Chapter V - Highwaymen   ... As an exchange of more lead blitzes the air, several deputies ignite oil-soaked clubs. The torches are flung atop the roof, and the side foundation is doused with the slimy liquid. Hungry flames gradually intensify, feeding on the wooden structure. Eventually, the house is swallowed by fire, and the busted windows belch dark smoke. Before long, the siege ends as incoherent yelling and coughing emanate from inside. The blazing house starts crumbling, and ...   ... "This land bears so much elegance. Never have I seen such an abundance of flora,” she exclaims. “The beauty of this land is only enhanced by your presence.”   She smiles and walks toward the window. I follow her, embracing her waist from behind. As she looks outside, her arms rest atop mine. I bury my face within the fragrance of her long silky hair. “Lavinia, let us stroll the gardens so you may truly experience the grandeur,” I suggest, playfully ...   Continue to chapter ...   TABLE OF CONTENTS         Prologue I.      Shiloh Plantation II.     Six Mile House III.    The Arrival IV.    Charleston Tour V.     Highwaymen VI.    Fires of Hell VII.   City Bastille VIII.  Coming of Age IX.    Presidential Ball X.     Voyage of Faith XI.    Day of Reckoning XII.   Fall Harvest XIII.  New Year Politics XIV.  Lurking Danger XV.   Steps to Eternity XVI.  Haunting Love