Chapter 35: Invitation
"General Nathanael Greene at your service," as he took Sparrow's hand, "and right on all counts; particularly that you control this city."
"So, what can the Admiralty do for you, General Greene?"
"Well, we have an offer for you, Admiral."
"We, the Continental Army?"
"We, the Continental Army."
"I am now listening attentively, General." Jack Sparrow leaned back in the chair he sat in. General Greene also relaxed; it was difficult not to around Jack Sparrow. "What can I do for my American brethren?"
"Well, as you may have heard, the American colonies have declared independence from Great Britain."
"I have."
"Well, patriotism aside, let's be realistic; we are thirteen disassembled colonies united by a group of men who, for every one hour of productivity, bicker pointlessly for ten. We face the greatest empire in the history of the world, led by one of the most cantankerous and dangerous kings in said history. That being said...we've got George Washington. And he realizes these facts."
"Well, he's quite an intelligent man, I shall grant him that. Go on," Sparrow gestured.
"Well, we know that we simply cannot defeat the English alone. So we are sending envoys to several other entities; France, Germany, pirate captains..."
"Pirate Admirals?" Jack suggested. "Please continue."
"Well, we're formally asking for your assistance. We'd financially assist you, and in return, the occasional assigned mission. Otherwise, just continue your habit of causing chaos and mayhem wherever you go."
"Hmm. Forget the financial assistance, General; I want rum. Get me rum—lots of it—and you've got a pirate."
"Privateer is the term we're using, Admiral."
"Well, when referring to me, you shall use the term 'Admiralty Jack Sparrow'." After a moment, he added, "Use of the term 'pirate' would placate me, though I would certainly appreciate 'Admiralty Sparrow'. Any other strings attached?"
"No other strings attached, Admiral Sparrow. So, Jack," he rose. "Can I take a 'yes' to General Washington?"
"You can, Nathanael. Whether or not you will is up to you." At Greene's pained look, "But I find meself inclined to acquiesce to your request."
"Excellent. Then might I give you an assignment now?"
"You might."
"We would like you to take a small group of men and assault Fort Charles, located in—"
"Port Royale. What are my objectives?"
"Just try to break in, free prisoners, shove their cannon off the cliff, burn bridges, commandeer a ship, raid, pillage, plunder, and otherwise pilfer your weaselly black guts out." He widened his eyes for effect on the last bit.
Sparrow smiled. "Well, I shall get right on top of it."
"Thank you, Admiral Sparrow." Greene made a semi-formal bow to the pirate.
"Thank you, General Greene."
