The Reaper's Kiss

by Robert Southworth

“And how did you require our assistance?” William asked.

  “Well...” Tallow began.

  “Enough!” Emily appeared at William’s shoulder. “This can wait until the morning. We have more guests arriving and they have come to celebrate Christmas with friends and family.”

  “You are quite right, Emily,” Simeon responded. “Gentlemen, this can wait until tomorrow.”

  ***

  London

  The snow drove the Londoners off the streets and into their homes. The less fortunate huddled in doorways and beneath bridge arches in an attempt to escape the biting cold. Even the unusually heavy downfall, however, could not put the mighty city to sleep. London’s heartbeat was reduced to a murmur, but its pulse was constant. Despite the reduced number of populace on the streets. A number of individuals still moved without attracting attention. They travelled as individuals, to a location that they, until that very night, were unaware of its existence. This was no luxury hotel or ornate country residence set in picturesque middle England. The building was located near the docks, far enough away to diminish the chance of prying eyes. Any closer and the constant hum of the employees working at the docks, risked its guests being observed.

  The main street gave way to an alley, which in turn surrendered to a secretive passage. As each traveller arrived, they slipped without hesitation through a doorway hidden by stacked barrels. The door led to the interior of a warehouse. Those that entered each encountered a strongly built man who was seemingly designed by God to break bones and bend others to his master’s will. The man-mountain did not speak. He simply handed each of the new arrivals a candle, then nodded in the direction that they must travel. The individuals did not question, meekly taking the pitiful source of light and walking into the interior’s gloom.

  At first, it seemed the warehouse was devoid of life; the darkness oppressive against the weak candlelight. Eventually, a dim glow appeared in the distance and with the passing of time that glow became a mass of individuals, carrying their own candle. The crowd had formed a circle, and a number of hooded figures had fashioned another within it. At the very centre, one figure held the attention of all without uttering a word. He stood rock-like without movement or sound, his stillness drawing their interest like flies to a rotting carcass. He waited until he could sense their eagerness to hang on his every word.

  “We find ourselves in troublesome times. The actions of Sir Rufus Thom’s offspring have placed our movement in jeopardy. Some of you joined in the clamour to destroy William Harkness and his men. I warned against such foolery. I fear that many gathered here will now pay the price.”

  “Then why do we not simply remove the threat?” a voice sounded from the crowd.

  “Ah - bloodlust. It’s a testament to your stupidity. Removing William Harkness now would serve no purpose. We have a far greater enemy in his father.” He held up a hand to prevent the next obvious statement that would come from the followers of Cronos. “Killing Sir Simeon Harkness would prove difficult and futile. He is a man of intelligence and will have instructed those that follow him to complete his wishes, even if he loses his life. There is no doubt in my mind that he would anticipate an attempt on his life.”

  One of the hooded figures of the circle spoke.

  “Then what course of action is open to us, Alpha?” The hood hid his face, but it could not hide the concern within his voice.

  “It is simple. We must discover what Harkness knows, and which of us has been placed in peril.”

  “Perhaps he knows nothing.”

  “Two months ago, men in the employ of Sir Simeon Harkness raided the offices of Edgar Finch in Johannesburg.” His words were met by gasps from the secretive audience. “As many of you know, Mr Finch has provided us with a legal shield against prying eyes. He has proven most adept at keeping Scotland Yard’s finest from our door. Nonetheless, it is important that we recognise that Edgar Finch is a loathsome, dishonest, grub of a man. He thinks only of his purse, and we cannot expect loyalty. We can be certain that Finch will talk. We can also be sure he will attempt to make a deal. He will release what he knows slowly. That gives us an opportunity to act.”

  “We must flee!” Another voice called out from the crowd.

  “The followers of Cronos do not flee. I am Alpha, and I shall lead us from the darkness that threatens to extinguish our light. We will not run, but we will fall back and wait for our enemies to make their mistakes. We shall eradicate any trace linking us to the disloyal Finch. My contact within Scotland Yard will keep us informed of Simeon and William Harkness, and how they prepare to move against us. Is that not so, Faraday?” He turned and took a step closer to one of his followers. The hooded figure directly to Alpha’s front cleared its throat.

  “It will be done, but how did you pick me out in the crowd?”

  “The hood covers the features of the face, Faraday. However, the missing digits on your left hand declare your identity to the world. Besides, I do not want this threat to prick your sense of duty. You are known to every single man and woman that stands in honour of Cronos.”

  “Have I not carried out your orders?” Faraday’s voice was filled with rage.

  “And that will continue.” Alpha turned from Faraday, his attention switching once more to the concerned followers of Cronos. “I have a plan for our tormentors, but it will take time. Until the moment of our deliverance we must retreat to the shadows.” There was a murmuring of agreement from the crowd. “Go to your homes and await instruction. Be vigilant and have faith in Cronos.”

  As the crowd began to break apart, Alpha watched as individual candles bounced in the darkness as their owners picked their way towards London’s night air. He could not help feeling bored with the fools. He had decided months before that the followers of Cronos had outgrown their usefulness. It was nearing the time to remove them from his life.

  “Faraday, I have tasks for you. “

  “You should not have revealed my identity. Faraday’s tone was harsh.

  “Many that make their way from this place are loyal to me. Others have Cronos in their hearts and minds. You are here because you have no choice. Given half a chance you would cut my throat and enjoy the act.”

  “I am not like you – I do not enjoy taking another’s life.”

  “Then you had best ensure that you complete your tasks in all haste,” Alpha snapped. For a moment, silence hung in the air like a slaughtered beast. Then Alpha raised a hand containing a note. Faraday reluctantly took it and read the words on its surface.

  “What is this?”

  “It is a location that I am sure is not known to Edgar Finch. You will ensure that it is ready for my arrival.”

  “Surely, there are others best suited to this...” Faraday was not permitted to finish.

  “Consider it a test of your loyalty, Inspector.” Alpha raised a hand and grasped Faraday by the jaw. “The location would be better if the current residents were no longer present. They should be removed, and not given the opportunity to complain.” Faraday’s eyes widened as it became evident what he was being asked to do. “You may not enjoy killing, Faraday, but if I instruct to do so, then you will commit slaughter. Be quick for I have another task that will require all of your skill.”

  Chapter 6

  Emily was undoubtedly stirred from her slumber by the unmistakable sound of William attempting to get dressed without creating noise. He had wanted to leave before she woke but the previous night’s consumption of alcohol deprived him of his usual nimbleness. His head and body hurt in equal measure, but a task lay before him, and he would not be found wanting.

  “What are you doing up so early?” Emily asked.

  He winced knowing that he had failed in avoiding an awkward conversation. “I have a task to complete. It will not take long, and I will be back before dinner.”

  “It is supposed to be a celebration William. Could it not wait for a few days?”

  “I wish with all my heart that it could, my love
.” He crossed the room and brushed the hair from her eyes. “I promise that the day will still be young when I return.” He moved away and collected the pepperbox pistol from the cupboard. As he checked the weapon was loaded, he felt the glare of Emily’s eyes upon him, he raised his head to meet her stare. “There is no danger, but it never hurts to be prepared.” He gave a smile in an attempt to reassure. Emily raised herself from the bed and began to pull on her gown. “What are you doing?”

  “I will not laze in bed as you march off to all manner of dangers. I can at least make you some breakfast.”

  “I haven’t time.”

  “Then I can kiss you goodbye.”

  “But you can do that here.”

  “William, do I tell you how to run around London and smack heads?” she snapped.

  “Smack heads?” William could not help smiling at Emily’s unusual choice of words.

  “It seems that Gossup’s colourful language is rubbing off on me. Why are you laughing? You think I am just weak and feeble unable to survive outside this bubble of luxury.”

  William pulled her close and let his hands explore her body. “You are certainly not weak, and I do not doubt that you could survive. Although,” he smiled mischievously, “you would have to use your more impressive skills.”

  “William Harkness, you are a pig. I pity your poor son with you as a father figure.”

  “Can I help being bewitched by your body?”

  Emily laughed. “I feel I am too full in the figure to be bewitching.”

  “Nonsense! I have never witnessed such beauty.”

  “I think you have received too many blows to the head.” She raised a hand to his face, “be careful today.”

  “There is no danger, but it is a task that I must carry out.”

  Within thirty minutes, William, and many of those that had arrived at Cloveney Hall the previous night, had clambered onto their mounts. With little ceremony, they raised hands in farewell to those who remained and rode away.

  ***

  Emily moved through the household; she sought a place of solitude. She felt a deep, darkening gloom within her soul. She knew that she should be feeling joyous at the upcoming birth of her child. Nonetheless, Emily could not shake her inner dread. She glanced down at the trembling flesh of her hands.

  “Emily,” a voice sounded. It made her jump because she had believed she was alone.

  “Simeon... sorry I was lost in my thoughts.”

  He crossed the room and sat down at her side. He placed his strong, powerful hands about hers. “You have not been yourself, Emily.”

  “Just tired...I am sure a few days rest is all I require.” The tears welled in her eyes as she spoke.

  “What is it?” He asked, and as he did so, he pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped a tear from her cheek. “You seem distracted.”

  “It started when we were all gathered in the hall. I could not help thinking of Obadiah, Gaetan, and young Tom. Even Bessie entered my thoughts, and I know she would have liked nothing more than to see us all dead. How many more, Simeon? The Ripper still walks free and I know William will not stop pursuing him. I could not ask him to betray his lost friends. Try as I might, I cannot stop feeling so terribly sad. It is like a dark cloud has descended on my every thought.”

  Simeon did not reply immediately. He wiped more tears from Emily’s face. “I am no expert when it comes to expecting mothers. I can only speak from my experiences. When William was nearing the time to enter the world, his mother totally changed from the woman I had known. Both heart and mind were consumed by darkness. One moment she was angry and then she would sob for hours and nothing I said would lift her mood. Then William was born, and it was like the dawn of a new day. The despair lifted and the woman I loved returned.” He took her hand once more in his and stared into her sorrowful eyes. “I will not let anything happen to you, Emily.”

  “And William?”

  “William is a grown man that has chosen his path. His journey is filled with peril, but I will do what I can to keep him safe. However, his greatest shield is the love he feels for you. It would be a brave or foolish man that tries to rip him from your side.”

  “London seems so ominous to me now. I dread returning to its solemn streets,” Emily said.

  “There is no need to return. Cloveney is your home as much as it is mine or William’s. You are welcome to take up residence until you are ready to return to London.”

  “Do you mean it, Simeon?” For the first time during the encounter, a smile appeared on her face.

  “Of course, as long as William agrees.”

  “Oh, he will.”

  The humming of Dr Fitzgerald halted the conversation. She had clearly not been unaware of Emily and Simeon as she jumped slightly when she finally realised that she was not alone.

  “Forgive me.” Dr Fitzgerald’s faced flushed slightly. “I was exploring, it is such a beautiful home. I will leave you in peace.” The doctor started to move away.

  “Actually, Emily do you mind? I need to have a moment of the good doctor’s time.”

  “Of course not... I will return to my room.”

  “Nonsense, stay here. Fitzgerald and I can speak in my study.” Simeon smiled and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder before rising, then leading the doctor towards his study.

  ***

  Sir Simeon Harkness poured out two drinks. As he did so his eyes never left Dr Fitzgerald, an act that seemed to make her feel uncomfortable.

  “Forgive me Sir Simeon, but I cannot understand why you would need to talk to me. We have had no dealings as far as I am aware.”

  “Oh, you are responsible for the Ripper’s dead, which means that you are part of my son’s inner circle – willing or not. My son is awe of your abilities.”

  “I am employed by the City, but I will do what I can to aid your son to bring this madman to justice.”

  “Justice – a word that covers a multitude of sins,” Simeon replied. He watched her closely and for the first time was sure he noticed real concern.

  “Why am I here?”

  “Before I explain, I want you to know that I am a friend.” He held up a hand to prevent her from speaking. “However, I need to tell you what I know, and it would be in your interests to listen. You are an intelligent and successful woman. In these times that is remarkable but more so, when your upbringing was chaotic and violent. Your father was abusive to both you and your mother. This violence culminated in your mother’s death, and when you turned to the authorities, you were ignored.”

  “I believe I know this story.” Her jaw clenched, displaying her annoyance.

  “That you do.” Simeon could not help feeling sorry for Fitzgerald. His investigation into her past had discovered the terror she had faced in her younger years. “You killed your father, and he was not the last to fall beneath your blade.”

  “I…” Fitzgerald tried to interrupt.

  “I am not interested in denials,” he allowed his words to hang in the air. “I am also not interested in your past as long as you control your temptation to take the law into your own hands. My son may not care a jot for his reputation, but I will protect him from both enemy and friend whether he likes it or not.”

  “You are not going to inform, Abberline?” The disbelief was evident on her face.

  “You have killed – there are some that claim the taking of any life is a sin. I believe that allowing evil to walk the earth is a greater a sin. I have done many things in my life that the good Inspector Abberline is best not knowing. We shall leave the past where it belongs. What do you say?”

  “Yes… and thank you.”

  ***

  Josh watched from the converted water tower’s window. He was intrigued to see his mounted friends moving at pace towards his position. He plucked his beloved rifle from the table, and gently caressed the barrel.

  “Looks like we are going to have some fun, ole gal.” He continued to feel the contours of the weapon tha
t had served him so well.

  “What...what is happening?” A voice sounded to his rear.

  Josh turned to stare at Finch. The man had taken on the look of a startled rabbit. “How the hell do I know?” Finch rose from his chair and moved to look out of the window. “Get back you bloody idiot. I am not the only man who can shoot a fly off a cow’s arse.” Finch jumped backwards, the colour draining from the substantial flesh of his face.

  “What are we going to do?”

  “Well I am going wait for Tallow to bring news and you are going to sit there and be quiet.”

  It was not long before the door to their room was flung open and a breathless Tallow fought to force air into his lungs. Eventually, he regained his composure. “Why in God’s name do we pick a hideout that has so many stairs?”

  “It gives us the advantage of surveying the surrounding area,” Josh stated the obvious. He was keen to know what had caused Tallow to hurry. “What is happening?”

  “Am I in danger?” Finch interrupted.

  “What did I say? Sit there and be quiet. The adults are talking.” Josh scolded Finch; the look on his face showed the dislike he held for the man.

  “We were returning, but then about four miles out we noticed we were being followed. We tried to shake them and thought we had succeeded. It would seem they have skills.” Tallow pointed out of the window towards a black shape, undoubtedly numerous riders, in the distance.

  “Well, Betsy here will thin their ranks.” Josh tapped the barrel of his beloved weapon.

  “Bakari believes he has the perfect spot for you to introduce Betsy to our uninvited guests. Go to him, and I will play nursemaid to Finch.” Just for a moment, confusion was etched into Josh’s face. The window would have given him the most advantageous spot to wreak havoc amongst their enemies. However, he had learned over the years not to question Tallow’s orders, and so he nodded his agreement and left the room.

  “Should we not run?” Finch asked.

  Tallow sighed at Finch interrupting his thoughts but allowed his smile to form and spoke to his captive as a nanny would talk to a child. “We are outnumbered and two of our number, including you, are without mounts. Unless you have misled me and you are in possession of a speed that I have not bore witness. It is best that we pick our place of battle.”