Prompt: Currency of the Realm; originally posted on 25/1/08.
"My father used to say that loyalty was the currency of the realm, the fortune upon which our strength rested, an account built up between the men who lead us. Apparently times change."
Even to her own ears, her voice was scornful, evidencing more bitterness than she had realised still lingered, another wound festering in her heart. Her fingers brushed the small pile of gold upon the table and plucked an English guinea from among the coins. For a few seconds she gazed at the portrait of the late monarch engraved upon it before, lip curling, she tossed it back to join its fellows.
"On the other hand, it has always been common knowledge that the only motivation pirates possess is the acquisition of material goods, through fair means or—preferably—foul. So tell me, Captain: if the proud, noble British standards of trust and justice have been eroded by sugar and silver and slaves until dukes and ministers hold the values of pirates—what becomes of the pirates? What now holds worth in my kingdom?"
Beneath the brim of his hat, Teague's eyes were dark and wise, bright but shuttered.
"Wit," he said slowly. "The ability to survive, and keep your men by your side, in every sense that matters. You may not believe it, but even thieves need their heroes."
Again, those eyes took her measure, finding she knew not what.
"Oh aye, and a few pieces of shine always help."
She was almost sure that Teague winked.