Deep Down Inside

A Challenge

The ocean kept still, only gentle waves caressed the top along with a thick wave of fog. Rays of moonlight lit the blue water, giving way for anyone at sea. Ripples were forming due to a ship traveling at mercy of the water. The HMS Dauntless was crossing the sea, and on a very important mission: To see that the new governor and his family cross safely to Port Royal.

"We pillage, we plunder, we rifle and loot. Drink up me 'hearties yo ho! We kidnap and ravage and don't give a hoot. Drink up me 'hearties yo ho! Yo ho, yo ho a pirate's life for me." The young Elizabeth sang softly. She stood still, watching the waves with her hands crossed. Her dark orange curls bounced lightly commenting her freckles.

"Quiet, missy! Cursed pirates sail these waters. You want to call 'em down on us?" Gibbs, a raggedy middle-aged man, stated while standing next to her.

"Mr. Gibbs. Striking fear into a young child? Unnecessary as it is, you make your point. Such a foul tune shouldn't be heard at all upon this ship." A low voice spoke across from them. It belonged to a young man, defiant among them. He was garbed in the traditional Naval uniform and a powder wig. Gibbs nodded and stepped away. Only when James glanced out to the water did Elizabeth move closer to a figure standing against the rail. As he looked back, words seemed to be exchanged as he noted the figure. It turned towards him stepping lightly. His brow raised realizing it was a woman.

"Lieutenant Norrington, Miss Swann tells me you'd like for her to cease her singing. Is that so?" The woman looked him in the eyes straightforward with a calm face. James almost hesitated to speak taken aback by her presence, then realized how he was being spoken to.

"Questioning something so silly, really Miss Lewis. Would you rather me hope she learn more and continue singing?" He replied.

"She's only fascinated with Pirates. It's nothing to be worried about." Erica Lewis shook her head and walked back over to the railing watching Elizabeth run off towards Gibbs.

"Pirates are the last thing I had hoped we would be discussing. Savage, ruthless, selfish people." James followed, standing close and leaning over. His hands clasped behind his back, and with a stern look, watched the water.

"Savage, ruthless, selfish people? Harsh words, Lieutenant. This may be hard to believe, but not all pirates-"

"Not all? They deserve nothing but a short drop and a sudden stop." His face contorted looking more than just disappointed.

"Well, of course you believe that. You are, after all, a Lieutenant in his Majesty's Royal Navy. It's your duty to protect all citizens from these "savage, ruthless, selfish people" you call pirates. And I am most sure they fear you when your name is mentioned. But, what if you weren't? What if you were just like them? What if you became a pirate yourself? Don't you believe everyone deserves a second chance? Redemption, perhaps?"

James turned quickly, her words catching his arrogant behavior, but was stunned. He had his mouth opened to speak once again, but hesitated. Erica looked so calm and dignified. Her long dark black hair laid straight to one side, giving him a clear view of her glowing blue eyes. Being at sea for nearly a month always had its toll on young bachelors, but it was rare he was ever distracted.

"Lieutenant?" Erica glanced over to him. He quickly cleared his throat from the lump that formed and looked back out to sea. "Not at all." He answered in a cold tone. She huffed and shrugged her shoulders. "I see."

"Miss Lewis, this is the least I would expect from a lady. Speaking out of line to a officer." She turned to him and put her hands over her dress.

"My apologies, Lieutenant Norrington. I take my chances. Sometimes step out of line." Erica gently rubbed a silver tarnished ring on her left pinky. "But...you did answer my question. It's all I wanted."

"I...don't mind a challenge. You, my dear, are definitely a challenge."

"A challenge? I'm not sure if that's an insult or a compliment."

"Best get used to it, Miss Lewis. You'll be seeing a lot of me now that you reside in Port Royal with the Swann's."

"And that's a good thing?"

James smirked and pivoted on his feet. "Just get used to it."