A/N: Hi all!

Here I am with a nice and long chapter for you lovely readers! I want to thank everyone for still following this story, your reviews and for not giving up on me. I've had some health issues but I'm finally on the mend! I am super excited for you all to read this as it is not a filler chapter so yea lol!

I do hope you will enjoy. For those of you that guessed about me getting the idea from the movie Titanic, you are absolutely correct! That was my favorite movie growing up and I still watch it from time to time.

Please let me know what you think of this on your way out! Also, see the end of this chapter for additional notes.

A special thanks goes to my beta BabyB26 who helped me so much with this chapter! If it wasn't for BabyB26, you'd still be waiting for this. She also writes for the Pocahontas fandom so whenever you can do check out her work!

DISCLAIMER: I still own nothing. We have in this chapter a new character so if you'd like to use him just ask! 😊 😊

Chapter 7:

-…-…

"Where are we going?"

Pocahontas asked as the carriage moved them along the cobblestone street. A cool breeze wafted through the open window as the birds called to one another in the twilight.

"Eva and Ansgar's son Alaric, arrived a couple days ago and has rented out a tavern to throw a victory party."

Pocahontas smiled. "Why is he throwing a victory party?"

"His army won a major battle in the Rhine."

"Where is that?"

"It is in his homeland in Germany."

Pocahontas nodded. "I see."

Silence fell as the wind blew once more. The native princess gazed on curiously as the buildings passed. She could tell that they were going into the city as the buildings grew closer together and the sounds of milling people filtered into the carriage.

Pocahontas looked up as another carriage approached. "Will Eva and Ansgar be at the party?"

John smith laughed. "Not if Alaric wants to have a wild time."

Pocahontas shook her head in amusement. "My father would not care what I do at our tribal feasts."

John Smith met her eyes. "Is that so?"

Pocahontas nodded. "Yes. We love to eat, dance, leap and perhaps find a partner for the evening."

She noted Smith's wink as he inquired. "Oh, really? Have you found many partners for those evenings?"

Pocahontas coyly grinned. "I have never submitted to any man's charms, if that is what you mean."

It was Smith's turn to nod. "I see."

"Your people surprise me when it comes to how you dance," Pocahontas spoke after a pleasant lull in the conversation.

"How do we surprise you?"

"You touch each other whilst dancing," Pocahontas replied, "In my homeland while we dance, we do not touch. Men and women move beside or in front of one another. It was not until I arrived, and John Rolfe taught me your English dances that I knew you all dance so close together."

"That is very interesting," John Smith said as he admired the way her gown showed off her figure, "The Germans have a dance where the men lift the women into the air. I am certain you will see this at the party."

John Smith leaned back against the plush seat, forcing the images of John Rolfe teaching her anything about dancing and kissing her away. In that moment, captain John Smith fought the sparks of jealousy that threatened to enshroud his heart.

Pocahontas leaned out the window as a line of men walked past the carriage.

"That is fascinating," the native princess commented as the gentlemen seemed to be dressed alike, "I wonder where they are going or coming from?"

"What is it?"

"Those gentlemen," Pocahontas indicated the direction the men were heading.

"They are returning from what is called the Exchange," John Smith explained, grateful for the distraction, "The Exchange is an area that does a lot of trading and stores trade items amongst their records and everything like that."

"What kind of items do your people trade?"

John smith shrugged. "You name it and they trade it."

"I truly enjoy many of the fragrances that your people have. For example, we have lavender however your people put it into thousands of things."

"I suppose Lavender is popular wherever you are," John Smith replied, "They trade a lot of frankincense. Another example is sandalwood."

"What is frankin… What did you call it? What does it smell like?"

"It is called frankincense," John Smith answered as he looked at her, "I like to wear this fragrance myself. However, this evening I chose to wear sandalwood."

Pocahontas smiled as he leaned forward, the breeze from the open window wafting a woody sweet aroma that she had never smelled before. It simultaneously brought to mind her homeland, as well as far off places she would never see.

"It suits you," she said before clearing her throat, the woman becoming unsettled at her soft tone.

A galloping horse thankfully distracted her as she fixed her gaze out the window. In no time at all, the carriage stopped, and Pocahontas adjusted the necklace Patricia had lent her before she noticed that John Smith had stepped out of the coach and was holding out his hand in order to assist her.

"Thank you," she said as she gathered the skirts of her gown and carefully moved onto the freshly swept cobblestones.

A comfortable silence proceeded them down the walkway as they passed other carriages, people milling in groups and venders closing up their stalls. She granted him a smile when he had guided her through a throng of people who had begun to stare. Though their looks were not unkind, a feeling of unease swept through her.

'What if an acquaintance of John Rolfe is here?'

"What is it?"

His sudden query startled her out of her musings as he gently squeezed her hand that was resting on his arm.

"I, I truly do not know what I was thinking accepting your invitation to this party," Pocahontas hastily continued in order to keep his frown from reaching his eyes, "what if I, what if an acquaintance of John Rolfe sees me here? The story of I having a lady's evening with Patricia would be spoiled."

John Smith laughed, though it sounded forced to her ears. "I guarantee none of Mr. Rolfe's friends would dare come to a party like this. They would consider it beneath them to revel with people from the lower classes."

She turned slightly in order to meet his eyes in the waning moonlight. "I do not consider you low class. Look at all you have done for my people. His majesty should reward you for your bravery and wits."

"His Majesty has rewarded me with a ship among other things," John Smith replied, "Though I must say I prefer your praise."

Pocahontas laughed as she playfully slipped her arm out of his in order to take his hand. "Tell me, are we almost there?"

"It is just up ahead."

Sure enough, once they rounded the corner the air itself seemed to take on an energy of its own. Laughing couples moved passed them as a square building with two levels came into view. Pocahontas swallowed, hating the fact her step seemed to faulter once more.

The native never had an issue with large crowds. However, since coming to London and introduced to King James's court, large crowds only seemed to fill her with dread as she could often hear the mocking whispers and see the sharp quick glances that were always sent her way. Only for the women to hide behind their ornate fans and murmur amongst themselves whilst the men would either ignore or leer at her as she walked.

"Pocahontas?"

The native jumped as his voice was close to her ear in order to be heard above the crowd.

"If you wish to leave."

"No," she interrupted him with a firm shake of her head, "No, I am merely a trifle nervous. Tis nothing…"

The native princess slightly relaxed as John Smith slowed their walk, allowing the revelers to go ahead. Waving a few people to go passed them John smith stopped in front of her.

"If you wish to leave," he held up a hand to stop her protest, "I will take you back to her home. However, I know Alaric and a few of his good friends. You have my word that nothing will happen to you. These men are well traveled and are nothing like those you have interacted with at court. I would not have asked you to come if I thought otherwise."

Pocahontas smiled. "So, I can truly enjoy London without being gawked at all evening?"

He threaded her arm through his as they gradually made their way towards the tavern.

"People will gawk at your beauty. I cannot help that."

The princess laughed as they entered the tavern's main room. Pocahontas's eyes widened at all she saw. A long table in the back supported bottles and glasses of all sizes. A cluster of tables sat in front of the bar, crowded with men and women who looked to be playing games or drinking on stools. Even the leaping flames in the fireplace looked inviting as John slowly moved towards another room. Securing his hold on her arm, the captain moved passed a talking couple in order to stand in the doorway.

Though not as big as the main room in the tavern, it was similarly set up for the evening's activities. A long table in the back held bread, different sorts of drinks and various foods that people could serve themselves. A rich sounding voice with a happy melody floated to their ears whilst men and women clapped and cheered. Having no time to react, Pocahontas found her step matching Smith's as he strolled across the room.

"Alaric, ich sehe, dass es dir gut geht!"

The singing stopped, and Pocahontas watched as a man that looked to be not much younger than John Smith turned their way. Golden hair framed his smooth pale face, his jovial expression offset his deep blue eyes. The native princess was surprised when she found herself blushing at his charming smile.

"Ja, mir geht es gut, John Smith!"

The soldier merrily jumped off his stool only to stumble and fling an arm around his friend's shoulder whilst he vigorously shook John's hand.

"Neine Dame stricht kein Deutsch," John Smith said as Pocahontas straightened.

It was then Alaric's gaze moved over the native princess, he starting at her face then encompassed her whole being in one sweep of his eyes.

"I must inquire," Alaric continued as he took her hand, "Who is this vision of exquisiteness?"

The native felt her cheeks grow warm. "My name is Pocahontas; however, you can call me Rebecca if tis easier for you."

"Rebecca?"

John Smith inquired as he arched an eyebrow in confusion, whilst Alaric still held her hand.

"Yes," Pocahontas replied, "I have been told that I will be given a new name upon my wed… A new name upon my baptism. Rebecca will be my new name upon my baptism into your church."

"I understand," Alaric said as he gently kissed the back of her hand, "I shall call you Pocahontas. Tis not so difficult."

He kissed her hand again, whilst giving John a subtle wink.

"Thank you, Alaric," Pocahontas smiled as he kissed her hand for a third time, "You have a unique name. I can see you also have the kindness of your parents."

Alaric grinned. "You have met my mother and father?"

Pocahontas nodded as John cleared his throat.

"How did you make their acquaintance?"

"John Smith took me to their home when I fell and cut my hand," Pocahontas explained as Alaric lead them towards the table he had occupied.

"From what I have heard, the battle in the Rhine did not have the misfortune of many casualties," John Smith interrupted as he sat to Pocahontas's left.

"War is hell," Alaric continued as he sat down and squeezed Pocahontas's hand before carefully placing it on the table, "You try to come to an accord only to end up slicing a few throats and throwing a few fiery dragons. Is that not correct, Captain Smith?"

Alaric grinned at John who laughed whilst Pocahontas shook her head.

"What is a fiery dragon?"

"It is brilliant," Alaric replied, leaning closer in order to be heard over the sudden music, "I do not remember where Smith said he read it from. However, you put gun powder and other items into a clay pot, set the wick alight and lob it over the walls of a city. Like I said, tis brilliant!"

Pocahontas turned amazed eyes towards John Smith. "My tribe has burned down villages before. However, we try to avoid doing so."

"Adalbert," Alaric waved over another man that had been slouching near their table, "Go and fetch Mr. Smith and his lady a drink."

Turning towards John, Pocahontas arched an eyebrow whilst Adalbert scurried off. "I am your lady?"

"Well," John continued as he placed his hand on hers, "For this evening you are my lady."

Pocahontas could not contain her laughter. "Pray tell, who will be your lady come tomorrow evening?"

Alaric's sudden laugh joined hers as he threw back his head. "I admire you very much! A woman with sharp wits and tongue is such a rare find."

John smith's eyes did not leave her face as she searched his gaze.

"You," he answered without hesitation.

"What of the evening after that?"

The woman felt her pulse quicken as John smith leaned closer, whilst Alaric's expression turned thoughtful. She could feel his breath on her cheek as he spoke and gently brushed her hair behind an ear.

"She is more of a lady than England and her holdings would ever have to offer. Her name is Pocahontas, and she is the most beautiful woman here. She is the most selfless lady I have ever known."

The silence hung between them as John dropped his gaze, only to meet her eyes once more. The native swallowed thickly as she straightened on the stool, her dark eyes looking everywhere but John Smith's face.

"Here you are," Alaric's sudden voice startled Pocahontas as she quickly turned towards him, "This is beer from my homeland."

"Thank you," Pocahontas said as she snatched the mug from Alaric's hand. Grateful to have something to distract her, the native took a sip of the drink. It had a thick texture, and Pocahontas swallowed whilst covering her mouth with her hand.

The German chuckled. "I can get you something else. Tis good of you to try it, however you do not have to suffer drinking it."

Pocahontas inquired as she glanced apologetically at Alaric, "May I have a glass of wine then?"

"Of course," he replied as he stood whilst simultaneously pushing Pocahontas's beer in Smith's direction, "I shall return soon. In the meantime, John should ask you to dance. Why I must inform him of this I do not know, and yet I am certain a lady of your beauty does not wish to sit all night."

Pocahontas laughed as Alaric moved away, the native watching the younger man appear to exchange a few words with all of those he encountered.

"You know, he is correct," Pocahontas said feeling anticipation run through her as she stood, "I would like to dance."

The captain grinned as he got to his feet, extending his hand in order to escort her towards the dancers. The princess smiled as in one quick motion he had wound one arm around her waist and threaded his fingers through hers. It was just then the musicians struck up a lively tune, the cheers of the people making it impossible to speak as John began to move across the floor. The fast beat of the drums seemed to awaken something within her soul, she remembering with fondness the dances of her people. As the crowd around them cheered, clapped and moved to the music Pocahontas allowed a bright smile to cross her face.

It was a different place and time, yet people were celebrating a victory in the same way her tribe would. There was no restraint, no coy laughter or stringent rules to follow at this tavern.

Pocahontas wondered if this was the only place in London where a celebration could just be a celebration, without the rigidity of the court.

John Smith marveled at her shining smile, the way she felt in his arms and how she moved against him as the music soared. He returned her smile with one of his own, the captain feeling more at ease as they moved. When her head had landed on his shoulder, John let out a contented sigh.

'She is here with you.'

'She chose to come with you.'

His heart quickened at the possibility that the woman he glimpsed at Patricia's house was merely a facade and that the woman he held was the woman he had always known.

At some point he had let go of her hand, and she had wrapped both arms around his neck as they danced. She matched him step for step, they fully embracing as the third song ended.

Pocahontas noted how they were not the only ones caught up in an embrace, she taking the time to look around the room as she leaned against him, her heart pounding in her corseted gown.

As the fourth song began, she pulled back to look at him. "I, I believe I could have that glass of wine now."

She could not stop a small gasp from escaping her lips as he tenderly brushed hair from her flushed face, the princess unable to look away from his intense gaze.

"Of course," he leaned close, not wanting to release her. Couples moved around them whilst Pocahontas looked up at him through her eyelashes.

"I want to kiss you," John softly admitted.

"Should, could you here?"

She felt his shoulders shake with a light laugh. "That just makes me want to kiss you even more."

His thumb grazed her bottom lip as she tilted her head, and he gently covered his mouth over hers.

Unbidden, the image of John Rolfe kissing the very woman he held flashed in John smith's mind. He had observed the restraint of the listless encounter, and he wondered if Pocahontas ever noticed the difference. He tightened his hold around her waist, deepening the kiss as if he could drive the diplomat from her mind. He felt her respond beneath his lips, the warmth and willingness of her mouth eliciting a moan from him as he held her. Her hands had found their way into his soft golden hair, and Pocahontas found herself drawing him ever closer. He tasted of mint and beer, yet she did not mind as the evening's ambience thrilled her. She had forgotten the strength in his arms; his hold bringing to mind the way they had kissed on John Rolfe's porch.

The thought of her fiancé and what she was doing caused her to pull back, her dark eyes searching his gaze before someone jostled the two of them.

"My apologies for interrupting your conversation," Alaric's teasing tone and wide grin refuted his words, "I am certain the lady is parched by now."

"Alaric!"

The German inquired as he handed Pocahontas a glass of wine. "Captain Smith, what is the matter? The lady did ask for another drink."

Pocahontas laughed as she took a sip of the spiced wine, the three of them making their way back towards the table. An amicable silence fell between them as they drank, the slow tempo of the music giving way to a faster beat.

After a moment Alaric stood and bowed. "Pocahontas, may I have this dance?"

The native giggled as she glanced in John's direction.

"Go on," John said, "Just don't listen to anything the fool says."

"I do enjoy compliments," Alaric snickered as he nudged John's shoulder.

Pocahontas laughed as she finished her wine, jumping off the stool and right into Alaric.

"You have been keeping her all to yourself," Alaric playfully scolded whilst Pocahontas took his hand and the German winked at Smith.

The music was fast, and Pocahontas nearly stumbled on her skirts as she tried to keep up with Alaric's movements. The fact that he was a bit drunk coupled with the rapid beat of the drums did not help her situation as she grabbed onto him in order to keep her balance.

"Try not to fall for me," Alaric jested as he smiled at the young woman.

"Trust me, I will not."

Alaric gasped dramatically as he spun her under his arm. "Milady, your words are like arrows!"

Pocahontas laughed as their hands joined, and the native winced as his palm hit her injured hand.

"Are you alright?"

"Yes," Pocahontas replied, "My hand is still healing from the stitches. I believe I'm going to get them out in a day or two."

Curious, Alaric stopped and turned her hand over and brought it towards his face. Pocahontas watched as he seemed to scrutinize her injury, flexing her wrist and looking at it from all angles.

"I taught John how to stitch a wound," Alaric commented as he lowered her hand, "Just like my father showed me."

"Your father is very skilled," Pocahontas said as Alaric smiled.

"Yes," and he twirled her under his arm again as they glided across the floor.

"I am swift on my feet," Alaric laughed.

"You certainly are," Pocahontas said as the music suddenly halted, causing Alaric to pull her close as the notes became slower before ebbing away.

The gathering clapped, shouting praise at the musicians before Alaric released her and stepped back. Not wanting to go back to the table, Pocahontas noticed another man leaning against a wall. He was staring at her, a kind expression on his face.

"Who is that?"

Pocahontas indicated the lone figure, "He is looking at me."

Alaric's shoulders fell in the only moment of melancholy that she had seen. "His name is Eric. Both of his brothers were killed."

Pocahontas paused and lowered her eyes. "I know how he feels. Would you excuse me?"

Slipping out of Alaric's grasp, the German watched as she made her way towards Eric. Nodding in Smith's direction, Alaric made his way back towards the table.

"What did you say to her?"

Alaric was sober enough to understand the bewilderment in his friend's tone. He put on a serious expression as he laid a hand on his shoulder.

"The man's name is Eric and he was staring at her. Eric is a kind soul who lost his brothers during the war. Pocahontas told me that she understood how Eric feels and thus she darted towards him before I could say anything."

"I see," John replied as he stood.

"You are right about her," Alaric's matter-of-fact statement made John turn towards him as Alaric continued, "Everything you said about her is true. She has an open heart, and a spirit you know the court will kill within her. Who is the gentleman that is slated to marry her?"

John's eyes were fixed on Pocahontas and Eric as they danced.

"Does it matter?"

"Yes, it does. For he is not here, and you are here with her. So, it is clear she prefers your company."

"His name is John Rolfe."

Alaric nodded thoughtfully. "When is the wedding?"

"How the hell would I know?"

"At ease my friend," Alaric held up a hand, "I am merely suggesting that a lot can happen between now and the ceremony."

John chuckled. "You are impossible to deal with at times. Are you aware of that?"

"Her affections are for you," Alaric said, and John turned fully to face him, "Only a wench would let you kiss her like that and since we both know Pocahontas is no wench…"

He allowed his voice to trail off as he shrugged. "Do you know if the marriage is arranged?"

"I."

John smith stopped, for he did not know the answer to that question. Had Pocahontas been told to marry the diplomat? Or, was it out of love and duty for her people? The man was truly uncertain.

John smith shook his head whilst Alaric squeezed his arm.

"Here is my advice. All you have to do is ask her. Tell her how you feel. Although, please inform her of your feelings before you go into her. If you say so afterwards, women tend to think you are jesting."

The captain could not hide his laugh as he shook his head. "Did you find that out the hard way?"

"Tis my advice. You can do with it what you will."

John nodded as the two men looked on whilst Eric bowed, and Pocahontas curtsied before heading their way.

John Smith smiled as an older woman turned and said something to Pocahontas that caused her to stop walking, exchange a few words and nod in his direction. Grinning broadly, Pocahontas made her way towards John as he finished his beer.

"What are you smiling about?"

"A lovely woman congratulated me," Pocahontas replied, "I was not going to correct her."

"What do you mean?"

Pocahontas looked down and blushed. "Well, she saw my ring and said she was delighted Captain Smith had finally decided to take a wife. I was so stunned that she presumed… I just agreed with her."

Pocahontas could not help but laugh at his expression, the deep blush on his cheeks and the way his mouth went slack for a moment as he tried to gather his wits.

"Should I have been truthful with her? It was so sudden that."

"It, it is alright," John answered as he chuckled, "I would have done the same thing."

"Thank you for understanding."

John shrugged as Pocahontas turned her gaze towards the dance floor. The fast music had stopped, and the princess watched the people as they gathered together. A low timber of a drumbeat made her tilt her head, the intriguing tune causing her to move towards the dance floor. The native noted how the dancers stood, the skirts of the various gowns flowed outwards while their partner pulled them close. She spotted Alaric in the crowd, holding a woman whose hair reminded her of fire, it was that red. She admired the woman's tresses as they cascaded down her back as John Smith appeared beside her.

"They are getting ready to dance the Volta," he said by way of explanation, "That is the name of the dance I was telling you about in the carriage."

"When the men lift the women into the air," Pocahontas remembered as John nodded.

"It is very popular," John said as he smiled at her, "Would you care to make this our final dance? It is getting late and I must take you back to Patricia's house."

"Oh, I did not think twas that late in the evening," Pocahontas said, and John could detect a hint of disappointment in her tone.

It made his heart soar.

Intrigued, Pocahontas turned to face John Smith as he held out his arm to her.

"The Volta is very different," he explained as he guided her towards the gathering, "I dare say your people would be quite scandalized."

Pocahontas chuckled. "Alright, now you have me curious about this Volta."

John smith grinned as he pulled her close. "Now, put your right arm around my shoulder or back, how so ever you feel comfortable."

Pocahontas moved into his embrace, feeling his muscles move against her as she wrapped her arm around his shoulders whilst adjusting her position.

"That is good. Now, we will turn a bit and when I go to lift you, use your left hand to keep your gown from flying upwards."

Pocahontas nodded, then felt her pulse quicken as his hand firmly clasped her waist, before sliding to rest on her right hip.

"I will let you know when I go to lift you," John Smith said as Pocahontas gave an anxious smile.

She followed his lead as they moved across the wooden floor, the music jaunty yet slow. The smell of sandalwood and his firm grasp made her feel warm yet relaxed as they danced.

"Are you ready?"

John Smith murmured as she adjusted her stance like she had seen the other women do before their lifts.

"Oh!"

The native princess could not help the slight gasp of surprise as his other hand gripped just below her bosom whilst his thigh slid between her parted legs. Nevertheless, her feet left the ground for the briefest of moments, her dark eyes gazing into smith's azure orbs prior to him setting her back down.

"what did you think?"

Pocahontas laughed. "Yes, my people would be scandalized."

John Smith joined in her laughter as they moved, Pocahontas throwing her head back as he lifted her again. The music slowed and it was not long before Pocahontas learned the basic twirls and steps of the Volta.

It was then she became aware of the feel of his body, pressed so close to hers that she practically slid against his fine fabric as they moved. Raising her left hand, Pocahontas could not help but touch the smoothness of his face as he set her back down for the fourth time.

She felt his intake of breath, as well as saw his eyes lower towards her amble décolletage. She had to stifle a moan as his hand subtly brushed the underside of her breast and he secured his grasp. It was as if she were flying, his strength and their fluidity making her close her eyes to the new sensations coursing through her soul.

The princess could not recall when she had last felt so alive and free. It was as if time had ceased and the only thing that existed were the two of them and the music. She found herself leaning fully against him as she descended, her delicate hand cupping his face as he held her in place.

"I want to kiss you," she softly admitted as his gaze bore into her.

A smirk tugged at his lips whilst her forehead pulled into a frown.

"Should, could we here?"

Her words from earlier in the evening echoed back at her as his hand lightly grazed her breast again.

"T-That just makes me want to kiss you even more," she murmured, her blood humming in her veins as her lips brushed his cheek before claiming his mouth in a searing kiss. Uncaring of her gown, Pocahontas threw both arms around him as he savored her bottom lip, her fingertips diving into the hair at the nape of his neck.

"Pocahontas," he breathed before the clapping and cheering of the crowd around them shattered the moment and John Smith reluctantly pulled himself away. When he saw that she was steady on her feet, the captain gently wrapped his arms around her lithe figure. John tightened his grasp as he buried his face in her neck, leaving a lingering kiss on her skin.

"I love you," he whispered as he clung to her as if she were the lifeline to his sanity.

The native pulled back, searching the depths of his cerulean gaze. Love and sincerity met her eyes, pronounced by the underlying passion and desire.

'Desire for you, and how you have always been.'

A thought she had tried to keep hidden surfaced, only to bring forth all that had brought her to this very moment. Swallowing hard, Pocahontas returned his fierce embrace. Though tightly held, the native knew she had never felt so free since coming to this strange world.

A place she had never heard of until he had spoken of it. A world she had, if she were being honest with herself, regretted not seeing when he had asked her to sail with him all those years ago.

Yet now she was here, without restrictions, in his arms with nothing between them but the night and her unspoken words. Raising her eyes towards his once more, she tried to show the love and admiration she held for him.

Him alone.

"I love you too," she murmured whilst pressing her face in the crook of his neck, "I always have."

She felt his gasp under her lips, grinning as he softly murmured her name in between kisses.

He tenderly caressed her face. "Oh, my love… John Rolfe will possibly have you for the rest of his life. However, we have tonight."

The native trembled at his words, the thrill of his implication running through her soul.

There were so many reasons she should stop. She was engaged, John Rolfe was expecting her at Patricia's home, this gown was not even hers and so much more.

Yet there was a reason why she yearned to go with him.

He was freedom.

"Yes," she smiled, "We do have this night."

His smile was as bright as the noon day sun as he threaded his arm through hers, the couple making their way passed the others in the crowd. John Smith scanned the gathering, seeing his friend near the table they had sat at earlier.

"Alaric," John called as the German looked up, "We thank you for a wonderful evening. However, we must be going."

"Oh?"

Alaric swayed on his stool and blinked up at the couple as they approached.

"You come back then? After you return the angel to Heaven, of course!"

Pocahontas could not hide her full laugh whilst Alaric's gaze roved her body. It was different than before, more seeking, and the native watched as he swayed again.

"If El Capitan is ever dull, you come see me angel."

John Smith's tone was sharp. "Alaric!"

The German laughed as he met Pocahontas's dark eyes. "My dear, do not be cross with me. By the way, did he tell you?"

The native turned towards the English captain. "What is he talking about?"

"Yes, yes Alaric I did inform her."

The German hooted with laughter as he fell forward, merely to be saved from completely falling to the ground by John catching him. The native exchanged a concerned look with Smith.

"I am fine," Alaric said, "I am only happy. Happy!"

The couple watched as a young man stood from the table and approached. "I will see to him."

"Hello Eric," Pocahontas greeted as the soldier kissed her hand.

"Alaric, thank you for this evening," Pocahontas began as the German smiled, "You have no inkling how much it has meant to me."

"Take care angel," Alaric replied as he finished his beer and signaled for another.

Chuckling, Pocahontas moved closer to John Smith as they exited the room and headed into the main area of the tavern.

Only when they were outside, and the native felt the wind caress her face did she speak. "I cannot tell you how amazing I found this whole evening."

"I know what you mean," John smith replied as he gently brushed midnight black tresses behind her ear, "I know what you mean."

The bark of a dog punctuated the silence as they made their way down the street, Pocahontas shivering as a gust of wind blew.

"I, I was wondering, are you cold?"

"No, it is merely the breeze."

The native princess looked up as John stopped, slipping his cloak off his shoulders and gently wrapping it around her slender frame. She admired the width of his shoulders as she found herself leaning into his arms whilst he tied the warm cloak around her.

"Would, would you care to see my flat? Or, I am certain I can find someone to take us back to Patricia's house. I merely suggested my flat for tis closer and I am certain you."

"Yes," Pocahontas interrupted his speech as she pulled the cloak tighter around her when he had moved away, "I, I am curious to see your flat. After all, you have seen my village."

The native gasped as he moved closer, their hands clasping together as they turned down another street. The wind blew again, and the native princess found herself smiling up at John Smith as he put his arm around her shoulders.

After a moment of silence Pocahontas shyly glanced at the man walking beside her. "Do you remember what I said in the carriage about submitting to a man's charms?"

She continued before she would lose her nerve, "There is a reason I never did. They were not you."

John Smith stopped, took her into his arms, caressed her face and claimed her mouth in a soul-bending kiss.

It was then the moon showed her face, bright stars shining from the heavens as the clouds parted and the two of them continued down the street.

-End of Chapter 7.-

Here are the words spoken in German:

"Alaric, ich sehe, dass es dir gut geht!"

Alaric, I see you are well!

"Ja, mir geht es gut, John Smith!"

Yes, I am well John Smith!

"Neine Dame stricht kein Deutsch."

My lady does not speak German.

P.S. I used Siri on my iPhone to look up the German words because I do not speak the language. I mean no disrespect if anything is wrong. Thank you all!