Aye Show Me The Horizon

by Lovely Raven Sparrow

[COMPLETE] Jack is faceing death but has much to show for it. My story is full of adventure, love, loyalty and humor. You will love it! It takes place 5 years after Jack's escape. Some parts are very sad and some are very funny. Please read, review and

19. Is There A Difference between Nice and G...

Disclaimer: Jack still has a contract with Disney.

Is there a difference between Nice and Good?

I was lying in a semi conscious state. I could feel the pain in my stomach and I could hear voices fading in and out. I felt something soft under me head and body. I could only assume I was lying on a bed. I could hear the voices more clear now and I could feel hands touching me but I could not get me eyes open or my mouth open to speak. Then I heard the familiar voice of Jem. I wanted to open my eyes so bad and to get away from her but the harder I tried to move the more convinced I was that I was going nowhere.

"You know I told you both not to damage the merchandise. You will both be punished for this and it won't do ya any good to hide unless you choose to jump ship now." I felt Jem's touch on my stomach. "By looking over Captain Sparrow, I would say he has seen many a battle. It is a shame such a beautiful body such as his has so many scars and wounds and Jeffery had to add to the mix." I could fell her fingers probing for the bullet and then she stopped.

"You, Tom and Matthew, get out of here and take Jeffery's garbage with you. Throw his personal belonging over board but leave the treasures here. As you can see he couldn't be trusted." She was gazing on several chests of silver and gold coins and even more chests full of jewels. "Look at all this loot he has stashed in here plus the enormous amount of food, clothing and rum. I'd say he had no intentions of sharing any of this booty with the crew. I'm surprised we don't have rats in here. He was a despicable being let alone Captain." I heard a lot of loud noises and I could only conclude she was throwing things around the room. Then it became quiet as someone new came into the room.

"Maggie you simple girl, where have you been? Tend to Captain Sparrow's wound. Remove the bullet and clean it up well. I don't want him dying on me. I have big plans for him and I don't want any funny business from you. Do you understand?"

I heard another female voice, which appeared to have a thick accent. "Yes, Miss Barbossa. I will take care of Mr. Sparrow in the custom you want me to and I won't do anything else Miss Barbossa."

"That is Captain. Captain Barbossa if you please." I couldn't believe I heard her say that. I remember she slapped me when I said it to her. Before Maggie could get to me Jem spoke again and I heard the sounds of people moving.

"First of all let me see what other treasures Captain Sparrow may possess before I leave ya alone. She ran her delicate hands over my chest and unfastened my jacket and shirt. Slipping off the tattered blood stained garments and checking the pockets before dropping them to the floor. I then felt her gently stroking my cheek as she was removing the beads from my hair. She brushed her hands down my bare arms and I could feel her run her fingers over the B she branded in me arm. The touch of her hand sent shivers through my body.

While she continued removing the trinkets I heard her say. "Aye, I think he likes this, he responds to my touch. I have to say with those impossible dark black lined eyes, wild hair and muscular body of his, he does look dangerous does he not?" She laughed out loud and continued with her task of searching me.

"It's a good thing I'm feeling generous today eh darling. This could be the day I almost seduced Captain Jack Sparrow but I will wait until you are fit." She brushed her lips against mine then retreated.

"Shake a leg you dog I aint got all day." Jem snapped and then turned away and walked out of the room leaving me alone with Maggie to tend to my wound.

Maggie's touch was not as gentle as Jem's. Obviously when Jem said no funny business she meant it. This girl dug into my stomach and removed the bullet. She did get a response for I yelled out. It bloody hurt and I struck out and hit her. I'd say I most likely knocked her to the floor with my thrashing. I have no idea how long I was out or if she had stayed in the room. When I did awake all was quiet. There was nothing but blackness. Then I felt the pain in my gut return. It was throbbing incessantly.

I eventually opened my eyes and I was greeted by the stabbing sunlight. I immediately closed them again. I became aware of movement and realized I was at sea. The familiar gentle rocking motion of a ship usually comforts me but I was quite tense at the moment. I found myself remembering the cave, Jeffery, Will, Kat and then Jem.

I opened my eyes again and looked about the room. My eyes got wider and wider as I looked upon the quarters. It was a large room and I assumed it was Jeffery's from the conversation I barely remembered. It had dark wood panels and large frosted windows. There were large pieces of mahogany furniture and candles everywhere, which were partially burnt and standing ready for the evening hours. I gazed around the room and I saw all sorts of maps, clothing, bottles, half eaten food strewn all around and then chests and chests of treasure. Why in the world would Jeffery keep such a multitude of treasure in his cabin? I could see for my own eyes how right Jem was about her brother. I attempted to rise off the bed but the pain overtook me and then I heard footsteps. I lie down and closed my eyes feigning I was still unconscious.

I must have dozed off for when I awoke the room was dark and the candles were lit. I remained still for a while and then I sensed the bed move beside me. I felt Jem's warm body snuggle against mine as she pushed the covers off her body. The room was warm and my skin was covered with perspiration. I attempted to move but the pain was still there so I halted. Jem's head was on me shoulder and her slender leg was wrapped around mine. Her left arm was draped across my abdomen and her hand rested upon the bandages, which still appeared rather bloody. I guess when she said she was going to take care of me she meant it. Now I was beginning to wonder. If she wants me alive there must be something else she is playing for.

Her breathing was steady and peaceful so I could only assume she was asleep. As she shifted her position her silky hair tickled my chest. I peered at her in the dim light and realized she had removed all the covers and she only wore a light shift. My eyes roved up and down her petite body. I raised my right hand since she had conveniently put the left side of my body asleep by lying upon it. I let my hand hover over her for a while. I was reaching for her neck. I wrestled with the urge to strangle her while she slept or to grab her from behind her head and pull her closer to me and give her a deep passionate kiss that she would surly remember. It might be better for my situation if I used my charm on her. But I would certainly deserve a slap for it so I changed me mind. I reluctantly moved my hand away. With a lingering look at her I slowly just lifted her arm from me chest laid it to her side then I carefully slid my leg out from under hers. Remembering her wrath and knowing she did not wish to be ruled by any man, I figured my best bet was to get up and out. You know the old saying it is best to let a sleeping dog lie.

I sat up and the room was spinning about me. After several minutes my vision cleared and my head did not feel so detached. I proceeded to swing my legs off the bed and my bare feet came upon something soft and warm. Mandy was lying on the floor right next to the bed. She looked up at me and wagged her tail. She sat up and put her large golden head in my lap.

"Well Las, are you hear as a friend or foe?" I whispered. "Are you my prison guard too?" I asked her as I looked over my shoulder at Jem. "I will have to say she is prettier then the guards I've had to deal with in the past. As for you." I looked back upon the dog. " I don't like the company you've been keeping but it's good to see ya mate."

I looked around the room as the candles flickered and cast shadows on the walls. I spotted my torn bloody garments lying in a heap near the desk, which was still strewn with food, bottles and other sundries. I quietly got off the bed to make my way across the room when Mandy gave a slight growl. I looked at her and then at Jem whom still appeared sleeping.

"Now, Mandy Luv, please be kind to old Jack and don't give me away. I won't hurt the Lass if that is what you fear. I'm just taken care of meself. Have I ever given you reason not to trust me?" I rolled my eyes and looked down at her. I scratched her behind the ears and looked at her pleadingly. "Never mind that question Luv. I just wish to get dressed and go up on the deck. I need some air and I need to know where I am. Savvy?"

Mandy did remain quiet and I made my way to the desk. Painfully I dressed myself then I went to look at the maps laying on the desk trying to sort out where the hell I was. As I perused the maps I found some bottles that were half full and helped myself to the rum. I had also looked for a weapon but to my misfortunes there were none to be found.

I started rummaging through the open chests of jewels and gold. I placed some of the rings on me fingers and stashed some rubies and emeralds into me pockets. I then made my way over to the door only to find that it was locked. "Bloody hell the girl is sound asleep and she has locked me in too boot." I mumbled at Mandy half expecting her to answer back. At that opportune movement my temper got the best of me and through experience I should know never to let that happen. I strode back over to the desk and I picked up a rather ornate yet very empty bottle and smashed it on the side of the furniture leaving a rather lethal weapon in me hand.

I didn't hear the sounds of the footsteps behind me so the voice so close behind took me by surprise.

"What the hell are you doing?"

I whirled around so fast I lost my balance and fell into her arms. Yes, Jem was standing right behind me and now I was in her arms.

"Wooh! Careful my pet. There is no need to throw yourself at me just yet." Jem laughed.

Jem smiled sarcastically at me as she balanced me and herself and then her smile changed to a frown when she saw I held a jagged piece of glass in her direction.

"Well Luv." I said uneasily as I was steadying myself. "I found I couldn't get the last drop out so I had to break the bottle."

"Now, Jack I see you have more bloody fight in you than I anticipated. Well I have more blood and strength in me than you do in your little finger, so don't do anything stupid." Her face lightened up again as she stepped back from me.

"So Jack do you think you can stand on your own and take me on with a broken bottle?" She had a playful glint in her eye.

"It is Captain. Captain Sparrow." I retorted.

"No, it is not! You are no longer on your ship and you are no longer Captain. I will call you Sparrow or Jack or any damn thing I want too but it will not be Captain. This is my ship. Take a good look. She is not yours. Yet if you do as I say I will take you to yours when the time is right. You see Mate I am not all that bad, if you play along with me and follow the rules."

"Aye yes, how could I forget you are one whom follows rules but the rest of the world goes my guidelines?" I smirked as I lowered the bottle but did not drop it.

"You know if you promise to be a good boy I'll let you have freedom o'me ship. I'll bet you're always a good boy aren't ya Jack? Now put the glass down and show me how good you can be." She gave me a very seductive look and reached for me.

I once again held up the jagged glass. "Just stay where you are. I have not promised to be good yet and we have not made an accord. Savvy? I will cut you missy if you dare advance on me. I am not fond of your games or your rules. Now tell me what it is you want from me?"

"Now Jack, ya have a choice because if you misbehave like you are doing now you will spend the voyage in the brig. It is dark, cold, damp and quiet down there. I would say in your condition you would become deathly ill with fever and freeze from the waters that love to linger in the bottom of my boat. The only sounds you will hear are the rats squeaking as they scurry about looking for food and they won't find any cause you won't have any to give them so they will have to nibble on you.

"Ha!" I laughed. "From the looks of this place Lass there would be no rats down there. They could have a picnic in your brothers waste." I tossed a plate of half eaten molded food to the floor.

I leaned on the desk and lowered the broken bottle to my side. I noticed she was standing there unarmed and still just wearing her undergarments. My body tensed as I fought to keep control. Was I going to stand here and listen to her or take my chances and attack her with the broken bottle?

She backed away from me and swung the keys to the door on her little finger. Wandering around the cabin and staring at the jewels and gems that were strewn about she looked back at me. "You see Mr. Sparrow if you help me in my quest, then I will help you. In all fairness however, and I know you do not find me just. I have already helped you. Your daughter is safe, your ship is safe and you are safe."

"Well my lady. I will have to trust your word on that now won't I?" I kept a keen eye on her as she danced around the cabin.

"Will you for once just shut up and listen?" She glanced at me in annoyance. "Why does everything have to be so serious with you? You know Luv you should let your guard down and enjoy the finer things of life. Do you ever take pleasure in the things you steal or do you just take them and barter them away for booze and woman. Oh, how could I forget?" She placed her right hand upon her heart. "The only thing that means anything to you is your precious Black Pearl."

She sauntered over to one of the open chests and picked up a heavy gold chain with a huge emerald teardrop hanging from it. She placed it around her neck and admired herself in a hand mirror. She then put on a pair of diamond and pearl drop earrings. They were so long they brushed against her shoulders as she moved her head. She looked around the rest of the haul and enjoying herself thoroughly and gasping with delight she spotted a strand of black pearls so long that she wrapped it around her waist and knotted it, so the strand hung down her leg. She then picked up a pair of diamond-studded combs and put her hair up roughly with them. She began dancing around the cabin listening to music that must have been playing in her head because I certainly wasn't hearing anything. She wasn't even watching me. She was in her own little world having fun with the loot. She went over to a large rather ugly cabinet. The carving on it was that of a serpent eating a rabbit. You could see the serpent's long fangs going into the animal's neck and the terror in the tiny animals eyes. She unlocked the heavy doors and pulled out a fresh bottle of liquor and then continued to dance. "You see my pet, I know how to enjoy myself. I do not need my brother or father to rule over me. I can take care of my crew and myself. Now do we or do we not have an accord?"

I was in a trance watching this young woman dance so provocative around me while the jewels that adorned her curved body were glistening in the candlelight. Her actions were should I say odd but I found them rather alluring. As I watched her I noted that the unlocked cabinet contained several swords and daggers. My eyes grew wider and hoping she had not noticed I diverted my stare. I waited until she came close to me as she was whirling around the cabin. I grabbed her by the shoulders and threw her on the desk. I threw her down with such force she yelled and dropped her bottle. She then laughed then caught her breath as she saw the look of pure lust in my eyes.

I heard Mandy growling behind me and I just ignored her.

I pushed myself against Jem and kissed her roughly. "Call your dog off or we will have no accord. Savvy?" I looked into her eyes and I was holding the broken bottle under her chin.

"I'm not playing games now pet. I do want me freedom and me ship so tell me what it is that I must do to get this. You know I could kill you now but there would be no profit in it for me. I know I would never get off this ship alive. So what are the terms and you Mate better be true to your word."

Mandy was still growling but she had not attacked yet. I was grateful for I didn't want to hurt the dog. She had been a good friend to Kat and to me. I truly believe her loyalties were mixed. I am sure in Jem's defense she never struck at the animal and she probably always gave her the time and attention she desired.

Jem was pushing back and the anger was flashing in her eyes. I pinned her arms to her side making it impossible for her to move. "Now Luv, that ain't nice. Believe me, you'll'' like me once ya get to know me and I have been getting the distinct feeling you want to know me."

I brushed my lips against hers then I gently nibbled on one of her earlobes. I then ripped the earring from her ear and spit it to the floor. The more she struggled the more I pressed against her.

"Don't forget Luv ya wanted me to promise you I would be nice. The nicer you are to me. The nicer I'll be to you. Savvy?"

I got up off of her and extended me hand. "Do we or do we not have an accord?" Before I had a chance to think of the foolishness of my action, she leaped for the bed and she grabbed a sword from under the mattress. Quick as a flash I grabbed the sword I saw in the chest.

"Just what do you think you are doing Luv?" I questioned her. "Do you think this is wise? I am Captain Jack Sparrow and you won't win."

"Mr. Sparrow you have gone too far. Do we have an accord? I can't say we ever shook on it or that you agreed to my terms. You just threatened me with a bottle and now you try to bully me with your strength. You claim you are playing nice but I did not ask for you to be nice. I asked for you to be good. You see pet there is a difference. As far as being wise crossing blades with you? Why yes Luv, cause you are not the one whom will win. You seem to forget I am Captain Barbossa and I make no mistakes. I will unarm you and then throw you in the brig."

She lifted her sword and lunged. We parried and the swords clashed together again and again. Jem moved backwards, then she lunged forwards, thrusting the blade toward me and making me dodge. She was superior. She was very skilled.

"Where the hell did you learn to sword fight?" I blocked again then leaped forward at her, waving my free arm about theatrically and grinning as I snagged the rope of pearls from her waist and they flew around the room. "Good aren't I Luv?"

Jem rolled her eyes and clashed her sword hard upon mine. "I was taught by my mother if it is any concern to you? She was an excellent swordsman and since you ask. You are good I suppose." Jem dodged around a heavy beam in the room, blocking my sword as I swung it around.

The duel went on for a few more minutes until my wound started to ache and my sword was getting heavier. I lunged at her once more but she was too quick and slapped the flat of her blade on my hand causing me to drop the sword.

She then lowered her blade and started to applaud. "Well done Jack Sparrow, I wouldn't have expected anything less of you. You have a keen eye and you move quickly but not quick enough. Now get back into the bed and mend yourself, you'll just become ill if I send you to the brig. The rats really are bad. I will be putting you to work soon so take me up on me offer now and rest your pretty self."

She turned from me and immediately just dismissed me. She quickly dressed and advanced over to the door and unlocked it. I was not at all pleased with her attitude. She took it as if she had won the fight. I was inclined to disagree. She stopped when she felt the tip of my sword at her back.

Stopping dead when she felt the point in her back she turned to me. "Bloody hell Sparrow, don't you know when you are beaten?"

"I did not yield Miss Barbossa. You haven't beaten me until I yield."

"Sparrow why do you have to be so bloody stubborn. You didn't yield and I didn't kill you. Is that what you want? You want me to kill you?" All right then if you want a fight, I'll give you one. You want to yield I'll let you. I just wanted to leave you some dignity Luv that's all."

"To hell with dignity make ready your sword!" I spit at her.

Drawing our swords once more we moved forward, while clashing. I hit my blade hard against hers and cornered her into the room. I fought her as hard as I would fight any man and she kept coming back. She reminded me of a tenacious dog hanging on to a bone and her skill was excellent. I could tell she was getting somewhat exhausted which made me feel better about myself of course this may have been wishful thinking on my part. To my surprise she did drop her sword and bent down quickly to pick it up, but was not quick enough. She winced as I placed the tip of my sword against her neck. "Now Darling who is not quick enough. Do you yield to me now Luv?" My voice was soft as velvet as I spoke into her ear.

"Yes I yield Sparrow." She looked at me shaking her head. "If that is what it will take for you to stop fighting me and just listen? Now put the bloody weapon down grab yourself a drink and pull up a chair." She stood up straight and left the sword lying on the floor. She pushed my point away from her neck. "Remember Mr. Sparrow I yield to you in this duel but you will not have me so easy." She looked deep into my eyes, placed her lips on mine ran her fingers over my face and whispered. "It just wouldn't be proper for me to take advangtad over you CAPTAIN since you are wounded." She took the sword from my hand walked to the desk and pulled two chairs up.

"Sit Sparrow and have some rum." She offered it and I declined not quite trusting her. She then fished into her pocket and pulled out the packet of papers she had removed from Jeffery's coat the day he had died.

I sauntered over to her now interested in what she had to say. I sat down placed my feet on the desk and made myself comfortable.

"All right Lass what is it you think I can do for you?" Looking at the papers she was now unfolding. "And if you don't mind my pet, I've changed me mind about the drink."

By this time several crewmembers had come into the room. They had obviously heard the raucous of the fight.

"Jem." Tom spoke up. Looking at her to make sure she was unharmed. He picked the sword up off the floor and approached us.

"Are you in need of any assistance Captain?" Tom spoke as he fondled the weapon and glanced from me to her.

"No, I think I can pour my own drink thank you Mate." I replied. I then looked at Jem. "My apologizes Luv." I put my hands together as if I were praying and bowed my head. "My deepest apologizes he most likely was talking to you?"

She stood up slapped me across the face and turned to Tom. "Take him to the brig!" She put the papers back into her pocket and headed for the door.

"Why? I thought we had an accord Luv and now you are backing out? Typical female thing to do." I tossed my non-drink hand up in the air. "We were just getting along. We finished our play and now we were getting down to business."

Tom yanked me from the chair causing me to drop my drink and ever so roughly he placed ankle fetters and handcuffs on me. I looked at Jem with disbelief in my eyes while I stood feeling the sting of her slap on my face.

"Nobody draws a sword on me MY PET! Especially not on my ship. If your memory is playing tricks on you please let me enlighten you. We have not shaken on anything. You keep on pulling a sword or some other form of weapon and continue to speak out of turn. You are an arrogant bastard and I have just about had enough of you for one day. I have had enough of you for two to three days." She tossed her hair over her left shoulder and looked at Tom. "Now take him to the brig so he can cool off or should I say so I can cool off." She picked up a bottle of rum. Took a long drag off of it and then threw the bottle at me. I dodged it and it hit Tom smack in the nose.

"Ouch! That's gotta hurt Mate." I glanced at him sideways and rolled my eyes down. "I've learned from experience you gotta be quick around her. She is good but she doesn't play very nice. Savvy?"

Tom not being amused pushed me towards the door and jabbed me with the sword he was still holding.

Jem came over and picked the bottle up off the floor and then glared at me. "Jack Sparrow when you can tell me or show me the difference between good and nice then we shall talk." She looked at Tom. "Sorry for the blow Lad you know that wasn't meant for you. But, do not harm him. Just lock him up." She then took the sword from his hand and headed for the helm.

The men grabbed me with tremendous force and took me down to the brig and shoved me none to gently into the cell, chuckling as I stumbled and fell on the floor.

I'd say Mr. Sparrow your fortunes have gone from bad to worse. You start out in the captain's quarters and in her bed. For some unknown reason to us she takes you under her wing. Now you attack her with a sword and you are down here to rot. You'll be lucky if you see daylight for at least three days."

"Worry about you own fortunes, gentlemen. The deepest circle of hell is reserved for betrayers and mutineers and I am neither so I think I shall survive whatever Miss Barbossa hands me. Savvy?

XXXXXXXXXX

I sat down in the brig for a long time. I estimated two days had gone by and I hadn't seen a soul. I was sure somebody would be coming down to bring me food and water. Jem was correct in saying it was cold, dank and very lonely except for the rats. I huddled in the corner of the cell, trying to stay warm and keep my spirits up. I wasn't successful at either one. I was beginning to wonder if they had forgotten me. I was also very curious as to what Jem had laid out on the table and how I fit into her scheme. If she did indeed need my help I figured I wouldn't be sitting here long.

I pressed my eye to the small crack in the ship's hull to watch the waves crash against the side of the ship and to see the position of the sun. From where I peered I could not see the sun and there appeared to be quite a storm brewing on the horizon. I was hoping beyond hope Jem knew how to sail into a storm let alone a hurricane.

During the evening hours the storm turned nasty. I could hear the driving rain on the ship and I heard a crewmember yelling the visibility was bad. Rain and seawater were seeping into the brig, adding yet more water to the couple of inches already slopping around, while the walls were dripping with moisture. There were strong easterly winds pushing on The Vengeance. The winds sprang up, and they were sweeping in from the Atlantic and building up to gale forces. I sure hoped Jem knew how to read the weather and that she was aware we were heading straight into a hurricane because I sure did. I heard Jem yell.

"Cut down the masts to reduce the strain on the hull."

"No! Not good! Not good!" I yelled at the top of my lungs as another wave crashed over the bow and the water came seeping in. Normally I did not mind storms unless they came up unexpectedly and this one had. Also I wanted to take control of The Vengeance cause I knew I would not sink her and I was leery of this crew. "Bloody hell let me out of here. I can sail you to safety. I can take care of you!"

The ship rocked violently and she felt as if she were going to go over. The winds and the waves were simply driving the vessel all over the ocean. Nausea and chills over came me and I had to retch even though my stomach was empty. They needed somebody who could handle the helm. They needed me. Then I heard Jem's voice yell over the pounding rain and whipping winds.

"Battened down in the hold and tie yourselves in. Tie anything down that can and will move. These mountainous waves will overcome us."

I slumped down against my prison wall fearing all I could do was watch the water pour in and wait for The Vengeance to sink. Then I heard someone approaching the brig. It had been more than two days since I had seen anybody. I gathered myself up as fast as I could to my feet and stood at the bars, waiting to see who would appear. I was not surprised to see a dripping wet Jem and she was swinging the keys to the brig in her hand.

"Aye are you to behave now Jack?" Her voice was somewhat sarcastic but I knew she was going to let me out no matter what I said. I knew she did not want to loose her ship and she knew I could sail it. "Cause if you don't Sparrow, you'll be right back in the brig again."

Leaning on the bars now trying not to get sick on her or myself I spoke. "Do I have a choice?" Not waiting for a reply I continued. "Jem, what are the bearings? We must get out of the fury of this storm and head for a sheltered cove. You most throw some stuff overboard and lighten the ship. The waves are too large for this ship and the winds will over come her."

"Alright Sparrow I will let you out and if you get us to safety you can have freedom on my ship."

She sprung the door open and removed the shackles from me legs and arms. She stood in the doorway watching me closely then moved back slightly and nodded for me to head up to the deck.

I immediately ran up the stairs and went to the helm.

"Tom is it? Step aside Lad and hand over the helm. Your captain has asked for my help and I will abide to her wishes this time. I find it very profitable to me and those around me. You go down below and tie yourself down. It is going to get worse before it gets better."

I had to struggle with the helm for the seas were raging. Trying to keep The Vengeance on course, all the while and hoping there were no rocks between the ship and the cove was my only thought. Jem had given me the bearings and I knew the area well.

"There is an island due south of us with a few sheltered coves. If we can make it that far we should survive." I shouted towards Jem as another wave washed over the deck and almost took the both of us down.

"Jem get your men down there to work the pumps and also use buckets to bail out the water. I know you debated whether to cut away the masts and I'm happy to see you decided against it. Rig some preventer shrouds to secure the mainmast and lay up the other tack till the storm is over." I just kept shouting out orders and Jem did as I said.

It took hours to cover the distance. Jem was standing beside me looking through her spyglass hoping to see the inlet and yelling out orders to her men. Struggling to make myself heard over the gale winds I hollered to Jem.

"Jem would you please take the helm. Hold her steady and don't let go. I must go check on our location the visibility is just not good here. What ever you do, don't let go and stay on this course."

Jem without hesitation handed me the spyglass and gripped onto the wheel. I made my way to the crow's nest and scanned the horizon searching for any sign of other ships, rocks and coral reefs. Grinning broadly as I saw several ships on the verge of wreckage and knowing after the storm and after we made our repairs they would be in need of great help and we could go plunder them. I made my way back to the helm and I once again took control of the ship.

"Jem my dear, if you want to make your crew happy I have a suggestion for you. Note I suggest and I am not ordering. There are at least three ships out there that will not weather the storm. I suggest when you are ready we go raid, pillage, plunder and otherwise pilfer our weasely black guts out. Savvy?" I smiled at her as I wiped my face along my sleeve desperately tying to clear the rain and salt water from my eyes.

As we reached our destination and the wind died down to a stiff breeze and the sea had flattened out some. I sat down on the deck; exhausted and grateful that Jem had let me sail us into safety.

Jem looked at me as I sat leaning against the wheel. "Thank you Captain Sparrow."

"I accept your thanks graciously. If I were you Luv and looking at your beautiful self and then at me I do know the difference so I won't take any liberties, yet I would order the crew to check on the ship for damages." I laid my head back on the wheel and closed my eyes, while another verge of nausea over came me.

"I will go do that. You keep a sharp eye on the helm. We will be dropping the canvas soon and the anchor." Jem left but she was not gone for more than twenty minutes. During her absence I remained seated on the deck. Hunger and fatigue were consuming me body. All I could manage was to lay my head back and close my eyes. I sensed someone standing over me and I opened my eyes slowly. When I realized it was Jem I gave her a golden smile. "Ello Luv, now what can I do for you?"

Jem looked down on me with those same soft eyes and genuine smile I had seen her give Kat. She had a bottle of rum, which she handed to me. I took it from her out stretched hand and swallowed hard and long.

Feeling quite pleased with myself when she reported only minor damage I could not hold me tongue.

"See Luv, I told you I would be a good boy." I raised my hand and I stroked the wheel tenderly then hauled myself to my feet and ordered the men to carry out the repairs. "Sorry Lass, I'll let you give the orders." I then stood next to Jem and pulled out her spyglass. I showed her the ships that were listing on the horizon and I could tell she was impressed with the way I thought.

The winds picked up again and I started to shiver violently. I was chilled to my bones, I was exhausted and hungry. I tried to stop my shivering and I did not want Jem to notice. But it was impossible. My teeth chattered, clashing together hard. To my surprise Jem removed her jacket and placed it over me shoulders.

"Mathew. Sparrow has done himself proud and has gotten us to safety. Please take over the helm. Get us further inland and then drop the canvas and anchor. We will stay here until the storm has passed. We are in the eye right now."

She then put her arms around me to try to prevent my shivering so. My skin felt as if pins were pricking at me and my teeth felt as if they would shatter.

"Jack. Please come with me. You have exerted yourself and you must get warm and rest." I had no problems following her to her quarters. I savored the warmth of her coat and her warm body through my wet clothes. "C'mon I know you will promise to behave." She said, as she looked kindly upon me. "I promise I will be nice."

I went to her quarters and sat down in one of two very large and comfortable chairs. Realizing I was aching all over and coming to the conclusion my stint in the brig didn't do me health any good. I pulled off my boots and took off my battered jacket, which was soaked all the way through. I then untied my wet bandana and allowed my long wet hair to fall forward over my shoulders and shook my head like I had seem Mandy do after her swims in the ocean. Forgetting where I was I started to remove me shirt then I caught Jem watching me.

"Aye forgive me love, I am getting a little carried away I dare not take such liberties in your cabin. It's just that I am wet and dreadfully cold and for my health it is best to get rid of these wet trappings."

Her face was quite enchanting and she smirked at me. "Carry on Jack I won't stop you."

She walked over to the bed and pulled the large quilt off of it. She came over and draped it over me shoulders. "This should keep you warm Jack Sparrow." She then walked over to the table and once again placed the papers from her pocket on it. Looking at me and then at the cabinet behind me she went and got a bottle of wine and two glasses.

"Here you go Jack." She had poured out two glasses of wine and handed me one. Her eyes were showing some concern. "Just take a little sip. You do not look well Luv. Your lips are a fine shade of plum and your skin is ashen."

"Very well then Luv, I mean Jem-Captain. We won't toast to me health. Aye we can wish fer fair weather and lots of heavily laden vessels to plunder. We can do our bloody best to be fair and honest with our fellow pirates. We can drink to freedom. We can drink to The Black Pearl. We could shake and have an accord."

She put her glass down and walked over to me and extending her right hand out to me. I looked up into her deep dark eyes and extended my hand to her.

"Do we have an accord then Captain Barbossa? I will help you in your quest and you will take me to The Black Pearl."

"We have an accord Captain Sparrow. Agreed."

"Agreed." I repeated and held on to her hand tightly not wanting to let go, as I looked deep into her eyes. This time I could see a soul. I did trust her and I knew someday she would be taking me to my ship.

"Jack lay your head upon the table and rest or go over to the bed a lay down." Before I could object she had pulled her hand away from mine and forced my head down onto the table. She gathered up my hair put it over my shoulder and out of the way and then gently started rubbing my back. Her long, flexible fingers worked at all the knots that had invaded me muscles. I felt to tired to resist and I gratefully accepted her ministration. My eyes felt heavy and I couldn't keep them open.

"Now this is nice… or should I say this is good?"

A/N I hope everyone is enjoying the story. For those of you whom do not have children I wish to enlighten you. I do have a beautiful daughter, actually two beautiful daughters. One is named Katheryn and she is a very talented, fine-looking young girl. She was walking at the age of 10 months and was talking a blue streak at 18 months. Obviously Jack's daughter is just as talented as mine. Of course she could never be as beautiful. Kathy is my daughter and she gives me life, just like Jack's daughter does for him. Yes, isn't it strange how these two traits coincide? R/R