NationStates Jolt Archive

After a few minutes, Halona saw that a man was coming towards her. She pointed the gun at him, "What is it?"
After saying that William wanted to see her she lowered the gun slightly, got down off the horse and walked in to the fort. She straightened up when she entered the room, not allowing any man, however especially William think her a weak woman.
"You sent for me?"
She stood above him, looking down at him as she stood straight, for a moment feeling some kind of power that for a few seconds he sat below her. The young woman dismissed these thoughts and waited for his reply.

Reallydrunk']French Camp:

Sergent White accepted the food and sat there looking at Pierre,

"Some day i will return to england, to my wife and two childern..will i be permitted to have a pencil and paper?"

Pierre looked at him. "You may never be going to England. I have to see about paper or even a pen."

After a few minutes, Halona saw that a man was coming towards her. She pointed the gun at him, "What is it?"
After saying that William wanted to see her she lowered the gun slightly, got down off the horse and walked in to the fort. She straightened up when she entered the room, not allowing any man, however especially William think her a weak woman.
"You sent for me?"
She stood above him, looking down at him as she stood straight, for a moment feeling some kind of power that for a few seconds he sat below her. The young woman dismissed these thoughts and waited for his reply.

Crossley stood up slowly when she entered and stood above him, it looked as if he had afew drink in him,

"Halona, welcome to my fort...you shall have quarters here in the command building"

He picked up the drink and walked to the window looking out at the night sky,

"The America's are amasing, i have never seen such beauty..."

Soldiers outside played music on fiddles and flutes, a large fire roared sparks rising high in the sky,

"This country is somthing that i never could have dreamed.."

Pierre looked at him. "You may never be going to England. I have to see about paper or even a pen."

Sgt.White was startled by the responce of Pierre,

"Why do you say that..? after the war i mean...i would imagine once England defeats France, or France...

He paused cutting himself off..

"prisoners will be turned loose.."

A tired look crossed his face,

"I have been fighting this war sence it started..It has dragged on, maybe it will never end?"

Halona looked in his eyes until he had turned and walked towards the window. She let a few moments go bye in silence before she replied, "If this is what you think William, then you obviously do not know this country. Thank you for the quarters, I will have my own room? I will not sleep in your bed."
Her voice turned cold, and she tried to fight the rising anger with in herself;

Lt.Colonel Crossley turned around and replyed,

"Halona, i am starting to open my eyes to how it works around here...i will not return to England without defeating the bloody French, they will never take this fort!"

He started to anger slightly then calmed himself by taking a drink aswell as a deep breath,

"The natives..some of my men fear them, as did i..but..i am comming to understand them....wars are not the same here Halona, men do not know how gentleman conduct themselves while commanding an army on the field.."

Crossley closed his eyes briefly and let out a sigh,

"I find you easy to talk to for some reason, and it's only proper you receive your own personal quarters and anything you should require..."

He stared into her eyes for a moment then looked towards the wall, there a painting of London was hung,

OOC: Here is my fort....

http://www.tmterrain.com/images/18th/18th-15.jpg

Halona was surprised by his words of her being easy to talk to, but figured that it was because of the alcohol, which she had never tasted before. She took a step closer to him, then another step as her eyes left his face and moved down his body. It was the first time she had gotten a good look at him up close, and she lowered her head.
"Thank you for the quarters," Halona said softly, "I do apriciate it, I know I have hesatated in saying this however I think you a kind good man."
'What is wrong with you?'
Halona thought, however the native woman was being truthful, she just hoped he would not change or betray her.

(OOC: bump)

Halona was surprised by his words of her being easy to talk to, but figured that it was because of the alcohol, which she had never tasted before. She took a step closer to him, then another step as her eyes left his face and moved down his body. It was the first time she had gotten a good look at him up close, and she lowered her head.
"Thank you for the quarters," Halona said softly, "I do apriciate it, I know I have hesatated in saying this however I think you a kind good man."
'What is wrong with you?'
Halona thought, however the native woman was being truthful, she just hoped he would not change or betray her.

Crossley shook his head slowly and looked back to the native girl,

"Oh, i was thinking.."

He paused briefly then spoke again..

"Greed, my people are consumed with greed Halona...we control more land then we need or could ever use..."

The young British officer looked tired and stressed out,

"How long will it last? how long will we be in this place? for queen and country...?"

He took a sip of the brandy...

The young woman studied his face, noting that he looked tired and stressed out. The compassionate side of her took over, and she walked closer towards him and placed a hand upon his shoulder, "You are tired, you must sleep."
She reached for the drink with her other hand, "This will not help you."
She said firmly to him; then her tone changed, "Your people are greedy, however we all are to an extent."

The young woman studied his face, noting that he looked tired and stressed out. The compassionate side of her took over, and she walked closer towards him and placed a hand upon his shoulder, "You are tired, you must sleep."
She reached for the drink with her other hand, "This will not help you."
She said firmly to him; then her tone changed, "Your people are greedy, however we all are to an extent."

Crossley let her take the drink from his hand and sat on his table, he looked at her and said quietly,

"I can't sleep..i have many things to do, Queen and country.."

He continued..

"Your people give back to the land, respect it...use everything while we come and destroy it along with anything that stands in our way! I am a British officer commissioned by her Majesty to lead men and fight for the greatness of England...i will have no rest untill North America is under British reign..than will i rest.."

Lt.Colonel Crossley closed his eyes,

"Horrible things have happened here Halona...not the ways of a gentleman at all"

He reached for his glass again...

Halona took the glass from him, holding it in her hand as she took a step back listening to William's words.
"I know horible things have happened," the woman stated, "We all have gone through horible times in our lives. Just because my people respect the land does not mean we are good, does not mean they are good men."
When he reached for his glass again she backed up and held it out of reach, she not knowing what to do with it. She lifted the glass to her nose and sniffed it, then made a face.
"If I may be so bold William, what does this foul smelling stuff taste like?"

Halona took the glass from him, holding it in her hand as she took a step back listening to William's words.
"I know horible things have happened," the woman stated, "We all have gone through horible times in our lives. Just because my people respect the land does not mean we are good, does not mean they are good men."
When he reached for his glass again she backed up and held it out of reach, she not knowing what to do with it. She lifted the glass to her nose and sniffed it, then made a face.
"If I may be so bold William, what does this foul smelling stuff taste like?"

Crossley shook his head back and fourth then opened his eyes,

"Shit, it tastes like shit and brings out the worst in people..."

He listened to what she said carefully, he responded while slightly leaning to the right side, he blinked then sat right,

"The natives have reason to hate us Halona, truth is...we need your people as they have grown to need us, i hear the cheifs call us their white fathers...some respect us while others hate us and would rather see us rot..it has gotten personal with alot of people around here.."

William got up and walked to a cabnet, he reached in and pulled out a cup with another bottle of liquer,

"That personal vendetta drives men, they will come with the help of the bloody french and some one! some one! will be destroyed...here is this country...but the question is who?"

He poured a drink...

"I will kill any enemy who presents himself or comes across hostille..i do not forget my duty Halona, i am no longer scared as i was when i first came here...one must face facts in order to understand things.."

Halona raised an eyebrow as William spoke of the drink. She watched him stand and fetch another bottle. She set the glass down on another table and watched as he poured himself another drink.
"William, no," she said firmly as she reached her hand forward and snatched the glass, spilling some of the liquid on the wood.
"You do not need this," she stated looking in his eyes, trying to make him understand, "My people aren't good. If my father were to find me he'd kill me."

Halona raised an eyebrow as William spoke of the drink. She watched him stand and fetch another bottle. She set the glass down on another table and watched as he poured himself another drink.
"William, no," she said firmly as she reached her hand forward and snatched the glass, spilling some of the liquid on the wood.
"You do not need this," she stated looking in his eyes, trying to make him understand, "My people aren't good. If my father were to find me he'd kill me."


Crossley stumbled sideways and grinned..

"Well, maybe i have had enough.."

He wiped the table with his shirt sleeve then made a confused face,

"Why would he want to kill you Halona..."

His look then became serious.....

Halona gasped as she saw him stumble, and she placed the glass along side the other one, "Yes, you have had enough."
Halona leaned up against a wall, fixing her dark eyes upon William's face, "Because, I killed that man that tried to rape me, and something else; although when I tell it you may wish to do the same."
She walked over and picked up the pistol, in case for her protection, "William, I'm apart of the Huron tribe. I mean, I ran away from them, however I know they are with the french, however I am not..."
Her voice trailed off as she looked at him...

Captain O'Reilly said to Dumas, "We should find out more information from those prisoners." He walked out, and up ti Sergeant White. "Sergeant, I trust you remembered our last episode." He grinned, and continued, "Now, me boy, tell me why you fight. I, personally, can not stand you, and you had betwte answer every question I ask you, if you want to survive, ya fecking pissant."

Reallydrunk']Sgt.White looked at the Frenchman and replyed,

"If you have food to spare, my men before my self Sergent...i heard your officer arguing with that Mick, we all have suffered loss..we all know the meaning of pain..."

_________________________________
The Fort:

Damiens family would be provided with provisions and be given a simple room inside the fortress untill territory could be civilized. Damien was asked if he would consider joining the Militia in return for the kindness showed to him, the decision was left to him.

OOC: It would be impossible to torch my fort because it rests in a cleaing on a hill and has a few connecting trenches, therefore any man comming with a torch in the night would be spotted and shot. He would pretty much have a target painted on his forehead with a burining torch anyways...i think you are going to be faced with a siege gentleman.

Lt.Colonel Crossley is waiting and expects attack, he is fully aware they will attempt to take his outpost from him..but it is unfortunate it will not be easy for you.

OOC-Sorry for my lateness. The forums were not working.

Damien replied ''I wish to hold on to neutrality but I will consider joining the militia.'' As Damien and his family unpacked and began to adjust themselves, Zara, one of Damien's daughters walked around the fort, exploring it for herself.

''What an amazing fort.'' she thought as she walked, looking at the towers, buildings and soldiers.

Things seemed to be going well for Damien and his family.

OOC: I'll try and respond to this stuff in order, but I have a few OOC comments first...

Cherry Ridge, the hatred your men feel for the English is understandable, but Canadstein is right to take a gentlemanly stance against any action to the prisoners. IRL, war was very much a gentleman's affair, with prisoners treated humanely and exchanged quickly. In the Spanish penninsular campaign, French soldiers were eager to surrender to the British, who treated them with civility, over the Spanish guerrilla forces.

IC: Responding to Colonel Crossley first, Sharpe said, "That is excellent, sir. I do not yet know the full perameters of the fort; do we need additional men to man it fully? Also, would it be best if my galloper were placed on the wall?"

Then turning to Halone, Sharpe seplied, "Yes ma'am, as I said they may be illegitimate drunkards, but somehow they've become the best infantry in the world, and I'm proud of them.

But ma'am, if I may ask, what brings you here? It is rare to see a non-Iroquois with the British, and even rarer to see one of your gender?."

Responding to Sharpe:

Lt.Colonel Crossley continued to stand at attention and responded to Captian Sharpe,

"We need more men Sharpe...we are under streneth but all my men were told we would recieve about 2000 troops here at the fort..they know no different.. therefore they cannot speak on it truthfully.."

He paused...

"The French will not make it in these walls Captian, you are an officer in charge here now therefore i must consult you on decisions i make...understood?"

He continued to speak after a pause...

"General Bair must know of our situation, we will add your galloper gun to the wall of course...it will do good there...the other artillary peices we have will do no good in the field..they will also be added to the forts defences.."

___________________________________
French Camp:

Sgt.White shook his head and replyed,

"I do not know anything Mick, i am only but a company sergent...ask your questions but i do not have the answers you seek...so..do fuck off mate.."

_________________________________
The Fort:

Crossley's face remained serious,

"Halona i already knew you were keeping somthing from me...i know you will bring us no harm, or else i already would have hung or shot for a spy...do not underestimate my abilitys to judge and do not get them confused for my feelings about this situation..."

He glanced over at the drinks on the table...

"I must stop now anyways...i have to be able bodyied in order to lead men in the field..."

The door flung open and Major Munroe stepped halfway in..

"Sir!, The arrangements you have ordered have been completed...everything is in order..."

Lt.Colonel Crossley nodded then waved him out...

"Halona..i consider you a friend, no harm shall come to you no matter the situation...loyalty is a key factor in friendship is it not?"
_____________________________________________
The Fort #2:

Damien's family was allowed to explore the fort and get to know it's surroundings. They were informed outside the walls were dangerous and were out of bounds to any civilian person or persons wishing to go there for any reason what so ever. Major Munroe was informed Damien was considering the militia, Munroe knew mens minds changed rather quickly when themselves and their familys lives were at stake.

A dispatch rider went to Albany with the dispatch as follows...

"The French/Indians are bound to attack the fortress of her Majesty queen Anne, Reinforcements are required. The 1st battalion is garrisoned and ready for any hostille forces to approach, 95th rifles have arrived full streneth..."

OOC: The dispatch is fake, it should mislead any men in the area that get it...plus...if General baird gets it he will know whats up...

*Halona's reply to Sharp*
"I was captured," she stated plainly.

*reply to Crossley*
"You knew I was keeping something, however you did not know what," she stated as she sighed, "It is not something to spread around."
When the man that had stopped in to talk to William Crossley left, Halona sighed again.
"I trust that you will not say anything to him? If so..."
Her voice trailed off and she raised the gun.

*Halona's reply to Sharp*
"I was captured," she stated plainly.

*reply to Crossley*
"You knew I was keeping something, however you did not know what," she stated as she sighed, "It is not something to spread around."
When the man that had stopped in to talk to William Crossley left, Halona sighed again.
"I trust that you will not say anything to him? If so..."
Her voice trailed off and she raised the gun.

Lt.Colonel Crossley grinned when she raised the gun, he seen the look in her eyes then it left his face,

"Halona...you would face the same fate if you shot me, which i know you will not now..."

He paused...

"I will not tell of your past nor' can your father get you here....the Huron's days are limited if they continue to side with the French...my word.."

Crossley looked towards the window once more...

"My fort will not be breached by a bunch of frogs and heathens...that is the end of it, i will tell them the same thing i tell you..i would rather dig my grave behind my ramparts then submit.."

He raised his own pistol from behind the desk with the hammer already cocked...

"I am not stupid...nor do i trust anyone, even those of my own country.."

Halona sighed as she lowered the gun, "I'm sure you understand my need to protect myself from others. I trust you, so do not take that honor lightly."

Halona sighed as she lowered the gun, "I'm sure you understand my need to protect myself from others. I trust you, so do not take that honor lightly."


Crossley's face became serious once again,

"Trust and honor are not to be taken lightly, they could mean life or death in some situations"

He continued...

"I know trust is not easliy gained by your people and i am honored to have it, i will not betray you Halona...like i said before loyalty is a key.."

William glared at her...

Halona dropped the gun, it making a clanging sound as it hit the floor. She moved closer towards him, trying to think out her next move. She sudenly remembered something she had seen her father do when he had sealed a deal with a whiteman. She walked up towards William, extending her right hand and her left one remained at her side with the palm facing up so he would know that she held no weapons. She gazed in his eyes and held it before speaking, "I extend my hand to you, in trust that I will not go back on what I have said."

Halona dropped the gun, it making a clanging sound as it hit the floor. She moved closer towards him, trying to think out her next move. She sudenly remembered something she had seen her father do when he had sealed a deal with a whiteman. She walked up towards William, extending her right hand and her left one remained at her side with the palm facing up so he would know that she held no weapons. She gazed in his eyes and held it before speaking, "I extend my hand to you, in trust that I will not go back on what I have said."

Crossley sat the pistol on the table after easing back the hammer and extended his hand to her,

"Halona, i will not go back on what i have said...i will honor our agreement, i am not like the others before me!"

He gripped her hand lightly.....

Halona gave a slight smile, "Very well then, I trust that you aren't like that until you show me otherwise."
She firmly gripped his hand, her dark eyes not leaving his own. She stood, unsure of what to do next.
'Let go of his hand.'
A voice said in her head, and she eased her grasp until she did let it go. Her hand fell to her side before she said, "The world is gooing mad William, or it shal. Piece will not last long, I can feel it. The world needs loyalty and trust; I ask you, do you trust your queen of England? Or, do you fight for someone whom you have not met?"

Halona gave a slight smile, "Very well then, I trust that you aren't like that until you show me otherwise."
She firmly gripped his hand, her dark eyes not leaving his own. She stood, unsure of what to do next.
'Let go of his hand.'
A voice said in her head, and she eased her grasp until she did let it go. Her hand fell to her side before she said, "The world is gooing mad William, or it shal. Piece will not last long, I can feel it. The world needs loyalty and trust; I ask you, do you trust your queen of England? Or, do you fight for someone whom you have not met?"

Crossley was suprized by the question,

"The world is on fire, i have not known peace for awhile now...i have grown used to war, duty and loyalty to queen and country.."

He paused...

"I fight for my queen, the fact if i have met her matters not.." he snapped..

He calmed down then said slowly..

"I apoligize...i cannot stand when people question my loyalty, i would die for England...i have swore it! my word is solid as stone!"

"I am a patriot.."

Halona's face remained void of any expression, "William, why are you loyal to this queen?"

Halona's face remained void of any expression, "William, why are you loyal to this queen?"

Crossley responded immeaditly...

"She is my queen Halona, i need her as she needs me..."

He paused closing his eyes briefly looking as if he was going to pass out..

"She loves her people as we love her, we fight and die for her...i have no room in my life for a personal life, i am devoted to her service..even if it means dying in this place..i will do it with honor and pride.."

William Crossley stared off in space, the liquer was taking it's toll on him making him drowsey,

"What else have i here besides my men?..nothing...i have sworn to lead them against Englands enemys.."

Halona considered his reply, and yet said nothing for a few moments.
"William, what about your woman, was she not enough to hold you?"
She looked at him with concern, "Are you alright William?"

Halona considered his reply, and yet said nothing for a few moments.
"William, what about your woman, was she not enough to hold you?"
She looked at him with concern, "Are you alright William?"

William blinked three of four times then replyed with slurred words,

"I..im alright Halona...My woman? Anne? Anne is very dear to me and stands beside me in my judgment but she is 3000 miles away, safe..out of harms way.."

He ran his hand over his head,

"My loyalty is to queen and country, nothing stands in the way of that...not even the love of a woman...nothing can stop me from doing what i need to do Halona, not the French, not the natives..no one!"

"Do you trust me William? I realize your Anne must be a sweet woman and I wonder if she really does stand with you and understand you?"
She took a step back, "I never knowing love myself, so I can not say I understand your love for Anne. How did you become to court her?"
She stopped, realizing she was rambling on and on, "I'm sorry William."

"Do you trust me William? I realize your Anne must be a sweet woman and I wonder if she really does stand with you and understand you?"
She took a step back, "I never knowing love myself, so I can not say I understand your love for Anne. How did you become to court her?"
She stopped, realizing she was rambling on and on, "I'm sorry William."

Crossley all of a sudden woke up,

"Anne, she is..." he paused...

He then stopped speaking reaching into his pocket to reveal a pocket watch, he clicked it open to reveal a small portrait of a dark haired woman with a beautiful kind face,

"This is her...she is 17, her father General Webb gave her to me in marriage...she agreed, we both are high on the social ladder of England...a fine couple indeed"

He gazed off..

"She wanted kids before i left but i denied her, i didn't know what to expect here and didn't want the childern to be bastards...she was hurt..BUT! that is the end of that conversation"

Crossley cut himself off and watched the shadows bounce off the walls...

"She is pretty," Halona glanced at the small picture, "Not a savage like I am."
She moved back farther, "The man that I killed didn't deserve to live, the one that tried to force himself on me. If I would have become with child, the blame would be my own."
She stopped, unsure of why she had mentioned the event that had changed her life and made her change in so many ways.

"She is pretty," Halona glanced at the small picture, "Not a savage like I am."
She moved back farther, "The man that I killed didn't deserve to live, the one that tried to force himself on me. If I would have become with child, the blame would be my own."
She stopped, unsure of why she had mentioned the event that had changed her life and made her change in so many ways.

Crossley looked shocked at Halona's comment,

"You are no savage Halona, never say such a foul thing...be proud of who you are and what your roots are...look at us white's, aha we are oh so proud of who we are..."

The Lt.Colonel nodded,

"Some deserve to die, when it's their time it comes...but some tiems the innocent fall aswell.." he yawned...

The englishman closed his eyes once again and slowly leaned to the side then lay there sideways on the desk asleep....

The proud British officer lay still, his eyes shut...chest rising and falling..

Halona was about to reply when she saw him fall over and apparently pass out. She nearly laughed out loud as she saw the state he was in.
She walked over towards him, placing a hand on his shoulder, "Sleep well my friend."
She then turned, picked up her items and began to walk out of the room.

Halona was about to reply when she saw him fall over and apparently pass out. She nearly laughed out loud as she saw the state he was in.
She walked over towards him, placing a hand on his shoulder, "Sleep well my friend."
She then turned, picked up her items and began to walk out of the room.

Major Munroe opened the door and appeared in Halona's face,

"Oi miss, sing the Colonel a lullaby?"

Munroe grinned at his comment glancing over at Lt.Colonel Crossley,

"Will's a drunken fool some times, ere' lemme pass.."

The tall Major walked by and grabbed Crossley throwing him over his shoulder,

"Oi! turn around now!..." he barked...

Munroe carried his friend over to his bed dropping him on the covers, he walked back towards the door and kicked a gun across the room..he didn't say a word but waited for Halona to leave..

Halona smirked, "I did no such thing."
She moved out of the way as she watched amused at the other man's actions.
"I was on my way out to ask where my own quarters are located," she stated as she picked up the gun that the man had kicked.

Halona smirked, "I did no such thing."
She moved out of the way as she watched amused at the other man's actions.
"I was on my way out to ask where my own quarters are located," she stated as she picked up the gun that the man had kicked.

Major Munroe closed the door behind them and lead Halona down a long wood hallway down some stairs to the next floor,

"Right in there...Colonel Crossley insisted you stay in the command building, your bed is made and you have all the nessasary items inside...and i must remind you..do not attempt to try anything while inside, despite your friendship with the commanding officer..some will not hesitate to shoot you"

He gave her a serious look,

"Good night Miss Halona..."

He opened the door for her, candles were light and flickered off the walls....

Two British soldiers strolled up the stairs towards Crossleys level,

"I have buisness i must attened to.."

Major Munroe walked out of sight...

EDIT: Nevermind that OOC...

Mahicans were gearing up for the fight. Almost three hundred warriors were already present in Chief Ahagutama's camp, and atleast as many were concentrating within a day's march radius. Warriors didn't really know why did this all happen, but majority naturally expected a raid against the Long Knives in Red that had recently spred wider and wider in South. Others said that they would go against the Iroquois, while few even suggested that it was the French tribe they were going to attack.
Only Ahagutama and the Council of the Wise knew it for sure, but they did not speak of it yet. They just sat in Ahagutama's tent, smoked pipe and came out only for their natural needs, communicating very little with their men.

Until finally, in the morning of the second day, Chief Ahagutama came out of the tent, and said only two words to the mass of painted, armed warriors in front of him.

"Ayi kau-kun we-ku-wuhm."

To the fort.

Captain O'Reilly said to Dumas, "We should find out more information from those prisoners." He walked out, and up ti Sergeant White. "Sergeant, I trust you remembered our last episode." He grinned, and continued, "Now, me boy, tell me why you fight. I, personally, can not stand you, and you had betwte answer every question I ask you, if you want to survive, ya fecking pissant."

Lt.Dumas walked up to O'Reilly. "Sgt.White doesn't know anything at all. Anyways we don't want to cause a incident here. I don't want to start a war because of some getting mistreat or killed in cold blood."

Reallydrunk']Responding to Sharpe:

Lt.Colonel Crossley continued to stand at attention and responded to Captian Sharpe,

"We need more men Sharpe...we are under streneth but all my men were told we would recieve about 2000 troops here at the fort..they know no different.. therefore they cannot speak on it truthfully.."

He paused...

"The French will not make it in these walls Captian, you are an officer in charge here now therefore i must consult you on decisions i make...understood?"

He continued to speak after a pause...

"General Bair must know of our situation, we will add your galloper gun to the wall of course...it will do good there...the other artillary peices we have will do no good in the field..they will also be added to the forts defences.."

___________________________________
French Camp:

Sgt.White shook his head and replyed,

"I do not know anything Mick, i am only but a company sergent...ask your questions but i do not have the answers you seek...so..do fuck off mate.."

_________________________________
The Fort:

Crossley's face remained serious,

"Halona i already knew you were keeping somthing from me...i know you will bring us no harm, or else i already would have hung or shot for a spy...do not underestimate my abilitys to judge and do not get them confused for my feelings about this situation..."

He glanced over at the drinks on the table...

"I must stop now anyways...i have to be able bodyied in order to lead men in the field..."

The door flung open and Major Munroe stepped halfway in..

"Sir!, The arrangements you have ordered have been completed...everything is in order..."

Lt.Colonel Crossley nodded then waved him out...

"Halona..i consider you a friend, no harm shall come to you no matter the situation...loyalty is a key factor in friendship is it not?"
_____________________________________________
The Fort #2:

Damien's family was allowed to explore the fort and get to know it's surroundings. They were informed outside the walls were dangerous and were out of bounds to any civilian person or persons wishing to go there for any reason what so ever. Major Munroe was informed Damien was considering the militia, Munroe knew mens minds changed rather quickly when themselves and their familys lives were at stake.

A dispatch rider went to Albany with the dispatch as follows...

"The French/Indians are bound to attack the fortress of her Majesty queen Anne, Reinforcements are required. The 1st battalion is garrisoned and ready for any hostille forces to approach, 95th rifles have arrived full streneth..."

OOC: The dispatch is fake, it should mislead any men in the area that get it...plus...if General baird gets it he will know whats up...

Damien and his family respected and remembered the words of the fort's runners about the off-limits areas, etc. Damien's decision to join the militia would be influenced by his family being in danger. Damien did know hand to hand combat, sword combat, and other things, he used to be in the Zeonic military before being a settler.

Damien and his family kept their language and heritage as they lived in the fort. Damien's sons considered the militia as well.

"Don't tell me to fuck off, you damn dog." He pulled his pistol, and whacked him across the face. "You fucking bastard, I told you not to talk to me that way." When he saw the Lieutenant comming, he murmered, "Snitches get stiches."
When the lieutenant spoke to him, he replied, "I do believe there is already a war." He strode away, back to his men. He yelled, "I'm going to be taking a little nap." His men rushed to guard him.
---
In the morning, he called for his men to fall in. They did, on foot. His sergeant reported to him, "All present, Captain." he began to speak, but then footsteps galloping was heard in the woods. Suddenly, 75 men galloped around the corner. The Saint Bridget's Brigade now numbered 110. They came with a gift: a French officer's uniform for O'Reilly, a massive green flag, with a gold harp on it, symbolising Ireland. The fluer-de-lis was swed on the upper left corner, closest to the pole. The original 35 ran to their horses, and they formed a formation. O'Reilly nodded, and smiled. One man rode forward, and said, "Captain, these men are now under your command." He then fell in, proudly. O'Reilly boomed, "Gentlemen! Comrades! Whether Irish, Spanish, or French, you are now my brothers! We are all here for one reason: to fight the British! Many of you have personal vendettas, others have friends who do. I tell you now, we WILL get revenge. Today is the day that we will defeat the British, and give them the defat they've been asking fer! FOR IRELAND!" The men cheered, and formed 3 columns of 25 men each, the other with the rest. O'Reilly raised his sabre, flashing in the sun, and they trotted to the field. They waited for their French counterparts, and would then attack. However, first, five of the men with British uniforms rode ahead. They quickly arrived at the fort, and wet to the gate. One yelled to the guards, "We are messengers from the main army. We have urgent news for the commanders!"

Lt. Dumas looked at O'Reilly. This man was insane. When O'Reilly took away the English's uniform he gave them some extra clothes they had. Sgt.Pierre tried to help Jedd with his head wound.

"The platoon is sorry what O'Reilly has done to do."

In the morning Lt.Dumas got his men ready. They came out and took down the camp. Once done the platoon go into their columns. Everyone was there. The five prisoners were had their hands tied together then tied with another rope to the person in front.

"Let's move men."

Lt.Dumas cried out. The platoon moved and the prisoners moved off with them. Once near the outpost the prisoners were put in the back and the French platoon hide themselves so the British couldn't see them. Lt.Dumas got toward the front and watched the outpost.

Reallydrunk']Responding to Sharpe:

Lt.Colonel Crossley continued to stand at attention and responded to Captian Sharpe,

"We need more men Sharpe...we are under streneth but all my men were told we would recieve about 2000 troops here at the fort..they know no different.. therefore they cannot speak on it truthfully.."

He paused...

"The French will not make it in these walls Captian, you are an officer in charge here now therefore i must consult you on decisions i make...understood?"

He continued to speak after a pause...

"General Bair must know of our situation, we will add your galloper gun to the wall of course...it will do good there...the other artillary peices we have will do no good in the field..they will also be added to the forts defences.."



A dispatch rider went to Albany with the dispatch as follows...

"The French/Indians are bound to attack the fortress of her Majesty queen Anne, Reinforcements are required. The 1st battalion is garrisoned and ready for any hostille forces to approach, 95th rifles have arrived full streneth..."

OOC: The dispatch is fake, it should mislead any men in the area that get it...plus...if General baird gets it he will know whats up...
OOC: Okay, no one has posted intercepting them, so I assume they're getting through...

IC: "I understand, sir," Sharpe replied. "After looking over our defenses, it seems that this fort will be easily held against irregular troops or non-artillery supported troops. If the Frogs do somehow lug cannons all the way from the north, or even from Europe past the Navy's blockade, we should have ample warning from the Iroquois scouts to be able to ask for reinforcements. There is also the matter of a local Indian tribe, sir. I spoke with their leader, and he said he wished to meet with us. I expect he will be coming for a meeting."

Turning back to Halona, he responded, "I understand, ma'am. If you would permit me, I would like to speak with you further at a later point, but at the moment, unfortunately, I have my men's comfort to attend to, as soon as Col. Crossley is finished."



In Albany, as soon as the message arrived, Baird pondered. The French were expected to strike at the northern outpost eventually, but all the same he could scarcely afford to send hundreds of men on a wild goose chase. He resolved to send only 20 additional Iroquois to act as scouts for the time being, while mobilising significant amounts of regulars and colonial militia should the need arise for reinforcement.

OOC: Also, Cherry Ridge, just so you know the English currently have a blockade of the St Lawrence and the other French possessions in the New World... it is highly unlikely you could get Irish reinforcements through it.

OOC: Reallydrunk, when here please check the OOC thread.

ooc: They are comming in through Spanish lands.
ic:
Captain O'Reilly ordered his men back into the woods, and they would wait there until the other five men had done their job- if they got back.

*Halona's reply to Sharp*
"You may speak with me if you would like," Halona began, "I understand how things work, and your men are important for this fort."

*Halona's reply to Munroe*
"I thank you for the room," Halona said as she walked in and in surveying the room nodded aprovingly.
When the man had made his comments about shooting her she gave a simple reply, "I understand your mistrust of me, however my mistrust of you runs deep. I will not try anything, I've spoken about that with Mr. Crossley."
"This is fine," she stated, "Thank you."
After he had shut the door Halona went under the covers of the bed that they had made up for her. Sighing as she leaned back, she was asleep with in moments.

OOC: How are your men getting through from Spanish territory in Mexico to French settlements on the St Lawrence? And with horses, no less.

Also, it's not as if the Spanish are neutral- they're fighting on the side of the French, and British ships are marauding against Spanish shipping and blockading Spanish colonial shores just as vehemently as those of the French.

Also, Tarayshia, I'm going to finish this up since your character is technically supposed to be somewhere else right now...
IC: "Thank you ma'am," Sharpe said, then he excused himself to attend to his men.

It was the charping of the birds that awakened Halona the next morning. For a moment, the native woman didn't know where she was until the memories came back from yesterday. A lot had happened in just one day of her life. The woman pulled up the covers on her, wanting to have a few minutes alone to herself before having to face everyone. She knew it was early, so she waited for iether someone to wake her or until she would get sick of laying, whatever came first.

(OOC: bump)

The riders were spotted approaching the fort,

"Riders! Dragoons!" shouted a sentry..

There were four British soliders standing outside the gates leaning on their rifles, they eyed the dragoons and somthing about them didn't seem right,

"Whats the word from Albany Leiutennet?...."

The others seemed egar to hear of the situation...

_____________________________________

Crossley opened his eyes to see the sun shining through his windows, some one had came in and let the breeze in..

"Bloody hell..." he murmered while sitting up....

He was still dressed in his trousers, vest and shirt. He strolled over to the window where his wash basin was and looked out to see dragoons at the gates...they didn't have their platoon pendant! there was no unit flag! they were phony...he couldn't yell and risk the lives of those soldiers...he thought carefully...
__________________________________

Sgt.White protested when his uniform was taken, he knew how they would try and get in the fort crafty bastards. He sat on the ground in the french camp, his face hurt but he didn't want to show it...

"No need, he is not the only one who mistreats prisoners....it happens.."

________________________________
OOC: What direction do the enemy troops approach?

Sgt Pierre bound and gagged the five british dragoons. He looked at Sgt. White and was about to gag him. "Sorry this is for your own good Sgt."

Lt.Dumas watched the outpost. Soon this would go down. He looked toward O'Reilly.

OOC: What direction are the enemy comming from?

OOC: I guess the south.

In her room, Halona heard the yelling of men however could not make out what words were being said. Rolling onto her side, she sighed as her mass of dark hair covered her face.

Pierre gagged Sgt White and slowly made his way to the north side of the outpost. In the forest he saw the British making there way back and forth. Once the attack went underway Pierre was getting inside. He looked out and saw the British. He aimmed his rifle at him and got a beat. Once the rifles went off he could try to brind down that Englishman.

The men attempting to enter the fort said, "I apologise sir, but we can only speak to the commanding officer."

Pierre gagged Sgt White and slowly made his way to the north side of the outpost. In the forest he saw the British making there way back and forth. Once the attack went underway Pierre was getting inside. He looked out and saw the British. He aimmed his rifle at him and got a beat. Once the rifles went off he could try to brind down that Englishman.
OOC: "Got a beat"? Does this mean you're shooting or not?

Also, rifles are very rare right now- the French military does not use them at all.

OOC: Sorry I meant musket. A beat is when you get dead right onto a target and keep up with them.

(OOC: bump)

Can Damien and his family talk to Halona? She can talk to Damien or Zara right now, the others I can see about.

(OOC: Well, Halona is still in her bedroom, I guess I could have her get up and we'll see what happens.)

IC:
Tired of laying around, Halona rose up from the bed and went through her bag, seeing the dress that a white woman had given her because she had felt bad for her. Being a native woman, Halona didn't have the propper under things to go under the dress such as a shimese, corset or petticoats, but she made do as she slipped the dress over her head, tying it in the back as tight as she could to make it look like she was dressed propperly. The dress reached to the floor, it was a simple brown silk and Halona hadn't questioned where it had come from although she had never felt such a material in her life. With her comb she brushed out her long raven like hair before placing on her shoes and exiting the room.

(OOC: Women back then dressed in many layers of clothing. First went the shimese which was a slip like thing that went over the naked body, followed by a corset which was a garment that tied in the back to make a woman look more thin;it was very tight to wear, then went the petticoats which were like skirts that went under the dress, then the dress itself. Women also wore bonnets to cover there head, or it was some type of head covering..there's your history lesson for the day..lol)

Zara walked through the fort until she bumped into Halona. She fell to the ground, she did not see Halona was there. Zara looked up and saw Halona, she looked different from the British people. ''I'm sorry for bumping into you.'' Zara tried to say to Halona. Zara looked at Halona, wondering what Halona would say and do.

Damien and his family were in their quarters at the time. Zara wore Zeonic clothing, different from the British or Native Americans, as did her family.

Damien and his sons practiced their sword-wielding and other things, the Zeonic people had arts like this.

OOC-Is this post ok with you, Tarayshia?

(OOC: Yes, it's fine)

IC:
Halona silently reached down to help the young girl up, the native woman eying her clothing as she nodded, "I'm fine, are you alright?"

(OOC: Yes, it's fine)

IC:
Halona silently reached down to help the young girl up, the native woman eying her clothing as she nodded, "I'm fine, are you alright?"

''Yes, I'm alright.'' Zara said as she got up. ''Thank you for helping me.'' Zara said, fixing her clothing. ''Do you live in this fort too? I do with my family.'' Zara asked Halona. Zara looked at the native woman, thinking about things.

Halona replied, "I'm here for the time being. My name is Halona."

Halona replied, "I'm here for the time being. My name is Halona."

''My name is Zara.'' Zara said to Halona. ''Can you show me around, Halona?'' Zara asked nicely.

"I don't know my way around," Halona said as she leaned against a wall, "I'm sorry."

OOC: Sorry I meant musket. A beat is when you get dead right onto a target and keep up with them.
OOC: Okay that's fine.

IC: Lieutenant Knowles was frustrated. At first this skirmish line was meant as a rearguard, but now the foliage was obstructing his mens' sight so they did not have a good view in front of them.

"What do you htink, Pat?" he asked Sergeant Harper. The huge Irishman replied, "I don't know, sir... this doesn't seem like a good position for our men." Suddenly he looked up. Patrick had a love for birds, and it served to entertain him on the boring months of patrol, but now it had a more important purpose. Harper saw a jackdaw flitting out of the trees beyond the Riflemen, cawing as it circled in the air. "Back to the fort! Double time!" he shouted at the riflemen. They reacted immediately. Riflemen fought in pairs, each man covering his partner's loading. Now, it served to guard their retreat. One man scrambled back while the other fired at any musket flashes, then they repeated it, the men loading as they ran.

ooc: I suppose your right. Just assume those men never came.

ic:
The 30 men began to charge when they saw the retreating riflemen. The formed a wedge- like formation, and when they "hit" the riflemen, spread out. They began firing at them, and slashing at them. One mans horse reared up, and hit a British soldier in the head. They men screamed like Banshees throughout the attack.

When the shooting started the artillary crews rushed to their guns and prepared to fire, the attack was comming from the south where four garrison guns over looked the clearing. Crossley rushed to get his proper uniform on so that he could go out and see what they were up against, Major Munroe gathered redcoats for the walls.

The South wall fired it's first blast into the tree line..

*BOOM*

Smoke filled the air, the next three roared to life...

Lt.Dumas gave the order in French. "Fire men!" The artillery was missing them and the militia and regulars fired their muskets then changed their position. They were going to stick to this stragety. Lt. Dumas sat behind a log and aimmed for a man commanding the artillery. Then fired his musket. Most of the other men were firing at the men firing the artillery.

Sgt. Pierre fired his musket at the private once the gunshots started to happen.

Lt.Dumas gave the order in French. "Fire men!" The artillery was missing them and the militia and regulars fired their muskets then changed their position. They were going to stick to this stragety. Lt. Dumas sat behind a log and aimmed for a man commanding the artillery. Then fired his musket. Most of the other men were firing at the men firing the artillery.

Sgt. Pierre fired his musket at the private once the gunshots started to happen.


An officer in command of one of the cannons hit the ground, the musket shot had went right in his head. Two more cannons on the end of the left and right bastions opened fire, the cannon balls screamed into the tree line. Major Munroe dispatched 30 redcoats to the ramparts who fired at will, the battle had just began.

Lt.Colonel Crossley came out of the command building and strolled into the parade square where he was met by some of his officers,

"We are short artillary crew so we must keep some in reserve to travel from gun to gun..i want them all ready to fire when needed"

The officers nodded and rushed to carry out their orders,

"Lt! find me Captian Sharpe..."

The Militia and the indians was called up, they would take up position on the walls around the fort.

"Aim for the officers commanding the cannons!!" Lt. Dumas yelled to his men. A volley went out toward the fort. Lt.Dumas saw the new British coming toward the rampart. He would let O'Reilly take care of that. He aimmed and saw a officer coming up the rampart. Aimming then firing Dumas hoped that he hit the target.

Sgt Pierre aimmed at another private and fired his musket then reloaded.

"Aim for the officers commanding the cannons!!" Lt. Dumas yelled to his men. A volley went out toward the fort. Lt.Dumas saw the new British coming toward the rampart. He would let O'Reilly take care of that. He aimmed and saw a officer coming up the rampart. Aimming then firing Dumas hoped that he hit the target.

Sgt Pierre aimmed at another private and fired his musket then reloaded.

The musket ball went over the officers head and he ducked,

"Put it on them lads!" the scottish officer yelled...

The cannon balls exploded in the tree line and across the open field, two men got shot and fell to the ground. The soldiers on the ramparts took aim and fired their muskets in the directions of the smoke, some could see their targets hoping they would reduce the enemy numbers....

Two more cannons roared to life, the two in on each bastion on the left and right sides...

A British officer observing the artillary fire spoke to a sergent,

"They are taking quite the barrage! we'll have them turning tail and running in no time aha"

A men fell down to musket fire. Two exploded when a cannon ball exploded.

Two regular men were next to Dumas.

"On three we are all going to aim for scottish officer...one...two...three."

Lt.Dumas and the two men fired their shots and ducked down. The other men were still firing but had the cover of the forest.

Sgt.Pierre got up and ran to the fort. Once getting to the wall he reloaded his musket. Most of the action was going along the southside. He was glad he was on the North.

A men fell down to musket fire. Two exploded when a cannon ball exploded.

Two regular men were next to Dumas.

"On three we are all going to aim for scottish officer...one...two...three."

Lt.Dumas and the two men fired their shots and ducked down. The other men were still firing but had the cover of the forest.

Sgt.Pierre got up and ran to the fort. Once getting to the wall he reloaded his musket. Most of the action was going along the southside. He was glad he was on the North.

The Scottish officer was hit with two of the musket balls, he crumpled to the ground dead. The cannon fire continued to blast away at the forest shattering trees, afew french men were seen getting hit by the explosions. The troops along the walls continued to fire at will, the indians and the militia fired aswell. The battle was heating up and would surely get worse, the enemy was taking losses as were the British, Major Munroe ordered that a mortor be fired from within the parade square close at the base of the South wall raining death upon the enemy troops.

Indians and Militia moved over the walls scanning for any more enemys that might be attacking from another position. Lt.Colonel Crossley watched the cannons being fired from the parade square near his command building at the end of the complex, he awaited Captian Sharpe...

Lt.Dumas ordered a retreat and the men slipped away. Before running away Lt.Dumas fired his musket at another artillery commander then pulled out his pistol and shot again. While running back to the camp he had four men were killed and another three were wounded. Making it back to the camp Lt. Dumas made sure the wounded got treated. At camp they started to build a defensive barrier around the fort just incase, Going up to Sgt. White Lt.Dumas asked. "Can I ask you what was the name of the Scottish officer at the fort?"

Sgt.Pierre heard the order for retreat he still stuck to the wall of the fort. Once night drew he would enter the fort.

Lt.Dumas ordered a retreat and the men slipped away. Before running away Lt.Dumas fired his musket at another artillery commander then pulled out his pistol and shot again. While running back to the camp he had four men were killed and another three were wounded. Making it back to the camp Lt. Dumas made sure the wounded got treated. At camp they started to build a defensive barrier around the fort just incase, Going up to Sgt. White Lt.Dumas asked. "Can I ask you what was the name of the Scottish officer at the fort?"

Sgt.Pierre heard the order for retreat he still stuck to the wall of the fort. Once night drew he would enter the fort.

The Mortor fired a single shot and a large cloud of smoke followed by sparks flew from the mouth of it, the french were retreating and the British cheered loudly continuing to fire. A British artillary officer was wounded by a musket shot and was assisted by the gun crew, Lt.Colonel Crossley smiled and entered the command building followed by Major Munroe.

A squad of regulars were sent outside the walls to cheak for enemy that had not been able to retreat due to the heavy fire. Indian allies ran outside to collect things from the fallen frenchmen, they would get their booty from the dead.

Sgt.White replyed to Lt.Dumas,

"You have failed Lt, the fort is too heavily guarded..we have over 2000 men in the garrison"

He was lying but there was no way Lt.Dumas could know that,

"There are two Scottish officers in the fort Lt, Major Charles Munroe and Captian George Mcdonald...Munroe is in charge of the redcoat infantry..Mcdonald artillary.."

He paused..

"Why do you ask.."

The squad of redcoats left the fort and started to patrol the surrounding area, indian scouts moved through the ditch cheaking the base of the fort for any enemy that may have taken refuge there.

Lt.Dumas looked at Sgt.White. So that's who brought those damn infantry to the wall. "Oh because two of my men and I killed a scottish officer on the wall. I think it was this McDonald fellow."
Then looked down upon Jedd. "Once we get out of here you will never seen another Englishman or England again. Once this is over with you will travel back to the North at a prison."

A young regular private was wounded in the leg. His name was Charles Delacroix. Charles saw the French run away. He got his musket and broke it against a rock. The pain was immense. Looking around he saw the Indian coming. He crawled away, but the Indians found him in French he yelled. "I surrender!"

Once hearing the British coming out of the fort Pierre ran back into the forest. He had done good. Two British privates were killed by him. Running into the forest he hoped that the British weren't close behind.

Lt.Dumas looked at Sgt.White. So that's who brought those damn infantry to the wall. "Oh because two of my men and I killed a scottish officer on the wall. I think it was this McDonald fellow."
Then looked down upon Jedd. "Once we get out of here you will never seen another Englishman or England again. Once this is over with you will travel back to the North at a prison."

A young regular private was wounded in the leg. His name was Charles Delacroix. Charles saw the French run away. He got his musket and broke it against a rock. The pain was immense. Looking around he saw the Indian coming. He crawled away, but the Indians found him in French he yelled. "I surrender!"

Once hearing the British coming out of the fort Pierre ran back into the forest. He had done good. Two British privates were killed by him. Running into the forest he hoped that the British weren't close behind.

Sgt.White shook his head replying,

"I will go home some day Lt, they will come....When France surrenders to England i will be released.."

He sat back and closed his eyes...

The British soldiers left the fort patroling the area but heard the indians call out they had found some one, they responded and quickly moved towards the woods where the Mohawks had a man surrounded...

The lead Indian understood french and signaled his men to stand down...

"Do not move"...

The British soldiers came down and moved towards him, the sergent signaled the indians to retrive him. Two of the warriors lifted him up while the others routed through the dead frenchmen's bodys gathering their loot, they took their rifles, money, wedding rings, pocket watches and anything else of value...one indian started popping the buttons off their uniform coats.

"Take him to the fort.."

Near the north Bastion the indians who were patroling the ditch seen a man running towards the woods full speed,

"Aaaaahhh! woot woot!" One yelled and they gave persuit...

The man ran quickly but the indians were just as fast if not faster, they didn't want to kill him only capture him then sell him to the British. The indians closed the distance quickly and one lunged at the man...

The other six indians followed close behind waving their tomohawks and rifles, British soldiers on the ramparts watched their allies chase down the man,

"Aye, that lads got it commin'"

Another soldier looked at the one who spoke and replyed,

"The natives know, the French are worth more alive then dead..they will bring him back and he'll be sold.."

"Aye.."

Pierre saw and found that they had also captured Charles. "Tell the natives to leave my men's bodies alone."


Charles on the ground moaned. He looked up toward the sky. Once back in the fort Pierre looked at Charles. "Don't tell these lobsterbacks anything."

As the native leaned up against the wall of the fort, she could hear shots and the firing of other weapons going off. She knew a battle was starting, however she knew not how to work the huge guns that were around. She knew however, that the british and the french were at it.
"Come," Halona said as she took Zara's hand and pulled her inside the room to which she had slept in, "We stay here until someone comes, we would be in the way of the fighters if we try and help. I only have a pistol and that will not do us any good unless an enimy comes close to us."
Halona waited, hearing the firing of guns and canyons, as well as the yells of men; some in English some in french. Halona made sure her gun was loaded, she wondering what was going on outside. For a brief moment, her thoughts turned towards William Crossley however she pushed them out of her mind as she listened to the gun fire gradually decrease and then finally stop.
"I say we wait here," Halona said as she ran her hands through out her hair, "Like I said before we'll only be in the way; I know some medical things however we'll see what happens."

Pierre saw and found that they had also captured Charles. "Tell the natives to leave my men's bodies alone."


Charles on the ground moaned. He looked up toward the sky. Once back in the fort Pierre looked at Charles. "Don't tell these lobsterbacks anything."

The British Sergent responded to Pierre,

"They do that, it is a way of payment to them...it would only start trouble if we issued such and order, they use everything.."

They marched back to the fort and the prisoners were brought in the parade square where Lt.Colonel Crossley exited the command building and approached, the British soldiers presented arms when they seen him comming,

"Name, rank, and regiment to which you have previously served..." He said..

Major Munroe came up behind him followed by two Lt's and a captian...

Major Munroe heard the comment about lobster backs and gave Pierre a boot in the chest...

"Do you not stand up when an officer approaches lad? I gonna ave to teach ya's some respect.."

Crossley signaled Munroe to stand down...

"Now..talk.."

The indians who captured Pierre had taken all of his stuff, the lead one kept the long rifle the frenchman had when they captured him. They had sold both prisoners to the British and they were content with the booty they had collected, the all sat with other indians looking over the French equipment they had captured...

The fighting was over for now, but surely the French would return or a counter attack would be planned.

Crossleys attention drifted to Halona who came out of hiding, he then focused to his buisness...

After a few moments of not hearing anything Halona turned to the girl that was with her, "I'm going out there, I know that the fighting has stopped for now."
She stood up, taking her pistol with her and watching as Zara left her room before shutting the door and walking outside the fort. She wanted to get fresh air and to see what was going on.
"Damn french," she whispered as she saw William talking to two of such men. Halona feared these men a bit, because since they were french they may have ties to her father in the Huron tribe thus give away where she was located. She watched the other Indians, her dark eyes going over them and what they were doing before they returned to looking straight ahead.

The leading indian warrior looked at Halona and watched her stroll into the parade grounds, he looked at his commrades..

"She takes the way of our white fathers, dresses in their clothes and speaks their language.."

The other indians glared at her,

"She is not Mohawk..." one observed..

The indians watched her,

"Is she prisoner? she walks around like she is free woman.."

The lead indians given name was Kipu, he was very ferice looking with the upper part of his body painted black and his head was shaved leaving a long pony tail in the back. The sides of his head were painted like lightening bolts in red and black war paint, his black eyes continued to follow the girl....

Reallydrunk']The British Sergent responded to Pierre,

"They do that, it is a way of payment to them...it would only start trouble if we issued such and order, they use everything.."

They marched back to the fort and the prisoners were brought in the parade square where Lt.Colonel Crossley exited the command building and approached, the British soldiers presented arms when they seen him comming,

"Name, rank, and regiment to which you have previously served..." He said..

Major Munroe came up behind him followed by two Lt's and a captian...

Major Munroe heard the comment about lobster backs and gave Pierre a boot in the chest...

"Do you not stand up when an officer approaches lad? I gonna ave to teach ya's some respect.."

Crossley signaled Munroe to stand down...

"Now..talk.."

The indians who captured Pierre had taken all of his stuff, the lead one kept the long rifle the frenchman had when they captured him. They had sold both prisoners to the British and they were content with the booty they had collected, the all sat with other indians looking over the French equipment they had captured...

The fighting was over for now, but surely the French would return or a counter attack would be planned.

Crossleys attention drifted to Halona who came out of hiding, he then focused to his buisness...

"Pierre Capet. Sgt. 16e Bataillon de Chasseurs." Pierre looked over toward Charles was in too much pain. He looked toward this British Lt. Col. "His name is Charles Delacroix. Private. 16e Bataillon de Chasseurs. The both of us are to be given full quarter that means that Major cannot harm us. Also I think Mr. Delacroix is in need of medical attetion."

Halona gazed around at what was going on, not hearing the Indians as they whispered about her until she caught one glaring at her. She raised her arm with the pistol, smirking at the indian man before she turned and walked away. She did not know what was said, but judgeing from the looks that the indian had given her she knew it most likely wasn't good, or it held her in suspesion.

"Pierre Capet. Sgt. 16e Bataillon de Chasseurs." Pierre looked over toward Charles was in too much pain. He looked toward this British Lt. Col. "His name is Charles Delacroix. Private. 16e Bataillon de Chasseurs. The both of us are to be given full quarter that means that Major cannot harm us. Also I think Mr. Delacroix is in need of medical attetion."


Lt.Colonel Crossley nodded and continued to stand at attention, he responded to the French sergent,

"You shall recieve full quarter and will be treated accordingly, your man will also get the required medical attention immeaditly..my surgeons will tend to him now.."

With that, two redcoats picked up the wounded man and carried him off towards the hospital,

"What are your numbers in these parts sergent? Artillary? Militia? Native allies...?"

"Also who is your commanding officer?"

Major Munroe hated the French and stood there glaring at the captured soldier....

Halona gazed around at what was going on, not hearing the Indians as they whispered about her until she caught one glaring at her. She raised her arm with the pistol, smirking at the indian man before she turned and walked away. She did not know what was said, but judgeing from the looks that the indian had given her she knew it most likely wasn't good, or it held her in suspesion.

Kipu continued to stare stone faced as the girl continued to walk by, he looked at his other warriors,

"She is Huron...our enemy..we must consult with our white fathers on this situation...the one they call Crossley....cheif of the redcoats"

He looked back towards her...

"If she is not prisoner of the whites and is free, Kipu will put her under the knife..."

Reallydrunk']Lt.Colonel Crossley nodded and continued to stand at attention, he responded to the French sergent,

"You shall recieve full quarter and will be treated accordingly, your man will also get the required medical attention immeaditly..my surgeons will tend to him now.."

With that, two redcoats picked up the wounded man and carried him off towards the hospital,

"What are your numbers in these parts sergent? Artillary? Militia? Native allies...?"

"Also who is your commanding officer?"

Major Munroe hated the French and stood there glaring at the captured soldier....

"A regiment of 200 regular. 10 piece of artillary. 600 militia and abou 150natives....What was you name?" Pierre could tell that the fort was under the needed manpower. "Lt.Dumas." Pierre looked toward this Major. "Hey was that captain your friend?" He pointed toward Captain McDonald.

(OOC: Wait a second, how do they know she's Huron?)

IC:
Halona continued her walk away from the other native men, she looking back over her shoulder at the stone faced warrior; stopping, Halona said, "You warriors all are the same."
She knew they couldn't hear her, from there point of view it looked as she had mouthed something to them before Halona turned around and continued her walk.

Michael climbed up the rocky hill and looked over the forest... I know that there was a fort to be built here. The Mohicans said so also. He was still an hour away. Suddenly, he saw movement. Dios mio, Michael said. He spoke many languages and enjoyed cursing in them to escape being detected. The French were warriors, but unkind to him. The Spanish had been rude, but better than the French. Michael liked the Dutch the best. They were friendly, amicable people, people who were like him, traders and explorers. Michael saw the French army. Michael quickly raced down the hill, packing his things and calling to his dog. They quickly started moving north. There was a British fort there. This was the first time in several years he was going to be with british soldiers. Maybe they will buy some of my good. Mike headed off to the protection of the fort

(OOC: bump)

"A regiment of 200 regular. 10 piece of artillary. 600 militia and abou 150natives....What was you name?" Pierre could tell that the fort was under the needed manpower. "Lt.Dumas." Pierre looked toward this Major. "Hey was that captain your friend?" He pointed toward Captain McDonald.

Major Munroe's facial expression changed from mad to furious, he pulled his sabre out and moved towards the Frenchman,

"Major!" Crossley shouted...

Munroe looked towards Crossley trembeling,

"Colonel with all due respect.."

Lt.Colonel Crossley cut him off,

"Major! STAND DOWN!"

Major Munroe stepped back still gripping his sabre, he glared at Pierre..

"You and i will lock horns some day boy, and no one will be able to save you..for his death many more of you frog bastards will die"

Crossley said firmly,

"Major Munroe! Conduct youself as an officer in her majestys army immeaditly! ignore him!"

Crossley looked at Pierre,

"There will be no more of that Sergent, do you hear me? RESPECT! shall be shown at all times...Major Munroe is a senior officer, is that understood?"

Once he had finished he got back on topic,

"Are you being serious with me Sergent? are those the correct numbers?"
______________________________________
OOC: Indian's know, it's strange but they could easliy tell....maybe not exactly which tribe maybe that was slightly jumping the gun, they just know she's not Mohawk....Iriquois..

Kipu watched her mouth the words, his attention then turned towards the British quarreling with the captured Frenchman,

"They disrespect our cheif white fathers..come.."

Kipu and two more of his finest warriors walked towards the British and the Frenchman....they were interested in what was going on even though they had already sold them and it was no longer any of their buisness.

A man was seen comming from the treeline,

"Incomming!!" Yelled a man on the bastion....

"Oh your the Colonel I have heard about. Your Crossley right? I shall show respect to your troops." Pierre saw Major glaring at him. It didn't matter to him. "Yes Colonel Crossley."

Pierre looked over and saw that Charles was screaming. That poor kid didn't deserve that. Charles yelled in pain. "So what are you going to do with me now?"

(OOC: Ok, I understand now)

IC:
Halona stood, not far off from where the french was speaking to the british. She saw the confrintation happen, however she did not get mixed up in the matter and she continued to stand and observe. She took a few steps forward when she saw the other native warriors come over and she caught the eyes of who she knew was the leader just from how he stood; she had seen many warriors, from her tribe and others and could always tell. She would not show that she was a submissive woman, when she met the native's eyes she held the gaze and did not lower her head nor her posture as she stood, head high and face in stone much like his own.

(OOC: bump)

The five men who were attempting to break into the fort were all hit with french volleys. They fell to the ground, all but two dead. The two bledto death a while later. Of the 30 charging men, 5 were killed in the crossfire, 15 were killed by artillery, and 5 were killed by by British volleys. The five remaining men, including O'Reilly, surrendered. He cursed, "Fucknig Frenchmen fire too early."

ooc: I'll RP them as prisoners, but I'm also going to pick others to RP. Probably either French or Spanish. See OOC.

Colonel Charles Orlean rode softly through the woods, wearing his full French uniform. He men, militia, silently followed, in two rows. They had heard gunshots, and artillery, then sited a British fort. The could not arrive in time, but could smell the battle. The 60 men turned around, and decided they would go the long way to the French camp. Colonel Orlean had been a Captain of regulrs, resigned, and been recommissioend a colonel, as lnog as he would command militia. Technically, he was still a regular.
---
When they arrived at the camp, they slowly filed in. Colonel Orlean rode up to someone who appeared to be an NCO, "I am Colonel Charles Orlean. I request to speak with Lieutenant Colonel Dumas. I believe he is the commanding officer, correct?"

The nco ran off and Lt.Dumas came back. "Hello and who might you be?"

Colonel Orlean jumped off of his horse, and said, "Lieutenant Colonel Dumas, I am Colonel Charles Orlean. You may have heard of me, I was the one who became a Captain of regulars, and resigned, then came back as a Colonel to command militia. Technically, I am still a regular, those under my command are not though. I am sorry I missed the battle. Mind giving me a brief rundown of your strategy?" He smiled, and then added, "I will treat you as equal, as long as you give my men respect, and won't interfere with your men unless urgency on the battle field requires, or if it involves my men." He then waited for him to answer his question.

"Oh I heard about you Col.Orlean. Most of the time hiding in the forest and preying on the British. We attacked a British outpost just awhile back. I lost four men and another three wounded. At the outpost a certain Captain O'Reilly was there I don't know what happen to him. Also the outpost had many regular troops and some natives and militia. In the outpost there is a couple mortars and cannons. Also I agree to the terms. Can you order your men to help with the defenses?" Lt.Dumas stated. It was good another French officer was here. Also the fool O'Reilly was gone.

"Oh your the Colonel I have heard about. Your Crossley right? I shall show respect to your troops." Pierre saw Major glaring at him. It didn't matter to him. "Yes Colonel Crossley."

Pierre looked over and saw that Charles was screaming. That poor kid didn't deserve that. Charles yelled in pain. "So what are you going to do with me now?"


Lt.Colonel Crossley nodded,

"Ahh, so i have a reputation in these parts already?"

The Colonel let a slight grin cross his face, Major Munroe got annoyed and placed his sword back in it's sheath standing there in silence,

"I thank you sir for your co-operation, you shall be treated accordingly and will be sent to Fort Edward in time with your companion"

Crossley took a step back and turned to go back towards the HQ building,

"I want a count and that prisoner is to be taken to the stockade...the other one requires medical attention so he stays in the infirmey..those are your orders Major.."

Munroe consulted with the two Lt's, and the Captian then the prisoner was taken away. The 5 Irish prisoners were brought in the fort and were taken to the stockade immeaditly, Crossley would meet with them shortly after he attended to other buisness that had to be taken care of.

Kipu and the other natives exited the fort in order to collect booty from the dead Irishmen.

Lt.Colonel Crossley knew the French would return and started making arrangements for an attack, he did not have the men to lead an offencive untill General Baird send relief.

The following dispatch was sent out...

General Baird
I know you do not see my need for reinforcements but i must ask you once again, a single regiment seems to be in order. I have enough strengeth to hold the fort but must be able to arrange counter attacks against our French and Indian enemys. Also i require artillary crews, the area around the fort is getting reinforced by the French as so reported by our Native scouts.
Regards
L.t.Col.William Crossley
In Her Majestys Service

OOC: I didn't include im under strength just in case this was intercepted by the enemy.

Sgt.Pierre was lead to the stockade. Looked around and waited. He wondered if he would ever see Canada again.

Once the surgery was done Charles looked at the doctor. Sweat was coming down from his forehead. He still had pain in his body. Moaning a little then he started to babble.

"Can I please see the native woman?"

"Certainly I will get my men to help with the defences." He turned around, and shouted at the two Captains, "Captains, make sure that our men help with the defences." They replied with, "Yes, Colonel." Colonel Orlean was obviously respected, and lvoed among his men.
The Colonel turned back to Dumas, "Excuse me, Sir," He used sir for everyone he respected, "Do the British know about this place, and are any of our native allies in the area?"

"The British have no idea where the camp is located plus we are far enough away that the British will not wander here. Also about the native. We haven't found any just that drunk irish fellow, but he was of no use." Lt.Dumas looked at Col. Orlean. "Once your men are done they can set up camp here."

Sgt.Pierre was lead to the stockade. Looked around and waited. He wondered if he would ever see Canada again.

Once the surgery was done Charles looked at the doctor. Sweat was coming down from his forehead. He still had pain in his body. Moaning a little then he started to babble.

"Can I please see the native woman?"

The doctor replyed to the strange question,

"Im sure it can be arranged mate, it's not out of the question..i will get some one to fetch er'"

The doctor gave him some alcohol to ease the pain slightly....

As the native leaned up against the wall of the fort, she could hear shots and the firing of other weapons going off. She knew a battle was starting, however she knew not how to work the huge guns that were around. She knew however, that the british and the french were at it.
"Come," Halona said as she took Zara's hand and pulled her inside the room to which she had slept in, "We stay here until someone comes, we would be in the way of the fighters if we try and help. I only have a pistol and that will not do us any good unless an enimy comes close to us."
Halona waited, hearing the firing of guns and canyons, as well as the yells of men; some in English some in french. Halona made sure her gun was loaded, she wondering what was going on outside. For a brief moment, her thoughts turned towards William Crossley however she pushed them out of her mind as she listened to the gun fire gradually decrease and then finally stop.
"I say we wait here," Halona said as she ran her hands through out her hair, "Like I said before we'll only be in the way; I know some medical things however we'll see what happens."

OOC-Sorry for my lateness, system problems.

Zara looked at Halona and said ''I can wait here. I don't want to get in the way of any of the soldiers.'' Zara listened to the shooting of guns and was a little worried but did not panic or anything. She listened to what Halona said and stayed calm, hoping to know what would happen next.

After a few moments of not hearing anything Halona turned to the girl that was with her, "I'm going out there, I know that the fighting has stopped for now."
She stood up, taking her pistol with her and watching as Zara left her room before shutting the door and walking outside the fort. She wanted to get fresh air and to see what was going on.
"Damn french," she whispered as she saw William talking to two of such men. Halona feared these men a bit, because since they were french they may have ties to her father in the Huron tribe thus give away where she was located. She watched the other Indians, her dark eyes going over them and what they were doing before they returned to looking straight ahead.

OOC-Just to double check, is my character with Halona at this point? I don't want to get mixed up or anything.

"Thank You." Colonel Orlean sighed and said, "Do you think we are strong enough tof ace the British in an open field battle, or shall we continue to fight this way, like the natives. If we do the latter, when shall we attack next?"

As the Irishmen were led to the stockades, O'Reilly turned, and looked at Pierre. "Ah! Wouldn't it be the good sergeant!"

Charles drank the alcohol slowly. He was starting to see stuff. Closing his eyes his vision came back to normal. His hand moved slowly and wiped the sweat off his forehead.

"Thank you doctor."

Lt.Dumas was starting to like this Col.Orleans. "Fighting the British like they do is sucidicial. Also the same with attacking them right now. There numbers are atleast 200. Plus they have cannons, but they cannnot man them all. I suggest we send out a messagner to get more troops while we train to make a somewhat of a fort here."

Pierre ignored O'Reilly.

"We should find out native friends to help us with their tactics."
--
O'Reilly spat in Pierre's direction, "Comrades in arms until we are captured. Coward."

Pierre called out toward the British. "I have some information I want to give you."

Lt.Dumas faced him. "I have no idea where this natives are even located."

"Ah. Well then, let's get these defences up before the British do find out."
--
O'Reilly growled at Pierre, "Fucking traitor."

"This will be a nice start of a fort. Also soon after building this wall I want a tower to go up." Lt.Dumas looked out toward the men.

Colonel Orlean looked, and nodded, "That woulkd be excellent. You may also want to consider another, smaller wall around that, as a place for a last stand if need be, or," he grinned, "Commander's quarters inside of there as well."

"I guess we can make it like that. A fall back point. Here are some rough plans then." Lt.Dumas quickly drew up wha the outpost would look like. He gave it to Orlean. Then patted Orlean on the back.

OOC: This is what the final design of the fort will look like http://www.barbsbunker.com/Ffortification1.JPG

(OOC: No, Zara isn't with Halona, Halona left her inside the fort is where she saw her last.)

IC:
Halona just stood around, aimlessly walking around and gazing at all that was happening. She noticed the natives going through the dead bodies of the enimy, however knew it would be foolish to take something from them so her dark brown eyes left that scene and she turned to walk away.

The British heard the call and a quartermaster appeared on the other side of the bars,

"Alright Frenchman, I'll have some men come get you and you can tell that to the officers.."

He sent a guard to deliver the message to command. afew minutes later he returned and gave the quartermaster the nodd to open the door, it flung open and he dragged the Frenchman out..

"Lets go.."

He was taken out of the stockade and was to appear in front of Major Munroe. Lt.Colonel Crossley exited the command building followed by a Captian, they were crossing the parade sqaure to inspect the wounded soliders in the hospital,

"I must commend them in order to keep the morale good"

The Captian replyed,

"Very good sir, then there is the matter of the prisoners we have collected during todays events.."

Crossley raised his hand to show he was still aware of that fact,

"Yes, i know.."

He seen Halona in the Parade square,

"Hello Miss Halona, everything is well now..do not fear.."

"Do not worry about me Mr. Crossley; for I did not fear," she replied as she gave a smile to the man, "Do you need my asistance for anything sir?"

Crossley stopped and his follower did aswell,

"Well yes, i have been informed a Frenchman in the hospital wishes to speak with you..i do not know why Miss Halona,"

He spoke on another note..

"Uhh, do you know my indian allies out there..i noticed they seem to know you?"

The Captian did not involve himself in the conversation, he simply looked the other way towards some troops drilling to the far right, on the left side of the fort.

Kipu entered the walls again with all their booty hooting and hollaring letting everyone know they were proud of their loot.

Major Munroe was planning on how they would find the enemy encampment when Pierre was brought into the room, They were discussing open field battles and how they would prefer one over this form of heathen combat..

"Ahh, Sergent? You have some information i have heard..the crown would be abliged if you could assist us?"

She gasped as William mentioned that a french man would want to speak with her, "You do not know why? Sir, you know my situation, find out why."
Halona thought a moment after he asked her the question, "No sir, I do not know your indian allies, although I made eye contact with one."

She gasped as William mentioned that a french man would want to speak with her, "You do not know why? Sir, you know my situation, find out why."
Halona thought a moment after he asked her the question, "No sir, I do not know your indian allies, although I made eye contact with one."


Crossley turned to Captian Ross,

"Captian, i will meet you in the hospital..continue.."

He responded,

"Sir" then left...

Crossley watched as all the Natives passed looking at him and Halona, Kipu seemed to be alert and nodded to Crossley..

"Thats strange, they have an interest in you, we will meet that soldier in a moment..walk with me.."

The Colonel walked with her through the parade square,

"I will get you the proper attire for that dress Miss Halona, it looks nice"

He smiled warmly....

Halona's eyes swept over Kipu, she shown no fear nor submisiveness as she looked at him and inside she knew that he most likely did not take kindly to it.
Turning towards William she inquired, "I thank you for your complament, this was all the woman had to give. Although, I hate the thing, I thought it best to try and dress propper in your standards."

Halona's eyes swept over Kipu, she shown no fear nor submisiveness as she looked at him and inside she knew that he most likely did not take kindly to it.
Turning towards William she inquired, "I thank you for your complament, this was all the woman had to give. Although, I hate the thing, I thought it best to try and dress propper in your standards."

Kipu did not like to be looked at but remained calm and glared back as he walked by. Crossley continued to smile and said quietly,

"Thank you for taking that Brandy the other night, I have decided to cut down on my drinking..i think it's in my best interests.."

Halona said nothing as she looked ahead, "Yes, I agree with you on that Mr. Crossley."
She did not want to call him William in front of others, however if and when they were alone she would.

Halona said nothing as she looked ahead, "Yes, I agree with you on that Mr. Crossley."
She did not want to call him William in front of others, however if and when they were alone she would.

Colonel Crossley noticed she called him Mr.Crossley in public and it was better that way, it showed respect. He continued to walk with her around the fort,

"Is there any thought in your head those indians know about you? I am worried by the way Kipu looks, sort of like he wants to talk to me?"

Halona sighed, "Natives may know that I'm not part of there tribe, we have a way of knowing such things I do not know how to explain. What if he does speak with you and he says something like that?"

Halona sighed, "Natives may know that I'm not part of there tribe, we have a way of knowing such things I do not know how to explain. What if he does speak with you and he says something like that?"


Crossley looked suprized and spoke,

"Now Miss Halona, i wouldn't do anything..i don't consider you a threat but others may not agree, if they only have suspisions do not come out and tell them...understood?"

Crossley watched them carry Captian Mcdonald by his arms and legs,

"He was a fine officer...damned French.."

Halona gazed around, "Of course I will not say anything, I'm no foll Mr. Crossley."
She looked at the dead body of the man, "I know what you mean sir."

Crossley listened to her and responded,

"Very well miss Halona, i don't take you for a fool..."

They continued to walk though the parade square, British troops that had left the fort to do a short patrol returned through the gates,

"The battle went well for us today, victorious..."

http://www.barracks.org/thingsdo/images/RWF2.jpg

http://www.historycooperative.org/journals/jah/87.3/images/exr_9_f1.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/puffin11uk/index/redcoats.jpg

Halona thought a moment, "Anything you wish to discuss with me Mr. Crossley? Or, do you want to speak in private."

Halona thought a moment, "Anything you wish to discuss with me Mr. Crossley? Or, do you want to speak in private."

Crossley watched as the gates shut behind the men,

"Ahh,.. no..all is well and i am fine..just.."

He paused..

"It could get really bad around here Halona, the French will return to fight and i will hold this fort even if it means digging my grave behind it's ramparts.."

"I think you should go to Albany,there General Baird has lots of men..there is no threat of attack there...you will be safer than you are here.."

He looked worried...

Michael arrived at the gates of the fort around midnight. He did not plan to spend long there. He pulled his gun out to show he was not to come upon them. He knocked on the door. He was hungry and so was his pet..

Michael arrived at the gates of the fort around midnight. He did not plan to spend long there. He pulled his gun out to show he was not to come upon them. He knocked on the door. He was hungry and so was his pet..

The sentry above shouted,

"Who goes there?"

He waited for the man below to answear his question. The moon was high in the sky and the fort was light up with candles and lanterns, the breeze was warm as it swept though the area...

Colonel Orlean pulled his sack from off the horse. He threw it next to the fire, and unrolled it. He carefully laid his pistol and sword next to himself, and rolled himself up. He said, "I'll be sleeping here tongiht, since its nice enough out. G'night, Dumas." He could be heard murmuring some prayers, before dosing off to sleep.

Halona pondered this for a moment, "And, just how would I get there? This man that you speak of may not recieve me as kindly as you do..William."
She whispered quietly, so that only he heard her.

I am a traveler. I come for refuge. And i have information. i sighted a french army! he shouted to the guard

Reallydrunk']Major Munroe was planning on how they would find the enemy encampment when Pierre was brought into the room, They were discussing open field battles and how they would prefer one over this form of heathen combat..

"Ahh, Sergent? You have some information i have heard..the crown would be abliged if you could assist us?"

"You see that Irishman. He mistreated the prisoners we had back our camp. He was going to shoot a Sgt by the name of Jedd White luckly Lt.Dumas stopped him. I think you should treat him no better then a deserter." Sgt.Pierre stated.

Charles put down his bottle. He started to call out. "Hey Captain where's the native?"

Back at the French encampment the walls were about 1/3 done. They would get back tommorrow and be done by that afternoon. Lt.Dumas posted 10 for guard duty they would switch every thirty minutes. Lt.Dumas went to his quarters and slept for th night.

Colonel Orlean woke up early, amd stretched. He walked to his horse, pulled a piece of parchment and a pen and ink, and began composing a letter. When he was done, he rolled itmup, and called for a Lieutenant, and a Sergeant. "G'morning gentlemen. I have a favor to ask. I need you, under the white flag of truce, to go to the British fort. My mind is restless on what happened to a certain Irish brigade. Take this letter," he handed it to them, "And give it to the officer you speak with. Thank you, sirs." "We accept Colonel, thank you for trusting us." The Colonel added, "Take a private too, for protection." They responded, "Yes, Colonel." The men walked off. They would navigate around, so they would approach the fort from a different direction that their camp was. The men carried a stick, with a white rag tied to it. As they came out onto the field, and approached the fort. The Lieutenant ordered the men to hold their weapons in one hand, and point them to the ground, holding them limply. They approached the gate, and the Lieutenant said, "Excuse me, sir. I am a Lieutenant of the French militia. I have a letter from my commanding officer, and I wish to speak to the hghest officer possible, possibly the commander."

The letter read:
Honourable Commander,
I am a Colonel of the French army, though I command militia. I have a simple request, and that is to inquire about the fate of a certain Captain Patrick O'Reilly and his Saint Bridget's Brigade of Irishmen. I trust that their condition is well, as you are an honourable man, if you are an officer of the Queen. I also wish to inform that five British prisoners are doing alright, under the curcumstances. It is my understanding that they have recieved medical care. One, I believe a sergeant, has outstanding leadership skills. He deserves a commission, free of charge in my opinion. I will close now, reminding you of the request that I be informed of the fate of the Irish brigade,
May we both pray for an end of this war.
Signed,
Colonel Charles Orlean, Commissioned officer in the Royal Army and Commander of Militia

Lt.Dumas woke up and saw that Col.Orlean was talking to some men. He woke the rest of his men up and started to build the defenses up again. Walking up to Orlean he asked. "Can you tell your men to help work on the defenses. I think the outer wall will be done. Also what were you doing with the men and that letter?"

Colonel Orlean ordered his men to help with the defences. He also ordered four to begin cooking breakfast. Colonel Orlean then said to Dumas, "I'm curious about what happened to Captain O'Reilly. I sent them to the British fort. Don't worry, they are going the long way around, and are under the flag of truce." Orlean thoguht for a moment, then called up five of his men. He ordered them to go up the path a ways, and guard the path, in case the British tried to follow them back. He turned to Dumas, "You should send some of yuor men too, to lay silently for a while after my men return. That way, if the Brits try to follow them back, we can capture them."

"What the hell? You didn't even ask my thought on this matter. Tell your men to get back here. The British are not going to attack. They know they if they come out we could ambush them. Also this all depends on if those three men come back. They could be attacked by natives. The natives don't carry about a flag. What did you tell the British in the letter?" Lt.Dumas asked. He was angry since Col. Orlean did something without asking him.

"Excuse me, Lieutenant Colonel, but do not demand things of me." He sighed, and said, "I told them that we are keeping their prisoenrs in good shape, and I inquired about Captain O'Reilly's fate." He looked out into the woods, and did not say naything about the natives.

"O'Reilly. Leave him. That little bug. I hope the British crush him like a bug. He never listened to my orders and was about to kill one of the prisoners." Lt.Dumas said as he looked toward his men. Soon they would get their rations.

"He is a human being, and a commissioned French officer, though. He should stand trial though. His rank should be taken from him then."

"I think the British are going to have a trial for him. I thought I saw one of my men getting captured before he left. He will tell them most likely." Lt. Dumas stated.

"Unfortunate, because the Brits won't give an Irish nationalist a fair trial."

"Well his going to get what he deserved then. So when do you think breakfast will be ready?" Lt.Dumas said trying to change the topic.

"I'm not sure. I think they are cooknig some salted meat. We found some berries in the woods on the way too, and water. Should be ready soon."

"Ok." Lt.Dumas walked back into his tent and pulled out his sabre. He started to clean it. Right next to it was one of captured British sabre. It would make a fine trophy.

The British sentrys at the gate let the traveler in without further adue, often frontieer men showed up seeking refuge for awhile, Leiutennet Webb received him upon entry,

"You will be fed friend of the crown, also you may help yourself to our powder stores in exchange for your vauluble information..you may also have refuge here untill you see fit..those are the terms of my commanding officer sir"

He continued,

"What may i tell my commander your name is sir?"

_________________________________________

Captian O'Riley was taken from the stockade and brought to Major Munroe immeaditly,

"Ahh, Captian..i have had a report you like to shoot British POW's? is that true? do not lie to me Captian because we also have ways of obtaining information.."

"Aye?"
________________________________________

Halona was sent for by the Captian who accompanyed Crosseley, meanwhile Crossley was asked for at the gates. He went to where he received a letter from a French Colonel, he stood there in front of the French soldiers reading the letter carefully,

"Wait here sirs, i would much rather deliver a formal message from myself rather than by use of words.."

The Colonel went back towards his headquarters and dissapeared for about twenty minutes, he returned with a letter sealed with the crowns wax crest,

Distinguished French Commander
I Am Colonel William Crossley in her Majestys royal armed forces. I recognize your request for the following information and it shall not be with held. The captive Irish soldiers will be treated accordingly and no hostillities will be inflicted upon them as we are not in the position to judge who has done what. Those men aswell as the French prisoners we have collected will be given full quarter, they have been fed, given medical attention and respected as soldiers. I have not had the pleasure to meet your men yet due to all my dutys at this present time, but i will surely arrange for a meeting soon. As for the news of my prisoners im glad to know my Sergent Jedd White lives and was not killed in the ambush, he is a good man Colonel. The Sergent you have stated deserves a promotion, was that decided by yourself? If so it would be possible for us to accept him as a officer.
May all of return home in time

In Her Majestys Service
Col.Crossley

Crossley stood at attention,

"Give this to your commander.."

The French were then escorted out and the sentrys watched them leave the area.

Halona pondered this for a moment, "And, just how would I get there? This man that you speak of may not recieve me as kindly as you do..William."
She whispered quietly, so that only he heard her.

Crossley thought for a moment, a soldier approached him obviously with a question,

"Yes..on second thought you may stay, we will expand on it later.."

The soldier stopped and Crossley turned to him,

"Sir!, French at the gate have a dispatch for you sir"

Crossley strolled off, he saw a trapper/Guide pass by, he nodded to say hello..

OOC: The bottom happens before the top, woops! LOL

O'Reilly said, "Major, I have done no such thing. I would not stoop to thee level of an Englishman."
---
The French lieutenant thanked Crossley, and then went back the long way again. They were impressed by him. When they arrived back at their camp, they gave the letter to Colonel Charles Orlean. He nodded, and thanked the men. He read the letter, and nodded. He placed it into his belongings. He walked into Lieutenant Dumas' tent, and said, "Lieutenant Colonel, I have recieved a letter back from the British. Our comrades ar ebeing treated well. There were some Frenchmen captured as well." He then walked to where the British prisoenrs were being kept. He produced the letter and handed it to White, "Sergeant, I am Colonel Orlean. You may wish to read this letter. It is from Colonel Crossley in responce to my letter. He thinks highly of you, Sergeant." Colonel Orlean steped a few feet back, and watched the Sergeant. He then added, "Captain O'Reilly was captured."

OOC: Sorry I didn't get to respond sooner...

IC: When the enemy charged from the foliage at Sharpe's riflemen, Lieutenant Knowles ordered a full retreat. At the cost of five men, the Riflemen were able to get back into the fort. From there, they assumed a position on the ramparts, picking off enemies and aiding the garrison. Sharpe joined them there, directing their actions. After the battle, the three wounded were recovered, while two of those lost in the retreat were killed. With the addition of two men shot on the ramparts, the Company's casualties came up to 7 men.

After the battle, Sharpe sought out Lt.Col. Crossley, saying, "You requested my presence, sir?"

---------
In Albany, this reply was sent to the Fort:

Lt.Col. Crossley,
I understand your need for men, but unfortunately this command has to balance the defence of our settlements, judicious strikes at the enemy, and garrison duty with your needs. I am afraid I cannot spare an entire regiment, but I can send you five companies, 350 men, under Major McCandless to aid you. One of these companies is of the famed Highlanders, so no doubt they shall serve you well.

Sincerely,
Sir Thomas Baird, Brigadier General of Her Majesty's Army and Commander of British Forces in North America

Halona turned towards the captain, "What is it that you want with me?"
Halona inquired, her eyes watching Crossley before turning back towards the other man.

OOC: Sorry I didn't get to respond sooner...

IC: When the enemy charged from the foliage at Sharpe's riflemen, Lieutenant Knowles ordered a full retreat. At the cost of five men, the Riflemen were able to get back into the fort. From there, they assumed a position on the ramparts, picking off enemies and aiding the garrison. Sharpe joined them there, directing their actions. After the battle, the three wounded were recovered, while two of those lost in the retreat were killed. With the addition of two men shot on the ramparts, the Company's casualties came up to 7 men.

After the battle, Sharpe sought out Lt.Col. Crossley, saying, "You requested my presence, sir?"

---------
In Albany, this reply was sent to the Fort:

Lt.Col. Crossley,
I understand your need for men, but unfortunately this command has to balance the defence of our settlements, judicious strikes at the enemy, and garrison duty with your needs. I am afraid I cannot spare an entire regiment, but I can send you five companies, 350 men, under Major McCandless to aid you. One of these companies is of the famed Highlanders, so no doubt they shall serve you well.

Sincerely,
Sir Thomas Baird, Brigadier General of Her Majesty's Army and Commander of British Forces in North America

Lt.Colonel Crossley received the dispatch from General Baird while he was in the hospital within the fort. He was pleased with the reply from General Baird, he realized the reason for the amount of troops that would be sent to assist the forts defences, the native allies and members of the Militia would be sent to make sure the men would have safe passage through enemy territory to the fort,

"We are receiving aid here at the fort, it is great news..." He said to Halona

He exited the hospital to leave her with the French soldier who requested her presence, he had dutys to attend to. He met up with Captian Sharpe in the parade square,

"Ahh Captian! fine scrimish on your part..we are being reinforced and i have made the proper arrangements so that they receive safe passage, I will be asking the French for a parlay so that we may discuss certian issues..such as POW treatment and targeting of officers during engaugements, i must claim a greeved status"

O'Reilly said, "Major, I have done no such thing. I would not stoop to thee level of an Englishman."
---
The French lieutenant thanked Crossley, and then went back the long way again. They were impressed by him. When they arrived back at their camp, they gave the letter to Colonel Charles Orlean. He nodded, and thanked the men. He read the letter, and nodded. He placed it into his belongings. He walked into Lieutenant Dumas' tent, and said, "Lieutenant Colonel, I have recieved a letter back from the British. Our comrades ar ebeing treated well. There were some Frenchmen captured as well." He then walked to where the British prisoenrs were being kept. He produced the letter and handed it to White, "Sergeant, I am Colonel Orlean. You may wish to read this letter. It is from Colonel Crossley in responce to my letter. He thinks highly of you, Sergeant." Colonel Orlean steped a few feet back, and watched the Sergeant. He then added, "Captain O'Reilly was captured."

Major Munroe eyed him then called the quartermaster,

"I see no fault in this man, return him to the stockade immeaditly..."

The Quartermaster took the Irishman by the arm and lead him back to the stockade.


Sergent White scanned over the letter and replyed to Colonel Orlean,

"Thank you Colonel, you are a good man...I can now be sure that my commanding officer made it out of the scrimish alive and well, you have my meny thanks"

_______________________________________________________
Lt.Colonel Crossley had the following dispatch sent out by a uniformed corrier with a second man who carried a flag of truce,

Honorable Colonel Orlean
I, Colonel Crossley in her majestys royal armed forces wish to parlay so we may discuss certian matters, i would like to claim a greeved status almost immeaditly. I apoligize for cutting this message short but it is of the outmost importance this correspondance reaches you,

Much Abliged, Colonel William Crossley

Colonel Orlean responded to Sergeant White, "Hopefully we will all make it out of here alive." A private then ran up to Orlean, "Colonel, there are two British soldiers here. We found them wandering around the woods. They claim to have a letter for you sir. We blindfolded them so they could not find the fort." Orlean repsonded, "I will go at once." He went to the gate, and found the Britsih soldeirs under truce. He closed the gate, and ordered the blindfolds removed. "Welcome gentlemen. I apologise for the blindfolding, but it was necessary." He took the letter, read it, and said, "As this is urgent, tell Colonel Crossley that later this day, I will go to your fort, under truce, to discuss this matter." He handed them some berries, and refilled their water. "That is for the trip back." They were reblindffolded, and led out of the woods.
----------
Colonel Orlean walked into Lieutenant Dumas' tent. "Lieutenant, I have recieved a dispatch from Colonel Crossley. He wishes to discuss some matters with us. I have informed the messengers we will arrive later today." He continued, "I shall be bringing some men and officers with me. I suggest that we bring the prisoners as well, as a sign of goodwill. Perhaps we can even exchange some, and can prove that they are still alive. God knows what O'Reilly told them." Colonel Orlean attached his sword and pistol, and mounted his horse. He tied his musket to his saddle, and placed his hat on. He ordered eight privates to form a line, with two sergeants next to them. He also took his major, a Captain, and a Lieutenant with him. The other officers would hold the fort and command the rest of the men in lieu of Orlean. He put the three officers in front of him, in a line, and the prisoenrs in between the officers and the men. They began to march, the long way, out of the woods. He awaited Dumas and his men to follow. When they did, they began crossing the field, to the British fort.

"Sir, you know the tracks we've been following for several days?"
"How, Sergeant, could I possibly forget?"
"Well, they go that way." The man pointed.
"And..."
"From the map we got before striking out this way, there's a fort down there."
"Ah yes. Well, maybe we should pay our regards to the commander. Get First and Tenth out in skirmish, in case someone's left a calling card; remainder stay in column of route."
"Aye sir."
The order was passed. Nomara smiled as he watched his dark green-coated men move into action.
He had scraped up enough money to re-equip the best shots in his two Light companies, the First and Tenth, with the long rifles that were so popular here; spent the rest on supplies. They were now on a march into the wilderness, and if they didn't find anything soon, they would have to turn back and work as bandits near the coast for a living. He had a hunch, however, that either British or French commanders on the frontier would unofficially retain his men for a while...they were always short of troops.

Some of the French men on patrol saw the green coated men travelling trampling around. They sent back for a Captain who came, with some more men. The Captain ordered his men to fire into the air. He stepped out, and said, "I am a Captain of the French militia. Who are you?"

"That man is liar in your next letter to the French ask for a Lt.Dumas to tell the truth." Sgt.Pierre called out.

Lt.Dumas looked at Col.Orlean. "Ok I will just come. We are not bringing the prisoners. The prisoners are under my care not yours."

Lt.Dumas walked out and mounted a horse his men all surrondered the British hoping that the other French militia wouldn't take them.

Charles started to moan and wail. "Captain I beg of you I wish to see the native woman!"

"Lieutenant Colonel, we are taking the prisoners. Do you wish to have your men back?"

Colonel Orlean responded to Sergeant White, "Hopefully we will all make it out of here alive." A private then ran up to Orlean, "Colonel, there are two British soldiers here. We found them wandering around the woods. They claim to have a letter for you sir. We blindfolded them so they could not find the fort." Orlean repsonded, "I will go at once." He went to the gate, and found the Britsih soldeirs under truce. He closed the gate, and ordered the blindfolds removed. "Welcome gentlemen. I apologise for the blindfolding, but it was necessary." He took the letter, read it, and said, "As this is urgent, tell Colonel Crossley that later this day, I will go to your fort, under truce, to discuss this matter." He handed them some berries, and refilled their water. "That is for the trip back." They were reblindffolded, and led out of the woods.
----------
Colonel Orlean walked into Lieutenant Dumas' tent. "Lieutenant, I have recieved a dispatch from Colonel Crossley. He wishes to discuss some matters with us. I have informed the messengers we will arrive later today." He continued, "I shall be bringing some men and officers with me. I suggest that we bring the prisoners as well, as a sign of goodwill. Perhaps we can even exchange some, and can prove that they are still alive. God knows what O'Reilly told them." Colonel Orlean attached his sword and pistol, and mounted his horse. He tied his musket to his saddle, and placed his hat on. He ordered eight privates to form a line, with two sergeants next to them. He also took his major, a Captain, and a Lieutenant with him. The other officers would hold the fort and command the rest of the men in lieu of Orlean. He put the three officers in front of him, in a line, and the prisoenrs in between the officers and the men. They began to march, the long way, out of the woods. He awaited Dumas and his men to follow. When they did, they began crossing the field, to the British fort.

Sergent White agreed with Colonel Orlean,

"Yes, if i was given the option i would simply return to England never to fight again, it beats a French prison.. things will go their course.."

He watched as the officer left....

The British soldiers returned to the fort where they informed Colonel Crossley that had completed their tasking.

________________________________________________________
The Fort:

Colonel Crossley ordered that all soldiers in the fort were to become present in order to make it seem they had their required strength, troops lined up on the parade grounds practicing drill. Crossley, Major Munroe, Captian Webb, Leiutennet Jennings and Leiutennet Vaughan stood near the command building on the other side of the complex awaiting their parlay with the French.

Indian allies and milita were also asked to show their presence, the gathered on the far left side at the top of the fort...

"Incomming! green jackets approach!"

Major Munroe looked at Crossley,

"Who the hell could that be?"

Crossley looked concerned, then issued an order to a near by sergent,

"Man the batteries!"

The sergent shouted,

"Man the guns!"

Captian Webb went to the ramparts to see what was going on...

"No we are not taking the prisoners Colonel. They are not leaving this campsite. Also I care about my men, but this war and they knew the price they would have to pay." Dumas' men surrondered the prisoners and looked at the militia.

"Lieutenant Colonel, I do not wish to use my authority, but I will if I must. Order your men away from the prisoners, or I will issue an order to you." Colonel Orlean's eyes begged, as he did not want to use his authority.

OOC: Halona the native girl is in the same room with Charles....

"Ha that is funny Colonel. Oh guess you don't know. You are a Colonel in the militia rank. I'm Lieutenant Colonel in the regular rank. Regular rank officers are higher then militia I'm sorry to say. So why don't just your force and me just get going to the fort." Dumas looked at Orlean. He thought that Orlean was a fine soldier, but couldn't really tell him why he was keeping the British.

Some of the French men on patrol saw the green coated men travelling trampling around. They sent back for a Captain who came, with some more men. The Captain ordered his men to fire into the air. He stepped out, and said, "I am a Captain of the French militia. Who are you?"

The scouts had been watching for a while - the French patrols were perfectly visible to the skirmishers. However, the following column was all too visible, and they had been unable to signal back to it to halt.
"Bonjour Capitain. Je suis Sergeant Laplace." he said, rising from cover yards in front of the Frenchman.
"Je suive Commandant Nomara. Nous sommes une tranche de son armee."
[Good day Captain, I am Sergeant Laplace. I follow Commander Nomara, we are part of his army. (in my very bad French)]
Laplace was a descendant of Huguenots. He spoke fluent French, and hated the French nation with a passion.
Now, having been spotted, they could move. One of his men rushed back to the Commander, telling him they had encountered the French. Keeping one company formed up, he swiftly had the remainder shake out into a formation in keeping with the setting - skirmish order. They spread into the woods either side of the road.
He then walked up to where his Sergeant waited.
"Captain, how can we help you on this fine morning?"

Reallydrunk']The British sentrys at the gate let the traveler in without further adue, often frontieer men showed up seeking refuge for awhile, Leiutennet Webb received him upon entry,

"You will be fed friend of the crown, also you may help yourself to our powder stores in exchange for your vauluble information..you may also have refuge here untill you see fit..those are the terms of my commanding officer sir"

He continued,

"What may i tell my commander your name is sir?"

_________________________________________

Michael spoke "my name, is Colin Lewis. I will ofcourse share information i have, but i fear i do not have much. I was also hoping to get my clothes cleaned, maybe bath, warm food." he stared at the soldier, " hup hup, show me the grub" "Colin" said with a greedy smile.

"Lieutenant Colonel, I am a Colonel in the regular army. They gave me this commission, as long as I command militia, much as you command militia." He ghied and said, "Then we should just bring Sergeant White, to show thatwe treat prisoners well."

The French captain said to the greencoat, "Hello, Commander. I was wondering who you were." He smirked, and nodded at Laplace.

"I am Commander John Nomara, and these are my men. Any further questions, or can we proceed along our merry way?"

Michael spoke "my name, is Colin Lewis. I will ofcourse share information i have, but i fear i do not have much. I was also hoping to get my clothes cleaned, maybe bath, warm food." he stared at the soldier, " hup hup, show me the grub" "Colin" said with a greedy smile.

The soldier replyed,

"Of course Mr.Lewis, your clothes will be cleaned and you shall be fed..in the order you choose of course.."

A second soldier marched to speak with Major Munroe who stood at the end of the parade grounds with Colonel Crossley, it looked as if they prepared for a formal meeting of some sort....

"Lieutenant Colonel, I am a Colonel in the regular army. They gave me this commission, as long as I command militia, much as you command militia." He ghied and said, "Then we should just bring Sergeant White, to show thatwe treat prisoners well."

"Orlean I really don't want to do this, but we must keep the prisoners." Dumas said. "I have orders from General Montcalm to keep all prisoners. There will be no prisoner exchange. Sgt. White,for all that I like, will sadly be taken off to Canada. This is not my orders. If you want to see them I will show you."

"Commander, are you of a nation? If not, then perhaps Colonel Orlean could use your assistance, sir."

"We act only for ourselves. For that reason, I shall have to discover and consider the local situation before I commit to assisting anyone."

Charles looked toward Halona. "So your the native woman? You are more beautiful then any European I have ever seen."

"If the General ordered it, then we can do nothing." He sighe,d and said, "Let's go."
---
As they began to get closer tot he British fort, the eight men formed a different formation. One man unfurled a massive white flag, with the fluer de lis scattered about it. The man carrying that (musket over shoulder as well) was in the front, then came six men, three in a line, all armed then a drummer, also with musket over his shoulder. Behind him was the Major in the middle, with a Captain and Lieutenant flanking him, with swords and pistols. Behind them followed Colonel Orlean and Lieutenant Colonel Dumas on horesback. When they approached the fort, Colonel Orlean yelled, "We are here for a meeting with Lieutenant Colonel Crossley!"

The Captain said to the greenback. "Please stay for a while. Perhaps you can meet with Colonel Orlean?"

"If the General ordered it, then we can do nothing." He sighe,d and said, "Let's go."
---
As they began to get closer tot he British fort, the eight men formed a different formation. One man unfurled a massive white flag, with the fluer de lis scattered about it. The man carrying that (musket over shoulder as well) was in the front, then came six men, three in a line, all armed then a drummer, also with musket over his shoulder. Behind him was the Major in the middle, with a Captain and Lieutenant flanking him, with swords and pistols. Behind them followed Colonel Orlean and Lieutenant Colonel Dumas on horesback. When they approached the fort, Colonel Orlean yelled, "We are here for a meeting with Lieutenant Colonel Crossley!"

The sentry at the gate alerted the fort to the incomming French officers under the white flag, Crossley and his officers remained in their formation at the end of the parade square,

"Gates open!" yelled a sergent standing by the entrance..

On both sides of the parade sqaure stood British regluars, afew dragoons were assembled near the stables, a command was given by a leiutennet..

"ATTENTION!" all the regulars presented arms...

Crossley watched the French cross his parade square,

"Officers! to atten-tion!" Ordered Crossley eyes trained of the officers..

The British officers straightened up comming to attention with great skill, the French drum was the only sound that echoed through the air as it got closer and closer....

Behind Crossley stood two flag beaers with large British flags, the French also brought their colours, they fluttered in the wind....

"He is the local commander I assume? I am sure that I can meet to speak with him."
He turned to Laplace
"Sergeant, get the men together, just leave the First out for now."
"Sir."
Within moments whistles were heard, calling the men in; they began appearing out of the bushes, brushing themselves down, and forming up into their companies.
Soon four full companies were formed up on and around the road.
"Where is this colonel of yours to be found, Captain?"

The Captain replied, "I believe he is currently meeting with the British commander, Sir. However, when he arrives, I will inform him." He thoguht to himself, Who the hell are they.
------
The Colonel ordered his men to halt. When they did, the drum finished its tune, and stopped. The Sergeant holding the flag yelled a command, "Make way!" The six men turned and faced each other, then stepped back a few steps. The sergeant marched around behind the officers, and planted the flag firmly into the ground, and held onto it. All stepped to one side, and OClonel orlean rode up, and stopped before the British officers. He sharply said, "I am Colonel Charles Orleans, of the Royal French Army." He motioned to Lieutenant Dumas, "This is Lieutenant Colonel Dumas." He then motioned back to his officers, "And they are a sampling of my officers."

The Captain replied, "I believe he is currently meeting with the British commander, Sir. However, when he arrives, I will inform him." He thoguht to himself, Who the hell are they.

"Ideal. I'll go over and say hello, see both of them at once."
He gathered Sergeant Laplace in his wake; which man grabbed a squad, and put together a makeshift flag of truce.
The marched under this flag to the fortress.

Crossley replyed to the French Colonel,

"I am Lt.Colonel William Crossley of her majestys royal armed forces, to my left is Major Munroe, to my right Captian Webb, we welcome you gentleman to our fort..we shall go inside yes?"

The fort remained quiet untill another shout was heard,

"Incomming!"

Crossley looked puzzled for a moment then Captian Webb glanced at him, Colonel Crossley nodded and Webb marched off towards the ramparts,

"Seems as if we have more visitors? More of your countrymen Colonel?"

The Captain tried to stop him, but then decided better. he brought his jmen back tot he French fort and ordered the gates closed.
--
"None under my command are supposed to come, Colonel." Orlean looked puzzled, and then asked, "Mind if I see who they are?"

There seemed to be activity within the fort.
Nomara called up
"I am Commander Nomara, and I am a free agent here. I understand that the commanders of both French and British forces are present?
I would like to speak with them."

"None under my command are supposed to come, Colonel." Orlean looked puzzled, and then asked, "Mind if I see who they are?"


Colonel Crossley nodded and signaled for Major Munroe and two Leiutennets to follow them towards the stairs leading to the ramparts,

"Of course Colonel, right this way..."

The Colonel looked, then turned to Crossley, "They are not mine."

The Colonel looked, then turned to Crossley, "They are not mine."


Crossley frowned, he then heard the man below ask for the French and British commanders, he spoke to a near by sentry,

"Let them in...."

The group returned to the parade square and went into the command building and into Crossleys office,

"Now we await them to join us.."

The gates were opened and the men were let in, the redcoats remained in ranks on both sides of the parade square....

Captian Webb met Commander Nomara,

"Welcome to the fort...please follow me to the parlay..."

"Of course..." reading the rank insignia "Captain."
"If you don't mind my men shall remain with me for now. They get...twitchy...otherwise."

Orlean motioned for Dumas to follow, but told his othe rofficers to remain with the men. He said if he needed them, he would send for them.
After they walked into the command building, and sat, Orelan removed his hat, placed it on the table and said, "Free agent means mercenary." To break the silence. All metal on his white uniform gleamed whenever light hit it.

Captian Webb raised an eyebrow to the comment made by the visitor,

"As you wish commander, please..come this way"

Webb lead him to the command building where they entered. They climed the stairs and entered Colonel Crossleys officer,

"Sir!, Commander Nomara..and..his men..."

Webb gave them a strange face with his back turned to Nomara, he stepped aside allowing the officers to veiw the man,

"Welcome commander..uhh..which nation do you repersent?" Said Crossley..

Colonel Crossley was dressed in his formal uniform, Red with black trim. He removed his cap aswell placing it on the table,

"It's not often i wear this uniform sir, i am a dragoon..."

"I represent no nation; I work for myself, and for the good of my men. As the good Colonel said, I am a mercenary.
We are currently assessing the situation locally, to ascertain which side we will offer our services to."

Colonel Orlean questioned him, "How did you know I was here? Which one of my officers told you?"

Crossley nodded and replyed,

"Ahh yes, mercenary...we have somthing similar to your forces, our Militia of course..and to which standards does your paying ally have to meet sir?"

The other officers in the room seemed to be interested in this fellow...

"A militia Captain. I forget his name.

Just by the way, your patrols are quite inept; our scouts had spotted them long before they saw us, and had we been hostile your patrol would have been dead. Isn't that so Sergeant?" he turned to Laplace
"Aye, sir. Had the Captain over the barrel of my own rifle sir."
"As to your question, our employer will have to provide us with provisions; reasonable control of our operations, so that we are not used as cannon fodder; and a level of payment to be negotiated."

Colonel Orleans smiled, "They are militia. The ones on patrol had no prior experiance, except militia." Colonel Orleans then said, "You also realised, you did a dangerous thing as well? Approaching a fort, with an army, without giving the commander prior knowledge, in wartime. You could have been hit with artillery, sir." Colonel Orleans then continued, "Anyhow, I believe that the French army can provide provisions. Some of my men were trappers, previousy. Also, you could have a lot control over your forces if you worked for us. I prefer to say work with us, unless your views contradict with mine and Lieutenant Colonel Dumas' views, of course. W ewill still have to negotiate payment, though, sir." he nodded at Colonel Crossley, and grinned.

"There are always risks, Colonel.
However my men are not quite under the fort's guns; and I proceeded with a small party under flag of truce. This may be the frontier, but it doesn't mean that such things are meaningless.

And I would, without wishing to offend, hear the British answer also before I decide."

"I have sent men under a white flag as well, Commander." He then continued, "And of coruse you should hear the British answer too."

Colonel Crossley listened carefully to the conversations between the men,

"Well, England always has use for new allies of course..we could provide the apropriate provissions required by your men Commander, once a pact is finalized we expect all men to abide by the crowns rules of course..."

He paused..

"To serve the crown there are certian expectations one must live up to in order to have the full support of England, Indian allies in the past have failed to meet those expectations and therefore were abandoned by her majesty..."

He looked around the room,

"The crown is fair, and we uphold our agreements with any allies that wish to make themselves known..."

Major Munroe spoke,

"Yes, it is an agreement worth considering sir...Loyalty is of the highest importance these days..."

(OOC: I'm still in this rp, however I've been very busy today and I have to read from page 29 to 31, when I do I will reply to Charles..I just want you to know I didn't forget..I'll be back!)

Lt. Dumas looked at Crossely and this Major Munroe. "It's a pleasure to meet both of you." Lt.Dumas looked at the British. They looked to be under their normal levels. Odd he thought. Lt.Dumas wondered why this mercenaries.

Colonel Crossley sat at the table awaiting the reply of the merc's,

"I shall give you a moment to reply, in the meantime.."

He looked at Lt.Dumas,

"It is a pleasure meeting you aswell Lt.Dumas, i have heard of you and believe i had an encounter with your men in the field before to the north? you captured my Sergent and manged to kill my leiutennet? I am a dragoon..excuse the formal uniform..i felt it appropriate for this parlay"

"What was the lieutenants name? Also yes we hold Sgt.White and five other men under captive. Those aren't the only ones I have killed. When were attacking the fort I shot the fat scottish captain I think. Its always a pain to see a life thrown away." Lt.Dumas stated. So this is the person who commanded the British in the first small skirmish.

"I am afraid I cannot in all conscience commit my men just yet. Both your conditions sound acceptable; it comes down to the situation of your forces, and the payment on offer.
I am reasonably confident, from what I have seen, that my forces can tip the balance here; however if either of you is expecting significant reinforcement, that could alter the factors involved."

Crossley sighed,

"Burton, Lt.Burton...and yes i am the commander of those British forces in the first scrimish here on lake George...i was in South Carolina before this, England before that..."

He continued..

"Yes, Captian Mcdonald was a good officer..."

"I see your decision Commander and therefore i am able to accept it, we are all gentleman here and therefore should accept one anothers decisions..there is another matter i would like to discuss.."

"The spacific targeting of my officers...it causes much havoc when leaderless armys ravage at eachother like wild dogs, that is where i have claimed by greived status..."

"Sorry Crossley. We will not stop firing upon your officers until your men stop firing upon my men." Lt.Dumas said. He remembered when two of his men and himself fired upon McDonald fall to the ground.

"Sorry Crossley. We will not stop firing upon your officers until your men stop firing upon my men." Lt.Dumas said. He remembered when two of his men and himself fired upon McDonald fall to the ground.

Crossley seemed to get slightly upset but remained calm,

"My officers are gentleman who asume command of my men on my behalf!, that is improper conduct sir!"

Major Munroe seemed pleased his commanding officer was starting to get upset....

"Men fire upon men, it is war! but sir! you ignore the rules of war, have you no respect? those men are commissioned by her majesty!"

"I really do not care about your majesty. I care about mine. Then your gentleman will make excellent targets for my men then." Lt.Dumas stated. So far his men had killed quite a bit of the officers under Crossely's command.

"I really do not care about your majesty. I care about mine. Then your gentleman will make excellent targets for my men then." Lt.Dumas stated. So far his men had killed quite a bit of the officers under Crossely's command.

Crossley replyed,

"Do you consider yourself civilized? In my mind sir you conduct youself as the savages do.."

Captian Webb got up and left the room...

Major Munroe spoke,

"There is no need for these hostillities Lt, this is a serious matter.."

Colonel Orlean thought for a moment, then said, "Colonel Crossley, perhaps we would stop killing British officers, if your savage allies conducted themselves as gentlemen." He sighed with sadness and said, "Don't get me wrong, I hate this style of war. My superiors and friends say I should have been brought up in Europe. However, in Europe, savages do not ruin the image of any side in a conflict." He contineud, "However, under no circumstances shall a clergyman be shot."

"So the natives are savages. What if I told them that? Also I don't consider my self civilized. I consider my self French. I may perhaps give mercy to your officers." Lt.Dumas stated. He wish he could get into a nice duel with this Murnoe.

Crossley looked to Colonel Orlean,

"My natives come and go as they please, i have no control over them Colonel..this manner on which we fight is sheer madness.."

He continued...

"Colonel Orlean..can you not control those under your command, i thought you to be an honorable man..for that matter both of you, officers are not targeted in Europe why can it not remain the same here good sirs..we are letting our own civilized way slip..?"

Captian Webb returned and took his seat,

"Sorry gentleman..excuse me for my brief absence.."

"Colonel, not one of my men has ever shot an officer in this war. Address your concerns to Lieutenant Colonel Dumas. You said earlier savages had standards to follow for allieing with you. Why not enforce them now?"

"Most of the time the men I have shot or my men have shot have been at random. The only time I directed a attack on a officer was a man leading the cannons that were shooting at us. I will agree to keep officers out of this, but I'm the only officer in my platoon." Lt.Dumas said as he eyed this Captain Webb. "What were you doing Captain Webb?"

Charles looked toward Halona. "So your the native woman? You are more beautiful then any European I have ever seen."

(OOC: Back!)

IC:
Halona ignored the french man's comment, standing up and looking down at the wounded man, "What is it you want with me?"

"I think I can remeber who you are. Your a Huron right. You remind of a cheif's daugther or sister. Her name was Halona or something like that. I could never forget her face. She was a beautiful native." Charles said. A while back he was sent with a outfit to check on the Huron. He could remember his time with the natives.

Halona took a step back, "You're wrong about me, now if that is all may I leave?"

"No you look exactly like her. What's your name?" Charles asked.

Halona paused remembering what William Crossley had told her, "I'm sorry, I'm not her. My name is Abay."

Crossley nodded and replyed to Colonel Orlean,

"I apoligize Colonel, as for my natives they do not fight the same as my soldiers do...i can only try and enforce the queens rules, they do what they must for their..white fathers.. as they call us and they are rewarded"

He continued after a pause..

"I have seen them countless times looting the bodys of enemys and tell them not to do so, it is not christian to act like that..but..they consider it payment for their services, we would not want to spark any agression with them of course.."

"Lt Dumas, you must see where i come from of course..it's horrible, my men are instructed to eliminate enemy troops before they fire on an officer, with the way the battles are faught here it is more difficult yes?"

Captian Webb replyed..

"If it was any of your buisness sir, i would be sure to inform you.."

Major Munroe spoke in Lt.Dumas's defence,

"Captian!"

Webb spoke,

"I apoligize sir, but i had to point of that fact..my rudeness was unnessasary.."

"Captain what's her name!" Charles pointed toward Halona. "You are her aren't you? I was at the village one month ago and she ran away."

(OOC: She ran away a month ago..not week.)

IC:
"I told you," Halona said, "My name is Abay, it is indian name that means leaf."

Reallydrunk']Crossley nodded and replyed to Colonel Orlean,

"I apoligize Colonel, as for my natives they do not fight the same as my soldiers do...i can only try and enforce the queens rules, they do what they must for their..white fathers.. as they call us and they are rewarded"

He continued after a pause..

"I have seen them countless times looting the bodys of enemys and tell them not to do so, it is not christian to act like that..but..they consider it payment for their services, we would not want to spark any agression with them of course.."

"Lt Dumas, you must see where i come from of course..it's horrible, my men are instructed to eliminate enemy troops before they fire on an officer, with the way the battles are faught here it is more difficult yes?"

Captian Webb replyed..

"If it was any of your buisness sir, i would be sure to inform you.."

Major Munroe spoke in Lt.Dumas's defence,

"Captian!"

Webb spoke,

"I apoligize sir, but i had to point of that fact..my rudeness was unnessasary.."

"What were you doing Webb?" Lt.Dumas said in a more demanding voice. "I want them to stop stealing from the dead. I want my men to have the honor to be buried with some honor. Also they steal watchs and gift from love ones. I guess so, but that doesn't mean all your officers are not going to escape without a wound."

"I want all those who steal from the dead stopped." said Orlean sternly.

"Captain what's her name!" Charles pointed toward Halona. "You are her aren't you? I was at the village one month ago and she ran away."

The doctor came over and replyed to the Frenchman in his native tounge,

"Colonel Crossley calls her Halona Private? may i inquire as to what is going on?"

___________________________________________________

Captian Webb stood up raising his voice,

"This is absurd Leiutennet! When you adress an officer in parlay you use his rank and or name and rank!"

Colonel Crossley gestured Webb to sit down,

"Captian, another outburst like that again and you will be dismissed..is that understood? ..please..tell the Lt what you were doing..."

Captian Webb replyed,

"I was using the head sir, sence when does an officer in the British army answear to a fro..-"

"CAPTAIN! you are dismissed!" Crossley shouted...

Major Munroe looked shocked as did the other two British Leiutennets...

Captian Webb stood up, he bowed and left the room..

"Now..let us continue...is there any manner of buisness on which you would like to discuss sirs?"

Colonel Crossley asked the Frenchman, when they had replyed with their request for the natives to stop stealing from the dead he replyed,

"When i can control it, it will be done...all of them shall be informed, your natives do it aswell..please speak to them on that note if you could.."

"We haven't seen any of our native allies expect a few band of them wandering the forest. So we cannot do that much. Also my sorry that I didn't call Captain Webb by his rank or name and rank. I haven't ever been to a parlay before. Also there is the matter with O'Reilly since he is not really under a French command." Lt.Dumas stated.

Charles said back in English. "Thank you doctor. I just wanted to know her name since she loooked famliar. Also Doctor can you leave so I can have a word with Halona. He looked at Halona. "So you lied to me? I wasn't going to go back and tell the cheif. I knew I could remember such a beautiful face as yours."

Colonel Orlean said, "O'Reilly was in one of the Irish brigades, int he service of France. Commissioend a French officer, most likely, however, did not act like one, from what I heard. Where are you keeping your prisoners, byt he way?"

Colonel Crossley replied,

"That is fine Lt, tentions rise at some points easily forgotten.."

He continued..

"My prisoners are kept within the walls in cells Colonel, they are being treated well of course..in time they will be transfered to Camden in England, As for this O'Reily fellow..i havn't had the pleasure to meet him although there was a situation that was brought to my attention earlier today.."

Major Munroe leaned over and wispered in Crossleys ear,

"Ahh, yes..A French prisoner by the name of Pierre informed us he shoots British prisoners of war? can this be varrifyed?"

_______________________________

The doctor left the room with Halona and Charles....

"Well the prisoners every be released? Also O'Reilly I hope he stays there forever." Lt.Dumas stated.

After the doctor left Halona scofft at the french man's remark, "Yes, my name is Halona, what do you want? As for my lying to you, I don't tell strangers my name."

"I remembered you Halona. I meet you about two months ago. I'm Charles do you remember. I do. I had a wonderful time with you." Charles admitted.

Halona thought a moment, "I do not remember you; anything else?"

"No thats it." Charles said. He looked at Halona then went back to sleep.

Halona gave no reply as she left the room, letting the door slam as she did so; she not caring if it awoke him or not. The native woman was worried, worried that Charles would give her away to the british which would not be good. She walked outside, and saw more of the french men around, so she went back inside and towards her own quarters to avoid the men.

Colonel Crossley replyed to the French officers question,

"When the war is over i would imagine all prisoners will be released, untill then they will be held in English custody....it is horrible really, they shall not see their familys for a long time.."

Crossley looked around the room and continued..

"I have five Irish prisoners and two French here, over time they will be sent to Camden..as for O'Reily ...if he shot British prisoners will of course be executed by hanging or firing squad but at the moment we cannot prove anything without evidence..i do not kill men with lack of evidence towards them"

"I will not see everything i stand for as a solider and human being go to hell because of this place!, I will do my dutys to the best of my ability repersenting her Majesty the Queen in the process..we all have a job to do gentleman lets do it with pride and honor, there is no need to act like heathens..."

Reallydrunk']Colonel Crossley replyed to the French officers question,

"When the war is over i would imagine all prisoners will be released, untill then they will be held in English custody....it is horrible really, they shall not see their familys for a long time.."

Crossley looked around the room and continued..

"I have five Irish prisoners and two French here, over time they will be sent to Camden..as for O'Reily ...if he shot British prisoners will of course be executed by hanging or firing squad but at the moment we cannot prove anything without evidence..i do not kill men with lack of evidence towards them"

"I will not see everything i stand for as a solider and human being go to hell because of this place!, I will do my dutys to the best of my ability repersenting her Majesty the Queen in the process..we all have a job to do gentleman lets do it with pride and honor, there is no need to act like heathens..."

"That O'Reilly. He was about to shoot Sgt.White before I stopped him. Also he mistreated the prisoners. If he is released he shall face a court martial and most likely be hanged for disobeying a officers orders." Lt.Dumas stated.

"In view of the tensions that evidently exist, would I be able to assist with mediation, or acting as an escrow?"
(OOC: Trusted third party...so if you exchange prisoners or...well, anything...you hand it to Nomara, he then hands it over to the other side when certain conditions are met.)
"After all I have performed such services beforehand, and am not yet employed by either party."
His eyes flashed; there was potential here, whether the British and French could see it or not.

OOC: Third Party is going to do that much. I really don't plan on handing over any prisoners or for that matter anything.

OOC: For one thing, Orlean might decide rather than you; for another it keeps him involved.

Halona still waited in her room, unsure of what to do. She had an idea of where William was, however risked being seen by any of the french men as they could give her secret away. William knew, however that was all and that was because Halona trusted him to know. William was different from the others thus far, however she would rather be damned to hell than face the french and especially her tribe again.

"That O'Reilly. He was about to shoot Sgt.White before I stopped him. Also he mistreated the prisoners. If he is released he shall face a court martial and most likely be hanged for disobeying a officers orders." Lt.Dumas stated.

Colonel Crossley replyed,

"No prisoners in my custody will be realsed Lt, by order of her majesty queen Anne"

"Mr.Nomara we are quite capible of handing our own matters sir, with no disrespect of course...if it comes to it we will find a way to contact you, i would imagine you will not be that hard to reach? what are your intentions here if i may inquire?"

"I know, but I assure you that Captain O'Reilly has killed British POW's. I demand that he be hanged or shot." Lt.Dumas stated. O'Reilly had to be taken care of soon.

"I know, but I assure you that Captain O'Reilly has killed British POW's. I demand that he be hanged or shot." Lt.Dumas stated. O'Reilly had to be taken care of soon.

Colonel Crossley considered the request and looked to Major Munroe,

"Major?"

Major Munroe replyed to Crossley,

"Ahh, well Colonel...if it is known that the Irishman shot our troops sir, id have to say Aye to em' bein shot sir..thats my opinion on the matter.."

Crossley looked to the two infantry Leiutennets who also nodded, Crossley then spoke..

"Well, he has been condemed gentleman..manner which he will die will be death by firing squad...there you have it Leiutennet Dumas.."

"He is..after all a French commissioned officer..party your decision on what becomes of him, therefore i offer my support..but it does not bring back my countrymen Leiutennet.."

The British Colonel's men all wanted the prisoner to be shot, Crossley himself did not like the whole idea of it but set aside his principals in order to grant the French satisfaction on the matter...

He sat there stone faced thinking about the man who had just been condemed to death...

"Thank Colonel Crossley. Sorry Colonel Crossely I have special orders from one of my generals to bring the prisoners back to Canada. I believe thats all I have to discuss and that mean Col.Orlean and I will be leaving. Unless Col.Orlean has something else to discuss." Lt.Dumas said.

"Thank Colonel Crossley. Sorry Colonel Crossely I have special orders from one of my generals to bring the prisoners back to Canada. I believe that all I have to discuss and that mean Col.Orlean and I will be leaving. Unless Col.Orlean has something else to discuss." Lt.Dumas said.

Colonel Crossley shook his head then replyed,

"Which general? Montclaim?"

"You want him shot Leiutennet? i ask you to stay and watch it...Leiutennet Wesley fetch the prisoner.."

The British officer stood up and left the room after giving a slight bow,

"Major Munroe, gather a firing squad...six men.."

Major Munroe stood up and left the room aswell,

"Right this way gentleman..."