After a few more words of discussion they all separated for their different tasks. The hardest one was for Silent and HP, finding Frenchy would not be too easy as Coalition soldiers were not welcome in many places and some where he would be welcomed they wouldn't.

Sparkle and Delphy headed towards the cattle area, there would hopefully be something there they could bargain for.

Mistress White and Loaf had by far the easiest job, but as White mentioned to her friend it wouldn't be easy getting ready later especially once Silent saw what she had in mind.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

The shops in this part of town catered mostly to crews and marketeers, they needed something a little more upmarket.

After half an hour of walking through several alleys and streets ignoring for the most part cat calls and wolf whistles they came to a store with a small plaque hanging from two chains. 'Haltwhistles'.

White peered through one of the rather dirty windows, 'This place should have just what we need Loaf.'

Pushing open a glass paned door the two women entered the shop, there was a strong smell of incense in the air and the room felt too warm. The sales woman smiled at them, her smile brightened when she heard Whites list of purchases.
"Never pays to under-dress for customers huh girls?'

White buried her urge to whack the woman upside the head and just said 'We need it all quickly. I'll add another two gold pieces if you hurry.'



Unsurprisingly the woman took less than twenty minutes to find everything they wanted and to tie the bundles up with string. Her smile and manner was almost toadying up until the moment they left the store closing the door firmly behind themselves.

Meanwhile Sparkle and Delphy had looked around the cattle area and almost given up on finding something for the task ahead. Everything was either too small or too old to make a fast getaway.

Wandering over to a stall selling food and semi decent ale they enjoyed a quick snack whilst they reconsidered their options. That was when Sparkle noticed an elderly man walking past the main cattle area with a barrow full of oats and other foodstuffs for horses.

On a whim she and Delphy followed the man to a large stable where after a few minutes of strong bartering and much leering on the part of the old man at Sparkles cleavage they had themselves finally an almost perfect wagon and twin horse team.



Delphy leaned back on the front bench of the wagon as Sparkle took the reins, they had to follow a route going through the putskirts of town and took in the side of the barracks where Captain Wytche was prisoner. As they passed the huge stone building neither said a word but cast their eyes over the barracks both thinking about the coming task.

Once back at the 'Bodice' the rest of the girls were already back and HP was having a private conversation with Frenchy in the kitchen...

At the same time as the crew aided by HP and Delphy were getting ready for a daring rescue, across town the soldiers were preparing the guillotine and canopied viewing platforms for the Nobility such as Lady Lethe and other Coalition officers to witness first hand the end of the Pirate Captain.



Within the barracks themselves everything had been cleaned, well not quite everything.

In the cellar level were stores and of course the cells for prisoners. Captain Wytche had been placed in a cell to await his punishment. He had no illusions that there would be any sort of trial, he had been thrown in here still in his undergarments then after being kicked and beaten he was chained to the ceiling. his arms drawn up to support the rest of his body, the pain coursing through his muscles. At least they had left him alone now, they had not interrogated him, but they had informed him of his punishment - the kiss of the guillotine would be the final embrace for him.


Closing his eyes he could not ignore the screams from some of the other cells as the other prisoners were beaten, interrogated and tortured.



* * * * * * * * * * * *

Back at the 'Bodice' the plans were underway. Sparkle and Delphy were doing some alterations to the cart to lighten it, HP was in the kitchen with Frenchy, the soldier was telling her how he could get the girls past a certain point into the barracks but then they would be on their own. If he was caught he would be sentenced to death, so it was up to all of them to make sure he wasn't. All traces of HP and Delphys involvement would also be cleaned away, that way there would be no retribution against them as it was here that Wytche had been taken captive.



Upstairs in HP's living room Silent and Mistress White were going through Whites plan and the items she had bought.

Silent lived up to her name with no sound coming from her until White pulled from a wooden chest what they were to disguise themselves with.

"No frikkin way White. No way, no how, never, nuh uh."

White looked at her friend with an evil smile.
"Come on Silent, you'll look so cute. We need to get past the guards and lets face it with these costumes no one will be looking at our faces."



She paused 'There'll be a reward of all the rum and grog you can drink Silent. Imagine it. So much for such a little time in the costume.'

Silent picked up her costume from the box, screwing up the urge to scream.
"It had better be good grog and rum and a hell of a lot of it to make me forget the pain of this costume.' Under her breath she added. "Wytchey if we get through this successfully I'm going to kick your skinny ass for this."

XD

I think you got me and my philosophy spot on here.

Presenting the three ladies of the darkness crew (Sparkle is a teenager so no cleavages or her yet)

Mistress White in a heaving cleavage corset.



Mistress Loaf in black and sexy lace.



And last but no means least (Drum roll!)
Mistress Silent in sugar plum pink and lace. I just know she'll love this upcoming chapter!



Three wenches ready for inspection and ready for a daring rescue.

Hmmm reminds me of Paris and the golden apple. Anyone got an apple?



Anyone???

*Screams and runs around flailing*

That's even worse than I thought! Sim Whitey REALLY owes my Selfsim big!

By the way, "Presenting the three ladies of the darkness crew (Silent is a teenager so no cleavages or her yet)" - Don't you mean Sparkle? I DEFINATELY have a cleavage.

Ooops quite right I meant Sparkle, I'll edit that.

Glad you like your new costume babes, maybe I'll let your sim keep it..

Evening slowly crept over the town, a curfew had been announced for the night and the next two due to the capture of the pirate. Curfew had started and soldiers were already patrolling the streets looking for those few who had dared to disobey the curfew. Taverns were still open but their clientele was light, only those who could pay for a room at the tavern were there.



The 'Unlaced Bodice' was one of the few that had stayed open, the guest rooms were booked and HP had even rented a spare room in her home to a regular customer. Delphy was down in the bar, the night was quiet enough for him to be tranquil alone.

HP and Chii were upstairs helping the wenches get ready, even the girl Sparkle was wearing a close fitting top, jewellery that glinted in the candlelight and a ton of make up. She was as always wearing comfortable trousers but the rest was ready to distract.

The other girls had changed completely, make up piled on, hair brushed and scented and cleavages plumped up to canyon effect. Mistress White was a vision in white lace and a tight corset pushing her already impressive bustline into fantasy boobs!

Loaf was more conservative in a black lacey affair.



As for Silent?

She went behind the dressing screen with her bundle of clothing and shoes. 5 minutes passed, then 10, then 15, the other girls were getting impatient.

"Silent are you ready yet? Do you need a hand?" HP looked up from the snack she had prepared.

"No, I'm fine. I've died and gone to Hell but I'm fine. I'll just stay here behind the screen until I fall unconscious."

HP looked at White and Loaf. "Is it that bad?"

White smiled "For Silent its a walking nightmare." turning to the screen White called out "Silent I'm giving you til the count of 3 to come out then I'll knock the damn thing down."

Silent swore. "Fine I'm coming. If you laugh I'll gut you like a fish."

Mumbling and groaning Silent came out from behind the screen. Clad from neck to toe in pale pink lace and frills, a sugar plum creation. She scowled at the others.



There was silence as the others took in the sight of Silent in pink, heavy make up. Then HP giggled. The giggle grew to a small laugh, then White joined in. Soon all the girls were laughing whilst Silent grabbed a bottle of rum from the table, bit off the cork and took a deep gulp from the bottle.

"I hate each and every one of you. White for buying this thing and most of all Wytchey for making this necessary."



All dressed and ready it was time for them to get into action.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Meanwhile at the barracks Captain Andros was sitting in his office alone, usually he would visit a brothel but tonight he had to guard the prisoner corridor, make sure no one was stupid enough to try and rescue anyone. But damn he had been looking forward to having a warm woman in his bed tonight.

He didn't know soon he would have 4 women in his office...

Sorry its been a while, readers might notice some of the photos have changed. My games were deleted and although a lot of my work and downloads were already backed up my pirate lots weren't. So I've recreated the scenes already done and at long last am ready to update.

Yay!

It was time to go, the women of the Darkness all said a fond farewell to HP, Delphy and Chii. There were a few tears shed as all present knew that if the escape went well it would be a long while before they saw each other again - no one wanted to even think about what would happen if they were caught.

Weapons were tucked into stockings and down cleavages, ready for easy access in case of trouble.

HP escorted the girls down to the cart, Delphy had attached the cover over the rear of the cart to hide the girls better and of course if all went well to keep Wytche hidden on their escape.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Sparkle was in position of driver, she was unencumbered by any clothing unlike the other girls. Mistress White took the seat beside her whilst Silent and Loaf hid in the covered rear of the cart.

No one spoke on the journey to the barracks, the atmosphere was tense, no one knew what would happen. They all had images in their head of what would happen if they were caught. The news that a guillotine had been erected in the town square was heavy on everyones minds.



They took the back streets to the barracks, the curfew made it even more dangerous for them to be out so they proceeded with caution. The only sounds in the night air was their breathing, the wheels on the cobbled streets and the occasional snort of one of the horses.

Before too long the dark stone walls of the barracks loomed before them, impenetrable or so it seemed. Sparkle drove the cart round a side street towards the pre-designated point of entry. It was a dark area at the rear of the barracks, here was where the waste of those inside the barracks was deposited and the smell here was of rotting waste both food matter and human waste of all kinds.

Mistress White signalled Sparkle to stop near a heavy barred entry. Motioning to the girl to wait hidden in the cart she and Silent descended from the cart and walked over to the doorway. Beyond the bars was a second door that led to the interior of the barracks. Quickly Mistress White gave the signal to their contact inside....

White tensed as she heard a lock being opened, then the door leading into the barracks opened. She could feel her heart pounding and knew Silent was feeling the same, both women instinctively put their hands near their nearest hidden knives.

The inner door opened and Frenchy looked out at them.

"You're all here?" he didn't wait for a response but took a large key chain from his belt, quickly he unlocked the outer barred door.



This metal door was stiffer to open than the first, a scraping squeal from the hinges put all of them on edge and they stood still and silent for a few seconds waiting to see if anyone would come. Nothing. They were safe for now.



Frenchy stood in the amber light of the lanterns and then as he turned to lead the girls inside he saw Silent.

"Oh my. Silent, such a sexy wench. Pink is very becoming on you." with a smile he let out a quiet whistle which earned him a rude hand gesture from Silent.



All of them except Silent were softly laughing as they moved through the barred doorway just behind Frenchy. However the laughter died as he closed the door behind them. There was no turning back now.

They were inside the belly of the beast, the Coalition barracks with over a hundred soldiers inside not to mention the clerks, clergy and nobility that were stationed here occasionally. The weight of their task seemed to press down for a few seconds, then they shook themselves and looked at one another.

White nodded "Time to get the Captain and get the frikk out of here girls. Frenchy you can leave us now, thanks for your help but you don't want to be around us from now on in."

Frenchy smiled and after kissing each of them on the cheek whispered 'Bonne chance mes belles' then he moved down a side corridor away from the one drawn on Whites map.

"Ok girls, follow me and for frikks sake keep sharp."



The corridors seemed almost endless but the rough map that White had been given didn't lead them wrong and soon they were at the doors to the prison office....

Captain Andros sat at the desk, nothing else was happening tonight, no action nothing. To occupy himself he had pulled out the staff documents to write up his reports and schedules, a task that was giving him a headache and boring him to tears.

A noise just beyond the stone arch that led to the office ante chamber made him raise his head. No one else was supposed to be on this level. Getting up from his chair he gasped as not one but four women entered the office. The first was a vision in a white dress with corset that gave her cleavage he just could not take his eyes away from.

Swallowing the saliva that had mounted in his mouth he addressed the busty woman.
"Ummm sorry ladies but this area is restricted. I don't know how you got in here but you'll have to leave."



White moved further into the room, with a wink to the flustered Captain, she had his name from Frenchy. The man hadn't once taken his eyes off her chest, wait til Loaf and Silent got into the light, the man would have a frikkin heart attack.

As if on cue Loaf and Silent joined her, Sparkle staying just a little further back.

Captain Andros could feel his heart pounding in his chest as if ready to explode. Where had these ravishing creatures come from? He knew they shouldn't be here but that was his brain talking and as the long haired brunette came closer it wasn't his brain making his decisions but a part of him much much lower.

White smiled, this would be easier than she had thought.
"Such a handsome, virile man left alone in this secluded office. It's a crime. At least the hierarchy certainly thought so, we've been sent to make your evening alot more interesting. It is Captain Andros isn't it?" as she spoke she moved closer and closer til she could place her fingers on his chest, which is just what she did. She could feel his heart pounding and see the beads of sweat on his brow.

"You were sent by the Commander?"

"Of course, how else would we - helpless, delicate womenfolk have been able to reach here?"



The Captain was so flustered, his thought processes gone South, the perfume of the woman in front of him, the glance of her breasts confined within the corset made his head swim. He didn't notice the three other women moving closer, each of them withdrawing a large knife from her garments.

Well he didn't notice until it was too late and the ravishing, sexual woman in front of him produced not one but two knives of her own.





At first he took it for a joke.
"Sweetheart, put that away before you hurt yourself, you don't need props with me."

White backhanded him, "Coalition pig, shut your filthy hole. I want the keys to the cells now. Do not make me ask a second time."

He realised he was in trouble but knew he had to stick to proceedure.
"There's no way I'm letting you trollops leave this room or get the keys. You'll have to kill me first."

White laughed. Quick as a wink she pressed one of the large, shapr blades against the Captains pants, firmly against his still evident arousal.

"You can tell me where the keys are you scum or I can change your religion and make you into a woman. Your choice."



He looked at her face, there was no sign she wouldn't do exactly that. Proceedure be damned.
"They're in the chest behind the desk. Please, I'm begging you. Don't do anything I'll definitely regret."

White stayed quiet and motioned to Loaf and Silent. The two women came over and dragged the Captain to the prisoner chains hanging in front of the desk. It was a fitting place, usually a prisoner was chained here for interrogation.

White got the over to the doorway that lead into the prison area, keeping her voice low she told Loaf to search the chest for the keys. Then turning to Sparkle she gave the girl her instructions.

"Sparkle I need one of us to stay here and watch over that scumdog over there, if he manages to give an alarm we're all done for. I hate to ask you to be the one to stay here - you're still so young and all."

Sparkle sniffed "I'm not a child White. I'll make sure the pig stays silent, don't worry. You just bring back the Captain and we'll be fine."

White smiled and watched as Sparkle dragged a chair away from the desk to keep a better eye on her captive, the knife that all the crew carried was on her lap within quick reach. The girl was definitely one of them, ready to defend herself and her fellow crew.







Loaf had dug around in the chest and withdrawn some bags of gold that they would come back for but also a large iron key chain that she grabbed hold of. Joining the others she wished Sparkle 'Good Luck' and got ready to enter the prison proper.



Sparkle watched the others leaving, she was ready to make sure her captive stayed quiet but she couldn't help but be worried about the others. For a few seconds she watched the doorway they had used, their footsteps echoing from the stairs leading to the cells below....

Upon leaving Sparkle the other three proceeded with caution down the darkened stone steps that led into the cell area. Reaching the bottom level there were three passages to choose from, they knew from Frenchy that Wytche was being held in the 'VIP' section straight ahead so they did not hesitate.

Just the entry was depressing, the signs of the prisoners that had been brought through were all too evident. The smell of fear, helplessness and cruelty seemed to linger in the air, it was aided all too well by the sight of rusting manacles on the wall. They tried to ignore the cheap caskets lined up against one wall, ready for those prisoners who died under 'interrogation'.



Pushing open the wooden doors to the cell area proper the smell grew stronger, now tinged with the acrid odour of stale sweat and metallic hint of blood. Even in the dull torchlight they could see the blood stains on the walls and floor, the humidity down here was strong as was the heat.

It was Silent who spotted Wytche first, in the further most cell, his wrists shackled above him. He had his eyes closed and was not moving.



The three women went forward quickly but cautiously, it looked that as they had been told there were no guards down here but information changed and incautious pirates were soon dead. Yet the fear for their Captain went unspoken between them as they looked through the bars at his barely breathing figure.



White held the key chain in her cold hands, then unlocked the cell door. The smell of human waste in here was almost overpowering, yet Wytche seemed clean enough, except for the welts on his arms where the shackles bit into his flesh.

At the unlocking of the cell door Wytche spoke.
"Time already? Guess I shallfind out if theres a God soon enough. If I go downstairs instead I shall make sure old nick spares a seat for coaltion scum."

He spoke without opening his eyes. White moved into the cell with Loaf and Silent, at her words Wytche opened his eyes.



"Sorry to bum you out Wytche, but you'll not be meeting either one anytime soon. But you'll feel my boot up your skinny arse once we've unchained you. I told you to be careful of a fair face."

Moving forward she had to ask Silent to boost her up a little to unlock the shackles.



As they unchained him Wytche smiled painfully, "Ah yes the sweet tones of White. I may honestly say I missed you." His words came out soft then he yelped. White had been true to her word and kicked him in his ass, softly but enough to let him know he'd been an idiot.

Wytche gently rubbed his raw wrists, "Girls I do not know how to thank you. I can't believe you came. I never dared hope." his wods were cut off with another yelp as White kicked him a second time but a little harder this time.

"Thats for not believing in the loyalty of crew and above all friends. Men are such idiots."

"Sparkles not here? Is she back on the ship?"

"No she came with us to save your scrawny ass, she's upstairs guarding the guard. She's a tough kid that one." Silent scowled. "If White hadn't already given you two kicks I would give you one myself right now. Look at the horror I've been forced to wear."



Wytche looked her over and smiled. "If I had known such loveliness would be arriving I would never have started flirting with old Sid there."

"Who the hell is Sid?"

He laughed hoarsely, "The only guy skinnier than me." he pointed towards the other end of his cell, the skeletal remains of a former occupant lay near the wall.



White and the others shuddered.
"Lets get the hell out of here, grab Sparkle and board the 'Darkness' Loaf was definite.

The others agreed and with White bringing up the rear the four of them entered the main area of the prison again, Wytche surrounded by his crew as he was the only one unarmed.



Yet they hadn't got far when Wytche said "Stop."

The others looked at him in surprise.
"Wytche, we have to get out of here now. Our luck won't hold this good for long."

"No, we can't leave yet. We have to take her with us."

White resisted the urge to kick him a third time.
"Who the hell is 'she'?".....

Wytche stared into the glaring countenance of White. His whole body ached from the treatment he had received here from his captors, he knew they should leave immediately but he could not leave the woman he had heard alone.

"I do not know who she is." he confessed. "But she is in in a cell close, in this area she has got to be someone important. I heard some of the guards say she hadn't broken yet but that they planned to use her sexually to see if that wouldn't obtain them the answers they need. White we can't leave her, or anyone to that sort of future." Wytche put his hand on his first mates shoulder "Please White."



White almost growled "Fine, fine. Loaf and I shall go check out your damsel in distress. You stay here with Silent and I swear if you annoy me anymore I shall snap you like a twig. Got me?"

"Got you." Wytche smiled, his first mate had a tough exterior and a heart of liquid gold.

Silent pulled him towards the entry hall of the cells area whilst White and Loaf moved to the cell he had pointed out. Sure enough there was a young blonde woman shackled in a cell less than half the size of the one Wytche had been in. Her hair was loose and dirty but not as dirty as her stained garments.



They had the cell door open quickly enough and the shackles were a pin lock system, easy unto open if you knew how and weren't the one being held by them.

"Ok, I do not know who the hell you are, nor do I care but we're taking you out of here. But I promise you one thing, if you slow us down or try anything foolish then I shall gut you like a fish." White's words were harsh, however the blonde woman was soon free.

"I am Tigerlilley, I promise you Mistress that I shall do my best not to hamper your movements, all I want is to leave this place. The coalition are no friends of mine."



Loaf smiled "Named after a flower I think."

The three women left the cell then joined Silent and Wytche.
"Ok, we ready to get the hell out of here, or do we have more waifs and strays to pick up first? Not that I don't love being here of course but hey thats just me." White did not wait for a response but motioned for Silent and Loaf to take the lead whilst she stayed at the rear of their small group with Tigerlilley beside her. Wytche of course was still in the middle.



The small group entered the entryway of the cell area, then froze as they heard someone descending the stairs ahead of them. Loaf, Silent and White all moved into position of attack, their blades ready...

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

While the rescue was taking place Sparkle was alone in the office upstairs, her captive chained and gagged. Nothing was happening, but she didn't let her concentration slip, a good thing as she heard someone approaching the office door.



Earlier, just after the others had left she moved a chest to discover some rations inside, now she moved quickly to where the chest had been, just beside the archway that led into the office proper. A bottle of rum was close by and she got ready to pick it up to bring down on the head of whomever was entering.

It was a tall blonde soldier, unaware that anything was happening, he was carrying a plate of hot food, obviously for the man she now held captive.



As the man drew nearer she grabbed the bottle of rum, he entered the archway and the heavy glass bottle crashed into his head sending him to the floor, the dish he was carrying falling from his hands and breaking. Wasting no time Sparkle hit him in the head twice more sending him into unconsciousness.



Now she had two captives, looking over at the man chained up she knew she could not stay here. If the blond soldier was missed then others would come to find out why. She needed to slow any new soldiers down and then warn the others.

First she dragged the unconscious soldier deeper into the room, watched all the time by the chained man. Then she moved back to the archway, there was a large, heavy and hopefully strong cabinet near the arch. Moving to the small gap beside it she braced her back against the cold stone wall and pushed with all her strength.

Nothing. The cabinet did not move so much as an inch.



With a scream of frustration she brought her legs up, locked her feet against the cabinet and pushed, her muscles screaming, sweat beading on her face but the cabinet moved!

After a few minutes of struggle and aching muscles she had the cabinet in front of the archway, it would slow people down at least.



Using some rope she discovered in the chest she had moved earlier she tied the blonde soldiers hands and feet then with a final look at the room left quickly to join the others....

The tension in the little grew was almost heavy enough to cut as the person in the stairwell got ever closer. White, Loaf and Silent being the only ones with weapons had moved to strategic places near to the door without being too close and a danger to themselves.



Sweat beaded on foreheads, not just from the tension but also the heat which down here was becoming intollerable.

When Sparkle moved through the archway it was lucky she had been close to the edge of the stone arch or she might have lost a limb or even her life to her own crew mates.



White let out a breath she didn't even know she had locked into her bosom. "Sparkle, OMG girl you scared the crap out of us all. Whats wrong? Why are you down here?"

Sparkle quickly explained how the second soldier had entered the office but she had subdued him, however that way of escape was now blocked to them. White shook her head, "Its not your fault Sparkle, at least you bought us enough time to use the emergency exit Frenchy has marked for us. Its not going to be pleasant but it'll get us all out of here in one piece."



Quickly she led them all through another section of the cell area, it opened into a long narrow passage where the dirt was appalling but nothing compared to the smell around them.

"OMFG" groaned Silent, "Where the hell are we? This is truly disgusting."

White turned to look at her briefly "This darling is where the bits and pieces the coalition don't use end up, along with personal waste and all that pleasantness."

Silent gagged "You mean we're walking into the sewer area of the barracks? Ok don't anyone touch anything, not the walls, nothing." She grimaced "At least I don't have to worry about my clothes, this pink evil is being burned when we finally get the hell out of here."



True enough the passage opened into a small room, rubbish and other decaying matter was strewn about only adding to the repulsive decor and odour. White led them to a sewer outlet that led outside the building, rotting boards covered the entry and a foul smell hit them all as they looked into the darkness of the outlet, dirty brownish/green water trickled downwards.

"Ummm White, please tell me you're kidding. We're not seriously leaving though there?" Wytches voice was almost pleading but he knew as they all did that there was no other choice.



Silent who was standing closest to the only other access to the room suddenly motioned for them all to be quiet. Footsteps could be heard approaching from an unseen passage. Not yet here but close.

"Theres not time for us all to get down there. White take Wytche, Sparkle and the blonde. Loaf and I will give whoever that is a welcome they won't forget and then we'll join you."



**********************************************************
**********************************************************

White looked at her friend, there was no other way.
"Be careful Silent and you too Loaf. We don't want to lose friends, there aren't enough of us. Get rid of them and get down to us or by the elder gods I'll come back up here and slap you silly."

Loaf and Silent smiled then almost pushed the others into the sewer outlet. Once Sparkles (The last to leave) had disappeared they drew their swords and faced the stone archways.

**********************************************************
**********************************************************

Silent smiled, at least she wasn't bored.

Into the archway walked two soldiers, they were carrying refuse and hadn't yet seen the two wenches.

Loaf whispered to Silent 'Cool, one for each of us.'


The men walked into the room, instantly upon seeing the girls they smiled and thought their luck might be in, then they saw the swords, drawing their own swords they moved towards them.



"Now, now girls, put the swords away or we'll have to hurt you and it would be such a pity to damage such beautiful skin when we could be enjoying it elsewhere, if you'd like to join us in the dorms?"

Silent spat. "Ignorant pig, the only ones getting damaged tonight will be you two scum dogs. After you've tasted our blades lets see if you're capable of anything else."

With a snarl the two girls moved forward, blade met blade, there were curses, grunts and sweat. The girls were excellent at weapons but the soldiers were coalition trained so their strengths were matched. The end of this fight was by no means certain.



The clang of metal seemed to ring in the air, both girls seemed to enjoy the fight, able to release their pent up aggression.





Then there was a cry of pain, and a whimper. Loafs blade had met its mark deep in the chest of the soldier in front of her. As the man fell to the ground she backed up, killing was never fun, never pleasant but always a part of life especially for a pirate. Tears stung her eyes as the un-named soldier died. Another life lost to the coalition.



Silents blade had likewise found its mark, in the silence after the fight the two girls looked at each, sweat dripping from their faces, the handle of their swords hot in their grip. They could almost see the figure of the Soul reaper himself in the room with them.



**********************************************************
**********************************************************

With a subdued air the two pirates moved to the sewer outlet and slid into the darkness that had swallowed the others.

dirt, filth, excrement, rotting food stuffs and other foul things brushed past them as the outlet turned into a sort of slide leading downwards at speed.

All too soon it ended, they were higher up than they had expected. Shooting out of the outlet they flew through the air then joined the others in a swamp like pool of filth and debris at the foot of the barracks wall.

All were still present, unhurt, unscarred and stinking....

Having used the emergency 'exit' there was no way that they could return to the wagon that they had left near the barracks. Footsore, painful and unbelieveably filthy they started to walk. White took the lead with Silent and Sparkle bringing up the rear, in between was the rest of the crew and Tigerlilley, both Tiger and Darkwytche were both barefoot but neither said a word.

A strong wind chilled them to the bone but brought some comfort by blowing the stench that clung to them away in little gusts.

White stopped after almost an hour of walking, "We're almost there. Its too late and too dangerous to try and get back to the 'Darkness' so we're heading to the safe house on the coast. We'll be safe there for the night and thankfully theres a bath so we can get out of these rotting clothes and bathe."

That said the little group kept walking and twenty minutes later hit a deserted area of the coast, the safe house stood cold and firm against the wind, the sea and time. Once a family home it was owned by the crew of the 'darkness' but had rarely been used.



There was no need for a key but it took the shoulders of Loaf and Silent against the front door to open it with a loud shriek. Inside the house was cold and dirty but made them all feel happier. There was even a chest of clothes left here from when they last used the house. So taking it in turns they all quickly washed in the small bathroom, the old wooden bathtub was filled and refilled with hot water boiled in the stone fireplace and soon everyone was clean.

Silent held the remains of her pink outfit, "We need to get warm, out back we'll light a fire on the beach, I know just what we can use for fuel."

Sure enough they all cast their filthy garments into the driftwood fire Silent built, and were soon warming themselves by the flames.



After a good hot meal most of the crew needed sleep, the adventure had made them all beyond tired. Loaf and Tiger took the small bedroom on the top floor, the bed linen smelt musty but were clean and comfortable, the two women were soon fast asleep.

Downstairs by the fire Silent had curled up on the old sofa and fell asleep, her belly full of hot food and some rum she had happily found in one of the old packing crates. Sparkle was asleep on the hammock they had unpacked from another crate. Silence reigned.







Only White and Darkwytche were still awake, quietly they shared a meal. They needed to post a watch for the night, Wytche had insisted on being first as it was his fault they were here in the first place. White had decided to keep him company - at least until she had finished her meal then she pulled two old armchairs together and was soon asleep herself. She had made Wytche promise to wake her in a couple of hours so he too could rest but for now he was alone listening to the soft breathing of the sleeping members of his crew. The brave women of the 'darkness' who had risked so much to rescue him from his own stupidity. They were all dear to him, he considered them not just friends but family and made a vow to himself that in the future he would be much more careful and would somehow reward the girls for their courage and loyalty.

Hi all

Coming up in the next update is another MTS chat regular, the lovely Cthru. I'll add a photo of her self sim here asap.

Hugs

The sun rose softly beyond the horizon lighting up the house and through the dirt and salt encrusted windows cast shafts of lights in which dust motes danced. The night before all of them had had a well deserved rest and after eating a hearty breakfast they were more than ready to board the ‘Darkness’.



Unwilling to head back into town they wandered along a cliff path, it was unused and overgrown but the wildlife gave them excellent cover as they approached the cove where the longboat was hidden. As they walked they couldn’t help but think of the coalitions response to the escape. Even at this early hour of the morning the Lady Lethe was undoubtedly already there ready to pass her judgement, her anger was already legendary after the escape of the two prisoners it would only be worse.






**************************************************

Indeed the wrath of the female coalition noble was terrible. She had arrived early in the town square in her comfortable carriage, accompanied by a visiting noble known only as Comtesse Cthru, when she had arrived and found that the barracks were in disorder she had summoned the commanding officer and then taken over his office as her own. The man stood before her trembling, so far she was unaware of the events of yesterday and in front of the fearsome Lady Lethe, her secretary and even her noble guest the man was unwilling to be the one who informed her.





He was right to be afraid, after he had explained how the two soldiers had been found in the office and then the consequent escape of the pirates the Coalition Lady exploded.
«*We have waited so long to capture that creature and you allowed him to escape? Coalition soldiers allowed a group of women to enter the prison without question, with arrestation and were then unarmed and chained? The men concerned will of course be punished. The punishment that was in store for the Pirate Captain will suffice, it will be a warning to all our soldiers.*»





The commanding officer could only nod in fear, his two men would taste the guillotine later in the place of the pirate. Slowly he handed the Lady a second parchment which detailed the escape also of the blonde female prisoner. As she read it her face turned a ghastly white, in a harsh whispered voice she ordered the soldier and the Comtesse Cthru to leave the office, then it was just herself and her secretary.

«*How did those disgusting pirates know exactly which prisoner to take along with their accursed Captain? The captain is no lover of women so it was not for her beauty she was taken along. We had not yet broken her, the secrets she held she still holds and she would not be stupid enough to fall for a coalition capture a second time.*»

The secretary trembled, she knew the identity of the blonde haired female prisoner and she knew also that only she, Lady Lethe and the Commanding officer knew.

«*Write a parchment immediately for the Citadel, the Council must be informed of her escape, we may still be able to save face in this. Of course heads will roll for her loss and for that of the pirate, in fact we must inform the public that the soldiers are being punished only for the escape of the pirate, we must blend the female prisoners escape into the background.*»



Quickly but clearly she dictated a letter to the secretary who would then entrust it to a secret messenger, Lady Lethe then left the office and took breakfast in a luxuriously appointed parlour, Comtesse Cthru was her guest.



**************************************************

Meanwhile the crew and the mysterious Tigerlilley had regained the ‘Darkness’ and had set sail out of the waters of the town and towards the city of Fayencia where they would trade their booty under a disguise, one of many times they had already done so. Fayencia was so enormous with its endless winding markets that the coalition had no hope of finding them, but the chance of being recognised and handed over for the rewards offered was also much too high, hence the need for disguises.

Everyone was back in their usual garments, even their guest was dressed in pirate clothing, her blonde hair tied back as she stood on the foredeck mulling over her escape. She had asked the pirate Captain to leave her in Fayencia, undoubtedly when she announced where in the city she would like to be left there would be questions but none she could answer safely until she had returned to the Island of Ma’at, her home Country.





Out in the open seas freedom was tangible and the darkness, the pain and the misery of the coalition prison was almost forgotten but of course the treatment Wytche and Tigerlilley had received there would stay with them for a long time to come. The Captain was alone on the bridge, watching over his ship and the endlessly curling waves, he had been asked to be left alone for a while - his crew were all busy at other duties anyway. His inner reflections were not for sharing, his moment of lust had almost cost them dearly and he would make it up to the girls at some point, the sooner the better in his mind.



The voyage to Fayencia usually only took a day and a half, but with the escape they knew there would be more coalition vessels, therefore they had to take a longer route that would take them almost 5 days, then the ‘Darkness’ would be concealed and a small merchant vessel they had stored would be used to enter Fayencia to trade their booty.

It was a few days of constant lookout, the watches were lengthened and at night the lamps were dimmed more than usual but they made it to the concealed cove safely and then boarded the merchant vessel after stowing their cargo.

Fayencia, one of the largest market cities of the free trading system not yet corrupted by Coalition control. Of course they still had to be careful, especially after the escape. Before joining the market harbour they anchored their small boat just outside and quickly changed. Head scarves and loose robes for all the women, loose tunic, trousers and head scarfing for Wytche. Soon they were ready to enter the city and meet their contact in the Merchants Guild, it was also here where they would part ways with Tigerlilley.




Tigerlilley of course was dressed like the other women. In her few days onboard the ‘Darkness’ she had gained their friendship if not their trust.

Before heading to the merchants Guild they decided to stop for drinks at a small tavern, once seated they discussed where Tigerlilley wanted them to leave her. Her response surprised them.



‘The libraries of Ahhotep, please.’

The others sat and stared open mouthed at her. The Libraries were famous throughout the World, along with the Isles of Ma’at they were one of the few truly sacred places that even the Coalition respected in their antiquity and tranquil sanctity. Named after the ancient Queen of Freedom the Ahhotep Libraries held a grand temple, chambers for the priestesses, consulting rooms, delicate gardens and of course the libraries themselves. The most complete collection of written works in the World. It was said that all travellers were welcome there although the pirate crew had never entered.

‘You are quite sure? Its true they will let you enter but they d not give sanctuary to all who ask. They have a strong code of entry.’

Tigerlilley smiled. ‘I’m certain. I just ask that you take me there, after that we can part as friends.’





For the rest of their time at the tavern the pirates speculated quietly on her place of choice. After lunch they made their way through the markets towards the famous libraries on the other side of the harbour.

The entrance was immense and simple, three immense doorways led inside flanked by Gryphon statues.



Only the central doorway was open, they entered a cool chamber in white stone, guards flanked a doorway leading onwards into the complex. As they approached the guards a shaven headed priestess came out of the archway.



‘Welcome. I must ask that before you go further to relinquish any weapons you may have. There after you may enter in peace.’

The crew were reluctant t hand over their blades but in this sacred place they did so, watching carefully as one of the guards locked them in an ornate chest before offering the key to Wytche.




Smiling the Priestess thanks them and then led the way through the arches into a floral courtyard. Leading them to a group of chairs she waited for the to sit before asking why they had come. It was Tigerlilley who answered.
‘I wish to see the High Priestess Nekhbet.’
Even the Priestess was surprised.

‘I will ask if she will agree to see you. If you will wait here with your companions I will return shortly.’

The few minutes she was gone passed in silence, the small group wondering what on earth was happening. When the Priestess returned she was no longer smiling.




‘If you will follow me. She has agreed to meet with you in her chambers.’

At the doorway to the chambers were sx statues facing them. At their approach the statues eyes opened and glowed a deep crimson.

The Priestess stopped still, the others instinctively did the same. What kind of magic was at work here?
A low growling came from the statues as if from some live beast.

‘Stand in a line before the guardians’ commanded the Priestess.

Slowly and with pounding hearts they did so. A few moments passed then the statues eyes became blue and the growling stopped.

The Priestess smiled. ‘You have been judged and found to be pure of heart. You may enter.’

With that she left them alone and the doors to the chambers of the High Priestess opened of their own accord.




The chamber was roomy and hexagonal in form, ornate lamps gave off perfumed flames, there were marble couches in the centre of the room and seated there was a tall, tanned dark haired woman. She rose to greet them.
‘I am Nekhbet, Priestess of the Dual Goddess. Welcome.’



Tigerlilley moved forward and gave a respectful bow.
‘I come with an pen heart, pure of spirit and open to liberty. In the presence of the Dual Goddess I request sanctuary and safe passage.’


Nekhbet smiled, ‘You know the ancient words of sanctuary my lady. May I ask who you are?’

In reply Tigerlilley removed her head scarf. Nekhbet nodded.
‘Your companions also?’


‘No my friends are just a hardworking crew, they brought me here to entrust into your care.’ Turning to the others she motioned for them to remove their scarves. When they did so Nekhbet laughed in delight.

‘My lady, forgive me but the crew of the legendary ‘Darkness’ are more than just a hardworking crew.’ Seeing the pirate crews concern she added.
‘Please do not worry. No one here but myself will know who you are. The stories of you do not lie, if they had you would never have been able to pass the guardian spirits. I am honoured to have such company.’



Within a few minutes they had said their good byes to Tigerlilley, ensuring she would be cared for then they re-donned their disguises and walked back through to the main entrance where they quickly regained their weapons before entering into the outside world once more.

After leaving the peace of the Libraries they found the noise of the markets harsh. It took a good half an hour to readjust to their suroundings. After seeing their contact at the Merchants Guild, organising the offloading of their cargo and doing a little personal shopping of their own they were more than ready to head back to the ‘Darkness’.

Soon they were setting sail for Monin Cove, their home….

**************************************************

End of the first adventure - but don’t worry there’s another one coming up straight away. Been having a bit of trouble over here but its almost sorted so look forward to another adventure featuring more chat members including Renske and Emino!

Hugs
:lovestruc

Hi all

What with everyday life etc I haven't had time til now to start teh second adventure. Happily its about to start, and being almost the month of Halloween this tale has a darker side.

Look out for more chat regulars including the arrival of Renske as a dark sorceress!!!

Enjoy

Darkwytche

It had been more than three months since the escape of Wytche and although they were all happy in the secluded bay where they lived boredom was beginning to settle in slowly. Not aided by the fact that there were some items that could not be created by the other occupants of the bay mostly tradesmen and prisoners rescued from the Coalition just as Wytche had been.



The next morning they were all due to meet in the dining room of Wytches house, it was at the edge of their small community with its lookout tower casting an eye over the entrance harbour.

They wanted to decide on where to set sail for this time, each time it was a group decision, of course Wytche as the Captain had the final say, but he had remained Captain of their vessel by listening to his crew.



However, the afternoon before they were due to meet there was a visitor at Mistress Whites home, a visitor who would send them on one of their most interesting and dangerous adventures.....

White had been sitting in her lounge engrossed in one of her books, a hot drink nearby on the side table. She had just got up to light a fire for the approaching evening when she heard the knock on the door.



Adding the already lit match to the fire place kindle she stood up and went to answer the door. Usually people visited her either in the morning or late in the evening, her visitor surprised her even more. It was Ramona Walker, one of the eldest residents in Monin Cove, she and her brother Tomas had been rescued from a coalition prison ship a couple of years ago. They had been arrested by the Coalition and beaten, Tomas for a crime he had not commited and Ramona for supposedly hiding a criminal.

Although Tomas was a lively man even given his advanced age Ramona was a church fearing woman who had taken some time to fit into the community of Monin cove. The lack of a real church had not helped the woman ease in but other members of their small village had built a small stone shrine for her personal use and prayer and she had proven to be a strong, loyal and trustworthy member of the community even if quiet in her manners.



"Ramona, what brings you here? Not that I'm not happy to see you, come in please."

"Thank you Miss White. I come bearing sad news but I can sit a few minutes with you."

The two women re-entered Whites lounge and after seating by the now burning fire White asked what was wrong.

"It's Tomas. He's close to his time, he's the only family I've got left and soon he'll join the others."

White felt a lump form in her throat, she more than any other resident of Monin cove was close to the old man, they had shared stories and more than a few bottles. If he really was dying she wanted to go to him, let him go with friends around him.

"He wants me to bring you to see him Miss White. He says only you, and you alone. Please."

Of course White couldn't refuse and after pushing a black metal screen in front of the fire she followed Ramona to the small stone cottage she shared with her brother.

Ramona led her to the side of the house where Tomas' bedroom was located. Tomas looked at his sister from his bed and smiled.
"Thank you Ramona. I want you to stay and hear what I have to say to Whitey. She'll make sure you're looked after once I'm gone. What I have to say to you will empty the guilt I've carried for so long and maybe the angels will carry me up."

Ramona took a stool by the bedroom door and asked White to take the more comfortable cushioned chair near to the bed.

White looked at her old friend.
"Tomas, what ever you need to say surely it isn't too important? You can go with a good heart my friend."

Tomas shook his head.
"No girl. It needs to be said and if you take up my request you, the crew and Ramona will be richer than Midas ever dreamt. But I need to tell you I lied, all this time we've known each other I've lied to you."



White stayed silent.

"The crime I was on the prison boat for when you found me and Ramona, I was guilty. I did steal, only once for personal gain the other times God will understand I did it for my family. But the once just for myself." He looked at Ramona.

"Get the small wooden box out from under my bed will you? Give it to White."

Once the box was in her hands White opened it slowly, inside were two pieces of old parchment, one seemed to be a torn map and the other a letter of sorts.

Tomas smiled "What you hold there Whitey is worth more than all the teasure of the Coalition. Its a map, in part any to the caverns of Tartarus and the wealth of the elders."

White gasped, "Tomas, the caverns of Tartarus are a myth as is the treasure, a tale to tantalise drunkards and scare small children. They say the caverns are...."

Tomas finished "The caverns are the realm of demons and damned souls. But they are real Whitey I've seen them, but only a glimpse. What you hold there is part of the only true map, the other is a letter to open you to the one who holds another part of the map and the power you need to enter the caverns. Will you grant me dying wish Whitey? Will you find the caverns and if pure of spirit enter them and bring back the treasure?"

White smiled "Its a foolish tale Tomas nothing more." but upon hearing her friend gasping for breath and knowing he had little time left she agreed.
"All right Tomas I'll do it, alone if needs be but hopefully I can persuade the others to come with me. Rest easy my friend, rest with a clear heart."



A few seconds later Tomas looked at his sister, she came forward and read the last rites from her bible. A smile crossed his lips and he drew his last breath.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

An hour later the other crew members and people from the cove had come to pay their respects. The funeral would be held in the morning, like most people here Tomas had wanted to be cremated on a funeral pyre, they would see this done.

As they left the cottage White told Wytche they needed to have a meeting of the crew after the funeral, to honour Tomas' last request. Of course due to the nature of his request she would keep silent until the morning, she didn't want her Captain think she was going soft believing in old tales....

The next day as was custom the funeral pyre was lit at dawn and the whole community of Monin cove were gathered to say good bye to Tomas. That evening there would be a torch lit east in the heart of their small village to celebrate the life of Tomas. Whiterider had kept the knowledge that he had commited the crime to herself.

Of course when she went to Wytches house later she was ready to explain the whole story.
"Wytchey I saw Tomas last night before he passed and he asked me to honour a last request."

"Thats normal White, you were the closest to him. But you look worried what on earth was his request?"

"I'd rather wait til the other girls get here to explain, its bizarre enough to repeat once let alone twice or three times. I need to leave these two documents here so we can look into his request at least."

With that she placed the two rolled pieces of parchment onto the dining table.



**************************************************

The other girls arrived pretty quickly, Wytche listened to her story of Tomas and his last request, the drinks he was pouring for them all over flowed. But it was Silent that laughed.

"Tartarus? White be serious my mother told me tales of Tartarus to try to make me be a good girl when I was small. They don't exist. You really want us to go on a pointless search for something that doesn't exist?"



"He was so convinced Silent, that he had really seen them. Then there's this letter, whatever language its written in its not one I reognise, its almost like a form of hieroglyphs."

Wytche joined them all at the table. He held his hand out silently for the letter.

Silent smiled "White please, some of the things I've seen when I've had a bit too much rum have seemed real that doesn't mean they were. If they were there'd be an awful lot of scary looking elephants out there."

Even Sparkle was laughing, tales of Tartarus were jut that - tales. Stories to excite and terrify.



White rolled her eyes, "What about the map? The letter?"

Silent picked up the worn and half destroyed map "This could be a map of anything White or nothing at all. Be serious theres no real proof here." her words were cut off by Wytche.

"The letter is authentic Silent. Like you've all noticed its not written in any normally used language thats all."

Silent looked at him, "Authentic? How on earth can you tell?"

"Its written in an alphabet I haven't seen since my Grandmother died, its called Theban Script or the witches alphabet. Its not by chance I'm named Wytche, it runs in the family."

"So what does it say?"

"No idea, I recognise the alphabet but haven't read it properly since I was alot younger. I've some books in my study though we should be able to find out before the feast if the letter is proof. But the fact its written in Theban script links it to the Craft."

**************************************************

There was silence for the rest of the time they were there, each lost in their own thoughts. After a short period of time the girls all said their good byes and promised to see each other at the feast. Wytche retired to his study and was soon lost in some very old books slowly translating the letter....

By late evening he had taken his search into the attic, it had been a while since he was up here. It was hot, stuffy and dusty.



However finally in an old Egyptian styled chest he found the books he had been searching for. Books that had belonged to the Grandmother of his grandmother, said to be a most powerful witch she had written not only her own grimoire and other works in Theban script but had provided a translation manuscript for those who followed in her footsteps.

Setting aside the grimoire and other books of the Craft Wytche sat on one of the old rugs and unrolled the translation scroll. After another hour of brainache he had translated the letter.


Now he could join the festival of the dead held in honour of the parted Tomas Walker. First though he needed a good wash....


**************************************************

The next morning he woke with an aching head, but he had to call the girls for a meeting. They would use the main meeting room of Monin Cove, no one else in the community would be using it today, most would be sleeping off the alcohol and good food from the night before. Indeed the girls of the Darkness were most likely sleeping off the effects themselves.

Waking White first was of course in order, he smiled to himself at what he imagined her reaction would be.

He was right of course, with much swearing and threats of breaking limbs and male parts White was persuaded out of her warm bed and under a bucket of cold water to clear her thoughts. Once dressed she helped get the other girls and soon the crew were ready to assemble in the meeting hall.



Silent yawned 'Ok Wytche, I hope this was worth dragging me out of my bed for. I was in the middle of an excellent dream, skimpy clothing, hot beaches and gallons of rum....'

'Yes Silent. It took me a while last night but I got it translated. It looks genuine enough, but if we make the decision to follow it then it needs to be total agreement from all of us as ever.'

'Read the translation then we can decide.'

-----------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------



As Wytche finished reading aloud the letter there was total silence around the table broken only by the sipping of coffee.

Silent placed her mug on the table and gazed across the table at Loaf.
'Sound like fun to you Red?'

Loaf smiled 'Hearts desire? Treasure? Terrors and temptations? Sounds fun to me.'

White looked around the table.
'Then as Wytche said we need to take the final vote. As always anyone who does not want to undertake something like this say so. We'll respect your decision and you will still be part of the crew.'

'Sparkle, you're the youngest so I'll ask you first. In or out?'

Sparkle felt her heart thumping as she always did before a voyage.
'In.'

'Silent?'

'In'

'Loafie?'

'In'

'Don't think I need to tell you I'm in, Wytche, the last vote is yours.'

'In. Lets get ready for a grand adventure ladies.'

Loaf looked around the table.
'The letter mentions protection, I'm guessing it means more than iron and steel. More magickal. Theres one woman I know that can help us.'

White stared at her.
'The Sorceress? I thought she was dead?'

'No, Renske just retired deeper into the jungle so as not to be disturbed. We'll need to take her something damn good to pay her for her help.'

Wytched nodded 'I have just the thing.'

'Then if no one has any further business we need to get some more rest. Tomorrow we'll need to get going. First step is the Jungles of Ceylane and the Sorceress Renske.'



With that they all left the meeting room to get ready for another grand adventure.

**************************************************

The next day saw them all fresh and ready on the small stone built harbour of Monin, provisions were ready on the quay and the longboat stood waiting.



Everyone was making final checks before the voyage, they had no idea how long it could take or what they might need but they would need speed as well so they couldn't just cram everything in.

At last the decision was made and the good ready to be transported through the shallow waters to the deeper where the 'darkness' lay in secrecy.



Soon they were onboard, it felt like returning home. After such a time back on land it took them a few hours to get their sea balance again.

Mistress White and Captain Wytche stood on the bridge deck checking the chart to the jungles and the course of the ship.



Sparkle, Silent and Loaf were on the main deck tying down equipment and preparing for the open seas.

Soon the ship was into the open seas with the strong winds filling the sails and the odour of the salt air pervading everywhere.

Presenting another regular of MTS Chat.

Renske!

Appearing here as the 'Sorceress Renske'



Huggles