Roswell Fanatics

~Alex~

One of the first questions which comes from the ladies refers to the man who’s standing to the side of Max. Kyle…

The two ladies obviously care a lot for him, being concerned for his wellbeing, and they look expectantly to Max for the answers they seek.

Voicing his decision to ask Kyle to join his crew, Max goes on to ask about him either sharing my house or staying with Michael on the ship.

This latter is quickly rebuffed by Michael, whose attitude is pretty much matched by Kyle. I shake my head, one stubborn captain is enough…we could do without a new crew member who is as bad…

Isabel interrupts, reminding them of her presence and says that she would rather Kyle were somewhere safe and free of tension – two requirements my own house apparently fills.

I nod slowly, albeit reluctantly. In truth I cannot think to deny this beautiful woman anything anyway, although if there are only six rooms free at the inn, I cannot help wondering if a better solution would be for me to board with someone and to give the use of the house to a number of the ladies… “If that is what everyone feels is best, certainly I will have no objection, although I did wonder if, given the size of the house and lack of people to fill it, it might be better used by some of the ladies, at least fro the moment, to reduce the crowding in lodgings…” I explain, quickly adding that I would of course find alternative accommodation in this case for fear that it might be taken the wrong way.

*Max*

Michael does not take my request easily. As well as I know him, that's hardly surprising, although I had hopes for more compliance. Tess and Isabel both jump to Kyle's defense. I, too, know he's not what he appeared when we first rescued him from the water, still it is a thing of amazement to hear both girls grow so passionate about his safety.

Thankfully, Alex has agreed to help, although he suggests his home would be a good place for some of the ladies to share.

"Aye," I say. "You and Kyle can lodge on the Lucky Star if you chose to open your home to the ladies." His home is no more than quarter mile from the one I share with Michael and I know it well. It could easily shelter three or more of the ladies if Alex were gone. "Although it may not be so easy to bid them leave when you wish to return," I note.

Alex is a good sailor and a more than fine minstrel, but he has never been bold with the ladies. I forsee him being displaced entirely by his winsome house-guests if he's not cautious.

Michael

I can't believe that Isabel and this other lady, Tess, is defending Kyle. I can't help but be skeptical of him. Of course, I never have never truly trusted anyone other than Max and Isabel. They were family. Like me in ways that others did not see.

"Aye," Max says to Alex after he offers his home to the ladies instead of housing Kyle. "You and Kyle can lodge on the Lucky Star if you chose to open your home to the ladies. Although it may not be so easy to bid them leave when you wish to return."

I mumble agreement. "At least I'll get some peace on the Demon tonight."

Max turns and give me a stern look. I open my mouth to say something when Isabel joins him. 'Crap,' I think knowing that I'm going to get a ass chewing when the three of us are alone. I don't look forward to it. It's bad enough when Isabel is on my case but when Max joins in, I can't win. So, I shut my mouth, cross my arms and scowl at the man who's causing all these problems. At least in my eyes.



~Kyle~

"Please, Kyle. Ignore the cutting words of untruth. We ladies know well that you were not amonth those responsible for our capture, but an unwitting and unwilling party to it. That is all that really matters is that you know and that we women will vouch for that." Tess says as she lays a hand on my arm.

I can't help but look down her her beautiful petite fingers. They were as soft as they looked and I felt a shock of electricity run through my body as her warm touch sinks in.

I bow my head. "Thank you m'lady. Now, where is it that you are staying so that I may escort you. I'm sure that you are tired after such a journey and would like to freshen up. That is, if the Captain will allow me to do so." I say looking at Max.

He has offered me a place among his crew and a home on his ship but he has said nothing about allowing me out of his sight. I can only hope that he allows me to escort Tess to the inn.

*Max*

Michael remains sullen and disagreeable, which seems to be pretty much a normal state of affairs for him. I suppose it suits a pirate but it pisses me off when he can't manage a conversation now and then. I give him a glare, hoping he'll be a bit more courteous when he, Isabel and I all get a chance to talk in private. Isabel deserves kinder treatment than that.

My thoughts are interupted by Kyle, offering to escort Tess to the Inn. Seeing as he's never been here before and has no better idea where that is than she does, it's clear that some assistance will be needed. Besides, I have another eighteen Ladies at the dock seeking shelter, including Liz.

"Yes, It is time we allow all the ladies a chance to get out of the sun and rest in comfort," I agree. I offer my arm to Isabel so I can escort her to the rest of the group. "Follow me," I say as I turn to walk in that direction.

Looking ahead at the group, my eyes immediately alight on Liz. She's been something of a leader among the ladies on the Lucky Star and as such, she may chose to remain among her group, but I can't help but think it would be nice if she had more comfortable lodgings.

"Alex," I ask. "Have you any particular ladies in mind to share your home? I might recommend Lady Liz." I'm thinking he might be thinking of Tess, seeing how she's hovering around us right now. Maybe he's made friends with her, but I'm sure there will be room for both girls...

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OOC: I appologise for the amount of time this has taken, I had a list of things to do on Thursday, this being one of them, which didn't happen given I was sat watching the news on the bombings, and then Friday I managed to fall asleep when I got back from work...that was planned, only problem was I then didn't wake up as expected earlier lol. Hope this works.

~Alex~

My suggestion seems to find approval with Max, him offering the ‘Lucky Star’ as an alternative, although his knowledge of me shows as he points out it could be difficult to get them to leave later.

I nod reluctantly. “That may be, but my comfort for the moment is hardly the priority, and if it comes to it, I am sure that I will be able to call on a number of the crew to assist me…”

In truth, the house I have is too big for myself alone, and if the ladies can find better use I am pleased to be of service.

Kyle requests permission to escort Tess to the lodgings, and Max agrees, although I am somewhat disappointed – if not surprised – to see him hold out his arm to Isabel.

As the five of us head over, I am not sure if I imagine it, but I could swear I see a strange look in Max’s eye. I follow his gaze, and find that it rests on the petite brunette who travelled on his ship. I am just telling myself not to be silly, that I am reading something into nothing, but his next suggestion does make me wonder…

"Have you any particular ladies in mind to share your home? I might recommend Lady Liz."

I nod slightly. “I had no one in particular in mind, but if you believe Lady Liz would be a good choice, I have no objections…” I turn to Tess. “If she agrees, perhaps you too would care to join her M’lady…?” I suggest somewhat awkwardly.

*Maria*

"Try not to worry though Maria. I am sure that something will be worked out to satisfy the great majority of people, and if it comes to it, I cannot speak for the other ladies, but despite the fact I might not be used to it, I am not afraid of hard work myself. I might need a little teaching, but I will learn," Liz tells me.

I do not actually know if that is true. Liz is a good person. Really she is. But she has no idea the strength and stamina it takes to do the wash and the cooking. Although she she is diligent in other matters. She may make a good go at being a seamstress or a tatter.

I keep my thoughts to myself for the moment, not wanting to spoil her optimism. She thinks herself ready for any task. Mayhap I can help her find something suitable to her skills before that strength is dashed.

In a few moments, I am done with Liz's hair, pinning it in place with the last of her copper hair-clasps. I hold the mirror before her so she can see the result. In truth, she is a beautiful woman and with this amazing gift, now she will always know it, too.

As Liz observes herself, I see that the captain is returning with Kyle and several others, including that honest ruffian who captains the other ship. Tess and Isabel are also with him, and the nice crewmember who was hit during our rescue.

"They return," I say softly to Liz.



*Max*

I note how Alex immediately adds Tess to his list of invitees. I wonder if he has feelings for her. She had been clinging to Kyle protectively during our discussions of him, but I do not know how she feels towards my crewmen. One thing I do know, Alex will be unlikely to rush any woman whom he fancies.

I wait to hear how Tess will respond to this invitation as I continue towards the other the ladies who still await guidance towards their lodging place.

Michael

Without a word, I follow Max and the others. I still scowl at Kyle's backside, not trusting him. I don't care what Isabel or Max say, he's going to have to earn my trust.

We approach the other women that had disembarked from Max's ship. I watch as Max keeps looking toward them...one in particular. Following his sight, I see that it's the petite brunette. She's pretty but what really catches my eye is the taller blonde that is next to her. As we draw closer I am able to get a better look. She's the one that was quite spunky when we rescued them. I feel a burning sensation in my gut that slowly travels toward my groin. I take a deep breath trying to keep these impulses at bay. I notice that her eyes are the color of emeralds and lips luscious and plump. Images of how they would feel on my...

I scowl and shake my head trying to get the image out of my head. Isabel would chew my head off if I touched any other these women, brother or no. I would never force myself on any woman but I do have a persuasive way with the wenches. One that has made sure my bed was kept warm on many a nights.

Showing no expression, I follow the others trying hard to keep my eyes from the woman that has lit a fire of desire within.


~Kyle~

I hold my arm out and Tess takes it. I follow Max and his sister. I'm glad they took the lead because really I had no idea where I was going. I only knew that I wanted to spend more time with Tess.

Her hand on my arm was warm and I relished in the touch. I couldn't help but smile at her and she returned it.

"Have you any particular ladies in mind to share your home? I might recommend Lady Liz." I hear Max say to Alex. This gets my attention because Liz was one of the girls that I had befriended on the ship.

“I had no one in particular in mind, but if you believe Lady Liz would be a good choice, I have no objections…” Alex says then turns to Tess. “If she agrees, perhaps you too would care to join her M’lady…?”

I smile glad that things for all of us is coming together. I hope that soon we would all settle down for a few days and be able to relax. I'm sure the women have been through quite a tramatic experience and it would be nice myself to get some rest.

~Isabel~

I am pleased when Alex responds by stating, “If that is what everyone feels is best, certainly I will have no objection, although I did wonder if, given the size of the house and lack of people to fill it, it might be better used by some of the ladies, at least for the moment, to reduce the crowding in lodgings…”

"Aye," My brother responds, "You and Kyle can lodge on the Lucky Star if you chose to open your home to the ladies."

"Although it may not be so easy to bid them leave when you wish to return," Max adds and I smile at this.

"I do believe that I can easily remedy any problem a woman may cause in vacating when Alex wishes to have his home returned." I comment with complete certainty which gains a smile from Tess.

"At least I'll get some peace on the Demon tonight." Michael mutters and I turn to glare at him.

I hear Kyle speaking of escorting Tess to her lodgings and smile even as I see the smile on Tess' face. I truly think that she might well be smitten with the man.

"Yes, It is time we allow all the ladies a chance to get out of the sun and rest in comfort," Max agrees, offering his arm to me and I take it, welcoming the escort from my brother. After the trials on the slaving ship it was a comfort to be around him, though I admit Alex's company had been pleasant and I certainly didn't feel uncomfortable around the seemingly shy gentleman. "Follow me," Max says and I walk at his side, smiling as I look at him and notice the look on his face. When I turn to see who he's looking at, I get a thought in my mind that is indeed interesting.



~Tess~

"Thank you m'lady. Now, where is it that you are staying so that I may escort you. I'm sure that you are tired after such a journey and would like to freshen up. That is, if the Captain will allow me to do so." Kyle says as he looks at Isabel's brother.

"I would be honored, Kyle." I nod and smile, placing my hand on his arm as he offers it. He smiles at me and my own smile widens. I'm hoping that I'll have the chance to see more of him before they set sail again.

"Alex," Max asks. "Have you any particular ladies in mind to share your home? I might recommend Lady Liz."

“I had no one in particular in mind, but if you believe Lady Liz would be a good choice, I have no objections…” Alex turns toward me, "If she agrees, perhaps you too would care to join her M’lady…?”

"I would indeed enjoy the opportunity and thank you kindly for the offer." I respond with a grin. As we approach the other ladies I can't help but give them a smile of greeting.

"If there is room, I would also suggest that besides Liz and Tess, Maria be considered. They are the least likely to cause problems to arise and Liz and Maria seem to be best friends." Isabel spoke before we were in hearing range of the other women. I had to agree, they did seem to be really close.

Still, my gaze turns from that situation as I look over at Kyle, keeping my hand on his arm. I hadn't quite expected a reaction such as I'm feeling from this simple contact, but it was a pleasing sensation and I wasn't about to remove my hand until I had no choice.

"Ladies," Isabel begins and I listen even as I smile at Kyle before glancing away, though my gaze flickers to him rather often. "As you ladies are aware, we are going to be starting a new life amongst those that live here. Now, lodging has pretty much been prepared for everyone, but everyone must be aware that there will be much work to be done. No one will be getting a free ride here."

One of the ladies seems to tense at that and I can't recall her name, "What will we be expected to do?" She asks and I know Isabel has a reply ready for that.

"It will vary. Some of you may be asked to assist by cooking for the men, sewing things, using the skills you have been taught in order to survive. Others will need to learn new skills. There will be no pampering here, there are no drawing rooms for gossip and idle chatter. Know this, if anyone causes any problems here, I will suggest that you be returned to your homes to face whatever it is you are running away from. I'll not have any of you cause things to go awry for my brother and the others who have made their homes here." Isabel continued and I could hear the strength of her threat, she meant every word of it.

*Maria*

I turn to face the captains and Kyle and Alex. Isabel and Tess are still with them. Everyone turns to watch. A few of the ladies who had found seats get to their feet, although most remain seated.

Both Max and Michael seem to be looking at Liz and I in particular and I can't help but feel myself color a bit under their gaze. I peer through my eyelashes at Michael. His scowl is dark and dangerous. It speaks of adventure and passion and life. Max's calm veneer of a gentleman pales beside this barely contained firestorm.

I barely listen to Isabel's instructions, as they are much of what Max has already told us. I watch Michael's eyes, wondering what is going on behind them.


*Max*

As we come within speaking distance of the ladies, my eyes catch Liz's and I give her a smile. However, before I can address her or the other ladies, Isabel takes charge of them all, much the way Liz had been leading the ladies on my ship during our sail. I'm not surprised at her authoritative stance but I am a bit amused as she threatens to have the women shipped back to England if they give me or Michael any trouble. Surely she doesn't think she needs to protect us from cantankerous women? Michael and I are pirates, after all. I think we can hold our own against these lovelies.

Although seeing the expressions on some of the faces, I do have a moment's pause, wondering what they might do when in dire straights.

"We will now take you to the inn. Follow us. It is not far, but do stay together. I'm sure you do not wish to be lost in a pirate town," I instruct everyone. They should not be in any greater danger here than they would be on a street in London, but I hope the warning will help maintain some order. I take another step towards Liz and Maria. The two of them fall into step beside me as I walk with Isabel still on my arm.

~Isabel~


"We will now take you to the inn. Follow us. It is not far, but do stay together. I'm sure you do not wish to be lost in a pirate town," My brother instructs and I smile, as I see some of the skittish responses from some of the women when he mentioned being lost in a pirate town. Of course, I'm certain that it seems rather scary to them because they can't do what I can if something untoward happened with me.

Walking with my arm still on Max's arm I glance back towards Tess and see her looking at Kyle with a look that tells me she is definitely interested in the guy. I didn't understand it, but there was something about Tess that made me feel the need to be protective over her.