Chapter 3
Disclaimer: I don't own was is not mine
A/N: Holy poop! Sorry for the wait. School, projects, exams, studying and etc. Forgive me! :D I need to...watch the movie again; I'm having a sort of writers block. Hmm...I did buy the book though! And from what I'm reading I like! R&R please! 33 Oh, and I don't know Tom Pullings's history; so...since this is fan fiction, I made it up...-insert shrug- Sorry for typos! I might re-read this later and fix them all. But its late, and I'm lazy like that.
It was nice not to be awoken by crew men running about and the screaming of "Beat to Quarters!" whilst one tried to sleep. Tom Pullings had long ago gotten used to the rocking of the ship and used it to sway him into a deep sleep. He was exceptionally happy when he woke up by the simple rays of the morning sun peaking through his quarter's window.
With a small, squeak like groan; Captain Pullings stretched in his warm hammock and opened his eyes, blinking at the sunlight as he swung one leg lazily over the side, the toes inside the thick grey wool sock wiggling as he let his eyes adjust to the new day.
After sluggishly lifting his still sleepy frame out of the hammock, Pulling began to put on his uniform. Making sure every crease was perfect, every button straight, all the laces of his boots tightened neatly and tightly, and lastly; his captain's hat (which he always felt a rush of pride while putting on) before making way to the upper deck.
It was still dark, the sun had just raised enough to fill the horizon with enough light to fill the lower decks and flood the windows of the Acheron. Pullings inhaled deeply through his nose, the sharp sting of the mornings mist tingling his nose and throat with the icy air. He smiled and exhaled, forming a white cloud before him that soon diminished into air.
Segal nodded and gave a salute as he passed. Pullings bowed his head "Morning Segal" he said politely as he walked to the end of the ship, to the bow. He rested his hand on the railing and closed his eyes momentarily; letting the crisp wind blow across his face, whistle in his ears.
Pausing, he drummed his fingers along the ships strong wooden railing and turned around. He scanned over every crew mate, his eyes wandering up the masts at the top men who were scurrying effortlessly up and down the ropes.
He spotted a group of six French men, two officers among then, standing along the left side of the ship. Several where sitting and talking, others gazed over the edges. From across the way, in plain sight; two marines stood, rifles cocked and aimed, eyes stern, directly at the Frenchmen.
Pullings eyebrows furrowed and he started towards the marines. Both of them turned towards them as the clunk of his boots coming off the steps made them jump. Pulling stood before them and placed his hand on the barrel of one marine's rifle, lowering it as he stared firmly at the man.
"There is no need for that" he said flatly "They are doing you no harm" he voice was low, out of range of any other then the two before him "Put your guns away" he said. They obeyed, lowering their weapons. "They aren't cattle, you aren't hunting. All you have to do is watch them" He said, his eyes glancing back from one marine to the other, whose eyes kept darting from their captain to the Frenchmen.
"Is that clear?" he inquired. The marines both nodded and said "yes sir" in unison before staring straight ahead, the captain nodded "Thank you" he said as he walked past them.
Walking up to Master Seaman Hogg; who turned and saluted; Pullings gave a nod and looked about "We're making good speed"
"Aye sir."
"Fairly good weather today" he speculated, turning around to gaze at the still morning skies.
"Aye" Hogg said with a nod then made a small face of displeasure "But I can tell by the lack of mist tis' mornin' it's going to be a hot one today"
Pullings frowned slightly and nodded, from what he could tell it was a crisp, slightly windy day; but Hogg was holder then he; and a whaler. Or rather; was a whaler. He had probably been out on the sea for longer then Pullings himself.
Turning around after a brief though; Captain Pulling realized that he hadn't seen Gabrielle that morning, the rest of the officers and several French crew men were standing up on deck, gathered and speaking incoherently amongst themselves. Looking to face Mr. Hogg; Pulling raised an eyebrow
"Has Miss De Sonnet been out on deck this morning?"
"Oh no, sir. Midshipmen Williamson told me she didn't want to; he didn't argue with the lady; just let her stay down in the barracks with them other frenchies"
As the word "Frenchies" came out of Hogg's lips, Pullings' eyebrows furrowed slightly, enough for Hogg to notice; as he bowed his head and stepped backwards "Aye, sorry sir"
Raising both eyebrows, Pullings turned to face him and gave a small; captain like smile to the master sea men. Quickly turning around and walking briskly in the opposite direction. The last thing he wanted was rumors goings around the Acheron that he was going soft for the Frenchmen.
Reaching the below decks; the smell of sweat and sound of still snoring men echoed through both his nostrils and his ears. Above his head, he heard the sound of the bell chiming off; signifying the hour. Walking over several lumps of sleeping crew; Captain Pullings gave an awkward leap and stepped into the doctor's quarters, where Doctor Le Vigny was performing an operation on a quite apathetically and rather happy looking man.
Looking up to the doctors face; away from the patient's gleaming grin; Pullings removed his hat and cleared his throat. Utensils clinked and Le Vigny looked up "Just a moment capitaine" he said, and returned his attention back to the stomach of the cheerful patient.
Gripping his hat at his front with both hands, Pullings gazed around the well designed room before him. It was larger then the Surprise's; that much was obvious. White sheets draped the walls, ceiling and some of the floor; stained with blood and dirt. Looking down to his left; he eyed a long brown table; covered with dried blood and red colored physician apparatuses. Eyeing them for a long moment; Pullings' thoughts were scatted by the sound of the doctor clearing his throat.
Immediately lifted his head upright and straightening his back, he caught a glance at the patient, now with a large red faded gauze (that was once white) plastered to his wound; that some what frightening cheeky grin still plastered to his round face.
Meeting the eyes of the doctor and blinking several times; Pullings found himself slightly squeezing his hat between his head. Coughing softly; he looked up once more to the doctor "Yes, I...just came to ask you several questions"
Le Vigny smiled; seemingly genuine; but Tom still didn't like it.
"Yes monsieur?" he asked, cocking a curious eyebrow.
Glancing over once more at the patient, who didn't seem to be aware of anything that surrounded him; Pullings inhaled and spoke confidently "Why is that woman aboard this ship? De Sonnet?"
"Third Lieutenant De Sonnet" Le Vigny corrected.
"Yes, yes. Third Lieutenant De Sonnet, why is she aboard the Acheron?"
"Like everyone else monsieur capitaine. To serve for..." he paused "Our causes"
Pullings eyes narrowed momentarily with impatience, but he quickly returned his expression to that of indifference. Apathy was no weakness.
"Yes, as I am aware of Mr. Le Vigny. But; she is a woman. Don't you have...policies?"
"Why yes of course. But...she is the captain's daughter"
To stop his eyes from widened extensively, Pullings blinked several times "And that grants her acquiescence to be on this ship?"
"She loves the sea Monsieur, like her father; he never had a son" The doctor hung his head slightly; apparently in anguish for his lost captain.
Rising his head in a small nod, Pulling released his hat with one hand, his clammy hand reaching up to briefly scratch his head as he eyed the captain somewhat suspiciously.
"I see"
"Yes capitaine, it is true. When she ship was attacked; the first thing he did was make sure she was safe"
"In that cabin; in the Great Cabin"
He nodded humbly "Oui, yes. He told her to stay in there until they reached port"
"...alright. Thank you" he said and gave a nod before baking up and out of the small infirmary and turning to make his way towards the small jail sells; once acknowledging the marine on duty with a nod; he turned and peered in the first cell. From what he could tell looking into the dark dank and quite malodorous chamber was that five very tired and irritated looking French sea men were looking crossly back at him. Straightening up and placing his hands behind his back, Pullings shifted his neck a bit and cleared his throat before side stepping to the other cell. Four out of the six French officers sat huddled together, from the long thick hair, Pullings was able to pick out Miss De Sonnet, who sat back in the corner of the small cell; legs curled up; her face hidden behind shadows and locks of ebony hair.
One French officer; a midshipman; no older then Pullings himself; looked up and widened his eyes. After a still moment; he softly cleared his throat "Oui monsieur?" he asked timidly.
"Third Lieutenant De Sonnet..." he started; turning his eyes back towards her. Suddenly; as he realized he was at a complete loss for words; it dawned on him. Why was he down here?
The small officer nodded and turned towards her. He watched as the small boy crawled over to her and gently shook her obviously sleeping frame. Her head jerked up and she buried her face in her hand; shaking her head and rubbing her eyes. Looking up, the French midshipman pointed towards him.
As Gabrielle's eyes met Pullings's own; he was once again at a loss for words. He watched quietly as she stood and brushed off the dust that lay over her uniform. Walking over towards him, he peered down at her through the thick steal bars that separated them.
"Capitaine" she said with a nod, blinking several times as her eyes adjusted to soft light that filled the cabin.
He smiled "Miss De Sonnet" bowing his head slowly to the side. "I was wondering if you'd accompany me to the upper decks"
Blinking, her green eyes registered with confusion for a moment before she looked down, as if to think. Lifting her head, her eyes locked momentarily with his as she smiled with the corner of her lips "Okay" she said.
After the marine let Gabrielle out of her cell, Captain Pullings lead up to the upper decks of the Acheron, feeling somewhat foolish; leading her around the ship that she more then likely knew much better then himself.
Once they were fully at the stern; where Midshipmen Williamson gave them each a nod and Pullings a "sir" and headed briskly off and towards the quarterdeck; Gabrielle took a seat and sighed, turning her head to look at the bright ocean. It was getting hot out; it was already exceptionally hotter then when he had first went below decks.
Leaning one arm onto the rails; Pullings looked towards the horizon; squinted as the sun shown on him. "So, Third lieutenant; you are the captains daughter?" he inquired; trying to sound more like innocent conversation that a captains demanding answers from a crewman.
Turning to briefly look at him, Gabrielle blinked; her face read that she was somewhat surprised. Turning back to the sea; away from the captain, he saw her shoulder fall as she exhaled "Yes, that is correct. He is...was my father" she brought up her arm across herself and rested it on her shoulder.
"We should be in port Valparaiso by nightfall tomorrow" he said.
Her head fell slightly as he watched her; she placed her hand under her chin. "I see. And what will happen to us when we reach Valparaiso?"
Taken aback by the question, Pullings's eyes dropped to the floor; as if searching the boards for the accurate response. Sheepishly; he scratched the back of his head and lifted his gaze; only to find that Gabrielle own eyes were looking directly at him; through him, and he felt terrible
"I honestly don't know Miss..." he said, then quickly corrected himself with a cough "Third lieutenant"
Suddenly, her eyes filled with what seemed like understanding and she smiled gently before giving a small; sad nod "That's alright, I can't expect you to..." she paused.
"Pullings...Tom Pullings" He supplied.
"Tom Pullings" she said softly; the smile slowly disappearing from her face as she turned back around towards the ocean.
It was impossible for him to remember how long he stood there, watching her, time seemed to either zoom past; or stand still. They indulged in simple conversations; especially both their fascination with the sea. Gabrielle told him of her love for the sea at night; when all the stars were out; and how her father taught her about mapping; and how she'd never be lost as long as the stars were visible. Pullings had never spoken with a woman with so much care for the sea; he just loved watched her eyes lit up with admiration as she talked about it.
He told her about how his father had been a carpenter; but had never been out to sea. How he always built boats on shore and how he taught him the layout of a ship when he was little; and would always give him little wooden boat carvings, and as much as he tried; his carvings would never look anything like his dads. He told her how he had a special gift with wood, carving and shaping; how it was never passed down onto him; he might as well have had no opposable thumbs when it came to wood carving.
"I always told him I would be on the sea one day. Commanding a ship he built." A small, dim smile appeared on his lips and faded away as he turned towards the sea. He saw Gabrielle look over through the corner of his eyes, smiling.
"It's nice" Pullings said, taking a step back and placing his hands composedly behind his back as he continued "Having someone who holds the same passion as you" he glanced down at Gabrielle as she stood up, resting her hand on the rail as the muggy morning wind blew through her loosely tied hair.
"It is" she said softly, almost to herself. Turning around, she leaned backwards against the rail and turned her head to the side. "...he must have helped you then, to learn the makes of man-o-wars; your father"
Lifting his gaze; Pullings was momentarily stunned, his thoughts of track as he scanned her pale face behind the long locks of shadowed; ebony hair that blew freely about her face. Shaking his head; he quickly brushed the thought away and averted his gaze whilst clearing his throat "Ahm, yes; he did. I never wanted to listen" he said, smiling slightly with the reminiscent thoughts. "I could have cared less about the make of the beasts, I wanted to ride them, not build them"
She turned her head once more to look at him; still smiling. He didn't say anything, he couldn't, he stood; dumfounded; outwardly staring at her, it never dawning on him that she stared blatantly back, or possibly neither of them noticed as they stood gazing at each other in silence.
Abruptly, the thudding of running footsteps broke Pullings free of his daydream and he quickly shook his head and restored his hat (which he didn't quite remember taking off) back onto his head. A Frenchman appeared on the deck and ran vigorously over to Gabrielle, who; was still peering over at Pullings, who's eyes wandered once more to meet her own as his hands rested on his hat.
"Left tenant?"
Slowly, Gabrielle turned her head towards the intruder "Yes Frogier" she said sternly. Her voice changed to that of authority, her back straightened. Impressed, Pullings have a small smile and fixed his hat on his head. Looking past Gabrielle, his eyes came to rest on the one she was conversing with; by the name Frogier; who was giving him quiet the awry glance.
After a moment of quick paced French that Pullings didn't even bother at attempting to follow; she turned around and bowed her head. "I take my leave, thank you...Captain Pullings" she said, pronouncing captain with an English tongue. Her eyes met with his and lingered for a moment, before she gave once more small; kind smile and turned around; following the one called Frogier.
After she was gone from view, Pullings had turned around and faced the sea once more. Thoughts racking his brain as he tried to pry his mind away from thoughts of her. Sighing heavily; he turned fully around just as Mr. Hogg appeared before him.
"Hello Hogg" He said, bowing his head in greetings.
"Sir" He said and gave a stern nod, followed by a smile.
A the Master Seaman opened his mouth to say something; Pullings spotted Private Trollop of the Royal Marines and another marine speaking rather loudly at the group of Frenchmen onboard. "What is that private doing Mr. Hogg?"
Turning around, Mr. Hogg quickly surveyed the scene "Why sir, their directing the frenchies below decks to switch em' up"
Recalling that the Frenchmen alternated time above deck; Pullings gave a small "oh" of recollection as Mr. Hogg turned around. As he watched the two Marines lead the small band of Frenchmen below decks, he caught sight of Gabrielle; who for a moment, looked up and seemed to lock eyes with the captain. He watched as she was lead below decks and completed out of sight. Sighing softly through his nose; Pullings realized that Mr. Hogg had been talking to him the whole time. Shaking his head, Captain Pullings turned to face the still speaking Mr. Hogg, who paused and cocked an eyebrow.
"Sorry Hogg, my mind must have sauntered off. What were you saying?"
Disclaimer: I don't own was is not mine
A/N: Holy poop! Sorry for the wait. School, projects, exams, studying and etc. Forgive me! :D I need to...watch the movie again; I'm having a sort of writers block. Hmm...I did buy the book though! And from what I'm reading I like! R&R please! 33 Oh, and I don't know Tom Pullings's history; so...since this is fan fiction, I made it up...-insert shrug- Sorry for typos! I might re-read this later and fix them all. But its late, and I'm lazy like that.
It was nice not to be awoken by crew men running about and the screaming of "Beat to Quarters!" whilst one tried to sleep. Tom Pullings had long ago gotten used to the rocking of the ship and used it to sway him into a deep sleep. He was exceptionally happy when he woke up by the simple rays of the morning sun peaking through his quarter's window.
With a small, squeak like groan; Captain Pullings stretched in his warm hammock and opened his eyes, blinking at the sunlight as he swung one leg lazily over the side, the toes inside the thick grey wool sock wiggling as he let his eyes adjust to the new day.
After sluggishly lifting his still sleepy frame out of the hammock, Pulling began to put on his uniform. Making sure every crease was perfect, every button straight, all the laces of his boots tightened neatly and tightly, and lastly; his captain's hat (which he always felt a rush of pride while putting on) before making way to the upper deck.
It was still dark, the sun had just raised enough to fill the horizon with enough light to fill the lower decks and flood the windows of the Acheron. Pullings inhaled deeply through his nose, the sharp sting of the mornings mist tingling his nose and throat with the icy air. He smiled and exhaled, forming a white cloud before him that soon diminished into air.
Segal nodded and gave a salute as he passed. Pullings bowed his head "Morning Segal" he said politely as he walked to the end of the ship, to the bow. He rested his hand on the railing and closed his eyes momentarily; letting the crisp wind blow across his face, whistle in his ears.
Pausing, he drummed his fingers along the ships strong wooden railing and turned around. He scanned over every crew mate, his eyes wandering up the masts at the top men who were scurrying effortlessly up and down the ropes.
He spotted a group of six French men, two officers among then, standing along the left side of the ship. Several where sitting and talking, others gazed over the edges. From across the way, in plain sight; two marines stood, rifles cocked and aimed, eyes stern, directly at the Frenchmen.
Pullings eyebrows furrowed and he started towards the marines. Both of them turned towards them as the clunk of his boots coming off the steps made them jump. Pulling stood before them and placed his hand on the barrel of one marine's rifle, lowering it as he stared firmly at the man.
"There is no need for that" he said flatly "They are doing you no harm" he voice was low, out of range of any other then the two before him "Put your guns away" he said. They obeyed, lowering their weapons. "They aren't cattle, you aren't hunting. All you have to do is watch them" He said, his eyes glancing back from one marine to the other, whose eyes kept darting from their captain to the Frenchmen.
"Is that clear?" he inquired. The marines both nodded and said "yes sir" in unison before staring straight ahead, the captain nodded "Thank you" he said as he walked past them.
Walking up to Master Seaman Hogg; who turned and saluted; Pullings gave a nod and looked about "We're making good speed"
"Aye sir."
"Fairly good weather today" he speculated, turning around to gaze at the still morning skies.
"Aye" Hogg said with a nod then made a small face of displeasure "But I can tell by the lack of mist tis' mornin' it's going to be a hot one today"
Pullings frowned slightly and nodded, from what he could tell it was a crisp, slightly windy day; but Hogg was holder then he; and a whaler. Or rather; was a whaler. He had probably been out on the sea for longer then Pullings himself.
Turning around after a brief though; Captain Pulling realized that he hadn't seen Gabrielle that morning, the rest of the officers and several French crew men were standing up on deck, gathered and speaking incoherently amongst themselves. Looking to face Mr. Hogg; Pulling raised an eyebrow
"Has Miss De Sonnet been out on deck this morning?"
"Oh no, sir. Midshipmen Williamson told me she didn't want to; he didn't argue with the lady; just let her stay down in the barracks with them other frenchies"
As the word "Frenchies" came out of Hogg's lips, Pullings' eyebrows furrowed slightly, enough for Hogg to notice; as he bowed his head and stepped backwards "Aye, sorry sir"
Raising both eyebrows, Pullings turned to face him and gave a small; captain like smile to the master sea men. Quickly turning around and walking briskly in the opposite direction. The last thing he wanted was rumors goings around the Acheron that he was going soft for the Frenchmen.
Reaching the below decks; the smell of sweat and sound of still snoring men echoed through both his nostrils and his ears. Above his head, he heard the sound of the bell chiming off; signifying the hour. Walking over several lumps of sleeping crew; Captain Pullings gave an awkward leap and stepped into the doctor's quarters, where Doctor Le Vigny was performing an operation on a quite apathetically and rather happy looking man.
Looking up to the doctors face; away from the patient's gleaming grin; Pullings removed his hat and cleared his throat. Utensils clinked and Le Vigny looked up "Just a moment capitaine" he said, and returned his attention back to the stomach of the cheerful patient.
Gripping his hat at his front with both hands, Pullings gazed around the well designed room before him. It was larger then the Surprise's; that much was obvious. White sheets draped the walls, ceiling and some of the floor; stained with blood and dirt. Looking down to his left; he eyed a long brown table; covered with dried blood and red colored physician apparatuses. Eyeing them for a long moment; Pullings' thoughts were scatted by the sound of the doctor clearing his throat.
Immediately lifted his head upright and straightening his back, he caught a glance at the patient, now with a large red faded gauze (that was once white) plastered to his wound; that some what frightening cheeky grin still plastered to his round face.
Meeting the eyes of the doctor and blinking several times; Pullings found himself slightly squeezing his hat between his head. Coughing softly; he looked up once more to the doctor "Yes, I...just came to ask you several questions"
Le Vigny smiled; seemingly genuine; but Tom still didn't like it.
"Yes monsieur?" he asked, cocking a curious eyebrow.
Glancing over once more at the patient, who didn't seem to be aware of anything that surrounded him; Pullings inhaled and spoke confidently "Why is that woman aboard this ship? De Sonnet?"
"Third Lieutenant De Sonnet" Le Vigny corrected.
"Yes, yes. Third Lieutenant De Sonnet, why is she aboard the Acheron?"
"Like everyone else monsieur capitaine. To serve for..." he paused "Our causes"
Pullings eyes narrowed momentarily with impatience, but he quickly returned his expression to that of indifference. Apathy was no weakness.
"Yes, as I am aware of Mr. Le Vigny. But; she is a woman. Don't you have...policies?"
"Why yes of course. But...she is the captain's daughter"
To stop his eyes from widened extensively, Pullings blinked several times "And that grants her acquiescence to be on this ship?"
"She loves the sea Monsieur, like her father; he never had a son" The doctor hung his head slightly; apparently in anguish for his lost captain.
Rising his head in a small nod, Pulling released his hat with one hand, his clammy hand reaching up to briefly scratch his head as he eyed the captain somewhat suspiciously.
"I see"
"Yes capitaine, it is true. When she ship was attacked; the first thing he did was make sure she was safe"
"In that cabin; in the Great Cabin"
He nodded humbly "Oui, yes. He told her to stay in there until they reached port"
"...alright. Thank you" he said and gave a nod before baking up and out of the small infirmary and turning to make his way towards the small jail sells; once acknowledging the marine on duty with a nod; he turned and peered in the first cell. From what he could tell looking into the dark dank and quite malodorous chamber was that five very tired and irritated looking French sea men were looking crossly back at him. Straightening up and placing his hands behind his back, Pullings shifted his neck a bit and cleared his throat before side stepping to the other cell. Four out of the six French officers sat huddled together, from the long thick hair, Pullings was able to pick out Miss De Sonnet, who sat back in the corner of the small cell; legs curled up; her face hidden behind shadows and locks of ebony hair.
One French officer; a midshipman; no older then Pullings himself; looked up and widened his eyes. After a still moment; he softly cleared his throat "Oui monsieur?" he asked timidly.
"Third Lieutenant De Sonnet..." he started; turning his eyes back towards her. Suddenly; as he realized he was at a complete loss for words; it dawned on him. Why was he down here?
The small officer nodded and turned towards her. He watched as the small boy crawled over to her and gently shook her obviously sleeping frame. Her head jerked up and she buried her face in her hand; shaking her head and rubbing her eyes. Looking up, the French midshipman pointed towards him.
As Gabrielle's eyes met Pullings's own; he was once again at a loss for words. He watched quietly as she stood and brushed off the dust that lay over her uniform. Walking over towards him, he peered down at her through the thick steal bars that separated them.
"Capitaine" she said with a nod, blinking several times as her eyes adjusted to soft light that filled the cabin.
He smiled "Miss De Sonnet" bowing his head slowly to the side. "I was wondering if you'd accompany me to the upper decks"
Blinking, her green eyes registered with confusion for a moment before she looked down, as if to think. Lifting her head, her eyes locked momentarily with his as she smiled with the corner of her lips "Okay" she said.
After the marine let Gabrielle out of her cell, Captain Pullings lead up to the upper decks of the Acheron, feeling somewhat foolish; leading her around the ship that she more then likely knew much better then himself.
Once they were fully at the stern; where Midshipmen Williamson gave them each a nod and Pullings a "sir" and headed briskly off and towards the quarterdeck; Gabrielle took a seat and sighed, turning her head to look at the bright ocean. It was getting hot out; it was already exceptionally hotter then when he had first went below decks.
Leaning one arm onto the rails; Pullings looked towards the horizon; squinted as the sun shown on him. "So, Third lieutenant; you are the captains daughter?" he inquired; trying to sound more like innocent conversation that a captains demanding answers from a crewman.
Turning to briefly look at him, Gabrielle blinked; her face read that she was somewhat surprised. Turning back to the sea; away from the captain, he saw her shoulder fall as she exhaled "Yes, that is correct. He is...was my father" she brought up her arm across herself and rested it on her shoulder.
"We should be in port Valparaiso by nightfall tomorrow" he said.
Her head fell slightly as he watched her; she placed her hand under her chin. "I see. And what will happen to us when we reach Valparaiso?"
Taken aback by the question, Pullings's eyes dropped to the floor; as if searching the boards for the accurate response. Sheepishly; he scratched the back of his head and lifted his gaze; only to find that Gabrielle own eyes were looking directly at him; through him, and he felt terrible
"I honestly don't know Miss..." he said, then quickly corrected himself with a cough "Third lieutenant"
Suddenly, her eyes filled with what seemed like understanding and she smiled gently before giving a small; sad nod "That's alright, I can't expect you to..." she paused.
"Pullings...Tom Pullings" He supplied.
"Tom Pullings" she said softly; the smile slowly disappearing from her face as she turned back around towards the ocean.
It was impossible for him to remember how long he stood there, watching her, time seemed to either zoom past; or stand still. They indulged in simple conversations; especially both their fascination with the sea. Gabrielle told him of her love for the sea at night; when all the stars were out; and how her father taught her about mapping; and how she'd never be lost as long as the stars were visible. Pullings had never spoken with a woman with so much care for the sea; he just loved watched her eyes lit up with admiration as she talked about it.
He told her about how his father had been a carpenter; but had never been out to sea. How he always built boats on shore and how he taught him the layout of a ship when he was little; and would always give him little wooden boat carvings, and as much as he tried; his carvings would never look anything like his dads. He told her how he had a special gift with wood, carving and shaping; how it was never passed down onto him; he might as well have had no opposable thumbs when it came to wood carving.
"I always told him I would be on the sea one day. Commanding a ship he built." A small, dim smile appeared on his lips and faded away as he turned towards the sea. He saw Gabrielle look over through the corner of his eyes, smiling.
"It's nice" Pullings said, taking a step back and placing his hands composedly behind his back as he continued "Having someone who holds the same passion as you" he glanced down at Gabrielle as she stood up, resting her hand on the rail as the muggy morning wind blew through her loosely tied hair.
"It is" she said softly, almost to herself. Turning around, she leaned backwards against the rail and turned her head to the side. "...he must have helped you then, to learn the makes of man-o-wars; your father"
Lifting his gaze; Pullings was momentarily stunned, his thoughts of track as he scanned her pale face behind the long locks of shadowed; ebony hair that blew freely about her face. Shaking his head; he quickly brushed the thought away and averted his gaze whilst clearing his throat "Ahm, yes; he did. I never wanted to listen" he said, smiling slightly with the reminiscent thoughts. "I could have cared less about the make of the beasts, I wanted to ride them, not build them"
She turned her head once more to look at him; still smiling. He didn't say anything, he couldn't, he stood; dumfounded; outwardly staring at her, it never dawning on him that she stared blatantly back, or possibly neither of them noticed as they stood gazing at each other in silence.
Abruptly, the thudding of running footsteps broke Pullings free of his daydream and he quickly shook his head and restored his hat (which he didn't quite remember taking off) back onto his head. A Frenchman appeared on the deck and ran vigorously over to Gabrielle, who; was still peering over at Pullings, who's eyes wandered once more to meet her own as his hands rested on his hat.
"Left tenant?"
Slowly, Gabrielle turned her head towards the intruder "Yes Frogier" she said sternly. Her voice changed to that of authority, her back straightened. Impressed, Pullings have a small smile and fixed his hat on his head. Looking past Gabrielle, his eyes came to rest on the one she was conversing with; by the name Frogier; who was giving him quiet the awry glance.
After a moment of quick paced French that Pullings didn't even bother at attempting to follow; she turned around and bowed her head. "I take my leave, thank you...Captain Pullings" she said, pronouncing captain with an English tongue. Her eyes met with his and lingered for a moment, before she gave once more small; kind smile and turned around; following the one called Frogier.
After she was gone from view, Pullings had turned around and faced the sea once more. Thoughts racking his brain as he tried to pry his mind away from thoughts of her. Sighing heavily; he turned fully around just as Mr. Hogg appeared before him.
"Hello Hogg" He said, bowing his head in greetings.
"Sir" He said and gave a stern nod, followed by a smile.
A the Master Seaman opened his mouth to say something; Pullings spotted Private Trollop of the Royal Marines and another marine speaking rather loudly at the group of Frenchmen onboard. "What is that private doing Mr. Hogg?"
Turning around, Mr. Hogg quickly surveyed the scene "Why sir, their directing the frenchies below decks to switch em' up"
Recalling that the Frenchmen alternated time above deck; Pullings gave a small "oh" of recollection as Mr. Hogg turned around. As he watched the two Marines lead the small band of Frenchmen below decks, he caught sight of Gabrielle; who for a moment, looked up and seemed to lock eyes with the captain. He watched as she was lead below decks and completed out of sight. Sighing softly through his nose; Pullings realized that Mr. Hogg had been talking to him the whole time. Shaking his head, Captain Pullings turned to face the still speaking Mr. Hogg, who paused and cocked an eyebrow.
"Sorry Hogg, my mind must have sauntered off. What were you saying?"