A/N: Hello! I swear, you guys have no clue how badly i want this to be rated M. But i promised myself i wouldn't. -sobs- ANYWAYS! I finally get to write about the pirate journal! Hot dogs i'm having too much fun with this! Tell me how you guys like the journal entries! And our dear Salazar is growing up! -squeals- Oh and guess what? I got my computer yesterday! It's freaking beautiful! My sister's boyfriend is cleaning it and setting it up. He'll be returning it to me tomorrow! Oh i'm so happy! I also made a Tumblr and a Skype! So if you'd like to chat or just talk to me about the King of Slytherin, i'm always free! My Skype is NeonCandies (duh XD) and my Tumblr is PrussianCandy. Now for som reviews!
AzamiHanako: Thank you so much ;-; It makes me endlessly happy when people say they reread my fic.
Dick Tales: I think i should've stated this clearly before Arthur apparated. Apparation is actually allowed, it just requires a license. The reason as to why Hermione says they aren't allowed is because of spells made to keep outsiders from apparating inside Hogwarts. In my fic i should've expressed that those spells were removed AFTER the dark lord was defeated. I apologize for the miscommunication, that's on me. Sorry.
HaruHasu: I'm pleased that you like Franux. This is the first review i've had about him! I intend to have him appear more in the future. At first he wasn't going to appear at all, but then i recalled that Arthur did promise to show him Salazar when the dragon was hatched. I'm also glad you like his personality. When i thought of Franux, he just didn't seem normal to me. I decided to make him a little... odd? And yes i know i brought sex up in the last chapter, kinda did in this one too. But alas, no sex ;-; Even though i can easily change it to rated M, it would just mess up the flow of the story. So the first FF i'll ever write with sex will be the Epilogue to this one! I've already got a title for it XD Then comes the Alpha and Omega AU. That'll be fun~ It won't just be from Arthur and Alfred's point of view!
Alba The Great: I kept grimacing every time I wrote out Jessica's name. Though I'm not done with her yet. ;v; And yeah, Al is kind of an idiot. He's pretty oblivious too... but that's just Alfred huh? Can't read the situation! Also, yay for Franux and Wulu!
ZanyAnimeGirl: The best encouragement there is.
And here is the next chapter! You have no clue how many times i had to go back and reread the dates to make sure they were reasonably spaced apart and the year was the same.
"Alfred F. Jones, unhand me this instant!" Arthur shrieked, swinging his legs and aiming to kick Alfred.
"No way!" Alfred laughed happily.
He had waited outside Arthur's class right before lunch, making sure to stay down wind so Salazar couldn't pick up his scent. He then moved quickly and snatched up Arthur when the Brit was defenseless. Arthur was now flung over Alfred's shoulder with no way to escape. Salazar was trailing behind, walking on the floor while looking up at his mother's bright red face.
Arthur let out a long string of curses, fuming angrily in every language he knew. Salazar's eyes grew wide at his choice of words, but he didn't say anything. Frankly, he was having fun watching his father pull another one of his stunts. Whenever he did, his mother always forgave him instantly. Though he wondered if they would be able to go visit Franux and Wulu today. From the looks of things, Salazar doubted it. He sighed, rolling his eyes slightly.
Alfred more or less dropped Arthur on the grass of the Hogwarts field. He placed his hands on his hips, leaning over to scowl at Arthur. "Now don't you run off this time. Understand?"
Arthur sent him an annoyed glare. "Wanker."
Alfred smiled, nodding his head and taking that as a yes. "Good!"
Arthur jumped when Alfred dropped to his knees and took Arthur's hands tightly into his. "Artie, I love you."
Arthur's face exploded in different shades of red and he sputtered stupidly. Sure Alfred had said he liked Arthur, but he'd never said "love".
Alfred leaned in, stealing Arthur's lips. He let go of his hands and snaked them up Arthur's back, causing him to shiver at the touch. Alfred then tangled them in Arthur's unruly hair, yanking him closer as he licked at Arthur's bottom lip. Arthur unconsciously parted his lips, too lost in the intoxicating feeling. Alfred fought for dominance in the kiss which Arthur was more than happy to comply. Alfred explored every spot in Arthur's warm mouth, loving the feel of their tongues sliding against one another.
When he broke away with a loud smack, a thin trail of saliva was all that connected their lips. Arthur's cheeks were flushed slightly and his eyes were half lidded. He licked his lips in a dazed trance. Alfred cupped his cheeks and made Arthur focus on him.
"Arthur. I love you a whole lot and I'm sorry for not trusting you. I was being stupid and doubting your feelings. I should've put my faith in you and told you instead of hiding it from you. I promise it won't ever happen again, not ever. I swear I'll make it up to you, so please forgive me." Alfred's eyes told how serious he was, not at all wavering in the slightest.
Arthur forced himself not to agree right away. Instead he acted as if he was thinking over his answer. From the corner of his eye, he noticed that Salazar was being wise and keeping a distance, letting his parents have their personal time. Looking back at Alfred and holding his gaze, Arthur let out a sight.
"Git… I forgive you. It's not because you said you love me or anything like that, I'm simply tired of being mad!" Arthur huffed.
Alfred grinned and pulled Arthur into a chaste kiss. They parted slowly and Alfred rested his forehead against Arthur's, sighing. "Thanks Artie. I love you."
"Y-you don't need to keep saying it. I heard you the first time." Arthur muttered.
"I know, I just like saying it over and over again." Alfred hummed happily.
Arthur scoffed, "Idiot."
That night Alfred transformed into a werewolf as he would continue to do every full moon. Salazar had trouble falling asleep, the idea of his birthday being tomorrow left him very energetic. Alfred set to work on that, he and Salazar playing many games that consisted of running around the Room of Requirement. Arthur let them do as they wished, blocking them out while he wrote down in the notebook his brothers had bought him for his birthday. He already had an idea burning in his brain, mainly a story about a dragon going on an adventure in order to protect his homeland.
The next day at breakfast, all of their friends had gathered to give Salazar gifts. They mainly consisted of food, all of them knowing Salazar shared his father's love of food. Though when the mail arrived, not only did Salazar have mail addressed to him, but so did Alfred. Salazar had two things, one was a small little box while the other was a rather impressive sized package. Alfred had gotten a rather thick, book shaped package from Marie; he could only guess as to what it was.
Salazar had Arthur help him open his package from Marie, the larger of the two. Inside was a large box filled with gingerbread cookies and strawberry tarts, both of them being Salazar's favorite snack of all time. While he wanted to eat them right then and there, Arthur had scolded him and told him that he could have one cookie after dinner every night if he behaved. The other package was a small box from Antonio. The item turned out to be a personally customized snitch.
Taking it out of the box for closer inspection revealed that Salazar's name was engraved onto the golden ball. On the lid of the box was written a small little note that said: "This is for him to chase when he's flying. –Antonio". Arthur figured it was for exercise and what not. Salazar was already in love with the gift, cooing over it and squealing happily. It took a lot of convincing to calm the dragon down with the promise of going out into the field after lunch to play with it.
"What did my mother send you?" Arthur asked, raising a brow at Alfred.
"I have a guess…" Alfred untied the brown string, removing the paper wrapping from the book. Free of its thin protection, Alfred examined its contents. It was leather bound, thick and sturdy. The front of its dark red and brown cover had nicks and marks here and there, the journal gaining them over the years. In fancy black letters written on the front of the book was "A.K". Alfred opened it to the first page and noticed a separate letter in there, one that was signed by Arthur's mother. Taking it out and closing the book, he read the single post card.
"'I told you I would find it. Here is the book I promised you, sorry it took a while to get. Take good care of it alright? Some of the entries aren't there, you know how it is with books and age. But that's only a few! The Kirkland air loom is now in your possession so treat it well! This signifies that you are now a part of the Kirkland household, I welcome you my darling son-in-law. Take care of Arthur and Salazar for me. Love Marie.'" Alfred grinned, setting the letter down and smiling across the table at Arthur.
"Hear that? I'm her son-in-law." Alfred wagged his eyebrows at Arthur.
"Oh really? Who are you marrying? Allistor?" Arthur pretended to gasp. "I'm surprised he hasn't told anyone of his dashing bride!"
"Artie!" Alfred stuck out his tongue and shuddered. "That's so gross. Ew."
"You started it love." Arthur hummed, sipping his tea.
"Not the reaction I was going for Artie. Not cool dude. Not. Cool." Alfred resting his chin on the table, pouting sourly at Arthur.
The Brit ignored him, munching on a muffin whilst keeping an eye on Salazar. "Hay Artie?"
"What poppet?" Arthur asked, taking a bite of his muffin.
"I love you." Alfred grinned when Arthur choked on the piece of food. Arthur downed his cup of tea furiously, patting his chest roughly while coughing.
"You… fucking… wanker!" He said between coughs, his cheeks a beet red.
"There it is." Alfred hummed happily, reaching for his own muffin and eating it. Arthur scowled, flipping him off angrily. The American laughed, not at all offended.
That night Gilbert hosted a mini party for Salazar in Arthur's dorms since they had enough room and had no one living with Arthur. Salazar had fun, needless to say. Everyone had crashed at Arthur's room instead of going back to their rooms because of the abundant amount of free beds. Arthur and Alfred had shared a bed together. Salazar had fallen asleep on Gilbert's chest, having passed out with the Albino. The first five minutes when everyone was almost asleep, Arthur had smacked Alfred's wondering hands away more than once.
Alfred would start out with his hands on Arthur's hips, then slip them to his back. After that they would travel down towards his ass. The first time Alfred had given it a firm squeeze, making Arthur jump and yelp. Everyone had sat up at that, watching Arthur pummel Alfred with a pillow while yelling at him in Werewolf. The other times Arthur yelped they simply ignored it along with the sounds of Alfred being shoved out of the bed and falling on the floor.
By the 7th time, Gilbert had gotten up and stalked over to their bed. He grabbed Alfred's shirt and yanked him up, tossing him on the bed with Jack. Both he and the Aussie let out whines and complaints. The glare the red-eyed man sent them shut them up. They had then reluctantly shared the bed, trying not to fight over the covers and who was hogging the pillow more. It was harder for the two of them to fall asleep, though everyone else had no trouble.
The next few weeks went by at a quick pace. Alfred would catch Volmer talking to Arthur and flirting, easily angering him. Though he would calm down with Arthur easily brushed it off, not at all baiting the fish. Salazar had started flying around more and more. While Arthur was in his classes, Salazar had decided to stop accompanying him. Instead he would fly around Hogwarts, perching on the roofs or chasing after birds and having a snack or two. At first Arthur was a little sad at that, but when Alfred had pointed out that it meant Salazar was growing, it had cheered Arthur up.
The dragon was currently perched on the roof of the ballroom. He was curled up and listening to the HufflePuff head talk to the students. He had his eyes closed and his chin resting on his arm, his tail curled up at his side. Though he looked like he was asleep, he was actually listening intently. Arthur and Alfred were both in this class period together, why they were, he didn't know. He just knew his father's Astrology class was combined with his mother's Care of Magical Creatures class.
"The Yule Ball is coming up. As you may know, it has been a tradition of the Triwizard Tournament for a very long time. On Christmas Eve night, everyone eligible to go, even our guests, gather in the Great Hall for a night of proper socializing." She spoke clearly and loudly, making sure she was heard over the students.
They all went quite as they listened intently, watching her with excitement dancing in their eyes. "You are representing the host school, therefore you must be on your best- and I mean best- behavior. The Yule Ball, as the name implies, is in fact a Ball. Therefore, there will be dancing required."
The boys let out groans of displeasure whilst the girls all whispered to each other excitedly. Arthur perked up, not joining the boys in their displeasure. He rather enjoyed the idea of dancing. He knew how to Waltz, Tango, and even how to do the Foxtrot. He glanced at Alfred from the corner of his eye. He was staring up at the ceiling slumped in his chair. The Gryffindor looked uninterested in the notion of dancing, he actually looked bored with the idea. Arthur scowled, trying to smother the feeling of disappointment as he looked back at the professor.
"Quite down now!" She scolded lightly. Clearing her throat, she began again. "The dance will be the Waltz, as it usually is. Do I have a male volunteer to help demonstrate?" She looked expectantly at the males.
It was obvious to see the shift of focus in the room. All of the males were looking this way and that, avoiding eye contact with the teacher. Arthur, however, raised his hand with confidence. The professor smiled happily, nodding to Arthur.
"Mr. Kirkland, thank you for volunteering!" Alfred snapped to attention as he watched Arthur moved to the center of the room with the professor. She waved for a student to put the music on before standing in front of Arthur. "Are you familiar with the Waltz?"
"Very." Arthur informed with a small incline of his head.
She nodded and they assumed the position, Arthur obviously taking the man's role. They started moving just as the music began playing. Though Arthur didn't need it, the professor counted out the steps just for clarification to the other students.
"One two three and one two three," She repeated. "Come together children! We'll begin practicing!" She told the others.
The reluctance was evident, only the females standing up from their seats. Arthur and the professor broke apart, waiting for the men to join. Arthur scowled at Alfred, clearly displeased he wasn't standing up to join him. After much struggling and the threat of lowering their grade, the professor succeeded in making the boys stand. Alfred unenthusiastically stood in front of Arthur, pouting slightly.
"Do I have to do this?" He whined.
"Yes." Arthur tried to even out his breathing. This is something trifle, no need to get angry just because Alfred is obviously unwilling to dance with you.
"This is lame." Alfred sighed.
Arthur's eye twitched and he forced himself to keep a steady face. "Darling…" He began softly.
"Might as well get this over with." Alfred let out another long sigh, taking up the male's role in the dance.
"Can you even lead?" Arthur raised a brow at him.
"I'll figure it out."
Arthur scowled, annoyed that Alfred was taking things so lightly. He grudgingly allowed Alfred to lead, though he was in fear of his toes. Alfred managed to step on Arthur's toes even when he was looking. Every five steps led to a hiss followed by a quick "Sorry". Though when Arthur looked up at Alfred's face, he could tell the American wasn't taking this seriously. Arthur let go of Alfred, almost yanking his hand away.
"That's it for today! Please go over what we learned! There is only so much time till the Ball!" The teacher warned.
Arthur stomped away from Alfred, leaving the American bewildered. "Artie? What's bugging you?" Alfred walked quickly in order to keep up with Arthur's brisk walking.
"Nothing! Nothing at all! See you at dinner Alfred! Salazar, it's time to go!" Arthur more or less yelled.
Salazar got up, stretching out. He leapt off the roof, gliding out along the wind and riding it to Arthur. He flapped his wings, landing on his mother's back. Alfred was left watching both of them leave, utterly confused as to why Arthur was pissed off at him yet again. He sighed, shaking his head and walking back to his room. He had something under his pillow that he had been eager to read. He had told himself to put it off until he raised that blasted grade of his; thankfully he did, so now he could read it to his heart's content.
He practically ran to his room, leaping onto his bed and pulling out the diary. Those hanging around the dorm room looked at him curiously, wondering what had his attention. Alfred paid them no mind, focusing only on the book. Opening to the first page, he carefully ran his fingers over the yellowing paper. Grinning like a mad man, he looked at the neat hand writing, the loop of the letters and the dips of the ink.
"August 8, 1820
I found this empty journal upon my pickings, I assumed it would be rather useful. I am Arthur Kirkland, pirate captain to the Britannia Angel."
Alfred shivered slightly. It was scary how he and Arthur shared the same name, even the last name was the same. Though since they were a direct descendant it was only logical, as scary as it was. He shook his head, continuing to read the first journal entry.
"I have been a captain since I was a mere lad of 19; I've been sailing since I was 6. My father was a pirate, though why he didn't have me join him on the seas till I reached the age of 6 has always avoided me. The eldest in our family, the one born before me, shunned the pirate life. Instead he chose to start a pub. I refuse to ever call him my brother. I stopped seeing him as a sibling the moment he turned his back on our father. My mother died to sickness, the poor dear. That was at least 8 years ago. My father has recently passed and has dubbed me his successor to his beloved ship. I have plundered, fought, and murdered. I have seen the disgusting world I call home in all its glory, the good and the bad sides. I am 23 years of age and I have already marked my name as the most notorious pirate sailing the seven seas."
Alfred let out a whistle, completely blown away. Apparently, captain Kirkland had been pirate captain for only 4 years and already he made a name for himself. Not to mention all the things he's seen and done. Alfred wondered if the captain was ever lonely, seeing as how he had no living relative other than his brother. Though he didn't seem to like him very much. Alfred hummed slightly, turning the page.
"August 16, 1820
We had recently run into one of the Queen's navy. Those fools thought they could take on my glorious ship and her crew. I sent them to Davy Jones locker, the lot of them. The Britannia Angel received some damage however. We will need to doc for repairs. It has been quite some time since I have visited Tortuga, almost five years in fact. I tended to avoid the island even when my fame grew great. Though I think I'll find it entertaining to watch those Bilge Rats scramble over themselves in order to show off in my presence. We should dock within two days, though, that's if the sea is kind to us."
"Alfred has a book! Dude is the world ending or something?!" One of Alfred's dorm mates cried as he entered the room and spotted Alfred. He sat at the base of Alfred's bed and watched the boy. Alfred was lying on his back, fully engrossed into the leather bound journal. He shoved Alfred's leg, "Hay Alfred, let's go flying! Come on, I'll race ya! Oh! And bring Salazar too! I'm in the mood to race a dragon!"
Alfred grunted in displeasure at being interrupted. He turned on his side, pouting slightly. "Not in the mood for it."
"Not in the mood for flying!?" His friend gasped in horror. Looking at the other boys in the room, he put a hand to his chest. "Guys! I think Alfred's sick!"
"Dude, leave him be. Shouldn't we be happy he's reading?" One of the others sighed.
"I'm surprised he can read." Another joked.
"I can hear you ya know." Alfred scowled.
His friend shoved Alfred's leg once again. "Come on dude! Let's go outside! Forget the book!" The boy hesitated. "What's it about anyways?"
"It's a journal from a pirate." Alfred sighed, sitting up. "Look, I'm gonna go someplace else to read. It's too loud here."
With that Alfred got up from his bed and slipped out of the dorms. Any other day he would've dropped everything to go and race his friends, but he'd just started the journal! Already was he so captivated by the book. The Arthur writing it sounded so much like his Arthur. Though he'd only read two entries so far, he could already point out little tidbits.
He and Artie both write the same way too. Well, there is a slight difference. Like with Artie, his L's are a bit more slanted and not so long. And with the O's, this guy has a weird little tail on the side of it. Artie doesn't have a tail on his O's. The slant of their writing is the same though. Alfred paused from walking up the stairs, a blush creeping up his cheeks.
"I really pay attention to Artie's writing, don't I?" He asked himself, not really expecting an answer. He continued walking up the stairs and to the special room. The room only he and Arthur went to.
When he reached the Room of Requirement, he wasn't surprised that it was empty. The room had changed to match what he wanted, which was a quiet place to read. The room had shrunk down to a comfy size, the only thing in the room being a large bed covered in soft pillows. He grinned, closing the door behind him and leaping onto the bed. He settled down into a comfortable position on his stomach and set the book in front of him. He hummed to himself as he opened the journal to the third page, starting to read the next entry.
Before he knew it, Alfred had read at least 20 or so entries. When he slipped out of the room, people were walking down to lunch. Alfred's stomach rumbled at the thought of food. He bounced happily, skipping to the Great Hall. He hugged the book close to his chest, already in love with it. The entries all had their own little adventure, no matter how short. Sometimes they were filled with rants, other times they just had updates on what was going on at sea. Alfred had only stumbled upon two pages that had been ripped out, why, he had no clue. He had forced himself to not skip ahead when reading, though it had been real hard not to.
Alfred sat with Arthur and Salazar, making sure to keep the book safe from the food. Arthur seemed in a better mood, smiling slightly as Alfred sat down.
"Hello love." He greeted.
"Sup?" Alfred smiled right back.
"Hi daddy." Salazar purred.
"Hay bug." Alfred pat the dragon on the head.
"I take it you've been reading that book mother sent you?" Arthur raised a brow.
"Yep! Have you read it before?" Alfred grinned.
Arthur nodded, "Yes actually. How far along are you?"
"I just finished the 20th entry or something." Alfred hummed, waiting for the food to appear.
"Oh?" Arthur frowned slightly. "Well… be prepared darling."
"Why?" Alfred tilted his head to the side.
Arthur hesitated, biting his bottom lip. "The entries… They become a little sadder as you go along."
Alfred jumped, "Don't spoil it!"
Arthur, a little taken aback, let out a small laugh. "Don't worry darling! I'm not going to say where exactly it starts to get sad. But it isn't for the entire journal dearest."
Alfred pouted, leaning across the table. "You're just saying that."
"I'm not." Arthur hummed, raising a brow in question as Alfred continued to hang over the table. "What?"
"Can I have a kiss? I haven't kissed you all day!" Alfred pouted.
"I kissed you this morning after breakfast." Arthur rolled his eyes despite his smile.
"But that was hours ago!" Alfred whined.
Arthur sighed as if it was a chore. He leaned forward, cupping Alfred's cheek with one hand. "Oh fine. I guess you've been a good boy."
"You bet! It should be a long kiss." Alfred wagged his eye brows.
Arthur rolled his eyes and gently placed his lips upon Alfred's. It was a slow kiss, force applied here and there when needed. When they parted, Alfred was grinning like an idiot.
"Another one?" He asked. Alfred puckered his lips like a fish and made kissing sounds.
Arthur scoffed, shoving Alfred's face away. "I think not."
"Boo." Alfred grinned, turning to Salazar. "How about you? Will you kiss your daddy?"
Salazar purred, climbing over the table and stopping in front of Alfred. He stretched out his neck and licked Alfred's cheek, causing him to giggle at the tickling sensation. Salazar happily licked Alfred a few more times before bounding over to Arthur and licking him.
The food came a while later, instantly grabbing the attention of the two famished males that shared their love of food. Salazar waited for Arthur to set up his plate, bouncing eagerly at the sight of food. Alfred piled on a bit more food than usual, suddenly real hungry. While they ate, Salazar had finished his plate quickly and was asking for seconds. Though he didn't stop there. He had a third plate, a fourth plate, and even a fifth plate! Alfred was surprised at how much the dragon was eating.
"You sure you can eat all of that? You've already had two turkey legs and an entire chicken." Alfred commented on the dragon's choice of food. He was on his sixth plate which had consisted of an entire chicken, two turkey legs, and four large pieces of salmon.
Salazar nodded, swallowing the fish meat, bones and all. Arthur watched him intently. He had finished his food by Salazar's third plate and had sat silently, watching his dragon practically breathe in the food.
"Dude, I've only had seconds and I'm full. How can you keep eating?" Alfred was surprised, this was the first time Salazar had eaten more than him. "You're gonna eat yourself sick!" Alfred faintly recalled Arthur telling him the same thing once.
"But I'm still hungry!" Salazar whined after he finished his second fish.
"Growth spurt." Arthur finally said.
"Eh?" Alfred turned to look at him, taking his focus off the dragon which had started eating his third fish.
Arthur looked up at him. He was holding his chin with one hand, his elbow in the other. He had a look of pure concentration on his face, his eyes calculating. "When one goes through a growth spurt, they eat more than usual. Salazar, being a dragon, already has a big appetite. Since he's eating far more than usual, I can only conclude that this is a growth spurt."
"You sure? Could be something else." Alfred leaned back in his chair.
Arthur raised a brow at him, "Then what do you suggest?"
"You've been starving Salazar?" Alfred grinned.
Arthur scowled, pouring milk into a bowl and setting it next to Salazar's plate of food. "Here love," He said, ignoring Alfred. "Drink something to wash down the food."
Salazar nodded, turning his attention to the bowl of milk. He drank with the most manners he could muster, seeing as how he couldn't drink like a human. Arthur pat him affectionately on the head, smiling down at him. Salazar showed a sharp toothed grin, turning back to the last fish and tearing into its flesh. He ate the entire thing, not leaving a bone or fin to show there had even been a fish. He practically licked his plate clean, burping happily.
"Pardon me." He mumbled.
Arthur let out a small chuckle, "Finished?"
Salazar nodded and licked his jaws. Arthur took a napkin and whipped off any food bits Salazar's tongue couldn't get. Alfred smiled at them, his eyes filled with a sweet warmth. Alfred wondered if this was how his own dad felt when he saw his mom and him. Alfred couldn't help but feel like a dad. He didn't care if Salazar wasn't genetically his and that Arthur wasn't really married to him; he still felt like they were like a real family and that was enough for him.
"Hay Artie?" Alfred hummed.
Arthur paused and glanced up at him across the table. Alfred had his elbows on the table and he was resting his chin in his palms, watching the two of them with a dreamy expression.
"Yes?" Arthur asked cautiously.
"When we get older, let's get married."
Arthur blushed brightly, "W-what? Alfred! Don't joke like that! Those jokes… t-they are not funny."
Alfred gave him a calm smile, one that was relaxed and content. "I'm not joking Arthur. I really wanna get married to you."
Arthur ignored the happy squeal coming from Salazar and a few of the girls watching the little discussion. Now was not the time to glare at the other people for eavesdropping. Arthur looked away and at his hands resting on his lap. He tugged at his coat, wringing it in his hands. He was blushing brightly, fully embarrassed.
Arthur bit his bottom lip and mumbled, "Well… They have legalized same sex marriages in Britain…."
Alfred's face broke out in the happiest grin Arthur had ever seen. He looked like he wanted to launch himself at Arthur, the only thing preventing that was the table in-between them. Instead he reached out and grabbed the Brit's cheeks, pulling him forward. He smashed their lips together and kissed him passionately. Arthur let out a happy hum, enjoying the action wholeheartedly. He kissed back without caring for the fact that they were putting on a show for the others sitting at their table.
Arthur and Alfred smiled like dorks throughout lunch, Salazar sharing in their giggles. They parted ways after that, much to Alfred's disappointment. Salazar and Arthur were going into the woods to visit Winter and everyone else. Alfred respectfully declined their offer of joining them. He instead went back to the room of requirement and curled up with the journal. Alfred felt a surge of pure glee fly throughout his body.
"Let's do this." He took a deep breath, opening the book.
"November 14, 1820
I will never forget this day, not ever. Today we were docked in Tortuga. It wasn't for repairs or anything like that, it was simply because my men have done well and they need a good whore and some rest. While they did whatever it was they do when we dock here, I went to the pub I frequented with my father. Apparently in my two month absence from the blasted island, they had hired a new hand. Now mind you, I have had my share of women. Almost all of the women in Tortuga wish to sleep with me."
Alfred paused to roll his eyes, "Someone sounds full of himself."
He focused back on the words, a smirk pulling at his lips.
"I have had my share of lovers, some I even take again. But never, in all of my years of living, have I ever felt this way about someone. So why, I can't possibly fathom, am I attracted to a fellow male?"
"Woah holy shit!" Alfred whistled. "Does liking dudes run in the family or something? Well…. I don't think Allistor likes dudes…. Maybe it's just the name "Arthur" that makes dudes like dudes." He shrugged, looking back at the page.
"The fool had no clue who I was, which was kind of a good thing. He didn't talk to me in fear or politely, in fact he bluntly insulted me a few times. Mainly about my eyebrows. There is nothing wrong with them! Nothing wrong at all! It isn't my fault it skips a generation! Anyways, the fool saw me come in and acted as if I was a normal costumer. Though he had less manners than me, and this is coming from a pirate. But that lad had beautiful eyes, they reminded me so much of the sea I dearly love. I caught myself staring at him on more than one occasion. I don't think he noticed. From what I can tell, he's pretty oblivious."
Alfred paused, tilting his head to the side. "Eyebrows huh? Looks like it does run in the family." Alfred had the fleeting fear that he and Arthur's children would have Arthur's eyebrows. Then he shook his head and scolded himself for forgetting that he and Arthur were guys, not girls.
"November 20, 1820
Let me just say this clearly, I am NOT delaying going back to sea. I just think my men deserve a few days of rest. They don't seem to be complaining and neither am I. My time is spent more on land than on my beloved ship, surprisingly. Can you assume as to where it is? Correct, sitting in the pub nursing some ale while I stare at that blasted boy. From what I've learned, he's barely 17. That's at least a 6 year difference for us. Now some girls are being wed at the age of 13 to men who are at least 25 or higher, but I'm not those girls! I am the captain of the Britannia Angel! I cannot be chasing after some brat who was suckling his mother's tit whilst I was pillaging ships!
During a discussion earlier today, I also learned the boy was born and raised far across the sea. I have no clue where, but apparently it was on an island. He's friendly, too friendly. I wonder why the lad is working here of all placed. It's unsanitary and disgusting. Whores, Pirates, and all the things wrong with the world can be found here on Tortuga. He isn't bad company, he's just too energetic. In exchange for information about himself, he asks questions about me. I've yet to tell him my name, but I'm positive he'll learn about it sooner or later. I know his name however, though to prevent problems in case someone happens to stumble upon my journal, I won't put his name."
Alfred couldn't help but snicker. "Oh man, this Arthur sounds head over heels in love with this dude! I mean, 6 whole days on land? I thought he was a notorious pirate. He's sounding like a love struck school girl right now!"
"December 1, 1820
We ran into some other pirates today. We sunk their ship faster than they could blink. As for the prisoners? I don't take prisoners. No, I did not slaughter them. I may be a pirate, but they pose no threat to me without a ship. I left them to fend for themselves amongst their wreckage. I haven't seen the lad from Tortuga since I left. That was on the 21. That day I knew I had to leave or I would've been lost in his blue eyes. I would've replaced the sea I love so much with them. He's like a siren, I barely escaped his grasp. I do not intend to see him anytime soon. Hopefully in my absence, he'll leave Tortuga and sail somewhere else to find work. He is too sweet for such a corrupted place."
Alfred noticed that there were two pages ripped out. He pouted slightly, wondering why they were missing.
"December 28, 1820
I told myself I would not return to Tortuga without good reason. My fool of a cook demanded we dock because we needed new food. Apparently the fruit and vegetables have become "inedible". What's a little mold on them? It gives it character! Though the peaches looked something close to a rock, though not as tough. If anything, they squished easier than a bug. Anyways, we docked in Tortuga today and I forced myself to stay on the ship. It wasn't hard, in fact, I think I'll stay on the ship for the remainder of our time here. That would be the safest thing to do. Tomorrow we'll be buying the needed supplies. I must stay on the ship and make sure everything goes according to plan. It's a good excuse to stay onboard, in my opinion."
Alfred pouted slightly, "Dude, if you like the guy then why are you avoiding him? You shouldn't do that! Though… he isn't in the 21st century. They weren't as understanding of same sex relationships back then, huh?" Alfred asked the journal even though he wouldn't receive an answer.
"January 1, 1821
I did not expect to run into him at all. Not once. Yet there he was! Turns out the lad was helping load up the ship. When I came out of my cabin with a hangover strong enough to hurt Poseidon, I did not wish to see him of all people. Needless to say the boy was quite fascinated and in awe that I was the captain even though I was still so young. Then when my men said "Good morning Captain Kirkland" as usual, his eyes practically popped out of his skull. He was acting like a complete child, telling me how it was extremely insane on how he knew the dreaded pirate, Arthur Kirkland. He reacted completely different than everyone usually does. He was more fascinated than frightened. Sometimes I wonder if this boy is an idiot or just pretending to be."
"January 5, 1821
While I avoided leaving my ship, that idiot took to visiting me directly! He shows up relentlessly day after day! Though I've stopped complaining when he boards my ship without asking, I still find it annoying when he prances into my quarters all willy-nilly! Just this morning he dared to break down my door and launch himself onto my bed claiming it to be a "wakeup call". Even when I dragged him to the side of the ship and tossed him off, he floated in the waters laughing up at me. Then he climbed back up on deck and picked me up! He was pretty strong, which surprised me. But that wasn't the last of it. He then threw me- ME, Captain Arthur Kirkland of the Britannia Angel- off the side of my own ship!
Now let me clarify this, I've never learned how to swim properly. Sure I can stay afloat for a minute or two, but I can't move. My men know this and they know better than to say anything. That fool didn't know that! When my first mate, Daniel, practically screamed I couldn't swim, the boy ended up looking horrified. I think he panicked because he thought he'd just sent me to my death. After I was pulled back onboard, it took about three of my men to hold me back as I tried to slit the lad's throat with my cutlass. Daniel calmed me down while they sent the boy home. I intend to set sail tomorrow at sunrise, I refuse to even see him. Not after this stunt. Even if my heart demands I forgive him, my head is the one in charge."
Alfred scrunched up his nose, "Well that's lame." He paused and blinked in surprise as he realized something. "Dude…. This guy swims better than Artie, he can actually stay afloat."
"January 6, 1821
What a fool I was! I let Daniel talk me into waiting a while longer because some of the men had decided to spend the night in the bars of Tortuga. I grew enraged with every passing second! I threatened Daniel that if they didn't get their arses on my ship within the next 10 minutes, I would hang them by their toes and use them as shark bait. Daniel sent a few of the men out to go and retrieve my useless missing crew. While they were gone, that boy stopped by. He more or less begged that I forgive him. He then noticed that we were preparing to set sail. I never did expect him to look so crestfallen. It reminded me of a kicked puppy to be honest. So I did what I had to, I told him I would return on the 20th of February. When he smiled at me, oh gods, I swear my heart did all kinds of flips."
"January 10, 1821
I catch myself thinking more and more of that boy when I have nothing to do. It drives me crazy just writing about it! When I think of him, my heart clenches and fills me with such a warm feeling. I'm supposed to be a deadly pirate, not a mushy house wife. Yet the more I refuse to think about him, the more I end up doing exactly that! Today I woke up from dreaming about him. I'll admit, it wasn't the purest dream one should have, but I dreamed it nonetheless. I'll also be honest when saying that it scared me. I dreamt how it'd feel with his hands sliding against my body, our skin pressing against one another, and the noises he'd give off as we both reached ecstasy. I should regret such a dream, but I don't. It intrigues me as much as it disgusts me. I've never felt such a strong want for someone before, let alone a man. I can't help but wonder if he feels an attraction to me."
"January 12, 1821
There was some interesting events happening today. A ship was spotted heading right for the Britannia Angel. It wasn't the Navy, a merchant's ship, or a pirate ship. It was in fact, a messenger ship. Though it was one for pirates. The easiest way to tell if it's a messenger ship for pirates is the flag it carries. If it is a white flag with a black skull and crossbones, then it is a messenger ship for pirates. They are specifically not to be harmed under any circumstances. But if they opened fire, then the other party was allowed to send their ship down to have tea with Davy Jones. Anyways, the captain of their ship had a letter for me. It was addressed from one of my old friends who had left piracy to join some fool on his quest. My friend's name was Salazar Slytherin."
Alfred gasped and let out a small squeal. "Dude! Arthur's ancestor knows Salazar Slytherin! He knows him!"
"My friend left with others like us. When I mean "like us", I do not mean pirates. No, I mean people affiliated with magic. I had always been different, be it I could grow plants or somehow create a fire. I met Salazar when I was 14. We were docking at a port somewhere on the British Isles. Salazar and I both could tell we were one in the same from the moment we made eye contact. After that day we made sure to keep in contact with one another. Be it by owl or by pirate messenger. At any rate, he had stopped being a pirate in favor of a proposition Godric Gryffindor proposed to him. To form a school for students able to use magic like us. He offered me a position, telling me it was bound to succeed. I refused no matter how many times he asked me. The sea was my home, I would never leave this behind."
"January 19, 1821
Salazar's letter had indicated that they had started the school. They had named it Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He yet again offered me a position, telling me it would always be open. I caught myself wondering if I should join. It shocked me because I then thought of that boy and if he was the same as me. I easily got rid of that thought. There was no way I would ever leave the sea. It was even more preposterous that I would even think of that lad! If he knew I wasn't normal, he'd stop talking to me and would avoid me. Hell, he might even tell everyone! I'd be trialed for Witchcraft and burned alive! Or worse, I would be forced to drown in the water I've come to call home.
The idea shouldn't even cross my mind. It is merely a simple crush, nothing more. I should not even have the urge to tell him anything about myself. Ah! There I go again! Thinking about that annoying brat! His deep blue eyes that constantly remind me of the sea, those wheat blond locks, his rambunctious laughter, and that smile. Oh gods that smile. How I've come to miss it so. I wonder if he misses-"
The word after that was scribbled out furiously. Alfred blinked in surprise, "This captain really has the hot's for him…" He turned the page, noticing a few sheets had been ripped out. He read the entry before the pages that had been mutilated.
"January 23, 1821
We ran into another pirate ship. Bloody hell, they actually dared to attack us. We came out victorious, obviously. There's no way the Britannia Angel would ever lose. Anyways, there was damages, like any fight. I myself was wounded, though it isn't as serious. I just took a cutlass to the gut, nothing new. We have to dock sooner than expected at Tortuga for repairs. After this I dearly intend to stay out at sea for another month or two. Daniel tells me we shouldn't engage in anything until I'm fully healed, that stupid wanker. Even though he's my first mate he orders me around. Well, no harm in listening to him I guess.
What's annoying is that it'll take around three days to reach Tortuga. I'm a little on edge if I ponder about it. When I think of how soon I'll be able to meet-"
Alfred blinked in surprise. The name had been scribbled out repeatedly. He could barely make out any of the letters under the heavy coating of ink.
"-It makes me nervous. I wonder if he's missed me and if he's been thinking about me. I ask myself if he might feel the same way I do. I'm not sure how far my feelings for him go, but I understand that they might be a little more than a simple crush. I'm not confident enough to name it with that word, but I can tell it's stronger than just a mere infatuation. As I'm sure I've written before in my previous journal entry, I catch myself thinking about him more and more when I'm not occupied. Seeing as how I'm wounded and refrained from doing much of anything, it has been happening frequently."
The next entry was skipped all the way to February 5th, which confused Alfred. Why had Captain Kirkland torn out the previous entries? The American wondered if they were even more personal. Or perhaps they were just as unbearable?
He bit his bottom lip, "This is the last entry I'll read. Then I gotta go and do my homework…" He tried not to groan.
"February 5th, 1821
I said I would return, but that fool did not believe me! After he saw that I was wounded when we docked, he panicked and fretted over me like a mother hen. Did he forget who he's talking to? Anyways, so when we prepared to set sail yesterday, I told him I would return as I promised. He looked utterly unconvinced. I should've known better than to let him do whatever he wanted while I made sure the repairs were fine. When I had finished checking, the lad was nowhere to be seen. My men had also not seen him. We assumed he had left so we set sail. It was stupid of me not to check the entire ship! When we were a good ways from Tortuga, I heard my men yell of a stowaway. I don't know why he jumped to my mind first. I stormed out of my cabin, ready to slit the throat of the filthy rat who thought it wise to hide aboard my ship.
But it was that fool! He was grinning up at me like a child who was caught stealing cookies! He dared to sneak onto my ship and hide below deck! When I more or less dragged him into my quarters and demanded why he would do something so foolish, he told me his reason. Such a stupid reason that made my heart flutter and my cheeks rosier than… well… a rose! It was because he was afraid if he let me sail away, it would be the last he would see of me. He said he wished to be by my side to protect me. I tried to tell my heart to calm down and not jump to conclusions. But I can't help myself and think: could he possibly feel the same as I do?"
Alfred nodded, closing the book reluctantly. "You go dude. Catch your man." He slid off the bed and out of the room, heading towards the Hogwarts dorms.
"Maaaan. I wanna read more of it!" He paused, looking down at the book. I wonder what Artie meant when he said it gets sadder? Oh! Don't tell me Captain Kirkland's love dies! Ah shit that'd be horrible!" He hugged the journal close. "Damn it! I wish I didn't have homework. This is the first time I've found a book so interesting!"
He pouted, trudging into the Gryffindor common room and towards the 4th year dorms. He cursed his homework, debating whether or not he could set it on fire. He sighed, gently putting the book under his pillow so he wouldn't be tempted to look at it. He focused on his homework, urging himself to finish.
"Come on, the sooner you're done, the sooner you can read before dinner!" With newfound determination, Alfred set to work on tackling his homework.