Chapter 54: Sinking Into Ideas
"I won't." Jack lowered his sword watching my mouth move without a sound. "I can't because I would hurt you." He offered the briefest of smiles slowly approaching us, a non-threatening look about him.
"Ye can't be serious mate…ye have been after me far too long to just…" I silenced Jack by cupping his mouth and ignoring his indignant look.
"Why did you follow?" I would deal with Jack being ticked with me later; I had ways of persuading him to shut up if I really wanted to.
Norrington cleared his throat looking very uncomfortable. "I needed to know if you really loved him…I didn't expect whom I found. Now I know why you defended him so vehemently back in Tortuga." He actually looked extremely shy at that point which made me wave my hand pressing him on. "You've been kind to me for a long time, always been a friend and I think I tried to make that more than it really was. It wasn't my intention it was more…
"Governor Swan pushing because I'm so different." He nodded almost looking like a schoolboy being punished; it was a side of James Norrington that was very different. "You aren't going to blow the whistle on Jack are you?" I didn't trust Norrington not to, I was too afraid of Jack being hurt without calling the commodore on it.
Norrington seemed to study us both, Jack clearly wasn't buying into what was going on and was ready to pull his sword to get free. "Believe me I want to Blair…" he glowered at Jack who easily removed my hand ready for trouble. "…but I can't because you will get hurt and as I overheard you love him, why I will never understand…but it is great to see you so happy with someone. It is something I could never have done and I get the feeling you might have attempted something on my well being if I pursued you in that sense." He winced uncomfortably at his own images playing in his minds eye.
Jack relaxed placing his arm lightly around my waist. "Ye mean we can put our differences aside?" this is where those eyes turned almost dangerous watching Jack carefully.
"Indeed…" Norrington offered a very forced smile trying not to comment further on his opinions of a peace between them. "…on two conditions Jack." I didn't like where this was going and was half tempted to knock him out and run off to the ship with Jack. "For once in your miserable life be truthful…do you love her?" I knew Jack did and it wasn't right for Norrington to force that from him, he didn't need to prove anything.
"He doesn't need to…
Jack lifted a hand silencing me and considered his options. Did he really plan on admitting this to the pompous annoyance before him to keep his skin intact and possibly keep her safe? "Aye…very much." He saw her eyes widen in astonishment by his answer, which made him smile slightly.
That was not what Norrington expected; he figured Jack would try every which way out of an answer, especially an honest one. "I don't believe it…you answered that far too easily." I gave Norrington a look that stated to go on with his stipulations and to believe it. "If she can do that to you, maybe she is right where she belongs." He hated to admit she was such a free spirit that only a pirate was good enough for her, but he could see it in her gaze and the way she looked at him. "If I keep this to myself, we need to do something with Becket and I will insist on your help for my silence…as much as I loathe the idea." He made a face that was priceless making me desperately resist laughing in his face.
"Agreed." I couldn't believe I had just witnessed James Norrington and Jack Sparrow agreeing to work together against a common enemy.
Norrington excused himself offering me a brief bow before going back to the party. I leaned back carefully against the hedges thankful that they didn't give under my weight watching him go. I just witnessed a peace between two men that hated one another, Elizabeth would never believe this. I saw Jack study Norrington's retreating form closely for a few minutes, before turning to meet my contemplative expression.
"What just happened?" He shrugged not quite sure himself, before gently tugging me from the hedges adjusting my skirts back into place due to being caught on one.
"Apparently we have a common enemy and Beckets much more powerful than we thought." He made a face glancing down the path we would again be traveling. "Does this mean we're friends or enemies that have to pretend to be friends?"
"The latter…James hates you. I'm just glad that his feelings were caused by Governor Swan's actions…otherwise he would have more reasons to truly despise you." His smug grin aggravated me, before he pulled me back into his arms stealing a deep kiss, lifting me up into his arms with that sly impish grin of his.
"Ye mean he doesn't already?" He chuckled allowing me to my feet and started back towards the mansion.
"He does." I continued to follow not daring to continue this banter, that gleam in his eyes already, indicated a long night and late afternoon rising.
Back with the party I froze watching Mercer bow toward me, before Jack laced his arm with mine leading me away. "Excuse me miss…do I know you?" if it hadn't been for Jacks arm locked around mine I might have run for it.
"Miss Blair Wyatt and Mr. Jack Parker?" Jack offered a small smile, forced naturally but tried to attempt politeness. "Friends of the Turners and…
"Ah yes, the former interest of the Commodore?" I bit my tongue hard enough to experience the bitter taste of blood in my mouth.
"It was by the choosing of my grandfather in England that it was in my best interest to be with a merchant, he doesn't wish for me to experience the risks of loosing someone I care for." I excused myself feeling Jack leading us toward Elizabeth and Will.
The night ended rather well and all on good notes. Norrington escorted us with assistance to the house in case of the nosy EITC getting any ideas of who Jack was. Once we got back to the house I was exhausted and didn't really care to budge from the carriage.
"You can't sleep in here." Elizabeth watched my look that stated contrary to that theory. "It wasn't that bad…
"True, but I am tired, sore and cranky. Mercer and Beckett are both menaces and Mercer gives me the creeps." I shivered at the possibilities of what could have happened if we hadn't been so careful with Jack. "Liz…we need to talk in the morning, all four of us." I added seeing Jack lazily lift himself from the carriage offering me his open hand in turn. "I don't want to…
"Lizzie, Whelp…ye don't want to hear what I'm about to say." The mentioned couple ignored the loathed nicknames rushing full tilt into the house knowing that tone far to well. "Ye can come willingly love…which ye will be doing once we get to our room." I flushed giving him a look that could freeze hell. "Do I have to take ye up there the hard way?"
"Manipulative aren't you?" I retorted grudgingly climbing out of the carriage, before brushing at my dress and glancing up the stairs. I glanced at his amused look and wondered if he would believe me. "Ok…would you believe I'm too tired to fall for your charms tonight?" the shocked look on his face was priceless, somehow I got the feeling he had never gotten that whole 'I'm too tired or have a headache' deal.
"Ye be evil darling." He added watching my eyes droop and smirking. "Ye aren't going to make it up those stairs are ye?"
"I'm going to try." I added shifting the heels off my feet the minute I entered the familiar house. "I hate these shoes, they kill my feet every time." With that said I left them on a table and proceeded to our room.
Jack followed behind loosening the nightmare suit he was wearing, while he proceeded to toss aside the garments hearing me shut the door behind us both. I slid out of my dress, thankful to feel air in my lungs again and hauled it to the other side of the room with a heave, before finding the bed and wiggling under the lumped up covers. A bed had never felt so good to me as it did at that point in time and once I was settled I was gone.
Knock, Knock
Reluctant to move I opened my eyes and glanced around. "Yes?" I barely managed guessing it was probably breakfast from the ever early rising Elizabeth.
The door burst open very quietly to reveal a familiar dark hair maid with a big smile on her face. She stepped into the room placing our breakfast on the stand beside the bed before gathering the previous nights clothing and leaving just as quickly. "Elizabeth is a morning nightmare, she doesn't understand the term 'afternoon'" ignoring the click of the lock going back into place I rolled back under the covers.
I felt a hand gently brush against my cheek and opened one eye to glare. "Ye still that tired love?" I nodded attempting to go back to sleep with little success. "It has to be around ten love." He brushed his fingers gently across my face getting me to reluctantly open both eyes and glare harder at him.
"You are not winning. I'm sleeping until noon or later period." I answered ignoring his amused chuckle and rolling away conveniently burying my head under the nearest pillow.
The arm that wrapped around my waist pulling me tight to him stated contrary to my belief. "Yer awake now." He added his hand easily traveling a gentle path across my body making me surrender yet again.
Again I was drawn into his embrace allowing myself to drift off into his gentle touches, tracing his body with my fingers feeling him drawing me into that strange place again where only the two of us existed. Each in turn memorizing the other, two worlds colliding in a moment of complete comfort knowing we were fit for each other on many levels.
Knock, knock (frantic knocking)
I glanced up through squinted eyes gathering it had only been about an hour; Jack lazily rolled lifting an arm around my waist and mumbled something tiredly. I figured if we ignored the knocking it would go away, which it gradually did finally.
Click CRASH
"BLAIR, JAMES IS DOWNSTAIRS!" Elizabeth's frantic call got me a quick flop to the floor and a startled pirate straight up staring at her like she had lost her mind. "He knows that Jack is…
"Ye bloody woman, we already know that." He easily lay back down with a snort before lifting the pillow over his head; he wasn't entirely ready to face the good commodore yet.
I easily pulled one of the blankets down around myself and using it like a towel shifted to my feet. "YOU two knew?" I winced hearing her sharp tone, honey eyes were narrowed in a dark look.
"Bad move Jack." Instead of answering her I proceeded to rummage among the much loathed dresses she had insisted on, finally pulling out a deep amethyst one and began to ready myself. It was going to be a long afternoon and I was very sure Elizabeth would have plenty to lecture us both about after this was all over with. Norrington clearly would be waiting to make plans, but he just had to drop in without so much as warning us to prepare. Clearly his intention was to aggravate Jack as much as possible. I thanked the maid for helping me into my clothing, smoothing out the skirt and exited to see he was still asleep and not cooperating with Elizabeth.
Elizabeth glared between him and me before a finger come within inches of my nose. "Downstairs both of you now." There was no warning within her tone, it was an order that would be obeyed or the both of us would surely get it.
Jack peeked out from under the pillow watching me adjust my skirts before my stare met his. "Lizzie doesn't sound pleased." I shot him a look followed by a finger. "Not nice darling."
"Get out of bed before both of us find ourselves walking a plank to a shark pit." I was almost serious, I knew Elizabeth's temper well and was sure neither of us were off the hook yet.
He sat up watching me with a peculiar expression on his normally amused face; he seemed to doubt how serious I was being at the moment. He focused his eyes along my dress before they come to rest on my face, with a groan that may have rivaled my own he slid from bed and proceeded to dress. "Lizzie is certainly persistent." He noted before tossing aside things for his effects.
Watching how he calmly ignored the huff from Elizabeth made me smile; he was acting just like he always did. Confident, cocky and sure that nothing would go wrong, I only wish I was so confident in the situation. Glancing around the parlor I took notice Elizabeth had her fixation on the flowery patterns and sighed glancing down at the gold colored carpet that blended perfect with the crème colored furniture and elaborate patterns. Sometimes her taste even would surprise me, especially when she had been around me for so long and still liked the frilly things in life. Norrington was talking softly with Will who gave me a pointed look which I knew meant I might be getting two lectures in one day, Jack just offered a half sort of smile settling among one of the couches lazily. I placed my hands on my hips in a Liz gesture giving him a look, for some reason I was sure he was up to something and I had been left out. "He better not do anything." I silently hoped knowing better.
Will watched Elizabeth settle into a routine of hostess insisting the maid bring refreshments while she neatened up the chair she was sitting in. She always did fidget when nervous and I was sure cutting the tension in the room with a sword would be very possible, the knife might break. I waited for one of the two to speak but no one in the room seemed ready to share the previous night. Norrington looked strangely pale and had circles barely under his eyes, Will seemed frustrated and I was wondering why Jack just sat there casually eyeing everyone in the room.
Will looked ready to slap someone before he finally broke the crushing silence. "What on earth is going on?" this got that same know-it-all half smirk Jack was famous for; he was enjoying this far too much for my tastes. "James…how did you…
"The good Commodore intruded upon our discussion last night." Jack met Will's intense gaze barely containing his amusement, I felt like smacking him at the moment.
I did not find any of this amusing at all. "He and Jack made a compromise to help get rid of the weasel in exchange for letting him remain undetected." I made sure Jack got my drift, I was very irritated right then. "James was kind enough to be a true friend and I want to thank him for that courtesy…don't expect them to like each other though." I added that seeing Elizabeth was about to question the matter further, clearly she got my meaning.
Norrington and Jack no matter the conditions would still loathe one another; it would just take a considerable amount of effort on Norrington's part not to just kill him. I found myself with a new respect for James Norrington and was very grateful for his understanding; it didn't mean that things would be easy when we were in Port Royal though. I had to face that one detail, no matter what those two would never learn to like each other, it was a compromise I was willing to accept though. I liked being happy and was glad that something had worked into our favor for once.
"Those two liking one another would signify that the world has stopped spinning." Remarked Will already seeing how this was going, he understood that the threat of Jacks life would remain hidden as long as we worked this mess out. "James cares for her in his own fashion, I'm glad for that much." Their secret would remain intact which took a considerable amount of pressure of the married couple. "What is your plan James?"
I watched Norrington rub his eyes tiredly, fingers resting against the bridge of his nose. "To be quite honest…I don't have one. I was up going through papers given to me by the governor, Becket has a legitimate standing for the time being…" he glanced around the group his eyes still weary. "…it would appear there is no proof that he's abusing his power, even if we do know he is." I saw Jacks smile fade to a dark expression, his fingers clasping in a praying fashion under his chin.
I had a feeling Jack had expected that and wondered what else he knew about the situation. "He won't leave proof in the open Commodore…Becket was never a stupid person." I saw that his stare was focused on a covered P brand, which was still bandaged to hide his identity. "Where is Mercer…that is where the proof would be." He was deep in thought; I could see him almost calculating things, eyes never focusing on one thing for long.
"Do you have any suggestions on how to deal with Lord Becket and find this proof Mr. Sparrow?" Norrington questioned sarcasm clearly in his voice at the turn of events.
"Captain." If looks could have killed, I sighed wondering if this was an example of two grown men acting like ten year olds on a permanent basis. I wouldn't deny it was amusing but it might get old eventually. "Mercer has the proof it is just a matter of getting said proof, at the most opportune moment." All eyes were on Jack seeing a scheme going on behind those dark eyes, he had a plan and I had a very bad feeling I wouldn't like the outcome of said plan.
"What are you implying?" Elizabeth's suspicion was obvious but it wouldn't mean he would give her a straight answer, we both knew that when Jack had something up his sleeve it didn't always mean we were entitled to the answers.
He carefully explained his plan to get the proof that Norrington would need, this involved a great deal of care and more than enough danger for any of us to care about. His plan was sure to accomplish what was needed to get Lord Cutler Becket out of Port Royal but it would also risk exposing him and the rest of us. Norrington was even paler than usual and Elizabeth had huffed leaving the argument about to be accomplished between myself and Jack. She already knew this was a bad idea. Will glanced between us before offering Norrington a drink in hopes of returning the color to his face and forgetting how risky Jack's scheme truly was.
I refused to meet his dark eyes and could sense his intensity. This was not only dangerous for him but it would put all of us at risk at being put to the gallows, Lord Becket just needed one reason and that would suffice. "You always have brilliant plans and somehow they work out in your favor…" I stopped standing and made sure I gave him a glare that could freeze hell itself. "…this time you are off your rocker, you are downright suicidal and taking us all down with you. I know you have every reason to want revenge and have this work….but even you have to admit this is the worst scheme you have ever come up with." With that I left the room, there was no way I was going to listen to his silver tongue this time.
--Jack's POV--
Sometimes he wished he would keep things to himself, unfortunately during her little rant Blair had been very right. This was the worst plan in his history and the most likely not to work out. He had even undermined the fact that Becket was smart and wouldn't be that easily fooled. Jack hated to admit this but he had to work with James Norrington and would need a reasonable plan that did not mean he would like this, or easily get along with the man. "Bugger it all…why did I ever get mixed up with feelings?" sighing with determination he climb to his feet and left the parlor trying to locate the four missing people.
"WILL!" that was good enough for him and he immediately turned toward the kitchen spotting all of them talking avidly and trying to convince Will of all people that it was not wise to go marching off to where Becket was staying and try to face off with him or prove he was the menace he was.
Clearly in Blair's opinion, Will had yet to learn what 'don't do anything stupid' entitled. "Ye win…what does the good commodore suggest?" everyone turned their attention from Will who winced knowing it was a bad idea and focused on a bemused looking pirate captain.
"First off help me talk some sense into Will." Blair stated before catching his arm and planting her feet firmly to the ground, Elizabeth grabbing the other and repeating the action. "You can't threaten him Will…
"Mate what are ye doing?" Jack grinned at the almost childish look on Will's face before the black smith finally surrendered.
Blair watched the surrender carefully just in case he changed his mind, or her next fear was Elizabeth loosing her mind. "This is ridiculous. That man should have been put somewhere for treason, maybe not knowing what I'm truly capable of would give me an advantage." He grumbled in miserable defeat hugging Elizabeth close.
With familiar hand gestures Jack began to work his magic. "Ah…it isn't a bad idea actually…" he considered the evil look he was getting from her and smirked. "…but it would not be best to go blundering into a fight with a man that could snap his fingers, which in turn could lead to ones neck being snapped by a noose. Not a good idea mate…not at all." He added offering a hand to Blair who eyed him almost suspicious of his intentions.
--Original POV--
Apprehension was in my movements allowing myself to go to Jack; I was worried Will hadn't been talked out of his attempted suicide mission yet. Gently his fingers wrapped with my hand placing his lips to my knuckles, before he pulled me to his side. His arm came to rest content around my waist and eyes sparked with mischief.
"Manipulative isn't he?" I stifled giggles amused with Elizabeth's comment; her smile was giving her away though. "So what do you and James have in mind Jack?" both rivals glanced at one another and then her in turn. "I hope it is infinitely more reasonable than your last bright idea." Dark eyes narrowed but it didn't phase that familiar smug look on Jacks face.
"It is Lizzie…because Mercer is going to disappear." Everyone turned to look at him with that statement; even I considered his comment ludicrous.
"How?" Norrington's dry tone brought attention back to the problem currently plaguing everyone.
A glint in those dark eyes made me stare at him like he was mad; he even appeared to be sharing something silently when his gaze turned to meet mine. "That is insane Jack…I don't think I'm going to like where this is going." His grin made me automatically cringe, I was right.
I shrugged watching Will and Jack exchange a look. "No way." Elizabeth stated firmly watching dark eyes turn to Will and then return to me. "That's bad!" She became flustered, wondering why Will appeared to be in agreement with something like this. "Mercer in Blair's world? He would think himself mad and…and…" She stopped there was no point in this, she was clearly out voted. "You are both crazy…what will he do to the man? "She indicated Jacks sudden dark look.
I flinched hearing two wine glasses consecutively drop; Norrington looked like he was ready to have a melt down and I felt considerably ill. "Madness." I barely managed watching Will and Jack appear content in this plan.
"I believe that Jack has rubbed off on you far too much Will…" Norrington turned to address the matter farther and winced watching Elizabeth's almost warning gaze, she didn't want anymore fights. "….of course who am I to argue?"
"NO!" all eyes turned to Elizabeth who immediately looked sheepish. "What I mean is…that could reveal everything and if that's the case Jack would be in more danger and all of us would be hung without question." This was the first time I could remember ever being thankful for Elizabeth's insistent safety issues.
I saw the stubborn streak in his gaze; Jacks insane idea seemed even more relevant with her argument. I knew Jack well, there was no talking him out of this and clearly Will had no argument to offer in this situation. I knew I had my stubborn side, there was no doubt in my mind, and I also knew that this was the worst way to go about the situation. Elizabeth muttered raising her hands in a gesture of defeat, while Will and Norrington eyed Jack very critically. A sharp knock at the door made all of us freeze.
In a panic sort of fashion Elizabeth waved her hands at Jack and me to get upstairs. This sudden interruption made Norrington pale even more. Naturally my curiosity won over common sense and I stopped just out of sight of the doorway, Jack casually leaned over my shoulder with that knowing smug look of his. Sometimes I had to think we were alike in some aspects and this was one of those bad ones. It was very risky because of obvious issues and if noticed now he had no makeup or disguise to protect him.
Elizabeth watched the maid quickly walk to the door and bow slightly allowing the guest to enter the house. Everyone had gathered in the entry way to greet the visitor or enemy, depending on ones point of view. I felt Jacks arm tense around my waist and frowned deeply seeing Lord Becket was the mystery guest. "Crap." I left my hand rest on Jacks arm sensing his issues and tried to ignore the panic that briefly flashed across Will's expression. After a moment Elizabeth seemed to gather herself and invited him into the parlor, she proceeded to keep him distracted with small talk.
"That isn't good…he's looking for something." I wasn't aware that the thought had escaped my lips before hearing Jack snort in a disgusted fashion.
I turned slowly meeting the hate filled dark pools of rage. "Ye understated that love…" he slid from behind me taking my hand with his and leading us both to the room we shared. "…he's here fishing for something to use in his favor, I think he has something in mind with yers truly." I made a face at that idea that was the worst possible answer he could have given me
"Or he already knows yer ere Jack." Both of us jumped turning to see Anna-Maria casually leaning against the wall hidden in our room. "We had to move the ship…tha man downstairs was gettin a bit close." He nodded leaving my side to discuss the Black Pearl matters with Anna-Maria, which left me to stress over the fact that either we were screwed or we were almost screwed.
Panic was not my best forte and at this point I was sure hyperventilating would not be the best of ways out of this current mess. I could just make out Anna-Maria and Jack speaking but couldn't tell exactly what they were discussing; I surrendered in that aspect turning my attention outside our room. I strained for any signs of trouble, warnings, or fights and was greeted with a strange unnerving silence. If one would drop a pin I was sure the whole town of Port Royal could hear it echo. I heard a slam from behind me and yelped in surprise, turning to the sound I was greeted with the less than graceful Jack who had found one of the tables in our room the hard way.
"Keep it down." I warned straining my ears for any sound that indicated we were found out.
Anna-Maria stifled amused laughter watching Jack stagger to his feet in a mocking rendition of me. "Ye be careful Jack she be liable to kick yer arse." I turned in time to catch his imitation and quirked a brow.
"He would win eventually Anna…I don't like the quiet." I frowned biting my lip, I had too many people to care about down with a very lethal man and was hiding like some damsel in distress.
I ignored the warning in Jack's dark eyes daring to hustle into the hall, I knew he wouldn't follow because of the risk but then again I had been wrong before. Once I was at the end of the hall I peered down to the main entryway and found absolutely nothing. No one was there and it was almost like the encounter had been nothing but spirits on the wind or something. "Liz, Will?" Now panic did hit, I felt the thrum of my heart under my palm and cautiously grasped my skirts to descend the stairs.
A hand shot out grasping me and pulling me back into the halls, another stifling my startled yelp. "Don't ye dare." I relaxed from my rigid state breathing deeply. "They can take care of themselves love, ye have no idea what that man be hoping for." Slowly his hold released which gave me the access I needed, he caught my wrist before my hand connected though. "What was that attempt for?" he had one of those half smirks; he knew exactly why I wanted to smack him.
"For nearly scaring my knickers off…not like you would complain." I added turning back to again attempt the stairs and finding resistance in the form of another hold on my arm. "Jack…if he hurts any of them, I won't care if I take this human life." His grip again loosened dark eyes scanning mine for the sincerity I knew was there.
"Aye…I get yer point love." With considerable amount of effort on his part, he dragged me back to our room and shut the door. "Don't make me tie ye up." He warned already knowing I would try to leave again.
I knew he would too, even if my concern was apparent he seemed positive that nothing was going to happen. I wished I had his confidence.
Knock, Knock
Anna-Maria cocked a pistol immediately at the sound eyeing Jack with trepidation, if this was the case that we were found out I would have no choice but to go with them. I knew for a fact he wouldn't leave me behind, give me a say in the matter, or let me attempt my own rescue. He had his own methods and I would just have to trust in them.
I heard another clicking sound and watched his pistol level at the door. "Love…be very slow about answering that door." His voice was soft with a low warning, he wasn't as confident in our safety as I once considered.
With my own form of unease I nearly crushed the fabric of my dress in my hands walking very slowly toward the door. "Open the bloody door already!" I nearly ripped my dress at Elizabeth's sharp tone before hearing both guns being lowered behind me with clicks indicating their disarmament.
"I could kill you." I growled opening the door with a flourish and wincing at the thud that echoed. "What the hell happened down there?" Elizabeth immediately stalked into the room giving me a look before her attention turned to Anna-Maria. "Anna…I think you might want to either go or return to where you were hiding." She nodded without hesitation disappearing out the balcony doors again.
"Lord Becket came to find out more on Jacks merchant trade…" she collapsed on the bed in a sprawled fashion before covering her face with her arms. "It took every once of willpower that I had to not panic and explain that Jack only was here for a visit and not working. I nearly fainted…I couldn't bloody breath." I smiled briefly at the dramatic side; sometimes Elizabeth would over exaggerate events.
Jack had his pistol ready again when voices come to a halt outside the door and two relieved expressions greeted us. "It would appear that Becket is not entirely convinced of Mr. Parker's facade…" Norrington stopped stepping far a way from Elizabeth's considerably evil look; clearly his usual drawl was not welcomed at the moment.
"Did Liz exaggerate?" Will gave me a look that indicated 'no' Becket would definitely prove to be an issue. "Right…I greatly dislike this situation." Clearly I wasn't the only one after seeing other soured expressions around me.
--Night in the Parlor--
Since our discussion Elizabeth, Will and I had been watching the two rivals go at each other for hours. Neither could agree on the simplest form of a plan, neither agreed to Jacks scheme and I was starting to wish I was watching my cousins back at ages six and seven. I had never in my life thought two grown men could hate each other so much as to act like children, at first it was greatly entertaining and then I got the reality check.
Elizabeth was contemplating her nails while watching Will pace off to the side. I considered the pirate and Commodore standing off before me and decided it would be much more appealing to watch reruns of Bevis and Butthead, in my opinion the worst thing that had ever aired on television ever. Frustrated with both men I decided to do one thing that I knew would get noticed, I stood up ignoring the Turners and left the room.
During my exit I turned to the left and made my way to the gardens out back. Perhaps this would remind the pair what exactly we were agreeing to fight on and that I was not in the mood for childish games. I wondered briefly what reaction I had received but then again could care less. I glanced up briefly and figured Jack and James had argued for nearly four hours straight, not including the two hours of insults before starting the conversation.
--Jacks POV--
He stopped in his most recent assaults to Norrington's propriety armor turning to watch Blair's immediate exit. "Where did she run off to?" Elizabeth smirked smugly at the confusion on both of their faces; her best friend had again succeeded in getting attention of two fools.
"Far away from the two kids fighting." Will stated with sarcasm before leaving to find himself something to drink, preferably very strong after the war between officer and pirate.
Elizabeth slowly stood to join Will. "Like Will explained…we're all tired of your bickering. She just figured if you noticed her disappear you would take the hint to work on it." She then turned with a huff stalking off after her husband.
"This is all yer fault." Jack noticed his accusing finger level with Norrington's nose and flinched. "Maybe they all had a point." He lowered his hand before giving James a dark look. "Stupid git."
"It would seem we need to put our disagreements further aside than I considered…" Norrington wrinkled his nose in a defeated way before meeting the dark scowl aimed at him in turn. "…in the meantime I would suggest you go after her." Jack wanted with all his being to hit the man, but he knew it would only prolong the lack of planning and growled his fair choice of curses.
"Bullocks." He hissed before making a heated exit.
--Original POV--
Glancing around the tall hedge mage Elizabeth had within her own yard made me smile slightly, she had it similar to the ones at the mansion only far simpler and more appealing. I settled on one of the stone benches eyeing the thick flowering bushes around me and decided that just maybe she had taste after all. The wind was light tonight with the hint of the perfumed flowers greeting my nose, I felt relaxed and sure of myself for the first time that night.
I jerked to a light sound glancing over the hedges to see a familiar figure ambling along the path in my direction. "Ah…at last the children have been sent to their appropriate corners." Sadly the punishment had been all ours to hear and my ears were still ringing.
I decided to play ignorant to see what the silver tongued master could accomplish; maybe that manipulative charming streak of his still had a few tricks? I smiled knowing that no matter how much I hated to admit it, Jack would eventually charm his way back into my good graces. "I see how Elizabeth keeps such a hold on Will and vice versa." I could feel him behind me and waited patiently for something to happen, I had no idea what he would do but I was sure it would be unexpected.
One thing Jack always had been was unexpected. I felt a soft almost delicate fabric brush near my face and turned to be greeted by one of the white flowers, a night blooming one at that. "Ye have a great way of attaining attention love." I resisted the urge to smile before allowing myself to accept the flower.
"You two were acting incredibly juvenile, I was not a fan." He sat down beside me waiting for me to turn and meet those dark orbs, which I did the minute I felt his hand gently grasp mine and pull it to his lips.
That smug know-it-all look was again giving him away. "Ye know that we don't like one another…" he paused seeing my attempt to resist smiling. "…what did ye expect anyway darling? A pirate settling for tea and conversation?" I couldn't help it; I had to laugh at the image he had provided.
"You're insufferable…but we both know that you two can work if you both make an effort. Stop hating each other long enough to get rid of the menace. I don't want his sidekick to help him figure out what is going on under his nose. I don't want to loose you." I saw his amusement fade; clearly his thoughts had again turned to revenge.
I had a feeling I only knew part of the story and that I would never fully understand his hatred until he completely confided in me. That would come one day or not, it didn't matter as long as we trusted each other. I stood gently tugging on his hand still clasped with mine and he soon followed that haunted look still there.
Instead of continuing back to the house like I intended Jack stopped me with a gentle pull. "Ye don't need to know why I hate him so much, you have enough reason……why do I get the feeling ye still would want to know?" I could see the concern there as well as a darkness that just lingered above the surface.
"I trust you…that is all that matters. I'm weird that way." He almost appeared ready to say more but again hesitated not sure entirely, or so it appeared that way. "Is there something…
"Yes…but I don't think ye need the imagery or the truth that could really do damage. You hate them and that is what's important. I do know that my plan will work…" he paused again considering something. "…ye trust me, ye trust him, can ye trust us to work together?" He was asking my permission to take Mercer into my world and probably beat the information or worse out of the man; I could see it in the care he was taking to get my permission.
I felt like I was in a cage of sorts, I did not like where this was going and was sure that he had more in mind than he was letting me in on. "James won't let him go that far…I am very sure he will stop him." Knowing that I would someday regret this I met those dark eyes and sighed.
Peeking out of one eye with a hesitant expression I nodded. "I will have to say yes, but only because I can't seem to say otherwise to you and you never let me anyway." I added deciding it would be useless to argue with him further, if he was this determined there was no way to stop it anyhow.
Before I was sure entirely of what was going on his lips were upon mine pulling me into a familiar warm embrace. I wanted to resist his pull but I swear the man had some sort of hold on me and my heart; I was forever his no matter what.
--Turner's--
Elizabeth glanced at Will over her wine glass watching him hesitantly lower the bottle to the counter. "Do you think those two will ever work this out?" her honey eyes scanned Will's expression for signs of truth and falsity in what he said.
"No…" he took another drink before eyeing Elizabeth with a scowl. "…but I am sure if Blair disappears enough something will happen, whether it be a good or bad thing." His attention turned to the shadow lurking at the edge of the doorway. "Not here…
"Jack is out finding her." Norrington stepped into the room looking more so tired than usual; he even seemed more agitated than they were used to. "That man is impossible to reason with."
"Obviously." Elizabeth hid her grin behind her drink, she left out the part that Norrington wasn't much more accomplished with reasoning in the matter either. "I'm sure once they return there will be a solution…
Everyone turned to familiar voices watching Jack halt allowing his arm to drop from Blair's waist. With a familiar flourish of hand movements all their questions were answered within a very short amount of time.
Jack wise to the reaction he would receive waited for all eyes to settle on him, before he continued. "My plan will suffice. We will come up with a plan to get Mercer into her world and proceed to get the information from there." Before the barrage of questions, arguments, and concerns were voiced he turned grasping Blair's hand and started to the stairs.
--Original POV--
Seeing the expressions Jack had left in his wake I admit was amusing, but I was far from relieved. No matter what this plan was dangerous and anything that could go wrong would probably start with the morning.
I was aware of movement beside me and almost afraid to see daylight allowed one eye to open. Being greeted with a cheery morning knowing your world was about to come crashing around your ears made me like them even less, I could feel the dread nearly making my stomach feel like a led ball. "This is not going to end well." I closed my eye feeling fingers tenderly brushing my hair from my face and sighed allowing a soft smile at the familiarity. "I trust him to do what is right and I trust Jack with my life also." That thought made me brave the day for the time being and very slowly I rolled to meet a soft smirk.
Lips gently met mine before dark eyes turned almost serious. "Ye look pale…paler than usual." I knew that my stomach was moving in a furious whirlwind of nausea and panic; I had not expected it to show in my complexion.
"I can't help it…this is still dangerous and people I care about most are in danger." I lifted the blanket up over my face in a form of protest, but they were again removed revealing him staring at me with a cocky smile. "I thought I was stubborn….maybe that is why I haven't turned around and throttled you." That gold tinted grin only widened before he stood gathering his effects and self together.
I regretted getting out of bed because I could feel the led weight in my stomach only grow in strength. Every fiber of my being was protesting this whole plan, I just didn't dare argue with Jack. Jack I could handle if I really wanted but I wouldn't for the moment. I steadied myself dressing slowly, I hoped that if I lingered he would come to his senses.
--Jack's POV--
His gaze followed her knowing she was troubled. He hated to admit it but even he was starting to see her point of view, which again brought about him cursing feelings into oblivion. He could tell she was taking her time on purpose in attempt to end this brilliant or not so brilliant plan. Cautious to her body language he come up behind her lacing the deep wine colored dress up and noticed her slump slightly.
"Blair I know that yer worried…" she turned blue eyes studying him apprehension in her expression. "…Ye need to stop that. Nothing will go wrong with this plan and ye forgot that Tia's infernal spell seems to be incredibly effective." He made a face realizing he was admitting that the voodoo woman had made a point. "When this works out Becket will be gone and we can again get on with finding the book and saving the world?" his finger gently lifted her chin to meet his dark gaze, he hated when her confidence would fade.
He realized in the time he had known her she went from on persona to another faster than any person he had known. He had to learn why she appeared to be so shattered in places and then so strong in others, another puzzle to the future woman that somehow got under his skin.
--Original POV--
That charm always somehow got through my barriers, he was the only man I knew that had that effect on me and even could use his infernal magnetism to convince most anyone he was good for me. I hated when he somehow seemed to win, one of these days I was sure I may have to put him in his place. An improbable assumption but it didn't hurt to hope.
I nodded allowing his arms to settle around me and leaned into his strong body, his heart and steady breathing calming my nerves to a certain point. The led feeling still remained in my body though, I felt like I was in one of those strange half awake dazes. His hand wrapped my arm within his and we proceeded out into the morning that would probably kill my nerves, making our way down to the kitchen where voices were already loud in discussion.
Jack went over to discuss plans with Norrington and hopefully do so without another war between the pair. James seemed awkward, frustrated and not ready for this sort of thing so early. Elizabeth calmly placed an arm around me in reassurance before noting my complexion and making a face, we both knew where this was headed.
Will nearly ran into the room before drawing everyone's attention to his heavy breathing. "Mercer is on his way here, I think Becket may have come to a conclusion about our story…" he paused running fingers through his hair. "…or he knows about Jack." He added meekly watching all eyes immediately turn to the door.
"Shit." I grimaced at the evil look Elizabeth gave me before she allowed concern to show. "Get Jack into Jack Parker fast." She timidly waved us from the room, a defeated sort of aura about her.
Once we were again in our shared room I noticed Jacks brow was rose and he appeared contemplative. I rifled through his disguises provided by Elizabeth and began to apply his necessary makeup. Not only did he look ridiculous in the disguise, he seemed troubled by something. I had completed the process glad that I had taken the class with Elizabeth and watched him stand staring curiously out across the ocean outside our window.
He turned sharply dark eyes leveled with mine. "Something is going on and I plan to find out what it is love. Ye ready for the plan?" my eyes widened, I could feel the anxiety again taking over my body. "It's the opportune moment." He added with a familiar wicked grin.
My heart sank when he grasped my arm and gently led me back to the others. Mercer had yet to get to the house and to add to my current grief Norrington was still in the kitchen.
"Liz and Blair." The two of us saw the defeated look shared between Will and Norrington, Will sighed giving us another apologetic look. "Foyer please and do be careful, we don't want this anymore out of hand than it will be." With effort Elizabeth proceeded to nearly drag my led footed form from the room.
Elizabeth sat down sharply on one of the couches wringing her hands, avoiding my stare at all costs. I already knew why she was scared, she had nearly lost Will once and it was again because of Mercer. I couldn't bring myself to sit, all I could do was pace in front of the fireplace sure that this would backfire somehow.
