Chapter 12: Fencing with the Admiral

I woke up the next morning to the sudden beam of light that shined through the large windows of my new bedroom. I took a moment to look at my surroundings. I just couldn't believe it. I was here in his home. I beamed with joy as a maid came by the side of my bed.

"Miss Howard, Admiral Norrington sends his apologies, but he will not be joining you for breakfast. He had urgent matters to attend to at the fort."

"Oh, all right. When does he come home?" I asked curiously.

"Usually about six in the evening. Oh, but he requested that you meet with him at the fort today. A carriage will be waiting after you get dressed and have breakfast". The maid flung over my covers, making me shiver with the cold air of the morning. I was led over to the screen to change into my dress.

Once again my breasts almost bursting as they tied my corset tighter. Seriously, how can women wear these? After the rest of the elements that went under the dress were added, they slipped on a cream flower printed dress. I must say James really knows how to pick such beautiful gowns. I decided to wear my hair down today and only adorn it with a small pearl barret to the right side of my brown tresses. As I clasped it in place I couldn't help but wonder why he wanted me at the fort. But I was happy nonetheless.

"Breakfast is served Miss Howard".

"Thank you". With that I stood from the vanity and glided towards the dining hall.

I only took two bites of my fruit and three sips of my tea. I was a bit excited to go to the fort. Something about him, just made my heart sing...I honestly don't know why. But he did. Yet, I always find myself wondering if he thinks of me the same way. He says he loves me, but another part of him still longs for Elizabeth. I know so. Which is why I set a goal for myself...my goal is to rid him of Elizabeth forever. To the point where James will be disgusted to even think of her.

As I rode to Fort Charles, I could not help but take in the breathtaking scenery. To me the human world seemed beautiful, especially the town. I never seen anything like it. I was used to the sea, it was nice, of course...it was my home. But it was always the same to me.

The carriage came to a sudden hault. As soon as I stepped down, I was greeted by one of the leutinants.

"Good morning Miss Howard, we have been expecting you. I am Leutinant Carter". Leutinant Carter took my hand and kissed it.

"Good morning Leutinant. Do you happen to know where Admiral Norrington is?"

"Oh yes, he is over here...follow me". I followed Leutinant Carter through the long corridors of Fort Charles.

I was shocked at what I saw.

James and another Leutinant fighting. More like fencing with their swords. I never saw this competitive side of James before. I was quite surprised actually. Yet, he looked irresistable once again. I stood there intently, watching him.

The clashing of the swords became louder. James kept thrusting forward causing the other man to move back. But the tables were suddenly turned on James when the other man caught him off guard for a mere second, causing James to stumble back. I gasped, but I was quickly relieved when James redeemed himself with a huge blow. This caused the other Leutinant to fall to the floor while blocking it.

"It appears I have won this little duel leutinant". James declared in a haughty tone. Sending me to shiver with pure pleasure.

"So it would seem Admiral". replied the man as James offered his hand to help him up.

"Well done sir. I have someone here who wishes to see you". Leutinant Carter turns towards me.

James's gaze fell on me. He was speechless at first. He stared intently at me, I could see his emeralds scanning my body.

"Ah yes, Miss Howard". James came over to me. "Leutinant Groves, this is Miss Narissa Howard".

"Good morning Miss Howard". Leutinant Groves greeted politely.

"Pleasure to me you". I gave them all my charming smile.

"Back to your post men. I have matters to discuss with Miss Howard, in which case I do not wish to be disturbed". They all nodded and scurried back to their posts. James turned to me and smiled. "Shall we". He offered his arm and led me to his office.

Once we were in his office, all of his guard came down. In one quick swift move he gathered me into his arms and kissed me with all the passion he could muster. His hands running along my curves. I loved how it felt! But I pushed him gently away before it could get any further.

"How did you sleep"? He asked as he led me over to the chair.

"Very well, and you?"

"Wonderfully knowing you were content to be with me". James stole a light kiss from my lips once more.

"I will always be". I replied as I cupped his chin in my small hands.

He smirked. "I trust Leutinant Carter was well behaved when I sent him to retrieve you".

"Yes he was. James, why were you fighting with Leutinant Groves?" I asked innocently.

"Oh don't worry darling, its just practice. You know for when we encounter real enemies".

"You are very good at it, care to teach me?" I had to ask. It looked very intersting. Plus...I wanted to see that competitive side of him once more.

"Thank you and no". He stood and walked over to his desk that was already filled with paperwork.

"Why not?" I was a bit shocked he denied me this.

"Its too dangerous, and besides the swords are to heavy for you".

"No they are not, I am sure I can do it."

"Very well. Here, prove it". James stood and handed me a spare sword he kept in his office.

It was heavy, that I admit. "Fine." I lifted it and gave a swift thrust, which James acted quickly and blocked it. He smirked, knowing he was right. I waited for few seconds and thrusted again, this time harder. But yet again he proved me wrong with his expert guard.

"Give this up my darling Narissa, you know I am right".

"Please". I thrusted again and moved forward quickly which caused me to stumble on my dress and fall right into James's arms.

"You see, perhaps I will teach you when you are not wearing a one of your beautiful gowns". He leaned down to kiss me sweetly which I responeded by pulling him tighter.

"I will hold you to that".

A/N: Aww how cute Narissa wanting to beat him at something. lol. Anywho, Thanks to all who review...keep it up! Thanks-Michelle