Chaplen reclined in the chair in his study, thinking over what he knew of the Shadow Fox. Smiling, he closed his eyes. Ah, the thrill of the hunt. People of action like Long did not understand the intricacies of this game. He did not understand that Chaplen needed to discover the boy’s identity through the working of his own mind—not by grabbing his hood and yanking it off. Was it the more difficult way? Definitely. Then why do it the hard way? The answer was simple. It was a matter of pride.
True, he could just catch the boy in a well designed trap, then remove his hood. But, then, any fool could do that. With enough men, even Long could do that. Honestly, even the fool Howe could do that. After all, he had. Howe simply had not thought to remember the boy’s face. Fool, but that left the game to Chaplen.
And Chaplen did love this game. He had nearly captured the many times. The boy had been in his grasp, but he let the Shadow Fox slip through his fingers. Some would wonder why he bothered to play this game with a mere boy. The Shadow Fox’s age only made it more interesting. He was ever so clever and resourceful. To be honest, this boy was the most difficult enigma Chaplen had ever faced.
Too bad it was all about to end. It was nearly checkmate. Agent Chaplen only need the glue that would hold all the pieces together. This was the most elusive component of all, however. Nonetheless, he would discover it. He had the feeling it hovered just at the edge of his mind, waiting to be coaxed to the forefront—waiting to be the end of the Shadow Fox.
~~~~~
“Am I the only one who finds the fact that they hang people on the Boston Neck amusing?” Sovay queried.
Snow fell heavily around them.
“I am sure those who are in danger of hanging never think so,” Ben replied solemnly.
“And who do you know that is in danger of hanging?” Robyn asked.
Ben arched an eyebrow. “Do you forget so easily that should you ever fail to escape, you would hang?”
Robyn shrugged nonchalantly.
Ben groaned.
Apparently not listening to the current conversation, Alice commented on her clothing. “Breeches are so odd. When can I put a skirt back on?”
“Oh, honestly, Alice, they are far better than all those skirts.”
As the two bickered, the others discussed the Shadow Fox’s apparent lack of care for her own neck.
“Are you saying you do not see that as a possibility?” Jacob questioned.
“That’s rather cocky, do you not agree?” Jack murmured.
Robyn turned on him. “I do not need your input, Jack Richards,” she snapped. “I would like to remind you that you are currently not in my good graces.”
The group quickly fell silent, and remained that way until they reached the fortifications. After conferring with the lookouts, they were quickly escorted to General Washington.
He slipped out of his tent and made his way towards them. He was slightly surprised to see Jack Richards in their midst, but he paid it no mind. “My young friends, it is good to see you. What news? Does General Howe leave us in peace, or will he attack?”
The group dismounted, and Jack took the horses to be watered. Robyn spoke.“He will attack this very night with two thousand and four hundred troops.”
Washington sighed. “I will have to increase the troops to six thousand.” He looked up at the sky. “I think it would be best for you to stay here, tonight my friends. If fighting occurs, you can leave, but this snow could hold them off.” He called a lieutenant. “Please find some extra blankets for our young friends.”
The man saluted and strode off.
Washington looked at Robyn. “Could I speak to you, my young friend?”
Robyn followed him out of earshot of the little group. The general turned to face her. “I do not intend to be rude, my friend, but is it wise to let Mr. Richards back into your confidence?”
Robyn looked into the distance, thinking before answering. “I cannot say, general. However, I do think his intentions are sincere, this time.”
Washington nodded, thoughtfully. “What do you think caused the change?”
Robyn shrugged. She had done that quit a lot that evening.
“Perhaps,” the general mused, “he met some good friends and realized the importance of friendship.” He smiled at Robyn and clapped her on the back. “I hope for your sake he has turned over a new leaf. I will leave that judgment up to you.”
------
Hm, interesting.
I know, I know! I'm sorry. I haven't posted in two weeks. I have some really great excuses involving a family reunion with my mother's side (aptly nicknamed "D-day"), and an angry Russian assassin. However, I won't bore you with the details. So.... enjoy the chapter? I promise to attempt to be more regular. Also, notice the poll on the side. Please, vote, and thank you.
C.P. Out!
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