Chapter Three: As Their Lives Go On.
William was indeed not dead. He was only stunned by the very first bullet to have ever pierced his shoulder. He awoke to find himself breathing in gallons of unwanted water. He lifted his head above the slow choppy waves and spat it out. William then realized, while gasping for air and holding tightly onto the rock he had assembled, he could not remember anything that had just happened or any of his life for that matter. He couldn't even remember his name. He noticed the half of a medallion cemented into his hand and slowly released it from his grip. He put the trinket around his neck and examined his scar. Suddenly a hand was placed upon his ankle. William looked down to see two row boats full of the Governor's soldiers.
"You must be William. Come aboard, Son.it is not safe for you.we shall take you to where it is!" Murtogg insisted. Will climbed down off the rock and into the boat. His eyes were captured by the fire a top the Black Pearl, which was now being put out by Barbossa's men. He still was oblivious to what had just happened. He couldn't remember how he got a bullet into his shoulder or how he fell into the water, all he knew was his head throbbed with soreness.
The sun had already faded into the distant sky and the moon was radiant above them. Sam's russet auburn locks glistened as they flew behind her sun kissed neck. She closed her eyes as thoughts and dreams of better days than those just spent with her brother on a ship far off at sea, drifted through her imaginative mind.
"Samantha, Darling.please speak to me." Jillian lightly alleged while stroking her niece's face. No word was uttered out of her innocent lips. Sam was in complete shock of all that had just happened. In one instant her family was deteriorated, by a man she had despised from the moment she laid eyes on him. "I know you are shocked, we all are Darling, but from now on things are going to be different. We are your legal guardians now, and just as your father said.he will always be there for you! Look up at the stars, instead of one angel you have two.two wonderful guardian angels who will wink at you to say hello!" Samantha could no longer hold back her tears. She poured them out onto Jillian's shoulder and held her tight. She couldn't help but think of Jack and how he was going to suffer. Samantha couldn't bear to think of what Barbossa was going to do to him.
"What shall become of Jack?!" She finally quivered.
"I don't know, Darling.I.I don't know!" Jillian kissed Sam's forehead and let her cry herself to sleep.
William was brought safely to the Dauntless where Mr. Gibbs and Procton waited patiently for the children's return. When they saw that they only had William, their hearts sank. What had become of Samantha and the others?
"AHOY THERE MATEYS! WHAT HAVE YOU GOT?!" Gibbs shouted above them.
"WE HAVE FOUND WILLIAM BUT THE OTHERS REMAIN LOST, I BELIEVE THAT SAMANTHA AND HER AUNT AND UNCLE GOT AWAY ON THEIR OWN BOAT, BUT MR. TURNER HAS GONE MISSING, WE ASSUME IT IS AT HIS WORST!" Lieutenant Stonagal declared back to him. Mr. Gibbs sadly shook his head and looked at Procton.
"They assume the worst, that can only mean one thing. we have to stick to the code.if William doesn't remember anything that has happened.we cannot tell him about his piracy.he mustn't know!" Mr. Procton hung his head upon hearing those words from Gibbs. He did not want to follow through with the code, but he knew that he must.
"We have to stick to the code." He forlornly agreed. They threw the rope ladder to them and the men climbed aboard the ship. William had fallen ill and passed out on the way there. They carried him over to the steer and placed him on the floor. Elizabeth hurried out of her chamber hoping to find Samantha, but she was nowhere in sight. She tugged on Mr. Stonagal's coat.
"Where is Samantha? Did you not bring her back?!" She demanded to know.
"Well.Miss Swann.we were unable to find her, but we know for a fact that she has been brought to safety.there is no need to fear! Poor William here, however seems to have got quiet a bullet to the shoulder and a strike to the head, if you cannot already tell by the bruise! We must give him immediate attention." Elizabeth stared at her helpless friend. She then noticed the medallion around his neck and the scar on his hand.
"May I have a moment with him? After all he is Samantha's brother." She pleaded.
"Alright, I will get the first aid and call for Captain Norrington." Stonagal and his men went back to work and Elizabeth stepped towards Will. She got down on her hands and knees and removed the medallion from around his neck. She placed it in the pocket of her apron, and then closed his hand. She didn't want her father to see his mess.
"What do we have here?" Norrington pushed her aside and got down on his knees. "Is this William Turner?" He gazed at Miss Swann, she nodded her head. "He needs aid." He opened his hand and there he saw the scar of the half Aztec medallion. "What in the world?" Norrington motioned for Mr. Gibbs to step forward. "You, Gibbs, come forth! What is this?" He pointed out the scar, Gibbs stood still he knew exactly what it was, but wasn't sure if he should tell Captain Norrington the truth. "Mr. Gibbs, I am waiting for your answer! What does that mark mean?"
"It is the mark of some very rare Aztec gold. Only half of it I presume.It can only mean one thing." He hesitated and gazed over at Mr. Procton who nodded for him to continue. "His father was a pirate seeking gold at the Isle De Muerta. Barbossa was the man who was after him.you see.in pirates code.if one is to find their Captain dead.and they go on not rememberin' anything by getting' a strike to the head, we've found it best not to tell them about the death or their history.otherwise they go on a life long quest searching for themselves and get into a big mess.I am telling the truth here and now Norrington.this boy cannot remember what just happened. Mr. Turner was Bootstrap Bill."
"That is CAPTAIN Norrington.and who is this Bootstrap Bill?"
"Only the greatest pirate ever known to man.he was not feared.yet well known and worthy of his taste." Governor Swann stated from behind them. He stepped forward onto his platform and gazed down at the scar. "Yes indeed.I had a hunch Mr. Turner was in fact Bootstrap.a fine man.a fine pirate.but yet he would've been hanged.we cannot let his children ever know of what happened! We mustn't let William know of his fate! Get him to aid and see if he remembers anything!" They hauled William away. Elizabeth looked down at the ground in disappointment. She didn't want her father to find out. "Elizabeth, it is way past your bedtime.come on.get you to bed!" He took her hand and brought her back onto her feet, then strolled with her down to her chamber. She placed her hand into her pocket and closed her eyes.she made a vow to herself, never to let William know of his true identity.
.Ten Years Later.
Elizabeth awoke with a quick stumble out of bed. Her father had lightly tapped on the door. She was in the mood for just relaxing that day, but she was dejectedly aware that Captain Norrington was having his promotion ceremony tomorrow afternoon, and tonight was his big dinner. Elizabeth had to stroll around for a day as the Governor's daughter presenting herself to every eligible man in town, especially the newly advanced Commodore Norrington. How she dreaded it so.
"Elizabeth.Are you decent, Darling?" Governor Swann called. She quickly threw on her robe and opened the door. "Still abed at this hour, it's a wonderful morning! Darling, you must get ready for your big day, coming out and what not! Here I brought you a little gift." He handed her a semi-bulky white box held together by a blue lacy ribbon.
"What is this for?" Elizabeth solicited while lifting an eyebrow. She took the box from her father and opened it. There inside laid a silky Paris original. It was cream colored with a pattern of pink and red roses. "Oh it's lovely, but please do tell me that I do not have to wear this to the ceremony tomorrow, or to dinner for that matter!" She eyed her father and he smiled. He stepped forward into her room.
"I had hoped you would wear it for Captain.uh.Commodore Norrington.he fancies you, you know." Elizabeth rolled her eyes and took the dress from the box. "Why don't you give it a try? It won't hurt!" He motioned for their maid to fit her into the gown. She took Elizabeth by the hand and together they strolled behind the dressing screen. The maid pulled her corset as tight as it could fit to the point where she could hardly breathe.
"I thought you said.that.it wouldn't HURT!" She huffed.
"It's the latest fashion in all of France!" Governor Swann declared.
"Well.the women in FRANCE must've learned not to BREATHE!" Elizabeth hollered while taking her last rough breathes that she could.
"Oh do not be so bothered, Darling. It is a lovely dress.and I brought it all the way back from my trip for you! You should be proud to get such a gift. Now I am going downstairs to meet Mr. Brown. He has made quiet a treat for Commodore Norrington, a new sword!"
"He is a blacksmith is he not? What else could it be than a stupid sword?!" Elizabeth complained while walking out from behind the screen. She twirled for her father. "Does it fit alright?!"
"It suits you oh so fine, Darling! You look absolutely ravishing. Now you get the remaining touch ups finished, and I shall meet you downstairs for our carriage ride." Governor Swann kissed his daughter's rosy cheek and pranced down the stairs. There bellow was William Brown, the town's youngest blacksmith. He was a strapping young lad with flawless skin, a pony tail of russet locks, a beautiful pearly smile, and above all gorgeous brown eyes. "Good day, Mr. Brown. What have you brought for the Commodore?" The governor met him at the bottom of the steps.
"Ah, Governor Swann. I have worked extremely hard on this new blade." He presented him with a sheath trimmed in gold leaves and thorny roses. "That was carved from a brick of the finest Spanish gold. The roses were perfected by yours truly, I will settle for nothing but the best!"
"Yes I am sure." The governor stated while helplessly eyeing William's art work. "This is magnificent, William.I have never seen anything like it before in my life.you have a gift!" William gave a bow.
"Thank you, Sir. I worked all day and all night to get it perfected I can only hope that the Commodore enjoys it as much. If I may, Sir." He took the sheath from Governor Swann and released the blade. He held the sword any man could be honored of in his hands. It was absolutely stunning. "The blade is folded steal. That's gold filigree." He pointed out the end of the sword where the pattern of roses continued. ".laid into the handle. If I may Sir?!" He balanced the sword on the tip of two of his five right hand fingers. "Perfectly balanced, the tang is nearly the full width of the blade." He flipped the sword and bowed as he presented it back in the sheath to the governor.
"That is extremely impressive, William." A voice chimed from the top of the stairs. William looked up and gazed into the deep russet eyes of Elizabeth.
"Elizabeth." He fumbled the sword and it dropped to the ground nearly slicing the governor's foot as it fell out of its sheath. He gasped and quickly picked it up as he gently placed it back into the case. Elizabeth giggled a bit amused. "Oh your honor, I am highly embarrassed.this will never happen again." He bowed once more then laid his eyes upon Elizabeth as before.
"Ah, Elizabeth.you look absolutely astonishing!" Governor Swann opened his arms for his daughter to enter. She passed him and smiled at William.
"You have a great talent, Will.when will you ever get out more, travel the world? I am sure places like France would greatly appreciate your work."
"Just hearing that from your lips, Miss Swann is more than enough."
"William, how many times must I tell you, call me Elizabeth that is my name after all.and I have known you for well over 10 years for goodness sake!" Elizabeth sighed a bit annoyed.
"Once more as always, Miss Swann." William softly asserted. Governor Swann took his daughter's hand.
"There at least the boy has a sense of propriety. I send my compliments to your master, Mr. Brown.and you do have a fine gift, Will.truly you do. Good day." He gazed at his daughter in a scolding manner. He did not in the least enjoy seeing his daughter being enviable with a commoner. Elizabeth curtsied.
"Good day, Will." She walked off into the carriage with her father. William followed after her.
"Good day.Elizabeth."
Samantha came trailing down the hillside towards her Farm house mansion. Her sandy-blonde curls were lightly pulled back in a silver clip twirled down behind her shoulders. She lifted her dress and ran to the door to get ready for the day. Samantha had been out in the stables all morning since dawn, grooming her favorite horse, Dreamer. Aunt Jillian welcomed her inside the cozy house with open arms. She embraced her niece and kissed her upon the cheek.
"I cannot believe that you are 23! Oh, you have grown up to be a beautiful young lady! I can see why Gregory adores you so!" Samantha pulled away and headed for the stairway.
"Gregory Norrington is nothing more than a 1st class PIG.I want nothing to do with him!" She declared while stammering up the steps to her room. Her hazel eyes were full of anger. "I am going to prepare for today's big day. Elizabeth wants me to escort her around town."
"Wait a minute." Jillian followed Sam up the steps. "Escort Elizabeth? But isn't that a man's job?"
"She has not found a male suitor and neither have I.we are best friends we stick together. We are going to find a man for each other.together!" Samantha continued for her room and slammed the door shut. Aunt Jillian giggled at the thought of them parading around town. She smiled and walked into the kitchen where she was helping Carolyn prepare breakfast. Samantha could hear little Gracie crying in the nursery. Gracie Lou belonged to Carolyn, the maid of the house since Sam was just a little girl. Gracie was Carolyn's first and only child, her husband died over seas with cholera not too long ago. Now, Carolyn was left alone with only a brief memory of her last moments spent with him, and a gift he had given her before his voyage.
Sam tip-toed into the nursery and picked Gracie up out of her crib. "Oh Gracie Lou, give me a smile!" Samantha stipulated while lifting her up in the air. "Come on.stop crying for your Aunt Sam!" She brought her chubby cheeked face up to her nose and gave her an 'Eskimo kiss' by rubbing their noses soothingly together. She cradled her back and forth in her warm arms and sang a tender lullaby. Gracie's concrete eyelids could no longer hold out and she finally gave in to the yearning of slumber. She drifted off to sleep in Sam's arms. Samantha slowly placed her back into the crib and gently tucked her in. She kissed her cheek. "Sleep tight little Gracie." The little one year old had fallen into a deep siesta. Samantha lightly shut the door and headed back to her room when a knock came from the parlor. She decided she'd let Aunt Jillian answer it. Sam hid behind the corner to spy on the visitor. It was just as she suspected. In stepped Gregory Norrington, the man she despised more than anything in the world.
"I have come to call on Miss Turner. Is she here?" He proceeded inside.
"Why yes as a matter of fact we were just discussing you. I will get her to come down." With that Sam darted for her bedroom door. She promptly shut it and placed the chair from her hickory desk up against the knob so no one could enter. She grabbed her parasol and shawl, climbed out her window railing and swiftly darted across the field. She was not about to speak to that horrid figure in the doorway. Aunt Jillian finally got the door to creak open, and what she saw, she was not pleased with. She knew Samantha had run off again.
"That girl is going to wear me out someday!" She sighed. Jillian pranced down the steps in disarray to the news she had to present Lieutenant, soon to be Captain, Gregory. "I am afraid she has gone off missing again.is there anything I can do for you, Lieutenant?"
"Oh no, I shall wait here until she returns. It is important that I speak with her." He stepped further into the parlor and bowed. "My effects." He handed his hat and sheath to Jill, who took them to the linen closet and neatly put them away.
"Please come have a seat by the fire, I will get you a cup of tea." She politely insisted.
Samantha kept running. She would not look back. When she had finally reached the end of the cliff where her secret hide out behind the waterfall lay, she climbed down the ridged rocks, being careful not to scrape her knee or tear her dress. Finally, Samantha jumped down from her last step, opened her parasol so not to get wet, and entered her secret mansion. There she had hidden years of precious mementos. One that she had most recently remembered was the half medallion her father gave to her before his wretched murder.
She sat her parasol a top the tabled rock she acquired years ago, and uncovered a small cherry wood box from a crack in the cave she secreted within. Samantha delicately fondled her hand down the box's smooth surface and opened it. There gently laying upon the blue velvet surface was the trinket she treasured the most. She put it around her neck and gazed into the cracked mirror dangling from the side of the tangible wall. She twirled around and smiled, processing the memories that once were lost between her brother William, whom was deceased, or so she thought, and herself.
"William, if only you were still alive. I'd tell you everything!" She sighed and sat down upon a rock in the corner of her shelter. She looked down at the charm flaccid around her neck, a skull cut in half with a strange pattern around its gold surface. Her eyes were captured by its bullion glow. "I wonder how such a wonderful thing such as gold could be cursed." She distinctly thought aloud. Suddenly she heard a strange thud from outside the waterfall. It sounded as if someone was throwing rocks into the small river. Sam darted for the waterfall and without thinking dashed through its current getting soaked in her effort to see what was going on. She gazed up and was met with a familiar smile.
"Hello, Sam! I thought you might be here." Standing above her was William Brown.
"Mr. Brown.what are you doing here?" Sam queried. William lowered his hand down to her to help her climb back up. She accepted it and now stood in front of him, in her washed up mess.
"I knew that Lieutenant Norrington was going to visit you at any moment, and I thought to myself, what is the one place Samantha will go to hide from him? And then I remembered you always come to this place, behind the waterfall to get away from life. What is so special behind these rocks, Miss Turner?"
"Well certainly nothing of importance to you! It is my life and I'd appreciate it if you didn't snoop around, Mr. Brown!" Sam scolded finally releasing her hand from his firm grip.
"I wasn't snooping, I've never even been in there.I'm not one to snoop around, Miss Turner!" William claimed. Samantha giggled at his assurance.
"Yes you are! I remember the time, why not too long ago, William, that you tried to get into Elizabeth's chambers to see what kind of perfume she wears! And when you were caught trying to unlock the door, I had a swell time watching you come up with some sort of explanation!" She reminded him. He looked away in commemoration and laughed.
"I remember that quiet fondly! The only explanation I could think of was that I heard a scream of some sort and was trying to open the door to save Miss Swann, and then I noticed she was standing right before me.but it's amazing how gullible the Governor has been lately."
"You might want to watch what you say about him, Will.you never know where he might be! Besides, you'd like to impress Elizabeth, and the best way to do that is not to speak so truthfully about her father!" Sam teased. "Well you best catch up with Elizabeth and the Governor. No doubt they are either on their way here to pick me up or on their way to town."
"And you best be gettin' dried up! What'd you do? Take a bath with your clothes on?" William laughed. Sam hit him in the shoulder displeased with his comment.
"NO! I ran out to see what the racket was to find that it was only you!"
"Oh, so it's my fault then?!"
"Yes, it might as well be!"
"Well in that case, you should find yourself a blanket and get dried up before heading to the docks this afternoon!" William winked as he mounted his horse, Geoff the brown Andalusian stallion. "Good day, Samantha."
"Good day, Will." She waved as he rode off.
"Elizabeth, are you alright? You haven't said a word since we left the house. Are you becoming ill?" Governor Swann questioned as he gazed worriedly at his daughter.
"No, Father I am perfectly fine. It's just I cannot get my mind off some things that have happened in the past."
"If it is about William, you mustn't let him know, Darling. Mr. Gibbs and Mr. Procton even stated that it was in the best of manners.they did not want to hinder his spirit of growing up." Governor Swann went on assuring her.
"Has it ever occurred to you that maybe not having any memory of your childhood could hinder you more than knowing that your father was a pirate who was brutally murdered by his best friend?" Elizabeth glared her father in the eye.
"I agree that he was a fine pirate more so a gentleman, Dear.but all pirates must be hanged.it's the law.As well as sticking to the 'pirates' code as Mr. Gibbs demanded we do! If Mr. Turner had a choice over it all, he would've told us to do the very same! The boy is fine! I wonder, why are you thinking of this just now? It has been 10 years since this happened, and yet you just bring it up now...Do not tell me you have grown sweet on him." Before Elizabeth could answer the coachman opened the side door and peeked in.
"Sir, we have arrived at Captain Norrington's current living quarters, shall you come out to greet him, or shall you just continue on your way when he proceeds into the carriage?" He asked.
"I think it is best we be on our way. Send him in." The coachman nodded at his command.
"Yes, Sir." He closed the door and left to acquire the captain.
"Now where were we Elizabeth.Elizabeth?!" He turned to look at his
daughter but found nothing but air. Some how, when the coachman was
confronting Governor Swann, Elizabeth managed to escape out her
doorway without either of them; her father or the coachman; noticing
or even giving a second glance. "Oh dear, where have you run off to
this time?" The Governor murmured worriedly to himself.
Captain Norrington entered the carriage and looked around for
Elizabeth, then he noticed Governor Swann's concerned gaze. Her rolled
his eyes and boringly sighed.
"Don't tell me she has run off again?!" He exasperatingly huffed.
"I am afraid so, Captain Norrington, she has gone off.I think she did not wish for you to escort her." Governor Swann suggested.
"It is possible that she is scared by my masculinity.maybe we will find her on the way to the docks, hmmm?" Norrington slyly advocated.
Elizabeth darted down the dirt road lifting her dress and carrying nothing but her fan in one hand. She passed the blacksmith shop because she did not see Geoff, and she knew that if he had been tied up William would be there, but since he was not, they both were absent. She staggered along searching the pathways for him. Every time a carriage passed by she hid behind a crowd of people, she did not wish to be found by her father. If any man was to escort her that fine day, it was to be William, not the captain. She did not feel the things she did for William for him, and did not ever want to. Finally, she had reached the edge of the township and was headed for the Turner's. William had already exited that point and was well past her on his way to the blacksmith. How he had passed her, she was unaware, but she decided to give up on finding him, and instead pursue her best friend, Samantha. She ran to the front veranda and knocked on the door. This time Carolyn did the answering.
"Hello Miss Swann. What brings you about? I thought you weren't coming to call upon Samantha for awhile now."
"Well I decided to come a little earlier than normal. I thought it'd be best if we got to the docks a bit earlier this afternoon." She winked at Carolyn. Something inside her told her that Samantha had run off. She looked over from the corner of her eye and noticed Lieutenant Greg Norrington's steed. Elizabeth gazed at Carolyn once more and winked for the second time. Carolyn nodded and winked back. She leaned forward and whispered into Elizabeth's ear.
"I suspect by this moment that she should be crawling through her window by now. Go check on her out back I will see to it that Jillian and Mr. Norrington don't notice her." Elizabeth smiled and kissed Carolyn's cheek.
"You dear woman, I don't know what I'd do without you." She then darted to the backyard where she saw Samantha desperately crawling through her windowsill. She couldn't resist but pick up a stone and throw it at Sam's bottom. Samantha ended up hitting her head on the window out of shock. She quickly crawled back out and down below she saw her best friend giggling.
"What was that for?!" She asked.
"Nothing, it just seemed like fun!" Elizabeth admitted. "Come on. Let's go have a bit of our own fun today! I just forsaked Captain Norrington. I suspect he is heading for the docks, so we shan't go there for awhile. Should we go to the blacksmith to visit William?"
"No, William was just here not too long ago.let's just go for a walk. Help me down from here will you?" Samantha gradually inched back down the railing, Elizabeth took her hand to make sure she was not about to break an ankle. When she had reached the bottom, the two of them rushed off together.
Elizabeth noticed the mess that Sam was in and giggled.
"May I ask as to what you find so amusing?"
"Certainly, ask away!"
"What is SO AMUSING?!" Samantha demanded.
"You're appearance, we must get you cleaned up you look as though you jumped into a pool of water off a bridge! Come now I'll sneak us back into the mansion! The maids will think nothing of it!" They ran for Elizabeth's home, yet on the way, Captain Norrington spotted them as the carriage rode by.
"STOP THE CARRIAGE!" He hollered! In alarm, the perplexed driver 'wowed' the horses to a complete stop. Governor Swan gave Norrington a puzzled and yet nervous stare.
"Why is it that you have asked my men to stop when I gave distinct orders to continue to the docks as usual? We await Miss Turner's uncle at any moment! He has just sailed to Japan. Surely he has some gifts to share, as well as a discovery or two I imagine, without him." Captain Norrington put his hand over the governor's blabbering mouth.
"The only reason I disobeyed your honor was to catch up to your unfaithful daughter! I am going to catch up with her now!" He opened his door and darted after Samantha and Elizabeth. Sam looked behind her and noticed Captain Norrington coming for them, she nudged Elizabeth and motioned with her head to look behind as well. She did so and was revolted to see James coming for them.
Elizabeth grabbed a hold of Samantha's hand and the two darted faster down the dirt pathway. Samantha jerked away and quickly yelled at Elizabeth:
"Where are we going?!" She demanded to know.
"Take hold of my hand once more Sam.I know the perfect place to hide!" Samantha received Elizabeth's hand and she pulled her aside to the backyard. She then yanked open the cellar door embedded in the side of the mansion and took the lock that once was latched to the outer handles with them below. When they had entered the dark pit, Elizabeth clasped the bolt onto the other side of the handles so it would be invisibly locked, and stepped down the stairs as she motioned for Samantha to clear the way. "Move down to the corner of the room, there is a secret passage way inside. I have used it several times I must search for it in the dark now. Be as quiet as possible, we mustn't let Captain Norrington find our where-a- bouts." She instructed. Samantha pushed herself up against the cold brick wall and nearly held her breath. She felt Norrington's presence outside their location.
Governor Swann came jogging after his apprentice.
"What is the meaning of this Norrington?!" He stipulated. Captain Norrington turned around and rolled his eyes at the sight of his breathless master.
"Your Honor, I told you.I did this so that I may catch up to your daughter. I know she is around here somewhere. Her unforgettable fragrance and choice of perfume is still about. She MUST be here somewhere.and close by at that!" He declared.
"Well then. Shall we look in the cellar?" Governor Swann suggested.
"That would be wonderful.it appears to be unlocked." Norrington pointed out that the lock had been removed from the outside.
"Yes as it should be, I know that our maid, Susie, opened it just this morning for some wine." He paused and let out a smile. "Our finest." Governor Swann tried to release the doors but they would not budge. He pulled with all of his might, and yet they still would not open. "That's strange.as I stated they should've been open since this morning.well maybe she put the locks on the inside as she headed into the house.Come now, we mustn't waist our time any longer." He began to stroll away, but Captain Norrington, being as stubborn as a mule, just like his father, he charged into the back yard. Governor Swann spun around and nearly tripped on his way as he ran after him. "Captain Norrington, really now.The girls will be back in time, COME NOW LET US GO!" He caught up to James and nearly fainted while he gasped for air placing his hand onto his chest. Captain Norrington reared around and smirked.
"Governor Swann, maybe it is best we step inside for a bit and get you to catch your breath. I will search around for them while you do so." With that he called for Susie as he held the governor upon his feet.
Elizabeth pushed an old painting aside and uncovered a massive hole in the side of the wall. Samantha gasped. Elizabeth had never once mentioned this place to her before. She gazed over at Sam and let out an innocent smirk and shrugged. After swiping away the cob-webs Elizabeth motioned for Samantha to follow her. Sam crawled down on her hands and knees and entered the murky fissure. She could hear Elizabeth ahead of her. She suddenly came to a stop and pushed aside something in their way. Elizabeth pulled herself out from the hidden escape and held her hand out to help Samantha on her way. When they were both back upon their feet, Sam examined the room they were in. It was the Library. The entrance was hidden in the back of the vast room behind an antique chest that was never moved according to Governor Swann, in fear that it may be destroyed (as it was a family heirloom). Elizabeth pushed it back into place so the hole wouldn't show any longer. Samantha brushed herself off, but not matter how she tried to at least look somewhat tidy, her appearance was rather muddled. Elizabeth stared at her and smiled.
"We need to clean you up, come on.I'll let you borrow one of my gowns." They began to amble through the shelves towards the door when a too familiar of a voice rang out their names.
"ELIZABETH.SAMANTHA?!" Elizabeth pulled Sam down to the ground with her, and the ducked behind the last shelf before the door. Promptly after Captain Norrington pranced his way into the room. They scooted towards the exit as Norrington drew closer inside, when all of a sudden in came Governor Swann. He glanced down at his feet to noticed the girls' innocent grins.
"I believe I have found two fugitives, Captain Norrington.at my feet." They stood as James made his way back to the door. Governor Swann gasped at Samantha's appearance. He let out a slight giggle, and then covered his mouth to hide his amusement. "My.dear Miss Turner, what you get yourself into these days." Elizabeth stepped forward. "Oh, Hello, Darling.what are you two doing in the Library.with Samantha looking like.well this?" Samantha glared at her. She was displeased by everyone being so shocked towards her manifestation.
"I was just about to take her to get cleaned up. She's going to borrow one of my gowns." Captain Norrington gently placed his hand upon her shoulder and she turned in alarm not knowing who it was. "Oh.Captain.uh.Commodore Norrington." She reluctantly curtsied. "It's good to see you.I really must be going now. I hope to see you sometime soon." She took Sam's hand and they pushed their way past her father and down the hall to the stairway. Samantha darted up the steps, but Elizabeth was held back and her grip from her hand was released. Sam turned to see that Norrington had gotten a hold of Elizabeth. "Captain Norrington, if I may.I must get Samantha ready for our day.your day."
"I was just hoping that maybe you and your dear friend." He finally noticed Samantha's oddly disordered exterior. "Good Lord, Miss Turner.What happened to you?" Samantha rolled her eyes and continued up the steps. "My apologizes.I did not mean it in a rude manner." He called after her. Samantha glanced back at him and only gave a nod and a slight tasteless grin. She continued upstairs. Norrington's attention focused back upon Elizabeth, who was disgusted by his persistence. "Would you and Samantha like to escort my brother and me tomorrow around town for our promotions?" Elizabeth jerked away and lifted an eyebrow. She noticed her Father heading her way and simply shook her head.
"I do not think we shall, Captain.Good day." She evaded upstairs to her room where Samantha awaited her.
William returned home to the Black smith shop. There he descended from his steed, George. He tied his rope, attached to his muzzle, on its usual post outside the door.
"Be good George, I will be back for you later when I go out once again." William gently stroked the horse's head as he commenced into his home. He walked in and shut the door behind him, then came forward and grimaced at the sight of Uncle Brown still sleeping in the same position he had been since that morning. There he was, by the fireplace, head tilted back with drool streaming down the side of his cheek, clasping onto the glass whisky bottle that was nearly empty and snoring like a baboon. "Ah, yes.always right where I left you, Uncle. You never seize to amaze me." He stepped over to his newly created swords and one by one gently placed each into his rapier barrel where he kept all the others he had folded and constructed before. A light tape came from the door, and in entered Lt. Stonagal. William acknowledged his presence by setting aside his task and politely bowing as he neared. "Lieutenant Stonagal, I wasn't expecting you today." He held out his hand and they shook.
"Yes well, I just received an order from Lieutenant Norrington, soon to be Captain.He knows of the likes that you had created for his brother and asked me to collect one similar for himself for his ceremony." Stonagal explained. William walked over to the back left corner of the room and opened a cabinet door. There was a replicated sheath of the one he gave to James.
"Will this do?" He came back over to Lt. Stonagal and handed the protected blade to him. "It is an exact duplicate of the design I did for the Commodore's sword." Stonagal examined the sword in amazement. His eyes were captured by the gold imprints. He unsheathed the sword and held it high in the air then gently placed it back into the cover.
"Will it do? It's MAGNIFICENT! He will be extremely pleased." He shook William's hand once more, yet before leaving he peered over William's shoulder and noticed Mr. Brown. "I send my best to your Uncle." He sarcastically stated as he walked out the door. William smiled, shook his head, and then went back to work.
"Samantha darling, you'll look ever so gorgeous in blue." Elizabeth asserted while holding up a cerulean satin gown with silver designing. Samantha gave one glance at the dress, walked away and sat upon Elizabeth's immense bed then sighed. She nodded her head in agreement but did not utter a word. "What's wrong?" Elizabeth warmly solicited. "And don't you dare say 'nothing', because I know it's something." She pranced over to her bed side and sat next to her. Samantha looked away, and then pulled out the broken medallion she had latched around her neck. Elizabeth's eyes widened. Taken aback she responded in a slurred voice: "Where did you get that?" Sam gazed down at the gold in her hand.
"It was given to me by my father. The night he was murdered.He gave one to William as well."
"How do you know this?" Elizabeth scooted closer examining the cache. Samantha glared at her suspicious of her questions.
"I saw him cut the medallion in half and then he gave half to me and the other to William, just before Will was shot in the shoulder.his flew into the fire he ran and got it but before he could he was plunged in the shoulder by a bullet.Um.Liz why are you so interested in this.all of a sudden?" She pulled the necklace back into her dress and waited for an answer.
"Oh well.the Aztec gold was just very familiar." Elizabeth hesitated positioning herself in her original seat.
"How did you know it was Aztec?" Insisted Sam, knowing she hadn't even uttered a word of such.
"I know a lot about golds.and treasure in general, my father being a governor who has to travel several times a year.Let's get back to picking out your dress shall we?" She stood up with the blue gown once more and spun around. "This color will certainly brighten up your eyes and complexion."
William was just finishing up the polishing of his last sword when Uncle Brown awoke in a startle. His bottle of whisky clashed onto the wooden floor as he stumbled onto his feet.
"WHAT IN TARNATION IS GOING ON IN HERE?!" He hollered in a drunken rage while looking about the room confused. William darted from his seat and quickly yet gently placed the sword on the table beside him. He proceeded towards Uncle Brown.
"Good afternoon Uncle.I was just finishing polishing the swords as you ordered.my daily chore, Sir." William explained. Brown stuck his finger into Will's face and aggressively shook it up and down.
"I KNOW WHAT YOUR DAILY CHORES BE.DO YOU TAKE ME TO BE SOME KIND OF IDIOT?!" He stipulated in intoxicated anger.
"No.Sir.I was just explaining what I was up to Uncle Brown."
"YOU ADDRESS ME IN A PROFESSSSSSIEONAL MA.MA.MAN.MANN.IN A GOOD WAY!" Brown stuttered trying to find the right words to say.
"Yes, Sir.Uncle Brown SIR." William corrected. "Oh.The Governor asked me to pass on his respects for the sword I brought to him this morning for the Commodore.he sends along his compliments.towards the craftsman of course."
"Good Boy.I always knew MY talents would show about in you someday.I am proud." He limped back to his seat. "Now you go about your business and do what I do best!"
"What was that?" William queried.
"GO ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND DO WHAT I DO BEST!" Brown howled.
"But.Uncle Brown blacksmithing is not your best." William was cut off once again.
"ARE YOU CALLING ME A LIAR BOY?"
"Well.Uncle.you don't do any of the work around here.I am the one crafting all the swords.You sit in your chair everyday.drunk as a pirate." Brown charged out of his seat and tripped, face first upon the floor. He got up and staggered towards William who backed up into the wall. Uncle Brown grabbed a hot-brand from the fire place and swung it about. When he had it in William's face he cried:
"I DO GOOD WORK AROUND THESE PARTS BOY.ME NAME IS WELL! DON'T YOU EVER COMPARE ME WITH A PIRATE! I AIN'T NO UGLY GOLD TOOTHED IDIOT! YA HEAR ME?!" With that his eyes crossed and he fainted falling onto his back, with the hot-poker off to the side of him. William carefully took it from his hands and placed it back into the fire. He then came back and picked his Uncle up from the dusty ground and put him into his rocker.
"Yes, Uncle Brown, SIR." He began to mock. "I hear you loud and clear." He rolled his eyes and went back to polishing the last sword.
William was indeed not dead. He was only stunned by the very first bullet to have ever pierced his shoulder. He awoke to find himself breathing in gallons of unwanted water. He lifted his head above the slow choppy waves and spat it out. William then realized, while gasping for air and holding tightly onto the rock he had assembled, he could not remember anything that had just happened or any of his life for that matter. He couldn't even remember his name. He noticed the half of a medallion cemented into his hand and slowly released it from his grip. He put the trinket around his neck and examined his scar. Suddenly a hand was placed upon his ankle. William looked down to see two row boats full of the Governor's soldiers.
"You must be William. Come aboard, Son.it is not safe for you.we shall take you to where it is!" Murtogg insisted. Will climbed down off the rock and into the boat. His eyes were captured by the fire a top the Black Pearl, which was now being put out by Barbossa's men. He still was oblivious to what had just happened. He couldn't remember how he got a bullet into his shoulder or how he fell into the water, all he knew was his head throbbed with soreness.
The sun had already faded into the distant sky and the moon was radiant above them. Sam's russet auburn locks glistened as they flew behind her sun kissed neck. She closed her eyes as thoughts and dreams of better days than those just spent with her brother on a ship far off at sea, drifted through her imaginative mind.
"Samantha, Darling.please speak to me." Jillian lightly alleged while stroking her niece's face. No word was uttered out of her innocent lips. Sam was in complete shock of all that had just happened. In one instant her family was deteriorated, by a man she had despised from the moment she laid eyes on him. "I know you are shocked, we all are Darling, but from now on things are going to be different. We are your legal guardians now, and just as your father said.he will always be there for you! Look up at the stars, instead of one angel you have two.two wonderful guardian angels who will wink at you to say hello!" Samantha could no longer hold back her tears. She poured them out onto Jillian's shoulder and held her tight. She couldn't help but think of Jack and how he was going to suffer. Samantha couldn't bear to think of what Barbossa was going to do to him.
"What shall become of Jack?!" She finally quivered.
"I don't know, Darling.I.I don't know!" Jillian kissed Sam's forehead and let her cry herself to sleep.
William was brought safely to the Dauntless where Mr. Gibbs and Procton waited patiently for the children's return. When they saw that they only had William, their hearts sank. What had become of Samantha and the others?
"AHOY THERE MATEYS! WHAT HAVE YOU GOT?!" Gibbs shouted above them.
"WE HAVE FOUND WILLIAM BUT THE OTHERS REMAIN LOST, I BELIEVE THAT SAMANTHA AND HER AUNT AND UNCLE GOT AWAY ON THEIR OWN BOAT, BUT MR. TURNER HAS GONE MISSING, WE ASSUME IT IS AT HIS WORST!" Lieutenant Stonagal declared back to him. Mr. Gibbs sadly shook his head and looked at Procton.
"They assume the worst, that can only mean one thing. we have to stick to the code.if William doesn't remember anything that has happened.we cannot tell him about his piracy.he mustn't know!" Mr. Procton hung his head upon hearing those words from Gibbs. He did not want to follow through with the code, but he knew that he must.
"We have to stick to the code." He forlornly agreed. They threw the rope ladder to them and the men climbed aboard the ship. William had fallen ill and passed out on the way there. They carried him over to the steer and placed him on the floor. Elizabeth hurried out of her chamber hoping to find Samantha, but she was nowhere in sight. She tugged on Mr. Stonagal's coat.
"Where is Samantha? Did you not bring her back?!" She demanded to know.
"Well.Miss Swann.we were unable to find her, but we know for a fact that she has been brought to safety.there is no need to fear! Poor William here, however seems to have got quiet a bullet to the shoulder and a strike to the head, if you cannot already tell by the bruise! We must give him immediate attention." Elizabeth stared at her helpless friend. She then noticed the medallion around his neck and the scar on his hand.
"May I have a moment with him? After all he is Samantha's brother." She pleaded.
"Alright, I will get the first aid and call for Captain Norrington." Stonagal and his men went back to work and Elizabeth stepped towards Will. She got down on her hands and knees and removed the medallion from around his neck. She placed it in the pocket of her apron, and then closed his hand. She didn't want her father to see his mess.
"What do we have here?" Norrington pushed her aside and got down on his knees. "Is this William Turner?" He gazed at Miss Swann, she nodded her head. "He needs aid." He opened his hand and there he saw the scar of the half Aztec medallion. "What in the world?" Norrington motioned for Mr. Gibbs to step forward. "You, Gibbs, come forth! What is this?" He pointed out the scar, Gibbs stood still he knew exactly what it was, but wasn't sure if he should tell Captain Norrington the truth. "Mr. Gibbs, I am waiting for your answer! What does that mark mean?"
"It is the mark of some very rare Aztec gold. Only half of it I presume.It can only mean one thing." He hesitated and gazed over at Mr. Procton who nodded for him to continue. "His father was a pirate seeking gold at the Isle De Muerta. Barbossa was the man who was after him.you see.in pirates code.if one is to find their Captain dead.and they go on not rememberin' anything by getting' a strike to the head, we've found it best not to tell them about the death or their history.otherwise they go on a life long quest searching for themselves and get into a big mess.I am telling the truth here and now Norrington.this boy cannot remember what just happened. Mr. Turner was Bootstrap Bill."
"That is CAPTAIN Norrington.and who is this Bootstrap Bill?"
"Only the greatest pirate ever known to man.he was not feared.yet well known and worthy of his taste." Governor Swann stated from behind them. He stepped forward onto his platform and gazed down at the scar. "Yes indeed.I had a hunch Mr. Turner was in fact Bootstrap.a fine man.a fine pirate.but yet he would've been hanged.we cannot let his children ever know of what happened! We mustn't let William know of his fate! Get him to aid and see if he remembers anything!" They hauled William away. Elizabeth looked down at the ground in disappointment. She didn't want her father to find out. "Elizabeth, it is way past your bedtime.come on.get you to bed!" He took her hand and brought her back onto her feet, then strolled with her down to her chamber. She placed her hand into her pocket and closed her eyes.she made a vow to herself, never to let William know of his true identity.
.Ten Years Later.
Elizabeth awoke with a quick stumble out of bed. Her father had lightly tapped on the door. She was in the mood for just relaxing that day, but she was dejectedly aware that Captain Norrington was having his promotion ceremony tomorrow afternoon, and tonight was his big dinner. Elizabeth had to stroll around for a day as the Governor's daughter presenting herself to every eligible man in town, especially the newly advanced Commodore Norrington. How she dreaded it so.
"Elizabeth.Are you decent, Darling?" Governor Swann called. She quickly threw on her robe and opened the door. "Still abed at this hour, it's a wonderful morning! Darling, you must get ready for your big day, coming out and what not! Here I brought you a little gift." He handed her a semi-bulky white box held together by a blue lacy ribbon.
"What is this for?" Elizabeth solicited while lifting an eyebrow. She took the box from her father and opened it. There inside laid a silky Paris original. It was cream colored with a pattern of pink and red roses. "Oh it's lovely, but please do tell me that I do not have to wear this to the ceremony tomorrow, or to dinner for that matter!" She eyed her father and he smiled. He stepped forward into her room.
"I had hoped you would wear it for Captain.uh.Commodore Norrington.he fancies you, you know." Elizabeth rolled her eyes and took the dress from the box. "Why don't you give it a try? It won't hurt!" He motioned for their maid to fit her into the gown. She took Elizabeth by the hand and together they strolled behind the dressing screen. The maid pulled her corset as tight as it could fit to the point where she could hardly breathe.
"I thought you said.that.it wouldn't HURT!" She huffed.
"It's the latest fashion in all of France!" Governor Swann declared.
"Well.the women in FRANCE must've learned not to BREATHE!" Elizabeth hollered while taking her last rough breathes that she could.
"Oh do not be so bothered, Darling. It is a lovely dress.and I brought it all the way back from my trip for you! You should be proud to get such a gift. Now I am going downstairs to meet Mr. Brown. He has made quiet a treat for Commodore Norrington, a new sword!"
"He is a blacksmith is he not? What else could it be than a stupid sword?!" Elizabeth complained while walking out from behind the screen. She twirled for her father. "Does it fit alright?!"
"It suits you oh so fine, Darling! You look absolutely ravishing. Now you get the remaining touch ups finished, and I shall meet you downstairs for our carriage ride." Governor Swann kissed his daughter's rosy cheek and pranced down the stairs. There bellow was William Brown, the town's youngest blacksmith. He was a strapping young lad with flawless skin, a pony tail of russet locks, a beautiful pearly smile, and above all gorgeous brown eyes. "Good day, Mr. Brown. What have you brought for the Commodore?" The governor met him at the bottom of the steps.
"Ah, Governor Swann. I have worked extremely hard on this new blade." He presented him with a sheath trimmed in gold leaves and thorny roses. "That was carved from a brick of the finest Spanish gold. The roses were perfected by yours truly, I will settle for nothing but the best!"
"Yes I am sure." The governor stated while helplessly eyeing William's art work. "This is magnificent, William.I have never seen anything like it before in my life.you have a gift!" William gave a bow.
"Thank you, Sir. I worked all day and all night to get it perfected I can only hope that the Commodore enjoys it as much. If I may, Sir." He took the sheath from Governor Swann and released the blade. He held the sword any man could be honored of in his hands. It was absolutely stunning. "The blade is folded steal. That's gold filigree." He pointed out the end of the sword where the pattern of roses continued. ".laid into the handle. If I may Sir?!" He balanced the sword on the tip of two of his five right hand fingers. "Perfectly balanced, the tang is nearly the full width of the blade." He flipped the sword and bowed as he presented it back in the sheath to the governor.
"That is extremely impressive, William." A voice chimed from the top of the stairs. William looked up and gazed into the deep russet eyes of Elizabeth.
"Elizabeth." He fumbled the sword and it dropped to the ground nearly slicing the governor's foot as it fell out of its sheath. He gasped and quickly picked it up as he gently placed it back into the case. Elizabeth giggled a bit amused. "Oh your honor, I am highly embarrassed.this will never happen again." He bowed once more then laid his eyes upon Elizabeth as before.
"Ah, Elizabeth.you look absolutely astonishing!" Governor Swann opened his arms for his daughter to enter. She passed him and smiled at William.
"You have a great talent, Will.when will you ever get out more, travel the world? I am sure places like France would greatly appreciate your work."
"Just hearing that from your lips, Miss Swann is more than enough."
"William, how many times must I tell you, call me Elizabeth that is my name after all.and I have known you for well over 10 years for goodness sake!" Elizabeth sighed a bit annoyed.
"Once more as always, Miss Swann." William softly asserted. Governor Swann took his daughter's hand.
"There at least the boy has a sense of propriety. I send my compliments to your master, Mr. Brown.and you do have a fine gift, Will.truly you do. Good day." He gazed at his daughter in a scolding manner. He did not in the least enjoy seeing his daughter being enviable with a commoner. Elizabeth curtsied.
"Good day, Will." She walked off into the carriage with her father. William followed after her.
"Good day.Elizabeth."
Samantha came trailing down the hillside towards her Farm house mansion. Her sandy-blonde curls were lightly pulled back in a silver clip twirled down behind her shoulders. She lifted her dress and ran to the door to get ready for the day. Samantha had been out in the stables all morning since dawn, grooming her favorite horse, Dreamer. Aunt Jillian welcomed her inside the cozy house with open arms. She embraced her niece and kissed her upon the cheek.
"I cannot believe that you are 23! Oh, you have grown up to be a beautiful young lady! I can see why Gregory adores you so!" Samantha pulled away and headed for the stairway.
"Gregory Norrington is nothing more than a 1st class PIG.I want nothing to do with him!" She declared while stammering up the steps to her room. Her hazel eyes were full of anger. "I am going to prepare for today's big day. Elizabeth wants me to escort her around town."
"Wait a minute." Jillian followed Sam up the steps. "Escort Elizabeth? But isn't that a man's job?"
"She has not found a male suitor and neither have I.we are best friends we stick together. We are going to find a man for each other.together!" Samantha continued for her room and slammed the door shut. Aunt Jillian giggled at the thought of them parading around town. She smiled and walked into the kitchen where she was helping Carolyn prepare breakfast. Samantha could hear little Gracie crying in the nursery. Gracie Lou belonged to Carolyn, the maid of the house since Sam was just a little girl. Gracie was Carolyn's first and only child, her husband died over seas with cholera not too long ago. Now, Carolyn was left alone with only a brief memory of her last moments spent with him, and a gift he had given her before his voyage.
Sam tip-toed into the nursery and picked Gracie up out of her crib. "Oh Gracie Lou, give me a smile!" Samantha stipulated while lifting her up in the air. "Come on.stop crying for your Aunt Sam!" She brought her chubby cheeked face up to her nose and gave her an 'Eskimo kiss' by rubbing their noses soothingly together. She cradled her back and forth in her warm arms and sang a tender lullaby. Gracie's concrete eyelids could no longer hold out and she finally gave in to the yearning of slumber. She drifted off to sleep in Sam's arms. Samantha slowly placed her back into the crib and gently tucked her in. She kissed her cheek. "Sleep tight little Gracie." The little one year old had fallen into a deep siesta. Samantha lightly shut the door and headed back to her room when a knock came from the parlor. She decided she'd let Aunt Jillian answer it. Sam hid behind the corner to spy on the visitor. It was just as she suspected. In stepped Gregory Norrington, the man she despised more than anything in the world.
"I have come to call on Miss Turner. Is she here?" He proceeded inside.
"Why yes as a matter of fact we were just discussing you. I will get her to come down." With that Sam darted for her bedroom door. She promptly shut it and placed the chair from her hickory desk up against the knob so no one could enter. She grabbed her parasol and shawl, climbed out her window railing and swiftly darted across the field. She was not about to speak to that horrid figure in the doorway. Aunt Jillian finally got the door to creak open, and what she saw, she was not pleased with. She knew Samantha had run off again.
"That girl is going to wear me out someday!" She sighed. Jillian pranced down the steps in disarray to the news she had to present Lieutenant, soon to be Captain, Gregory. "I am afraid she has gone off missing again.is there anything I can do for you, Lieutenant?"
"Oh no, I shall wait here until she returns. It is important that I speak with her." He stepped further into the parlor and bowed. "My effects." He handed his hat and sheath to Jill, who took them to the linen closet and neatly put them away.
"Please come have a seat by the fire, I will get you a cup of tea." She politely insisted.
Samantha kept running. She would not look back. When she had finally reached the end of the cliff where her secret hide out behind the waterfall lay, she climbed down the ridged rocks, being careful not to scrape her knee or tear her dress. Finally, Samantha jumped down from her last step, opened her parasol so not to get wet, and entered her secret mansion. There she had hidden years of precious mementos. One that she had most recently remembered was the half medallion her father gave to her before his wretched murder.
She sat her parasol a top the tabled rock she acquired years ago, and uncovered a small cherry wood box from a crack in the cave she secreted within. Samantha delicately fondled her hand down the box's smooth surface and opened it. There gently laying upon the blue velvet surface was the trinket she treasured the most. She put it around her neck and gazed into the cracked mirror dangling from the side of the tangible wall. She twirled around and smiled, processing the memories that once were lost between her brother William, whom was deceased, or so she thought, and herself.
"William, if only you were still alive. I'd tell you everything!" She sighed and sat down upon a rock in the corner of her shelter. She looked down at the charm flaccid around her neck, a skull cut in half with a strange pattern around its gold surface. Her eyes were captured by its bullion glow. "I wonder how such a wonderful thing such as gold could be cursed." She distinctly thought aloud. Suddenly she heard a strange thud from outside the waterfall. It sounded as if someone was throwing rocks into the small river. Sam darted for the waterfall and without thinking dashed through its current getting soaked in her effort to see what was going on. She gazed up and was met with a familiar smile.
"Hello, Sam! I thought you might be here." Standing above her was William Brown.
"Mr. Brown.what are you doing here?" Sam queried. William lowered his hand down to her to help her climb back up. She accepted it and now stood in front of him, in her washed up mess.
"I knew that Lieutenant Norrington was going to visit you at any moment, and I thought to myself, what is the one place Samantha will go to hide from him? And then I remembered you always come to this place, behind the waterfall to get away from life. What is so special behind these rocks, Miss Turner?"
"Well certainly nothing of importance to you! It is my life and I'd appreciate it if you didn't snoop around, Mr. Brown!" Sam scolded finally releasing her hand from his firm grip.
"I wasn't snooping, I've never even been in there.I'm not one to snoop around, Miss Turner!" William claimed. Samantha giggled at his assurance.
"Yes you are! I remember the time, why not too long ago, William, that you tried to get into Elizabeth's chambers to see what kind of perfume she wears! And when you were caught trying to unlock the door, I had a swell time watching you come up with some sort of explanation!" She reminded him. He looked away in commemoration and laughed.
"I remember that quiet fondly! The only explanation I could think of was that I heard a scream of some sort and was trying to open the door to save Miss Swann, and then I noticed she was standing right before me.but it's amazing how gullible the Governor has been lately."
"You might want to watch what you say about him, Will.you never know where he might be! Besides, you'd like to impress Elizabeth, and the best way to do that is not to speak so truthfully about her father!" Sam teased. "Well you best catch up with Elizabeth and the Governor. No doubt they are either on their way here to pick me up or on their way to town."
"And you best be gettin' dried up! What'd you do? Take a bath with your clothes on?" William laughed. Sam hit him in the shoulder displeased with his comment.
"NO! I ran out to see what the racket was to find that it was only you!"
"Oh, so it's my fault then?!"
"Yes, it might as well be!"
"Well in that case, you should find yourself a blanket and get dried up before heading to the docks this afternoon!" William winked as he mounted his horse, Geoff the brown Andalusian stallion. "Good day, Samantha."
"Good day, Will." She waved as he rode off.
"Elizabeth, are you alright? You haven't said a word since we left the house. Are you becoming ill?" Governor Swann questioned as he gazed worriedly at his daughter.
"No, Father I am perfectly fine. It's just I cannot get my mind off some things that have happened in the past."
"If it is about William, you mustn't let him know, Darling. Mr. Gibbs and Mr. Procton even stated that it was in the best of manners.they did not want to hinder his spirit of growing up." Governor Swann went on assuring her.
"Has it ever occurred to you that maybe not having any memory of your childhood could hinder you more than knowing that your father was a pirate who was brutally murdered by his best friend?" Elizabeth glared her father in the eye.
"I agree that he was a fine pirate more so a gentleman, Dear.but all pirates must be hanged.it's the law.As well as sticking to the 'pirates' code as Mr. Gibbs demanded we do! If Mr. Turner had a choice over it all, he would've told us to do the very same! The boy is fine! I wonder, why are you thinking of this just now? It has been 10 years since this happened, and yet you just bring it up now...Do not tell me you have grown sweet on him." Before Elizabeth could answer the coachman opened the side door and peeked in.
"Sir, we have arrived at Captain Norrington's current living quarters, shall you come out to greet him, or shall you just continue on your way when he proceeds into the carriage?" He asked.
"I think it is best we be on our way. Send him in." The coachman nodded at his command.
"Yes, Sir." He closed the door and left to acquire the captain.
"Now where were we Elizabeth.Elizabeth?!" He turned to look at his
daughter but found nothing but air. Some how, when the coachman was
confronting Governor Swann, Elizabeth managed to escape out her
doorway without either of them; her father or the coachman; noticing
or even giving a second glance. "Oh dear, where have you run off to
this time?" The Governor murmured worriedly to himself.
Captain Norrington entered the carriage and looked around for
Elizabeth, then he noticed Governor Swann's concerned gaze. Her rolled
his eyes and boringly sighed.
"Don't tell me she has run off again?!" He exasperatingly huffed.
"I am afraid so, Captain Norrington, she has gone off.I think she did not wish for you to escort her." Governor Swann suggested.
"It is possible that she is scared by my masculinity.maybe we will find her on the way to the docks, hmmm?" Norrington slyly advocated.
Elizabeth darted down the dirt road lifting her dress and carrying nothing but her fan in one hand. She passed the blacksmith shop because she did not see Geoff, and she knew that if he had been tied up William would be there, but since he was not, they both were absent. She staggered along searching the pathways for him. Every time a carriage passed by she hid behind a crowd of people, she did not wish to be found by her father. If any man was to escort her that fine day, it was to be William, not the captain. She did not feel the things she did for William for him, and did not ever want to. Finally, she had reached the edge of the township and was headed for the Turner's. William had already exited that point and was well past her on his way to the blacksmith. How he had passed her, she was unaware, but she decided to give up on finding him, and instead pursue her best friend, Samantha. She ran to the front veranda and knocked on the door. This time Carolyn did the answering.
"Hello Miss Swann. What brings you about? I thought you weren't coming to call upon Samantha for awhile now."
"Well I decided to come a little earlier than normal. I thought it'd be best if we got to the docks a bit earlier this afternoon." She winked at Carolyn. Something inside her told her that Samantha had run off. She looked over from the corner of her eye and noticed Lieutenant Greg Norrington's steed. Elizabeth gazed at Carolyn once more and winked for the second time. Carolyn nodded and winked back. She leaned forward and whispered into Elizabeth's ear.
"I suspect by this moment that she should be crawling through her window by now. Go check on her out back I will see to it that Jillian and Mr. Norrington don't notice her." Elizabeth smiled and kissed Carolyn's cheek.
"You dear woman, I don't know what I'd do without you." She then darted to the backyard where she saw Samantha desperately crawling through her windowsill. She couldn't resist but pick up a stone and throw it at Sam's bottom. Samantha ended up hitting her head on the window out of shock. She quickly crawled back out and down below she saw her best friend giggling.
"What was that for?!" She asked.
"Nothing, it just seemed like fun!" Elizabeth admitted. "Come on. Let's go have a bit of our own fun today! I just forsaked Captain Norrington. I suspect he is heading for the docks, so we shan't go there for awhile. Should we go to the blacksmith to visit William?"
"No, William was just here not too long ago.let's just go for a walk. Help me down from here will you?" Samantha gradually inched back down the railing, Elizabeth took her hand to make sure she was not about to break an ankle. When she had reached the bottom, the two of them rushed off together.
Elizabeth noticed the mess that Sam was in and giggled.
"May I ask as to what you find so amusing?"
"Certainly, ask away!"
"What is SO AMUSING?!" Samantha demanded.
"You're appearance, we must get you cleaned up you look as though you jumped into a pool of water off a bridge! Come now I'll sneak us back into the mansion! The maids will think nothing of it!" They ran for Elizabeth's home, yet on the way, Captain Norrington spotted them as the carriage rode by.
"STOP THE CARRIAGE!" He hollered! In alarm, the perplexed driver 'wowed' the horses to a complete stop. Governor Swan gave Norrington a puzzled and yet nervous stare.
"Why is it that you have asked my men to stop when I gave distinct orders to continue to the docks as usual? We await Miss Turner's uncle at any moment! He has just sailed to Japan. Surely he has some gifts to share, as well as a discovery or two I imagine, without him." Captain Norrington put his hand over the governor's blabbering mouth.
"The only reason I disobeyed your honor was to catch up to your unfaithful daughter! I am going to catch up with her now!" He opened his door and darted after Samantha and Elizabeth. Sam looked behind her and noticed Captain Norrington coming for them, she nudged Elizabeth and motioned with her head to look behind as well. She did so and was revolted to see James coming for them.
Elizabeth grabbed a hold of Samantha's hand and the two darted faster down the dirt pathway. Samantha jerked away and quickly yelled at Elizabeth:
"Where are we going?!" She demanded to know.
"Take hold of my hand once more Sam.I know the perfect place to hide!" Samantha received Elizabeth's hand and she pulled her aside to the backyard. She then yanked open the cellar door embedded in the side of the mansion and took the lock that once was latched to the outer handles with them below. When they had entered the dark pit, Elizabeth clasped the bolt onto the other side of the handles so it would be invisibly locked, and stepped down the stairs as she motioned for Samantha to clear the way. "Move down to the corner of the room, there is a secret passage way inside. I have used it several times I must search for it in the dark now. Be as quiet as possible, we mustn't let Captain Norrington find our where-a- bouts." She instructed. Samantha pushed herself up against the cold brick wall and nearly held her breath. She felt Norrington's presence outside their location.
Governor Swann came jogging after his apprentice.
"What is the meaning of this Norrington?!" He stipulated. Captain Norrington turned around and rolled his eyes at the sight of his breathless master.
"Your Honor, I told you.I did this so that I may catch up to your daughter. I know she is around here somewhere. Her unforgettable fragrance and choice of perfume is still about. She MUST be here somewhere.and close by at that!" He declared.
"Well then. Shall we look in the cellar?" Governor Swann suggested.
"That would be wonderful.it appears to be unlocked." Norrington pointed out that the lock had been removed from the outside.
"Yes as it should be, I know that our maid, Susie, opened it just this morning for some wine." He paused and let out a smile. "Our finest." Governor Swann tried to release the doors but they would not budge. He pulled with all of his might, and yet they still would not open. "That's strange.as I stated they should've been open since this morning.well maybe she put the locks on the inside as she headed into the house.Come now, we mustn't waist our time any longer." He began to stroll away, but Captain Norrington, being as stubborn as a mule, just like his father, he charged into the back yard. Governor Swann spun around and nearly tripped on his way as he ran after him. "Captain Norrington, really now.The girls will be back in time, COME NOW LET US GO!" He caught up to James and nearly fainted while he gasped for air placing his hand onto his chest. Captain Norrington reared around and smirked.
"Governor Swann, maybe it is best we step inside for a bit and get you to catch your breath. I will search around for them while you do so." With that he called for Susie as he held the governor upon his feet.
Elizabeth pushed an old painting aside and uncovered a massive hole in the side of the wall. Samantha gasped. Elizabeth had never once mentioned this place to her before. She gazed over at Sam and let out an innocent smirk and shrugged. After swiping away the cob-webs Elizabeth motioned for Samantha to follow her. Sam crawled down on her hands and knees and entered the murky fissure. She could hear Elizabeth ahead of her. She suddenly came to a stop and pushed aside something in their way. Elizabeth pulled herself out from the hidden escape and held her hand out to help Samantha on her way. When they were both back upon their feet, Sam examined the room they were in. It was the Library. The entrance was hidden in the back of the vast room behind an antique chest that was never moved according to Governor Swann, in fear that it may be destroyed (as it was a family heirloom). Elizabeth pushed it back into place so the hole wouldn't show any longer. Samantha brushed herself off, but not matter how she tried to at least look somewhat tidy, her appearance was rather muddled. Elizabeth stared at her and smiled.
"We need to clean you up, come on.I'll let you borrow one of my gowns." They began to amble through the shelves towards the door when a too familiar of a voice rang out their names.
"ELIZABETH.SAMANTHA?!" Elizabeth pulled Sam down to the ground with her, and the ducked behind the last shelf before the door. Promptly after Captain Norrington pranced his way into the room. They scooted towards the exit as Norrington drew closer inside, when all of a sudden in came Governor Swann. He glanced down at his feet to noticed the girls' innocent grins.
"I believe I have found two fugitives, Captain Norrington.at my feet." They stood as James made his way back to the door. Governor Swann gasped at Samantha's appearance. He let out a slight giggle, and then covered his mouth to hide his amusement. "My.dear Miss Turner, what you get yourself into these days." Elizabeth stepped forward. "Oh, Hello, Darling.what are you two doing in the Library.with Samantha looking like.well this?" Samantha glared at her. She was displeased by everyone being so shocked towards her manifestation.
"I was just about to take her to get cleaned up. She's going to borrow one of my gowns." Captain Norrington gently placed his hand upon her shoulder and she turned in alarm not knowing who it was. "Oh.Captain.uh.Commodore Norrington." She reluctantly curtsied. "It's good to see you.I really must be going now. I hope to see you sometime soon." She took Sam's hand and they pushed their way past her father and down the hall to the stairway. Samantha darted up the steps, but Elizabeth was held back and her grip from her hand was released. Sam turned to see that Norrington had gotten a hold of Elizabeth. "Captain Norrington, if I may.I must get Samantha ready for our day.your day."
"I was just hoping that maybe you and your dear friend." He finally noticed Samantha's oddly disordered exterior. "Good Lord, Miss Turner.What happened to you?" Samantha rolled her eyes and continued up the steps. "My apologizes.I did not mean it in a rude manner." He called after her. Samantha glanced back at him and only gave a nod and a slight tasteless grin. She continued upstairs. Norrington's attention focused back upon Elizabeth, who was disgusted by his persistence. "Would you and Samantha like to escort my brother and me tomorrow around town for our promotions?" Elizabeth jerked away and lifted an eyebrow. She noticed her Father heading her way and simply shook her head.
"I do not think we shall, Captain.Good day." She evaded upstairs to her room where Samantha awaited her.
William returned home to the Black smith shop. There he descended from his steed, George. He tied his rope, attached to his muzzle, on its usual post outside the door.
"Be good George, I will be back for you later when I go out once again." William gently stroked the horse's head as he commenced into his home. He walked in and shut the door behind him, then came forward and grimaced at the sight of Uncle Brown still sleeping in the same position he had been since that morning. There he was, by the fireplace, head tilted back with drool streaming down the side of his cheek, clasping onto the glass whisky bottle that was nearly empty and snoring like a baboon. "Ah, yes.always right where I left you, Uncle. You never seize to amaze me." He stepped over to his newly created swords and one by one gently placed each into his rapier barrel where he kept all the others he had folded and constructed before. A light tape came from the door, and in entered Lt. Stonagal. William acknowledged his presence by setting aside his task and politely bowing as he neared. "Lieutenant Stonagal, I wasn't expecting you today." He held out his hand and they shook.
"Yes well, I just received an order from Lieutenant Norrington, soon to be Captain.He knows of the likes that you had created for his brother and asked me to collect one similar for himself for his ceremony." Stonagal explained. William walked over to the back left corner of the room and opened a cabinet door. There was a replicated sheath of the one he gave to James.
"Will this do?" He came back over to Lt. Stonagal and handed the protected blade to him. "It is an exact duplicate of the design I did for the Commodore's sword." Stonagal examined the sword in amazement. His eyes were captured by the gold imprints. He unsheathed the sword and held it high in the air then gently placed it back into the cover.
"Will it do? It's MAGNIFICENT! He will be extremely pleased." He shook William's hand once more, yet before leaving he peered over William's shoulder and noticed Mr. Brown. "I send my best to your Uncle." He sarcastically stated as he walked out the door. William smiled, shook his head, and then went back to work.
"Samantha darling, you'll look ever so gorgeous in blue." Elizabeth asserted while holding up a cerulean satin gown with silver designing. Samantha gave one glance at the dress, walked away and sat upon Elizabeth's immense bed then sighed. She nodded her head in agreement but did not utter a word. "What's wrong?" Elizabeth warmly solicited. "And don't you dare say 'nothing', because I know it's something." She pranced over to her bed side and sat next to her. Samantha looked away, and then pulled out the broken medallion she had latched around her neck. Elizabeth's eyes widened. Taken aback she responded in a slurred voice: "Where did you get that?" Sam gazed down at the gold in her hand.
"It was given to me by my father. The night he was murdered.He gave one to William as well."
"How do you know this?" Elizabeth scooted closer examining the cache. Samantha glared at her suspicious of her questions.
"I saw him cut the medallion in half and then he gave half to me and the other to William, just before Will was shot in the shoulder.his flew into the fire he ran and got it but before he could he was plunged in the shoulder by a bullet.Um.Liz why are you so interested in this.all of a sudden?" She pulled the necklace back into her dress and waited for an answer.
"Oh well.the Aztec gold was just very familiar." Elizabeth hesitated positioning herself in her original seat.
"How did you know it was Aztec?" Insisted Sam, knowing she hadn't even uttered a word of such.
"I know a lot about golds.and treasure in general, my father being a governor who has to travel several times a year.Let's get back to picking out your dress shall we?" She stood up with the blue gown once more and spun around. "This color will certainly brighten up your eyes and complexion."
William was just finishing up the polishing of his last sword when Uncle Brown awoke in a startle. His bottle of whisky clashed onto the wooden floor as he stumbled onto his feet.
"WHAT IN TARNATION IS GOING ON IN HERE?!" He hollered in a drunken rage while looking about the room confused. William darted from his seat and quickly yet gently placed the sword on the table beside him. He proceeded towards Uncle Brown.
"Good afternoon Uncle.I was just finishing polishing the swords as you ordered.my daily chore, Sir." William explained. Brown stuck his finger into Will's face and aggressively shook it up and down.
"I KNOW WHAT YOUR DAILY CHORES BE.DO YOU TAKE ME TO BE SOME KIND OF IDIOT?!" He stipulated in intoxicated anger.
"No.Sir.I was just explaining what I was up to Uncle Brown."
"YOU ADDRESS ME IN A PROFESSSSSSIEONAL MA.MA.MAN.MANN.IN A GOOD WAY!" Brown stuttered trying to find the right words to say.
"Yes, Sir.Uncle Brown SIR." William corrected. "Oh.The Governor asked me to pass on his respects for the sword I brought to him this morning for the Commodore.he sends along his compliments.towards the craftsman of course."
"Good Boy.I always knew MY talents would show about in you someday.I am proud." He limped back to his seat. "Now you go about your business and do what I do best!"
"What was that?" William queried.
"GO ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND DO WHAT I DO BEST!" Brown howled.
"But.Uncle Brown blacksmithing is not your best." William was cut off once again.
"ARE YOU CALLING ME A LIAR BOY?"
"Well.Uncle.you don't do any of the work around here.I am the one crafting all the swords.You sit in your chair everyday.drunk as a pirate." Brown charged out of his seat and tripped, face first upon the floor. He got up and staggered towards William who backed up into the wall. Uncle Brown grabbed a hot-brand from the fire place and swung it about. When he had it in William's face he cried:
"I DO GOOD WORK AROUND THESE PARTS BOY.ME NAME IS WELL! DON'T YOU EVER COMPARE ME WITH A PIRATE! I AIN'T NO UGLY GOLD TOOTHED IDIOT! YA HEAR ME?!" With that his eyes crossed and he fainted falling onto his back, with the hot-poker off to the side of him. William carefully took it from his hands and placed it back into the fire. He then came back and picked his Uncle up from the dusty ground and put him into his rocker.
"Yes, Uncle Brown, SIR." He began to mock. "I hear you loud and clear." He rolled his eyes and went back to polishing the last sword.