Disclaimer: I own no part of Pirates of the Caribbean. Original characters and plots belong to me.

Chapter 13 – Armistice

Numb from the evening's confrontations, I locked myself in my cabin, moving as if my limbs were made of lead. Jeremy's coat fell from my hand, landing in a heap on the floor, and I sprawled on my berth, staring at the ceiling. There was nothing for it but to lie awake and hope the hours before dawn would pass quickly.

Everything had been settled, and nothing had been settled. Was that not the meaning of an armistice? We had agreed to hold off our fighting, to take up our parley later. Tomorrow, Hector would accept Jeremy's offer, and let him use the Medusa for a mission so shrouded in secrecy that none of us knew its purpose. Once that was finished, who could predict the future of my marriage?

There was no question that my love for Hector would survive; I cherished him even as I numbered his faults. They made no difference to me. His heart had been corrupted long ago, amidst the privations and injustices of his youth. Yet within that brokenness, beneath those imperfections, a spark of goodness persisted. I understood the strengths and failings of the man I loved, and I embraced both aspects of his character.

But it was beyond my power to trust him, try though I might. Like a child standing uncertainly on the threshold, awaiting permission to enter a room, I held back from that last, decisive step. I knew I must wait for some sort of change, an indefinable sign from Hector, before our bond of trust could be restored.

My eye fell on the crumpled coat, and I thought of Jeremy. Resentment slowly took hold of me as I mused over his actions. He had assessed my relationship with Hector, weighed it, and used the dancing woman to set us against each other. All to gain control of the Medusa.

My expression tightened. It galled me to think that Jeremy would know that his gambit had succeeded. He would smile at us, feline and satisfied. I wished that we had arranged to deceive him, to conceal the reason Hector had changed his mind.

I continued to gaze at the coat. It had certainly piqued Jack's interest. He had insisted upon holding it whilst I sought out Hector. He had retrieved it after Jeremy passed out. And then he brought it to me.

I sat up, frowning. Uncommonly selfless of him, now I thought of it. I looked at the coat more closely.

One corner formed an odd peak, as though there were something flat and angular propping it up. I picked up the coat and gently flexed that area with my fingers. Something between the pocket and the lining made a soft crackling noise. I rubbed the velvet with the pads of my fingers, and heard it: the sound of fabric sliding across paper.

Turning it over, I found a longish thread hanging from the hem. Surely it hadn't always been like this? Such messy work! "Oh, Jack," I murmured. "With stitches like this you'll never make a seamstress – or a spy."

Carefully, I picked out the thread and extracted the heavy paper that Jack must have re-sewn into the coat's lining. The paper was less brittle than I would have thought, and I smoothed it out on my berth. There was a little symbol at the top of the page – just a straight line with a curl or two at each end, like a crude drawing of a sword. And below the odd-looking glyph was a map.

It was crudely but painstakingly sketched, with landmarks and settlements all noted and described. What had Jeremy told me at the tailor's shop? I concentrated, and could almost hear his voice. Our destination is the lost city of Huesos Blanqueados. I scanned the map, moving my hand across it to keep track of where I was searching.

All at once, a familiar name stood out.

I traced the inky letters with my finger. "Cuidad de Huesos Blanqueados". It had meant nothing to me when Jeremy said it, but now I translated the name to English. City of the Whitened Bones.

An abandoned city where the sands glittered with gold, he had said. But a nagging question remained, one that could not be answered with a map. What would make people abandon a city filled with gold?

-0-

Once my study of the map was concluded, I thought how I might stitch the coat back together. A needle from the surgery would work. As I stood up, I heard a commotion outside. The shuffle of more than one pair of heavy feet was followed by Rufus' voice. I came out of my cabin just in time to see Jeremy being carried to his berth by two seamen, under the direction of our ship's doctor.

Rufus met me with a grim smile. "I suspicion ee won't recall much o' the evenin'," he remarked, indicating Jeremy. "Jack did see t' that."

"I need something from the surgery," I told him. He was instantly alert.

"I'm in health," I added hastily. "I've only to sew up a tear in some clothes."

He regarded me sceptically. "At this hour?" he asked with a dry chuckle. "Yer more industrious than a precher's dattur, ain't ye? I'll walk with ye."

We made our way to the surgery, and I located a needle by the light of Rufus' lantern. As he waited, he tapped his gnarled fingers on the surgical table, and cast an eye over the room's many shelves and cabinets. "Ye'll be ship's doctor," he finally declared. "Like it or not."

I looked up quickly. "Only for one venture. After that, well . . ." I shrugged, hoping I looked as though I didn't care. "But Rufus, do hasten back as soon as you can. Hector needs you."

He shook his head. "Tedn't me ee needs, lass." Before I could reply, he added, "Ye'll be holdin' down yer victuals better in a short time."

I caught my breath for an instant, and my face flushed. "I must stay away from the court until afterwards," I blurted out, utterly relieved to confide in him. "They can't know I'm wed to a pirate. But I can show the child later and say I'm bringing up a distant relation."

"Ye think t' fool 'em wi' a tale like that?" he scoffed.

"Oh, they will all know," I said, "But no one will care. That's the way the court works - it's done all the time. Funny, isn't it? The great crime is to be caught with a swollen belly. Then they finish you."

"Ef ye need me or Jen t' help ye wi' getting' the baby born, 'twould be no trouble," he said. "Just say the word."

His kind offer gave me hope that I would be able to manage. The Bitter family, as close to extinct as possible, would have a descendant after all. In my mind's eye, the faint ghost of a smiling woman stirred. Was it my mother? Although my father would see his grandson, I dearly wished that Marianne and my uncle Harry were still alive. The only one who wouldn't care for it was Hector.

"You know," I told Rufus, "he said 'no brats' when we wed."

Rufus snorted. "Many a man says words ee soon regrets. Barbossa's no different. Wait 'til ee sees the cheeil in yer arms."

"Perhaps I should tell him now," I said doubtfully, not looking forward to it.

"Nay, let it keep," Rufus advised. "Barbossa 'uz talking to Pintel and Ragetti when we brought Norrington aboard, and ee's in a fair temper. Take yer rest, peaceable-like, an' tell 'im tomorrow if ye must."

As Rufus walked me back to my cabin, I could hear Hector shouting at the unfortunate Pintel and Ragetti in the day room. Something was afoot, but I had my own business to occupy me.

I sewed the map into Jeremy's coat and left it near his boots. Then I locked myself in my cabin and blew out the candle. Despite Rufus' encouragement, I expected to remain awake until dawn, which couldn't be more than two hours away.

After what seemed a long time, I was startled by the sound of some object being pushed briskly under my door, followed by the stealthy footsteps of someone retreating down the companionway. Getting up to look, I spied a folded square of paper on the floor. I lit a candle and picked up the paper, which was inscribed "Nina" in Hector's elaborate hand.

My exhausted spirits shrank back in fear. Dear heaven, why must there be more scenes tonight? Did Hector mean to berate me? Was it an effort to win me over by more of his artful flattery? I groaned, hoping it wasn't a poem.

I unfolded the paper and started to read. "Darling Missus," it began, and a warm glow instantly surrounded me.

But it wasn't a poem – it was better than any poem. He had sent me the one thing that could draw us together: a plan. Hector intended to conceal our fight, the dancing woman, and all our affectionate ties from Jeremy. I studied the part I was to play, smiling to think that once more, Hector and I were working together. Perhaps there was hope for us after all.

He had signed the letter, "Yr very humble and devot'd servnt-" and added his initials with more flourishes than a royal cypher. I was utterly charmed.

Moving closer to my candle, I reluctantly followed his first instruction. I tore the paper, bit by bit, and fed the strips into the flame. Once it was all consumed, I broke up the burnt pieces and scattered the ashes on the floor.

-0-

In the morning, I went to the day room, where I found Jeremy alone, Hector having contrived to be absent. No sooner had I sat down to breakfast than Jeremy announced that he had failed to reach an agreement with Barbossa.

I lowered my eyes, but allowed him to see the corner of my scornful smile. "So you haven't been able to persuade him?"

"We haven't spoken," he replied. "I thought perhaps he might be more eager to strike a bargain if you were to ask him. Last night . . ."

"Dear me!" I widened my eyes in amazement. "Last night I was fully occupied getting you back to the ship! And now I'm expected to finish the negotiations you began?" I put down my fork smartly. "I suppose the evening left you with a poor appetite for business today, though I hope you are recovered."

"Of course," he said, somewhat flustered. "Well, well, then I suppose we must find another ship."

Seeing that I had got him on his back foot, I pressed onward. "When offering my assistance, I never imagined you would not also be assisting yourself. I made an accord to bring this very ship to Havana. And now you say that because the same greedy old scoundrel didn't leap at your first offer, you are simply giving up? What makes you think another captain will be more obliging?"

"Perhaps he'll be short of funds," he shrugged.

"Ah! So we're looking for a less successful brigand!" I sighed. "And what sort of ship will he have? A smaller ship, which means a slower ship. And one that carries fewer guns. The Medusa is the largest ship in the harbour. You might at least make a second attempt."

Jeremy seemed faintly amused. "No harm in that, I suppose. Apparently your motto is Perseverance at all costs."

I downed the last of my drink. "You have no idea."

"And I'm obliged to you for looking after my coat-" Just then, the door opened roughly and Hector entered the room.

He was carrying his log book, which was open, and instead of joining us, he went to his chart table and began working.

I turned back to Jeremy and signalled him to try his offer once more. He cleared his throat and said, "Captain? I regret the distraction, but may I have a word?"

Hector gave him a sharp look. "I've to sign on replacements fer two o' me crew an' me ship's doctor. I'm a little busy at the moment."

"I won't trespass on your hospitality an instant longer than necessary," Jeremy assured him. "I thought that, before I seek out another ship, perhaps you'd care to make a counter-offer regarding my proposal?"

Hector closed the log and turned to face us, resting one arm on the closed book. "One: I'm disinclined t' commit me ship to a venture in waters unknown to me. Two: the ship must be provisioned, meanin' I'd want money to pay fer supplies now, not later. And three: I need t' know there's some chart or bearings to get us there besides whatever ye be carryin' in yer head."

"I can pay for your provisions," Jeremy said, "But the bearings may be a problem, since I prefer to keep them to myself until needed." He thought for a moment, then indicated me. "If Mistress Bitter confirms that there is a map, will you take her word?"

Hector gave me a narrow look, then nodded grudgingly at Jeremy. "Aye. Now ye'll excuse me . . ." He turned back to his work.

I followed Jeremy back to his cabin, and sat quietly as he cut the map from his old coat. He smoothed it out on his berth, much as I had done the previous night, and pointed out the same destination, Cuidad de Huesos Blanqueados.

"Around about 1575 or so," he told me, "The conquistadors began to hear reports of a secret city on a remote island, once vast and full of gold, but later abandoned by its people. Bear in mind that all sorts of legends were circulated by the tribes in this area – tales of half-human monsters, monkey gods, and of course, the mythical Fountain of Youth."

The hair on the back of my neck was standing up, but I affected a polite disinterest.

"As far as is known," he went on, "No one ever found any such city." He paused a moment. "Until 1690, when a Spanish adventurer claimed to have located its ruins. His name is not important – he hanged himself after returning home. But not before he wrote an account of his travels, and drew this map, which has found its way into our possession. We have every reason to believe that the city does exist."

"By 'we'," I enquired gingerly, "I suppose you mean the Crown?"

He looked startled, then laughed. "Why, yes. Of course I meant the Crown."

I nodded. "I see. So, are we to claim this territory for King George?"

"Not at all. I am claiming an artifact of a certain kind – I, alone, will be responsible for that. But I can pay everyone involved quite handsomely in gold. As much as an armada could carry."

I peered at him. "Is there really that much?"

He smiled. "It is a very ancient city. They spent centuries amassing this gold. Try and imagine it . . ."

"Then I have a proposal," I said. "If the gold is of no account to you, then let us bring the Black Pearl as well as the Medusa. Hear me out," I added as he began to object. "Firstly, even without an accord, Jack Sparrow may decide to follow you. He has a nose for treasure. It would be better to make an accord now, because you can get him to agree to terms in advance. Then the Pearl can help defend us if we're attacked by some other rogues. Secondly, I can't help thinking of the Berwick. Perhaps you'll have better luck with two ships than with one?"

"Perfectly reasonable, my dear," he replied with a grin. "I'll follow your counsel." He seemed quite pleased that I was throwing myself into the venture with such enthusiasm.

We returned to the day room, where I made my report. Hector grunted his agreement, and quickly wrote some calculations. He handed the paper to Jeremy, who ran his eye down the list and nodded.

"I'll just see the goldsmith for the money," he told Hector. I hoped he wouldn't run into the dancing woman on his way to the goldsmith. It occurred to me that whatever she had been paid for, it did not include keeping silent.

Then Jeremy made his way out of the room, and I hastened to my cabin. I gathered everything I intended to leave with Elizabeth, and made my way to the dock, where she was waiting with Rufus. I gave her all of my books, my Messenger badge, and my wedding ring.

"And how are you getting on with Barbossa?" she asked, straight to the point.

I shrugged. "I'm doing the best I can. But just at the moment, I'm expecting to provide my own upkeep, and I've thought of a venture that might suit us both, if you're interested." I took a deep breath. "It's smuggling. The duties on everything from salt to brandy are double and quadruple what the cargo costs. I mean to invest in a ship, and take up what we Cornish call the Old Trade. And you're welcome to join if you like – just give it some thought?"

I could see that she found the idea quite appealing. It would certainly be faster than waiting for her Chancery suit and the Governor's estate to be settled. She gave a quick nod. "Thank you. We can discuss it upon your return, but I'm sure I'll be joining in."

We said our farewells, and I watched as Elizabeth and Rufus walked away. I made a mental note to ask Rufus if he might be interested in my venture as well, then I bounded across the Pearl's gangway and made for the captain's quarters.

Jack was alone, save for Maroto, who had come to take his leave before disembarking. I noticed that Maroto had begun to look less like a cleric and more like a man of action. He had retained some of his soldier's attire from Havana, and was now armed with a sword.

I blinked. "Is that a broadsword?" I asked him. He looked embarrassed.

"I find it easier to manage, for some reason," he replied. "Perhaps it is my height." He still had the worn look about him that I had noticed earlier. Evidently the sea air hadn't quite restored his health. I turned to Jack.

"I suppose Pintel and Ragetti have signed on with you, right?" I asked. "Someone's in a temper over that – he's got to replace them both before we set sail. And you're invited, by the by. Same terms as before – you can fill the holds with gold."

"Well done, Brat! I take it you've seen the map, then?" Jack flashed a sparkling grin.

"Indeed I have. But I want to know why anyone would abandon a city of gold."

Jack wasn't bothered. "Ah, well, p'raps the rum was gone."

I glanced at Maroto. "Padre, have you ever heard of a place called Cuidad de Huesos Blanqueados?"

His eyes widened for an instant, then he recovered himself. "The legend, you mean? There was a story concerning a lost city, I believe."

"Perhaps not so lost," I replied.

"Perhaps not." He looked thoughtful, then turned to Jack. "I wish to join your crew."

Jack shook his head. "Sorry, mate. I've got two extra men as it is, savvy? But Barbossa's come up a bit short – perhaps he'll take you on, if you can put up with 'im."

In the end, I brought Maroto to Hector and let him plead his case. After several sidelong looks at me, Hector agreed, being still in a conciliatory humour and wishing to appease me. After Maroto left the room, Hector and I found ourselves face to face and undisturbed for the first time since our dispute.

Hector invited me to take a seat. "Ye still haven't told me what ye know of this Padre," he said.

I answered carefully. "Not a great deal. From what he's told me, his family had some serious point of dispute with the Spanish king. Beyond that I have no idea. I believe it's more important to discover what Jeremy's purpose is."

He thought this over. "And when ye find out? What then?"

"I won't keep it from you," I assured him. "But in the meantime, you mustn't thwart me. I am trying to gain his confidence."

He tightened his hand for a moment, almost making a fist, but he was in no position to set terms, and he knew it. "Norrington's gone t' find one more seadog t' fill the last place. And ye'll be takin' Rufus' duties as ship's doctor," he announced in a raspy growl. "No arguin', if ye please."

"As you wish." I made a little bow, adding wryly, "Pray that we all remain in health." There was no smile from Hector in return. Wondering if we would ever bridge the chasm between us, I left him at his work, intending to take inventory of the surgery.

As I crossed the deck, I saw that Jeremy had returned, and was talking with someone, presumably our new crew member. Jeremy spied me over the man's shoulder, and the man turned round, following Jeremy's gaze. I drew a sharp breath and pulled my hat down as I saw his face, and his bandaged hand. It was none other than Pike, the man whose hand Hector had stabbed at the Faithful Bride.

Next: Chapter 14 – More Precious Than Gold – The expedition begins, Maroto discovers the goal of Jeremy's mission, and Nina takes on a new patient.