Title: All That Shines
Author: Your's truly, Memory Untainted
Rating: pg-13, I think. Strong language later on.
Summary: Pirates of the Caribbean/The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle crossover. The Seahawk is on course for Port Royal to deliever a "special cargo". A certain pirate crew comes across the Seahawk when it runs aground on a sandbar. The cargo falls into their hands. . .
Disclaimer: I do NOT own anyone from Pirates of the Caribbean or The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. As sad as that makes me. . . Please don't sue me, Disney or. . .the author of The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. . .Yeah, that. Anyone know who the author is? If you do, please enclose it in your review. I'd much appreciate it! ^_~
'. . .' - thoughts
". . ." - speaking
{. . .} - author's notes from me
. . .* - something that I am going to explain at the end of the chapter.
"/. . ./" - singing outloud
~~ - scene cut
Chapter 3
The next morning, the Seahawk set sail for Port Royal. Charlotte was high up in the rigging of the topgallant, looking out over the ocean as they sailed. She was sulking, actually. Last night the crew had taken a vote of what to do with Charlotte, and it was decided that she was to be taken to her cousin's home in Port Royal as planned, but left there while the crew went on a three month voyage to Scotland. The incident in Tortuga had been brought into the light and with places like Tortuga in Ireland and the wars going on constantly between the clans and the English, they decided that the safest place for Charlotte this time would be on dry land.
Of course the hoyden had complained, ranted, begged, and even went as far as to threaten to stow away. All of her actions had been in vain for the crew was dead-set against her coming along. The spiteful side of her couldn't help but feel as if the crew were abandoning her just to get rid of her. Maybe she was too much of a burden for them. Maybe they didn't even like her. Maybe this was just easier than throwing her off of the ship in the middle of the ocean. There wouldn't be murder accusations this way. Their consiciences would be clear.
Deep in her heart, she knew that that wasn't why they were literally grounding her. It was for her safety. But couldn't they trust her? It seemed as if one incident was enough to send them all into worry fits like a bunch of mother hens.
"CHARLOTTE!! C'MON DOWN, LASS, WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU!"
Fisk was standing at the bottom of the topgallant, looking up at her. The crew was gathered around him, with the exception of Keech who was handling the helm. Charlotte nimbly climbed down the ratlines to them. They all looked at her.
"We wanted to give you something, so we could make this up to you," said Zachariah.
They proceeded to give young Charlotte a variety of gifts, of which included a spy glass from Fisk, a new pair of breeches from Zachariah, a gold and emerald necklace from Barlow that he had been saving for his Providence sweetheart, sweet cakes that Morgan had picked up in Tortuga and Charlotte suspected to be covered in rum from the smell of them, a new dirk from Grimes, and a few other small trinkets from ports they had visited as of late. After she thanked each and every one of them for the gifts with a hug and the reassurance that she was not mad at them, Ewing pulled her off to the side.
"Here, Charlotte," he whispered. "I want you to have this. It is just in case of anymore trouble like what happened in Tortuga. You'll have to be espically careful with this gift, and there's also something from Fisk here too. We all fear for your safety, mermaid."
The blonde sailor held out something oddly shaped and wrapped in a handkercheif. Along with that was a small leather pouch, covered in turqouise beads. Charlotte carefully took the offered gifts. She slowly began to take off the handkercheif. When this present was revealed, she gasped loudly. It was a pistol! It was well crafted and just small enough to fit in Charlotte's hand. She examined it carefully. It's handle was made of fine wood with a mermaid carved into the handle. In the leather pouch was additional shot and a small bag of powder.
"Ewing. . . this is. . . a. . . a. . ."
"A pistol. Yes, I know. It's for your safety, as I said before. Take care of yourself, mermaid. Stay away from pubs. Have fun rubbing elbows with the fancy and well-to-do of the Caribbean-British society. We'll be back before you know it."
The mention of leaving brought the pain back. Tears welled up in Charlotte's eys again. Ewing quickly pulled her into a big bear hug, trying himself not to cry, and pressed his lips to her forehead. Both of their hearts were breaking. Charlotte broke away from him and fled to the forecastle, to the safety of her hammock.
He already missed her. Something on the deck in front of him caught his eyes. Laying there was her handkercheif that she had been using to wipe at her eyes. He tenderly folded the white cloth into a smaller square and put it in his pocket. At least he would have something to remember her by on the long voyage. The young girl had somehow gotten under his skin and worked her way into his heart. It pained him greatly to know that she would have to stay behind this time, even though he knew it was for the best.
"KEECH! KEECH! PORT! TURN PORT! NOT STARBOARD!"
The ship gave a huge lurch then a sudden stop. The crew members held on tightly so they didn't fly off overboard like poor Keech did. Captain Fisk rushed to the port side to see what was the cause of their stop. The crew heard his frustrated groan. They rushed to his side. Due to Keech's falling asleep at the helm, they had run aground on a sandbar. Keech was laying facedown in the sand, snoring loudly.
"All hands! All hands!"
The crew all reported on deck as they were called. Each of their reactions were much like Fisk's. Poor Keech had been worn thin lately, and the sun and waves had taken their toll on him, lulling him into a deep sleep.
All ten of the men jumped down onto the white Caribbean sand. The hull of the ship had been torn almost apart by the rocks in front of the sandbar. Freeing the Seahawk to continue sailing was hopeless.
"Men, we have two jollyboats," Fisk said. "There are ten of us. I want two men in the first boat to sail until the nearest port is reached. Get help of any kind and sail back here as fast as you can. If the first party doesn't make it back within a week, the second party will head out. Who will be the first party? Speak now!"
"Aye," shouted Barlow, then Ewing echoed his call.
"All right, we have our brave volunteers. You two jacks, head out. May God be with you."
Morgan lowered the jolly boat that Barlow and Ewing were in into the crystal blue water. Ewing took first shift on the oars, and Barlow manned the compass. They were out of sight in a matter of a few minutes.
A certain young female sailor watched them go from the decks of the now wrecked Seahawk. She prayed for Ewing with every fiber of her being.
~~
"Cap'n! Merchant ship off the port bow! She's wrecked on a sandbar, Cap'n!" Gibbs shouted to Jack, who was still at the helm.
"All right, Gibbs. Prepare the men for a little plundering. No killing, remember. Just take the goods and maybe we can find some way to help them."
Gibbs laughed. Even when planning the future events, the captain still thought about helping the stranded sailors. He was much more a man than Barbossa had been, though he was still a pirate, albeit a pirate with honor.
The pirates aboard the Black Pearl prepared themselves. The anchor was lowered, as were the several jolly boats for just such an occasion. Their swords and pistols were holstered in their belts so their hands were free. Jack was in the front jolly boat, standing at the bow, looking around regally. Jack was king and the ocean was his realm.
"AHOY!" he called to the men stranded.
"AHOY!" Fisk called back. "WHO BE YE?"
"CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW!"
Fisk and his men drew their weapons. Pirates. They were being apporached by pirates! Charlotte, who had come down from the ship, was quickly thrust behind all of them so she wasn't visible. Grimes stood in front of her, pushing a pistol into her hands.
"Stay out of sight, Charlotte," he whispered lowly. "Don't use this unless worse comes to worse."
"Right." What Grimes didn't know was that Charlotte had her new pistol stuck down the front of her canvas shirt. She wasn't sure about using either of them, but she would if there was need for them.
"No need for that," Jack said as his boat stopped in the sand and he swayed onto shore in front of the men. "All we want is whatever profitable cargo you may be carrying. Hand it over and we can be gone in a jiffy."
"We aren't carrying cargo," Fisk replied, which was quite true. They were only going to Port Royal to put Charlotte ashore with her cousin.
"You have to have something of value. Merchant ships always carry cargo. It's a well known fact, mate. No? All right, men, search them."
The pirates moved foward and did as their captain ordered. Two men were sent aboard the ship to search there also. They came back with the jewlery trinkets and the fancy dresses that were Charlotte's gifts. Just as these were turned over to Jack, the owner of said material posessions was discovered among her crewmates.
"Cap'n! What shall we do with this?" Annamaria led her over to Jack by her upperarm. Charlotte struggled against the pirate woman, but Annamaria, who was older and stronger, kept her in check.
"Ah, love, so nice to see you again," Jack said as Charlotte came into view. "She'll be coming along with us."
"Captain Sparrow, leave the girl here, please."
"Captain Fisk, I am afraid that that is impossible. You see, I plan to recruit this lovely young creature for my crew. Willingly or not. I'm afraid that if any of you moves that I will have to cause you slight bodily harm. Come along, dearest."
Jack threw his arm around Charlotte lazily, his pistol in his other hand. The crew didn't dare move as long as he had little miss Doyle as a captive.
"Parley," Charlotte shouted. Jack froze.
"What did you say, love?"
"I said 'parley'. You must grant me parley. Are you not a pirate, Captain Sparrow?"
"Aye, love, I am. But you are not, and therefore, the code doesn't apply. You have to be a pirate for the Pirate's Code to apply. To the boats, men! And let's get rid of this." Jack pired the pistol from Charlotte's grasp.
Annamaria climbed into a jolly boat, then Jack helped Charlotte in. He climbed in after her, then pulled her down into his lap, holding her tightly around the waist. She felt the anger burn inside her.
"All right, love?"
"I'm not your love, you horrid man. I do not wish to talk to you. Do not speak to me. In fact, get your dirty hands off of me. I have enough filth on me, and I do not need for you to add to it."
"You really are a hot-blooded American, aren't ya lass? I'm afraid that I can't let you go. Jumping ship and all that. Just sit still and enjoy the ride, love."
A thousand strings of curses that the crew had often muttered when going about their work and accidently hurting themselves sprang to Charlotte's mind. She considered screaming them at this man who dared to handle her so. But she doubted that they would aid in her release. They would just bring forth the captain's humor. Or anger.
She silently endured the captain's hands on her slender waist for the entire ride back to the huge ship that waited just off of the coast of the sandbar. The crew climbed back onto the ship, Charlotte included. The captain kept her close to his side with an arm flung lazily around her shoulders.
"This is me ship, lass. The Black Pearl. Isn't she a beauty?" Jack carressed the Pearl's railing as they walked up to the main deck.
"My father owns better," Charlotte said indifferently. Actually, the Black Pearl was one of the most impressive ships that she had ever seen. Though she wouldn't let this pirate know that. The Captain looked throughly offended. He cleared his throat, then called out to one of his crew members.
"Aye, Cap'n," the pirate said.
"Bring up a few buckets of water for the young miss's bath. Tell Cotton that when he heats the water to make it extra warm. She will bathe in my cabin."
"I most certainly will not!" How dare he assume that she would bathe in his cabin.
"Then you will bathe out here on the main deck, in front of the whole crew."
Charlotte lowered her head in submission. Jack knew he had won. He smiled in self-satisfaction. He led the girl into the captain's cabin. It was still pretty plain after having being rid of Barbossa's things. Jack hadn't got around to redecorating yet. But he soon would, and made with the help of a woman's touch, he could restore it to grander heights than it had been. Yes, he planned on keeping his hot-tempered American captive around for some time more. She belonged to him, just like the Pearl belonged to him.
"Wait here, love," he instructed her as he led her into the main part of the cabin. He rummaged around and finally found what he was looking for: a fancy oriental dressing screen and a matching little silk robe. He set up the screen in a corner away from all windows. Just to make sure that the crew couldn't see this lovely new addition to their lives at sea.
Inspecting his work, Jack set to sorting through a pile of clothes on the floor. Charlotte soon realized that the clothes were the dresses that the crew had given her recently.
"As much as I like seeing you in those tight breeches, love," Jack said as he compared two different dresses, "I would much rather see you in one of these lovely things. Hmmm. . .Pastels. Horrid, if you ask me. How about we get you something more mature, darling? Ah, here's the ticket!"
From a trunk, the pirate captian pulled out a deep green dress. It was highly fashionable, and beautiful, but the colors and cut were that for a more mature woman, not a young girl like herself. Charlotte was weary of the gown, and therefore did not take it from Jack when he offered it.
"Don't worry, love, you'll look wonderful in it." The soft reassurance in his voice calmed her enough to take the offered garment. He handed her a few articles of underclothes, then turned from the cabin and left.
When she was sure he was gone, she threw down her bundle and hurried to the nearest window. She flung it open with a racing heart, which soon sank into her stomach. They were miles away from the sandbar that the Seahawk was stranded on. Even if she jumped ship, she would never reach the sandbar. She couldn't even see it anymore.
The urge to weep came upon her once more. 'Pull yourself together, Charlotte,' she scolded herself mentally. 'It's not as bad as all that. Don't let them see you weak. And you still have Ewing's gift. Don't forget about that. You could take that horrid man hostage, DEMAND parley, then--'
Her thoughts were interrupted as the cabin door opened again, and two burly pirates came in, carrying a large oak tub. Several more followed, each carrying two buckets full of steaming water. The water was poured into the tub, and the pirates left, and the captain entered.
"Not ready for your bath yet," he asked, a crooked smile gracing his lips. "Well then, maybe you need some assistance?"
"I can do it myself, thank you." Her back stiffened once more, elicting a laugh from him. He made a move towards her, reaching for her shirt. Charlotte fled behind the screen with the robe. She quickly changed. The pistol had to be hid. She stuffed it, along with the leather pouch, into the inside pocket of the dress.
She came around the screen, and panicked when she saw Jack sitting at his desk, the tub in front of him. Was he expecting her to bathe in front of him?! The bastard! Well, she knew how to fix his little red wagon. She pulled the changing screen between his desk and the tub with much effort. The thing was heavier than it looked. Jack was laughing at her again. The wise thing was to ignore him and just climb into the tub, but Charlotte wasn't thinking about what was wise or not at the moment. She was embarrassed, feeling trapped, and naked save for the thin, next-to-nothing robe.
"What, pray tell, is so funny," she demanded.
"Your little feminine pique, love."
"There is no feminine pique! And your accent is horrible. Stop trying to talk like a gentleman."
"Fine, luv, is this good enough fer ye?"
"That one is worse. Talk normal."
Jack chuckled. There was no pleasing the little wench. It was amusing to Jack.
"You know what else," Charlotte said from behind the screen as she climbed into the tub. She thought that since she had already started this little game of spite that she should go ahead and continue.
"I have the feeling that you're going to tell me, love."
"Your breath reeks of rum. It's no wonder that you have golden teeth if you drink enough to stain your breath. You should also bathe more often. You smell horridly. And you are covered in dirt, sweat, and Lord knows whatelse. And you also wear more eye make-up than my mother."
That was it. She had gone too far with that last remark. He came around the screen then. She shrieked and drew the towel into the tub to cover herself.
"Number one, it's NOT make-up! It's kohl! Second of all, it's strategic. It's to keep the sun out of me eyes. Got it, love?"
"But isn't kohl eye make-up?"
"It's--I--grrr!"
Jack stomped off around the screen and into his bedchamber. He slammed the door behind him. She had struck a nerve.
"Now who's the one with the pique," she whispered as she climbed from the tub and attempted to dry herself with the drenched towel. When she was as dry as she could get, she started pulling on the clothes. These had obviously belonged to someone else. The dress even smelled of a woman's perfume, roses to be exact. Whoever had owned this had gotten very liberal with the perfume bottle.
She finished straightening it just as Jack decided to come back. He had his mouth open to argue again, but stopped, his mouth still hanging agape. She turned to face him. It was sometime before he regained his ability to speak.
"I knew that dress would make you look good," was the first thing out of his mouth.
Charlotte huffed. How dare he say such a thing to her? Her, a gentlewoman from a good family!
"You will no longer talk to me! You will take me back to my crew and you will leave me with them! You will never search me out again!! Take me back now!!"
"'Friad not, luv. You're coming with me."
"When my uncle hears of this, he will have you hung! He's the governer in these waters! You will have to answer to him!"
Jack strode foward. Charlotte attempted to flee backwards, only to be caught once more by those strong hands, held close to that face, forced to look into those dark-lined eyes.
"What did you say, girl? Who is your uncle?"
"Governer Swann."
"Oh, not another one!" He released her and began to pace the floor. "I should have known from the temper! Runs in your family, I suppose? Gah, you even resemble her. Why does this always happen to me? Why? Why must I be cursed? What to do. . .Turner will know! I can just turn you over to him, and he can give you to her, and that'll solve that. Have to disguise meself, though. Don't much fancy a rope around me neck. GIBBS!"
The first mate came into the cabin as his name was called. He spared Charlotte a glance then turned to his captain.
"Yes, cap'n?"
"Look at the lass! Who does she resemble?! Please tell me that it isn't true, Gibbs!"
"Why, she bears a striking resemblence to Miss Swann now that you mention it."
"NOOOOOOOO!"
"She is my cousin," Charlotte said. "On my mother's side. I was going to visit her."
"Jack, we'll have to take the lass to her cousin. She'll be missed."
"DON'T YOU THINK I KNOW THAT?!"
"You'll need somewhere to sleep, miss," Gibbs said to Charlotte.
"Not the fo'castle," Charlotte protested loudly.
"Aye, not in the fo'castle," Jack agreed. "Gibbs, have a cot brought up from the hold. Our young miss will be sleeping in my cabin so that I can keep an eye on her and keep her out of trouble."
Charlotte started to complain, only to be cut off by Gibbs leaving and Jack going into the bedroom part of the cabin. She was left alone, seething, and just looking for something to take her anger out on. The first thing that caught her attention was a bottle of rum.
The crash that the bottle made when it hit against the the wall drew Jack from his bedroom. He knew exactly what had been smashed when he looked at the shards of glass, the liquid running down the wall, Charlotte looking relieved and a tad more docile.
"You smashed my rum...?" Jack looked as if someone had killed his dog. For a moment, he considered lashing Charlotte to the foremast and introducing the cat of nine tails to that back of her's. The urge was almost too much to resist. This was going to be a long voyage...
E N D O F C H A P T E R 3
Wellup, there it is. I'm sorry that its been so long in coming. I am quite lazy. I apologize sincerely. And now, for my special corner:
R E V I E W R E S P O N S E...
C H A P T E R 1 R E V I E W S...
Alexis4: The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle is a wonderful book. I agree that every young girl wishes to live Charlotte's life and to add piratical adventure and the sexy Captain Jack Sparrow in there is my way of putting my dream into words. I'm ever so glad that you liked it. Thank you for your review. You're so great. ^_^
Vireyda Magodaly: Awww, you're proud of me? -^_^- Sorry that I haven't continued that fast. Hope you aren't too upset with me.
Lauren S.: Sorry about marrying your boytoy off. I'm planning something for a later chapter that might appease you and your fellow Orli fans. Hey... BONG!
Heavily: Yay, you reviewed! I can't believe it. I'm so happy! ^_^ I inspired you? Awwww, I try. I actually got the name Ewing from the book The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. He's a cool sailor dude with a wicked tattoo, so he's like my hero or something, so I based a character on him. ^_^ Sorry about getting you in trouble again. And don't you even say that it wasn't my fault because I was participating in it too. But that's past now. Thanks for bearing with me through everything, Heav. You're a great friend, one of the greatest I have.
C H A P T E R 2 R E V I E W S...
Kelly Bean: I'll continue as long as my inspiration allows me. Thanks for reviewing.
Noemy009: You are so complementative(sp?)! You made me blush lol. I'm glad you enjoyed the story. Thank you for leaving such a wonderful review and brightening my day with your praise.
pIPPINpIRATE: I doubt its as good as Avi, but I try. Thank you for bestowing on me the honor of being compared to Avi.
Alexis4: No, I hadn't forgotten this story. Just had a bit of writer's block. Urg, curse writer's block. Charlotte/Jack action? Of course! What good would a pirate story be if the sexy Captain Jack Sparrow didn't get some action? And I like Charlotte well enough that I think she'd be good enough for Jack.
Dimonah Tralon: Do you really think its feasible? I wasn't so sure, but I'll take your word for it. Thanks! ^_^
Vireyda Magodaly: Cool name, by the way. Thank ye kindly fer stickin with me through the wait. Hope this and future chapters are worth the wait for ye. Thank ye, love, for adding me to yer Alert List. If the tides of inspiration permit, ye'll be getting more alerts from me. May ye always have a full tankard of rum and may the wind bring ye safely home again, love!
Heavily: Yes, crew. HAHAHAHAHA, maybe more. You never know with me. Jack can be your muse all you want, but he is still first and foremost my pirate slave and personal stripper. Keep your hands offa him, lass, ye hear?! LoL, thank ye for the review, lass!
And again, thanks goes to all of you for reviewing and sticking with me even though my updates are few and far between. Have to start watching Pirates Of The Caribbean more often. It inspires me from time to time. And now, for my shameless plugging act: There is an author on this site with the penname A Bonnie Pirate Lass. She is an awesome writer and one of my best friends. I reccomend her stories to any of you who are looking for a good pirate tell or two. She recently had a bit of a battle with FF.Net and was previously known as Heavily. Her work is awesome. So, read it if you have the time. Yes, that was my shameless plugging act. She's plugged me and I'm finally getting around to returning the favor. Well, that's it for this chapter. Sorry it you thought that it was long because of the story. You can keelhaul me if you wish. Just as long as I live to see another day.
May the road rise up to meet you, and may the wind be at your back, -Memory Untainted aka Nicolette-
Author: Your's truly, Memory Untainted
Rating: pg-13, I think. Strong language later on.
Summary: Pirates of the Caribbean/The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle crossover. The Seahawk is on course for Port Royal to deliever a "special cargo". A certain pirate crew comes across the Seahawk when it runs aground on a sandbar. The cargo falls into their hands. . .
Disclaimer: I do NOT own anyone from Pirates of the Caribbean or The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. As sad as that makes me. . . Please don't sue me, Disney or. . .the author of The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. . .Yeah, that. Anyone know who the author is? If you do, please enclose it in your review. I'd much appreciate it! ^_~
'. . .' - thoughts
". . ." - speaking
{. . .} - author's notes from me
. . .* - something that I am going to explain at the end of the chapter.
"/. . ./" - singing outloud
~~ - scene cut
Chapter 3
The next morning, the Seahawk set sail for Port Royal. Charlotte was high up in the rigging of the topgallant, looking out over the ocean as they sailed. She was sulking, actually. Last night the crew had taken a vote of what to do with Charlotte, and it was decided that she was to be taken to her cousin's home in Port Royal as planned, but left there while the crew went on a three month voyage to Scotland. The incident in Tortuga had been brought into the light and with places like Tortuga in Ireland and the wars going on constantly between the clans and the English, they decided that the safest place for Charlotte this time would be on dry land.
Of course the hoyden had complained, ranted, begged, and even went as far as to threaten to stow away. All of her actions had been in vain for the crew was dead-set against her coming along. The spiteful side of her couldn't help but feel as if the crew were abandoning her just to get rid of her. Maybe she was too much of a burden for them. Maybe they didn't even like her. Maybe this was just easier than throwing her off of the ship in the middle of the ocean. There wouldn't be murder accusations this way. Their consiciences would be clear.
Deep in her heart, she knew that that wasn't why they were literally grounding her. It was for her safety. But couldn't they trust her? It seemed as if one incident was enough to send them all into worry fits like a bunch of mother hens.
"CHARLOTTE!! C'MON DOWN, LASS, WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU!"
Fisk was standing at the bottom of the topgallant, looking up at her. The crew was gathered around him, with the exception of Keech who was handling the helm. Charlotte nimbly climbed down the ratlines to them. They all looked at her.
"We wanted to give you something, so we could make this up to you," said Zachariah.
They proceeded to give young Charlotte a variety of gifts, of which included a spy glass from Fisk, a new pair of breeches from Zachariah, a gold and emerald necklace from Barlow that he had been saving for his Providence sweetheart, sweet cakes that Morgan had picked up in Tortuga and Charlotte suspected to be covered in rum from the smell of them, a new dirk from Grimes, and a few other small trinkets from ports they had visited as of late. After she thanked each and every one of them for the gifts with a hug and the reassurance that she was not mad at them, Ewing pulled her off to the side.
"Here, Charlotte," he whispered. "I want you to have this. It is just in case of anymore trouble like what happened in Tortuga. You'll have to be espically careful with this gift, and there's also something from Fisk here too. We all fear for your safety, mermaid."
The blonde sailor held out something oddly shaped and wrapped in a handkercheif. Along with that was a small leather pouch, covered in turqouise beads. Charlotte carefully took the offered gifts. She slowly began to take off the handkercheif. When this present was revealed, she gasped loudly. It was a pistol! It was well crafted and just small enough to fit in Charlotte's hand. She examined it carefully. It's handle was made of fine wood with a mermaid carved into the handle. In the leather pouch was additional shot and a small bag of powder.
"Ewing. . . this is. . . a. . . a. . ."
"A pistol. Yes, I know. It's for your safety, as I said before. Take care of yourself, mermaid. Stay away from pubs. Have fun rubbing elbows with the fancy and well-to-do of the Caribbean-British society. We'll be back before you know it."
The mention of leaving brought the pain back. Tears welled up in Charlotte's eys again. Ewing quickly pulled her into a big bear hug, trying himself not to cry, and pressed his lips to her forehead. Both of their hearts were breaking. Charlotte broke away from him and fled to the forecastle, to the safety of her hammock.
He already missed her. Something on the deck in front of him caught his eyes. Laying there was her handkercheif that she had been using to wipe at her eyes. He tenderly folded the white cloth into a smaller square and put it in his pocket. At least he would have something to remember her by on the long voyage. The young girl had somehow gotten under his skin and worked her way into his heart. It pained him greatly to know that she would have to stay behind this time, even though he knew it was for the best.
"KEECH! KEECH! PORT! TURN PORT! NOT STARBOARD!"
The ship gave a huge lurch then a sudden stop. The crew members held on tightly so they didn't fly off overboard like poor Keech did. Captain Fisk rushed to the port side to see what was the cause of their stop. The crew heard his frustrated groan. They rushed to his side. Due to Keech's falling asleep at the helm, they had run aground on a sandbar. Keech was laying facedown in the sand, snoring loudly.
"All hands! All hands!"
The crew all reported on deck as they were called. Each of their reactions were much like Fisk's. Poor Keech had been worn thin lately, and the sun and waves had taken their toll on him, lulling him into a deep sleep.
All ten of the men jumped down onto the white Caribbean sand. The hull of the ship had been torn almost apart by the rocks in front of the sandbar. Freeing the Seahawk to continue sailing was hopeless.
"Men, we have two jollyboats," Fisk said. "There are ten of us. I want two men in the first boat to sail until the nearest port is reached. Get help of any kind and sail back here as fast as you can. If the first party doesn't make it back within a week, the second party will head out. Who will be the first party? Speak now!"
"Aye," shouted Barlow, then Ewing echoed his call.
"All right, we have our brave volunteers. You two jacks, head out. May God be with you."
Morgan lowered the jolly boat that Barlow and Ewing were in into the crystal blue water. Ewing took first shift on the oars, and Barlow manned the compass. They were out of sight in a matter of a few minutes.
A certain young female sailor watched them go from the decks of the now wrecked Seahawk. She prayed for Ewing with every fiber of her being.
~~
"Cap'n! Merchant ship off the port bow! She's wrecked on a sandbar, Cap'n!" Gibbs shouted to Jack, who was still at the helm.
"All right, Gibbs. Prepare the men for a little plundering. No killing, remember. Just take the goods and maybe we can find some way to help them."
Gibbs laughed. Even when planning the future events, the captain still thought about helping the stranded sailors. He was much more a man than Barbossa had been, though he was still a pirate, albeit a pirate with honor.
The pirates aboard the Black Pearl prepared themselves. The anchor was lowered, as were the several jolly boats for just such an occasion. Their swords and pistols were holstered in their belts so their hands were free. Jack was in the front jolly boat, standing at the bow, looking around regally. Jack was king and the ocean was his realm.
"AHOY!" he called to the men stranded.
"AHOY!" Fisk called back. "WHO BE YE?"
"CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW!"
Fisk and his men drew their weapons. Pirates. They were being apporached by pirates! Charlotte, who had come down from the ship, was quickly thrust behind all of them so she wasn't visible. Grimes stood in front of her, pushing a pistol into her hands.
"Stay out of sight, Charlotte," he whispered lowly. "Don't use this unless worse comes to worse."
"Right." What Grimes didn't know was that Charlotte had her new pistol stuck down the front of her canvas shirt. She wasn't sure about using either of them, but she would if there was need for them.
"No need for that," Jack said as his boat stopped in the sand and he swayed onto shore in front of the men. "All we want is whatever profitable cargo you may be carrying. Hand it over and we can be gone in a jiffy."
"We aren't carrying cargo," Fisk replied, which was quite true. They were only going to Port Royal to put Charlotte ashore with her cousin.
"You have to have something of value. Merchant ships always carry cargo. It's a well known fact, mate. No? All right, men, search them."
The pirates moved foward and did as their captain ordered. Two men were sent aboard the ship to search there also. They came back with the jewlery trinkets and the fancy dresses that were Charlotte's gifts. Just as these were turned over to Jack, the owner of said material posessions was discovered among her crewmates.
"Cap'n! What shall we do with this?" Annamaria led her over to Jack by her upperarm. Charlotte struggled against the pirate woman, but Annamaria, who was older and stronger, kept her in check.
"Ah, love, so nice to see you again," Jack said as Charlotte came into view. "She'll be coming along with us."
"Captain Sparrow, leave the girl here, please."
"Captain Fisk, I am afraid that that is impossible. You see, I plan to recruit this lovely young creature for my crew. Willingly or not. I'm afraid that if any of you moves that I will have to cause you slight bodily harm. Come along, dearest."
Jack threw his arm around Charlotte lazily, his pistol in his other hand. The crew didn't dare move as long as he had little miss Doyle as a captive.
"Parley," Charlotte shouted. Jack froze.
"What did you say, love?"
"I said 'parley'. You must grant me parley. Are you not a pirate, Captain Sparrow?"
"Aye, love, I am. But you are not, and therefore, the code doesn't apply. You have to be a pirate for the Pirate's Code to apply. To the boats, men! And let's get rid of this." Jack pired the pistol from Charlotte's grasp.
Annamaria climbed into a jolly boat, then Jack helped Charlotte in. He climbed in after her, then pulled her down into his lap, holding her tightly around the waist. She felt the anger burn inside her.
"All right, love?"
"I'm not your love, you horrid man. I do not wish to talk to you. Do not speak to me. In fact, get your dirty hands off of me. I have enough filth on me, and I do not need for you to add to it."
"You really are a hot-blooded American, aren't ya lass? I'm afraid that I can't let you go. Jumping ship and all that. Just sit still and enjoy the ride, love."
A thousand strings of curses that the crew had often muttered when going about their work and accidently hurting themselves sprang to Charlotte's mind. She considered screaming them at this man who dared to handle her so. But she doubted that they would aid in her release. They would just bring forth the captain's humor. Or anger.
She silently endured the captain's hands on her slender waist for the entire ride back to the huge ship that waited just off of the coast of the sandbar. The crew climbed back onto the ship, Charlotte included. The captain kept her close to his side with an arm flung lazily around her shoulders.
"This is me ship, lass. The Black Pearl. Isn't she a beauty?" Jack carressed the Pearl's railing as they walked up to the main deck.
"My father owns better," Charlotte said indifferently. Actually, the Black Pearl was one of the most impressive ships that she had ever seen. Though she wouldn't let this pirate know that. The Captain looked throughly offended. He cleared his throat, then called out to one of his crew members.
"Aye, Cap'n," the pirate said.
"Bring up a few buckets of water for the young miss's bath. Tell Cotton that when he heats the water to make it extra warm. She will bathe in my cabin."
"I most certainly will not!" How dare he assume that she would bathe in his cabin.
"Then you will bathe out here on the main deck, in front of the whole crew."
Charlotte lowered her head in submission. Jack knew he had won. He smiled in self-satisfaction. He led the girl into the captain's cabin. It was still pretty plain after having being rid of Barbossa's things. Jack hadn't got around to redecorating yet. But he soon would, and made with the help of a woman's touch, he could restore it to grander heights than it had been. Yes, he planned on keeping his hot-tempered American captive around for some time more. She belonged to him, just like the Pearl belonged to him.
"Wait here, love," he instructed her as he led her into the main part of the cabin. He rummaged around and finally found what he was looking for: a fancy oriental dressing screen and a matching little silk robe. He set up the screen in a corner away from all windows. Just to make sure that the crew couldn't see this lovely new addition to their lives at sea.
Inspecting his work, Jack set to sorting through a pile of clothes on the floor. Charlotte soon realized that the clothes were the dresses that the crew had given her recently.
"As much as I like seeing you in those tight breeches, love," Jack said as he compared two different dresses, "I would much rather see you in one of these lovely things. Hmmm. . .Pastels. Horrid, if you ask me. How about we get you something more mature, darling? Ah, here's the ticket!"
From a trunk, the pirate captian pulled out a deep green dress. It was highly fashionable, and beautiful, but the colors and cut were that for a more mature woman, not a young girl like herself. Charlotte was weary of the gown, and therefore did not take it from Jack when he offered it.
"Don't worry, love, you'll look wonderful in it." The soft reassurance in his voice calmed her enough to take the offered garment. He handed her a few articles of underclothes, then turned from the cabin and left.
When she was sure he was gone, she threw down her bundle and hurried to the nearest window. She flung it open with a racing heart, which soon sank into her stomach. They were miles away from the sandbar that the Seahawk was stranded on. Even if she jumped ship, she would never reach the sandbar. She couldn't even see it anymore.
The urge to weep came upon her once more. 'Pull yourself together, Charlotte,' she scolded herself mentally. 'It's not as bad as all that. Don't let them see you weak. And you still have Ewing's gift. Don't forget about that. You could take that horrid man hostage, DEMAND parley, then--'
Her thoughts were interrupted as the cabin door opened again, and two burly pirates came in, carrying a large oak tub. Several more followed, each carrying two buckets full of steaming water. The water was poured into the tub, and the pirates left, and the captain entered.
"Not ready for your bath yet," he asked, a crooked smile gracing his lips. "Well then, maybe you need some assistance?"
"I can do it myself, thank you." Her back stiffened once more, elicting a laugh from him. He made a move towards her, reaching for her shirt. Charlotte fled behind the screen with the robe. She quickly changed. The pistol had to be hid. She stuffed it, along with the leather pouch, into the inside pocket of the dress.
She came around the screen, and panicked when she saw Jack sitting at his desk, the tub in front of him. Was he expecting her to bathe in front of him?! The bastard! Well, she knew how to fix his little red wagon. She pulled the changing screen between his desk and the tub with much effort. The thing was heavier than it looked. Jack was laughing at her again. The wise thing was to ignore him and just climb into the tub, but Charlotte wasn't thinking about what was wise or not at the moment. She was embarrassed, feeling trapped, and naked save for the thin, next-to-nothing robe.
"What, pray tell, is so funny," she demanded.
"Your little feminine pique, love."
"There is no feminine pique! And your accent is horrible. Stop trying to talk like a gentleman."
"Fine, luv, is this good enough fer ye?"
"That one is worse. Talk normal."
Jack chuckled. There was no pleasing the little wench. It was amusing to Jack.
"You know what else," Charlotte said from behind the screen as she climbed into the tub. She thought that since she had already started this little game of spite that she should go ahead and continue.
"I have the feeling that you're going to tell me, love."
"Your breath reeks of rum. It's no wonder that you have golden teeth if you drink enough to stain your breath. You should also bathe more often. You smell horridly. And you are covered in dirt, sweat, and Lord knows whatelse. And you also wear more eye make-up than my mother."
That was it. She had gone too far with that last remark. He came around the screen then. She shrieked and drew the towel into the tub to cover herself.
"Number one, it's NOT make-up! It's kohl! Second of all, it's strategic. It's to keep the sun out of me eyes. Got it, love?"
"But isn't kohl eye make-up?"
"It's--I--grrr!"
Jack stomped off around the screen and into his bedchamber. He slammed the door behind him. She had struck a nerve.
"Now who's the one with the pique," she whispered as she climbed from the tub and attempted to dry herself with the drenched towel. When she was as dry as she could get, she started pulling on the clothes. These had obviously belonged to someone else. The dress even smelled of a woman's perfume, roses to be exact. Whoever had owned this had gotten very liberal with the perfume bottle.
She finished straightening it just as Jack decided to come back. He had his mouth open to argue again, but stopped, his mouth still hanging agape. She turned to face him. It was sometime before he regained his ability to speak.
"I knew that dress would make you look good," was the first thing out of his mouth.
Charlotte huffed. How dare he say such a thing to her? Her, a gentlewoman from a good family!
"You will no longer talk to me! You will take me back to my crew and you will leave me with them! You will never search me out again!! Take me back now!!"
"'Friad not, luv. You're coming with me."
"When my uncle hears of this, he will have you hung! He's the governer in these waters! You will have to answer to him!"
Jack strode foward. Charlotte attempted to flee backwards, only to be caught once more by those strong hands, held close to that face, forced to look into those dark-lined eyes.
"What did you say, girl? Who is your uncle?"
"Governer Swann."
"Oh, not another one!" He released her and began to pace the floor. "I should have known from the temper! Runs in your family, I suppose? Gah, you even resemble her. Why does this always happen to me? Why? Why must I be cursed? What to do. . .Turner will know! I can just turn you over to him, and he can give you to her, and that'll solve that. Have to disguise meself, though. Don't much fancy a rope around me neck. GIBBS!"
The first mate came into the cabin as his name was called. He spared Charlotte a glance then turned to his captain.
"Yes, cap'n?"
"Look at the lass! Who does she resemble?! Please tell me that it isn't true, Gibbs!"
"Why, she bears a striking resemblence to Miss Swann now that you mention it."
"NOOOOOOOO!"
"She is my cousin," Charlotte said. "On my mother's side. I was going to visit her."
"Jack, we'll have to take the lass to her cousin. She'll be missed."
"DON'T YOU THINK I KNOW THAT?!"
"You'll need somewhere to sleep, miss," Gibbs said to Charlotte.
"Not the fo'castle," Charlotte protested loudly.
"Aye, not in the fo'castle," Jack agreed. "Gibbs, have a cot brought up from the hold. Our young miss will be sleeping in my cabin so that I can keep an eye on her and keep her out of trouble."
Charlotte started to complain, only to be cut off by Gibbs leaving and Jack going into the bedroom part of the cabin. She was left alone, seething, and just looking for something to take her anger out on. The first thing that caught her attention was a bottle of rum.
The crash that the bottle made when it hit against the the wall drew Jack from his bedroom. He knew exactly what had been smashed when he looked at the shards of glass, the liquid running down the wall, Charlotte looking relieved and a tad more docile.
"You smashed my rum...?" Jack looked as if someone had killed his dog. For a moment, he considered lashing Charlotte to the foremast and introducing the cat of nine tails to that back of her's. The urge was almost too much to resist. This was going to be a long voyage...
E N D O F C H A P T E R 3
Wellup, there it is. I'm sorry that its been so long in coming. I am quite lazy. I apologize sincerely. And now, for my special corner:
R E V I E W R E S P O N S E...
C H A P T E R 1 R E V I E W S...
Alexis4: The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle is a wonderful book. I agree that every young girl wishes to live Charlotte's life and to add piratical adventure and the sexy Captain Jack Sparrow in there is my way of putting my dream into words. I'm ever so glad that you liked it. Thank you for your review. You're so great. ^_^
Vireyda Magodaly: Awww, you're proud of me? -^_^- Sorry that I haven't continued that fast. Hope you aren't too upset with me.
Lauren S.: Sorry about marrying your boytoy off. I'm planning something for a later chapter that might appease you and your fellow Orli fans. Hey... BONG!
Heavily: Yay, you reviewed! I can't believe it. I'm so happy! ^_^ I inspired you? Awwww, I try. I actually got the name Ewing from the book The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. He's a cool sailor dude with a wicked tattoo, so he's like my hero or something, so I based a character on him. ^_^ Sorry about getting you in trouble again. And don't you even say that it wasn't my fault because I was participating in it too. But that's past now. Thanks for bearing with me through everything, Heav. You're a great friend, one of the greatest I have.
C H A P T E R 2 R E V I E W S...
Kelly Bean: I'll continue as long as my inspiration allows me. Thanks for reviewing.
Noemy009: You are so complementative(sp?)! You made me blush lol. I'm glad you enjoyed the story. Thank you for leaving such a wonderful review and brightening my day with your praise.
pIPPINpIRATE: I doubt its as good as Avi, but I try. Thank you for bestowing on me the honor of being compared to Avi.
Alexis4: No, I hadn't forgotten this story. Just had a bit of writer's block. Urg, curse writer's block. Charlotte/Jack action? Of course! What good would a pirate story be if the sexy Captain Jack Sparrow didn't get some action? And I like Charlotte well enough that I think she'd be good enough for Jack.
Dimonah Tralon: Do you really think its feasible? I wasn't so sure, but I'll take your word for it. Thanks! ^_^
Vireyda Magodaly: Cool name, by the way. Thank ye kindly fer stickin with me through the wait. Hope this and future chapters are worth the wait for ye. Thank ye, love, for adding me to yer Alert List. If the tides of inspiration permit, ye'll be getting more alerts from me. May ye always have a full tankard of rum and may the wind bring ye safely home again, love!
Heavily: Yes, crew. HAHAHAHAHA, maybe more. You never know with me. Jack can be your muse all you want, but he is still first and foremost my pirate slave and personal stripper. Keep your hands offa him, lass, ye hear?! LoL, thank ye for the review, lass!
And again, thanks goes to all of you for reviewing and sticking with me even though my updates are few and far between. Have to start watching Pirates Of The Caribbean more often. It inspires me from time to time. And now, for my shameless plugging act: There is an author on this site with the penname A Bonnie Pirate Lass. She is an awesome writer and one of my best friends. I reccomend her stories to any of you who are looking for a good pirate tell or two. She recently had a bit of a battle with FF.Net and was previously known as Heavily. Her work is awesome. So, read it if you have the time. Yes, that was my shameless plugging act. She's plugged me and I'm finally getting around to returning the favor. Well, that's it for this chapter. Sorry it you thought that it was long because of the story. You can keelhaul me if you wish. Just as long as I live to see another day.
May the road rise up to meet you, and may the wind be at your back, -Memory Untainted aka Nicolette-