As Julianne had predicted, the two ships were within just a few short miles
of Santa Croix by early the following afternoon. With Dipst at the wheel,
Juli had gone below to check on just exactly how fair her men had divided
their latest plunder the day before. Sauntering happily back up onto the
deck satisfied with their work, Julianne roamed around aimlessly and
carelessly making small talk with her crew. Things couldn't have been more
perfect, beautiful weather (even for the Caribbean), a ship full of booty,
the previous day's accomplishments, and general peace among all the
sailors. Looking over the back of the ship at the crystal blue waters
behind them, Julianne was almost waiting for something to ruin their good
fortune. Coincidentally, it didn't take long for the moment to come.
"JULES", a voice cried out from across the water, barely audible over the breeze. Looking in the direction from where it sounded, Julianne saw Jack standing on the port side of the Pearl, waving his arms and yelling. Making her way over to the side of her own ship, she called back.
"What?"
"Is that normal", he asked back pointing out in front of them. Directing her gaze to where he was pointing, Julianne saw a huge column of what appeared to be smoke rising high into the air. Concern flashed across her face.
"I'll take that as a no", Jack answered his own question.
"That looks like smoke to you right", she asked turning back to him, clearly growing more worried.
"Looks like it."
Looking back to the front, Julianne lingered there for just a minute the stalked back to the center of the deck.
"ALL HANDS ON, MEN", she yelled to the crew. "Drop the sails and run out the long lines. Let's get a move on", she ordered, sending them all scrambling and taking the wheel of the ship herself. Across the way, Jack followed suit, and within minutes the two ships were barreling for Santa Croix at top speed. Not long after, the little island became visible on the horizon, and as the pirates approached Julianne's fear was confirmed. Even from as far out as they still were, it was obvious that a fire was going on the island. Santa Croix was burning.
"My island", Julianne gasped as she stared in horror at the sight that was growing larger and clearer in front of them. Her grief quickly turned to anger though when her eyes settled on the ship that was anchored just off shore of the main beach.
"I'M GONNA FUCKIN KILL THAT WORTHLESS SON-OF-A-BITCH", she screamed angrily pulling out her pistol and checking that it was loaded. "DIPST", she continued to yell for her first mate, "I want you to pull into the lagoon and let me off, then turn her around and go back and blast the living hell out of the Caligula. Savvy?"
"What happened to don't fire until fired upon?"
"THAT JACKASS IS BURNING MY FUCKIN ISLAND! I THINK THAT QUALIFIES DIPSHIT, DON'T YOU?!"
Dipst nodded.
"GOOD, THEN SHUT YER TRAP AND DO IT!"
Storming off the quarter deck, Julianne stopped in her cabin to grab anything else she needed then stomped back out. "YOU", she said to 12 of the crew who were manning the sails and the rigging. "YER WITH ME."
"What about us", Elizabeth spoke up.
Julianne turned sharply and gave her a look which Elizabeth assumed was going to be an immediate order to stay put.
"It's not gonna be any safer 'ere than there, so it's up to you."
"We're coming", Will answered almost before she could finish.
"Fine, just don't go and get yerselves killed", she retorted then turned to help untie the row boats.
"What's yer plan?" Jack yelled from the Pearl.
"Dock in the lagoon. "'Ave Gibbs and some o the guys go back out with Dipst and bring Ana and the rest with us, cept for a guard o course."
"Aye", he agreed, and turned his attention back to his crew to give the orders.
The Renegade had just barely come to a stop and the oars pulled in when the rowboats hit the water with a splash and the ropes fell. Julianne was the first one down and as soon as Will and Elizabeth settled in behind her, she grabbed the oars and paddled for shore. Jumping out and into the water, Julianne pulled the little boat onto the sandy beach and set off angrily in the direction of the smoke, pistol in one hand, sword in the other.
"You gotta plan 'ere or something", Jack asked running to catch up with her.
"Yeah, I'm gonna take this 'ere gun, and I'm gonna fire it right into his overgrown 'ead."
"A well thought out plan to be sure, but it might need a bit more, don't you think?"
"JACK!" Julianne exclaimed, stopping dead in her tracks exasperated and flinging her sword carelessly almost slicing him in a particularly sensitive spot.
"Whoa", he jumped back, "watch the goods luv."
Julianne huffed at him irritatedly, but lowered both of her weapons more calmly.
"Look, I know yer angry but I really think you need to take a minute to get yerself together. I've never known you to go into any situation without a well planned strategy, fact it's usually why you're so damned successful", he added as an afterthought to himself. "All I'm sayin is don't go doin anything stupid, savvy?"
From the look on her face, Jack readied himself for another angry outburst, but surprisingly Juli seemed to heed his advice.
"Fine. I won't do anything until I see what the situation is", she retorted, then turned back and continued towards her destination.
It was about a mile from the lagoon to the small settlement where the natives lived on the island. They were called the Yorubas, a tribe of fun loving people who were very skilled fighters. In his early days as captain of the Renegade, Mendoza had formed a strong and beneficial relationship with them. They allowed the Renegade to keep all of its loot hidden on their island, and agreed to protect it from strangers, and in exchange, the Renegade paid them handsomely with whatever their hearts desired. After taking over, Julianne continued to maintain the relationship. She absolutely loved these simple and charming people, and took care of them better than ever before. She knew most of them by name or sight, and lavished attention and gifts upon them all, especially the children. Now, seeing the terror that was being intentionally inflicted upon her tribe because of her, Julianne was both heartbroken and infuriated.
Running at top speed, it was only minutes until the pirate band reached the ridge that closed in the east and north sides of the settlement. Peering over, the site they beheld was abominable, even by pirate standards. Everywhere there was chaos. The crew of the Caligula could be seen running throughout the little village, torches in hand. Huts burned, children ran around screaming for the parents, women were being raped, and men killed. For their part, the Yorubas did the best they could to fend off their attackers. But even their honed fighting skills were no match for the pirate guns that reigned bullets down on them. From where she stood, Julianne surveyed the scene, trying to block out her emotional attachment to what was happening in order to come up with some type of game plan. The location of the village and surrounding environment made it a perfect target for an ambush. Protected by the ridge on two sides, and a huge mountainous cliff on the third, there was only one way in. This typically made it easy to defend, but also difficult to flee in a situation like the current one. Aware of all these things, Julianne split her group into three, one large and two smaller, keeping Will and Elizabeth with her.
"You two groups", she ordered the two smaller of the three. "I want you to each take a side of the ridge. The rest o us are goin down to the mouth. When you see us charge, I want you to come down in and block off the way for any of Cordei's crew to escape over the ridge. We're gonna close in on em all three of us. Understand?"
"Aye", they shouted.
"I want everyone one o em dead, cept for Cordei. He's mine", she finished with a sinister look. "Now move out."
Without hesitation, everyone obeyed. Leading the way down to their point of entrance, Julianne turned to Jack, a wild look in her eyes.
"I don't care if we 'ave to pump him full of holes, he's not gettin off this island alive."
Jack nodded. He knew she was right, but a small part of him hated situations like this. Sometimes Julianne was down right scary, and it made him wonder how she could be so ruthless at times and so loving at others. The fact made him very appreciative of their relationship or else he'd have been as good as dead by now for some of the things he'd pulled in the past.
At the bottom of the hill their group reconvened and Juli directed everyone as to which way she wanted them to go. Swords and pistols ready, Julianne squeezed Jack's hand tightly for only just a second, then they all charged forward.
Luckily for Jack, Julianne, and their comrades, they found themselves at a huge advantage in their current battle. Not only was the crew of the Caligula caught completely off guard by their attack, but most of the men were already becoming exhausted after the fight the Yorubas had given them thus far. As they became aware of the members of the Pearl and Renegade closing in around them, many of them already knew they were doomed.
Upon seeing the pirates that they knew and trusted, the Yorubas again fought back with renewed vigor. Everywhere in the hollow could be heard the clashing of metal and the firing of guns. Ignoring most of the action around her, except for to cut down anyone who got in her way, Julianne stalked throughout the settlement searching for Cordei with Jack at her side. Despite his injury, she knew he would not have stayed on the ship due to his overwhelming lust for death and bloodshed. Looking around, she peered into huts that were still standing but found nothing. Battle going on around her, she was beginning to get annoyed and frantic at the whole situation until it dawned on her.
"Come on", she yelled across to Jack, and began running toward the rocky cliff. Slowing her pace to a quiet walk, she crept silently towards a large opening in the side of the cliff, Jack following behind. Sure enough, peering into the mouth of the cave there stood Cordei, standing on top of a large pile of treasure. Lying at his feet was Mahala, the tribe's chief, who was held at sword point by another pirate whom Julianne recognized as the first mate.
"'Ave you ever seen so much loot", he said to the captain.
"Aye, tis a lot. And it's all ours", Cordei answered turning to them with an evil grin. "Wish I could be 'ere to see the look on that bitch's face when she finds out all her swags gone and her precious natives have all been destroyed."
"Wish granted", came a menacing voice from the cave entrance and Julianne and Jack stepped into view, cocking their outstretched pistols both aimed at him.
"You know, if you 'ad just died the first time you'd 'ave saved us a lot of trouble", Jack said cockily. "As it turns out, now we've got this whole mess to clean up and yer still gonna end up dead. So you 'aven't achieved much 'ave you?"
For what seemed like an eternity, Cordei just stared at the pair of them in horror. Finally, attempting to sound threatening, he stuttered some pathetic attempt at a threat.
"You even think about pulling that trigger and yer little buddy 'ere gets it", he said nodding in the direction of Mahala.
"Not a problem really", Julianne answered matter-of-factly, then moved her aim quickly and shot the first mate without a second thought. "And now for you", said turning her attention back to Cordei. "You know, you've got some nerve coming 'ere and fuckin with me stuff. After all, I saved yer life."
"The hell you did."
"Ah, but I did. Back at the Faithful Bride when you came in trying to threaten the two o us. Jack was ready to let you 'ave it and I stopped him", she answered with a grin. "Sorry about that luv, you were right", she added to Jack. "Anyway, that's all besides the point. What puzzles me is why you continue to come after us when you always end up being the one that gets screwed. Why is that Augustus?"
"It's Captain Cordei", he seethed back.
"Well, not for long anyway", she answered smartly.
"Oh come off it Juli, you can't kill me. Not right with the code to go round killin captains?'
"It's Captain Amaris", she repeated in the same voice he had used to her. "And you're right, it isn't right with the code. Unfortunately though, the code isn't actually a set of rules now is it? What do ye think Jack?"
"More like guidelines", he answered.
"Yes, guidelines, that's what I think too. Besides, I can't imagine that breakin the code is what yer worried about considerin how many violations you've got. Wouldn't you agree Captain Sparrow?"
"Aye, you despicable rat", he spat at the other man. "Give us all a bad name, you do."
"But", Juli continued. "As we are not so uncivil as you, we won't totally violate the code. We'll put it to vote, how bout that? All in favor of shooting Captain Cordei and ridding the world of his pollution here and now, say aye."
"Aye", she and Jack answered in unison.
"All against?"
No response.
"Bloody hell Augustus, at least vote for yerself", Jack said mockingly.
"Nay", Cordei muttered dejectedly.
"Well that's two to one, the ayes have it."
Cordei opened his mouth to further protest, but his grievances were drowned out by the sound of two pistols firing. At the sound of the shots, a gasp came from just outside the cave. Julianne turned around to see Will and Elizabeth staring in in shock, Elizabeth covering her mouth in disbelief. Her gaze lingering on the pair for just a second, then Juli quickly turned back around and marched over to where Cordei lay, giving him a good kick.
"Well, don't expect we'll ever be hearin from him ever again", she said satisfied.
Turning her attention next to Mahala, she motioned for Jack to come help her, and together they lifted the fragile old man and carried him out of the cave.
"Are you just going to leave them there", Will asked as they passed.
"No, I'll have someone come drag em out lata", Julianne answered then headed for the village.
***
"It doesn't have to stay 'ere", Julianne said seriously looking at Mahala.
It was three days since they had arrived at Santa Croix and battled the Caligula. In that time, the survivors of the crew had been killed and all of the deceased had been thrown upon the ship which was subsequently blown up out in the water. The Renegade had been pulled into dock for repairs, and the crews of both ships had spent their time helping to rebuild the small village. During all of this, not a word was spoken about the events that had taken place, until now.
Sitting in the chief's hut, which had been the first rebuilt, Jack, Julianne, Mahala, and his wife sat talking. Julianne was telling the chief that she was perfectly happy to move her loot for their safety, but he would have none of it.
"It stays. Was not your fault they came", he answered firmly.
Julianne sighed and looked down. She knew that if she really wanted to take it, there wasn't anything he could do about it, but his firmness and confidence in their association left her hard pressed to refuse.
"Fine. But I want you to be prepared should anything like this ever happen again. Not that I expect it will, but neither the less. Things are changing in the world Mahala. Battles are not fought or won with spears and swords anymore. If you are to be safe you need guns." She looked up to gauge his reaction. This wasn't the first time she had tried to convince him that he and his people learn to use guns.
Mahala took a minute to consider before answering. Juli took this as a good sign because he typically snapped his refusal immediately upon suggestion.
"Fine. We take guns. You leave loot here. We be safe."
Pleased with his answer, Julianne and Jack left the hut to make the necessary arrangements and help out with the building.
***
The two ships stayed at Santa Croix for a week, until most of the village was rebuilt even better than before. Throughout their stay Juli had some of her men back in the caves rearranging their loot, adding what they had taken from the Royale Majestic, and making room for the Pearl's. Jack's men then emptied the Pearl and filled the cave to the point that no one who entered had ever seen so much treasure amassed in one place.
On the morning of the last day, Julianne woke Will and Elizabeth early, and together she and Jack led them into the back depths of the cave where several natural tunnels branched off into smaller caverns.
Weaving her way carefully back, torch in hand, Juli led them to one of the caverns. In it stood several elaborately decorated chests all sealed closed. Bending down to the smallest one, she unlatched the lid and flipped it open carefully. Pulling on a small niche in the lid lining, a flap came down revealing a tiny hidden chamber. Reaching inside, she pulled out a blank envelope, stamped shut with a large BP enclosed in a sphere.
"It's all yours", she said handing the envelope to Will.
Taking it from her, Will stared down at it. "BP", he whispered, "Black Pearl", he finished quietly. Pocketing the envelope, he stepped forward timidly and opened the remaining four chests. Each was filled to the brim with gold and jewels, and both his and Elizabeth's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Told ye ye were completely obsessed with treasure", Jack laughed in the background.
"This is all mine", Will said turning back around to face Julianne.
"Aye, all yours."
Later that evening as the two ships sailed away from Santa Croix finally heading back to Port Royale, Will sat alone in his and his wife's cabin a piece of paper in hand.
My Dear William-
If you are reading this letter then it is unfortunately true that I am
no longer with you son. It is also true that by now you are aware
that I was no merchant sailor, but a pirate. I am sorry if this has
been hard news for you to bear, and for my absence in your life.
It was not an easy decision, and I have regretted it every day of
my life. I have meant to rectify this, but now that will never happen.
Though there is much I wish to tell you, it can not all be said in one
letter, and there are pressing matters at hand. I have entrusted this
to my dear friend Captain Amaris in light of recent developments
that may pose a danger to both myself and others that I care for.
All is not well on the Black Pearl. There is talk of mutiny against
our captain, a young man whom I have grown to love as almost
a second son, named Jack. Should such a thing occur, I will have
no choice but to either go along with it or most certainly meet my
death. A death which I am not ready to meet for your sake.
Therefore, I am ridding myself of all that I own, just in case the worst
should occur, and Captain Amaris had promised to see to it that you
someday gain your inheritance.
I do not know what the future may hold. Should these events take
place, they almost indefinitely spell doom for the Pearl and its crew.
I will do my best to prevent this from happening, but I am only one
man against many. I am sorry for any danger that may come upon
you as a result of my actions, I had no intention of putting you in
harm's way.
Finally, live a good and honest life son. Pirate is in your blood, but
that does not mean that you can't be a good man as well. If you ever
need anything, Julianne and Jack will take care of you, they were like
my family, now they are yours.
I love you.
-Your Father, William Turner I
The bottom of the letter became spotted and smeared with tears as Will finished reading.
"Ye alright luv?" a voice sounded as the door to the cabin opened. Julianne stepped inside.
"Ahem, yes I'm fine", Will answered trying to cover up that he'd been crying.
"No shame in cryin Will, over somethin like that."
"This is all I have left of him, now that the medallion is gone", he choked.
Sitting down on the edge of the bed next to him, the older woman put an arm around him.
"Did you read this", he finally asked looking up.
"What the letter? No, never opened the thing, haven't seen it since the day I put it in the chest actually."
"He considered you family, you and Jack."
Julianne smiled. "He was a good man Will. A good respectable man.
"I used to not think it was possible. To be a good man AND a pirate."
"It all comes down to separating business from personal matters", Julianne continued. "Sure, he pillaged and plundered and ye know, killed on occasion. But he was also kind, and generous. He had values, and beliefs. He was loyal to his friends, and he loved you."
Will nodded, head down.
"Don't dwell on it too much. He wanted you to be happy."
"Thanks", Will replied looking up at her.
"JULES", a voice cried out from across the water, barely audible over the breeze. Looking in the direction from where it sounded, Julianne saw Jack standing on the port side of the Pearl, waving his arms and yelling. Making her way over to the side of her own ship, she called back.
"What?"
"Is that normal", he asked back pointing out in front of them. Directing her gaze to where he was pointing, Julianne saw a huge column of what appeared to be smoke rising high into the air. Concern flashed across her face.
"I'll take that as a no", Jack answered his own question.
"That looks like smoke to you right", she asked turning back to him, clearly growing more worried.
"Looks like it."
Looking back to the front, Julianne lingered there for just a minute the stalked back to the center of the deck.
"ALL HANDS ON, MEN", she yelled to the crew. "Drop the sails and run out the long lines. Let's get a move on", she ordered, sending them all scrambling and taking the wheel of the ship herself. Across the way, Jack followed suit, and within minutes the two ships were barreling for Santa Croix at top speed. Not long after, the little island became visible on the horizon, and as the pirates approached Julianne's fear was confirmed. Even from as far out as they still were, it was obvious that a fire was going on the island. Santa Croix was burning.
"My island", Julianne gasped as she stared in horror at the sight that was growing larger and clearer in front of them. Her grief quickly turned to anger though when her eyes settled on the ship that was anchored just off shore of the main beach.
"I'M GONNA FUCKIN KILL THAT WORTHLESS SON-OF-A-BITCH", she screamed angrily pulling out her pistol and checking that it was loaded. "DIPST", she continued to yell for her first mate, "I want you to pull into the lagoon and let me off, then turn her around and go back and blast the living hell out of the Caligula. Savvy?"
"What happened to don't fire until fired upon?"
"THAT JACKASS IS BURNING MY FUCKIN ISLAND! I THINK THAT QUALIFIES DIPSHIT, DON'T YOU?!"
Dipst nodded.
"GOOD, THEN SHUT YER TRAP AND DO IT!"
Storming off the quarter deck, Julianne stopped in her cabin to grab anything else she needed then stomped back out. "YOU", she said to 12 of the crew who were manning the sails and the rigging. "YER WITH ME."
"What about us", Elizabeth spoke up.
Julianne turned sharply and gave her a look which Elizabeth assumed was going to be an immediate order to stay put.
"It's not gonna be any safer 'ere than there, so it's up to you."
"We're coming", Will answered almost before she could finish.
"Fine, just don't go and get yerselves killed", she retorted then turned to help untie the row boats.
"What's yer plan?" Jack yelled from the Pearl.
"Dock in the lagoon. "'Ave Gibbs and some o the guys go back out with Dipst and bring Ana and the rest with us, cept for a guard o course."
"Aye", he agreed, and turned his attention back to his crew to give the orders.
The Renegade had just barely come to a stop and the oars pulled in when the rowboats hit the water with a splash and the ropes fell. Julianne was the first one down and as soon as Will and Elizabeth settled in behind her, she grabbed the oars and paddled for shore. Jumping out and into the water, Julianne pulled the little boat onto the sandy beach and set off angrily in the direction of the smoke, pistol in one hand, sword in the other.
"You gotta plan 'ere or something", Jack asked running to catch up with her.
"Yeah, I'm gonna take this 'ere gun, and I'm gonna fire it right into his overgrown 'ead."
"A well thought out plan to be sure, but it might need a bit more, don't you think?"
"JACK!" Julianne exclaimed, stopping dead in her tracks exasperated and flinging her sword carelessly almost slicing him in a particularly sensitive spot.
"Whoa", he jumped back, "watch the goods luv."
Julianne huffed at him irritatedly, but lowered both of her weapons more calmly.
"Look, I know yer angry but I really think you need to take a minute to get yerself together. I've never known you to go into any situation without a well planned strategy, fact it's usually why you're so damned successful", he added as an afterthought to himself. "All I'm sayin is don't go doin anything stupid, savvy?"
From the look on her face, Jack readied himself for another angry outburst, but surprisingly Juli seemed to heed his advice.
"Fine. I won't do anything until I see what the situation is", she retorted, then turned back and continued towards her destination.
It was about a mile from the lagoon to the small settlement where the natives lived on the island. They were called the Yorubas, a tribe of fun loving people who were very skilled fighters. In his early days as captain of the Renegade, Mendoza had formed a strong and beneficial relationship with them. They allowed the Renegade to keep all of its loot hidden on their island, and agreed to protect it from strangers, and in exchange, the Renegade paid them handsomely with whatever their hearts desired. After taking over, Julianne continued to maintain the relationship. She absolutely loved these simple and charming people, and took care of them better than ever before. She knew most of them by name or sight, and lavished attention and gifts upon them all, especially the children. Now, seeing the terror that was being intentionally inflicted upon her tribe because of her, Julianne was both heartbroken and infuriated.
Running at top speed, it was only minutes until the pirate band reached the ridge that closed in the east and north sides of the settlement. Peering over, the site they beheld was abominable, even by pirate standards. Everywhere there was chaos. The crew of the Caligula could be seen running throughout the little village, torches in hand. Huts burned, children ran around screaming for the parents, women were being raped, and men killed. For their part, the Yorubas did the best they could to fend off their attackers. But even their honed fighting skills were no match for the pirate guns that reigned bullets down on them. From where she stood, Julianne surveyed the scene, trying to block out her emotional attachment to what was happening in order to come up with some type of game plan. The location of the village and surrounding environment made it a perfect target for an ambush. Protected by the ridge on two sides, and a huge mountainous cliff on the third, there was only one way in. This typically made it easy to defend, but also difficult to flee in a situation like the current one. Aware of all these things, Julianne split her group into three, one large and two smaller, keeping Will and Elizabeth with her.
"You two groups", she ordered the two smaller of the three. "I want you to each take a side of the ridge. The rest o us are goin down to the mouth. When you see us charge, I want you to come down in and block off the way for any of Cordei's crew to escape over the ridge. We're gonna close in on em all three of us. Understand?"
"Aye", they shouted.
"I want everyone one o em dead, cept for Cordei. He's mine", she finished with a sinister look. "Now move out."
Without hesitation, everyone obeyed. Leading the way down to their point of entrance, Julianne turned to Jack, a wild look in her eyes.
"I don't care if we 'ave to pump him full of holes, he's not gettin off this island alive."
Jack nodded. He knew she was right, but a small part of him hated situations like this. Sometimes Julianne was down right scary, and it made him wonder how she could be so ruthless at times and so loving at others. The fact made him very appreciative of their relationship or else he'd have been as good as dead by now for some of the things he'd pulled in the past.
At the bottom of the hill their group reconvened and Juli directed everyone as to which way she wanted them to go. Swords and pistols ready, Julianne squeezed Jack's hand tightly for only just a second, then they all charged forward.
Luckily for Jack, Julianne, and their comrades, they found themselves at a huge advantage in their current battle. Not only was the crew of the Caligula caught completely off guard by their attack, but most of the men were already becoming exhausted after the fight the Yorubas had given them thus far. As they became aware of the members of the Pearl and Renegade closing in around them, many of them already knew they were doomed.
Upon seeing the pirates that they knew and trusted, the Yorubas again fought back with renewed vigor. Everywhere in the hollow could be heard the clashing of metal and the firing of guns. Ignoring most of the action around her, except for to cut down anyone who got in her way, Julianne stalked throughout the settlement searching for Cordei with Jack at her side. Despite his injury, she knew he would not have stayed on the ship due to his overwhelming lust for death and bloodshed. Looking around, she peered into huts that were still standing but found nothing. Battle going on around her, she was beginning to get annoyed and frantic at the whole situation until it dawned on her.
"Come on", she yelled across to Jack, and began running toward the rocky cliff. Slowing her pace to a quiet walk, she crept silently towards a large opening in the side of the cliff, Jack following behind. Sure enough, peering into the mouth of the cave there stood Cordei, standing on top of a large pile of treasure. Lying at his feet was Mahala, the tribe's chief, who was held at sword point by another pirate whom Julianne recognized as the first mate.
"'Ave you ever seen so much loot", he said to the captain.
"Aye, tis a lot. And it's all ours", Cordei answered turning to them with an evil grin. "Wish I could be 'ere to see the look on that bitch's face when she finds out all her swags gone and her precious natives have all been destroyed."
"Wish granted", came a menacing voice from the cave entrance and Julianne and Jack stepped into view, cocking their outstretched pistols both aimed at him.
"You know, if you 'ad just died the first time you'd 'ave saved us a lot of trouble", Jack said cockily. "As it turns out, now we've got this whole mess to clean up and yer still gonna end up dead. So you 'aven't achieved much 'ave you?"
For what seemed like an eternity, Cordei just stared at the pair of them in horror. Finally, attempting to sound threatening, he stuttered some pathetic attempt at a threat.
"You even think about pulling that trigger and yer little buddy 'ere gets it", he said nodding in the direction of Mahala.
"Not a problem really", Julianne answered matter-of-factly, then moved her aim quickly and shot the first mate without a second thought. "And now for you", said turning her attention back to Cordei. "You know, you've got some nerve coming 'ere and fuckin with me stuff. After all, I saved yer life."
"The hell you did."
"Ah, but I did. Back at the Faithful Bride when you came in trying to threaten the two o us. Jack was ready to let you 'ave it and I stopped him", she answered with a grin. "Sorry about that luv, you were right", she added to Jack. "Anyway, that's all besides the point. What puzzles me is why you continue to come after us when you always end up being the one that gets screwed. Why is that Augustus?"
"It's Captain Cordei", he seethed back.
"Well, not for long anyway", she answered smartly.
"Oh come off it Juli, you can't kill me. Not right with the code to go round killin captains?'
"It's Captain Amaris", she repeated in the same voice he had used to her. "And you're right, it isn't right with the code. Unfortunately though, the code isn't actually a set of rules now is it? What do ye think Jack?"
"More like guidelines", he answered.
"Yes, guidelines, that's what I think too. Besides, I can't imagine that breakin the code is what yer worried about considerin how many violations you've got. Wouldn't you agree Captain Sparrow?"
"Aye, you despicable rat", he spat at the other man. "Give us all a bad name, you do."
"But", Juli continued. "As we are not so uncivil as you, we won't totally violate the code. We'll put it to vote, how bout that? All in favor of shooting Captain Cordei and ridding the world of his pollution here and now, say aye."
"Aye", she and Jack answered in unison.
"All against?"
No response.
"Bloody hell Augustus, at least vote for yerself", Jack said mockingly.
"Nay", Cordei muttered dejectedly.
"Well that's two to one, the ayes have it."
Cordei opened his mouth to further protest, but his grievances were drowned out by the sound of two pistols firing. At the sound of the shots, a gasp came from just outside the cave. Julianne turned around to see Will and Elizabeth staring in in shock, Elizabeth covering her mouth in disbelief. Her gaze lingering on the pair for just a second, then Juli quickly turned back around and marched over to where Cordei lay, giving him a good kick.
"Well, don't expect we'll ever be hearin from him ever again", she said satisfied.
Turning her attention next to Mahala, she motioned for Jack to come help her, and together they lifted the fragile old man and carried him out of the cave.
"Are you just going to leave them there", Will asked as they passed.
"No, I'll have someone come drag em out lata", Julianne answered then headed for the village.
***
"It doesn't have to stay 'ere", Julianne said seriously looking at Mahala.
It was three days since they had arrived at Santa Croix and battled the Caligula. In that time, the survivors of the crew had been killed and all of the deceased had been thrown upon the ship which was subsequently blown up out in the water. The Renegade had been pulled into dock for repairs, and the crews of both ships had spent their time helping to rebuild the small village. During all of this, not a word was spoken about the events that had taken place, until now.
Sitting in the chief's hut, which had been the first rebuilt, Jack, Julianne, Mahala, and his wife sat talking. Julianne was telling the chief that she was perfectly happy to move her loot for their safety, but he would have none of it.
"It stays. Was not your fault they came", he answered firmly.
Julianne sighed and looked down. She knew that if she really wanted to take it, there wasn't anything he could do about it, but his firmness and confidence in their association left her hard pressed to refuse.
"Fine. But I want you to be prepared should anything like this ever happen again. Not that I expect it will, but neither the less. Things are changing in the world Mahala. Battles are not fought or won with spears and swords anymore. If you are to be safe you need guns." She looked up to gauge his reaction. This wasn't the first time she had tried to convince him that he and his people learn to use guns.
Mahala took a minute to consider before answering. Juli took this as a good sign because he typically snapped his refusal immediately upon suggestion.
"Fine. We take guns. You leave loot here. We be safe."
Pleased with his answer, Julianne and Jack left the hut to make the necessary arrangements and help out with the building.
***
The two ships stayed at Santa Croix for a week, until most of the village was rebuilt even better than before. Throughout their stay Juli had some of her men back in the caves rearranging their loot, adding what they had taken from the Royale Majestic, and making room for the Pearl's. Jack's men then emptied the Pearl and filled the cave to the point that no one who entered had ever seen so much treasure amassed in one place.
On the morning of the last day, Julianne woke Will and Elizabeth early, and together she and Jack led them into the back depths of the cave where several natural tunnels branched off into smaller caverns.
Weaving her way carefully back, torch in hand, Juli led them to one of the caverns. In it stood several elaborately decorated chests all sealed closed. Bending down to the smallest one, she unlatched the lid and flipped it open carefully. Pulling on a small niche in the lid lining, a flap came down revealing a tiny hidden chamber. Reaching inside, she pulled out a blank envelope, stamped shut with a large BP enclosed in a sphere.
"It's all yours", she said handing the envelope to Will.
Taking it from her, Will stared down at it. "BP", he whispered, "Black Pearl", he finished quietly. Pocketing the envelope, he stepped forward timidly and opened the remaining four chests. Each was filled to the brim with gold and jewels, and both his and Elizabeth's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Told ye ye were completely obsessed with treasure", Jack laughed in the background.
"This is all mine", Will said turning back around to face Julianne.
"Aye, all yours."
Later that evening as the two ships sailed away from Santa Croix finally heading back to Port Royale, Will sat alone in his and his wife's cabin a piece of paper in hand.
My Dear William-
If you are reading this letter then it is unfortunately true that I am
no longer with you son. It is also true that by now you are aware
that I was no merchant sailor, but a pirate. I am sorry if this has
been hard news for you to bear, and for my absence in your life.
It was not an easy decision, and I have regretted it every day of
my life. I have meant to rectify this, but now that will never happen.
Though there is much I wish to tell you, it can not all be said in one
letter, and there are pressing matters at hand. I have entrusted this
to my dear friend Captain Amaris in light of recent developments
that may pose a danger to both myself and others that I care for.
All is not well on the Black Pearl. There is talk of mutiny against
our captain, a young man whom I have grown to love as almost
a second son, named Jack. Should such a thing occur, I will have
no choice but to either go along with it or most certainly meet my
death. A death which I am not ready to meet for your sake.
Therefore, I am ridding myself of all that I own, just in case the worst
should occur, and Captain Amaris had promised to see to it that you
someday gain your inheritance.
I do not know what the future may hold. Should these events take
place, they almost indefinitely spell doom for the Pearl and its crew.
I will do my best to prevent this from happening, but I am only one
man against many. I am sorry for any danger that may come upon
you as a result of my actions, I had no intention of putting you in
harm's way.
Finally, live a good and honest life son. Pirate is in your blood, but
that does not mean that you can't be a good man as well. If you ever
need anything, Julianne and Jack will take care of you, they were like
my family, now they are yours.
I love you.
-Your Father, William Turner I
The bottom of the letter became spotted and smeared with tears as Will finished reading.
"Ye alright luv?" a voice sounded as the door to the cabin opened. Julianne stepped inside.
"Ahem, yes I'm fine", Will answered trying to cover up that he'd been crying.
"No shame in cryin Will, over somethin like that."
"This is all I have left of him, now that the medallion is gone", he choked.
Sitting down on the edge of the bed next to him, the older woman put an arm around him.
"Did you read this", he finally asked looking up.
"What the letter? No, never opened the thing, haven't seen it since the day I put it in the chest actually."
"He considered you family, you and Jack."
Julianne smiled. "He was a good man Will. A good respectable man.
"I used to not think it was possible. To be a good man AND a pirate."
"It all comes down to separating business from personal matters", Julianne continued. "Sure, he pillaged and plundered and ye know, killed on occasion. But he was also kind, and generous. He had values, and beliefs. He was loyal to his friends, and he loved you."
Will nodded, head down.
"Don't dwell on it too much. He wanted you to be happy."
"Thanks", Will replied looking up at her.