She said pitching the rock at him as hard as she could before taking off running.

Jumping over fallen Trees and rocks, she could hear his foot step getting closer behind her. When she thought that she might have escaped him, she tripped over a patch of weeds and hit hard on the ground. While she was kicking her foot free, the man fell onto her as she started to scramble to her feet. Fighting for him to let her go wasn't working. "LET GO OF ME!!" She shouted as threatening as she could manage under the circumstances. The man wrestled with her for a little bit longer before managing to him her arms down next to her head. "Miss claim down, please? Now, what are you doing all the way out here? Don't you know that there's a war on?" "OF COURSE I know that, do you think I'm daft?" "No I just think you might be a long way off from home." "I'll get back alright, just let me go!" "I really can't do that, there's Red Coats everywhere. I saw a bunch of them riding off that way." Marian began struggling again and they wrestled around for another few minutes. When she saw her chance, she brought her knee up hitting her mark as hard as she could, stunning the rebel long enough to get away from his grasp. Getting up starting to take off again, she ran strait into another man hitting him so hard it knocked her back and down. She shook her head in a slight daze, before she froze in place locking her eyes on the ground and didn't dare to look up. There were more then two 15 maybe 20 of them and she was surrounded. She was in trouble and she knew it.

She was too scared to look up. Knowing full well that she might have been able to handle one but this many was out of the question. Still not looking up she could hear them talking. "What's this?" She heard the one that seemed to be they're leader say. Then another with a very thick French accent. "What dose it matter, she's seen us. Let's just slit her throat before she has a chance to tell anyone." Marian jumped to her feet upon hearing that. They looked at her in surprise at the suddenness of her movements. For the first time she looked at them and centered on the one that seemed to be the leader, that was standing there with the French man.

"I don't know who any of you are, just go your way and let me go mine." Her words shocked them a little bit, it shocked her too. Forcing her words out, she had hardly expected those to be the ones that passed through her lips. Her voice didn't break or quiver and she met their gaze with a strong one of her own. Terror ripped through her body but she tried not to let it show. Tavington had told her once when he was seeing her before they were married that fear didn't help anyone. It was a sign of weakness, and made you very vulnerable. Remembering that she stood tall and looked anyone in the eye who looked at her. The thought had crossed her mind to pick up another rock, but she looked and saw that all of them were armed and it would be futile to pick up a useless weapon. Not having a whole lot of options she searched for more, keeping her wits close by.

"I don't think we need to do that, she's a child. Why would she tell the British anything." Having heard that, Marian realized that they thought she was a colonialist. Which she still was, but they didn't know that she was the wife of a British officer. She quickly decided that it wouldn't be incredibly wise to tell them that she was. Especially with the reputation her husband seemed to have with the colonels and his own troops. He turned his attention to her again, "Miss, what are you doing all the way out here?" She looked around, "I came out riding a few hours ago." He smiled a little bit, he had a very kind smile which seemed out of place with the other faces that stood in the small clearing and behind the close trees. "Well, I can't say that a ride behind British lines a keen idea for an afternoon activity when there's a war on." She looked at their clothing, "And I can't say that a band of militia taking a stroll in the woods behind British lines a very safe activity when there's a war on." The Frenchmen that stood next to him started drawing out his pistol and she fixed her stance getting ready to run. Seeing her move, the leader looked at the Frenchmen standing next to him stopping from drawing the gun from it's place. Seeing him stop the gun that was going to be used on her, she locked eye contact with him again. "Sir, I beseech you. Please just let me go, I know my way. I can do you no harm." He took a few steps towards her, and she took the same number back. He stopped knowing he wouldn't get any closer.

"Miss, I really can't in let you go by yourself in a good cautious. British officers have no compassion for civilian women and children. You will most likely be captured and killed if I let you go." Her voice broke a little bit seeing her chance of escaping getting away, "I'll take my chances." she said looking at the Frenchmen who seemed more then in favor her death. "You have nothing to fear, you'll be safer with us Miss......" "Marian. My name is Marian." She made it clear that "Marian" was what she was to called by, hoping they wouldn't ask for anything more. He nodded, "Okay, Marian. Where's your horse." "I don't know he ran off down by the river." "Then you'll have to go with us on foot." He turned and looked at another man standing close to him, "Gabriel stay with her." He looked around at the others, "Let's move out. Quickly before that patrol comes back this way again." With in minutes she was swept up in their ranks as they moved swiftly and quietly. She looked over at the one assigned to stay with her. He looked very kind and not that many years older then he. "Gabriel." He looked at her, "Is that your name?" "Yes mame." She looked back at the leader in front of them. "He's your father isn't he." Gabriel looked at her a little surprised, "Yes, yes he his." She smiled and looked down where she was walking as she stepped over some rocks. "You have his eyes Gabriel." "Well, I'll take that as a complement." She smiled, "That's how I meant it. You sound as if he's fallen out of favor with you." "Not really, there's just a lot about him I don't understand sometimes." she nodded. He looked at her again, fascinated at all the knowledge she seemed to have knowing she was younger then he. "Can I ask you something?" She looked at him, "Of course Gabriel." "Why did you run? We're you afraid of being caught out here?" She looked at him for a moment. Then looked back at the ground, " I didn't want to be captured again." her voice was very quiet and quite solemn showing him that it was a memory she didn't reall care to remember. He looked down at his own feet then looked back at her, "Who captured you." She looked up meeting his eyes, and said nothing as she quickened her pace and walked ahead of him. He looked down at his own path realizing that she wasn't about to talk to him or anyone else about it.

Even though the others in the group where staring at her, she kept her eyes to the ground and paid them no mind. She was getting used to being the center of evil glares, this was no different then with the British in Cornwallis's own headquarters. Therefore she handled it the same way. It seemed as if they had been walking forever when they came to a clearing where there where a bunch of horses. They're own horses that they had left behind and continued on foot. She watched them as they mounted. The leader turned his horse and looked back at her. "Where a little short on horses, your going to have to double up with someone." "Where are you taking me." "We're taking you to the nearest town behind our lines and then we shall say our goodbyes." "What of my horse." "Well, if he ran off down by the river then he's probley long since been back in his barn eating oats." He walked his horse over towards her and put his hand down to her for her to take. She stepped back away from his hand and the horse. He sat up and looked at her, "Marian, please don't make this any harder then it has to be. You lost your horse, and it's a long way to anywhere on foot." Still she refused to take his hand to ride with him. The Frenchman rode over next to him, "We don't have time for this." He rode over quickly to where Marian was and reached down scooping her up with one arm and pulling her onto his horse in front of him. She only fought him for a moment until he proved to be stronger then her, then she stopped fighting and looked away from him. He rode his horse back over to where the leader was sitting on his horse, "We're wasting time Colonel, we should be on our way." He nodded and they began riding off, right into colonial territory.

They had been riding for a very long while. These Colonials must have been a long way from they're territory. Marian had been fighting a small struggle of her own. This Frenchmen kept fighting his grip each time she let her breath out so she couldn't take another. Just trying to antagonize her for no apparent reason that she could see. "So do you have a name or do they just refer to you as Frenchman." She said pulling at his arm trying to get him to loosen his grip. "What is that any concern of yours." He said gruffly obviously not approving of her in the slightest. She turned and looked at him as much as she could, "Sir? Have I done something to you? What was it that was so terrible you can't even give me the mere common courtesy of telling me what your name is?" He looked at her meeting her gaze then looked back at the road. Another minute passed and she turned back deciding that he wasn't going to say anything else. The silence was cut with the words, "Jean Villeneuve". She looked at him for a moment, then looked back ahead that the road. "It's nice to met you." He looked at her a little shocked at the gentleness and content of her response. Then just looked ahead at the road.

Meanwhile, Colonel Tavington had just finished running down several of the militia member's homes along the Santee. Burning them one by one, killing any who dared to resist.

Borden, his second in command rode up beside him, "Sir. This was the last rebel dwelling in this area." "Good. Any news of the Colonial militia whereabouts?" "Not yet sir, but we do have some prisoners to be questioned." "Good. I think it's time we started back to camp for the day." "Yes sir." They rounded up they're ranks and started off down the road towards British lines.

Meanwhile, the band of Colonial Rebels had just arrived in the town they had intended to leave Marian at. When they stopped, she jumped down off the horse, more then happy to get away from the Frenchmen's grip. They're leader road up beside her, "You should be able to get home from here. You're a ways away from the British boarder now." She smiled and nodded just wanting them to ride away, and leave her there. He nodded to back to her and Gabriel rode up beside him and smile for her, then they took off down the road. She shook her head watching them disappeared and sighed. Then began walking along the roadside in the direction of Cornwallis's headquarters. It was a very long way on foot, but she had no horse hers was probley back at the fort where it's grain was by now.

They were only trying to help her, they didn't know that she was with the British now instead of the Colonials and she wasn't about to be the one who would correct the mistake. She had been walking for hours, and she could see dusk begin to fall. It was going to be dark before long. She quickened her pace a little bit, knowing full well it wasn't really going to get her anywhere any faster. Then she heard the sound of thundering hooves coming up fast behind her. She turned just in time to see the Dragoons riding around the corner. The words "Oh no" slipped from her lips as she saw Colonel Tavington, her husband raising his hand to halt the entire company. He rode up beside her looking around to see if anyone else was with her, or even a horse. Then he looked down at her for some kind of explanation trying to figure out what was going on. She swallowed hard and smiled up at him. That simple action explained everything he knew her well enough, and the look on his face let her know how displeased he was.

He reached down letting her take his hand, and she swung up behind him on the horse. "William I.... " "Don't.... .say anything." She nodded and wrapped her arms around him to hold on. He put his hand up again, and gave the order to continue. She decided he was going to lay into her later, and she had better enjoy the silence while it lasted. It made her feel a little better when she realized he wasn't taking her back to Cornwallis's headquarters, but with them to the camp. There was no hurry to return there, in the least bit.

Once inside the camp, He got down first then turned and helped her down. He sort of passed her off to an orderly. "Take her to my tent." He looked at Marian, "Stay there and don't leave it. I'll be with you shortly." He turned and looked at Borden then Wilkins then started walking to another part of the camp as they followed. She watched after them then turned and looked at the orderly as he took her to his tent. She went with him walking in the opposite direction. It was a long time she waited in his tent. She sat in the chair that was in the room sort of swinging her feet around. It was a nervous habit that she had developed that was considered to be un-lady like, but she was there by herself and no one would see. Suddenly there was a blood-curdling scream that came from the far end of the camp. It sent chills through her spine. Jumping up she went outside of the tent, and saw many of the other soldiers looking the same direction the horrid sound came from. She didn't run that way, something told her she didn't really want to see what it came from. In the distance she did see however Borden and Captain Wilkins coming out of the tent at the far edge of the camp following Tavington. She looked around seeing that everyone had pretty much gone about they're business once more.

Tavington turned and gave orders to Wilkins and Borden, "Well that didn't get us anywhere now did it." Borden looked at Wilkins, " I'm sorry sir, if I would have just kept him alive a few moments more..." "He wasn't going to say anything Borden. If you couldn't see that your as blind as a bat." He took out his handkerchief and began wiping off the red that had found it's way to his face. "Wilkins, any news on that town we heard rumored." "Yes sir, Pembroke. It's about a day and a half ride from here." "Well, I think it's time the fair people of Pembroke got a little visit from the British Military forces. Don't you?" He looked at him making sure his meaning got across. He had an utter distaste and disgust for traitors. Giving supplies and aid to Benjamin Martian and his rebels, the thorn in Tavington's side, was treason. "Dispose of the body Captain, and keep it out of sight, there's a woman in the camp."

He turned and started walking back towards his own tent. Marian saw him coming and dove into the tent, knowing full well she should not have been outside of it in the first place. He had seen her and shook his head as he walked back to the tent. She waited watching the door for him to come in. Hearing the scream had her rattled, it was the most horrid sound she'd ever heard. Tavington ducked into the tent carrying his helmet it him, he walked over to the vanity and put it down removing his gloves and loosening the top buttons on the jacket of his uniform. "William? What was that?" "What was what dear?" "I heard a scream just a few moments ago." "Nothing you need to concern yourself about my dear." He turned and looked at her. "Alright, now explain to me what you were doing, on foot, in the middle of a war zone, with no escort, no horse and no weapons. I'm pretty sure that Lord Cornwallis didn't let you out of the walls of the headquarters knowingly." She looked at him and swallowed. Right now he seemed claim and relatively not angry, but she had seen that change in seconds before. The wrong answer, or a smart answer would almost undoubtedly set of that temper that she had only seen the full force of once. There was no desire to see it again. She took a breath, "I had to get out William, I couldn't remain there, I just wanted to get away from all of it for a little while." He hadn't expected that, he wondered what had been going on. "Get away from what my dear? What was so terrible that you would risk your life like this?" She looked at him for several moments. She had wanted to talk to him for months, now here he was and her thoughts were all cluttered around and she was trying to put them in order. "The things they've been saying about you, the stories they bring back, the way when they speak of you each word drips with contempt. Everyday when I wake up a new tale of horrid things that "The Butcher" had done the day before." He looked at her, half in shock that all this had reached her ears. He was a little horrified that she heard about what was going on in the war that much. She was just getting started, and overwhelmed with the thoughts, she had kept to herself for months not daring to say out loud, she began pacing the floor. "Every week day after day the roomers getting worse, and it was obvious they were ten times as worse on the field as in Lord Cornwallis's headquarters. Lieutenants and Captains, pleading for the removal of your command, other Colonels. I had to get out and away, I had already once spoken my mind to Lord Cornwallis and I didn't want to do it again." It was all to much. She had thought that her life was lost earlier when she was actually captured by the Colonial militia, she was almost in tears and it was embarrassing. " I'm sorry William please forgive me, I swear to you I'll never disobey you again, I'll stay where you tell me, I'll go where you tell me, I'm sorry.... " She couldn't go on, He walked over and took her in his arms letting her cry on him. Normally he despised women's tears, it sickened him beyond belief. He also knew that she was fighting with herself and the rest of the world trying not to let the realization that everything she heard wasn't a roomer. It was all true, but she'd never say it out loud or admit it to herself. It amazed him that anyone on this earth held him in such regard as she did, knowing what he had done and would continue doing and not really caring. Still loving him despite his faults.

After a while she had calmed down, and started apologizing again. "I'm sorry William." She wiped the tears away from her face. Looking away from him, she felt awful having let herself go and cry like that. He put and finger under her chin and tilted her head back so she had to look at him. "I'll find somewhere else for you to stay. The headquarters of a military commander in the middle of this godforsaken war wasn't exactly the best place to leave you." He kissed her forehead. "It's alright my dear. I'm not angry, I'm just glad that your alright and it was I that found you and not a renegade band of rebels." Her eyes got wide leaning her head on his shoulder. Thinking about it, she didn't think it would be wise to tell him everything that happened. What would be the point; she didn't know where they were going. She just held onto him, like she had been wanting to do for months, for as long as it would last. Who knows once he left how long it would be before she saw him again.

Just then one of his privates burst into the tent. She let go of him quickly standing back away from him. Not exactly a public act. Tavington turned and roared furiously, "HOW DARE YOU ENTER MY TENT WITHOUT EVEN CALLING OUT!!!! Have you not heard of Knocking!?!?!" Looking at the private he looked as if he wished the ground would open up and swallow him where he stood. He was almost shaking with fear. All he could do was conjure up a week salute. He must have been a relatively new private....or he had seen Tavington's temper before. "Uh sir.... sir I. ... uh..." "OUT WITH IT SOLDIER!!!" The private jumped a little bit. "Sir, General Cornwallis is on his way here. He will be here in minutes." Tavington let out an annoyed sigh. "Is he really." The private had delivered his message and was more then egger to vacate the tent. Tavington went over to the mirror and started straitening up his uniform. Marian looked at him, "William should....what should I.... ." He turned buttoning the top button of his jacket heading for the door, "You stay here." Then he ducked out of the tent.

Tavington saw where Cornwallis and his escort had ridden in and had already dismounted. He walked out and saluted the General, before standing at attention. Cornwallis walked up to him, "Colonel Tavington." "Sir." "I come baring tragic news, shall we go inside?" Tavington began walking with him to his tent. Cornwallis began talking on the way, "It would seem, that Lady Tavington your wife, has gone missing." Tavington looked at him preparing to say something as they stopped just outside the tent, but Cornwallis continued, "I assure you that we are making every possible effort to find her Colonel Tavington. I dispatched several patrol units to find her, before the Colonials do." Tavington tried to get a word in but Cornwallis wouldn't allow it, "but General Cornwallis, sir...." "Don't worry Colonel, I'm sure she's fine." Just then he pulled open the door of the tent and ducked in as Colonel Tavington followed him. Cornwallis stood up strait as his eyes met Marian's and he froze a little in shock. Tavington looked at him, waiting for a response from the General hoping that the he would take the fact of his just being a complete ass too hard.

Cornwallis stared at her for a moment, his jaw clenched tight in annoyance. She smiled at him and curtseyed spitefully never once taking her eye contact from him. "Good after noon General Cornwallis, I hope that you are well." He looked at Colonel Tavington waiting for an explanation; Colonel Tavington took a breath and gave a bored sigh, "We picked her up on the way back from our patrol along the Santee on the main road. She lost her horse, and was on foot." Tavington didn't mind the chance to grind his heels into the general, after everything. Cornwallis looked at Tavington and went outside the tent expecting him to follow him immediately. Tavington gave out an annoyed sigh before looking at Marian and ducking out of the tent after the General. He looked seeing the general staring off into the woods obviously furious at the entire situation. Taking a breath, Tavington walked up behind him waiting for him to be ready to talk to him.

All at once Cornwallis turned and walked right up to Tavington who was standing at attention, "You sir, need to get a handle on your wife. She's insubordinate, independent and mule headed Colonel. She speaks her mind whenever she feels and she has absolutely no idea how conduct herself in her station." Tavington was a little shocked, but remembered his place and that the General was his commanding officer, "How would you have her be sir? She's a very intelligent woman which is one of the many reason I chose her to be my wife." Cornwallis raised his voice, " Her tongue is quick to speak to defend things that she doesn't even understand. To defend her distorted view of things that she only knows bits and pieces of!" Tavington met his stare head on, as he said unwavering, unblinking and very sternly, "Is it wrong for a wife to defend her husband." Cornwallis looked down at Tavington processing Tavington's words knowing that continuing off that point would open a can of worms, "That is beside the point Colonel." Tavington wanted to reply, but he had other things to worry about besides something as petty as this. Cornwallis took another step towards him, "You will keep her under control Colonel." His stare just as strong as Tavington's had been, showing him how his life, his everything rested in a word from the General to the king. Cornwallis walked around him going back to another part of the camp where his escort was in wait, Tavington turned and watched him walk away.

He knew all to well the familiar signs of jealously raring it's ugly head. Where as Tavington should have been upset, a small victorious smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. No matter what Cornwallis decided in the end, no matter the out come of the war, no matter the honor and the glory that Cornwallis would be taking from Tavington's victories that the Colonel longed for to replenish his families reputation, in the simplest of terms......He would always be the one who got the girl. He went back into his tent, victorious.

Going back into the tent, he found Marian as she was waiting for him, to find out what was to become of her. "Your going to go back with General Cornwallis for now. Until I can find you a safer place to stay." She nodded knowing that it would do no good to argue. She had already caused enough trouble for one day. "It might do you good to try and keep quiet about things you may here or see in the quarters until then my love. There are several things going on right now, that are being done to insure our future, and stating the obvious, or letting on how much you know could upset that, and possibly put you in danger." She looked around the room a little confused, "William, I don't....understand...what kind of......." He looked at her, and she instantly knew that he was not to be questioned. "When the war is over, we can forget about all of this, but right now we are in the middle of war and things must be done."

She was slightly frustrated at the situation, "You all tell me the same thing over and over when I ask you about it. When you don't tell me, I can't help but automatically assume the worst. There ripping your honor to shreds behind your back to Cornwallis William, and maybe some of them are bold enough to do it to your face. How can you stand that?" He walked over and looked at her sternly, "It's jealousy that causes them to run and report to General Cornwallis. They are eager to put me out of the field because I can do, what they will not." She could feel the tension in the room change, and the tone in his voice accompanied by the look in his eyes was frightening. He continued on, "One day they will see that I brought them to victory, even though that they'd never speak it allowed for fear someone might hear that I was right from there own mouths." Her eyes got wide seeing the malice in his thoughts, and the disgust in his voice. He looked at her drawing her closer, his stance and voice still not changing and she jumped slightly feeling his hand on her, "I will do what is necessary to insure our lives, for if I do not we shall have none. Do you understand?" She stared at him to terrified to say anything and just nodded nervously. He kissed her cheek softly, even though there was no tenderness behind it as he turned and took her to the tent door, "I'll find another place for you to go as soon as possible. You don't want to keep General Cornwallis waiting." She nodded again as they ducked out of the tent, he all but passed her off to one of the privates walking by telling him to take her to her horse. Then turned returning back to his tent, Marian twisted and turned calling out to him, "William? William!" The private following orders didn't let go of her arm or stop. Tavington without paying another ounce of attention to her went back inside. Getting on her horse, she rode next to Cornwallis without saying a word the entire way back.

One of Tavington's Scouts came into his tent, with Wilkins close at his heals. "Sir, we have some information that you might want to here." Tavington was still annoyed and didn't even look to them, as the Scout started to speak slightly out of breath, "A town, called Pembroke has been aiding the ghost in giving them food, supplies, information, what ever they need." Wilkins spoke up quickly, "I used to live not far from there, I can take you to it." Tavington picked up his dagger from off the vanity and unsheathed it looking at the silver blade. "Captain." Wilkins stood at attention, "Give the order for the dragoons to mount, have them ready to leave in no more then an hour. Understood." "Yes sir." They still stood watching him, Tavington continued to look at the blade as he raised his voice, "Did I stutter Captain." "No sir." They immediately left the tent as Tavington looked up from the blade still turning it over between his fingers. Before tossing it down on the Vanity.

Not a word was spoken between them the entire way back to the headquarters. Each time Cornwallis glanced at her, she hardly noticed if at all. Her eyes just remained on the road before them. Thinking about William, his words and what he'd said. It was a side of him that she always somehow knew existed, but this was the first she'd ever seen it with her own eyes. It should have frightened her, but instead just made her worry all the more about him. The stress of the war, the pressure from the others of his majesties forces, General Cornwallis breathing down his neck at every turn. All of this was weighing on his mind, and she could understand that. But still, his temper, which she had witnessed before, was one thing, this was something quite different. She sighed softly thinking about all of these things wondering how he'd been strong enough to bare it this long.

I wished that it was possible that I could stay with him, just for the night. Try and ease his mind a little bit, take some of the pressure and share his pain, but he'd sent me away. He was just worried about my being safe, and my being there would have endangered the camp. Which just would have made everything worse. I remembered back when we were courting, it was rare because he was always sent on mission after mission, sometimes a month went by with out getting to see him. But when he did come, it was always to spend time with me. I saw him riding up to the boarding house in his uniform. He looked so handsome, his colors always standing out against the dismal setting, the bright crimson, contrasted by the gleaming white, and forest green. The golden buttons on his vest and jacket always polished up shinny and almost as if they were bran new and never worn.

A small smile found it's way to my lips as we rode on in the memory. He was a very handsome solider, but I found him even more attractive as my husband, my love. No matter what his faults might be, no matter what kind of things where said about him behind his back. Because the cowards would not dare say it to his face. The small smile fled as these thoughts entered my mind. I wished there was some way to make them all see how wrong they are about him. They don't know him as anything but the stories they hear. If they got to know him, up close, and as a man instead of the solider.......but they will not. They are happy thinking of him as a heartless monster, with no emotions, perhaps not even see him as human. But he was human, and someday they would all be able to see that just as I do every time I look into his eyes and......

Her thoughts were interrupted when out of no where she heard Cornwallis's voice, "I would, appreciate it my dear if you did not run off from the headquarters like you have done ever again. I had nearly every available man combing the country side looking for you. You could have been hurt, or even worse captured." He looked at her to see what her reaction to his request, She continued to look at the road before them letting him talk, there wasn't really anything she could say. He continued on, "These men, are not civilized men, do you have any idea what could have happened to you? What could have happened if they discovered that you were the wife of a British officer?" Her eyes closed for a moment before her eyes opened and went downcast, as her eyes looked at the spot that the material of her dress covered over her arm, that a strange sort of scar had take it's shape. She knew what could have happened to her, she also remembered that the man they called, "Benjamin" and his son, "Gabriel." Where more then kind to her as they thought she was still a colonial. She may have been born, and raised here but since she married William, she was the wife of a British Officer of his majesties forces. And the question wondered through her mind of weather or not they're attitude would have changed greatly if they knew. If they would have let that French man slit her throat as it seemed he was fond of suggesting. She swallowed hard at the memory as Cornwallis continued to talk,

"The next time you wish to go joy riding, please say something. I could at least send you with an escort, in a place or direction where there has been no rebel activity. Do not do that again madam. Do you understand?" He asked looking at her once again as he finished scolding her. Her eyes remained downcast as she nodded slowly, "I am sorry that I caused such distress. I promise that I will not do it again General Cornwallis." He nodded satisfied with her response as the headquarters where now coming up in the distance. Only God himself knew how long it would be until Marian could see William again, but he'd promised that he would get her out of there before long. And he'd never broken a promise to her. She doubted that he would start now.

She looked down at her tattered clothing and sighed softly, before looking at her hand where her wedding ring used to be before it was stolen from her. She brushed the empty space over with her fingertip. It's not like she needed one, they're marriage wasn't a small piece of circular gold. They were bonded together somehow before it was even given her. She'd stand by him, and stay with him no matter what. For if she did not, then who would.

Two days went by, Marian was sitting in her room writing in her journal. William had said that she could not write him, less it fall into enemy hands and put her and him at risk. But she kept a daily journal of all the letters that she would write to him, and all the thoughts that she wished she could tell him of, and the dreams for their future that they had spoken of when they spent those two weeks at General Cornwallis's plantation before it was burned down. The sound of slamming doors and running footsteps in the hall way, tore her from her writings as she put down her pen closing the book as she went to the door and opened it stepping out into the hall to see what the commotion was. She was nearly knocked back into the room but stepped out of the way just in the time to only be bumped slightly. She watched as the uniformed gentleman, with what seemed like fire burning his feet, make his way down the hall and disappear into Cornwallis's office. "A TOWN, AN ENTIRE TOWN BURNED ALIVE IN A CHURCH GENERAL!!!!" She heard the out of breath, and incredibly panicked voice laced with pure horror. "WOMEN, AND CHILDREN ALL OF THEM BURNED ALIVE BY COLONEL TAVINGTON'S MEN SIR!!!" She heard that clear enough, a series of hisses came next as the door of his office instantly were closed and the bolts pulled back to keep any other words spoken inside the office.

It was shocking news to say the least and she couldn't help the look that swept her face at the words that were spoken aloud in such a way. William couldn't have ordered such a thing, could he have? Civilian Women and Children? There must have been a reason, he wouldn't have done something of this magnitude with out cause or reason. She knew William and he wasn't like that. She looked back down the hallway where the double doors were that the soldier had gone into stepping out further into the hall but stopping not wanting to get any closer, even though she wanted to know more. That man must have been mistaken about his information.

In Cornwallis's office, "Hold your tongue Captain, have you taken leave of your senses to come in shouting gruesome information in such a way?" Cornwallis hissed at him walking towards the double doors hoping that Marian was either asleep or had not heard, before looking back at the man. "Calm yourself, then tell me what it is you have come here to tell me." The man nodded as he took a few deep breaths trying to regain his composure. "A Town......Pembroke just beside the Santee river.... .all of them are dead.... .Colonel Tavington ordered that they be locked in the church meeting house, and then set it afire....burning it to the ground, everyone inside burned alive." He shook his head, "No one...no one survived, sir." He said looking at the general. Terror and horror sweeping his face at the deep anguish he felt from seeing such a scene then learning how it had come to pass. Cornwallis turned and walked to the window looking out of it. This wasn't exactly the sort of thing that the King would approve of, nor anyone else. They were after all, brethren. These people had English blood running through there veins, or had rather. It was a horrid way to die, even more so with your family and loved ones by your side. He sighed continuing to look out the window before looking down slightly, "Thank you Captain, it will be dealt with soon enough." The Captain couldn't believe his ears, it was as if it was a small insubordinate action, rather then the murder of an entire town, "B...But sir..." He began, but General Cornwallis turned looking at him, "That will be all, Captain." He said sternly. The Captain saluted before leaving as he was asked. Cornwallis looked back out the window once more, before closing his eyes, feeling a headache take form in his head. Ohio, was quite a large bit of land, for such inhuman, and brutal actions such as these that Colonel Tavington were taking on. He shook his head as he turned going to the doors of his office and opening them, intending to go to his chambers, as he stepped out of the office he looked up to see Marian standing there in the hall, the look on her face telling him that she not only heard what was said by the panicked solider, but the questions in her face and almost the pure confusion in her face. He wasn't sure how to handle this situation, and decided it was best not to handle it at all. Turning he closed the door to his office and without so much as a word or a second glance made his way down the hall disappearing into his chambers.

Marian saw him turn, and wanted to know what all that man had said to him, she took a step forward not wanting him to leave her like that without something, without knowing if William was alright, or if there was some reason behind such a shocking accusation. But nothing, as the door of Cornwallis's bedchambers closed and she was left alone in the hallway. She felt, completely helpless and feared that there was something that he didn't wish to tell her, and was terrified that William had been wounded. She turned looking down the hall where the Captain had passed her on the way back to the main entrance of the fort, she glanced once more towards Cornwallis's bed chambers before gathering her skirts and taking off down the hall, hoping to catch the Captain that had brought the dreadful news. She stopped looking around the main room seeing that he was being to ascend the steps to make his way back to his horse. Hurriedly she pushed through the heavy doors and called out to stop him, "Sir!!! Wait!! Please wait!!" She was the only woman in the fort, some looked, and some didn't how could anyone know for sure who she was talking to and the Captain didn't stop. She picked up her skirts and quickly went down the stairs, "Sir!!! Captain!!! Please wait!!." He stopped and turned as she let go of her skirts walking up to him, "Please...." He bowed to her, "Yes my lady? How may I be of service?" He said a little surprised to see her following after him in such a way. She caught her breath, "Sir....you've brought news of Colonel Tavington?" She said to clarify for sure that's what he was talking about and didn't make a mistake, the look on the Captain's face was one of curiosity, but also slight disgust at the mention of Tavington's name. "Yes my lady. News of that black-hearted scoundrels murderous acts." She didn't care what he called him, or really what he thought of him, "Please good sir, you must have seen him?" She inquired, anxiously. He looked at her wondering where this was going exactly and why she would be asking these questions of him, "Yes my lady, I was in the dragoon camp only yesterday." She stepped towards him gently taking hold of his arm looking up at him, "Was he...alright? Was he hurt?" He looked at her for a moment not sure why she was asking him this, "Just a small wound on his side from a scrimmage down by the waterfront of the Santee with some of the Colonial militia. A stab wound or a gunshot of some sort. Well deserved I'd say." Her eyes grew wide, as she said in a breathless whisper, "He was hurt badly?" Scared at what his answer would be, "I couldn't say my lady, he was in his tent and not taking visitors, I spoke with his second in command." That was all she needed to hear, she turned quickly heading for the barn not caring that she was not even in riding clothing.

Since the last time went she left the fort, Cornwallis had put a guard on the door of the barn. She ran past them heading strait into the barn, "My lady? MY LADY!!!" The guard said following after her. There were a few officers horses still saddled up as she grabbed a reign that held the horse to the post so it would not run off, the guard not exactly sure what to do, "My lady, what are you doing? Lord Cornwallis has said nothing of your wanting to go riding outside the fort today." "Lord Cornwallis will be in for great surprise then." She said, as she mounted the horse, not worrying that she was in a dress and the horse did not have a sidesaddle. She turned the horse to ride out from the door, but the guard reached up grabbing the reign right when she dug her heals into the side of the horse. The animal jumped but the guard held fast, "M...my lady, I can not allow you to...to go without some sort of order from General Cornwallis." She was getting angry to say the least, as she looked down at him from her horse, "Then I suggest you stop wasting time here and go and get that order which you seem so dead set on getting to ease your fearful and guilty mind." She took the heel of her boot and hit his arm from the reign as he released it before she ground her heals into the sides of the horse once more taking out from the barn into the courtyard making it through the open gates and catching up with the Captain who he and his escorts had already started off from, she rode past them without even a glance remembering where the dragoons had been when she was there the day before. She heard the shouts behind her and the quickened footsteps of the horses but paid them no mind. They would follow all the way back to the Dragoon camp but she would not stop before then. William was hurt, and in the back of her mind she was fearful that it was badly and she would not make it in time and it frightened her all the more. The troubles behind were nothing compared to her fears that plagued her mind and kept her eyes ahead. She knew she had promised that it wouldn't happen again, but nothing but William was crossing her mind at the moment, she could only hope and prey that he was alright.

The dragoons in the camp were sitting around talking about the past events of the days before. Nothing too much or very exciting going on at all. No one was talking very much about the scene at Pembroke, nor the screams or cries of the women and children that died inside the church that soon became a pile of smoldering kindling. It was something that would haunt their dreams for the rest of their lives, however long they were to be in this god-forsaken war. A few of the men stood up looking in the distance where a large cloud of dust could be seen being kicked up from the road, only moments later the sound of thundering hooves against the earthen ground below could be heard as Marian's horse suddenly broke from the tree line riding hard and fast for the encampment, followed moments later by the Captain and his escort. She road past the men, strait through the camp. The horse not even at complete rest before she jumped out of the saddle just outside Tavington's tent her skirts tripping her slightly as she paused only for a moment to reach down and gather them up so she could walk ducking into the tent, seeing William sitting up on his cot talking to his second in command. They both looked up to see her standing there in surprise.

"Marian." William said his eyes wondering over her appearance that was far from that of someone who was going out of the house, or to a more unheard of extent out riding in the countryside. But as his eyes wondered back up to her face, he could see the expression of fear, and worry in her face. "What is it my dear?" She wanted to run to him, she wanted to speak but with his second in command still in the tent, she knew her place and didn't want to upset William. But she also noticed that he did not stand when she came into the tent and it only enflamed her fears all the more. William's brow furrowed slightly when she didn't answer him, before he looked over to his Captain then looked back at Marian that must have been the reason why she didn't speak. "That will be all Captain." He stood up quickly saluting, "Yes sir." He turned back to where Marian was standing, "My Lady." He said with a bow before ducking out of the tent. He looked back at her a little puzzled for a moment, "Dear...why...." Before another word she crossed the room quickly falling to her knees before him reaching out and holding to his arm as she looked up at him, "William....are...are you alright?" She reached up touching his face gently, his hair was down and he only had his white shirt on. "They...they told me you were hurt." He looked down at the pain in her eyes that she felt from the terror, he could only imagine the thoughts that ran through her mind when someone told her that he was hurt. He could feel a rage grow at anyone who would tell her such a thing. He reached down cupping her face in his hand, trying to calm her a little bit, "it's just a scratch my dear." He wiped some of her tears a way with his thumb, "Nothing to cry over, it will heal." He leaned down and kissed her softly before looking into her eyes sympathetically, and smiled reassuringly for her, "It's nothing really."

As he started to pull back she quickly went up on her knees bringing her other hand up and holding his face gently as she kissed him hungrily. He was a little surprised at first, but welcomed the affection and his hands rested on her shoulders gently before the kiss finally parted, and she opened her eyes looking to his face but not drawing back. His eyes remained closed for a moment, reveling in the feel of his wife's soft lips that he'd long since been with out. "I'm always so afraid that you'll get hurt, wounded badly William." She whispered to him, fighting back the tears from the horror she'd felt from hearing of his wound, terrified that it could have been a mortal one. He opened his eyes looking into hers for a moment, seeing the concern in them. She found herself kissing him again, her hands still gently holding his handsome face as the kiss turned into a desperate, desire filled plea from her being to be held and be close to him. As the kiss parted once more she rested her forehead to his for a moment, both there eyes closed, "I've missed you William," She kissed him softly, "So much." With in a moment, his arms found there way around her pulling her close into his embrace as he kissed her deeply. She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him close returning his kiss, and just cherishing being near him. They were so close she could feel his heart beat deep with in his chest.

The kiss finally parted and they hugged each other close as she rested her head on his shoulder not wanting to let him go for an instant. Just as he could no longer bare to be without her close. Many a night had gone by where he'd laid awake in his narrow cot, cold and alone with out her close. His not being able to reach for her in the night, and finding her there beside him, although he knew that she would risk the wrath of heaven and hell to lay beside him no matter what the danger was. The only thought, and dream easing his aching desire for her to be there, was that the day the war was over would be the night that she would once more take her place by his side, an in his bed. Without the fear of being torn apart the next day, in some elegant house along the Ohio River front. With no ripping glares, no hate filled glances, not a single roomer to be heard by either of their ears. They would have each other when it was all said and done, and that was all that was ever needed. "I'll never leave you William, no matter what, I'll always be with you." He hugged her closer hearing those words. Burring his face in her shoulder as he held her tight. Just feeling her close, and there and feeling her warmth as they held each other. Afraid to let go, for the fear that either of them were dreaming once more and any moment they could wake up and be alone again in the darkness. His wounded side be damned. He couldn't help but begin to kiss the softness of her neck as he continued to hold her body tight to him. Reaching up brushing away the strains of hair that'd fallen from where they were held in place by the silver clips, to bare more of her soft skin to his reach. Savoring the taste of her, as he'd remembered and longed for each long lonely night he laid awake dreaming of her in his mind. Only another moment passed before he pulled her up from her knees on the floor into his lap as he wrapped his arms around her waist holding her once more. He looked into her eyes as he ran his finger tips down her cheek, "And I want you with me......for all time." He whispered, as he leaned towards her and their lips met once more, in a passionately tender kiss.

All time, everything around seemed to stop. Nothing else mattered, all she could see was him, all he knew was her. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew that she was not let go willingly, if even knowingly. He could tell by her dress, it was not the sort of dress one would wear on a ride. The Captain and his escorts never came to the door, outside they were stopped at the edge of camp. The Captain quickly learn of his error in words to her when he was informed that she was in fact Lady Tavington, Colonel Tavington's wife.

William could not get enough of her, her visit was unexpected to say the least but more then most welcome. For when he was wounded, even though he was glad she was not there when he'd first gotten back to see the gash in his side, he half wished that she was there with him. But she was here now, she was alive and safe, and she was in his arms where she belonged. As their kiss parted, see trailed gentle kisses down the side of his face, and over his handsome jaw line to his warm neck, where she kissed and savored him once more. His hands roamed over her form, as he still held her close but he longed to hold her body in his arms, without the restraints and barriers that layers and layers of clothing kept from him. Without thinking, more of his desires guiding his hands as they began to unbutton the back of her dress, before his fingertips found the collar of her dress and pushed it down over her shoulders gliding slowly over her warm silken skin, her white lace undergarments coming to show. She looked up at him as he brushed the few loose strain's of her golden hair back from her face looking deep into her eyes as he kissed her once more. He rested his cheek against hers holding her close to him as he whispered into her ear, "Let me see you my love, it's been so long." He leaned down and kissed her neck, "So very long." She knew what he was asking her as he kissed her once more, and she closed her eyes reveling in the feeling of his love. As the kiss parted he helped her to stand, and once she was on her feet, she took his hands in hers and helped him to stand from the cot as he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her once more holding her close as they kissed again.

His hands finding the rest of the buttons down the back of her dress until it slid down on it's own to the floor. Easily making short work of the petticoats that layered underneath as they soon joined her dress on the floor. He pulled her close to him enfolding her in his arms as he leaned down kissing over her shoulders as the thin lace material straps slid down completely baring them to him. William knew that he was the only one to have ever seen her, and knew that he would be the only one to ever see her in all her beauty, making him want her all the more. The last of her garments falling with the others on the floor about her feet, her hands still in his, as he stepped back letting his eyes wonder over her, taking in every inch of his beautiful wife. She watched his eyes that lovingly wondered over her now completely unhidden form. Feeling quite vulnerable, but a feeling she more then welcomed when she was alone with her husband. He pulled her close to him as he let go of one of her hands and cupped her soft cheek in his hand once more looking deep into her beautiful eyes. His fingertips finding the silver clips that held her hair up in place and gently removing them, letting her golden hair down, in a cascade of soft golden curls. He smiled tenderly as his fingers entangled in her beautiful hair softly, and he gently pulled her close once more kissing her passionately. His hands lovingly traveling down over her neck, and her soft shoulder pulling her body even closer to him as his hands continued to roam over her as they had done so many times in his dreams.

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