"The weather doesn't seem to be improving," Clara Killian commented, as she
sat by the window. "Only a madman would be outside tonight."
Will and Elizabeth shared a private smile, thinking of the one person who fits that bill. However, they very much doubted Jack Sparrow would be caught outside in this weather. No, he was probably still in the Inn, warming up with some rum and company. Elizabeth wrapped her light jacket around herself tightly. It was a good thing she was smart enough to throw on a warmer jacket over her nightgown, before she rushed her husband over. Now that she was stuck at the Killians' residency, she felt very self- conscious about how inappropriately she was dressed.
"Where's Mr. Killian?" Will asked after a prolonged silence. Beth Killian was pouring them all a second serving of soup, and preparing dinner for them. She paused for a moment, before saying quietly:
"There is no Mr. Killian."
"I'm sorry," Will said quickly. "I didn't mean to pry-"
"It's quite alright." Beth smiled tightly, the polite smile not quite reaching her eyes. "You were curious and it was an innocent question, there's nothing to apologize for."
"Where are you from?" Clara changed the subject, obviously a touchy one.
"I was born and raised in England, but when I was a lad I moved to Port Royal- where Elizabeth is from," Will explained, smiling.
"It's so far away," Clara marveled. "I bet it takes months to get there!"
"About a month," Elizabeth smiled, remembering the journey here. There were some precious moments with Will she would not trade for the world. It was hard for her to admit to it, but there were moments when she spoke with Jack that she will not quickly forget, either. When he wanted to be, he could be a very good friend to her, and to Will of course. She wondered if he had any close friends, beside Bootstrap Bill and apparently Captain Saunders. The life of a Pirate, especially a Captain can be very lonely- he must have a difficult time trusting people, which is understandable considering his past...
"I wish to travel some day," Clara said with shining eyes. "To leave Sleepy Hollow and see the world..." She finished with a sigh, as a sad smile crossed her pretty features. "It is a nice fantasy."
"I'm sure once we're done here, we could help you get wherever you're going," Elizabeth said, before she realized what she was saying. She met Will's shake of the head with a stubborn firmness. "I'll have to talk with our Captain, but if he doesn't agree, I'm sure-"
"Thank you, Mrs. Turner," Clara interrupted her. "You're quite kind, but I do not have the money to sail away from here, else I would have left ages ago."
"It's Elizabeth, Mrs. Turner makes me feel like an old maiden," Elizabeth smiled brilliantly. She made up her mind that when they solve the case (which she did not doubt for a moment) she would give Clara a small portion of her reward money- just enough to get her started. She knew what it was like to feel trapped in one place.
Clara returned the smile with a blush. "Elizabeth, then. You're very generous, considering you hardly know me- most people aren't that trusting." They settled into a comfortable silence, waiting for the meal to be ready. Then both Elizabeth and Will thought about Elizabeth's cooking, and burst into laughter.
Beth and Clara stared at the laughing couple with a worried expression.
"Exactly what HERBS did you give him, mother?" Clara asked smirking.
Beth glared at her cheeky daughter. "Not any of THOSE herbs, I'm telling you that. Perhaps they have a fever?"
"We're alright," Elizabeth said between laughs, trying to remember the last time she laughed so hard. "We were just sharing a FOND memory."
"Newly weds," Beth said smiling. "I remember what that was like, I was married myself once, a long time ago." She got up and went to check on the food, which was nearly ready. Clara looked out the window at the dark and morbid sky, with storm clouds drifting above threateningly. The rain pummeled stronger, accompanied by lightening and thunder.
"We haven't had weather this bad in weeks." Clara said frowning. "That's odd, the last time we had this type of weather-" She stopped short, her mind catching up with her mouth.
"That last time you have this type of weather, what?" Will asked, dreading the answer. She turned to him and the lightning, giving it a stone-cold bluish tint, illuminated her face. Her eyes were dark and foreboding.
"Someone was murdered."
*
"Mr. Sparrow, sir- have you seen the silverware?" Young Masbath said timidly, as he approached the pirate. He heard some stories about the legendary Captain Jack Sparrow- how he escaped the Island he was trapped on, how he raided an entire village without firing a single shot... Wondrous stories that seemed far fetched, to say the least. He may have been thirteen years old, but he was not a gullible child.
At first glance there was nothing special about this Pirate- he seemed like any swaggering, drunk buccaneer Masbath heard of from campfire stories. But upon closer inspection, one noticed that keen gleam in his dark eyes, that calculating and calm look, behind the crazy facade, if indeed it was a facade. It was like the shrewd intellect of a cat, sizing up its prey while pretending to be asleep or weak, luring it closer. He just knew that in a moment of danger or advantage, this sea cat would leap up and attack. Which made it all the more difficult to come out and accuse HIM- the unstoppable and ruthless Jack Sparrow, of... Stealing spoons and forks.
"I beg your pardon?" Jack asked in a mixture of amusement and confusion, his eyebrows spiking up. He smiled lazily at the boy, while he continued to sit on his chain near the bar. The image of a large cat was still firm in Masbath's mind, and he nearly looked around for a long swishing tail. Masbath cleared his throat, suddenly feeling that this was not a good idea.
"Our Silverware, sir. It's gone missing and we need it for the party tonight, you see..." His voice faltered and he could feel perspiration beginning to bead on his forehead and on his hands. It was just like speaking up in Master Connolly's classes- when he felt everyone's eyes on him...
Right now there were only one pair of eyes on him, but they sent so many tremors and chills down his spine, it was suffice in making him suddenly fearful. The dark eyes scrutinized him for a moment, before they relaxed into their amused state.
"I see," Jack smiled thinly. "And what makes you think I would know where the missing artifacts are?"
"I never said you knew or nothing," Masbath stuttered quickly. "I just asked, that's all." After a moment's hesitation he took a deep breath and squared his shoulders and mumbled without stopping. "I wouldn't be asking you, except there's the party, see, and we need the silverware for dinner. We can't really have a dinner without them and my father is going mad with concern. It would mean a lot of money for us, if it all goes well and Mrs. Van Brunt will be coming back anytime now with the guests-"
"How long can you go without breathing?" Jack marveled curiously.
"A fairly long time, sir." Masbath replied shakily.
"Interesting," Jack categorized that information in his head and addressed the matter at hand. "What's your name, boy?"
"Masbath, sir."
"Your Christian name," Jack corrected easily.
"Frederick," Masbath said uncomfortably. He wondered what the pirate would do to him for accusing him of theft- would he disembowel him? Make him walk the plank? Would he get to see the inside of the Black Pearl in order to actually WALK the plank...?
"Well, Freddy," Jack said, his tone serious and his eyes veiled. "It is a grave offense to accuse a Pirate." Masbath's shoulders slumped and his gaze was cast downwards. "But it also takes great guts- I like that." Jack smiled at him in a good mood.
Masbath couldn't believe his good fortune- he wasn't going to die a painful death AND the infamous pirate himself was complimenting him? Boy the kids at school would never believe him! Perhaps he could take him with him, just to prove himself. He shook the thought away, deciding Jack Sparrow was not fit in a school and would probably scare half of them to death.
"What made you think it was me?" Jack asked curiously, leaning on one elbow and grabbing a depressed grape from a basket. Or as some called them: Raisins.
"I saw you the other day, "borrowing" them." Masbath was careful not to offend the pirate and give him room to return the silverware. Jack's good mood could swiftly change at any minute, he knew this from countless hours he spent working at his father's Inn. One moment they were merry and joyful drunks, the next he had to try and stop the ensuing fist fight. It helped him gain caution and insight into the adult mind, however, and that was not such a bad thing.
"Nay, I didn't borrow them, I stole them- there's a marginal difference." Jack nodded his head as he jumped on his feet. "But I do think I have an adequate replacement for them." He started walking outside, in the pouring rain. Masbath stared after him, before grabbing a lantern and rushing after him.
"Where are we going?" He asked Jack curiously, not sure whether the pirate would dismiss him or allow him to tag along.
"To my Beauty," Jack smiled. It tore at him to be parted from her for so long, he would use any excuse to return to her. He didn't think it odd at all, considering he spent ten long years separated from her, longing for her.
Masbath's eyes sparkled, when he realized what Jack was talking about. "We're going onboard the Black Pearl?" He asked in wonder- no one was going to believe him!
"No," Jack said slowly. "I'M going onboard the Black Pearl, YOU are staying outside and waiting for me." He saw the disappointed look on the youth's face and so he added: "If you'll be a good lad, in the morning I'll let you wax her outer haul for me." It managed to brighten up the boy and Jack chuckled, thinking how easy it was to satisfy children. He had to admit he missed that slightly, his memory of his teaching days somewhat obscure. Children were simply sweet, gullible and eager to please.
Weren't they?
*
"YOU, boy!" Jonathan Masbath said, as he gripped his son by the collar. He dragged him behind the counter and picked up a shiny metal spoon and shoved it in his face. "Where did THESE come from?" He asked angrily, a dangerous edge to his voice.
Frederick Masbath swallowed hard and stammered. "They're replacements, for the ones that were stol- lost." He said meekly, trying not to look in Jack Sparrow's direction for support. Jack could see that the boy was in for trouble, and so he sauntered over with his usual swagger and spoke up.
"Aye, the boy be right." He said casually. "I couldn't help but notice you were a bit... Short on silverware, so I felt obliged to supply my extra set."
"Why would you feel obliged?" Jonathan said, squinting his eyes disdainfully.
"Because they'll be a party tonight!" Jack said as though it were obvious. "And I love parties! I knew it would ruin the fun, not to have serving pieces, so as a future attendee of said party, I felt it my obligation to accommodate, savvy?"
"Savvy," Jonathan said grudgingly, as he let go of his son. He had his suspicions about the pirate's sudden giving nature, but he had no proof and he WAS a paying costumer and helped him out of this jam... "Thank you, sir." He nearly spat. Jack smiled in return and the doors burst open with the first arrivals.
"And so it begins," Jack mused to himself, as his eyes roamed the newcomers. There were violinists, some middle aged town women, Katrina and a young and pretty woman who had the uncanny resemblance to...
Brom Bones.
Jack scrutinized her more closely. This must be Ms. Van Brunt, Katrina's daughter. She had dark, curly hair that was in sharp contrast with her white skin. Her eyes were a softer tone of brown, and right now were looking about in disdain.
"Is this it?" She asked in a huff, looking at the decorations, the Inn, the musicians and finally resting her eyes on Jack Sparrow. She looked him up and down, taking in his clothing and shabby hair. "Are we letting in simply ANYONE from the street? I will not have beggars in my party!"
'Aye, without a doubt- Brom Bone's daughter.' Jack sighed to himself, but took it with stride. He learned long ago not to take anything, including himself (but not the Pearl) too seriously. He plastered a lazy smile on his face and said: "This particular beggar probably has more gold than you have ever dreamed of." He got up and swaggered close to Ms. Van Brunt. She took a step back, but he was in her face and he whispered:
"I'd be careful with that acid tongue, if I were you, Love. Might make a pirate think twice about saving your pretty neck." He pushed her hair back with his fingers, and she drew back and slapped him on the face. Hard.
"Mary!" Katrina said angrily. She was putting the finishing touch on the decorations, when she turned around and saw her daughter slapping Jack. Although she had no doubt he earned it, it was about time her headstrong daughter learned how to act more lady-like. "Apologize to Captain Sparrow this instant!"
"I will not!" Mary nearly shrieked, stumping her feet. "And what is this strange pirate doing here in the first place?"
"He came because of the reward," Katrina said calmly, though she knew she was losing her composure. It was a daily struggle with her daughter, who takes after her father. Unfortunately.
"I will NOT let our money go into the filthy hands of a Pirate!" She said and stormed out.
"Mary!" Katrina said exasperated, as she ran after her, into the rain. Jack watched the exchange with interest, and was grateful he had no children. That he knew of, at any rate. That thought sent a sudden dread coursing through his body, and he prayed to God that he had no rascals running amuck somewhere out there.
Speaking of little rascals...
He watched as a group of a dozen little children, no older than Freddy Masbath came running in, followed at a slower pace by their schoolmaster Connolly. The children were yelling and dancing and running around the place.
'No, no, no!' He thought to himself. 'You cannot have children at a party, they will just end up ruining it!' He glanced wearily at the screaming scoundrels and made up his mind to go upstairs, and wait for Will and Elizabeth to return, before planning out this investigation. The first thing they needed to do was go through the names on the list, and try to find something that connected them all, to find out who their enemies were and who had the strongest motive to kill them. Could the Headless Horseman, had he done it, have motive to kill?
"There ARE Pirates, you idiot." Freddy Masbath was saying. "See that man over there? HE'S CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow! THE Jack Sparrow!"
Jack stared at the boy with pure panic written on his forehead, as all those beady little eyes turned to him, sizing him up. Then, like a wave they all rushed over to him, some only as high as his waist and were chirping and asking questions all at once. Jack got up to leave, but they tugged and tagged and there was no hope for escape. He was surrounded, and he had no other choice other than to surrender.
"I heard he was captive on an Island by cannibals and he escaped on the backs of sea turtles!"
"I heard he carried the same pistol for ten years with one shot and killed the undead Barbosa with it!"
"I heard he IS undead- that's how he never died of thirst, wasn't killed by those skeletons and managed to survive being shot in the chest TWO times!"
"Actually, it's three," Jack pointed out, rather enjoying the admiring attention. A nice crowd was so hard to come by, these days.
"Really?" A little blond haired boy gawked. "Can we see it?"
Jack paused for dramatic effect, before pulling down the top of his shirt, and exposing his right side of the chest. The kids "wowed" and "awed" at the sight of the three small puncture marks in his chest, undoubtedly bullet holes.
"They happened when that Spanish officer came after you," Freddy said, remembering. "The one you humiliated and-"
"Javier Gonzales," Jack nodded gravely. That fella simply wouldn't relent and made his life a living hell for a long time.
"I haven't heard of THAT one," a freckled face red head said, his eyes large and wondering.
"Me neither," a squawky (obviously his voice was changing) blue eyed boy added.
The children looked at each other and turned back to Jack, chanting: "STORY, STORY, STORY, STORY-"
"Oh alright!" Jack nearly shouted with frustration. He was seriously beginning to detest children, with their icky and sticky fingers, big round eyes and demanding nature. "I'll tell you how I met Javier Gonzales, the terror of any Pirate in the seven seas and how I single handedly saved the Black Pearl..."
~ "Alright, out with it!" Jack said annoyed to Bill. They were walking towards the Pearl, after spending almost a week in this God Forsaken town, getting the latest news on the Spanish Ship carrying the gold. During the entire duration, Bill was nothing if not cheerful and.... Blissful, something Jack found completely unnerving.
"Out with what?" Bill asked innocently, that happy goofy smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"Something has made you into this insufferable puppy," Jack said contemptfully.
"It's simple, Jack," Bill grinned at his friend's annoyance and capped him on the shoulder. "I'm in love."
"Ah," Jack said rolling his eyes. "I hear that is not a rare thing for you, mate." Captain Saunders informed Jack that Bill was quite the romantic- he did not sleep with many women, oh no, he fell in love with them. He would come on board after some shore leave, his eyes sparkling and would tell the bored crew about his latest ladylove and how he adored her.
"This time it's different," Bill argued, though he said that phrase many times before, claiming each woman was the love of his life as no other has been. "Christina is different, she's.... Special, like a flower in its-"
"If you start reciting poetry about your lady love I will be forced to throw you overboard," Jack warned, as they neared Saunders and the crew. Thankfully. If Jack had to stand this any longer....
"I'm going to marry her, Jack," Bill sighed, content. "Mark my words, the next time we dock in England I will make that girl mine."
"Oh I'll mark them alright," Jack said under his breath. "If only to feed them to you later." He hurried over to Saunders, a bounce in his step. "Well?"
"The ship left the Spanish port a few days ago," Saunders smiled widely. "It'll be coming our way in a few hours." He turned to the rest of the waiting crew and raised his voice. "Gentlemen, I believe we have a whole ship full of gold, waiting for us!"
The crewmen shouted their agreement and started pouring onto the Pearl. Jack made to board the ship when Saunders held him back.
"Not you, Jack," Saunders said apologetically. "You have to stay here."
"What?" Jack asked, surprised and angered. He folded his arms across his chest and stared at his Captain. "Why not?"
"Because- you've got the least Pirate training among us," Saunders explained slowly. "And we need some men on shore, to keep a look out, make sure everything goes smoothly."
"Exactly WHAT do you think I'll accomplish on shore all by me onesie?" Jack asked furiously. "I can hold my own, CAPTAIN, you need not worry on my account."
"I know you can fight, Jack," Saunders shook his head sadly. "But only in theory, in practice. This is serious- we're commandeering a Royal Navy vessel, everything must work like clockwork. I have fought along side every single one of these men on board. Besides, it's not just you, Shortie and Tony, Benny, and Jimmy Left Eye are also keeping watch."
Jack scrutinized his companions on shore. "You mean to tell me you're leaving me with the little lad, the midget, the brainless giant and a half blind man?" Jack raised his voice and received glares from said men. "Are we going to start an act? Will we make our enemies laugh to death?!"
"I knew you'd take it in stride," Saunders grinned tightly. "Because you know that as long as I'm the Captain, I get to call the shots." He looked at Jack warningly.
"Aye, aye CAPTAIN." Jack pronounced heatedly and half saluted, before turning on his heals and storming away.
"Let's go!" Saunders yelled and the Pearl set to sail. Jack looked at them longingly, before kicking the sand angrily. He sat down crossly and watched as they sailed away.
"Jack!" Shortie cried and woke up the sleeping man. "Wake up! We've got trouble!"
Jack was about to yell at the boy for waking him up, when his mind registered the word "trouble". "Trouble? What do you mean trouble?"
"Benny saw a Spanish Ship on the horizon, heading for the Pearl and the Gold ship." Shortie said worriedly. "Tony thinks it might be an ambush- the Pearl can't possibly defend against both ships!"
Jack jumped to his feet and looked in the direction of the ship. "This is not good..." He muttered to himself.
"What are we to do, Jack?" Shortie asked, his voice cracking.
"Why ask me?" Jack answered briskly, still feeling resentment for being left behind.
"Be-because the Captain put you in charge!" Shortie nearly yelled, his panic evident in his voice.
"Lucky me," Jack mumbled, as he quickly formed a plan. "Shortie- go get Tony and steal us a boat. The two of you are small enough, perhaps they won't notice you." Shortie nodded his head and started running to where the others were. "Oh, Shortie?"
"Yes, Jack?" Shortie stopped short and turned around quickly.
"Can you swim?"
"Captain!" One of the crew called to Javier Gonzales. "There's a boy in the water- it looks like he's drowning!"
Javier Gonzales walked briskly to the crewman and looked at where he pointed. There was a young boy, holding onto a paddle, and trying desperately to keep his head over water. He yelled to them for help and went under several times, only to struggle to come up again.
"Man overboard!" Captain Gonzales yelled, as the men hurried over with ropes to pull the boy in. The rest of the officers came over to check what the commotion was all about, gathering on one side of the ship.
Exactly what Jack Sparrow planned. He whispered to Tony Benny and Jimmy Left Eye to keep quiet, as they climbed the ropes on the other side of the ship. They would need the element of surprise, considering they were outnumbered. He popped his head over the side of the ship, and watched as the men pulled Shortie out of the water- looking unconscious. Good Lad.
He crept onboard, his men flanking the crew. He pulled out his sword regretfully. He did not want to take a life, but he knew that it was his or theirs, and he much preferred it to be theirs. They had to take out as many as they could quietly, before drawing the rest of the crew's attention. He signaled to his men, and they each crept up behind an officer, covered his mouth, slit his throat and pulled him back. The managed to take out two rows of men this way, before someone noticed and yelled:
"Captain- we're being attacked!"
Javier Gonzales looked up from where he was crouching near the boy and drew his sword. "Pirates!" He yelled, as Jack and his men attacked them, each taking on around four men.
"Left- on your right!" Benny warned Jimmy, as he swung his sword wildly about, and punched anyone stupid enough to come near his mighty fists. Tony ducked under the swinging swords, bit the crew's legs and even rolled in a ball to knock some of them down. Jack laughed shortly at his unusual companions and turned back to his own fight.
Javier tried to stand and defend, but he fell face down on the hard deck, his sword scattering in front of him. He looked behind and saw that boy they "rescued", grabbing his feet and taking out a knife from his soaked pants. Javier cursed him silently, before kicking out hard with his legs, sending the boy sprawling backwards. He grabbed his sword and spun around- sticking it into his chest. The boy's eyes widened in surprise, before he collapsed, his eyes wide and blank.
"Shortie!" Jack cried, as he watched what happened. He was at the helm, fighting off three crewmen and losing. He leaned over the helm, to try and stab them, keeping the helm between them. He lost his footing and fell back, pulling the helm in his direction. The mast swung over and knocked the men down with such a force; you could hear their heads cracking.
"That's interesting," Jack commented, and filed it away in his mind. He jumped down and watched as the mast continued to travel- to where Benny was, cracking people's skulls together with a smile as if he received a present he really wanted. "Look-"
Benny turned his head and gaped stupidly as the mast came near. He tried to block it with his arms, but it swung into him, taking him with it, over the waters.
"Hang on!" He said to Benny. He looked at the helm and pulled it forcefully to the opposite direction, bringing Benny back onboard, panting.
"Do not give up!" Javier said to his men. "Better to die than to surrender the ship to Pirates!" He looked over at Jack and an evil smile spread across his face. "That one- the leader, he's mine."
Jack glanced over, smiled toothily and bowed. "Jack Sparrow."
"Captain Javier Gonzales and the last man you will see!" Javier said as he rushed at him. Jack rolled his eyes- that was such a line!
"I wouldn't mind seeing only women for the rest of my life," Jack replied, as they brandished swords. He looked around and noticed that Benny, Tony and Jimmy Left Eye were handling the situation- the men of the crew apparently did not agree with their Captain and were being tied up. This one was for the kicks.
"You killed Shortie," he said acidly, trying to build up his anger and to unsettle the Captain at the same time. "He was just a lad."
"I saved him from a life of Piracy, you can say I did him a favor," Javier said, shrugging. He swung at Jack, who ducked low and kicked out Javier's legs from under him. The man was better with a sword than Jack, but not as quick on his feet.
"Jack!" Tony said, as he kicked an officer in the side. "We've commandeered the ship."
"Keep it on course for the Pearl," Jack yelled in between blows, nearly losing his head when his concentration swiveled. He could feel a plan forming in his mind, and smiled.
"You will never reach it alive," Javier warned darkly, a bit out of breath. Jack ignored the comment and they continued to fence, with everyone else, except for Jimmy, who was at the helm, watching expectantly. Tony took it upon himself to cheer Jack on, and Benny made sure the ropes around the crew were secure enough.
Javier smiled to himself, gloating. Jack appeared to be losing. He was being pushed backwards, spun in circles and losing ground quickly. But that annoying smile, that smug smile was still plastered on his face.
"Give up, Sparrow and I'll make your death and swift one," Javier said grinning as slashed at the Pirate.
"Thank you kindly for your offer, Captain," Jack said, pretending to consider. "But I think not. Jimmy- LEFT NOW!" Jimmy swung the helm left and the mast came crashing towards them. Both men ducked and Javier was about to laugh, when he felt his feet being pulled from under him and he was pulled backwards on deck, bumping into buckets and dead corpses, until he swung upside down, over the waves. He tried to look up and saw that there was a rope tied around his right ankle. Damn that Pirate!
Jack bowed to Javier and put his sword away, his gaze sweeping past Shortie (though he wished he knew the lad's real name...) and the rest of the dead men.
"We don't have time to get rid of the bodies- hide them," Jack ordered.
"What about the prisoners?" Benny asked, as he started to carry bodies away.
"I say we kill them- leave no witnesses!" Tony said, glaring at the prisoners.
"We lower them to our boat, if needed then two," Jack said, as he helped carry bodies to the quarters. He tried not to vomit from the smell and sight in front of him, but was resigned to it. After all, he caused it.
"You're letting them live?" Tony asked, shocked, as he stood in Jack's way, warningly. Or supposed to be warningly, considering he reached Jack's waist.
"Yes, we're letting them live," Jack said tiredly. All he wanted now was to sleep on board the Pearl again, to feel the waves lightly cradling him to sleep...
"They'd kill us the first chance they'd get!" Tony argued, not backing down. "Why should we-"
"Because we're not like them, are we?" Jack sneered, and pushed past Tony. "We've killed enough men today."
"So what would half a dozen more mean?" Tony challenged. Jimmy and Benny watched the argument intently, knowing Jack's authority was being questioned.
"Listen to me," Jack lowered his voice, his eyes hardening. Tony tried not to seem affected, but truth me told, he never saw Jack this.... Deadly before.
"I am in charge here, Savvy? And I say, we lower them to the boats, leave them here and go help our Captain. Do we have a problem?"
"No," Tony said savagely.
"Good," Jack smiled, suddenly brightening up, as he patted him on the shoulder. "Let's hurry then, shall we?"
"SPARROW!"
Jack sighed and decided to ignore the humiliated Captain. He continued his task and soon they finished clearing away the bodies.
"JACK SPARROW! THIS ISN'T OVER!"
"It's over, Mate." Jack shook his head and looked up at the man. "Just let it go."
"Never!" He yelled, his face reddened from the blood flow, making him seem even angrier. "I swear, that as long as I live I will not rest, I will not drink, I will not eat until I have your head in a jar in my quarters!"
"Suit yourself," Jack shrugged. "But I think you'll die of starvation and fatigue long before we meet again." He drew out his sword and prepared to let him drop into the ocean.
"It won't work!" Javier yelled with a laugh. "They'll recognize the moment you approach that you are not from the Spanish Navy, you'll never touch our gold!"
Jack seemed to pause for a moment, before nodding. "You're right, thanks." He turned to his men. "Release the prisoners and undress them."
"What?" Tony asked.
"We'll get closer if we look like the Spanish Navy," Jack said tersely, and looked at Javier. "Thank you for the sound advice, we appreciate the help."
"Why you-"
Jack cut the rope and the Captain fell into the waters below. He grabbed the uniform offered to him and secretly regretted not being able to take Gonzales'. But he would put up too much of a fight, and might resent Jack even more. This way, he might just forget about him and the whole thing will blow over. They lowered the crew- now in their pants and vests- into the boats, and set off to help the Pearl.
Hand over the gold and no one needs to get hurt," Captain Saunders said lightly, as he boarded the Spanish ship. It was no match for the Pearl and so the chase was short. Now it was only a matter of getting rid of the crew...
"Never!" The Captain said, as he drew his weapon. Saunders sighed- must they always be so dramatic?
"Have it your way," Saunders shrugged as he drew his sword. He could feel the aching in his muscles (no doubt he'd be feeling it even more in the morning) and the tension in his back, the unsteady grasp on the sword- but he didn't care. Sure, he was getting old, but he still had it in him! He could take down any man here, including this loud and brash younger Captain. What that Captain didn't know, Saunders already managed to forget and he's been in the business long enough. He felt young now, while he was dueling, and defeating this younger man. He felt more alive than he'd felt in ages, and was getting cocky. This was easy, perhaps a little too easy...
"Ah, right on time," The younger Captain smiled, as he looked over Saunders' shoulder. Saunders swung at him and glanced behind, only to see a Royal Spanish Navy ship sailing towards them.
"Help is on its way!" The Captain yelled to his cheering men, as he turned and raised his eyebrow at Saunders. "You didn't REALLY expect us not to have a backup plan, did you?"
Saunders didn't answer, as his mouth dried up, though he continued to slash and to stab, his heart wasn't really into it. A backup plan, of course. It was a set up, the gold was an easy target for Pirate Ships, they had to have some protection...
"Give it up now, and we'll send you to the galley," The Captain said, a grin on his face. "That ship belongs to Captain Javier Gonzales- perhaps you've heard of him. Believe me, death by hanging would be more merciful than what he usually hands out to Pirates. You see, he has this strange hatred towards your kind..."
The ship came closer and closer, and Saunders could see the Spanish officers on deck- a tall and bulky man, an old and stooping one, an average looking one and-
Was that a dog? There was something small fighting against the fabric of the uniform... A very familiar form...
"Well?" The Captain said, a bit disappointed. "Alright, but I did give you a fair shot."
"Permission to come onboard, Captain!" A lyrical voice called from the ship.
The Captain smirked. "Permission-"
"Permission Granted!" Saunders sighed with relief, as Jack, Benny, Tony (the little form fighting with his over sized uniform) and Jimmy Left Eye jumped on board and attacked.
"Jack!" Saunders smiled, as he delivered a disabling blow to the shocked Captain. "I thought I told you to stay on shore?"
"Aye, you may have," Jack smiled, as he spotted Bill being surrounded. He hurried over and the two of them fought back-to-back. He grabbed an edge of rope and Bill grabbed the other and the two of them ran and knocked over a row of officers.
"Am I glad to see you!" Bill said happily, once they defeated the crew and tied them up. Bill looked at Jack more closely, and then at the tripping Tony (he STILL could not manage the uniform), Benny with his pants reaching just below his knees and his shirt two sizes two small, and at Jimmy. "Why- "
"It's a long story." Jack said, as he rested on the railing.
"The best tales are," Saunders said, as he joined them. He could feel the fatigue in his bones, and so he allowed the other men the dubious pleasure of transferring the heavy gold to the ship.
"Well, we saw you were in trouble, so we commandeered a ship and came to the rescue," Jack said proudly, that smug feeling surfacing. He enjoyed the look of respect he received from the two of them, and was delighted with the thought that they left HIM on shore with the rest of the circus, but in the end HE saved the day and the gold. HE. Jack Sparrow.
"Where's Shortie?" Bill asked, suddenly remembering that that yapping little clout was missing. He probably got lost somewhere, or knocked himself unconscious.
"Dead," Jack said in a mixture of sadness and hatred. "Captain Javier Gonzales killed him."
"I've heard of him!" Bill said, snapping his fingers. "Ever since he became Captain of his ship he's been hunting down Pirates and killing them, very efficiently."
"Great," Jack rolled his eyes. "He's got my name in that little black book of his. You don't suppose he'll forgive and forget, do you?"
"No," Saunders said, wiping sweat off his forehead and blood off his sword. "Something tells me that's not the end of THAT story..."
~~~
"Is it the end of the story?" One kid asked, his eyes bright and wondering, but slightly disappointed.
"Well, of THAT story, yes." Jack said, nodding. He loved telling children stories- they weren't interested in whether or not it REALLY happened and wouldn't ask silly questions, like "how did he get the rope to tie the sea turtles with". The more it was magnificent and incredible, the more they liked it, whether it was real or made up. The perfect audience for Jack Sparrow.
"Tell us another, tell us another!" The children chanted around him, as he settled into his chair, ready to embark on another one of his famous tales.
*
""It shouldn't be taking her this long," Beth said worriedly, as she looked at the door. "She should be back by now, how long does it take to get fire wood from the shed?"
Elizabeth opened her mouth to respond, but the door burst open and Clara fell in, shaking.
"Clara!" Beth cried, and hurried over to her. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine, mother." Clara said, after she caught her breath. "I saw him!"
"You saw who?"
"HIM," Clara whispered. "The Headless Horseman!"
"Are you sure it was him?" Will asked, sharing a worried glance with Elizabeth.
"I'm positive, it was... It was hideous." She shuddered from the rain or the cold or perhaps shock. Perhaps all of the above.
"Where did you see him?" Elizabeth asked, as Beth drew a blanket around her daughter.
"He was riding through the forest, heading into town- through the old grave yard." Clara said, as she tried to warm up. "He brushed right past me, it was like a cold breeze seized my chest..." Her eyes suddenly widened and she grabbed Elizabeth's hand. "I heard voices- it was Mary and Katrina Van Brunt! I think he was heading towards them!"
"We'd better go help them," Will said urgently, as he and Elizabeth opened the door.
"We have a friend- Captain Jack Sparrow? He should still be at the Inn-"
"I'll warn him," Clara said, nodding. "I'll tell him where you went."
"Thank you," Elizabeth smiled gratefully.
"I'm going with you," Beth said, as she gathered some herbs and potions. "You might need a physician."
Will nodded and the four left the small cottage, as she rain intensified.
A lone figure sat on his horse in the middle of the graveyard, as if waiting for something. There were voices approaching- angry voices, two female voices arguing with one another. Had he had a head, it would probably be tilted sideways in a curious gesture.
His black steed neighed furiously, sensing blood. He gathered the reins between his hands and with one quick motion, he and his horse flew forward, cutting through the air. The rain made the ground muddy, but the horse did not slip nor pause. There was no rest for the wicked, no pause for the undead. Not until he completed his task, not until he regained his head. Only then could he finally rest and be damned for all eternity for his sins. But in order to get his head, he had to take others. He received a name from his Master, a person doomed to death, by the end of the night.
He rode forward like a storm, sweeping through the town, unstoppable. In the sky thunder struck, followed closely by lightening and the thick air smothered any living soul outside. The stumping of the horse's hooves echoed through the empty streets as he headed for his target.
*END PART 7*
Author's Note:
Sorry it took so long, my computer had viruses and so I had no computer for two weeks! I've been writing this at school and now at home, but then I had no Internet!
Katana- Thanks a bunch! Saying that my fiction is believable is probably one of the greatest compliments you can give an author. I completely agree- Jack, sorry CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow is the most brilliant character ever and I am humbled just to try and make up a background story! Johnny Depp deserves an Oscar not only for this but a lifetime achievement award! It took me a whole to understand what you meant about the branding scene and you are right, it would make sense to make him more believable as a pirate, but I do not think Saunders would go so far. Also I like to stay as true to cannon and reality as I can, which is hard considering I know nothing about Pirates, ships and the era. But I do try and I do correct when I made a mistake.
IST- I am glad you are (sorry, cannot use apostrophes) interested in Clara, having the original characters not annoying is a main objective of mine and to make them as least Mary Sue as possible. I have a sick sense of humor, the whole rat thing just wrote itself but thankfully the name, something I thought of long and hard, worked out alright and true to character. I am not sure if I will have relationships or not, I guess I will wait to see how this develops itself.
Claire- One of the best? I am flattered. I am sorry it came out so late, problems with the computer, you see.
Scarlett Burns- If you are twisted, so am I. That bit with the rat just wrote itself out and before I knew what was going on, poor Will needed a Doctor. I try my best when writing Jack, it is always a pleasure to see that people appreciate my attempts, though I think I will never truly understand Jack Sparrow, I can only try and write him as true as possible. Complex is about any Johnny character, but especially Jack Sparrow!
Emma- *smiles stupidly* You seriously have no idea what it means to me to hear that you love my story, it does brighten up my day, even though thankfully I have reached a point when I can take criticism in stride as well.
Acacia Jules- Thank you for your comment, I immediately went back and changed it. I know absolutely nothing of piracy, but you have inspired me to try and find a story behind the Eastern Indian Trading company and Jack Sparrow....
Jackie- Too many superlatives for one humble writer. I am just kidding, bring them on! Sorry it took so long, will try and update sooner!
Ivy
Will and Elizabeth shared a private smile, thinking of the one person who fits that bill. However, they very much doubted Jack Sparrow would be caught outside in this weather. No, he was probably still in the Inn, warming up with some rum and company. Elizabeth wrapped her light jacket around herself tightly. It was a good thing she was smart enough to throw on a warmer jacket over her nightgown, before she rushed her husband over. Now that she was stuck at the Killians' residency, she felt very self- conscious about how inappropriately she was dressed.
"Where's Mr. Killian?" Will asked after a prolonged silence. Beth Killian was pouring them all a second serving of soup, and preparing dinner for them. She paused for a moment, before saying quietly:
"There is no Mr. Killian."
"I'm sorry," Will said quickly. "I didn't mean to pry-"
"It's quite alright." Beth smiled tightly, the polite smile not quite reaching her eyes. "You were curious and it was an innocent question, there's nothing to apologize for."
"Where are you from?" Clara changed the subject, obviously a touchy one.
"I was born and raised in England, but when I was a lad I moved to Port Royal- where Elizabeth is from," Will explained, smiling.
"It's so far away," Clara marveled. "I bet it takes months to get there!"
"About a month," Elizabeth smiled, remembering the journey here. There were some precious moments with Will she would not trade for the world. It was hard for her to admit to it, but there were moments when she spoke with Jack that she will not quickly forget, either. When he wanted to be, he could be a very good friend to her, and to Will of course. She wondered if he had any close friends, beside Bootstrap Bill and apparently Captain Saunders. The life of a Pirate, especially a Captain can be very lonely- he must have a difficult time trusting people, which is understandable considering his past...
"I wish to travel some day," Clara said with shining eyes. "To leave Sleepy Hollow and see the world..." She finished with a sigh, as a sad smile crossed her pretty features. "It is a nice fantasy."
"I'm sure once we're done here, we could help you get wherever you're going," Elizabeth said, before she realized what she was saying. She met Will's shake of the head with a stubborn firmness. "I'll have to talk with our Captain, but if he doesn't agree, I'm sure-"
"Thank you, Mrs. Turner," Clara interrupted her. "You're quite kind, but I do not have the money to sail away from here, else I would have left ages ago."
"It's Elizabeth, Mrs. Turner makes me feel like an old maiden," Elizabeth smiled brilliantly. She made up her mind that when they solve the case (which she did not doubt for a moment) she would give Clara a small portion of her reward money- just enough to get her started. She knew what it was like to feel trapped in one place.
Clara returned the smile with a blush. "Elizabeth, then. You're very generous, considering you hardly know me- most people aren't that trusting." They settled into a comfortable silence, waiting for the meal to be ready. Then both Elizabeth and Will thought about Elizabeth's cooking, and burst into laughter.
Beth and Clara stared at the laughing couple with a worried expression.
"Exactly what HERBS did you give him, mother?" Clara asked smirking.
Beth glared at her cheeky daughter. "Not any of THOSE herbs, I'm telling you that. Perhaps they have a fever?"
"We're alright," Elizabeth said between laughs, trying to remember the last time she laughed so hard. "We were just sharing a FOND memory."
"Newly weds," Beth said smiling. "I remember what that was like, I was married myself once, a long time ago." She got up and went to check on the food, which was nearly ready. Clara looked out the window at the dark and morbid sky, with storm clouds drifting above threateningly. The rain pummeled stronger, accompanied by lightening and thunder.
"We haven't had weather this bad in weeks." Clara said frowning. "That's odd, the last time we had this type of weather-" She stopped short, her mind catching up with her mouth.
"That last time you have this type of weather, what?" Will asked, dreading the answer. She turned to him and the lightning, giving it a stone-cold bluish tint, illuminated her face. Her eyes were dark and foreboding.
"Someone was murdered."
*
"Mr. Sparrow, sir- have you seen the silverware?" Young Masbath said timidly, as he approached the pirate. He heard some stories about the legendary Captain Jack Sparrow- how he escaped the Island he was trapped on, how he raided an entire village without firing a single shot... Wondrous stories that seemed far fetched, to say the least. He may have been thirteen years old, but he was not a gullible child.
At first glance there was nothing special about this Pirate- he seemed like any swaggering, drunk buccaneer Masbath heard of from campfire stories. But upon closer inspection, one noticed that keen gleam in his dark eyes, that calculating and calm look, behind the crazy facade, if indeed it was a facade. It was like the shrewd intellect of a cat, sizing up its prey while pretending to be asleep or weak, luring it closer. He just knew that in a moment of danger or advantage, this sea cat would leap up and attack. Which made it all the more difficult to come out and accuse HIM- the unstoppable and ruthless Jack Sparrow, of... Stealing spoons and forks.
"I beg your pardon?" Jack asked in a mixture of amusement and confusion, his eyebrows spiking up. He smiled lazily at the boy, while he continued to sit on his chain near the bar. The image of a large cat was still firm in Masbath's mind, and he nearly looked around for a long swishing tail. Masbath cleared his throat, suddenly feeling that this was not a good idea.
"Our Silverware, sir. It's gone missing and we need it for the party tonight, you see..." His voice faltered and he could feel perspiration beginning to bead on his forehead and on his hands. It was just like speaking up in Master Connolly's classes- when he felt everyone's eyes on him...
Right now there were only one pair of eyes on him, but they sent so many tremors and chills down his spine, it was suffice in making him suddenly fearful. The dark eyes scrutinized him for a moment, before they relaxed into their amused state.
"I see," Jack smiled thinly. "And what makes you think I would know where the missing artifacts are?"
"I never said you knew or nothing," Masbath stuttered quickly. "I just asked, that's all." After a moment's hesitation he took a deep breath and squared his shoulders and mumbled without stopping. "I wouldn't be asking you, except there's the party, see, and we need the silverware for dinner. We can't really have a dinner without them and my father is going mad with concern. It would mean a lot of money for us, if it all goes well and Mrs. Van Brunt will be coming back anytime now with the guests-"
"How long can you go without breathing?" Jack marveled curiously.
"A fairly long time, sir." Masbath replied shakily.
"Interesting," Jack categorized that information in his head and addressed the matter at hand. "What's your name, boy?"
"Masbath, sir."
"Your Christian name," Jack corrected easily.
"Frederick," Masbath said uncomfortably. He wondered what the pirate would do to him for accusing him of theft- would he disembowel him? Make him walk the plank? Would he get to see the inside of the Black Pearl in order to actually WALK the plank...?
"Well, Freddy," Jack said, his tone serious and his eyes veiled. "It is a grave offense to accuse a Pirate." Masbath's shoulders slumped and his gaze was cast downwards. "But it also takes great guts- I like that." Jack smiled at him in a good mood.
Masbath couldn't believe his good fortune- he wasn't going to die a painful death AND the infamous pirate himself was complimenting him? Boy the kids at school would never believe him! Perhaps he could take him with him, just to prove himself. He shook the thought away, deciding Jack Sparrow was not fit in a school and would probably scare half of them to death.
"What made you think it was me?" Jack asked curiously, leaning on one elbow and grabbing a depressed grape from a basket. Or as some called them: Raisins.
"I saw you the other day, "borrowing" them." Masbath was careful not to offend the pirate and give him room to return the silverware. Jack's good mood could swiftly change at any minute, he knew this from countless hours he spent working at his father's Inn. One moment they were merry and joyful drunks, the next he had to try and stop the ensuing fist fight. It helped him gain caution and insight into the adult mind, however, and that was not such a bad thing.
"Nay, I didn't borrow them, I stole them- there's a marginal difference." Jack nodded his head as he jumped on his feet. "But I do think I have an adequate replacement for them." He started walking outside, in the pouring rain. Masbath stared after him, before grabbing a lantern and rushing after him.
"Where are we going?" He asked Jack curiously, not sure whether the pirate would dismiss him or allow him to tag along.
"To my Beauty," Jack smiled. It tore at him to be parted from her for so long, he would use any excuse to return to her. He didn't think it odd at all, considering he spent ten long years separated from her, longing for her.
Masbath's eyes sparkled, when he realized what Jack was talking about. "We're going onboard the Black Pearl?" He asked in wonder- no one was going to believe him!
"No," Jack said slowly. "I'M going onboard the Black Pearl, YOU are staying outside and waiting for me." He saw the disappointed look on the youth's face and so he added: "If you'll be a good lad, in the morning I'll let you wax her outer haul for me." It managed to brighten up the boy and Jack chuckled, thinking how easy it was to satisfy children. He had to admit he missed that slightly, his memory of his teaching days somewhat obscure. Children were simply sweet, gullible and eager to please.
Weren't they?
*
"YOU, boy!" Jonathan Masbath said, as he gripped his son by the collar. He dragged him behind the counter and picked up a shiny metal spoon and shoved it in his face. "Where did THESE come from?" He asked angrily, a dangerous edge to his voice.
Frederick Masbath swallowed hard and stammered. "They're replacements, for the ones that were stol- lost." He said meekly, trying not to look in Jack Sparrow's direction for support. Jack could see that the boy was in for trouble, and so he sauntered over with his usual swagger and spoke up.
"Aye, the boy be right." He said casually. "I couldn't help but notice you were a bit... Short on silverware, so I felt obliged to supply my extra set."
"Why would you feel obliged?" Jonathan said, squinting his eyes disdainfully.
"Because they'll be a party tonight!" Jack said as though it were obvious. "And I love parties! I knew it would ruin the fun, not to have serving pieces, so as a future attendee of said party, I felt it my obligation to accommodate, savvy?"
"Savvy," Jonathan said grudgingly, as he let go of his son. He had his suspicions about the pirate's sudden giving nature, but he had no proof and he WAS a paying costumer and helped him out of this jam... "Thank you, sir." He nearly spat. Jack smiled in return and the doors burst open with the first arrivals.
"And so it begins," Jack mused to himself, as his eyes roamed the newcomers. There were violinists, some middle aged town women, Katrina and a young and pretty woman who had the uncanny resemblance to...
Brom Bones.
Jack scrutinized her more closely. This must be Ms. Van Brunt, Katrina's daughter. She had dark, curly hair that was in sharp contrast with her white skin. Her eyes were a softer tone of brown, and right now were looking about in disdain.
"Is this it?" She asked in a huff, looking at the decorations, the Inn, the musicians and finally resting her eyes on Jack Sparrow. She looked him up and down, taking in his clothing and shabby hair. "Are we letting in simply ANYONE from the street? I will not have beggars in my party!"
'Aye, without a doubt- Brom Bone's daughter.' Jack sighed to himself, but took it with stride. He learned long ago not to take anything, including himself (but not the Pearl) too seriously. He plastered a lazy smile on his face and said: "This particular beggar probably has more gold than you have ever dreamed of." He got up and swaggered close to Ms. Van Brunt. She took a step back, but he was in her face and he whispered:
"I'd be careful with that acid tongue, if I were you, Love. Might make a pirate think twice about saving your pretty neck." He pushed her hair back with his fingers, and she drew back and slapped him on the face. Hard.
"Mary!" Katrina said angrily. She was putting the finishing touch on the decorations, when she turned around and saw her daughter slapping Jack. Although she had no doubt he earned it, it was about time her headstrong daughter learned how to act more lady-like. "Apologize to Captain Sparrow this instant!"
"I will not!" Mary nearly shrieked, stumping her feet. "And what is this strange pirate doing here in the first place?"
"He came because of the reward," Katrina said calmly, though she knew she was losing her composure. It was a daily struggle with her daughter, who takes after her father. Unfortunately.
"I will NOT let our money go into the filthy hands of a Pirate!" She said and stormed out.
"Mary!" Katrina said exasperated, as she ran after her, into the rain. Jack watched the exchange with interest, and was grateful he had no children. That he knew of, at any rate. That thought sent a sudden dread coursing through his body, and he prayed to God that he had no rascals running amuck somewhere out there.
Speaking of little rascals...
He watched as a group of a dozen little children, no older than Freddy Masbath came running in, followed at a slower pace by their schoolmaster Connolly. The children were yelling and dancing and running around the place.
'No, no, no!' He thought to himself. 'You cannot have children at a party, they will just end up ruining it!' He glanced wearily at the screaming scoundrels and made up his mind to go upstairs, and wait for Will and Elizabeth to return, before planning out this investigation. The first thing they needed to do was go through the names on the list, and try to find something that connected them all, to find out who their enemies were and who had the strongest motive to kill them. Could the Headless Horseman, had he done it, have motive to kill?
"There ARE Pirates, you idiot." Freddy Masbath was saying. "See that man over there? HE'S CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow! THE Jack Sparrow!"
Jack stared at the boy with pure panic written on his forehead, as all those beady little eyes turned to him, sizing him up. Then, like a wave they all rushed over to him, some only as high as his waist and were chirping and asking questions all at once. Jack got up to leave, but they tugged and tagged and there was no hope for escape. He was surrounded, and he had no other choice other than to surrender.
"I heard he was captive on an Island by cannibals and he escaped on the backs of sea turtles!"
"I heard he carried the same pistol for ten years with one shot and killed the undead Barbosa with it!"
"I heard he IS undead- that's how he never died of thirst, wasn't killed by those skeletons and managed to survive being shot in the chest TWO times!"
"Actually, it's three," Jack pointed out, rather enjoying the admiring attention. A nice crowd was so hard to come by, these days.
"Really?" A little blond haired boy gawked. "Can we see it?"
Jack paused for dramatic effect, before pulling down the top of his shirt, and exposing his right side of the chest. The kids "wowed" and "awed" at the sight of the three small puncture marks in his chest, undoubtedly bullet holes.
"They happened when that Spanish officer came after you," Freddy said, remembering. "The one you humiliated and-"
"Javier Gonzales," Jack nodded gravely. That fella simply wouldn't relent and made his life a living hell for a long time.
"I haven't heard of THAT one," a freckled face red head said, his eyes large and wondering.
"Me neither," a squawky (obviously his voice was changing) blue eyed boy added.
The children looked at each other and turned back to Jack, chanting: "STORY, STORY, STORY, STORY-"
"Oh alright!" Jack nearly shouted with frustration. He was seriously beginning to detest children, with their icky and sticky fingers, big round eyes and demanding nature. "I'll tell you how I met Javier Gonzales, the terror of any Pirate in the seven seas and how I single handedly saved the Black Pearl..."
~ "Alright, out with it!" Jack said annoyed to Bill. They were walking towards the Pearl, after spending almost a week in this God Forsaken town, getting the latest news on the Spanish Ship carrying the gold. During the entire duration, Bill was nothing if not cheerful and.... Blissful, something Jack found completely unnerving.
"Out with what?" Bill asked innocently, that happy goofy smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"Something has made you into this insufferable puppy," Jack said contemptfully.
"It's simple, Jack," Bill grinned at his friend's annoyance and capped him on the shoulder. "I'm in love."
"Ah," Jack said rolling his eyes. "I hear that is not a rare thing for you, mate." Captain Saunders informed Jack that Bill was quite the romantic- he did not sleep with many women, oh no, he fell in love with them. He would come on board after some shore leave, his eyes sparkling and would tell the bored crew about his latest ladylove and how he adored her.
"This time it's different," Bill argued, though he said that phrase many times before, claiming each woman was the love of his life as no other has been. "Christina is different, she's.... Special, like a flower in its-"
"If you start reciting poetry about your lady love I will be forced to throw you overboard," Jack warned, as they neared Saunders and the crew. Thankfully. If Jack had to stand this any longer....
"I'm going to marry her, Jack," Bill sighed, content. "Mark my words, the next time we dock in England I will make that girl mine."
"Oh I'll mark them alright," Jack said under his breath. "If only to feed them to you later." He hurried over to Saunders, a bounce in his step. "Well?"
"The ship left the Spanish port a few days ago," Saunders smiled widely. "It'll be coming our way in a few hours." He turned to the rest of the waiting crew and raised his voice. "Gentlemen, I believe we have a whole ship full of gold, waiting for us!"
The crewmen shouted their agreement and started pouring onto the Pearl. Jack made to board the ship when Saunders held him back.
"Not you, Jack," Saunders said apologetically. "You have to stay here."
"What?" Jack asked, surprised and angered. He folded his arms across his chest and stared at his Captain. "Why not?"
"Because- you've got the least Pirate training among us," Saunders explained slowly. "And we need some men on shore, to keep a look out, make sure everything goes smoothly."
"Exactly WHAT do you think I'll accomplish on shore all by me onesie?" Jack asked furiously. "I can hold my own, CAPTAIN, you need not worry on my account."
"I know you can fight, Jack," Saunders shook his head sadly. "But only in theory, in practice. This is serious- we're commandeering a Royal Navy vessel, everything must work like clockwork. I have fought along side every single one of these men on board. Besides, it's not just you, Shortie and Tony, Benny, and Jimmy Left Eye are also keeping watch."
Jack scrutinized his companions on shore. "You mean to tell me you're leaving me with the little lad, the midget, the brainless giant and a half blind man?" Jack raised his voice and received glares from said men. "Are we going to start an act? Will we make our enemies laugh to death?!"
"I knew you'd take it in stride," Saunders grinned tightly. "Because you know that as long as I'm the Captain, I get to call the shots." He looked at Jack warningly.
"Aye, aye CAPTAIN." Jack pronounced heatedly and half saluted, before turning on his heals and storming away.
"Let's go!" Saunders yelled and the Pearl set to sail. Jack looked at them longingly, before kicking the sand angrily. He sat down crossly and watched as they sailed away.
"Jack!" Shortie cried and woke up the sleeping man. "Wake up! We've got trouble!"
Jack was about to yell at the boy for waking him up, when his mind registered the word "trouble". "Trouble? What do you mean trouble?"
"Benny saw a Spanish Ship on the horizon, heading for the Pearl and the Gold ship." Shortie said worriedly. "Tony thinks it might be an ambush- the Pearl can't possibly defend against both ships!"
Jack jumped to his feet and looked in the direction of the ship. "This is not good..." He muttered to himself.
"What are we to do, Jack?" Shortie asked, his voice cracking.
"Why ask me?" Jack answered briskly, still feeling resentment for being left behind.
"Be-because the Captain put you in charge!" Shortie nearly yelled, his panic evident in his voice.
"Lucky me," Jack mumbled, as he quickly formed a plan. "Shortie- go get Tony and steal us a boat. The two of you are small enough, perhaps they won't notice you." Shortie nodded his head and started running to where the others were. "Oh, Shortie?"
"Yes, Jack?" Shortie stopped short and turned around quickly.
"Can you swim?"
"Captain!" One of the crew called to Javier Gonzales. "There's a boy in the water- it looks like he's drowning!"
Javier Gonzales walked briskly to the crewman and looked at where he pointed. There was a young boy, holding onto a paddle, and trying desperately to keep his head over water. He yelled to them for help and went under several times, only to struggle to come up again.
"Man overboard!" Captain Gonzales yelled, as the men hurried over with ropes to pull the boy in. The rest of the officers came over to check what the commotion was all about, gathering on one side of the ship.
Exactly what Jack Sparrow planned. He whispered to Tony Benny and Jimmy Left Eye to keep quiet, as they climbed the ropes on the other side of the ship. They would need the element of surprise, considering they were outnumbered. He popped his head over the side of the ship, and watched as the men pulled Shortie out of the water- looking unconscious. Good Lad.
He crept onboard, his men flanking the crew. He pulled out his sword regretfully. He did not want to take a life, but he knew that it was his or theirs, and he much preferred it to be theirs. They had to take out as many as they could quietly, before drawing the rest of the crew's attention. He signaled to his men, and they each crept up behind an officer, covered his mouth, slit his throat and pulled him back. The managed to take out two rows of men this way, before someone noticed and yelled:
"Captain- we're being attacked!"
Javier Gonzales looked up from where he was crouching near the boy and drew his sword. "Pirates!" He yelled, as Jack and his men attacked them, each taking on around four men.
"Left- on your right!" Benny warned Jimmy, as he swung his sword wildly about, and punched anyone stupid enough to come near his mighty fists. Tony ducked under the swinging swords, bit the crew's legs and even rolled in a ball to knock some of them down. Jack laughed shortly at his unusual companions and turned back to his own fight.
Javier tried to stand and defend, but he fell face down on the hard deck, his sword scattering in front of him. He looked behind and saw that boy they "rescued", grabbing his feet and taking out a knife from his soaked pants. Javier cursed him silently, before kicking out hard with his legs, sending the boy sprawling backwards. He grabbed his sword and spun around- sticking it into his chest. The boy's eyes widened in surprise, before he collapsed, his eyes wide and blank.
"Shortie!" Jack cried, as he watched what happened. He was at the helm, fighting off three crewmen and losing. He leaned over the helm, to try and stab them, keeping the helm between them. He lost his footing and fell back, pulling the helm in his direction. The mast swung over and knocked the men down with such a force; you could hear their heads cracking.
"That's interesting," Jack commented, and filed it away in his mind. He jumped down and watched as the mast continued to travel- to where Benny was, cracking people's skulls together with a smile as if he received a present he really wanted. "Look-"
Benny turned his head and gaped stupidly as the mast came near. He tried to block it with his arms, but it swung into him, taking him with it, over the waters.
"Hang on!" He said to Benny. He looked at the helm and pulled it forcefully to the opposite direction, bringing Benny back onboard, panting.
"Do not give up!" Javier said to his men. "Better to die than to surrender the ship to Pirates!" He looked over at Jack and an evil smile spread across his face. "That one- the leader, he's mine."
Jack glanced over, smiled toothily and bowed. "Jack Sparrow."
"Captain Javier Gonzales and the last man you will see!" Javier said as he rushed at him. Jack rolled his eyes- that was such a line!
"I wouldn't mind seeing only women for the rest of my life," Jack replied, as they brandished swords. He looked around and noticed that Benny, Tony and Jimmy Left Eye were handling the situation- the men of the crew apparently did not agree with their Captain and were being tied up. This one was for the kicks.
"You killed Shortie," he said acidly, trying to build up his anger and to unsettle the Captain at the same time. "He was just a lad."
"I saved him from a life of Piracy, you can say I did him a favor," Javier said, shrugging. He swung at Jack, who ducked low and kicked out Javier's legs from under him. The man was better with a sword than Jack, but not as quick on his feet.
"Jack!" Tony said, as he kicked an officer in the side. "We've commandeered the ship."
"Keep it on course for the Pearl," Jack yelled in between blows, nearly losing his head when his concentration swiveled. He could feel a plan forming in his mind, and smiled.
"You will never reach it alive," Javier warned darkly, a bit out of breath. Jack ignored the comment and they continued to fence, with everyone else, except for Jimmy, who was at the helm, watching expectantly. Tony took it upon himself to cheer Jack on, and Benny made sure the ropes around the crew were secure enough.
Javier smiled to himself, gloating. Jack appeared to be losing. He was being pushed backwards, spun in circles and losing ground quickly. But that annoying smile, that smug smile was still plastered on his face.
"Give up, Sparrow and I'll make your death and swift one," Javier said grinning as slashed at the Pirate.
"Thank you kindly for your offer, Captain," Jack said, pretending to consider. "But I think not. Jimmy- LEFT NOW!" Jimmy swung the helm left and the mast came crashing towards them. Both men ducked and Javier was about to laugh, when he felt his feet being pulled from under him and he was pulled backwards on deck, bumping into buckets and dead corpses, until he swung upside down, over the waves. He tried to look up and saw that there was a rope tied around his right ankle. Damn that Pirate!
Jack bowed to Javier and put his sword away, his gaze sweeping past Shortie (though he wished he knew the lad's real name...) and the rest of the dead men.
"We don't have time to get rid of the bodies- hide them," Jack ordered.
"What about the prisoners?" Benny asked, as he started to carry bodies away.
"I say we kill them- leave no witnesses!" Tony said, glaring at the prisoners.
"We lower them to our boat, if needed then two," Jack said, as he helped carry bodies to the quarters. He tried not to vomit from the smell and sight in front of him, but was resigned to it. After all, he caused it.
"You're letting them live?" Tony asked, shocked, as he stood in Jack's way, warningly. Or supposed to be warningly, considering he reached Jack's waist.
"Yes, we're letting them live," Jack said tiredly. All he wanted now was to sleep on board the Pearl again, to feel the waves lightly cradling him to sleep...
"They'd kill us the first chance they'd get!" Tony argued, not backing down. "Why should we-"
"Because we're not like them, are we?" Jack sneered, and pushed past Tony. "We've killed enough men today."
"So what would half a dozen more mean?" Tony challenged. Jimmy and Benny watched the argument intently, knowing Jack's authority was being questioned.
"Listen to me," Jack lowered his voice, his eyes hardening. Tony tried not to seem affected, but truth me told, he never saw Jack this.... Deadly before.
"I am in charge here, Savvy? And I say, we lower them to the boats, leave them here and go help our Captain. Do we have a problem?"
"No," Tony said savagely.
"Good," Jack smiled, suddenly brightening up, as he patted him on the shoulder. "Let's hurry then, shall we?"
"SPARROW!"
Jack sighed and decided to ignore the humiliated Captain. He continued his task and soon they finished clearing away the bodies.
"JACK SPARROW! THIS ISN'T OVER!"
"It's over, Mate." Jack shook his head and looked up at the man. "Just let it go."
"Never!" He yelled, his face reddened from the blood flow, making him seem even angrier. "I swear, that as long as I live I will not rest, I will not drink, I will not eat until I have your head in a jar in my quarters!"
"Suit yourself," Jack shrugged. "But I think you'll die of starvation and fatigue long before we meet again." He drew out his sword and prepared to let him drop into the ocean.
"It won't work!" Javier yelled with a laugh. "They'll recognize the moment you approach that you are not from the Spanish Navy, you'll never touch our gold!"
Jack seemed to pause for a moment, before nodding. "You're right, thanks." He turned to his men. "Release the prisoners and undress them."
"What?" Tony asked.
"We'll get closer if we look like the Spanish Navy," Jack said tersely, and looked at Javier. "Thank you for the sound advice, we appreciate the help."
"Why you-"
Jack cut the rope and the Captain fell into the waters below. He grabbed the uniform offered to him and secretly regretted not being able to take Gonzales'. But he would put up too much of a fight, and might resent Jack even more. This way, he might just forget about him and the whole thing will blow over. They lowered the crew- now in their pants and vests- into the boats, and set off to help the Pearl.
Hand over the gold and no one needs to get hurt," Captain Saunders said lightly, as he boarded the Spanish ship. It was no match for the Pearl and so the chase was short. Now it was only a matter of getting rid of the crew...
"Never!" The Captain said, as he drew his weapon. Saunders sighed- must they always be so dramatic?
"Have it your way," Saunders shrugged as he drew his sword. He could feel the aching in his muscles (no doubt he'd be feeling it even more in the morning) and the tension in his back, the unsteady grasp on the sword- but he didn't care. Sure, he was getting old, but he still had it in him! He could take down any man here, including this loud and brash younger Captain. What that Captain didn't know, Saunders already managed to forget and he's been in the business long enough. He felt young now, while he was dueling, and defeating this younger man. He felt more alive than he'd felt in ages, and was getting cocky. This was easy, perhaps a little too easy...
"Ah, right on time," The younger Captain smiled, as he looked over Saunders' shoulder. Saunders swung at him and glanced behind, only to see a Royal Spanish Navy ship sailing towards them.
"Help is on its way!" The Captain yelled to his cheering men, as he turned and raised his eyebrow at Saunders. "You didn't REALLY expect us not to have a backup plan, did you?"
Saunders didn't answer, as his mouth dried up, though he continued to slash and to stab, his heart wasn't really into it. A backup plan, of course. It was a set up, the gold was an easy target for Pirate Ships, they had to have some protection...
"Give it up now, and we'll send you to the galley," The Captain said, a grin on his face. "That ship belongs to Captain Javier Gonzales- perhaps you've heard of him. Believe me, death by hanging would be more merciful than what he usually hands out to Pirates. You see, he has this strange hatred towards your kind..."
The ship came closer and closer, and Saunders could see the Spanish officers on deck- a tall and bulky man, an old and stooping one, an average looking one and-
Was that a dog? There was something small fighting against the fabric of the uniform... A very familiar form...
"Well?" The Captain said, a bit disappointed. "Alright, but I did give you a fair shot."
"Permission to come onboard, Captain!" A lyrical voice called from the ship.
The Captain smirked. "Permission-"
"Permission Granted!" Saunders sighed with relief, as Jack, Benny, Tony (the little form fighting with his over sized uniform) and Jimmy Left Eye jumped on board and attacked.
"Jack!" Saunders smiled, as he delivered a disabling blow to the shocked Captain. "I thought I told you to stay on shore?"
"Aye, you may have," Jack smiled, as he spotted Bill being surrounded. He hurried over and the two of them fought back-to-back. He grabbed an edge of rope and Bill grabbed the other and the two of them ran and knocked over a row of officers.
"Am I glad to see you!" Bill said happily, once they defeated the crew and tied them up. Bill looked at Jack more closely, and then at the tripping Tony (he STILL could not manage the uniform), Benny with his pants reaching just below his knees and his shirt two sizes two small, and at Jimmy. "Why- "
"It's a long story." Jack said, as he rested on the railing.
"The best tales are," Saunders said, as he joined them. He could feel the fatigue in his bones, and so he allowed the other men the dubious pleasure of transferring the heavy gold to the ship.
"Well, we saw you were in trouble, so we commandeered a ship and came to the rescue," Jack said proudly, that smug feeling surfacing. He enjoyed the look of respect he received from the two of them, and was delighted with the thought that they left HIM on shore with the rest of the circus, but in the end HE saved the day and the gold. HE. Jack Sparrow.
"Where's Shortie?" Bill asked, suddenly remembering that that yapping little clout was missing. He probably got lost somewhere, or knocked himself unconscious.
"Dead," Jack said in a mixture of sadness and hatred. "Captain Javier Gonzales killed him."
"I've heard of him!" Bill said, snapping his fingers. "Ever since he became Captain of his ship he's been hunting down Pirates and killing them, very efficiently."
"Great," Jack rolled his eyes. "He's got my name in that little black book of his. You don't suppose he'll forgive and forget, do you?"
"No," Saunders said, wiping sweat off his forehead and blood off his sword. "Something tells me that's not the end of THAT story..."
~~~
"Is it the end of the story?" One kid asked, his eyes bright and wondering, but slightly disappointed.
"Well, of THAT story, yes." Jack said, nodding. He loved telling children stories- they weren't interested in whether or not it REALLY happened and wouldn't ask silly questions, like "how did he get the rope to tie the sea turtles with". The more it was magnificent and incredible, the more they liked it, whether it was real or made up. The perfect audience for Jack Sparrow.
"Tell us another, tell us another!" The children chanted around him, as he settled into his chair, ready to embark on another one of his famous tales.
*
""It shouldn't be taking her this long," Beth said worriedly, as she looked at the door. "She should be back by now, how long does it take to get fire wood from the shed?"
Elizabeth opened her mouth to respond, but the door burst open and Clara fell in, shaking.
"Clara!" Beth cried, and hurried over to her. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine, mother." Clara said, after she caught her breath. "I saw him!"
"You saw who?"
"HIM," Clara whispered. "The Headless Horseman!"
"Are you sure it was him?" Will asked, sharing a worried glance with Elizabeth.
"I'm positive, it was... It was hideous." She shuddered from the rain or the cold or perhaps shock. Perhaps all of the above.
"Where did you see him?" Elizabeth asked, as Beth drew a blanket around her daughter.
"He was riding through the forest, heading into town- through the old grave yard." Clara said, as she tried to warm up. "He brushed right past me, it was like a cold breeze seized my chest..." Her eyes suddenly widened and she grabbed Elizabeth's hand. "I heard voices- it was Mary and Katrina Van Brunt! I think he was heading towards them!"
"We'd better go help them," Will said urgently, as he and Elizabeth opened the door.
"We have a friend- Captain Jack Sparrow? He should still be at the Inn-"
"I'll warn him," Clara said, nodding. "I'll tell him where you went."
"Thank you," Elizabeth smiled gratefully.
"I'm going with you," Beth said, as she gathered some herbs and potions. "You might need a physician."
Will nodded and the four left the small cottage, as she rain intensified.
A lone figure sat on his horse in the middle of the graveyard, as if waiting for something. There were voices approaching- angry voices, two female voices arguing with one another. Had he had a head, it would probably be tilted sideways in a curious gesture.
His black steed neighed furiously, sensing blood. He gathered the reins between his hands and with one quick motion, he and his horse flew forward, cutting through the air. The rain made the ground muddy, but the horse did not slip nor pause. There was no rest for the wicked, no pause for the undead. Not until he completed his task, not until he regained his head. Only then could he finally rest and be damned for all eternity for his sins. But in order to get his head, he had to take others. He received a name from his Master, a person doomed to death, by the end of the night.
He rode forward like a storm, sweeping through the town, unstoppable. In the sky thunder struck, followed closely by lightening and the thick air smothered any living soul outside. The stumping of the horse's hooves echoed through the empty streets as he headed for his target.
*END PART 7*
Author's Note:
Sorry it took so long, my computer had viruses and so I had no computer for two weeks! I've been writing this at school and now at home, but then I had no Internet!
Katana- Thanks a bunch! Saying that my fiction is believable is probably one of the greatest compliments you can give an author. I completely agree- Jack, sorry CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow is the most brilliant character ever and I am humbled just to try and make up a background story! Johnny Depp deserves an Oscar not only for this but a lifetime achievement award! It took me a whole to understand what you meant about the branding scene and you are right, it would make sense to make him more believable as a pirate, but I do not think Saunders would go so far. Also I like to stay as true to cannon and reality as I can, which is hard considering I know nothing about Pirates, ships and the era. But I do try and I do correct when I made a mistake.
IST- I am glad you are (sorry, cannot use apostrophes) interested in Clara, having the original characters not annoying is a main objective of mine and to make them as least Mary Sue as possible. I have a sick sense of humor, the whole rat thing just wrote itself but thankfully the name, something I thought of long and hard, worked out alright and true to character. I am not sure if I will have relationships or not, I guess I will wait to see how this develops itself.
Claire- One of the best? I am flattered. I am sorry it came out so late, problems with the computer, you see.
Scarlett Burns- If you are twisted, so am I. That bit with the rat just wrote itself out and before I knew what was going on, poor Will needed a Doctor. I try my best when writing Jack, it is always a pleasure to see that people appreciate my attempts, though I think I will never truly understand Jack Sparrow, I can only try and write him as true as possible. Complex is about any Johnny character, but especially Jack Sparrow!
Emma- *smiles stupidly* You seriously have no idea what it means to me to hear that you love my story, it does brighten up my day, even though thankfully I have reached a point when I can take criticism in stride as well.
Acacia Jules- Thank you for your comment, I immediately went back and changed it. I know absolutely nothing of piracy, but you have inspired me to try and find a story behind the Eastern Indian Trading company and Jack Sparrow....
Jackie- Too many superlatives for one humble writer. I am just kidding, bring them on! Sorry it took so long, will try and update sooner!
Ivy