Once again I just want to thank and recognize Rat who is completely
responsible for the next couple of chapters. When I read her story I fell
absolutely in love with it and just had to incorporate her great idea into
this story. As much as I'd love to take the credit myself, she really did
come up with a great idea, so check out "Devil's Blood" to see where it
came from and I'm sure you'll notice TONS of similarities. Thanks so much
for letting me borrow it.
**************************************************************************** *****************
The rest of the day passed without much excitement on either ship, and by 9:00 just about everyone was relieved to see Passions Cove growing larger before them as they sailed towards the horizon. With the exception of a few smaller boats, the small harbor was almost empty. The people of the little island were a secluded bunch, whose only contact with the outside world was the visitors that stopped there. Passions Cove was a favorite spot among most pirates, the island was like a miniature version of Tortuga with more of its good points and fewer of its bad. The main tavern, which stood fairly close to the waterfront along with the inn, was called the Rusty Nail. The owner, Rubina Ramirez, was a prominent figure in island society. Besides owning the inn and Rusty Nail, she also owned most of the other buildings in town which she rented out, as well as over half of the "real estate". Were there a system of government in Passions Cove, she would undoubtedly run it.
Docking at Passions Cover however, was always especially difficult. Having such a small harbor, pulling one ship in successfully could take several attempts, let alone two. It wasn't very often that Jack admitted when he was less than perfect at something, but when it came to the wrath he would have to face from Juli if he did damage to the Renegade, he quickly abandoned ego. She's the one who wanted this oversized tank, so she's the one whose going to deal with it, he thought to himself. Besides, he was more concerned that no ill doing befell his own ship anyway.
"Ana", he called to his first mate, who was running around on the main deck preparing to land. "Go and get Juli would you?"
"Aye, Cap'n."
"I'm right 'ere", a voice answered before Anamaria even had the chance to move.
"See, good as new", Julianne continued stepping onto the quarter deck and twirling around, bottle of rum in hand.
"Someone's awfully pleasant after their nap", Jack observed. "Good timing anyway. 'ere you go", he added stepping back from the helm.
"Since when are you so quick to give up command", she asked stepping up next to him and taking the wheel.
"Since it requires me to dock this incredibly dopic ship in that incredibly tiny harbor. I" he added, "am going to dock my own ship."
"She's too much for you then" Julianne asked referring to her ship. "I thought there wasn't anything the amazing Captain Jack Sparrow couldn't handle."
"I can handle it. I just prefer not to 'ave you breathin' down me neck over it."
"Oh, so it's me you can't handle then", she said with a smirk, pacing over to him haughtily with a tempting look.
"Actually, its Dipst handling the Pearl I'm worried about", he criticized her first mate lightly, not taking the bait. Then, in one swift movement, he grabbed the bottle of rum out of her hand, spun around, and headed for the stairs.
"I bet it is. Go on then amateur, let a real captain show you 'ow it's done" she taunted jokingly as he walked away.
"Yeah, yeah", he called back over his shoulder. Crossing the main deck, Jack pulled himself up onto the railing by the rigging, pushed off, and swung himself across and onto the Black Pearl. Laughing to herself, Julianne grasped the wheel with both hands and looked out into the dimly lit harbor. Beside the Renegade, the Pearl slowed and pulled back, and Juli looked over to see Jack was now at the helm. On the lower levels of her ship, the crew began lowering the sails, slowing their pace to a gentle glide. Jack was right, no doubt about that, pulling a boat the size of the Renegade into Passions Cove required a certain level of skill that had taken Juli years to perfect. Turning the wheel carefully and commanding the positioning of certain sails, the captain maneuvered the Renegade into the harbor and docked as though she could have done it with her eyes closed. As the anchor splashed into the water and the plank lowered, the Pearl slid in next to the Renegade with ease and followed suit.
"Alright mates", Julianne announced stepping up to the railing that overlooked the main deck. "Don't go getting' too comfortable, we aren't stayin' long. Enjoy yerselves tonight cause we got a lot o work tomorrow." After a chorus of "Aye, aye Cap'n", Julianne left the deck satisfied and exited the ship with Ana and Elizabeth close behind her.
"So, where are we headed?" Elizabeth inquired as the trio stood on the dock waiting for their companions on the Pearl. Ana and Juli exchanged a look over her head.
"To the tavern o course", Ana answered, "where else 'ave you ever seen us go after dockin'?"
"You certainly don't want to eat in the galley again if you don't 'ave to?" Juli asked.
"No, I guess I don't."
"Now hold up there Cap'n", Ana cut in. "I always thought you prided yerself on 'avin the best galley of any pirate ship on the seas."
"Of any ship aye", Juli agreed, "but I'd still rather a good ole tavern dinner anyday."
"And don't forget a good jug of grog", Elizabeth added. As soon as the words left her mouth, both pirates turned and stared at her in disbelief.
"I'll be damned", Julianne exclaimed, "we just might make a decent pirate out o you yet."
"I don't necessarily know if I like the sound of that", Will's cheerful voice joined into the conversation, and the three women turned to see he, Jack, and Dipst approaching.
"I don't worry luv", Julianne reassured, "I'm sure its nothin a few days back 'ome won't undo."
As the six of them fell into step, with Jack and Julianne at the head of the pack, the began making their way for the tavern for some dinner. Just as they were stepping off the end of the dock, two enormous men came up to them and each took Jack and Julianne by the arm.
"We've been waiting for you", the man holding Jack grunted.
"I wasn't aware we were expected", Jack said in his typical cocky manner.
"Oh, you've been expected alright. You've been expected for some time now", the man holding Julianne now added.
"Come on, let's go", the first man spoke again, and both Jack and Juli were pulled roughly along, with their four friends trailing behind them. A step behind their aggressors, Jack and Julianne both exchanged a confused look, but found themselves unable to speak to one another.
"'xcuse me just a second luv", Julianne finally decided to speak up in a sickeningly sweet voice, pulling slightly backwards to get the attention of the man dragging her. "But where exactly are we going, and to what purpose?"
"Yer going to Ramirez. Now shut yer trap."
That was enough for both captains, and simultaneously they both ripped themselves from the grip of the two men and pulled out their pistols.
"I don't think we'll be goin' to see anyone, savvy?" Jack stated boldly to the both of them. The two men, who were obviously not the sharpest tools in the shed considering they had neglected to take the captains' weapons in the first place, both stood gawking unsure what to do.
"You 'eard 'im", Julianne added, "now fuck off."
Nodding vigorously, both turned and hurried away as fast as they could. Putting away their guns, Julianne turned to Jack hand outstretched. "Nice work Captain." Jack likewise extended his hand and the two shook, motioned for their friends to follow along, and continued on their way.
"So, who d'ye suppose this Ramirez anyway?" Julianne asked just before they reached the tavern.
"I dunno, but I 'ave a feeling we're goin to find out before this is all over with."
Stepping inside the crowded tavern, the six travelers were lucky to find a large table open against the far wall of the place. Immediately upon sitting down, a scantily clad blonde woman with bright red lipstick made her way to their table to take their drink and dinner order. Upper scale place that the Rusty Nail was, Elizabeth and Will happily ordered wine, while the others settled for the usual less refined drink of choice. As soon as she had gone back to the bar, Ana noticed Gibbs enter across the room and motioned for him to come and join them.
"So you are 'ere", he said taking a seat. "I noticed you encountered a bit o trouble out there on the dock."
"Yes, apparently we've been expected for some time. Whatever that means. Anyway", Jack continued brushing it off, "they've already come round for drinks but I want to do a bit o investigatin so I'll order you one whilst I'm up."
"Thank ye Cap'n."
Getting up from his seat, Jack made his way over to the bar in his usual saunter. Passing their "waitress" along the way, she carefully removed one of the mugs from her tray and handed to him. Continuing on his way, Jack found himself an open seat at the bar and made himself comfortable, casually observing his surroundings.
Back at the table, the woman set their drinks down in front of each of them, and as soon as they were served everyone lifted their cups in a toast and drank. Raising her cup to her lips slowly as she surveyed the tavern herself, Juli became aware of a faint smell in her drink as she sipped. Immediately spitting out what she had not already swallowed, she dropped the mug on the table spilling its contents everywhere, turned to the bar and screamed. "JACK!"
She was too late, Jack had already downed half of the contents of his drink, and was going for a second sip when he heard her yelling. Putting his cup down and looking at her in confusion, he was caught completely off guard when two men grabbed each of his arms and pulled him from the seat, preventing him from grabbing a weapon. At the same time though, he saw two more men grab Juli and three others surround the rest of their party to keep them from interfering. Looking next to him, he discovered that both of the men who held him were the very same ones he and Julianne had had a run it with earlier.
"Thought you'd gotten the best of us then did ye?" one of them sneered at him. "Now, let's try this again shall we. And either of you try anything this time, it'll be yer friends that suffer. Savvy?" he finished imitating Jack from earlier.
"Savvy mate, we're savvy."
"Good, then let's go." Motioning his head towards the back of the tavern the two holding Julianne began moving to where he had directed, and Jack also felt himself being pulled as well. Along the way, he took notice of the fact that a silence had fallen over the entire tavern and everyone was staring at them both.
"Just sit 'ere and behave", Julianne sternly commanded the other four at the table when the two brutes took hold of her. "If we're not back by tomorrow, get the rest of the crews and get out o 'ere", she further instructed the first mates.
"Oh, no need to get so dramatic", one of her attackers cut in, "you'll be back just fine. Now let's go", he finished ripping her from the table by her left arm.
"Ow!" she screeched. "Watch the arm fucker!"
Angry at being addressed as such, the man pulled down her coat sleeve to reveal the stitched gash from the previous day.
"Well that sure is a doosy isn't it? Best be behavin' or I'll give you another to match on the other arm."
Julianne did not respond but scowled at him.
Reaching the back wall of the place, the man on her right pulled at a small notch in the wall and a door swung open. Unable to look behind her to see if Jack was coming, she uneasily allowed herself to be led down a narrow, dimly lit hallway that ended with another door. Pushing open this door, Julianne now found herself in a large, beautifully decorated room that appeared to be an office of some sort. Coming to a stop, one of the men took both of her hands behind her back while the other removed her sword and gun from her side.
"Don't need any unnecessary opportunities arising to cause trouble", he said with a malicious, toothless grin. Again Julianne did not respond, but simply glared back at him and remembered the knife in her left boot. Now without her weapons, two chairs were pulled from along the wall, placed in the middle of the room, and she was thrown ruthlessly into one of them. The two men both took up position behind her, and looking to her left she saw Jack was sitting in the chair next to her. For what seemed like an eternity, not a sound was heard in the elaborate office. Jack looked over in her direction, but she was unable to read his thoughts. *It's only a matter of minutes now, she thought to herself as she watched his face grow redder with every second. Pretty soon he'll be a wreck.*
Looking back to the front, another hidden door in the room swung open, and a woman stepped out. The woman was gorgeous, tall, with dark tanned skin and raven black hair. It was obvious that she enjoyed the finer things in life as she wore a beautiful suit of silk, embroidered in gold that flowed about her as she walked. Walking to a table that stood against the wall behind the desk, she poured herself a glass of wine, then opened a silver flask that also sat there and added something to her drink. Taking a seat in the huge leather chair behind the desk, she took a sip of her drink and then set her goblet down and spun it around between her fingertips.
"Well, this is very interesting isn't it? Very interesting indeed." She looked up, staring each captain thoughtfully. "Let's see", she continued taking another sip, "The Renegade and the Black Pearl. So that must make you Captain Julianne Amaris, and you, hmm, you couldn't possibly be Captain Jack Sparrow."
"Depends on whose askin'", Jack spat at her. "Who the 'ell are you?" He would have continued had it not been for Julianne loudly clearing her throat for him to shut up.
"At least one of you has a brain anyway", the woman said, smiling strangely at Julianne.
"Look, since we've apparently been expected, d'ye think ye might like to tell us who you are and what you want with us", Julianne replied coolly.
"You are a saucy little thing aren't you? Nice to see that all those stories have a little truth to em, eh?"
Annoyed at not getting an answer Juli sighed and rolled her eyes. She looked over at Jack again, whose face was now red as blood and was beginning to sweat.
"You know, it appears the drink isn't agreeing with your friend very well. You on the other hand seem to be holding up nicely", the woman said addressing only Julianne again.
"It'll pass, the first 20 minutes are always the worst", Juli answered unphased.
"Or the last two weeks", the woman responded with a sly grin. Another sip from the glass. "Well, I suppose you've suffered long enough so I will tell you why you are here. My name is Rubina, you may have heard of me."
"Rubina Ramirez", Jack coughed, "you pretty much run this 'ere town."
"Aww, you're too kind. But yes, that would be me. And, as your partner has already guessed, though by now I'm sure you have to, we've added a bit to your drinks this evening. A bit of Pratt Root."
"Devil's Blood. We know what it is. You don't need to fancy it up", Julianne retorted harshly.
"Well from the sound of things, it would seem the two of you have had your run ins with it before. I am correct?"
Neither answered.
"Regardless, I'm sure you know its effect anyway. Which brings us to why you're here."
Again neither replied, but behind both of them it was apparent that all four of their guards were growing restless.
"Oh, go on you four", Rubina snapped at them, and quickly the proceeded to the small bar two by two and made themselves each a quick drink.
"You see captains", Rubina continued. "We've had quite a nice little set up here on Passions Cove for quite some time. It doesn't take a genius to figure out the obvious, we all are quite fond of the drink."
"You're addicts, is what you mean", Jack seethed.
"I've always thought addiction was a bit of a harsh word, don't you agree?" she asked her four goons while taking another drink, who each nodded. "Yes, well anyway, as I was saying, we here on Passions Cove are all quite fond of the drink. And, for the last ten years we've a sort of agreement with the captain of your very own ship Captain Sparrow, that provided us with a generous supply of what we needed."
"Fuckin Barbossa", Jack mumbled under his breath.
"Problem is", Rubina went on, ignoring his comment. "Now that you've taken over the Black Pearl, we haven't gotten a delivery in quite some time. Having experienced the drug yourselves, I'm sure I need not explain what happens when one is deprived of it. The thing is, Devil's Blood has sort of become part of our everyday lives here, without it we are a wretched people. We need it, to survive."
"What has this got to do with us", Julianne spoke up, growing tired of Rubina's melodrama.
"Well, I would have thought you have figured it out by now", she answered. "What most people don't know about Pratt Root, is that there are very few places where it can actually be found, and that one of these is Isla de Muerta. That's why it was so easy for Captain Barbossa to supply it to us. So, since you are now the captain of the Pearl, and I assume you know how to get there, I want the two of you to bring it to us."
"We don't run poison, and you're mad if you think we're going to help you fuel your addiction", Julianne answered, both disgusted and infuriated. "I'd rather die", she added vehemently.
"As will your friend if he doesn't get more as well. You see, I'm not a simple minded woman Captain. When I saw your ships pull in and the two of you get off, I hardly expected you to comply with my wishes, especially after your confrontation with my men. That is why I had your drinks laced. Now, while you were attune enough to notice and did not drink it, Captain Sparrow did not fare so lucky. Basically you're left with a catch 22 aren't you. You don't help me, your friend suffers."
"And what makes you think I care about what happens to 'im."
"I suppose it's likely that you don't, and would be happy to let him to let him tough it out, or even kill him. But like I said, I'm no fool, and based on what I've seen, I'll take my chances." Here Rubina stopped and drained the rest of the contents in her class. "So, do we have an accord."
Julianne did not answer at first. Looking over at Jack, she was relieved to see that he was beginning to get over the initial shock of the thing and was starting to look almost normal again. Turning back to Rubina, she stared at the woman bitterly. If looks could kill, she thought to herself. Drawing in a deep breath, she blinked slowly then gave her answer. "We have an accord."
"Marvelous", Rubina said cheerfully, standing. "And not to worry, it won't be a total waste for you. You'll be paid handsomely for your efforts of course. Besides, it can't be all that bad of a task can it? I mean you are pirates."
At this Julianne let out a laugh, "we might be pirates, but even some things are beneath us."
"Yes well", Rubina answered with a tight smile. "I guess you'll just have to put that past you this time. Anyway, let's see, Isla de Muerta is about 5 or so days from here so we'll be expecting you within the next 2 weeks. That's all for this evening. Boys, would you like to see our guests out?"
All four obeyed, and Jack and Julianne were promptly ripped from their chairs and pushed back down the hall from where they came. Stepping out once again into the crowded tavern, the men thrust their weapons back in their hands and slammed the door behind them. Looking around, Juli saw that all five of their companions still sat guarded at the table in the corner, though the guards were beginning to move at the command of the bartender.
"Come on", she order Jack, grabbing him by the jacket and pulling him along behind her. Approaching the table, she angrily shoved her sword and pistol back where they belonged, put Jack's back on him, and picked up her hat from her earlier seat.
"Let's go", she barked at everyone else. "We're leaving. The three of you find everyone and get back to the ship", she told Ana, Dipst, and Gibbs.
"Juli what's going.", Elizabeth began to ask, receiving harsh stares from the three pirates.
"NOW!" was all Julianne answered. Grabbing Jack by the jacket again, she stomped angrily out of the tavern dragging him, with Will and Elizabeth hurrying behind to keep up. She stomped all the way back to the dock and onto the Renegade without once stopping, dragging Jack all the way. Will and Elizabeth desperately wanted to know what went on when they were taken into the back but knew better than to ask. The entire way they both watched Jack, who seemed to be in some kind of happy daze. He did not fight Juli's pulling him, but would occasionally mumble some indiscernible phrases that were apparently quite humorous to no one but him, until Julianne eventually turned around and snapped at him to shut up. Walking up the plank of her ship, she was happy to see that most of the crew had either stayed since docking or already returned. Taking Jack over to her cabin, she opened the door and pushed him in.
"You just stay in there and don't cause any trouble", she ordered before shutting the door and locking it.
"ALRIGHT! HERE'S WHAT'S GOING TO ON!", she announced, getting the attention of everyone who all began moving to the main deck of the Renegade. Pausing until they were all present and convened, she surveyed the shore to make sure none of Rubina's cronies were lurking around. When everyone was present and accounted for, she stepped forward and began speaking, low enough that only those there could hear.
"Apparently, at some point during that wretched bastard Barbossa's little reign as captain, he managed to successfully turn this island into a haven for strung out Devil's Blood addicts." A collective gasp could be heard around the ship followed by murmuring. "I'm sure I do not need to explain what this means as most of you are already quite aware. Anyway, it seems that Barbossa frequented this place quite often and was the supplier of the drug, so with him gone they have no means of getting it. Tonight at the tavern, Jack and I were taken hostage, as it were, and basically told we were expected to pick up where Barbossa left off, and Jack was drugged for leverage. I'm telling you now, there is no way in hell that we're gettin involved in this mess. We are going to fix this ship up first thing in the morning, then sail the fuck out o' 'ere for good. Until then, I want all of you to go about things as normal, in fact for all I care act as if you don't even know what's going on. But either way, I want both these ships stocked and ready to go so we can leave as soon as possible. Everyone is to stay on ship tonight, and stay out of the tavern! Do not drink anything while you are 'ere, especially if you 'aven't already. We all savvy?"
"Aye, aye Cap'n", came their chorused response.
"Alright then, Ana, Dipst, I'm going to be indisposed for the evening. See that everything gets taken care of will ye?"
"Aye Cap'n", the both answered.
"Use Will and Elizabeth where you need them."
Both nodded. "You gonna need any 'elp", Ana asked quietly.
"No, I'll be fine, just as long as I don't have to be worryin bout what's goin on out 'ere."
"Aye, alright. Well just yell if ye need anything."
"Thanks", and Juli walked away and let herself back into her cabin, this time locking the door from the inside.
***
"I'm sorry", Will spoke up after a moment of quiet. "But what exactly is going on? I've never even heard of Devil's Blood."
"Yes, sounds terrible", Elizabeth agreed.
"It is", Dipst reinforced. "You think rum's bad, doesn't even compare to this."
"What is it?"
"It's a root", Ana interjected. "Very rare, only grows in certain places. It's poison really, horrible drug. Once you take it though you're hooked."
"Why would anyone take it?" Elizabeth asked innocently.
"Oh, it has its good points", Dipst said with a bit of a grin.
"It's a stimulant", Ana explained. "Basically takes every good feeling you 'ave and severely intensifies it. Only thing is, it's the 'ardest thing in the world to give up once you've 'ad it. Takes weeks, sometimes months."
"And it ain't pretty", Dipst added.
"No, not at all. One of the most painful experiences you'll ever go through. You've no appetite, no thirst, no desire to sleep. All you do is sit there craving more. And if you can't 'ave it, you'd just as well die."
"That's awful" Elizabeth exclaimed horrified.
"Yeah tis. Very few people who actually quit successfully. Usually have to be weaned off little by little."
"And that's what Jack's going to have to do", Will now asked.
"Aye", Dipst answered.
"Will he survive?" Elizabeth asked with serious concern.
"Oh 'e'll survive", Dipst assured her.
"How do you know?"
"He's done it before", Ana replied. "Like I said, very few people who actually quit successfully. Jack and Juli are prolly the only two I know."
"They used it?" Elizabeth asked with renewed horror.
"Aye, they did."
"Why would they ever do such a thing."
"I already told ye", Ana answered growing annoyed. "Intensifies your feelings. Both emotional and physical, if you catch my meaning."
"Oh", both Turners said in unison, shocked.
"That's so vulgar!" Elizabeth exclaimed, talking more to herself than anyone else.
"Well, I think that's enough story tellin' for now", Dipst cut in. "Come on, we've got work to do."
Back in the cabin, Julianne rubbed her temples attempting to regain her focus. She had had only a sip from her drink, almost not even enough to call it a sip at all. But even that was enough to send a pleasant tingling feeling throughout the whole of her body, and cause her thoughts to wander to all sorts of distractions.
"We aren't going through with it?" Jack interrupted her thoughts. Looking up, she found him sitting at the small table that stood along the wall that separated the bedroom from the living room.
"Of course we aren't. When we get to Isla de Muerta we're going to burn every last bit of it", she answered as though she was irritated he had even thought otherwise.
"And you're prepared to deal with me for the next two, three, four weeks?"
"You'll do it in two, same as before. Maybe less since it was only this once."
"You think so?"
"I'm not giving you a choice", she said walking over to him, taking him by the chin, and lifting his face so she could look into his eyes.
"Don't tempt me Jules."
Letting go, she threw herself into the opposite chair and sighed. "Anyway, 'ow are you feeling?" he asked her.
"Alright. Bit fuzzy but nothing that'll last."
"Well you know", he began in an amused voice, getting up from his chair. "seeing as how the next couple o weeks are going to be hell, it'd be an awful waste to let this whole situation go untapped", he finished giving her a sly look as he stepped into the bedroom.
"Ow can you even think about that at a time like this", she demanded following him in.
"Oh come on, don't tell me the thought asn't crossed yer mind", he replied throwing himself lazily onto the bed and looking at her with wide, innocent eyes.
She did not answer. *Don't be ridiculous, she chastised herself when she found herself considering his proposition. Although, if I tire 'im out then at least e'll sleep through the night. And it would be an awful waste. Besides, for what I'm about to go through, I'd say I deserve it. Yes, I definitely deserve it.*
Sitting down on the bed looking down on him, a large grin spread across her face. "Well, no 'arm in it really."
An identical smile formed on Jack's face, and rolling over to put out the candle on the bedside table, he turned back to her and pulled her down on top of him.
**************************************************************************** *****************
The rest of the day passed without much excitement on either ship, and by 9:00 just about everyone was relieved to see Passions Cove growing larger before them as they sailed towards the horizon. With the exception of a few smaller boats, the small harbor was almost empty. The people of the little island were a secluded bunch, whose only contact with the outside world was the visitors that stopped there. Passions Cove was a favorite spot among most pirates, the island was like a miniature version of Tortuga with more of its good points and fewer of its bad. The main tavern, which stood fairly close to the waterfront along with the inn, was called the Rusty Nail. The owner, Rubina Ramirez, was a prominent figure in island society. Besides owning the inn and Rusty Nail, she also owned most of the other buildings in town which she rented out, as well as over half of the "real estate". Were there a system of government in Passions Cove, she would undoubtedly run it.
Docking at Passions Cover however, was always especially difficult. Having such a small harbor, pulling one ship in successfully could take several attempts, let alone two. It wasn't very often that Jack admitted when he was less than perfect at something, but when it came to the wrath he would have to face from Juli if he did damage to the Renegade, he quickly abandoned ego. She's the one who wanted this oversized tank, so she's the one whose going to deal with it, he thought to himself. Besides, he was more concerned that no ill doing befell his own ship anyway.
"Ana", he called to his first mate, who was running around on the main deck preparing to land. "Go and get Juli would you?"
"Aye, Cap'n."
"I'm right 'ere", a voice answered before Anamaria even had the chance to move.
"See, good as new", Julianne continued stepping onto the quarter deck and twirling around, bottle of rum in hand.
"Someone's awfully pleasant after their nap", Jack observed. "Good timing anyway. 'ere you go", he added stepping back from the helm.
"Since when are you so quick to give up command", she asked stepping up next to him and taking the wheel.
"Since it requires me to dock this incredibly dopic ship in that incredibly tiny harbor. I" he added, "am going to dock my own ship."
"She's too much for you then" Julianne asked referring to her ship. "I thought there wasn't anything the amazing Captain Jack Sparrow couldn't handle."
"I can handle it. I just prefer not to 'ave you breathin' down me neck over it."
"Oh, so it's me you can't handle then", she said with a smirk, pacing over to him haughtily with a tempting look.
"Actually, its Dipst handling the Pearl I'm worried about", he criticized her first mate lightly, not taking the bait. Then, in one swift movement, he grabbed the bottle of rum out of her hand, spun around, and headed for the stairs.
"I bet it is. Go on then amateur, let a real captain show you 'ow it's done" she taunted jokingly as he walked away.
"Yeah, yeah", he called back over his shoulder. Crossing the main deck, Jack pulled himself up onto the railing by the rigging, pushed off, and swung himself across and onto the Black Pearl. Laughing to herself, Julianne grasped the wheel with both hands and looked out into the dimly lit harbor. Beside the Renegade, the Pearl slowed and pulled back, and Juli looked over to see Jack was now at the helm. On the lower levels of her ship, the crew began lowering the sails, slowing their pace to a gentle glide. Jack was right, no doubt about that, pulling a boat the size of the Renegade into Passions Cove required a certain level of skill that had taken Juli years to perfect. Turning the wheel carefully and commanding the positioning of certain sails, the captain maneuvered the Renegade into the harbor and docked as though she could have done it with her eyes closed. As the anchor splashed into the water and the plank lowered, the Pearl slid in next to the Renegade with ease and followed suit.
"Alright mates", Julianne announced stepping up to the railing that overlooked the main deck. "Don't go getting' too comfortable, we aren't stayin' long. Enjoy yerselves tonight cause we got a lot o work tomorrow." After a chorus of "Aye, aye Cap'n", Julianne left the deck satisfied and exited the ship with Ana and Elizabeth close behind her.
"So, where are we headed?" Elizabeth inquired as the trio stood on the dock waiting for their companions on the Pearl. Ana and Juli exchanged a look over her head.
"To the tavern o course", Ana answered, "where else 'ave you ever seen us go after dockin'?"
"You certainly don't want to eat in the galley again if you don't 'ave to?" Juli asked.
"No, I guess I don't."
"Now hold up there Cap'n", Ana cut in. "I always thought you prided yerself on 'avin the best galley of any pirate ship on the seas."
"Of any ship aye", Juli agreed, "but I'd still rather a good ole tavern dinner anyday."
"And don't forget a good jug of grog", Elizabeth added. As soon as the words left her mouth, both pirates turned and stared at her in disbelief.
"I'll be damned", Julianne exclaimed, "we just might make a decent pirate out o you yet."
"I don't necessarily know if I like the sound of that", Will's cheerful voice joined into the conversation, and the three women turned to see he, Jack, and Dipst approaching.
"I don't worry luv", Julianne reassured, "I'm sure its nothin a few days back 'ome won't undo."
As the six of them fell into step, with Jack and Julianne at the head of the pack, the began making their way for the tavern for some dinner. Just as they were stepping off the end of the dock, two enormous men came up to them and each took Jack and Julianne by the arm.
"We've been waiting for you", the man holding Jack grunted.
"I wasn't aware we were expected", Jack said in his typical cocky manner.
"Oh, you've been expected alright. You've been expected for some time now", the man holding Julianne now added.
"Come on, let's go", the first man spoke again, and both Jack and Juli were pulled roughly along, with their four friends trailing behind them. A step behind their aggressors, Jack and Julianne both exchanged a confused look, but found themselves unable to speak to one another.
"'xcuse me just a second luv", Julianne finally decided to speak up in a sickeningly sweet voice, pulling slightly backwards to get the attention of the man dragging her. "But where exactly are we going, and to what purpose?"
"Yer going to Ramirez. Now shut yer trap."
That was enough for both captains, and simultaneously they both ripped themselves from the grip of the two men and pulled out their pistols.
"I don't think we'll be goin' to see anyone, savvy?" Jack stated boldly to the both of them. The two men, who were obviously not the sharpest tools in the shed considering they had neglected to take the captains' weapons in the first place, both stood gawking unsure what to do.
"You 'eard 'im", Julianne added, "now fuck off."
Nodding vigorously, both turned and hurried away as fast as they could. Putting away their guns, Julianne turned to Jack hand outstretched. "Nice work Captain." Jack likewise extended his hand and the two shook, motioned for their friends to follow along, and continued on their way.
"So, who d'ye suppose this Ramirez anyway?" Julianne asked just before they reached the tavern.
"I dunno, but I 'ave a feeling we're goin to find out before this is all over with."
Stepping inside the crowded tavern, the six travelers were lucky to find a large table open against the far wall of the place. Immediately upon sitting down, a scantily clad blonde woman with bright red lipstick made her way to their table to take their drink and dinner order. Upper scale place that the Rusty Nail was, Elizabeth and Will happily ordered wine, while the others settled for the usual less refined drink of choice. As soon as she had gone back to the bar, Ana noticed Gibbs enter across the room and motioned for him to come and join them.
"So you are 'ere", he said taking a seat. "I noticed you encountered a bit o trouble out there on the dock."
"Yes, apparently we've been expected for some time. Whatever that means. Anyway", Jack continued brushing it off, "they've already come round for drinks but I want to do a bit o investigatin so I'll order you one whilst I'm up."
"Thank ye Cap'n."
Getting up from his seat, Jack made his way over to the bar in his usual saunter. Passing their "waitress" along the way, she carefully removed one of the mugs from her tray and handed to him. Continuing on his way, Jack found himself an open seat at the bar and made himself comfortable, casually observing his surroundings.
Back at the table, the woman set their drinks down in front of each of them, and as soon as they were served everyone lifted their cups in a toast and drank. Raising her cup to her lips slowly as she surveyed the tavern herself, Juli became aware of a faint smell in her drink as she sipped. Immediately spitting out what she had not already swallowed, she dropped the mug on the table spilling its contents everywhere, turned to the bar and screamed. "JACK!"
She was too late, Jack had already downed half of the contents of his drink, and was going for a second sip when he heard her yelling. Putting his cup down and looking at her in confusion, he was caught completely off guard when two men grabbed each of his arms and pulled him from the seat, preventing him from grabbing a weapon. At the same time though, he saw two more men grab Juli and three others surround the rest of their party to keep them from interfering. Looking next to him, he discovered that both of the men who held him were the very same ones he and Julianne had had a run it with earlier.
"Thought you'd gotten the best of us then did ye?" one of them sneered at him. "Now, let's try this again shall we. And either of you try anything this time, it'll be yer friends that suffer. Savvy?" he finished imitating Jack from earlier.
"Savvy mate, we're savvy."
"Good, then let's go." Motioning his head towards the back of the tavern the two holding Julianne began moving to where he had directed, and Jack also felt himself being pulled as well. Along the way, he took notice of the fact that a silence had fallen over the entire tavern and everyone was staring at them both.
"Just sit 'ere and behave", Julianne sternly commanded the other four at the table when the two brutes took hold of her. "If we're not back by tomorrow, get the rest of the crews and get out o 'ere", she further instructed the first mates.
"Oh, no need to get so dramatic", one of her attackers cut in, "you'll be back just fine. Now let's go", he finished ripping her from the table by her left arm.
"Ow!" she screeched. "Watch the arm fucker!"
Angry at being addressed as such, the man pulled down her coat sleeve to reveal the stitched gash from the previous day.
"Well that sure is a doosy isn't it? Best be behavin' or I'll give you another to match on the other arm."
Julianne did not respond but scowled at him.
Reaching the back wall of the place, the man on her right pulled at a small notch in the wall and a door swung open. Unable to look behind her to see if Jack was coming, she uneasily allowed herself to be led down a narrow, dimly lit hallway that ended with another door. Pushing open this door, Julianne now found herself in a large, beautifully decorated room that appeared to be an office of some sort. Coming to a stop, one of the men took both of her hands behind her back while the other removed her sword and gun from her side.
"Don't need any unnecessary opportunities arising to cause trouble", he said with a malicious, toothless grin. Again Julianne did not respond, but simply glared back at him and remembered the knife in her left boot. Now without her weapons, two chairs were pulled from along the wall, placed in the middle of the room, and she was thrown ruthlessly into one of them. The two men both took up position behind her, and looking to her left she saw Jack was sitting in the chair next to her. For what seemed like an eternity, not a sound was heard in the elaborate office. Jack looked over in her direction, but she was unable to read his thoughts. *It's only a matter of minutes now, she thought to herself as she watched his face grow redder with every second. Pretty soon he'll be a wreck.*
Looking back to the front, another hidden door in the room swung open, and a woman stepped out. The woman was gorgeous, tall, with dark tanned skin and raven black hair. It was obvious that she enjoyed the finer things in life as she wore a beautiful suit of silk, embroidered in gold that flowed about her as she walked. Walking to a table that stood against the wall behind the desk, she poured herself a glass of wine, then opened a silver flask that also sat there and added something to her drink. Taking a seat in the huge leather chair behind the desk, she took a sip of her drink and then set her goblet down and spun it around between her fingertips.
"Well, this is very interesting isn't it? Very interesting indeed." She looked up, staring each captain thoughtfully. "Let's see", she continued taking another sip, "The Renegade and the Black Pearl. So that must make you Captain Julianne Amaris, and you, hmm, you couldn't possibly be Captain Jack Sparrow."
"Depends on whose askin'", Jack spat at her. "Who the 'ell are you?" He would have continued had it not been for Julianne loudly clearing her throat for him to shut up.
"At least one of you has a brain anyway", the woman said, smiling strangely at Julianne.
"Look, since we've apparently been expected, d'ye think ye might like to tell us who you are and what you want with us", Julianne replied coolly.
"You are a saucy little thing aren't you? Nice to see that all those stories have a little truth to em, eh?"
Annoyed at not getting an answer Juli sighed and rolled her eyes. She looked over at Jack again, whose face was now red as blood and was beginning to sweat.
"You know, it appears the drink isn't agreeing with your friend very well. You on the other hand seem to be holding up nicely", the woman said addressing only Julianne again.
"It'll pass, the first 20 minutes are always the worst", Juli answered unphased.
"Or the last two weeks", the woman responded with a sly grin. Another sip from the glass. "Well, I suppose you've suffered long enough so I will tell you why you are here. My name is Rubina, you may have heard of me."
"Rubina Ramirez", Jack coughed, "you pretty much run this 'ere town."
"Aww, you're too kind. But yes, that would be me. And, as your partner has already guessed, though by now I'm sure you have to, we've added a bit to your drinks this evening. A bit of Pratt Root."
"Devil's Blood. We know what it is. You don't need to fancy it up", Julianne retorted harshly.
"Well from the sound of things, it would seem the two of you have had your run ins with it before. I am correct?"
Neither answered.
"Regardless, I'm sure you know its effect anyway. Which brings us to why you're here."
Again neither replied, but behind both of them it was apparent that all four of their guards were growing restless.
"Oh, go on you four", Rubina snapped at them, and quickly the proceeded to the small bar two by two and made themselves each a quick drink.
"You see captains", Rubina continued. "We've had quite a nice little set up here on Passions Cove for quite some time. It doesn't take a genius to figure out the obvious, we all are quite fond of the drink."
"You're addicts, is what you mean", Jack seethed.
"I've always thought addiction was a bit of a harsh word, don't you agree?" she asked her four goons while taking another drink, who each nodded. "Yes, well anyway, as I was saying, we here on Passions Cove are all quite fond of the drink. And, for the last ten years we've a sort of agreement with the captain of your very own ship Captain Sparrow, that provided us with a generous supply of what we needed."
"Fuckin Barbossa", Jack mumbled under his breath.
"Problem is", Rubina went on, ignoring his comment. "Now that you've taken over the Black Pearl, we haven't gotten a delivery in quite some time. Having experienced the drug yourselves, I'm sure I need not explain what happens when one is deprived of it. The thing is, Devil's Blood has sort of become part of our everyday lives here, without it we are a wretched people. We need it, to survive."
"What has this got to do with us", Julianne spoke up, growing tired of Rubina's melodrama.
"Well, I would have thought you have figured it out by now", she answered. "What most people don't know about Pratt Root, is that there are very few places where it can actually be found, and that one of these is Isla de Muerta. That's why it was so easy for Captain Barbossa to supply it to us. So, since you are now the captain of the Pearl, and I assume you know how to get there, I want the two of you to bring it to us."
"We don't run poison, and you're mad if you think we're going to help you fuel your addiction", Julianne answered, both disgusted and infuriated. "I'd rather die", she added vehemently.
"As will your friend if he doesn't get more as well. You see, I'm not a simple minded woman Captain. When I saw your ships pull in and the two of you get off, I hardly expected you to comply with my wishes, especially after your confrontation with my men. That is why I had your drinks laced. Now, while you were attune enough to notice and did not drink it, Captain Sparrow did not fare so lucky. Basically you're left with a catch 22 aren't you. You don't help me, your friend suffers."
"And what makes you think I care about what happens to 'im."
"I suppose it's likely that you don't, and would be happy to let him to let him tough it out, or even kill him. But like I said, I'm no fool, and based on what I've seen, I'll take my chances." Here Rubina stopped and drained the rest of the contents in her class. "So, do we have an accord."
Julianne did not answer at first. Looking over at Jack, she was relieved to see that he was beginning to get over the initial shock of the thing and was starting to look almost normal again. Turning back to Rubina, she stared at the woman bitterly. If looks could kill, she thought to herself. Drawing in a deep breath, she blinked slowly then gave her answer. "We have an accord."
"Marvelous", Rubina said cheerfully, standing. "And not to worry, it won't be a total waste for you. You'll be paid handsomely for your efforts of course. Besides, it can't be all that bad of a task can it? I mean you are pirates."
At this Julianne let out a laugh, "we might be pirates, but even some things are beneath us."
"Yes well", Rubina answered with a tight smile. "I guess you'll just have to put that past you this time. Anyway, let's see, Isla de Muerta is about 5 or so days from here so we'll be expecting you within the next 2 weeks. That's all for this evening. Boys, would you like to see our guests out?"
All four obeyed, and Jack and Julianne were promptly ripped from their chairs and pushed back down the hall from where they came. Stepping out once again into the crowded tavern, the men thrust their weapons back in their hands and slammed the door behind them. Looking around, Juli saw that all five of their companions still sat guarded at the table in the corner, though the guards were beginning to move at the command of the bartender.
"Come on", she order Jack, grabbing him by the jacket and pulling him along behind her. Approaching the table, she angrily shoved her sword and pistol back where they belonged, put Jack's back on him, and picked up her hat from her earlier seat.
"Let's go", she barked at everyone else. "We're leaving. The three of you find everyone and get back to the ship", she told Ana, Dipst, and Gibbs.
"Juli what's going.", Elizabeth began to ask, receiving harsh stares from the three pirates.
"NOW!" was all Julianne answered. Grabbing Jack by the jacket again, she stomped angrily out of the tavern dragging him, with Will and Elizabeth hurrying behind to keep up. She stomped all the way back to the dock and onto the Renegade without once stopping, dragging Jack all the way. Will and Elizabeth desperately wanted to know what went on when they were taken into the back but knew better than to ask. The entire way they both watched Jack, who seemed to be in some kind of happy daze. He did not fight Juli's pulling him, but would occasionally mumble some indiscernible phrases that were apparently quite humorous to no one but him, until Julianne eventually turned around and snapped at him to shut up. Walking up the plank of her ship, she was happy to see that most of the crew had either stayed since docking or already returned. Taking Jack over to her cabin, she opened the door and pushed him in.
"You just stay in there and don't cause any trouble", she ordered before shutting the door and locking it.
"ALRIGHT! HERE'S WHAT'S GOING TO ON!", she announced, getting the attention of everyone who all began moving to the main deck of the Renegade. Pausing until they were all present and convened, she surveyed the shore to make sure none of Rubina's cronies were lurking around. When everyone was present and accounted for, she stepped forward and began speaking, low enough that only those there could hear.
"Apparently, at some point during that wretched bastard Barbossa's little reign as captain, he managed to successfully turn this island into a haven for strung out Devil's Blood addicts." A collective gasp could be heard around the ship followed by murmuring. "I'm sure I do not need to explain what this means as most of you are already quite aware. Anyway, it seems that Barbossa frequented this place quite often and was the supplier of the drug, so with him gone they have no means of getting it. Tonight at the tavern, Jack and I were taken hostage, as it were, and basically told we were expected to pick up where Barbossa left off, and Jack was drugged for leverage. I'm telling you now, there is no way in hell that we're gettin involved in this mess. We are going to fix this ship up first thing in the morning, then sail the fuck out o' 'ere for good. Until then, I want all of you to go about things as normal, in fact for all I care act as if you don't even know what's going on. But either way, I want both these ships stocked and ready to go so we can leave as soon as possible. Everyone is to stay on ship tonight, and stay out of the tavern! Do not drink anything while you are 'ere, especially if you 'aven't already. We all savvy?"
"Aye, aye Cap'n", came their chorused response.
"Alright then, Ana, Dipst, I'm going to be indisposed for the evening. See that everything gets taken care of will ye?"
"Aye Cap'n", the both answered.
"Use Will and Elizabeth where you need them."
Both nodded. "You gonna need any 'elp", Ana asked quietly.
"No, I'll be fine, just as long as I don't have to be worryin bout what's goin on out 'ere."
"Aye, alright. Well just yell if ye need anything."
"Thanks", and Juli walked away and let herself back into her cabin, this time locking the door from the inside.
***
"I'm sorry", Will spoke up after a moment of quiet. "But what exactly is going on? I've never even heard of Devil's Blood."
"Yes, sounds terrible", Elizabeth agreed.
"It is", Dipst reinforced. "You think rum's bad, doesn't even compare to this."
"What is it?"
"It's a root", Ana interjected. "Very rare, only grows in certain places. It's poison really, horrible drug. Once you take it though you're hooked."
"Why would anyone take it?" Elizabeth asked innocently.
"Oh, it has its good points", Dipst said with a bit of a grin.
"It's a stimulant", Ana explained. "Basically takes every good feeling you 'ave and severely intensifies it. Only thing is, it's the 'ardest thing in the world to give up once you've 'ad it. Takes weeks, sometimes months."
"And it ain't pretty", Dipst added.
"No, not at all. One of the most painful experiences you'll ever go through. You've no appetite, no thirst, no desire to sleep. All you do is sit there craving more. And if you can't 'ave it, you'd just as well die."
"That's awful" Elizabeth exclaimed horrified.
"Yeah tis. Very few people who actually quit successfully. Usually have to be weaned off little by little."
"And that's what Jack's going to have to do", Will now asked.
"Aye", Dipst answered.
"Will he survive?" Elizabeth asked with serious concern.
"Oh 'e'll survive", Dipst assured her.
"How do you know?"
"He's done it before", Ana replied. "Like I said, very few people who actually quit successfully. Jack and Juli are prolly the only two I know."
"They used it?" Elizabeth asked with renewed horror.
"Aye, they did."
"Why would they ever do such a thing."
"I already told ye", Ana answered growing annoyed. "Intensifies your feelings. Both emotional and physical, if you catch my meaning."
"Oh", both Turners said in unison, shocked.
"That's so vulgar!" Elizabeth exclaimed, talking more to herself than anyone else.
"Well, I think that's enough story tellin' for now", Dipst cut in. "Come on, we've got work to do."
Back in the cabin, Julianne rubbed her temples attempting to regain her focus. She had had only a sip from her drink, almost not even enough to call it a sip at all. But even that was enough to send a pleasant tingling feeling throughout the whole of her body, and cause her thoughts to wander to all sorts of distractions.
"We aren't going through with it?" Jack interrupted her thoughts. Looking up, she found him sitting at the small table that stood along the wall that separated the bedroom from the living room.
"Of course we aren't. When we get to Isla de Muerta we're going to burn every last bit of it", she answered as though she was irritated he had even thought otherwise.
"And you're prepared to deal with me for the next two, three, four weeks?"
"You'll do it in two, same as before. Maybe less since it was only this once."
"You think so?"
"I'm not giving you a choice", she said walking over to him, taking him by the chin, and lifting his face so she could look into his eyes.
"Don't tempt me Jules."
Letting go, she threw herself into the opposite chair and sighed. "Anyway, 'ow are you feeling?" he asked her.
"Alright. Bit fuzzy but nothing that'll last."
"Well you know", he began in an amused voice, getting up from his chair. "seeing as how the next couple o weeks are going to be hell, it'd be an awful waste to let this whole situation go untapped", he finished giving her a sly look as he stepped into the bedroom.
"Ow can you even think about that at a time like this", she demanded following him in.
"Oh come on, don't tell me the thought asn't crossed yer mind", he replied throwing himself lazily onto the bed and looking at her with wide, innocent eyes.
She did not answer. *Don't be ridiculous, she chastised herself when she found herself considering his proposition. Although, if I tire 'im out then at least e'll sleep through the night. And it would be an awful waste. Besides, for what I'm about to go through, I'd say I deserve it. Yes, I definitely deserve it.*
Sitting down on the bed looking down on him, a large grin spread across her face. "Well, no 'arm in it really."
An identical smile formed on Jack's face, and rolling over to put out the candle on the bedside table, he turned back to her and pulled her down on top of him.