Disclaimer: Twilight belongs to Stephanie Meyer
AN: Don't know if this counts as a crossover. I happened to come across my old notebook, a story idea mixed of Twilight characters, and adventures from Pirates of the Caribbean and Alice in Wonderland movies. Warning: borrowed characters from the mentioned movies
Masked Serenade
Summary :
With deliberate slowness, Talon lifted her face, locking her brown eyes onto Alice's betrayed blue gaze. No longer masked, she revealed herself as the lost girl Bella. "I'm sorry, Alice," Bella whispered, her voice freed from the mask's grasp, now a soothing melody akin to a siren's, tugging at Alice's heartstrings with every gentle note.
A large wooden desk sits at the center of the room, cluttered with neatly organized stacks of paperwork and navigational charts piled with books on trade and commerce. The desk is adorned with intricate carvings, reflecting Alice's love for details and craftsmanship. The floor is covered in intricately woven rugs, each bearing patterns that seem to shift and change as one walks over them, akin to the ever-shifting paths that has always reminded Alice of a wonderful place she once had the pleasure of visiting.
Against one wall stands a bookshelf, overflowing with books about sailing, maritime history, and adventure stories. A small teapot and teacup rest on the shelf, a homage to the Mad Hatter's tea party.
Captain Emmett McCarthy couldn't help but smile at the whimsical imagination of his best friend and apprentice, Alice Brandon. A remarkable young woman who defied expectations and contributed significantly to the success of their last two prosperous voyages. Men were enamored by her beauty—her pretty face, striking blue eyes, olive skin, and graceful figure
"Emmett, it seems our route takes us closer and closer to pirate-infested waters." Alice remarked, raising a dark brow as she eyed the navigational charts. She heard him chuckling and couldn't help but roll her eyes.
"They do add a bit of excitement to the journey, my dear Alice." He replied, confidently grinning at her, his deep dimples on display.
Alice sighed, her spirit of a dreamer sometimes feeling at odds with the real dangers they faced. But Captain Emmett's spirit of adventure surpassed her own. As much as she admired his fearlessness, she couldn't help but worry about the high crew turnover due to their perilous encounters scaring off thirds of them. Hiring new labor wasn't cheap.
"Fret not, we can surely navigate with finesse." He assured her.
"Of course, Captain McCarthy. But I do hope we won't have to deal with any troublesome encounters. We have those precious figurine gifts from our associates in China, and your fiancée will be sailing with us this time." She reminded him, giving him a glare that had a surprisingly powerful effect on the big man, making him nervous.
"You're right, Alice. We'll be cautious," he replied, his tone softening as he looked at her with fondness and respect. Then he couldn't resist his usual jubilance. "You know, your short height proves to be an advantage. You can hide behind barrels and take pirates by surprise!"
"Oh, so you're calling me short again, Captain?" Alice threw a balled paper at him.
"I prefer to think of it as being vertically efficient." He defended but mirth dance in his eyes, knowing how his companion hates being looked down for her height.
She just rolled her eyes at him. "Alright, vertically efficient it is then. On a serious note, we have to be cautious. The pirates have been restless lately, victimizing traders in these waters."
"Aye. The British Navy even allied with the French Navy for the next three months to eradicate pirates entirely. It's been pretty gruesome lately."
Just then, Rosalie Hale entered the room, exuding an air of grace and beauty that completed the scene like a fairytale. Her wavy blonde hair and intense violet eyes capturing everyone's attention.
Emmett couldn't resist adoring her. "Looks like we have a true goddess in our midst. Our ship might run amok with all these beautiful women around, but I do not mind. I might just have to retire from captaincy and be at your mercy." He teased with a twinkle in his eye.
Rosalie gave him a glare and playfully sat on his lap, pinching his chest lightly. "Do that, and you're dead, Emmett. I like you in the uniform."
"Yes ma'am!"
Turning to Alice, Rosalie complimented her. "Alice, darling, I trust you and Emmett will have everything ready in no time. Your planning and determination are a match made in heaven."
Alice grinned, appreciating the praise. "Of course, Rosalie. You can count on us. We'll have everything in order before you can say 'smooth sailing'."
"Good. Because we don't want to be caught unprepared and have unwanted companions joining us on our journey." Rosalie gave them a pointed look. "You do know my cousin Jasper is onboarding and serving the British Navy. I heard he's on his way to formally congratulate you and planning to send you off properly."
Alice groaned at the mention of her ex-fiancé, Jasper Whitlock, who always found a way to pester her about marriage. Emmett chimed in, "Well, let's hurry up then. I hate the guy anyway."
Rosalie chuckled, lightly smacking Emmett on the head. "Careful, that douchebag is still my cousin."
Following Rosalie's instructions, just as their ship set sail with fluttering sails, Jasper arrived on horseback with his men. Instead of hurrying to catch up with the British Navy ship nearby, he understood the futility of preparing the navy vessel to accompany them within national waters at their current pace.
He was dressed in his immaculate uniform - a dark blue coat with brass buttons on the front and cuffs. A crisp white shirt adorned with a perfectly tied black silk cravat, along with a high-standing collar embellished with golden embroidery, added an air of regal sophistication. Completing the ensemble were neatly pressed and perfectly fitted trousers, tucked into polished black leather boots that gleamed in the sunlight.
On his head, a military cap donned a golden badge, fittingly accentuating his strong features and serious demeanor. With every stride, his uniform emanated an air of authority and honor. Yet, in Alice's eyes, she could discern the perilous and unyielding glimmer in his eyes since that very day. To her, he embodied a man with self-centered motives, a composed manipulator. Despite his military rank and polished charm captivating her family, she knew that behind closed doors, he revealed himself as monstrous as a Jabberwocky.
As Captain Whitlock stepped onto the deck, a naval officer greeted him with an urgent report. "Captain Whitlock, we've acquired a clue regarding the whereabouts of the criminal, Elizabeth Swann Turner."
Jasper nodded thoughtfully, his gaze fixated on a distant ship dotting the western horizon. Turning his attention back to the officer, he spoke in a composed yet commanding tone.
"Share the information."
"Witnesses claim she was seen with some notorious pirates known to be part of her crew. Some have heard she's heading to Tortuga."
"Tortuga, huh? A bold move for her." Jasper mused, considering the implications.
"Indeed, Captain. Shall we set course immediately and apprehend her?" The officer asked, eager to act swiftly.
"Not just yet..." Jasper replied, holding a hand up to halt any hasty action that ease them immediately. "We must be cautious and strategic. Gather more intel on her current crew and their activities. I want to know who else might be in her company."
"Understood, Captain." The officer acknowledged. "We'll proceed with discretion and gather all the information we can."
With their orders clear, Jasper watched as the officer quickly assembled the crew to carry out their investigative mission, their smaller ship sailing steadily toward the horizon.
Emerging from the shadows, another officer and a part of his brotherhood appeared, dressed inconspicuously in civilian attire.
"Edward, I trust you have more valuable information than that old lying croone." Captain Whitlock addressed him sternly.
Edward Cullen, a strikingly handsome man with light stubble gracing his face, managed to crook a smile at the ever-stiff captain.
"It's a pleasure to see you again, Captain Whitlock." Edward replied politely. "If I may ask, considering your suspicion of your officer's dishonesty, why not make an arrest before allowing them to set sail?"
His eyes held a glimmer of curiosity, challenging the captain's decision. Edward watched as Jasper glanced at him before making his way to his quarters. Left on the deck alone, he knew all too well how his friend was orchestrating their destiny above the treacherous waters of their daring new plans.
The royal commander's relentless pursuit to eradicate piracy and open new trade routes actually masks a darker agenda, tipping the scale of balance in the sea and justice. As Edward disembarked from the ship and made his way through the bustling port, he skillfully navigated the crowded streets until he found an inconspicuous alley, ensuring no one trailed him. Edward reminded himself to appear approachable for the comfort of the patients in the line of sick beds tended to by a man, Dr. Carlisle Cullen, and his caring wife, Esme.
"You're back." Esme's soft, motherly voice exclaimed as they shared a brief hug.
"Esme, you have always been a soothing presence for my weary eyes, exhausted from gazing at the horizon for days." He praised her, grateful for her nurturing care since he lost his own mother.
Exuding a radiant and captivating presence, she possesses a breathtaking beauty that enchants both men and women. Her lively light green eyes, framed by caramel hair and flawless skin, add to her allure. Moreover, her alluring fragrance evokes fond memories of home, enveloping those around her in a comforting embrace.
As for her husband, he is a highly esteemed doctor, radiating compassion and offering reassurance to his patients with his calming blue gaze. To those less fortunate, he is akin to a saint, and to others, he embodies the essence of a prince charming, with his blonde hair, gentle smile, and captivating baby blue eyes.
Dr. Carlisle Cullen rose to embrace his adopted son after his arduous journey. "I'm glad you're back, my son. We have so much to talk about."
With a nod, Edward lowered his voice, "Before that, Carlisle, I came here primarily to deliver a message."
The three of them glanced around cautiously until Carlisle gestured towards the direction upstairs. The two followed him, leaving the secret basement filled with recovering patients, until they reached a private doctor's office. Making sure no one could overhear them, Carlisle spoke with evident concern.
"Son, I fear we lack sufficient resources to provide comfort to the rescued men, women and children. It's been three weeks since we last heard from Lady Elizabeth, and the plan to transport our patients to safety, away from the eyes of the navy and human traffickers, is still pending. However, we've taken the necessary steps to prepare the required documents for their return to their homeland. All that remains is to execute the plan and bring them to safety and freedom."
With a tender touch, Esme massaged her husband's tense shoulders, then offering Edward a reassuring smile.
"The women and children are doing well. However, we're worried about Lady Elizabeth. Have you received any news about her whereabouts? Is she safe?"
Esme and Elizabeth Swann shared a close friendship, staying in contact even as Elizabeth embraced a life at sea, rescuing slaves along the way. The thought of her dear friend, whom she considered like a sister, constantly facing danger troubled Esme deeply. Upon hearing the unfortunate tragedy that befell Elizabeth years ago, she took it upon herself to share in her grief and support her in any way she could. Of course, her family felt a sense of duty as well to be a bridge to freedom.
"I have been exceedingly cautious in my search for Auntie Elizabeth during my journey. Unfortunately, I stumbled upon grave secrets entwining the British Navy and certain Pirate Lords." Edward confessed with trepidation, taking a seat across from them. "Auntie Elizabeth did lost contact, but it was for good measures, you see. It became evident when her trusted crew delivered their message."
"What did they say?" Carlisle inquired, leaning forward, fully engrossed in finding a way to assist the rescued women and children.
"Since the Whitlocks were displeased with losing their 'commodities' over the past year, the Italian Volturi family reached out to connect them with despicable pirate lords, offering a company for the safe journey of their vassals. However, Auntie Elizabeth's defiance towards supporting the brutality of slavery soon drew the attention of the pirate lords," Edward continued.
Even Carlisle's once gentle face now darkened with anger upon hearing about the Italian Volturi family. Aro Volturi, like a kraken, extended his influence into politics, underground businesses, and even piracy to maximize his gains. Lately, he had become more active in British politics, and his true intentions remained unclear yet deeply concerning.
With a heavy heart, Edward turned to Esme and relayed the distressing message from the crew.
"After years of providing the authorities with information about the pirates' whereabouts and secrets, Auntie Elizabeth was found guilty of breaking their code. Her last journey involved liberating men and women from slavery in the waters near Spain, and this has led the Pirate Lords to seek her death." Edward explained with a somber tone.
"The Whitlocks, as you know, have positioned Jasper Whitlock in the navy with some help from the Volturi, and they are more than willing to assist in this pursuit. Additionally, I overheard that the Pirate Lords and the Whitlocks, together with the Volturi, are involved in something else that might ignite a dangerous conflict upon the seas. Though I'm unsure of the details, I did my best to provide the necessary information to Auntie Elizabeth."
Edward hoped his last words would somehow bring comfort to his mother, who placed her hand over her chest, fearing the looming threats towards her dearest friend, Elizabeth.
Carlisle rose from his seat, crossing his arms as he absorbed the information. Then he turned to Edward with a hopeful expression.
"I've heard about the McCarthy's and a certain daring young Brandon who are gaining recognition in their trades. It's said that their vessels are never involved in illegal or exploitative activities." Carlisle said, seeking more insight. "Have you personally met any of them, son?"
"Yes, Carlisle. Unfortunately, they just departed, heading to Spain with their commodities." Edward responded. "I had the opportunity to meet them briefly, and I can attest that they stand in stark contrast to the reputations of the Whitlocks. Captain Alice Brandon, a daring young woman, was supposed to marry Jasper Whitlock, but she chose to uphold her father's vision of clean trading and withdrew her hand from the marriage."
Hearing about the bold move of the new trader, especially a woman making a name for herself, Carlisle's heart swelled with admiration. He clasped the hands of his wife, who was searching his face for courage, and smiled down at her, kissing her temple before turning his attention back to his son.
"Do you think I can request their audience and perhaps their help while Lady Elizabeth hides away for safety, Edward?" Carlisle inquired hopefully.
Edward stood up, his smile widening. "I believe in our brief meeting, we can trust them. I'm sure they will be willing to extend their help."
Amidst the lively celebration, tankards passed from hand to hand, and merry songs filled the air, urging them to dance along. Yet, in the corner, a foreboding presence lingered, casting an aura of unapproachability. The figure, obscured by a dark sea-like entity, remained motionless and barely touched the feast prepared by their host.
"What's the celebration?" His voice emerged muffled and deathly through an iron jaw mask, sending shivers down the spines of those who dared to listen.
"Didn't ya hear, Talon? The Pirate King is cold! Dead, hahaha! Drowned to the deepest trench!" A crew member exclaimed with a spit, seemingly unbothered by the dark figure's eerie presence.
Talon froze upon hearing the news. "Is she?"
"Oh yes. Want a drink, boy?" The crew member asked, attempting to lighten the mood.
Talon's expression turned lethal, causing the celebration to halt abruptly, and the crew quickly backed away in fear of him as he stood up. His deadly brown eyes fixated on the rude mate.
"Are you mocking me?"
"N-No. I was carried away, Talon. Forgive my offense." The mate stammered, profusely apologizing, visibly terrified.
Talon turned away from the party, gazing into the darkness, before disappearing without a word. The crew's fear lingered in the air as the once vibrant celebration now held an aura of apprehension.
I'm having a bit fun with this. Oh yeah, warning again just borrowed characters from Alice in Wonderland and Pirates of the Carribbean because I just really love the adventure.