David Jones hadn't always been a revered member of the Brethren Court. He got his start the same way most pirates did in those days: privateering for the monarchy. However when work became scarce and money got tight, he gave up the life of an honest sailor to become a swashbuckling buccaneer, and a rich one at that.
After years of sailing as first mate to Captain Bartholomew "Black Bart" Ferguson, Captain Ferguson decided to retire and leave David in charge of the ship. On his last night as captain, Bart called David to his quarters.
"Before you take the position of captain of the Highland Pride," said Bart in his deep Scottish brogue, "I must pass something along to you."
He reached deep into the pocket of his coat and produced a gleaming silver doubloon.
"Do you know what this is, lad?" he asked, turning the coin over and over between his thumb and forefinger.
David shook his head.
"This here is one of nine Pieces of Eight. There's one piece for each of the nine Pirate Lords of the Brethren Court. Since you are to be the new captain, you must also take my place in the Court."
He held it out to David, who took it hesitantly. He turned it end over end in his hands, examining the fine detail on each side.
"David, my boy," said Bart, calling his attention away from the glinting silver piece, "this is a great responsibility that is not to be taken lightly. Should the Court be called upon, the coin itself will sing. Do you find yourself worthy and capable of upholding the duties as both Captain and Lord?"
"Aye sir," replied David as he slipped the coin into his own pocket. Bart smiled and clapped him on the shoulder.
"Now go get some rest. You have a busy day ahead of you tomorrow."
David nodded, then turned and exited the captain's quarters. He made his way down to the crew's bunks and crawled into his own. He removed the coin from his pocket and lay there turning it over in his hands.
This, he thought, is the beginning of greatness.