Kink Meme - Assassin's Creed pt. 5

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Assassin's Creed Kink Meme pt.5
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✩ Comment anonymously with a character/pairing and a kink/prompt.

✩ Comment is filled by another anonymous with fanfiction/art/or any other appropriate medium.

✩ One request per post, but fill the request as much as you want.

✩ The fill/request doesn't necessarily need to be smut.

✩ Don't flame, if you have nothing good to say, don't say anything.

✩ Have a question? Feel free to PM me.

✩ Last, but not least: HAVE FUN!

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Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
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Discussion

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AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

In Sequence 10, Washington ignores Connor's order to not follow him, and with his troops, seize the Mohawk village where he finds the Apple of Eden. Upon contact, it brings out all of of Washington's darkest desires for control, war and conquest and he uses the power of the Apple to enslave his own soldiers and have them slaughter / drive out the Mohawks. Connor tries to stop him, but is knocked unconscious for a long period of time. When he wakes up, in chains, he's brought forward before the King.

Would really love to see a combination of the following:

* Washington x Connor (in that order)
* Throne sex in front of all of Washington's mindless soldiers
* Washington admitting that he's wanted to f*ck Connor the moment he laid eyes on him
* Templars and Assassins unite to save Connor to defeat Washington

Re: AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

Yes yes seconded!

Re: AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

THIRD!!Someone please make it happen!

Re: AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

Yes! This! A thousand times this!

Re: AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

OH PLEASE THIS!! *__* (I'm sorry Connor, but...I kind of need this now.)

Re: AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

I don't even like WashCon but I find this prompt insanely hot. Please, someone, fill!

Re: AU - DLC!Washington x Connor - noncon

[(Anonymous)]

That makes us two. Not a big fan of ConWash either but asdfghjkl; this prompt.

Possible writer anon?

[(Anonymous)]

New to the kinkmeme anon would like to give this prompt a try because of its sheer incredibleness.

OP

[(Anonymous)]

OP will love you forever

Welcome to the New Age - Part 1/???

[(Anonymous)]

So this will be part of the prologue leading up to the story, I hope my offering pleases you OP. I apologize for any mistakes I probably missed * leaves this here and goes back to their computer cave *
***
In all honesty, I should have seen that coming.

Just as he had made a promise to protect his village, Washington had made the same commitment to the men and women of the colonies. Still he didn’t quite expect the man to be right on his tail the whole time, trailing him like a ghost during his frantic panic to eliminate the Patriot messengers. All meaningless now. He had merely paused for a moment to catch his breath, the hysteria--that had entered his body at Haytham’s reveal of Washington’s plan to “neutralize” his village--deserted him quickly, leaving him slightly relieved but fearful nonetheless. That is until he felt the cold bite of a bayonet rest against the fragile skin of his neck. He should have realized the Commander wouldn’t sit by idly as he rode out to ruin his surprise attack. Yet he believed otherwise, hoping that Washington would allow him to put an end to this unnecessary bloodshed. Foolish.

“You must understand,” was the only explanation Connor was graced with as Washington moved beside him. The Commander seemed regretful, at least that’s what Connor assumed, when Washington looked away as one of the soldiers that rode with him tied Connor’s hands together.

“You cannot hold me, Commander!” Connor growled, tugging harshly at the ropes once the soldier had finished. Wishing spitefully to strike the Commander down with the tomahawk that had cut down so many of his British rivals. It feels strange, Connor had thought, to loathe a man I used to hold in so high regard, even having once wished to be as “noble” as he one day. So incredibly strange.

To his credit the Commander didn’t waiver in his decision of angering the lethal weapon of a man in front of him, stepping down from his horse to pull Connor off his own and over his shoulder, giving a firm slap to his horse’s rear. Connor watched in fury as the only thing that would take him to save his people in time galloped away into the woods. He continued struggle even when the Commander sat him down gently against a tree.

“Connor.”

He looked away as the man knelt down in front of him, focused on loosening the ropes just enough to allow him the use of his hidden blades. When did the ropes become so tight? His hands were starting to go numb, but it was becoming hard to breathe as well. Had they even tied up his chest as well? Something was constricting his lungs. How was he going to free himself of such bindings? How was he going to escape and save his village? There is no time.

The delicate touch of fingers, calloused from years of wear and tear, took his chin. Connor paused from his fright fueled struggle to glance up to the man in front of him, locking angered, hurt eyes with remorseful yet determined ones.

“Connor listen to me.” He didn’t want to listen, he wanted to scream at the top of his lungs and demand furiously why he was doing this. Why, why, WHY? How could he betray him like this? What did he stand to gain from taking away the only thing that had driven him to join sides with the patriots in the first place? Yet he couldn’t force his tongue to form the words.

“I never wanted to hurt you. You are a great ally, and a very dear friend to me. Your people are, sadly, are a different story and in order for us to win this war, to fight against the British on a more even level, we must take care of them.” Connor looked away, refusing to pay the man anymore attention then he already had. There was a light sigh before the fingers cradling his chin were removed and the rustling of fabric as Washington stood up. Getting back on his horse Connor glanced over to see the soldier who had accompanied Washington gone.

“He rode on ahead to tell the troops.” Washington responded after reading the quick look of confusion cross Connor’s face. “You won’t need someone to guard you Connor, I do not intend to keep you as a prisoner of war. This time.” The warning was added in almost as an after-thought, but the cautioning tone was not unnoticed. “When you escape you may go, but if you try to interfere I will not hesitate to stop you.” With that he turned his attention to the path ahead, spurring his horse into a full gallop and disappearing from sight.

For one agonizing moment he remained still, listening to the fading sound of hooves in the distance, before letting out a distressed cry, his voice breaking as he fell back against the tree. The alarm that had left him when he had killed the last messenger, before he felt the sharp metal touch his flesh, returned with full force sending him into a frenzy of harsh tugging at the bonds around his wrists. How could I let this happen? How could I let them get away with this? No, how could I let them TRY, he corrected himself, and get away with this. He would not let them take his people. He would not let them destroy his village and steal another mother from her child.

Not again.

He was so blinded by terror at the possibility of the destruction of his village he almost missed the small movement of rope around his wrist. The hidden blade slid out of place at the limited flex of his wrist with as easily as it did normally, despite the constraints. Letting out a shaky breath he slowly began sawing the ropes, minutes dragging on like days but he finally managed to slip off the last knot.

Connor didn’t even remember getting up.

All of a sudden he was running, the trees and bushes were a blur around him as he plowed through the underbrush, scaring away the animals hidden within. He was flying down the path, faster than he would have ever been on a horse. His feet picking up speed at the thought of a life taken for every second he could be late.

He was met with only silence

Freezing in trepidation he slowly made his way up the hill, despair tugging at his heart as he glimpsed down to where he hoped his village still rested. It did. Not on fire and yet being swallowed by Washington’s men.

Not on fire.

His people were gathered in the center of the village, soldiers pointing at them with muskets, but not firing. For now, Connor hoped, they are safe. To approach the village hastily would ultimately mean detection, something he could not afford to risk with his people held hostage. However the vegetation of the forest ended before even the outer edge of the village began, perhaps approaching from the other side of the river would work. But that would be incredibly loud and it would take too much of the little time he had.

Approaching the village then.

Crouching down into the bushes he carefully began to make his way down the hill, making sure to not cause any unneeded noise. The plan worked well enough, most of the troops had entered the village by the time Connor had reached the timber outer walls, but he still had to get inside.Taking a deep breath to calm his anxious nerves he got up and silently followed the last of the soldiers into the village through it’s main entrance. Once inside he crept along the wall’s edge, thankfully none of the soldiers seemed to be too concerned with anything beyond the people they had herded into a huddle. I need to find Washington, I need to convince him to stop. Killing him would only make the situation worse.

But where is he?

The Commander was absent from the spectacle in the middle of the village, however his horse was there, its reigns held in the hand of a bored looking patriot. Surely he wouldn’t have left anywhere on foot? He didn’t have to wait long to get his answer.

He caught eyes with the Clan Mother as his were sweeping over the crowd for Washington. His heart sank as she gazed at him heavy with disappointment making him want look away from the deep shame he felt at being unable to keep his promise of keeping them out of harm’s way. However as he began to turn his gaze elsewhere she casually glanced over to the entrance of a longhouse near him. Thanking her mentally he crept forward to peek inside, not before, however, he locked eyes with Kanen'tó:kon. His eyes were ablaze with fury, glaring at Connor as if he wished for him to suddenly burst into flame. What struck Connor painfully though was the sheer amount of betrayal held in his friend’s eyes, almost accusing him as being the sole perpetrator behind this raid on the village. He wanted to assure him otherwise, announce to him that he had no part in this and that he would make sure such things would never escape his notice again. But he could only hold his tongue as he ducked away from his friend’s searing gaze and into the longhouse. There, standing back to him in the darkness bent over, was Washington. Without worrying about a stealthy approach any longer he marched further inside, the outrage he had kept under control while sneaking in resurfaced swiftly, filling him with frustration and begging him to take it out on the man’s face.

That was until he was abruptly enveloped in a bone-shaking chill.

“Connor”

Washington stated it simply enough but the “calmness” of his tone was as frigid as a glacier. He didn’t move to turn around as he continued to observe something in his hands with the curiosity of a cougar pawing an unlucky mouse. Connor didn’t move towards him, whether out of surprise at the sudden unnerving change in the atmosphere or the fact he was now frozen to the spot.

The silence shared between them felt like years.

Connor finally found his voice when he heard the soft sound of a wooden box closing and a light hum of wonder escaping the man’s lips across from him.

“Commander-”

“I expected you to come sooner I must admit. But I suppose your shock at the inevitable prevented you from escaping in such a time. “ Washington turned around to glare at him with such a piercing and hungry stare Connor felt himself take a step back. “Although you got here in time, I suppose. “ The smile that spread across his lips was absolutely predatory in nature and the glint in his eyes was anything but friendly. And as abnormal as it sounded, that face--the one that was now sizing him up like the finest cut of fresh meat at the market--wasn’t what Connor was focusing on, it wasn’t what was filling his stomach with dread.

It was the golden sphere in his hand.

Connor had heard enough from Achilles to know exactly what it was that he was holding, the crystal look-a-like he held those few years ago he had known his village had, but he would have never known his people had also possessed one of them.

The Apple of Eden.

Washington promptly took notice on where Connor’s eyes fell, tightening the grip he had on the artifact. “Amazing isn’t it?”

Connor glanced back up to meet darkened eyes. “Your Clan Mother refused to hand over the box containing it even when my men had muskets aimed at her. I was so very interested in what could make her so protective over such an ordinary thing. Well,” he chuckled “seemingly ordinary. I had no idea all the wonders that it could show me. That it could give to me.” Washington’s eyes glazed over as they drifted down to the glowing ball of gold sitting in his hands.

Connor gulped lightly and slowly reached for his tomahawk. There was no telling what the Apple would make Washington do and he had heard enough stories to know it was never anything less than dangerous. He glanced back to the Apple just as his fingers brushed the leather of his weapon. Washington was suddenly upon him, a fist connecting to his jaw before he could even throw up an arm to block it. Stumbling back and onto the ground, his head reeled from the sheer power that had connected with his now aching mouth. A hand grabbed his collar and hoisted him up nonchalantly, the world spinning as he was assaulted with a wave of vertigo at the rapid movements. Washington growled at him and pinned him against the wall.

“I should have you killed for trying to raise a weapon in my presence.” Connor clawed at the arm holding him, snarling furiously as he watched his old ally raise the apple. “But that would teach you little.” The apple glowed brightly enough to make him wince. “I have a much better idea”, it sent out an aura of light, blinding him for the second after it extended outwards, and then nothing. For a few uneasy breaths Connor didn’t know if he should laugh or punch Washington for the fact that he, his friend, had tried to use the Apple on him for who knows what. The man however smirked so arrogantly, Connor felt the uneasiness he had increase rather than disappear with the failure of the artifact’s influence.

The sound of a gun cracking and a blood-curling shriek answered his apprehension.

“NO!” Connor cried over the sound of bodies collapsing outside, his heart nearly stopped its rhythmic beat as he listened to the merciless killing of his people. The hand on his collar suddenly wrapped around his neck and squeezed, his windpipe constricting so horribly it made Lee’s strangulation those many years ago seem like a gentle neck massage. He pulled desperately at the cloth that covered the arm holding him there, his lungs screeching in protest at the loss of the much needed oxygen his panicking brain required.

Washington had to die.

There was no way he could escape the Commander’s crushing grip in time to save his own life, let alone those of his people. As discreetly as he could he slowly lowered an arm, feigning loss of consciousness in hopes the Commander would presume he had been taken care of. The hesitation he had as he slid the hidden blade out was overwhelming but preventing the man from doing something so vile was worth his loss. I’m sorry, he thought as he lunged the blade toward the neck of a once most trusted friend.

He missed.

As the blade caught the bunched up fabric that rested upon his shoulder the other’s grin widened. Washington tightened his hold on Connor’s neck menacingly, making him gag in desperation. Black dots clouded his vision as he felt himself losing consciousness, falling limp in the claw-like grip that held him.

Now that I truly didn’t see coming.

Re: Welcome to the New Age - Part 1/???

[(Anonymous)]

I'm liking Washington in this, I want to kicking him in the balls but like him none the less. Great work!

Re: Welcome to the New Age - Part 1/???

[(Anonymous)]

Ooh, I'm loving it so far anon! Can't wait for the next part!
(Not OP, but thanks for filling. 8D)

And I must say, I really like how you've portrayed Washington here. I really hope the DLC takes a similar approach in how he acts.

Re: Welcome to the New Age - Part 1/???

[(Anonymous)]

Interesting start! I like that Washington's not raving cartoon evil. He's just doing what he thinks needs to be done, and that makes it scarier.

OP LOVES YOU!

[(Anonymous)]

You are amazing writer-anon! Your Washington was perfect, I loved how remorseful and affectionate he's with Connor at the beginning (even carrying Connor over his shoulder as opposed to having him knocked off his horse) it's a stark contrast to the cruel dictator he's going to become, and the way he looked at Connor like a fine-cut of meat...::shivers::

Poor, poor Connor. It's bad enough Washington betrayed him (along with ending his truce with Haytham prior to the story), but seeing the Clan mother and his childhood friend stare at him with disappointment, betrayal, and possibly hatred was just heart wrenching, and worse Connor never had a chance to explain what really happened, assuming they were caught in the massacre.

I am EAGERLY waiting for the next part, please, please, please update soon!

Welcome to the New Age - Part 2/???

[(Anonymous)]

Thank you for all the feedback! I’m really excited to get the main plot of the story soon and it kind of shows in how I’m trying to pump out the prologue as fast as possible, trying to slow myself down though. So this will be part 2 of the prologue and maybe it's end before the real main plot starts
***

He really, truly didn’t believe the Commander to be moronic.

No really, he didn’t or couldn’t believe a man of such “high military stature” could reach that position in the first place without having some form of intelligence--well as much intelligence needed to tell his men what to fire at. Haytham wasn’t the type of man to just assume such things of others either, but what could one do after being slapped in the face with amount of idiocy that the Commander had shown him? There was no more beating around the bush about it, Washington was indeed as half-witted as Charles told him.

The moment Connor had stormed off to his village the Commander had returned his icy glare to him. Haytham felt his lips beginning to tug into that of a smirk but was able to keep them in a hard pressed line. His original plan might not of exactly worked as planned, since Connor was now furious at them both, however it wouldn’t take long to get him back under his wing. The boy was so very naive and impressionable that way. His only concern at the moment was taking care of the fuming man in front of him without killing him outright. Or perhaps the two soldiers that found their places at Haytham’s side.

“I hope you’re proud of yourself, Kenway. Do you have any idea of what you’ve done?” Washington questioned lowly, beckoning another soldier over with a horse.

“I think I just told the boy the truth about something that impacted his life so horribly. He deserves that peace of mind at least, doesn’t he Commander? Or would you rather him be ignorant to the truth? The perfect hound that’s eager to please your every command as you slowly starve it?” Haytham questioned with a light innocence, which only served to enrage the man further. The man did, Haytham realized thoughtfully, have spectacular control over his emotions’ impulses though.

“As much as I would like to debate Connor’s ‘ignorance’ with you I have much more pressing matters to attend to,” getting up onto his horse he glared back down at Haytham, “however I am not finished with discussing how sensitive matters like these fell into your hands in the first place. These men will make sure you are present and comfortable when I return.” With that he spurred his horse and galloped out of the camp.

Leaving the Templar Grandmaster alone with only two measly soldiers as guards was the most brainless move Haytham had ever seen in his life. He really wanted to say that the escape had been nothing less than difficult, coming close to meeting death himself during such an escape, blood pounding in his ears as he blocked attacks left and right from the two “well conditioned” men before him. If only to honor the soldiers with that of a more noble-sounding death.

Alas, he was not a dramatic man.

Falling a step behind the two soldiers was all the opportunity he needed as he slit the throat of one with his hidden blade, stabbing the other in the heart a split second after before he could cry out in surprise. Retracting the blade and straightening out his clothes he sauntered over to the tied down horses, impressed with the rest of the men’s obliviousness to recently deceased in front of their Commander’s tent. It was a shame he couldn’t wait to see the surprise on the other’s faces when they finally stumbled across them--he could have even given them a lesson in proper guard techniques for next time. Another day perhaps. Pulling himself onto the large stallion he tugged at the reigns sharply making it rear proudly before galloping off in pursuit of the Commander.

Definitely not a dramatic man.

Haytham hoped, well hope wasn’t exactly the right word, he needed to reach his wayward son before the Commander did. The boy had an unhealthy reverence for dear Washington and even though he’d no doubt been hurt by the duel betrayal, if he was met by Washington first there was little chance he would even look at Haytham again. All those lessons--and blisters he was certainly gaining from riding bareback--would be for naught. He didn’t like losing much either, not that he was a poor sport but in reality fate rather favored winners over losers. That and having the loose cannon that was his son under control would prevent anymore future deaths of important Templar agents. He urged the horse faster when he didn’t encounter any sign of either man minutes after he left the camp, worrying for a moment he had in fact lost them in the maze of trees. However the tell-tale flurry of white movement in the distance assured Haytham that he wasn’t lost and wasn’t too late. Yet. The boy was running at a speed that had left Haytham at the ripe age of 40 making him glad he had taken the horse instead of trying to tracking them on foot. Not even remotely concerned about the threat Connor had promised them if they had chosen to follow he called out,

“Con-”

When questioned about it by Charles later he would say that the mud came from a very rude frontiersman whose horse’s hooves coated kicked up the slimy substance as it rode within inches past him. He would never explain how he lurched forward when the horse had made a sudden jump, taking a very ungraceful fall off the animal and into the wet ground below. He grumbled lowly, promising silently to turn the horse over to the cruelest farmer he knew while he picked himself up off the forest floor. Brushing off as much of the dirt as he could he looked up just in time to watch the end of his son’s robes disappear beyond the hill. Sighing lightly he jogged slowly after him, the fall having injured one of his legs causing him to limp. By the time he reached the hill where Connor had disappeared the leg was incredibly tender, which meant a quick retreat was impossible if a fight was waiting for him. With one hand resting on his sword he climbed over the top to see what awaited him.

Thankfully neither the Commander or Connor were waiting their for him, sword drawn and eagerly awaiting to sink it into his flesh. Leaning against a nearby tree he looked down upon the small Mohawk village that was overflowing with the sight of blue patriot uniforms. Catching the small flash of white that snuck in among the rear of the military men Haytham groaned inwardly. His thick-headed offspring was becoming much more trouble than he was worth, still Haytham found himself pushing off of the tree and making his way down the hill.

No use at going in the same way Connor had, if caught the soldiers would more than likely assume he was there to make sure the mission went on without a hitch. However if he himself were caught he'd either be turned into a pincushion for the bayonets or brought in front of Washington, who'd probably use him as an example of what the natives would face if he stayed. Walking around the edge was the more viable option, however walking through the river in order to get to inside the village itself was going to be a pain. He slowly eased himself into the water, careful to keep the splashing to a minimum as he moved into the village. 

Haytham was so concentrated on keeping his actions as silent as possible he almost missed the flash of gold that reflected off the water. He squinted lightly and stared at the rippling of the waves to see if his old eyes were playing tricks on him.

"What in the world?"

The sound of a musket firing and a woman’s shriek caused him to shoot his gaze upwards. For a single moment the natives had moved back in horror, staring at the body of an older woman in a heap on the ground, blood pooling around her. Then there was chaos as several men leapt forward, weapons in hand only to be cut down by the swords of the patriot soldiers. The men in the back raised their muskets and fired into the remaining group as they tried to flee into the river, away from the slaughter upon the shore.

Haytham had no chance. Attempting to enter the discord caused by the carnage in front of him to look for Connor would only result in his death. However when he tried to step back, away from the bloodbath he could not, he was transfixed to the spot. What happened next he really could never find the reason as to why. Maybe it was that treasured memory of a cheeky Mohawk woman whose knowing smile always turned into a borderline smirk.

He ran forward.

“Stop!” He barked loudly, waving his arms to draw the soldiers’ attention. “Stop this!” Shockingly enough Haytham watched, awe-struck, as the men lowered their muskets, regarding him with a distant look in their eyes. He looked back to the remaining natives and frowned as he saw only a handful had survived unscathed.

“Where is Washington” He demanded fiercely. The men did not respond, only looking past Haytham with an empty gaze. He was about to move forward, to grab the first incoherent man and shake him roughly out of his drunk-like stupor. That was however until a hand gripped his pant leg and tugged weakly. He glanced down to see a young, bloodied native man looking up at him feebly but had eyes filled with stubbornness. Bending down he grabbed the man’s arms and helped him up carefully, noticing how he clutched his wounded side. Letting him lean on him for support he shakily motioned to the entrance of one of the longhouses.

“Thank you.” Haytham whispered gratefully. Turning his attention to the entrance he called out sharply, “Washington.”

Granted it only took a few seconds for the man to appear in the door way, hands behind his back, but to Haytham it felt like the Commander was deliberately taking his time to infuriate him. Although that anger was quickly replaced by slight bewilderment when the soldiers immediately straightened up in perfect attention when the man made his appearance, a display extremely rare from a ragtag group of militia.

“Haytham.”

Washington addressed him curiously, feigning a look of general surprise at his presence. But his eyes bore holes through him, full of bitterness and malevolence, however Haytham would be damned if let this phony of a man try to intimidate him.

“Didn’t I tell you for wait for me back at Valley Forge?” He wasn’t questioning, he was accusing. “Why would you come all the way-”

“Let’s not play this game, George.” Haytham cut him off quickly, watching as the man’s blue eyes turned stormy. “Hand Connor over to me and I’ll be on my way.”

The man took a minute to consider it for a moment, tapping his foot against the ground lightly, before he returned his gaze to him. “No.”

Haytham opened his mouth to protest but the Commander silenced him with a hand. “I cannot hand over someone who is most obviously dead.” He then stepped out of the longhouse, revealing a white heap of cloth among the floor from where his body once blocked. Haytham’s heart stopped for a moment as his breath caught in his throat. He shouldn’t have felt this way. He shouldn’t of felt his heart stutter at the sight of the broken body belonging to a son he never really knew, a son he had planned a similar fate for, a son who had shared so many qualities with his brassy mother. He snapped out of his state of shock when he felt the man next to him jerk forward, nearly tumbling to the ground if Haytham hadn’t caught him.

“Ratonhnhaké:ton!” he cried out desperately, eyes searching for any movement on the motionless body. “Ratonhnhaké:ton!”

Then Washington was in front of them. Haytham nearly swore in surprise as he suddenly caught eyes with bizarrely frightening man, having let his guard down just long enough for the him to get into a dangerous proximity.

“This does not concern you, Haytham. Leave before I decide to turn you into target practice for my men.” Haytham shifted uneasily, since when did the man gain an extra foot on him? He was towering over him now, glaring haughtily, practically daring him to give him a reason to strike Haytham down.

As much as he wanted to give the irritating man a black eye he held his arm back, he didn’t want to give the man an excuse to open fire on him or the few natives left. Despite this it didn’t mean the young man in his arms had the same control over his actions, which explained why he spat a mouthful of blood into the Commander’s face.

The backhand that Washington cracked onto the man’s face was enough to send them both back onto the ground. The Commander grabbed the throat of the native beside him and hissed viciously “You do not dare disrespect me again, boy. Unless you want to join your brothers beside you.” The man glowered up at him fearlessly and Haytham commended him silently for his bravery, or idiocy. He grunted slightly when Washington grabbed the front of his coat and lifted him off the ground. His achy body didn’t need to be manhandled around for the man to prove his point.

“Commander you’re being unreasonable-”

“Silence your tongue Haytham before I cut it out.” Washington threatened icily as he let him go. That was it. He’d had enough of this “act” the Commander was putting up, he wanted him to stop it and do so now. He reached forward to grab the man’s uniform as he moved to turn away, but his finger instead caught on the edge of the man’s small sack tied to his belt.

A flash of gold and silver.

The blade against his neck was cool to the touch but hot where it bit into his neck, staining it with blood. “So that’s what it is.” He stated calmly--not being able to help the smirk that spread across his lips--the source of the Commander’s sudden aggressiveness was hidden underneath the small covering of cloth. For some reason the knowledge that an Apple was the cause of Washington’s personality flip calmed him a lot more than it should of. Perhaps it was the fact the powerful artifact was within a hair’s reach, he only had to reach out and the apple would be his. The sword dug into his skin a little deeper as shifted his gaze down to the Apple momentarily before back to Washington.

“Connor had shown the same interest in it as you did. That is before, well you know.” The grin was malicious and Haytham’s eyes narrowed slightly the smirk disappearing. The man was trying to bait him once again and Haytham would not let his excitement over the Apple get the better of him. He wonders if that’s why the Commander had taken out Connor before his arrival. The boy clumsily trying to snatch it away from the man now drunk with power was starting to sound like what triggered the man to kill his friend in the first place. The boy’s daftness had indeed been the end of him and it left him with little remorse but heavy with regret that he hadn’t tried to change the boy sooner. But there wasn’t any time to mourn a man he had only just begun to associate with as the Commander had him move further away from him, from the Apple. He sheathed his sword when his men took up their muskets, aiming them at Haytham in the sword’s place.

“ I will not ask again. I have shown you multitudes of kindness only to have you throw them back in my face, leave now before I choose to run you through.” Locking eyes with the man one last time he looked away helping the fuming wounded man back up from the ground once again. As much as it annoyed Haytham to leave the Apple in a fool’s hands he had to formulate a plan with the other Templars before he could attempt to steal it from its new master’s all-seeing gaze. As he escorted the few grim natives away from their village and off of their land he wondered if he would ever get a chance like this again. Probably never, or at least until an opportunity presented itself again, which allowed him enough time to find a temporary place for the Mohawks to seattle.

He only hoped the cranky, old assassin wouldn’t mind a few more residents at his Homestead.

Re: Welcome to the New Age - Part 2/???

[(Anonymous)]

oooooooh this is amazing
By all means, don't slow yourself down!

I'm really hoping the native Hayhtam helped is Kanen'tó kon, from the way he acts, I'd say it is, and that makes me sooooo happy! and man, your Washington is scary.

Re: Welcome to the New Age - Part 2/???

[(Anonymous)]

omg, yes. This is perfect.

OP LOVES YOU!

[(Anonymous)]

OMG NO HAYTHAM! CHECK CONNOR'S PULSE! Okay, if he did he would know that Connor's alive and try to take him (and King!Washington can't have that) I'm glad you let Kanen'tó:kon live and his and Haytham's reactions to Connor's lifeless body was heart wrenching

I liked how you portrayed Haytham here, especially when his past memories of Ziio influenced him to stop the massacre and most likely gain the support from the surviving Mohawks ... which he'll need if he's to convince Achilles for some kind of truce.

Thank you again for writing this and the quick update, eagerly waiting for part 3 (which is why I'm shamelessly reloading the page for every hour ^^;)

Welcome to the New Age - Part 23/???

[(Anonymous)]

Thank you all for the concern and here--finally--is the next update. Sorry if it’s a little short I wanted to make sure you guys had an update before I held it off for longer than before. There will be no update for the next I want to say two days because I’ll be busy but after that I hope I can do a daily update as I did when I began filling this amazing prompt. Thank you all again for the absolutely fantastic reviews and your patience!

***

As the Aquila slowly sailed deeper into the morning fog Kanen'tó:kon felt himself shuddering, whether it be from the chilled air or the invisible enemy he did not know. They crawled at a tiny pace further out into the bay, the night sky still darkening the world as the early morning sun had yet to fully rise over the horizon, however the fog blocked out everything. The clouds would not doubt burn off by the time the golden sphere was peaking over the water, revealing everything that awaited them beyond their sight. He heard Charles grumble irritatedly about feeling ice forming on his coat making him snicker lightly to himself. The man’s grumpiness, although sometimes a tad annoying, was doing amazing at calming his jittery anxiety about the Aquila’s blindness. Even though being too relaxed could yield a fatal mistake, he’d take that any day over being immobile with fright. The crew bustled among the ship, never in the very least trying to silence their actions of loading and preparing cannons, but the morning’s uneasiness seemed to muffle it for them. Kanen'tó:kon scanned the surrounding water to see if there had been any movement that would give off any possible hint that he had been looking for.

“Sailing into the lion’s den with a blindfold upon our faces is those most fool-brained thing you have ever concocted!” Charles snapped lowly as he glanced around the fog, looking for anything that may give them a hint to where Washington’s men lay hidden. Kanen'tó:kon let out a light sigh before turning to face the man. He was getting extremely tired of having to explain his decision from someone who knew just how capable he was at gaining the upper hand in battle.

“By advancing while hidden we can take them by surprise when the clouds lift. If we began fighting as soon as we started to sail they would know where we are. Besides even if they knew where we were it is not like they could begin fighting since we have yet to fire.” He heard Faulkner chuckle lightly from behind the wheel, the man was the one to have suggested the plan in the first place. He knew Lee would protest to anything that had left his lips, good or bad, so it was decided it would be Kanen'tó:kon’s idea since Charles only complained about it rather argue. The Templar fell back into soft little mumbling, scowl on his face as he rubbed his hands that were kept ungloved, bitterly cold. He nearly jumped when he heard the distant sound of groaning wood, having forgotten--if even for momentarily--that they were not the only ones there. Charles had fallen silent beside him as he tried once more to peer into the blinding whitish grey all around them, failing once more.

“I don’t think we were the only one’s with the idea to use this blasted fog to our advantage.” Lee muttered, his voice no louder than a hushed whisper, shifting uneasily as Kanen'tó:kon mentally agreed with him. Up until now they hadn’t contemplated on the idea that maybe Washington would attempt the same thing, but surely they would have run into one of his ships by now wouldn’t they? Kanen'tó:kon rubbed his temples in annoyance. He had barely slept that night, too busy preparing the Aquila to even have thought of all the possibilities for this plan to go wrong. Now that they were neck deep in high water before even testing it was a little frightening, could they really fail this? Could he really leave Ratonhnhkaté:ton in the hands of that twisted man who sat aboard the ship, confidently surrounded by multitudes of his own men?

No.

He was not about to let this man walk away with his childhood friend as he had the years before. He would do whatever it took to ensure his friend’s safety. Even if it cost him with his own life.

He felt the warmth of the sun before he could even see it, glaring down upon his back as the fog above them dissipated in the wake of its rays. The clouds disappeared faster than what could ever be considered normal to reveal Washington’s fleet no longer just occupying the water around them, but surrounding them in a menacing circle. He felt his heart leap into his throat and was barely able to catch the flash of gold from the bow of one of the ships. He heard a string of curses erupt from every man’s mouth aboard the Aquila.

“I should have expected such trickery.” Charles swore beside him as his eyes glanced over the ships. “He used the Apple to deceive us, there was no way that was any natural ‘fog’.” Completely boxed in what exactly was there left for them to do? They were not being fired upon at the moment but what was to save them if Washington chose to sink them because he wanted no prisoners? The ships placement had been completely reorganized, leaving them not only at a loss for where Washington’s ship was but where to even begin. He paused lightly in his thoughts as he glanced over the ships, peering out of the corner of his eye from where he had caught the flash.

“There.” He uttered breathlessly, it was a simple guess but it was better than waiting to be killed. He ran across the deck, a stuttering Charles in tow to Faulkner’s side. “There,” he repeated as he pointed to a ship sitting idly on the port side of the Aquila, “Washington is there.”

“Are you sure, boy?” Faulkner questioned lightly, the air hung thick with doubt and Kanen'tó:kon was surprised he hadn’t began to choke. He nodded lightly before the man let out a nervous sigh before looking back out to the water.

“We stick to the plan. All that matters is that I get aboard that ship and you keep yourself and the crew alive.” Kanen'tó:kon added as the man let out a light chuckle and shook his head.

“I’m not so sure about the latter, but as for the former it would be an insult to everything the Captain has worked for to fail at something so simple.” Before Lee could find his voice to dispute what they had agreed to Faulkner roared loudly for the men to fully open the sails.

Right as the chorus of cannon fire began.

Faulkner barely had time to scream ‘get down’ before the metal balls buried themselves into the hull, violently shaking the ship. Kanen'tó:kon lurched forward, slamming into the deck before he could throw his hands up to roll forward. Groaning lightly he picked himself up as the ship veered towards Washington’s own sharply, nearly causing him to fall onto his face once more. He gripped the railing, catching a glimpse as Charles--who had somehow managed to be flung down onto the lower deck--pick himself up with such grace he believed him to be Haytham for a moment. That was until the man tripped on his own foot and met with the wooden floor a second time.

“You best be heading towards the bow. We only have one shot and I’m going right for her open side.” The cannons fired again, but this time Kanen'tó:kon was able to keep himself down with the rest of the crew--safe for one clumsy Charles Lee--as the ship rocked beneath him. He sprang up once it was over and sprinted down onto the lower deck, pulling free his tomahawk as they approached Washington’s ship who now began to let loose its sails. Charles stumbled after him, stubbornly trying to keep on his heels despite the possible broken nose he may have very well received. By the time they reached the tip they were mere meters away from the wooden hull of the fleeing ship, bracing himself as the Aquila slammed into it. He was nearly tossed off at the sudden impact, stumbling back a few steps as the ship shook, parting faster than he had originally realized. He pushed himself forward before leaping over the side, digging his tomahawk into the wooden railing as his free hand latched on as well. He heard the smack of another body hitting the space beside him with a low grunt before a sharply gasping as he glanced over to see Lee’s grip slip. He snapped his hand out and snatched the man’s before pulling him up as his muscles screamed.

“Perhaps it was a good idea to be gloveless after all.” He heard Charles muse with the edge of fright in his voice as the man clung to the rail, causing Kanen'tó:kon to snicker lightly before he heaved himself onto the deck. He lunged forward onto the nearest crewman who had come to investigate the source of the thumps, hacking into him with his tomahawk before Charles leapt onto the second nearest man, dagger slick with blood. He sprang back up quickly and watched in shock as the rest of the crewmen regarded him for a moment before returning to their duties, pushing past them to get to the sails.

“What in the bloody hell. . .” Charles muttered as he gaped at the spectacle with wide eyes. They moved a little forward, hesitant of the odd crewman that moved around them. When no one came forward after a few steps Charles began walking forward quickly causing Kanen'tó:kon to hurry after him.

“Lee be careful-”

“I am. Do you want to be in the middle of them when they suddenly turned hostile? I think not. We find Washington, kill him and be done with it.” He stormed towards the captain’s quarters despite the tugging at his arm.

“Wait Lee listen to me, this is all a little odd. We should stop and plan out are next move. They have not given us a reason to be hostile so we can pause for a moment.” Charles shrugged him off, withdrew his pistol and kicked open the door to Washington’s room. Moving inside hesitantly behind Charles he glanced around the empty room, sighing softly to himself as he realized that this was probably indeed the wrong ship. He had been so sure though, the flash of gold had come from this ship, he had seen it!

But maybe it hadn’t been from the Apple at all, perhaps the flash of a weapon or maybe the glint of the sun. Charles grumbled lowly in annoyance, “Wrong ship.”

The cocking of a gun behind them wasn’t at all comforting, but confirmed it was the right ship after all.

They whipped around to see Washington standing alone in the door regarding them with such a look of pure boredom on his face. “Honestly if this trap had come together as perfectly as it has I wouldn’t have taken as many precautions as I did.” Kanen'tó:kon glared at the pistol that was level with his face, the owner’s finger teasingly rubbing against the trigger. Washington glanced over at Charles flicking the gun lightly, ordering the man to set his own down.

“Kick it over to me once it’s on the floor.” He commanded as Charles’ eyes narrowed.

“I will never see something as precious as this fall into your hands.” He snapped back causing Washington to frown menacingly. Kanen'tó:kon felt his heart stutter, if Charles kept up it up maybe just maybe he’d get the chance to leap forward and finally end Washington.

Risky but necessary.

“Give it to me now, Charles.” Washington growled threateningly to that akin to the animal as Charles retorted with equal venom.

“As soon as you hand over the Apple.”

Kanen'tó:kon leapt, tomahawk in hand. Looking back on it now he could have easily held off for a bit longer, but the fear of Washington taking out Charles for his attitude propelled him forward in that instance. Washington had been faster though, letting the gun crack as it spat out the musketball at Kanen'tó:kon’s face. He stumbled back at the sound, waiting for the feeling of pain erupt from the impact but felt none. Instead he saw the eyes of Washington widen as deadly ball of metal flung itself to the side with him out of harm’s way. Without giving it so much as a second thought he jerked forward, bringing his biting blade down towards the man’s throat.

Only to have him disappear.

Kanen'tó:kon snarled in frustration as he swung at had once been occupied thin air, digging his tomahawk into the wooden doorframe. Before he could scream in anger he heard a grunt followed by a body collapsing onto the ground behind him. He spun around to see Charles on his knees, one hand wrapped around his abdomen and the other against the floor. He rushed over, dropping to his knees letting out a quiet gasp as he removed his companion’s arm to see the sleeve stained with blood.

Deep, red blood.

OP LOVES YOU!

[(Anonymous)]

O_o I smell character death approaching

Re: Welcome to the New Age - Part 23/???

[(Anonymous)]

...lol, didn't even realize you had updated due to the shift left. :D

And, man oh man, our heroes just never catch a break do they? Poor everyone. ): It's like the Kenway curse is spreading...plans never go according to plan and things will be royally-effed up.

Hope Charles isn't dead. You've made him into a somewhat likeable character. :)

Welcome to the New Age - Part 24/25

[(Anonymous)]

Okay that last update was a bit disappointing now that I looked at it. Sigh, well I hope I did better on this one. Back In Haytham’s POV for a quick look to see if he is faring any better than Charles and Kanen'tó:kon then back to those two. Yes it was getting way too long over there so I moved it back here, thank you all for the reviews and enjoy the next update!

***

Haytham barely caught a glance at the bay as the image of the Aquila, surrounded like a wounded deer by a pack of ravenous wolves, as it desperately tired--and failed-- to avoid the multitudes of cannons. He didn’t have to see the cracking of its mast or the fire spreading along it’s deck to know what was happening. The sound of men’s screams and cracking wood did it for him. He latched onto the arm whose hand dug into his neck ferociously as he locked eyes with cold and mirthful ones.

“I guess this is good bye, Haytham.” The man purred maliciously as he prepared to throw him over the cliffside. He growled furiously as he tried to free himself, that was before he felt something akin to hooks latched onto his boots and tug sharply. The two of them went tumbling back, away from the cliff, and to the ground as Haytham snapped his head up to see what happened. The hooks for one were rather two wobbly hands, as there owner pulled himself up weakly, dull blade in hand. He heard himself snapping before he could even try to close his mouth.

“Why in the bloody hell did you not grab a better weapon you moronic child?” Connor glared at him the best he could with a black eye and barely conscious.

“You were about to be killed. I could not waste any time.” The two soldiers behind him now lay dead. At least, Haytham thought thankfully, the boy had been smart enough to take them out first. Washington grunted in anger as he picked himself up quickly, reaching for the Apple that stayed securely to his side. Connor shot forward, looking akin to that of some drunk about to pass out, blade poised above his head. Washington pulled out his own, catching Connor’s quickly before shoving him back and making the boy tumble onto the ground. Washington scoffed lightly before reaching back down to grab the Apple, Haytham was one step ahead of him. Hidden blades out he thrusted them forward towards his vulnerable spot as his other hand reached out to grab the artifact in his pouch. The man barely brought up his sword to block him in time while he punched Haytham back with his free hand. Haytham winced lightly at his already aching jaw screamed in protest, glancing out of the corner of his eye as Connor leapt forward once more only to be pushed back again by Washington. Haytham sprang up and met Washington once again, this time he didn’t go for the Apple and went for his throat. The tyrant stumbled a bit back, away from Haytham’s blade enough so that only his cheek was grazed by the biting metal. Connor came up from the side to attack while Washington was occupied with him, only to be kicked back before Haytham himself jumped back back to avoid another punch to his gut. He slammed himself into a nearby tree, groaning lightly in pain as some bird--that had probably been lounging in the tree--shrieked at him angrily. He swung himself forward as to deflect Washington’s sword from hitting Connor who stabbed at him recklessly, trying to get any hit he could.

Connor was going to tire himself out before they got anywhere, the boy had to be patient and remain calm. He couldn’t let his need for vengeance against this disgusting man to provoke him into doing something stupid. Then again those sudden jabs were giving Haytham just enough time to recover from Washington’s blows so that he could jump right back in. It also kept him from seizing the Apple in his pouch. Although Haytham would prefer to get it in his hands as soon as possible he realized that he must be just as patient in order to get the artifact. The longer they kept Washington distracted the longer they kept everyone, including themselves, free of the Apple’s influence. Haytham would rather have it sit inside it’s cloth jail than turn him into a puppet for this man to play with once more. Perhaps they could even wear him down enough so they could kill him or snatch the artifact away. Washington was human like he and Connor, the Apple hadn’t turned him into something beyond human.

At least that’s what he hoped.

He cast a glance over to Connor who was now panting heavily and looked to be on the verge of fainting, only to charge back at Washington. The boy’s persistence would keep him from giving up too soon, that would help Haytham outlast Washington in the end. Two against one, Washington would tire before he then he could finally end that wretched fool’s idiocy.

Haytham lunged forward with a slight smirk.

---

Kanen'tó:kon was surprised when Charles shoved him away with an ill-tempered growl before standing up quickly and looking at his bloodied sleeve with disgust. “I’ll kill that man for ruining my only good coat.” He looked over at the younger man when he remained sitting and staring at his abdomen in horror at the blood. “It’s nothing. Get up, unless you want to hand over victory already.”

“But you are wounded.” Kanen'tó:kon got up and tore the curtains that hung in the room down before tearing a strip off of it.

“Really? I hadn’t quite noticed, thank you for informing me.” The man snapped irritably, was it even possible for someone to sound so annoyed? “I said it was nothing, we’re wasting time with you doing that.” He ignored him as he came over and tied the cloth tightly around the man in response making him hiss. “Excuse me? Did I say I was dying? I think not, you’re restricting me by tying that so tight. I won’t be able to fight like this.”

“Stop complaining” Kanen'tó:kon sighed as met with angry but slightly thankful eyes. “This will keep you going a bit longer than you would have without it. Be thankful it did not hit you anywhere important.” The man sighed in defeat and headed out onto the deck of the ship. The crew, despite the scene their leader had caused, remained working as they walked among them.

“It seems he doesn’t even consider us that big of a threat.” Charles scoffed as the crew kept their attention on firing upon the Aquila.

Wait.

The Aquila, if it could even be called that any longer, with it’s mast gone and ravaged by fire. The ship hadn’t even stood a chance against the massive fleet, Kanen'tó:kon blanched as he watched Washington’s ships continuously pound the wreckage with cannon fire in complete overkill. Washington wanted to make sure there was no chance of them surviving so they could come back and kill him, he hoped that somehow Faulkner and the crew managed to survive the attack.

“Blast.” Charles ran a hand through his hair as he watched the fleet’s decimation of the once proud Aquila. “There’s no way we could possibly search any other ships now. It would take too long and by that time Washington could be up at the manor claiming his prize.” Kanen'tó:kon looked over the other ships of the opposing fleet, looking for any sign of Washington. He squinted his eyes and tried to look over each ship, past the bustling crew on each for something, anything.

What he found wasn’t exactly pleasing.

A Washington stood upon each ship, all in the same place upon the deck, all with the same teasing grin, all with the same taunting eyes. They were everywhere, but at the same time they couldn’t be. A single man in disguise as one of his clones. All but one were the same trick that had awaited them upon this ship, waiting for the swing of the blade for them to disappear, but none any less lethal than the real man.

“What do we do?” Kanen'tó:kon questioned lightly as he saw Charles’ frown deepen upon seeing the Washington look a-likes sitting on every ship. “How is this possible? How can this be true?”

“Well in the context of the question you asked what you see isn’t true. It is a trick of the eyes, none of what you see are there. The Apple is telling your mind to believe what you see is real.” He continued to observe them, looking over each with a cynical gaze. “Just like the ‘fog’ this an unfair trick.”

“Then what do we do? We cannot look aboard each ship to check, which is the real one.” Kanen'tó:kon wet his lips, heart thumping in his chest at a violent pace. He needed something, anything to tell them apart. There had to be something, a little thing that could be considered inhuman to tell them all apart.

“I’m thinking.” Charles snapped a tad weakly, leaning forward against the railing. His face was paler than before, his legs were shaking beneath him. “They’re all copies, they aren’t fading in their grins or shifting their weight. We should watch for any falling of face from when and go after that ship.”

Kanen'tó:kon should have been comforted with that suggestion, but anxiety still ate at him. Tearing at his insides as he watched the men glare at him with lifeless eyes. Something was wrong, there was something off but it wasn’t because of the fake men. There was something in the air, screaming at him silently what it was but he couldn’t understand what. The sudden shriek of a seagull caused him to glance up, if only for a moment towards the cliff face where the manor sat, barely catching a glimpse of Haytham’s robes as he moved further inward, obviously in a fighting stance.

He was up there.

The man was up there, not a fake but the real Washington. Kanen'tó:kon nearly screamed in fury but held it down as he promised to end his life painfully for daring to steal Ratonhnhkaté:ton away while their backs were turned.

“What?” He heard Charles question in surprise as he looked over at him.

“Washington has fooled us once more, he is at the manor, trying to take what is not yet and will never be his.” He growled out before heaving himself over the railing, only to be stopped by Charles grabbing onto his arm.

“What are you doing? You can’t just jump into the water with what is going on! Are you trying to kill yourself?” Lee tried to tug him back onto the deck, but gave up when Kanen'tó:kon yanked his arm away viciously.

“And let Washington get away with it? No, I will not let him go with out fighting.” With that he dived into the choppy water below before he began to swim. He’d have to swim around the fleet, there was no use trying to swim through the middle and be killed by a cannonball. He paused when he heard a splash behind him and Charles swam awkwardly and slowly to his side. Before he could question the man with what he could possibly be doing Charles cut him off with a curt answer.

“Your stupidity would have you killed without me.” He felt a grin tug at his lips as he watched the man swim ahead of him before he started once more. Thankfully if this was any other battle at sea they surly wouldn’t have stood a chance in trying to swim out of the way of the enormous ships. However because many practically frozen in their spots in the circle it allowed for the two of them to move around them safely without worry. Kanen'tó:kon swam a little faster however as he realized just how far the shore was from them, Washington could have made off with his best friend before he even came upon the shore. The frigidness of the water, which he didn’t notice before, was now biting at him with sharp teeth, sinking icy fangs into his muscles, threatening to freeze him up. Charles had somehow begun lagging behind, sluggishly paddling through the water as he attempted to keep up, his breathing was labored and shallow.

Pausing for a moment he swam over to Charles and positioned him so the man’s arms were wrapped around his neck before he continued swimming again, much slower than before. Lee definitely weighed half as much as he did in the water than out of it making it much easier to carry him on his back, however the man still was a good load upon his back. The man was shuddering violently, freezing from the frigid, winter air and cold water, no doubt having lost the heat he created from swimming. However Kanen'tó:kon wasn’t about to let him waste precious time swimming at a slow pace when they needed to reach the shower in record time. He panted heavily in his ear, sounding pained at every small wave that they swam over. He wanted to ask if the man was alright, but couldn’t put any of the oxygen he needed to waste. He only hoped that the man would hold on long enough for them to reach the shore so they could get to Achilles to help him while he took care of Washington.

They finally reached the dock after what felt like ages, clearing the last of the ships that couldn’t be bothered by them. He moved over to the dock and heaved himself up, taking a few minutes to pull up Charles from the water. The man wobbled lightly when he was put on his feet, nearly falling back in the water.

“Here, let me carry you to Achilles so he can treat you.” Kanen'tó:kon went to pick him up only to be shoved away.

“I can walk perfectly, and we should see Achilles later. Washington needs our attention now.” Charles moved forward deliriously, stumbling and nearly falling onto his face before he regained his balance. Kanen'tó:kon caught up with him and wrapped his arm around his back as he hurried them up the hill and to the manor.

WriterAnon

[(Anonymous)]

This doesn't have to do with the story but with the anon who sent me the links. Sorry I didn't reply sooner, just saw them. I have seen the trailer, but I did not see the wiki page with the releases dates. They are a lot sooner then i thought and made me so super excited. Thank you for sending me the links!

OP LOVES YOU!

[(Anonymous)]

Connor: Damn it, father - are you EVER going to thank me for saving you?!

^^; It's good to see that Connor managed to recover consciousness and gain enough adrenaline to fight Washington alongside his father. It's also good to see Kanen and Charles (he's alive!) in action and moving in for support; but I am worried since their minds aren't immune to the Apple, but at least Kanen has the Shard of Eden.

Welcome to the New Age - Part 25a/25c

[(Anonymous)]

So this is officially the first part of the end anons. I’m very glad that I had such wonderful comments from all of you and had fun filling this prompt. (And yes OP it seems that Haytham cannot ever thank Connor for saving his ass lol) There will be at least two more parts after this to wrap up anything and of course a bad ending.. Enjoy the update!

***

Connor nearly collapsed when Washington punched him in the same place he had ages ago. He stumbled lightly as Haytham charged past him to meet the tyrant in a clash of steel. His stomach threatened to empty any of its remaining contents as he panted heavily to catch his breath. He had no idea exactly how long this little sword fight was taking, but it felt like hours on his already weak body. His movements were becoming agonizingly slow, barely being able to lift his dagger in response to the sudden assault from Washington’s blade. Haytham almost let him get cut to ribbons before he leapt in front to defend him from the quick movements of the other man.

“Come on, Connor.” Haytham grunted as he pushed back the older man who growled lowly in anger. Connor barely had the energy to scowl at him let alone snap back at the man that he was trying his hardest. Haytham hadn’t been even come close to the deprivation his body suffered under Washington’s imprisonment. His father still possessed the same muscular advantage and long lasting endurance, yet he was letting Connor do most of the attacking. What was he thinking? Did he want them to lose? Was he waiting until Connor fell unconscious or managed to stumble off the cliff in a tired induced haze? Maybe waiting until Washington managed to slip the Apple out of his pouch and try to grab it in the split second before he used it? Whatever his father was planning to even attempt was incredibly risky and potentially dangerous. He wasn’t about to put the homestead in danger for his father’s sure to fail plan. Washington flashed him a malicious grin as he was slapped back once more after trying desperately to have his blade meet the thick, calloused skin of the former Commander’s arm.

“Easy there Connor. I don’t wish to hurt you any more than I have.” The tyrant purred with a lust filled glint making him shudder in disgust and the nausea that had disappeared return. There was now way he would let this man take him back to the imprisonment that he had suffered silently under for years. He would die before he let this man touch him again, this was the last night he’d ever have to worry about being abused in such a torturous way for the rest of his life.

Haytham seemed to act upon that too, lashing out for a moment with a quick flurry of his feet, slicing open the cloth on the former Commander’s chest before stepping back with a glare. He side-stepped the fury fueled swing of the sword from Washington who was no doubt infuriated by his now ruined King’s uniform. A small smirk spread across Haytham’s lips as he grabbed Washington’s arm and pulled him forward, stabbing the man in the shoulder. The man howled and leapt back, gripping his shoulder with his free hand as he focused his icy, blue gaze onto Haytham.

It felt nice for once to be out of the crazed man’s glare, if even for a moment.


Connor leapt forward with newly returned vigor--nothing compared to when he had began this fight, but enough to land another possible strike onto Washington--blindly stabbing until he felt his knife clang with the man’s sword. He heard what sounded like a chuckle come from the other man and he frowned lightly, mentally throwing every insult he knew at him. He wanted to land another hit on the man if anything before he possibly died from exhaustion or even Washington cutting him down accidentally. This would be his last stand, it was either him or Washington, he would kill him or die trying.

And that was final.

Haytham looked annoyed when he came to his defensive again making him wonder for a moment if Haytham had the same plan in mind and was irritated at the idea of Connor killing the tyrant instead. Letting out a sigh in response to the absurdity of the thought he shot forward, only to once again be caught in a sudden block. The sounds of cannons continued to roar in the distance, cracking of wood and screaming men made him flinch lightly. He hoped the Aquila and her crew were all right under the attack of Washington’s forces. Although the men had, had their fair of extremely skewered naval battles with odds highly in favor of the enemy they came out as the victors, hoping those battles served as practice for this one. He believed in Faulkner’s capabilities as captain for this fight, the man had always been from what he could tell an amazing first mate, but there was literally no telling what could happen in a situation such as this. At least the Apple was not playing apart in this.

Connor held back the sharp yelp of pain that had threatened to spill from his lips when a harsh blow was delivered to his gut with such pain-filled intensity his vision flashed white for a moment. His body screamed at him as he once again picked himself up, lifting the small knife that weighed akin to that of the cannon balls being fired in the bay. They needed to end this fight now, somehow, he didn’t care, he was going to run out of energy in a moment and when that happened would Haytham be able to hold his own? His father hadn’t seemed to be losing energy as quickly as he, despite his advantage in endurance, but his swordsmanship since he entered the fight had been extremely sloppy. He wonders if it is due to the fact one of his hands is permanently mangled from being shot earlier as well as the pain in his shoulder from the same kind of wound. Haytham however had been able to fight amazingly well in the past despite possessing more grievous wounds than he had now. Perhaps this was another ploy to lure Washington into a false sense of security? Connor could only wonder what his father’s intentions may prove in the future because as of that moment there was no plan and had never been one. He wishes that Haytham, rather than trying to sleep, had tried to come up with a plan with him should a situation like this arisen. It was too late for that kind of thinking now however, what’s done is done. All they had to do now was work together in keeping Washington from winning this fight, perhaps if they killed him here the battle in the bay would be theirs as well, considering Washington’s men were just a bunch of puppets on strings for their wicked master. To get rid of Washington now meant a secure victory for them and the promise of the homesteaders safety from a terrible death that the tyrant had no doubt planned for all of them by keeping Connor here in secrecy. He could not let his innocent friends’ blood be shed for a fight that they played no part in, over an artifact they knew nothing of, over war that they owned no knowledge of.

Connor grunted in pain as he fell to the ground once more, wanting to do nothing but curl up into a ball and plead for the pain to go away and the fight to be over. The labored breathing of his father and Washington was silenced over the loud cannons in the distance, making him wonder if the two men were even fighting in the first place. How did they have the strength to even continue battling each other after all this time? The strength had completely left him, leaving him a panting sack of skin upon the ground, barely having the energy to get his stolen breath back.

“Get up Connor.” His father demanded with a light voice, lacking its usual snapping tone. Well at least he wasn’t being yelled at for having his strength gone. He looked away from them and back towards the hill that lead down to the bay. He had to warn Achilles to get out of there, help the homestead residents flee, he couldn’t let them go down with him now that his endurance was stolen from him. He reached forward, digging his fingers into the ground attempting to pull himself along the dirt and half-melting snow. A dagger suddenly found its way into his hand, lacking the power to even cry out in pain all he could do was stare at it in shock.

“Don’t even think about it.” Washington snarled before he was cut off by Haytham pushing him back. Slowly reaching forward he gripped the leather hilt of the small but possibly deadly weapon, easing it up inch by inch. His arm trembled violently as it pulled the knife from his skin, the hand feeling as if it had caught fire from the slicing of skin and muscle the blade left in its wake. The dagger felt like lead in his hand as he finally pulled in free and dropped it beside him, impaling itself into the now blood soaked ground by his hand. He panted heavily, carefully pulling his hand back to himself and cradling it, locking his eyes ahead at the hill. He knew that if he fainted a fate uglier than death awaited him but he simply lacked the power to push forward, his will was intact but there was only so much his mind could do when his body was left in shambles. He called out to Achilles in his mind, begging him to go somewhere safe, then to Kanen'tó:kon if he was even still alive to take their people away, go as far as they could away from here and never return, to finally be safe from Washington’s sadistic anger. He felt his eye lids grow heavy and fought to keep them open, not yet willing to grow unaware to the world and awake back in chains as he did those many years ago.

The figures that appeared almost came from nowhere--he supposes he must have blinked very slowly to miss their sudden appearance as they crept up upon them. Well more like limped he realized as they grew closer, one of the figures was drenched with red and practically being dragged by the other for support. Connor immediately recognized the figure in the white robes as they drew closer, panting for breath as he trudged through the snow. Kanen'tó:kon looked to be relived, if for only a moment, when he saw Connor laying their on the ground--alive--before he turned his attention to the two fighting men. They were too focused in their fight to notice the men, who were still a few meters away as they approached, silently moving to join Connor. That was when he discovered the identity of bloodied man, a sickly looking Charles Lee. If this had been any other time Connor would have loathed the fact that it was that man coming to his rescue, however as he looked over the man his anger fizzled out quicker than it ignited. The man was as white as the snow around him, black mustache standing out as black as night against his skin, his eyes were droopy and clouding, wincing ever so slightly as Kanen'tó:kon adjusted himself with each move up the hill. They paused for a moment only for his friend to lay Lee’s body against a nearby rock, barely able to catch a few whispered voices before the younger man stood up and started creeping over to him, much faster now without the dead weight of a man upon his shoulder. He put a finger to his lips when Connor began to open his mouth, to try and question just what exactly he was doing before the man drew his tomahawk and dove at Washington who’s back was turned, blade raised.

The instant before the blade hit his throat the tyrant had grabbed Haytham and snapped around towards Kanen'tó:kon, throwing his father into him causing them both to stumble back. Connor felt his heart seize up as Washington reached for the pouch holding the artifact at his side, scrambling to get up despite being assaulted by a wave of vertigo and lead-filled limbs he shakily got to his feet and charged the man. It wasn’t like he didn’t expect to be punched out of the way again, but that didn’t mean it hurt any less when the man slammed him against a nearby tree. The next thing he knew was that the sword Washington had been using was stabbed into the wood a hair away from his neck, sticking through his bunched up hood behind him.

“Don’t move.” Washington said lowly with a furious glare. “You’ve been disobeying enough today Connor.” With that he turned away from him and back to the tangled mess of limbs upon the ground of Haytham and Kanen'tó:kon. The snow around them was splattered with blood, the tomahawk that had been raised to strike down Washington now resided in his father’s arm. Haytham grunted and pulled out the wound with a hiss as Kanen'tó:kon struggled to get out from under him to defend them from Washington. His heart stuttered at seeing the tomahawk stuck in Haytham’s arm, but the wound looked shallow enough to prevent him from completely losing his arm, Kanen'tó:kon must have tried to pull the weapon away a second too late.
Washington was on them before they could get back up, kicking Haytham over and pinning Kanen'tó:kon down with his boot to his throat.

“I have had enough of all of your antics you worthless savage.” Washington snarled before glancing over at Haytham who gripped his shoulder arm tightly. “You’re the first to go, Haytham.”

Connor struggled as the man gripped Haytham’s collar and pulled him up before reaching for the Apple upon his side. The artifact flashed gold, before Washington put Haytham down who now stood on his own accord before he was joined by Kanen'tó:kon. Both of their faces contorted in fury, struggling against the invisible ropes that Washington now had in his grip. He smiled and started walking, the other two followed him with a matched pace as they approached the cliff. Connor reached over to the blade and gripped its cool metal as he tugged, slicing open his already wounded hand in the process. He had to stop him, he couldn’t let Washington take any more lives! But he was stuck, trapped, the sword was immovable for his weak body. He kicked his feet as he struggled, trying to instead tear the cloth to free himself when he spotted his blade at his feet. It was his only chance. Carefully angling his feet forward he pushed the blade over with his other foot as he attempted to lift up to his waiting hands. Come one, come on! He glanced up in horror as the tyrant prepared to push them over.

He hadn’t expected Charles to leap forward.

The man must have crawled over during the chaos, completely unknown to all of them let alone Washington as he shoved Kanen'tó:kon’s tomahawk into Washington’s back making the man howl. He whipped around eyes ablaze as he raised the Apple to control Charles too, until the man gave him a powerful shove that sent him back over the cliff face. Washington let go of the Apple in shock as he fell back, reaching forward to grab onto something to catch him, that nearest thing being Lee. Charles instead offered no sturdiness and gave a feral smirk to the panicked face of Washington before the two fell backwards, Haytham shooting forward and just missing the tail of Charles’ coat, now free from Washington’s control. Kanen'tó:kon shouted what was probably the falling man’s name, but no sound reached Connor’s ears as his world quickly faded to back, leaving him with the lasting image of his father and friend staring down at the sea in shock.

It seemed even if it meant death Charles Lee still managed to take away everything from him.