Kink Meme - Assassin's Creed pt. 5

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Assassin's Creed Kink Meme pt.5
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In Pursuit of Happiness 41

[(Anonymous)]

Aaaannnnndddddd Charles levels up. By like, a bajillion levels. :)


In Pursuit of Happiness

Chapter 41 - Gauntlet


He wanted to deny it. Washington was despicable. Not only was he a completely inept excuse of an Alpha (though he was careful not to think about the Assassin that ended his life in the past), he was also a disgusting man.

A disgusting man with an amiable mask and that continuously fooled almost every single person he came into contact with. The Sons of Liberty, Israel Putnam, the other general all thought of him as some grand savior. Some perfect being who stood above all the rest and could do no wrong. They covered for him when his military record should have gotten him relieved from his responsibilities, and it was absolutely infuriating that the council would not appoint someone else as commander-in-chief. Even Master Kenway was somewhat taken in by Washington.

Charles’s mentor believed the man to be incapable but mostly harmless. A man with good intentions and decent morals but without the knowhow to implement any of them.

Washington was anything but. Charles knew of what Washington’s plans before he would have married Connor. He knew what the man was really like.

Weak, and not just in military strength. The man had claimed to love Connor and respect all peoples, but his actions proved differently.

He owned slaves, even though he agreed that slavery was abominable. But he was loathe to free them because he grew too used to his own comfort and the wealth his plantation amassed him.

He had plans in the making to forcefully contain any Native village that did not side with the patriots. Charles knew that Connor’s village was one of the ones being surveyed. As with last time, Washington justified the measures as necessary to win the war. Charles knew that he was only doing so because he did not know any other means of treating with them and did not care to learn.

And up until the day Connor died, Connor had believed Charles to be the one responsible for the burning of his village. He’d believe Charles was the one to kill his mother. Washington had never divulged that secret, not even as Connor was about to marry him. And now Charles knew why. It was the same reason he owned slaves, the same reason he found it easier to spy on Connor’s village and possibly attack them while still making use of Connor’s abilities and wooing the Omega.

Not evil, no.

But cowardice. Convenience.

And Charles was no different.

Hadn’t he hesitated to tell Connor about Washington’s ruthless past because it was not convenient for him to lose Connor’s trust at that point? And he had not divulged his own role in Connor’s life. He had not spoken to Connor of that earlier life, of the man he used to be.

Was that not cowardice in its purest form?

He was not that same man as before. He was more thoughtful now, more appreciative of choice and people different than himself and Connor.

But in this way, he was still the same. And thus, the same as the very man he despised above all else.

“I’m the same as you,” he whispered, loathing in his voice.

Washington looked affronted.

“We are nothing alike. Nothing. I may have not told Connor about my regrettable actions, but it never came up before. There was no reason to, not when we needed his skill on our side. And I would have told him. Sooner or later.”

He probably even believed it too. Charles glared at him, but only halfheartedly. He was too shaken to put much force behind it.

“You had no right to tell him so early and jeopardize the Patriot cause. If it weren’t for the fact that I know you did not have any intention of aiding the crown, I would draw you up on charges of treason.”

Treason? The only one he’d aided was Connor, and they were not at war with Connor.

“Do not be ridiculous,” he snapped. “My actions did not aid the crown in anyway. Connor is still fighting by our side, just not with you specifically anymore. Those charges would never work with the council, and you know it.”

“It could have,” Washington pressed. “We could have lost him and—“

At least here, Charles was different than Washington. At least here, the self he was now understand what Washington did not. He could take comfort in that.

“One man, no matter how capable, is not responsible for winning the war for you, commander. And we owe that one man for all he’s already done for us. We owed him the truth.”

“Do not pretend that you told him out of some feeling of owing him the truth,” Washington roared. “You want him for yourself, and you seek to destroy what I had with him to do so!”

Charles flinched.

That enough was true.

“I know I was selfish. I acknowledge it.” He lifted his chin stubbornly, defiantly. “But that means I can do better in the future. That means I can learn and make amends for what I’ve done—“ in more ways than one and for more things than he’d ever thought about “—and honestly win Connor.”

Strange how the thought served to exhilarate him instead of frustrate him. Any other Omega, Charles would not have bothered.

Omegas needed Alphas in a way that Alphas didn’t really need Omegas. It was looked down upon for an Omega to become a spinster, considered repugnant for an Omega to make his or her way through life without having a family. And while male Omegas did have more leeway than their female counterparts, the expectation still lay there. And the result of that was that Omegas were, frankly, more desperate to find a spouse and to have children.

Connor was different. Connor did not heed those same calls and was perfectly fine without an Alpha. And that meant that it was Charles’s onus to win him, to prove himself.

Charles thought about Connor racing into battle and defeating their enemies. He thought of Connor shouting out orders that all men, Alphas and Omegas, heeded. He thought of Israel Putnam describing the strategic mind that had helped turn the tide of their most recent battle with the crown. He thought of how even Thomas Hickey, rascally lout that he was, said that Connor was “not so bad, fine bloke and Kenway should be glad of in a son” and how Biddle declared him to be a “peculiarly dangerous and awe-inspiring man.”

He thought about how this Connor was so much livelier and desirable than the Connor he had destroyed.

That very independence and competence that made it necessary for Charles to work harder also made Connor worth the effort.

He looked Washington in the eye, challenging the other Alpha.

“Can you say the same?”

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 41

[(Anonymous)]

Wow... Wow... Wow... You weren't kidding about Charles finally leveling up! He's changed so much he's changed. I love it! I also love the Connor feedback from Putnam and the Templars, wow Hickey... Then again Connor had saved his life. Dying to know if George will persist to win back Connors affection or back off.

Curious, what year is it? I remember Achilles dies between 1780-1781 Connor is going to need emotional support :(

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 41

[(Anonymous)]

It's before the Battle of Monmouth, which was in 1778. I shifted the timeline of hunting Church a bit (that all happened within months instead of over a fully ear). So we're getting pretty close to Battle of Monmouth time. So still a couple of years before Achilles dies, but it's soon. ):

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 41

[(Anonymous)]

Your comment at the beginning made me crack up with laughter.

*claps* Bravo, Charles, bravo. I'm proud of you, son. Hahaha. Very good chapter, anon, I'm just burning to see Connor on stage once more...

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 41

[(Anonymous)]

Connor will make an appearance soon. Not to worry. :) And glad you like the note. We are all gamers, after all, so I thought it would be appropriate. :D

In Pursuit of Happiness 42

[(Anonymous)]

In Pursuit of Happiness

Chapter 42 - Monmouth


“Ready the cannonballs!” Charles hollered, staring grimly at the marching band of red-clothed men.

Damn Washington. Damn him for putting Charles in charge of this battle.

One of his men lit the fuse and the cannonball went sailing directly into a regiment of the crown’s troops. The attack took out many of them, but Charles could already see more troops following them behind. And while he could pick them off with his cannon, he only had one cannon and would likely run out of cannonballs before the crown ran out of troops.

Charles cursed.

“We’re almost out of cannonballs, sir,” said one of his officers from his place by the cannon. William Hays, Charles remembered. “We won’t be able to hold them back for much longer.”

Damn.

Charles looked over at the redcoats closing in on them. He considered his options. He could retreat. Order his men to back away and leave while they were still able to. Let the French Marquis deal with this battle.

If he retreated now, it would be devastating for the war. The crown would march on New York as planned, and they might take the city. The French Marquis and all of his men would likely die unless they, too, retreated.

Charles spared a look for the man and noticed that he was busy shouting orders to his own men, frenetically organizing his troops in a way to contain the vastly superior force of the crown.

Charles chewed his lip. It was so, so tempting to leave and retreat.

Let M. Lafayette deal with everything.

But...

Charles did not despise the French Marquis like he despised Washington. The Alpha was intelligent, accomplished for his young age and full of promise. And Connor liked the man. He chose to help Lafayette more than any other general around and...

Charles heaved a sigh.

“Continue loading,” he ordered William. “We cannot allow them to reach New York. We stay and fight.”

“Yessir.”

He looked around searching for a runner.

“You,” he snapped.

A young Alpha made his way hesitantly to him. Charles whipped out a parchment and a quill and quickly scribbled something on the parchment.

“Give this to Commander Washington.” He handed the hastily scribbled missive over. “We are in dire need of troops, and I would have his command join ours.”

The words tasted bitter on his lips, but he knew that he could not turn aside this force alone. As repugnant as the notion was, he would need Washington’s help.

The things he did for Connor.

----

A stray bullet hit his cannon-loader, and the man went unconscious.

Bugger.

“Sir, we need the cannon-fire!” yelled one of his other men, busy picking off the remaining enemy troops.

Charles knew that. But he didn’t have anyone else to spare. Every one of their positions was crucial right now, and if he shuffled them around...

Charles felt like laughing suddenly. Was this how he was to die? Was this Washington’s revenge on him?

He had another thought and looked down at the pendant still around his throat.

Or was it that woman in white, determined to keep him away from Connor? And what better way than to make sure he died?

He growled at the thought. Let the woman do as she will. He would not give up on Connor. He would fight until he won him over, even if it took their entire life.

He turned to take hold of the cannon himself...and stopped.

And stared.

“General Lee,” the woman reloading the cannon addressed him. “I will take my husband’s place.”

Charles blinked.

An Omega woman. Loading a cannon. While the crown marched on them.

He smiled then, a mad smile that threatened to suffuse his whole body in ironic and glee. A strange proposition given the army marching on them, but he could not help it.

“Your name?” he asked, determined to confer upon the woman a rank if they all survived.

“Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley, sir.”

“Well, Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley. Welcome to my command.”

“Delighted sir.”

And with that, she sent another cannonball flying.

Charles watched as a slew of enemy troops fell.

----

Despite all their best efforts, they were still losing.

Charles was beginning to despair that Washington’s support would ever come.

And why should he? It was the perfect way to rid himself of a rival, the perfect way to revenge himself upon Charles for letting Connor know of his part in Connor’s past. All without incriminating himself.

Is this what Washington meant when he said he would win Connor back? Did he mean so by treachery?

“We’re out of cannonballs sir,” Mary called from next to him.

He spared a look at her.

Brave Omega, just like Connor. As proud and free, too. Willing to die for loved ones and a cause greater than oneself.

He would be sad to die without seeing Connor again.

“Go,” he ordered her. “Take two of my men to help carry your husband out. I would not have you sacrifice your life for this futile hope.”

She looked sternly at him. “With all due respect, sir, I could not do so. I am a loyal Patriot. I fight so that my family will have choices. I fight so that my friends will have freedom. I would die for it.”

And Charles...

Charles could not breathe.

He saw in his mind, again and again and again, Connor willingly walking towards death. He hadn’t understood then. He’d blamed it on Washington.

But...

Connor had always been grasping for choice, for freedom. And he’d only taken his life when it became clear that Charles would never have allowed him any.

If...

If Connor never wanted him, did Charles ever have the ability to let him go?

The woman in white was one thing. Charles would never give her the satisfaction of bending to her will. And Washington was another. He would not bow to that insipid Alpha.

But if Connor asked it of Charles himself...?

A body crashed into him. A bullet whizzed by his head.

“Well, that was a close one.”

Charles looked up to see Connor, beautiful, fierce, determined Connor, staring at him.

“I brought reinforcements.”

Charles looked and saw Washington and his regiment.

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 42

[(Anonymous)]

Squeee! Loved this chapter, so glad Charles didn't abandon his post and was prepared to fight to the last man in order to defend New York. Nice tie in with the historical reference of Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley loading the cannons in place for her wounded husband, and how her words were just another eye-opener for Charles.

Of course the end with Connor showing up to save Charles (btw, how did his conversation with Washington even end?) <3 I'm sure Washington is all bitter to come to Charles' aid, but doubt he could turn a request from Connor down.

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 42

[(Anonymous)]

Hehe. :) Washington didn't back down. He didn't say yea or nay, but he said that he would win Connor.

I thought Molly Pitcher was a super awesome person, so I couldn't help but include her. :)

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 42

[(Anonymous)]

*claps slowly*

Charles stepped up a notch. Again. The character development here is inspiring. And so are Mary's words - you deserve a medal for including her. Damn, this fill gives me so.many.feels. Can't wait for more.

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 42

[(Anonymous)]

Thanks anon! Mary's the epitome of awesomeness. :D And I just had a feeling that someone who took her husband's place at the cannon would say something like that to Charles. :D

In Pursuit of Happiness 43

[(Anonymous)]

In Pursuit of Happiness

Chapter 43 - Yes


Washington.

Charles stared.

The man was actually here. He hadn’t really expected him to come.

He stared some more.

As if sensing his gaze upon him, Washington turned to look him. Those normally congenial blue eyes seemed somehow bitter, but not at Charles. No, this air of displeasure was directed inward, and Charles wondered just what had happened to bring the man to this pass.

Or, for that matter, what brought the man to Charles’s side, here and now.

To his surprise, he watched as those pale blue eyes lowered, and Washington, his hated rival, nodded to him.

Connor must have seen his blank uncomprehending stare because he laid a gentle hand on Charles’s arm and steered him toward the battlefield once more where, Charles was gratified to see, Washington’s men had engaged with the crown’s forces.

They had a chance after all. But how?

“Commander Washington had some—reservations—about the strategy of joining his troops with yours for this when he received your message.”

And yet the man was still here. His presence probably saved Charles life even.

“I might have advised him to change his mind.”

Charles turned to look at the Omega.

“You may have saved my life, then,” he murmured, unsure of what to think.

Those amber-brown eyes turned to him, searching out his own.

“I know,” the Omega whispered back.

“Does this...” he began, not quite hoping for more, not quite daring to hope.

“The war has need of you, Charles Lee. It took me a long while to realize this, but you are a fine strategist and tactician, and it would be remiss of me to let this grudge between you and the commander deprive the continental army of one of its beloved generals.”

Oh.

Charles wasn’t sure what he could say to that, so he stayed silent, turning his attention back to the swarm of men in blue uniforms engaging the men in red.

“I will join the troops and do my part.” And before Charles could say even a word, the elusive white-clad figure that haunted his dreams slipped away.

He tried to ignore the ache in his chest, and thought about that question he had been considering before Connor appeared.

Could he give Connor up?

If Connor asked, could he give Connor up?

He shivered and drew his coat closer around him.

“You should rest, Charles,” came a weary voice from behind him.

He glanced over to see Washington, somehow looking older than he had ever before. And tired.

Just like him.

“I cannot,” he replied. “Resting while Connor risks his life...”

Washington shook his head.

“You will do no good strung out as you are after your earlier travails.”

Charles snorted.

“You hardly look better.”

Washington bristled at that, but then deflated just as quickly.

“Suit yourself.” He turned to leave.

“Wait,” Charles called out.

Washington did not stop.

“Why are you here?”

Washington did not answer.

“Why would you come to my aid, when my death could only help you?”

Washington stopped at that. Stopped still, his back facing Charles.

Still, he did not answer.

In that silence, Charles persisted. “Why?”

If it came out a little more hoarse, a little more raw than he had intended...well, he had just finished an entire afternoon of yelling at his troops and commanding men. He could not be blamed for it.

“I do not owe anything to you,” was his answer.

Charles nearly snarled in frustration. “But you owe something to Connor! You owe everything to Connor.”

That back stiffened, then relaxed. Its owner resumed his walk away from Charles.

“Not anymore.”

Charles, about to follow, stopped in his tracks, his eyes wide.

Did that...

Before he could collect his thoughts, Washington had begun directing his share of the battle.

----

Charles felt a burning pain embed itself into his leg. Cursing, he staggered to his knees, gripping his leg as blood rushed out.

That was right idiotic of him.

He looked around but saw that no one had recognized his plight. The crown was stronger than they all thought, and Washington was still shouting orders, changing his strategy as more news came in. They were still holding their ground, but barely. They had made a significant decent in the crown’s forces, but it was not quite enough yet to ensure that they could not successfully march on New York.

And if it was not enough, then it would have all been for nothing.

He looked over for the courageous woman who had manned his cannons earlier and was heartened to see her still on the battlefield, bringing pitchers of cold and much needed water for the thirsty and overheated troops.

He would have her remembered. Remembered and ranked. Practical, courageous and resilient. Was there ever another Omega like that?

A speck of white in his peripheral vision caught his eye, and he turned his head to see Connor whirling about the battlefield, leaving destruction and mayhem in his wake.

Yes, there was.

He just didn’t know if he would ever have him.

The pain flared again, and Charles glared at the bullet wound in his thigh.

Bloody inconsiderate of the crown, to inconvenience him so. It had probably been a stray bullet, but it certainly did its damage.

Grimacing, he undid his coat and began tearing off strips of his inner shirt. It had grazed him, the wound only needed bandaging. He winced as the pressure spiked another burst of pain.

He bore it though, and tightly wrapped the strips of cloth about his thigh, sealing the wound. It was painful, but necessary.

Open wounds could not heal without being bound and treated, no matter how much pain needed to be endured first.

He looked up again at Connor, only to see that the white-clad form had disappeared off the battlefield.

Pity.

He loved seeing Connor in action, displaying all his unique capabilities.

----

A yelling as one of the crown’s soldiers broke felled one of Washington’s men and made his way toward Charles.

Charles made to grab his sword and face the man, but the ache in his leg reminded him of his injury. Nonetheless, he closed his hand around his only means of defense and prepared himself to face the onslaught.

He met the first strike as it came at him from above, then turned the second as the Alpha sought to impale him. He did well enough on the next few maneuvers, caught as he was, by his bad leg, but he soon found that his luck ran dry.

The force behind the blows soon wrenched the blade from his nerveless fingers, and he stared at the man grimly, seeing his death in the enemy soldier’s face.

Doubtless, he would be killed but...

Well, at least he would have tried his best.

And that was something. That thought was comforting.

And he was dying on his terms. Not because Washington was avenging Connor, not because the woman in white had decided to remove him permanently, but because he was, even now, still reaching towards that goal that he wanted.

He watched the sword move towards him, seeking to end his life.

Would he give up Connor if Connor asked? Would he?

He closed his eyes.

Yes.

When no sword pierced him, when he breathed still, he hesitantly opened his eyes again.

The sword was frozen an inch from his face, a green force suspending the fine steel.

“Perhaps you are not as useless as I had thought you would be.”

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 43

[(Anonymous)]

Wow, I knew Connor had something to do with Washington showing up to help Charles, and I wonder if Connor has told Washington either he has no chance or that he's already chosen Charles, otherwise I can't imagine Washington's unexpected concern when he tells Charles to rest if not for Connor.

Then of course the end with Juno saving Charles' life. Either she realizes Connor's choice and/or Charles finally willing to let Connor go if he asked.

Poor Charles keeps getting injured in this story, hope Connor will nurse him back to health again :D

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 43

[(Anonymous)]

:) Washington won't tell, hehe. But, imo, Connor gave him a piece of his mind about putting his own personal concerns over that of the war and made it clear that there could be no them.

Yeah...I like injuring Charles. :)

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 43

[(Anonymous)]

Awww poor Wash /pets Washington/ at least he had his happy ending in Strange Fates

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 43

[(Anonymous)]

Fuck, I'm in love with this fill. Everything's just so damn amazing.

And you really sparked my curiosity with that interaction between Washington and Charles, I wonder what words influenced Washington so. I also wonder what made a shift in Juno's decision, Connor's (possible) choice or Charles' burgeoning character development...

So afraid to say I can't wait for more since every new step is closer to the end of this wonderful story ;___;

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 43

[(Anonymous)]

Thanks anon! :)

The words between Washington and Connor are, unfortunately, between them (mostly 'cause I'm too lazy to write them out), but it does herald a change. :)

In Pursuit of Happiness 44

[(Anonymous)]

In Pursuit of Happiness

Chapter 44 - Choice


The world around Charles froze, and Charles gasped as the woman in white materialized before him.

“What are you here?” Charles asked.

The woman smiled.

“I have one last task for you.”

Charles spat at her. “Surely you do not expect my aid now. Now when you all but barred me from that which I desire the most.”

The woman smiled.

“Ah, but it no little difference in the end, I am sure that even you can see that. My descendant will do as he pleases, as he is wont to, and my will has no bearing on his choices.” She frowned. “Unfortunately.”

“I still do not see why this indentures me into your service.”

A dark eyebrow lifted.

“Do you not? Do you truly not?”

“No.”

Her frown deepened.

“Without my powers, you would not be alive right now. Your son would have happened upon your killer even as you lay dead on the ground. He would have alerted the servants, but you were already dead. Your passing would have led to pain and misery for your son. He would have been shunted aside from power, though all attempts to kill him would have failed. At 16, he would track down your killer and kill him, not realizing that the commander of men was his unknown protector. The new nation would erupt into civil war, with one faction claiming him as their figurehead, and the government in power would execute him to protect their own power.”

Charles glared at her.

“And you want me to thank you? For the fact that my child will now never be born?”

She tilted her head at him. The action seemed almost curious.

“Whether your child will be born is your own doing. But it would not have been possible if not for my intervention, twice now.”

He nodded, grim.

“And yet I did not ask for this. A gift you may have given me, but it is a poisoned gift, for my understanding now would separate me from that which I desire.”

“And yet,” she pressed, “can you not say that you would be truly content as you were? Now that you understand the folly of your actions on one such as my descendant, can you not see that all paths lead to the same result, regardless of which you turned onto?”

Yes.

His Connor was not one that could survive wholly caged. And if he asked, then Charles would let him be.

“What is it you want from me?” he whispered.

The woman looked away for a moment.

“The artifact you possess is not intended for you, nor for anyone of this time. It is destined for he in the future, and I would have you secure it away from both my descendant’s Brotherhood and your Order. In two of your human year’s time, give the artifact to him and have him conceal in a place no one else will look.”

Charles frowned.

“We humans eventually find everything. There is no place truly safe.”

She shook her head.

“He will know, in two years time. You need not concern yourself on this account. And—“

She paused, looking slyly at him.

“—you are not so useless as I had thought. My descendant will do as he will, but I care not who he entangles with, save the commander of men. And that is completely broken now.”

Charles started. “Is that—“

“My descendant was not pleased with the man’s inclinations prior to their arrival on your battlefield. Though I do believe his rejection is changing the commander of men even as his rejection of you changed you.”

Charles grit his teeth at the unwelcome reminder and the stark image of Connor’s bleeding body on the floor. Would he never see that again.

Suddenly, her words caught up with him, and he looked up in shock.

“Do you—“

“I care not who he entangles with, save one.”

And that one was not Charles.

He turned wide eyes towards the phantom.

“Now, after I’ve decided to leave him be if he so chooses...”

“Because you cannot damage him anymore. Your travails have thought you enough. I have seen the future, all the possible futures, and my line will live on.”

Charles looked hesitantly at her.

“With me?”

She looked at him, eyes blank.

“There are many futures, and I cannot say which will dominate.”

Oh.

“My descendant’s choice is still open, and it is up to him.”

And so it was.

So it was.

He closed his eyes, imagining his beautiful Omega.

----

“Charles?”

Charles jolted awake to see Connor leaning over him, washcloth in hand.

“I do not know how you manage to get yourself in trouble when you were not even fighting. But you’ve broken your fever.”

Fever?

Charles looked around and noted he was in his own quarters. In Boston.

He sat up, then swayed as vertigo overtook him.

“It is not wise to move so suddenly after you have been so ill,” the young Omega admonished.

Charles grasped a hold of Connor’s hand, clutching at those cool fingers.

“What am I doing here? How...”

Connor carefully pried his hands off him and continued dabbing his forehead.

“You were wounded by that redcoat who rushed at you. I managed to kill him before he could take your life, but he had already knocked you about and wounded you.”

His voice lowered.

“It was a close call, but as the army is recuperating outside of Boston, I convinced the commander to give you leave to recover at your own house.”

So that was why...

“And, the battle?” Charles asked, almost afraid of the answer.

He was not reassured by the grim look that Connor wore.

“Heavy losses on both sides, but we managed to hold them off. They will recoup and come at us again, but we bought valuable time for New York to remain safe.”

They did not lost the war.

Thank God.

Charles felt himself drifting off again, now that his concerns were allayed.

“Charles.”

“Hm?” He murmured, half-asleep.

A sigh.

“I promised you a joint mission. Before.”

“So you did.”

But then Charles had messed up. And ruined it all.

He was tired.

Right before he fell asleep...

“I look forward to our joint mission.”

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 44

[(Anonymous)]

Wow, it's chilling to know what has happened in the other time line between Haytham Lee and Washington, even though I sort of predicted it. But yay, so Juno has more or less given Charles the green light to pursue Connor and no longer has Washington as a rival /pets Washington/ and now has another chance with Connor since they'll have a joint mission... never mind that Charles does get wounded a lot (but then again he's not superhuman like Connor and Haytham are).

So Charles is back home in Boston, wonder how the servants will react to the sight of their master and Connor bonding and hopefully becoming lovers this time around.

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 44

[(Anonymous)]

wonder how the servants will react to the sight of their master and Connor bonding and hopefully becoming lovers this time around.

The servants are intrigued by this Omega who is being attentive to Charles. :)

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 44

[(Anonymous)]

Interesting, so is the only reason they disliked Connor so much in the other timeline was because of how he was rude and disrespectful of their master?

In Pursuit of Happiness 45

[(Anonymous)]

Okay, close to finishing now. :)


In Pursuit of Happiness

Chapter 45 - Something New


Connor watched as the Alpha slept.

The man—Charles—was such a complicated man, and Connor really did not know what he thought of him.

He thought back to the way Charles Lee had kept the identity of the man who ordered his village’s burning a secret. He thought back to how that man had stayed silent aboard the Aquila, on Connor’s very own ship, and thought to stay his mouth. It was maddening, to think that he had played unwitting host and had apparently been thought so little of that such an important secret would be withheld.

His hands clenched.

He was not pleased with that. Not at all.

But...

He reached up to dab at a sweaty brow. Charles Lee was still fighting off the last of his fever, and it was important that he did not relapse into illness.

Once the sweat was cleaned off, he sat back and considered the man, the Alpha.

The man had saved his life so long ago. Saved his life and then professed his...attraction.

Attraction that caused him to search out Connor every time he had appeared to help, those blue eyes tracking him silently.

And in all of those times that Connor showed up to help another General, another Colonel, another soldier, Charles Lee did not approach him. And that, out of everything else...

It was mind-boggling. That a man who had so disregarded his perspective could put so much effort into it now. The man had professed to desire him, and with the way he watched Connor, Connor believed it.

That man also stayed away from him as per his wishes and gave him his much required time to think. He stared, but did not touch. He stared, but did not do so disrespectfully. He stared, but never for too long, always mindful of Connor’s reputation.

And Connor could not deny that he was impressed.

An Alpha who could give him the space he asked for, that respected his decision enough for it...

That was a man Connor could forgive. That was an Alpha that Connor would admire.

Another bead of sweat rolled down Charles Lee’s forehead.

Connor dabbed once more at the drop, careful not to jar the still healing man.

“You need to wake up and get better soon, Charles Lee,” he whispered. “I would that we begin our mission soon.”

He would know this intriguing man better.

----

Charles woke up with a start, looking about with wide eyes.

He dreamt that they had repelled the crown, and that he’d been wounded, and Connor had come. Had been by his side and spoken to him and agreed to go on a mission with him and that—that...

He caught sight of a familiar white-clad form slumbering peacefully by his bedside, and his mouth went dry.

He reached out a trembling hand, almost afraid to touch the apparition.

When his fingers met with cloth, he jerked them back in surprise.

It was real. Connor was real. Connor was actually here.

His dream was real.

And that meant...

“We,” he whispered to himself. “We won?”

The softly spoken words seemed to rouse the Omega next to him and familiar amber-brown eyes blinked at him sleepily.

“Yes, we won.”

Charles still wasn’t sure whether he could believe that.

“We beat back the crown?”

Connor nodded, a small smile upon his lips.

“They cannot march on New York. Not unless they regroup their forces, which will take months at the least.”

“And by then,” Charles murmured, “we’ll have regrouped as well, ready to meet them again. And with better odds too.”

“Yes.”

Charles heaved a sigh of relief.

“Thank God.”

It was good to know that their efforts, the loss of so many lives, hadn’t been in vain.

Connor then looked at him with amusement.

“Stories of your valor have spread in the colonies. You have become even more popular than you were before.”

“Oh?”

But Charles did not really care for it. Popularity was fleeting, and he would much rather have sincerity and love. Particularly from one specific source.

What use was popularity to him?

The word seemed to spark something in him, for Charles felt like he was forgetting something. He frowned as he tried to grasp the fleeting thought.

What was it that he was forgetting?

It hit him abruptly, and he sat up, ignoring the pain that throbbed through him.

“Mary Ludwig Hays!” He cried. “Without her, I would not be here. I said I would confer upon her a rank for her courage!”

Connor held him firmly and gently pushed him back.

“And so you did.”

Charles turned uncomprehending eyes upon him.

“You would not stop babbling about the lady, even as you fell unconscious and into a fever. Upon further investigation of those of your command with you, the commander determined her heroism and awarded her a warrant as an officer, non-commissioned.”

Oh.

Well that was good.

He relaxed back into his bed.

“I suppose he would. He is maudlin like that.”

Connor chuckled at that.

“Do not pretend you would not have done the same were you in his position.”

“Confer rank and honors on the woman responsible for a most hated rival’s continued existence? Celebrate the woman who kept alive the Alpha barring me from an Omega I desire?”

Connor froze at that. But only briefly.

“Yes.”

Charles thought about that. He really did. He smirked.

“I don’t know.”

He turned to look directly at Connor, all traces of mirth gone from him.

“I do desire you. You did not believe me last time, but it has not changed.”

Those glorious amber-brown eyes met his.

“I know.”

Charles was almost afraid to ask.

“Do you—do I—would you ever...?”

Connor smiled.

“I do not know.”

Charles’s heart skipped a beat at that, unsure whether to leap in exuberance or fall in dismay.

“But,” Connor continued. “But I respect the man you are.”

And that...was enough.

For now.

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 45

[(Anonymous)]

Wow, anon I am amazed. Connor and Charles have really come so far... and the end is near??? I don't know whether to rejoice that Charles may have his future with Connor or be saddened that the story will end soon. Any idea how many parts that will be?

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 45

[(Anonymous)]

No idea actually. :) Mostly just following whatever comes to me, but I feel that dragging it on would do it a disservice at this point.

However, xover will happen after a short break after this. :)

Re: In Pursuit of Happiness 45

[(Anonymous)]

/bawls like a kid/

I'm happy that Charles got his chance, but I'm so sad the story is about to end. I love all these wonderful fills (and I never saw a request getting so many fills on a kinkmeme), but I have to confess this is my most favorite one. I'm going to miss it once it's over /sighs/ I loved that feeling of anticipation whenever I checked my mail, awaiting to see a new update, and it always made me grin like mad. /continues bawling/

In Pursuit of Happiness 46

[(Anonymous)]

In Pursuit of Happiness

Chapter 46 - Chesapeake


Connor grinned as their latest mission was successfully completed without a single problem. It felt exhilarating, to push back the crown and minimize casualties.

He looked through his spyglass and spotted the Randolph’s captain giving him a slight wave. He waved back and set the device down, perfectly content.

It still surprised him at times, just how well they worked with the Order. They did not agree on everything and oftentimes needed time and space to cool tempers. But they were quite a bit more similar than he had ever dared to dream. Even Achilles, the most suspicious of their motives, had come to agree that this alliance was the best thing that both organizations had seen.

Connor glanced out of the corner of his eye at the stately man standing by him. A great deal of their success was due to the efforts of that man.

Charles Lee had managed to bridge the differences between their two value systems and highlighted the benefits of both freedom and order. It amazed Connor every day.

This man that he so hated...turned out to be one of the greatest men he had ever met.

As if sensing his eyes on him, Charles turned to smile at Connor.

Connor’s heart fluttered, and he looked away, a pale blush upon his cheeks.

“We are successful,” he murmured, staring at the steering wheel in his hand.

Charles chuckled. “I thought I spotted Biddle waving at you there.”

Connor nodded.

“Thank you for asking him to join us. I do not know if we could have done so well without his help.”

Charles grunted.

“It is rather his duty as Admiral of the Navy. We ought to be thanking you for joining us.”

“It is strategically important to prevent Rear Admiral Graves from reaching Lieutenant General Cornwallis. We are all obligated to support Real Admiral de Grasse in this endeavor.”

Charles turned to look at him fully.

“As much as I am thankful to the French for their aid, I feel far more obligated to you.”

Connor blushed.

“I—“

“But you are correct. It is vitally important to keep Graves from connecting with Cornwallis’s troops and giving the crown’s ground forces a way to exit from our blockade. We are indebted to the French for their greater resources in this area and their ability to vastly buttress our naval endeavors. Biddle is doing his best, but we would not be nearly as successful as we are without the French.”

Connor nodded.

“And we would not nearly be successful we are, on both the naval affairs and the army affairs, without you.”

Connor was left speechless again.

“I—“

“And that is why I am afraid to be doing what I must do, what I know is right to do.”

“Charles?” Connor whispered, questioning.

Charles sighed heavily, looking troubled and uncomfortable.

“Connor, I am afraid to tell you what I must. Because I fear that this ease we have, this camaraderie...”

His voice lowered to a whisper.

“I fear that I will lose it. And not just for one year as what happened last time. I fear to lose you forever.”

Connor thought to the revelation of Washington’s betrayal and how devastating that was for him. It seemed so distant now, more than 4 years ago. And he had fallen out of love with Washington shortly into that time.

Why had he loved him so much?

Connor was not sure now.

He had been disappointed with how the man was considering not joining the Battle of Monmouth and disappointed in his rationalizations on his actions with Connor’s village.

And even though Washington was a better man now, more sensible of his own advantages and considering the plight of others with a more opened eye, Connor could not find it in himself to love him again.

But he had despised Charles for keeping that secret, even if it did not seem so great now.

Did Charles really have another such secret?

Connor almost did not want to hear it.

He did not want to despise Charles again. He did not want to lose Charles either.

“I—“

Charles looked away.

“I have told no one else this. But we have been on many missions over these couple of years, and I have come to know you well, better than even I thought I did before.”

He took a deep, shaky breath.

“I love you Connor. This sentiment that I had for you did not die. It has, instead, grown deeper. And I am terrified of losing you. I am terrified...”

Connor watched wide-eyed as Charles trailed off.

He wanted to comfort him, he wanted to tell Charles that he did not need to know, that he might be feeling the same way.

The words jumbled in his mouth and would not escape his lips. He felt awkward and as scared as Charles proclaimed.

“Charles...” was all he could say.

Charles smiled sadly.

“I must, though. I must because you deserve to know. You deserve to know how this all began and my role in it. You deserve to know of the person I truly am. My only request...”

He turned back to Connor.

“My only request is to be given time to be on land. I wish to savor this last moment on the Aquila with you. These last moments...”

He choked, and Connor tentatively put his arms around the man.

“Yes, Charles. Yes.”

For he was his comrade now. A partner, a leader, a...friend. And maybe more.

Connor would give him this and dread this secret that could make him despise this man.