manyfaces1

CHAPTER 16 - Jack's Reactions

"Liz! You hissed, turning quickly. Where did she disappear to?! That bloody woman....tricking you like this! Probably the last person you wanted to see you in this get up was Jack! You twirled around at the top of the stairs, looking for her. You didn't see her. Sighing, you turn to face them. Will stood at the bottom of the stairs, smiling faintly, a look of approval on his features. Next to him stood Jack, dressed as usual in his pirate garb. Oh how you envied him! His jaw was slack, usually animated hand froze in the air beside his chest. You bit the inside of your lip uncomfortably, not wanting to move.

"Well come now. You can't stand there all day!" Will laughed, and your eyes darted down to your feet. Liz had insisted on you wearing these ridiculous shoes, with heels about 2 inches high. Hesitantly stepping down, you reached for the railing unsteadily. After wobbling down the rest of the stairs, Will bowed slightly, brushing his lips against your hand in the proper greeting.

"Captain. You look absolutely ravishing." He smiled, and you winced.

"Uh, thanks, Will." He nodded, and made his way to the carriage waiting outside. This left you standing with Jack, who had still hardly moved, except to follow your progress down the stairs. He closed his mouth, looking at you.

"Jack, it can't be *that* bad...I mean....Liz....she...well I know it's a little, girly, and a little ruffly....and a little silly, but....." he grabbed your hand, softly bringing it to his lips. His kissed it, eyes never leaving yours.

"Don't be silly, luv. Ye look amazin'." You grinned, pleased at his reaction. He winked, and eyed the rest of your body. His eyes lingered on your now visible chest. You smacked him on the side of his head.

"Jack! Jest cuz I'm dressed like this doesn't mean ye can let yer eyes wander all over, got it?" he nodded and grinned. You turned and followed Will to the driveway. This was going to be one hell of a long evening...

* * *

"Oh Helloooo!!! Darling, you just *have* to try the prawns. They're simply delectable!"

"....I heard he was planning on proposing this week. The lucky girl!..."

"Why, Annette! How lovely to see you again! How is your husband? Still with the Guard, eh?"

You rolled your eyes for about the 200th time this evening. These people were imbeciles! They talked about unimportant things, and pranced around with their fancy noses in the air. Suddenly a voice was at your elbow.

"Excuse me, miss. May I have a word? Outside?" Startled, you spin around. Jack stood behind you, hidden by the shadows. Grinning, you nod and follow him out to the balcony. He was leaning against the railing, the ocean at his back. In this light, he looked so amazing and irresistible.

Resist!

"Yes, Jack? Ye wanted somethin'?" you ask daintily, sticking your nose in the air like the people in the fort. He laughed deeply, and you did too. Walking over to him, you leaned on the railing beside him. He turned to look at you. He simply looks at you for what seems like forever. You wave a hand in front of his non-responsive features.

"Ja-ack! Heeeellooooooo!" you laugh. "Jack! Honestly! Did you want something or------"

You were cut off as his lips crashed against yours, his hands sliding around you dramatically reduced waist. You whimpered. This was nothing like the other kisses. It was rough, wild, and impulsive. And you loved it. He silently asked for permission to enter, and you granted it. His tongue probed your mouth, flicking slyly at your teeth. Pure heaven.

One problem: you couldn't breathe. At all. Your lungs were screaming for oxygen.

You push him off your quickly, gasping for air, and wince at the sharp pain in your side every time you do.

'Bloody corset!' you think frantically clawing at your chest.

"Ey? Luv? Ye ok?"

"Yea.... Bloody corset....can't breathe....one sec..." you breathe in slowly but deeply, filling your lungs as much as the restricting thing would allow.

"Ye ok?" Jack asked nervously, holding onto your shoulders.

You take in another breath, and nod.

"Yea. I'm fine jest....lay off the kissing for tonight, Jack." He pouted, and you chuckled.

"But ye look so......so...." he waved his hands around, looking for the word.

"So.....ridiculous? Silly?" you supplied. "Outrageous? Out-of-place? That's how I feel. Strange. Frilly. Bloody b--------"

"Beautiful was more what I was thinkin'. Gorgeous. And absolutely kissable." You blushed deeply, hoping it would be hidden by the shadows.

* * * *

"...Beautiful was more what I was thinkin'. Gorgeous. And absolutely kissable." said Jack. The girl blushed deeply, and amazing color of pink that tinged her cheeks, neck, and now visible chest.

'Mary mother o' Jesus. Have mercy....' thought Jack desperately, looking at the curves of her breasts. His grip tightened on the rail of the balcony, and he struggled to keep his breathing even. Jesus! It wasn't bad when she simply blushed like any other person; a shameful or embarrassed color rising to her face. But now! Oh god! Lord have mercy on his poor soul!

"Are ye ok, Jack?" He looked up abruptly, and nodded.

"Yep! Jest dandy." She looked at him curiously, wondering what he was hiding from her. She shrugged, deciding to let it go.

"Then if there's nothing else.....I'd like to go find Liz and persuade her to leave." Jack jut nodded, and she smiled. Turning, she walked slowly back into the party, wondering what on earth was wrong with Jack.

"Holy Shit." breathed Jack when she was gone. He turned and leaned out over the rail, breathing in deep the salty air. He listened for a moment to the sea slapping against the rocks below. Deciding on his plan of action, he walked swiftly through the party, taking care to stay in the shadows. He had been invited, but Will said he would have had to wear something nice. So he declined. He slid into the side room where the coats and purses we kept. He cast a longing glance at the many rich and no doubt full purses on the shelf, but he shook his head. These people were friends with Elizabeth, and stealing from them would only give her a bad name. He stood in the shadows, waiting for the girl to come get her cloak.

* * * *

"Liz!" you hissed. "Liz! Can we go?"

Liz turned around, chuckling. She was holding a champagne glass, and you raised an eyebrow. Weren't you not supposed to drink when you were nursing? She saw your look, and sighed.

"I know, I know. It's cider. At a place like this, I have to feel like a grown-up, even if I can't drink." You nod, and she casts a look around.

"I suppose we can start heading out now. It seems like people are leaving anyways. Why don't you get your coat, and I'll find Will. Could you grab mine too? My purse is the blue one----did you see it?" you nod, and make your way to the side room where you had put your stuff when you arrived. Sliding in, you closed the door behind you, and leaned on it.

"Oh thank God. Those people are insufferable." You breathed. Somewhere in the darkness, a voice chuckled. A familiar voice.

"Jack? Is that you? What the hell are ye doing in here?" He walked into the room, grinning.

"This." He walked swiftly towards you, caging your between the door and his body. He rested his hands on the door, and pressed his lips to your own bruised ones. He kissed you slowly, allowing you to breathe. You moved slowly into the middle of the room. You wove your hands behind his neck, pulling him closer. His hands rested along your jaw; a touch that set fire to your limbs.

"Jack..." he kissed your jaw. "I said none o' this." The door creaked open, and you sprang apart. A small woman appeared, and looked at Jack, startled.

"How dare you!" you hissed, pointing your finger at Jack angrily. "You scum! I can't believe ye..." you trailed off after the woman grabbed her purse and coat hurriedly and closed the door behind her. Then you flew to Jack, wrapping your arms around his shoulders and meeting his lips. He kissed you back, and moved you against the wall. You felt your back pushed up against the cold wood, and Jack warm body press on your front. The door opened again, and you slipped out from under his arms.

"You bastard! You lying, cheating, son-of-a-bitch! I hope ye burn in the fires of hell fer all eternity!" Again the person looked around nervously, grabbed his things, and scurried out. Instantly Jack was at your mouth, hungrily possessing you. And *again* the door opened. You jumped back once again.

'Jeeeeeeeezzzzz----us!' you thought angrily. 'Can't we have jest a moment of privacy!!! And I'm running out of things to yell at him!'

"Your mother was a whore and you father was a bastard! You're a pathetic excuse fer a Captain, and yer little *boat* is nothing more than a scrap of wood. Jest leave me alone!" you roll your eyes in the dark as the person rushes out, closing the door with a snap behind him. You rush back over to Jack, kissing his lips, and his jaw. Suddenly you stop. Jack's simply standing there, looking down at you. His hands are on your hips.

"Ja-ack?" you whine. "Why won't ye kiss me?"

"That one hurt, lass."

"Oh! Oh, Jack! Ye know I meant none of it! I was jest blabbering! I meant nothin' about yer Pearl, and I know how much ye miss it, and what with Barbosa an' all..." you stammered for words, only making him more miserable.

"Insert: Foot in Mouth." you mumble, eliciting a small chuckle from Jack.

"Ok. So I killed the mood. Le's jest go then. Lizzie's expecting us." You look around, grab her purse, jacket, and your jacket, then back at Jack. He clears his throat, and you frown.

"What?"

"Well, perhaps ye should.....uh...." he gestured with his hands wildly. "Fix yerself up."

You stood in front of the mirror, and found your hair wild around your head, and you dress had slipped down over a shoulder. Straightening the dress, you tried valiantly to flatter your hair. After a few minutes, it looked slightly better, but not much. You sighed.

"Oh well. That'll have to do...." you turn around, but don't find Jack. Looking round the room, you growl.

"*NOT* in the mood for hide-n-seek. So if yer bloody in here, I'm leavin'" you marched out, grabbing the purse and jackets. You find Will standing outside the carriage, and he smiles when he sees you.

"Finally! You have Liz's purse? Thank you! Hop in!" you smile back, and step up the small retractable steps into the carriage. Once inside, you find Jack sitting calmly next to Liz. They're both looking at you. Jack somewhat longingly again, and Liz somewhat curiously. Pausing for a moment, you decide to ignore it.

"Oy! Where the hell'd ye disappear t'??" you ask accusingly, and Jack only raises an eyebrow. Huffing and shaking your head, you sit down next to him. It was either him or Liz, and you weren't to keen on having your ear talked off the entire time. Although, on second thought, you probably were anyways. Will climbed in, and the carriage started off.

"Did you see Miss Plainwell? Her engagement ring is lovely! I am so happy for those two. They make the perfect couple. And..." you sigh, staring blankly out the window next to you. The entire way back to the Turner Mansion, you listened to the rain beat down on the carriage, and Liz chatter on and on. despite your best efforts at making it miserable, you had had an amazing evening. You let a small smile escape, and turned again to watch the rain.

* * * *

Jack sat silently for the entire ride home, watching the girl. His eyes never left her. He twirled his braids absently mindedly, and small smile on his lips. Occasionally Liz or Will would steal a glance at him and the girl, but neither noticed. Liz looked back and forth between the two, and smiled knowingly. Then she turned back to Will to continue telling him of the hideous color of so-and-so's dress.

* * * * *

CHAPTER 17 - In The Rain

When the carriage arrived back at the Turner Mansion, Jack had not moved or spoken at all. He still sat, back against the side of the coach, with his adoring eyes on the girl. Who was now asleep. Her head leant against the cold window, her chest rising and falling unevenly. Her breathing was labored, no doubt by that god forsaken corset. Jack had had his first encounters with them in Singapore. Women there wore them so tight they frequently fainted right there in the streets. Despite their social appeal, and the idea that woman should be thin as a stick, Jack hated them. Especially on her. It distorted her beautiful body. She had graceful curves, and a strong body he could not wait to examine in more detail. Her face, what a picture. Jack could completely lose himself in those stormy eyes. When she was angry at him, they sparkled and danced with fire, crashing and brimming with energy, like the ocean. When she laughed, they danced, lighting up wonderfully.

"Jack?" Liz's voice halted his mental worship of her body.

"Hmm?" he replied, snapping to.

"I was saying, what should we do with her?"

Jack sighed dramatically. No use in them thinking he liked her any more than he should.

"I suppose I'll carry 'er."

"I could do it." piped in Will, and Jack glared at him.

"No. I'll be fine. Ye'd collapse. She's strong, this one. I'll carry 'er. Ye two get t' bed. Thank ye, Will, Liz, fer the fine evenin'. Sleep well." He said all this quickly, moving his eyes back to the slumbering beauty. The two Turners left the carriage, and only then did Jack move. He slid over to her, brushing the hair off of her face. She slept on. Slipping an arm under her knees, he let her fall back against his other arm. Her head rested on his chest. Stepping lithely through the small doorway, he nodded to the driver. He stood, enraptured, in the middle of the driveway.

"Bloody hell, she really is beautiful..." he mumbled, looking down at her. Only when she stirred uncomfortably did he notice it was raining. He hurried into the mansion, nodding his thanks to the maid who held open the door for him. When he reached his room, he looked blankly at the doorknob. A maid appeared from behind him, scaring him half to death.

"Thank ye. And fer gods sake, next time announce yer arrival. Scared the shit outta me." The girl nodded, and closed the door behind Jack. He placed the girl down on the bed, and rolled her onto her stomach. Nimbly untying the laces of her dress, her pushed it out of he way. He struggled with the laces of the corset, before striding over to the dresser and grabbing his dagger. Returning to the girl, he sliced through the stubborn laces. They sprung free, and the corset jumped apart. The girl sighed audibly, and he grinned. Rolling her back over, he decided to leave the dress on. He knew she'd be more comfortable know that he didn't undress her. However much he longed to.

"Maybe jest a peek..." he mumbled, reaching for the collar. He drew his hand back, and frowned.

"No. 'At's not my way." Sighing, he took off his boots, bandana, and belt. He climbed in bed, pulling the girl up beside him. Her bare back rested against his bare chest, and he nearly threw all will power and tore off the dress. He kissed her head, and closed his eyes.

"G'night, pet."

* * * *

"Not the bloody rum!"

You bolt upright, looking around wildly. Looking down at Jack, you see him frowning, and tossing.

"Not the rum! Please! No!" He's dreaming, and you chuckle. Looking down, you realize your dress is still loosely around you. Reaching behind you, you realize the laces are undone and the corset is as well. Thank God. Looking out the window, you see it's still pouring. You get up and walk over to the huge bay window, peering out into the night. The window overlooks the huge driveway, and from it you can see the ocean, rolling and slapping the rocks at the shore. Then you turn, and search the room for your shirt and breeches. Finding them clean and folded in a drawer, you throw them on. You keep checking the bed, making sure Jack's still sleeping. Satisfied that he's not waking any time in the near future, you silently slip out the door, and steal down the grand staircase. It's still pitch black, and the sun is showing no signs of rising within the next couple hours.

"Perfect." You whisper to yourself, sliding out the front door and closing it noiselessly behind you. Finally you stand on the porch, the rain pounding down hard on the gravel of the driveway. You smile, and rush out into the night. Standing in the middle of the driveway, you spread your arms wide and lifted your face to the heavens. And silently you began to twirl. And things were as you remembered them.

You and your father, working together, bringing terror to the seas, but in the best way possible if you get my drift. You thought about your father, and were surprised to find it didn't hurt anymore. It was simply nice to think back and enjoy the memories you had had together. And there had been a lot. India, where you had tried to convince your father to steal a tiger for you. He came back with a monkey. How delighted you were. The little critter perched happily on your shoulder, chittering all the time. You had named him Basta, and he attached himself to you. He would touch no one else, except for sometimes your father. And in Singapore, where you had to finally go out on your own. For several months, you had needed something for your new breasts. An undershirt, a brassiere (preferably the former), anything. And you were too ashamed to tell your father. So one night, you snuck from the ship, and went into town. Finding the appropriate store, you climbed in an open window. You couldn't understand anything the signs said, because it was all in Japanese. But a voice had come from the other room, so you hurried grabbed the closest thing to you, and scrambled back out the window. When you got back to the ship, your father was waiting. After explaining, he had asked what you had got. When you showed him, he burst out laughing. A corset. It was a bloody corset. You had asked him how to wear it, and he had shown you, placing it around you. He promised to find something next time, and you received two days work in the galley for sneaking off ship.

'My god,' you thought happily. 'that was ages ago....'

You turned your thoughts to Jack, hopefully still asleep in the room. You remembered looking for the first time into his beautiful eyes, a deep chocolate colour that beckoned to you like a light in a storm. You thought of how he quirked an eyebrow sexily every time he looked at you. You thought of how he walked, it was more of a sauntering really. His hips sway rhythmically, hands delicately flowing through the air around him, as if ready to catch himself when he falls. You thought of how his eyes glazed over when he talked of his Pearl, and how strangely he had been looking at you recently. You thought of what his reaction to Anabelle's question, the silence filled with thousands of words. You thought of how you felt whenever you looked at him, how your breath caught in your throat, and you heart missed a beat every time he smiled at you. You thought finally of how he loved you, how he looked at you the same we he looked at his Pearl. He had way to much pirate in him to tell you he loved you, and you as well. It went unspoken, neither of you knowing really that the other knew.

"Oy! What on earth ye doin' lass?!" Jack's voice rang out over the rain, and you stop spinning.

'Whoa!' you stumbled, the world still twirling rapidly behind your eyes. You braced your legs, turning to the house. You caught glimpses of Jack as your eyes slowly adjusted to the change in motion.

"C'mon!" you yelled back, trying to focus your eyes on Jack. He was standing under the porch, wearing his breeches.

"What?" he called out incredulously. You ran unsteadily towards him. Grabbing his arm, you pulled him back out into the driveway with you.

"I said c'mon. Jest spin." You started spinning again, waving your hands through the rain. You were soaked through.

"Jest try it. It's amazing. I used t' do this all the time on me dad's ship. When it was stormin', I'd be on deck spinning in the rain!" you called out as you spun.

"Whoops!" you tripped, falling forward dizzily. Jack caught you, folding his arms around your sopping wet body. You sigh, leaning your face against his chest. Suddenly his hand grabbed yours, and the other stayed tight around your waist. Then you were both spinning, dancing madly around the driveway. You laughed happily, and Jack chuckled.

"Ye sure are a queer one, luv. No tellin' what ye'll do next. It's invigoratin'." You just grinned, and threw your head back to catch the raindrops in your mouth. Jack dipped you, and you laughed loudly. Looking up at his delicious eyes, you grinned.

"'At's 'cause in one o' the greatest Captains o' the Spanish Main. No---- not jest the Spanish Main. The entire world! All seven o' the seas!"

"Are ye drunk, pet?"

"Yessir!"

"Well why didn't ye call me? Where's the rum?" he cried out indignantly. You chuckled.

"Not on rum, dear Jack. On life. Ye should try it. No hangovers!" with that, you raced down the drive, heading for the beach. You streaked through the streets, screaming wildly, feet practically flying over the rough pavement. When you reached the beach, you dropped your back onto the sand and felt the rain on your face. You yawned hugely, placing your hands behind your head. You felt the place where Gibbs had hit you with the bottle of rum, but that seemed ages ago. Sighing happily, you fell asleep right there on the beach, rain falling on your face, ocean lapping at your feet.

* * * * *

CHAPTER 18 - The Stella

"Rise and shine sleepin' beauty!"

Jack's voice burst into your head, and he flung back the heavy drapes covering the windows. The room was suddenly flooded with bright sunlight. You moaned and put your pillow over your head.

"Go away...." you mumbled. You felt the bed move as Jack climbed onto it. You scrunched into a smaller ball, wiling pitifully.

"I'm bloody tired! Jest go away!" Suddenly Jack starts jumping on the bed, sending your body bouncing around wildly.

"I carried ye...." Jack cried over your small squeals, "...all the way from that bloody beach t' here...." more bouncing, "...and yer tired? Besides, ye have t' get up. Yer the Captain. And we leave t'day." He jumps one last time, then leaps off the bed. You sit up, brushing the hair back from your face.

"We leave t'day? T'day!? When---? How---? What ship did ye find?"

"Named 'The Stella.' She's a beaut. C'mon. We leave in an hour."

"An hour!!!?!?!"

"Yep. Get yer stuff, and meet me down at the dock in 15 minutes." With that, Jack walked out of the room, closing the door quietly behind him.

"I thought I was the Captain..." you mumbled as you began to throw your clothes into a small bag Liz had left at the end of your bed. You slipped out of your clothes, pulling on a fresh white tunic and brown breeches. You straightened your bandana, and surveyed yourself in the small mirror over the dresser. The face of a Captain stared back at you. Grinning proudly, you swung your bag over your shoulder, and flew down to the docks to meet your crew and your new ship.

* * * *

"Alright mates. Here's the deal. There's only two guards to that ship, and no one on board yet. Anna, can ye take care o' the guards?" you looked to your best friend, and she nodded curtly.

"Aye. Leave them t' me." You grinned, and turned to the men. I want ye on that ship as soon as the guards are out of that way. Prepare to leave port, but make sure ye stay unseen. Jack---Captain Sparrow," you corrected yourself under his glare. "You will be at the wheel, seeing as it's yer ship we're after. Will, take Anabelle below deck and keep her there. Not matter what. And Anabelle..." you crouched down so you were eye level with the excited girl. "Can ye keep quiet?" she nodded eagerly, her tiny fist clutched around another small stick. You had to admit, Liz had kind of overdone the pirate motif....Anabelle was wearing a simple shirt and pants, but had small plastic necklaces wrapped around her neck, a bandana tied around her head, and a belt fastened around her waist. Nevertheless, it was cute. She thrust her 'sword' through her belt, looking at you with shining eyes. "Good. No worries then. Everyone got it?"

"Aye!"

You pulled Anna aside, talking quietly to her.

"Ye'll be ok?" She nodded strongly. You looked at her, worried. She was as strong as anyone could be, never faltering when it came to carrying out her duties. Most of the time. Sometimes she....

You shook your head, determined not to think the worst of the situation.

"Right then. Places! Anna, do yer thing." Your best friend winked, and then sauntered off towards the two guards. She exchanged a few words with them, flashing a dazzling smile the entire time. You shook you head in wonder. How did she do it? Soon she had the men completely engrossed in something she was saying. You signaled to the men to creep aboard the ship. They all slunk off slowly, except for Jack who was sauntering proudly in front of them all. Will dragged Anabelle along behind him. You stayed behind to make sure everything went well, and that Anna made it safely onto the boat.

You could no longer see your crew; they had disappeared into the hull of the huge vessel. Smiling triumphantly, you turned to Anna.

"Come on, love. Come on....please don't fail me now..." you whispered hushedly. Her laughter floated up to you, followed by the deeper laughter of the guards. Out of the corner of your eyes, you thought you saw something like Jack flit across the deck of your soon-to-be ship. One of the guards said something, and the other laughed. Anna's casual charade crumbled. Her face turned stony, her eyes searching frantically for you. You knew that look. You had seen it so many times during your years together. Often at night, Anna hurried into your room only to stand frozen in the doorway, face painted with pain. It was her family. One of the most famous, and lets face it, few pirating families in the oceans. Every raid, they made as a family. Her father, mother, older brother, and younger sister had all been hung in India for piracy, and she had barely escaped. She fled to Tortuga, where you met her after being discarded by the crew of the Hellfire. You two had immediately clicked, since you both came from the same trouble and pain. Both lost a family at an early age, and still occasionally felt the effects of it. You watched in horror as her eyes found you, and soon after, the eyes of the guards. Jumping up, they shouted towards you.

"Jack! Now!" you cried out, scrambling up the bridge you had been ducking under. Your eyes searched frantically for some way to save both your skin and those of your crew, and they fell upon some sort of contraption, wood and rope. Grabbing a rope, you loosely wrapped it around your hips, securing it around your foot like your father had taught you. Looking to the Stella, Jack was standing at the helm, barking orders to your crew who was madly racing about the deck, raising sails and pulling up the anchor. You pushed yourself off of the bridge, swinging to the still fearful form of Anna. You struck your hand down, reaching with all your might.

"Grab on!" you called to her, and she nodded, some of her colour returning. She clasped her hand around your wrist, and you swung her the extra twenty yards to the ship. Dropping her neatly on the deck, several crew members rushed to her. You swung backwards, passing the guards again.

"Hey you! You're not allowed on there! Oy!" you grinned, and pushed off the bridge towards the ship again. You unraveled the rope from around you, so you would be able to jump unhindered onto the Stella. On a whim, as you flew past the two guards again, you reached down and grabbed those bloody red and white feathered hats they wore. They shrieked indignantly, but you were already dropping onto the deck, landing smoothly on your feet.

"To the Pearl!" you cried out, and the men around you cheered. You placed one of the ridiculous hats on your head, and sauntered to the head of your new ship, where Jack was grinning at you.

"Nice job, luv. Couldn'a done better meself. Well, actually I coulda, but ye.." you laughed, and wandered off to put down your stuff and your new hats. You found the captain quarters easily enough, seeing as the door had a gold plate embedded in it saying "Captain's Quarters." You opened the door, and were severely disappointed. It was nothing like the Pearl's. The room was drab, and had one full sized bed, and no window. The attached bathroom was simply a small tub, and that was it. You threw down the bag you had been carrying, and looked at the hat in your hands. You found a name inside the rim.

"Murtog."

You read aloud, nearly choking on laughter. Murtog. What a name. Plucking the other one off your head, you examined its rim.

"Mulroy."

Murtog and Mulroy. Well, it did have a ring to it, even if they were two insanely ridiculous names. You threw them down on the bed too, and headed back to the helm.

"Murtog and Mulroy." you chuckled.

* * * * *

CHAPTER 19 - The Pearl

The crew of the Stella had been at sea for over a week now. Every day, Jack could be found standing at the helm, staring off into the distance. Often times you simply stood next to him, watching as he lovingly steered the vessel closer to his Pearl. One day he turned to you.

"We're getting closer, I can feel it." He grinned, and turned back to the wheel. You sighed, and looked around for Anna. To tell the truth, life on the sea wasn't very exciting at the moment. Sure, it was great when you were off on adventures, searching for treasure (which you supposed you were) and being a pirate. In the eight days you had been out at sea, you hadn't crossed the path of a single ship. Or a town. Not even a bloody storm. Just calm, quiet weather. Absolutely boring. You slouched down to the galley.

"Anna!" you hollered, seating yourself at one of the small tables.

"Aye?" she yelled back from somewhere. She emerged from a door that led back to the kitchen, grinning at your frustrated disposition. You smirked and patted the bench next to you. She sat down, turning to you.

"Jack?" she said, plainly, eyes on your face. You gaped. How did she know you so well?

"What on earth....no!...um..." she laughed, and you scowled.

"Don't ye lie to me, missy. What is it now? He's ignoring you? You feel left out? He doesn't love you back? What's yer trauma?" you gaped again at her plain expression, and her straight face. How on earth did she know all these things? She was, like, some super-freaky pathatelic...umm, telepathetic...naw, *telepathic*! person. You sighed.

"I think he does love me back, but he won't say it. Not that I'm gonna say it, I mean----Hey! How did you know that....that I....ye know...that I.."

"That ye love him?" finished Anna, winking at you slyly. You blushed.

"Easy, pet. Of all the years I've know ye, I've never seen ye so beautiful."

"um....Thanks, but that really has nothing to do with it." you state lamely. Anna laughs.

"Course it does. I don't mean like a physical difference, naw. Ye'v always been quite pretty, no it's not that. It's how your entire face glows every time someone talks about him. It's how I see yer hands flit excitedly at yer side whenever he's near. I see how ye look a him when ye think no one's looking, I see how yer eyes are positively alive when he talks to you. I don't miss a thing, luv. Yer in love with him deep. Don't try an' tell me yer not. Why, even now yer blushing like a fruit." By now Anna was grinning fully, and you were staring at the table, absolutely speechless. You slowly brought your eyes up to her face, and smiled slightly.

"He is magnificent, isn't he.....?" Anna laughed, and hugged you tight. You laughed, and smiled at her.

"Ye won't tell 'im, will ye?" you asked anxiously.

"Wouldn't dream of it." You breathed a sigh of relief. You both sit silently for a few minutes, until you speak up.

"But he is amazing, isn't he? His beautiful brown eyes....and the way he walks...he---" You break off, casting a sly glance at Anna. "...he protects me. And when we sleep, he kinda curls around me. He protects me Anna. He's really quite perfect..." you stare off in space, seeing his laughing eyes and striking features. You silent reverie of him is disturbed by a short snort from Anna. Snapping to, you turn to find her chortling at you.

"Oy! Yer the one who made this all touchy!" you cry in indignation. She only laughs harder, managing to gasp out a few words.

"Ye really are in love....well I'll....heh...never thought I'd see the day..." You hit her round the head good-naturedly, and head off to the deck.

* * * *

"Would ye mind taking the wheel fer a moment, luv? I need t' find Will. Keep heading south-east. Call me if ye need anything." Jack looks at you imploringly. You nod, grabbing the wheel and taking his spot. You watch as he walks off before calling out.

"Ja-Captain Sparra'! I need somethin'!" He turns around, and walks back over to you curiously. Reaching over, you pull him into a swift but passionate kiss. Letting go, you smile and wipe your mouth.

"That'll be all. Thank ye." He nods, clearly at a loss for words. Slowly he turns and again heads below deck. You turn back to the ocean, grin spread wide across your face.

* * * *

"Will! William Turner! I need t' talk with ye!" hollered Jack as he stomped around the small corridors of the Stella. His mind was still reeling from the lass' kiss moments ago, but he tried to ignore that. Right now he really needed to talk to Will. He seated himself down at a small table in the galley (sound familiar....?) and called for Will. A small childish shriek came from the kitchen, and Anabelle ran out, giggling madly. She clambered onto Jack's lap, and was soon followed by Will, who was grinning. He sat down opposite Jack, and looked him in the eyes.

"The lass?" he asked immediately, eyes twinkling. Jack stopped his absentminded tickling of Ana, and turned to Will, shocked.

"What? Ahhh...no! o' course not!" he stammered, making Will chuckle.

"Don't lie Jack. She's quite a catch, though. So what is it? Completely and utterly confused by the 'trappings of love' so to speak? Came to ask an expert? I mean, who better to ask about sensitive matters of the heart than a whelp?" Will laughed, and Jack sighed, defeated.

"Aye. I figgered ye'd be the best---hold it. How'd ye....I don't.....I mean, I don't..."

"Love her?" Will suggested, and Jack recoiled slightly as if he had been slapped. Will smiled sympathetically.

"Of course ye do. You know how I know? Because you, the infamous Capt'n Jack Sparrow, usually only interested in his ship, his rum, and his women. For days, I haven't seen you drink more than one bottle of rum. You stand still for hours on end, simply staring off into the horizon. And when you're not staring out to sea, you can't take yer eyes off of her! Puh- lease. I've never seen someone so in love as you are." Jack grumbled and shook his head.

"Ye and Anamaria should git together sometime, ye seem t' share some views...." he mumbled, then looked up at Will again.

"She said she loved me. She thought I was asleep. She said that she had fallen in love with me. But she doesn't know that I know. And she'll never admit it, I don't blame her, I'd never admit that in a thousand years! But she is quite amazing isn't she.....her eyes....and......" Jack drifted off, holding his head in his hands. Will laughed.

"Never thought I'd see the day when Jack Sparrow was at a loss for words over a girl." He laughed, and Jack glared at him. Still chuckling, Will looked around for Ana.

"Now where'd she get to, that crazy kid....oh, and Jack? Don't ruin this. Don't break her heart, ok?" he walked off in search of the small girl, and left Jack sitting at the table.

"Wouldn't dream of it, whelp. Never in a million years would I do that."

* * * *

Several hours later, you and Jack were standing at the helm again, scanning the darkening horizon for signs of Jack's Pearl.

"We'll find 'er, Jack. We'll find 'er." you whispered, sensing his sadness.

"God I hope so, luv. She's me life....she's all I have." You feel slightly put out by this, since, well, he did have you. The sun had set moments ago, and the sky was now colored a brilliant pink and purple and orange. It was absolutely breathtaking.

"Jack, will you be sleeping tonight, or will you spend the entire night out here again?" he turned to you, and shrugged.

"Jack, you really need some rest. Let Anna or Will take the wheel tonight. Then you can get at least a few hours of sleep." You didn't voice your other plea....that he would sleep next to you, encircling your body with his warmth and comfort. For you hadn't slept at all since Port Royal either, it had become almost impossible without him near.

"I don't think so, luv. My Pearl is close, I can feel her. Jest a bit longer...." his eyes drifted to the horizon again, and you felt your throat close up. Once again, you were dreadfully close to tears. The combination of no sleep, deprivation of Jack, and love had made you a sappy, emotional pirate. You swallowed hard.

"Jack....please?" He turned back to you, startled by the hitch in your voice, and the plea in your eyes. He looked at you questioningly, before pulling you close and resting his head on top of yours.

"Of course, luv. Of course I will."

* * * *

An hour later you had retired to the Captain's Quarters while Jack asked Anna to watch the wheel. You lay quietly on your back, waiting for Jack. Moments later he stepped in, shedding his cloak, hat, boots and shirt. Both of your remained strangely silent, and avoided each other's eyes. Jack lay down next to you with a huge sigh. Both of you lay in silence for what seemed like forever. Finally, with your eyes still on the ceiling, you spoke up.

"Jack?" you said quietly, not looking at him.

"Mmhmm?" came the sleep-laden reply. You propped yourself up, and turned to look at him. you felt something like desperation fill your chest, and again your throat closed uncomfortably.

"....thank ye." you managed to choke out. He opened his eyes, and looked at you with concern. He reached out to stroke your cheek.

"Sleep, luv. Ye think I can't tell ye haven't been sleepin' either? Ye need some rest. Ye'v been actin' odd today. I'm right here, and I'm not going anywhere." You nodded, and let yourself be pulled up against his body. You leaned your head against his broad chest, and were surprised to feel a tear slide down your cheek. You reached up and kissed him fiercely, tangling your hands in his hair. When you broke away, you leaned your forehead against his, hands still in his hair.

"I'm not letting go, Jack." He kissed you again, lightly, and you both drifted off to sleep, holding onto each other for all you were worth.

* * * *

Anna stood by the helm, smiling slightly as she mulled over her best friend's predicament. Will came to stand next to her, having just put Anabelle to bed.

"Jack came to talk to me today...." said Will, eyes still on the ocean. Anna turned to him, and saw a small smile on his face.

"Oh really? About what?" she asked innocently.

"About yer mate. Apparently she's had quite the effect on our dear Jack. Poor guy's so confused about it all."

"Reeeeeeally.... because it just so happens that I had a lovely little chat with said girl today, and it was Jack who was causing all of *her* pains. So it seems the feeling is mutual."

"Quite." said Will, smile broadening.

"She's quite alarmed by all this. I do believe she's never been in love before. And man, is she in love.."

"Yea, Jack too. I've never seen anything like it...he hasn't been drunk in days, hasn't been to Tortuga to pick up a girl in weeks, no more innuendos....we've lost him completely."

"Yup. But don't tell Jack she loves him. She would absolutely die."

"Oh, he already knows! She told him herself! Well, she did think he was asleep, but she told him nonetheless. So Jack knows. Oh, and you can't tell her that he loves her."

Anna laughed, this situation kept getting odder and odder.

"She knows."

"What?!"

"Yup. He said it, when he was drunk apparently, he told her he was in love with her. So here we have ourselves a very amusing situation. Two rogue pirates, both desperately and reluctantly in love with the other. Both know that the other is in love with them, but neither know that the other knows. And so it shall be until one of them decides to tell the other. Goodness, what a mess!"

Both of them turned back to the ocean, quietly chuckling. Anna squinted her eyes as something appears on the horizon.

"What's that?" she asked quietly. Will pulls out a small telescope, and places it to his eye. His mouth drops open, and he turns to her.

"It's the Pearl."

* * * * *

CHAPTER 20 - Barbosa Is Back

"Should we wake Jack?" queried Will, still anxiously eyeing the Pearl in the distance.

"Naw," replied Anna. "Let them sleep. She needs him more than we do. Besides, it will still be several hours before we catch up. The only thing is: either you or I will have to steer now. Barbosa will no doubt notice us, but since we're in a Port Royal ship, he may think we're simply the Navy. If he was able to see Jack at the helm, we'd be dead. This ship has no firearms at all when compared to the Pearl. She can't steer, since Barbosa knows her too. That leaves you and me."

"Actually, it only leaves you. Barbosa and I....have...er...well, we've met. He tried to kill me and my wife. So I suppose you'll be sailing the Stella for a while."

"Yo ho, yo ho, a pirates life fer me...." mumbled Anna sarcastically. Will grinned.

* * * *

You were sleeping fitfully, despite Jack's warm body nearby. You were having that dream again, where you stood that the helm of a mighty ship, Jack's arms around you. Only this time, he wasn't whipped away by the wind. He was slowing letting go of you. Suddenly you were dangling from the side of the ship, holding tightly to Jack's hand. The waters below were bubbling and boiling anxiously, waiting for you to fall. You looked up into Jack's face, to find him staring back, completely void of emotion.

"Jack!" you called out, but your words were whipped away by the violent wind. His grip lessened on your hand, and you fell as if in slow motion, screaming and screaming, closing your eyes for the impact with the water, but it never came. You were falling, falling, always falling. Barbosa's voice echoed through your mind, chilling you to the bone, and filling you with deep despair.

'...he has a fair number of strumpets in that hole...'

You screamed, over and over until no more sound came from your throat. Pictures flashed before your eyes, silent and ghostly shots of Jack, on his knees, hands tied behind his back and his head hung in despair. Barbosa stood in front of him, holding a young girl and Anabelle....tears streamed silently down your cheeks as a picture of Jack, sprawled on his back, eyes closed, mouth slightly parted, hair splayed around his head flashed before your eyes....

You snapped your eyes open, breath ragged, face wet with tears. The warmth that had surrounded you when you had fallen asleep was gone completely. Turning, you searched frantically for Jack in the pale light of the early morning. Your heart beat wildly as you remembered the visions in your dream.

As your hand touched his soft skin, you let out a small relieved sob. Thank god he was still here. You rushed over next to him, sliding your hands all over his smooth chest, you traced the lines on his face, pressing yourself as close as you could to his body.

"Luv? Are ye ok...?" came Jacks voice, and you let a small sob slip in pure relief. You sat up, and he followed suit. You could see his face filled with concern, and his eyes widened at the sight of the tears on your cheeks.

"Oh, pet..." he reached over and pulled you into his lap, tucking your head under his chin. He wound his strong arms around you, rocking you slowly.

"I'm here, luv. See? I told ye I wasn't goin' anywhere." You took a shaky breath, holding him tightly to your body.

"Jack, tell me a story."

"Alright. Which one do ye want t' hear?"

You were already growing sleepy again. "Mmm...the one about how you sacked the port in Nassau without firing a single shot..."

"Alright. It was mid-morning when the Pearl sailed into the port....."

* * * *

You half listened to his story, and half slept until a loud knock came on the door.

"Captains? Are ye decent?" called Will's voice. You made to climb off of Jack, but he held you tight.

"Aye." He called out. The door opened, and Will stepped in. He eyed you and Jack with a small smile, then spoke loudly and strongly.

"Sorry to bother, but we've found the Pearl."

Your heart jumped, and Jack squeezed you tightly. When he spoke however, his voice was steady and even. His cool disposition was shattered by the way he was gripping your hand tightly, and how fast his heart was pumping.

"How far off?" he asked.

"About three hours."

"Where's she headin'?"

"We think she's aiming to dock in Auckland Harbor."

"Good, good. Give me a moment, and I'll---*we'll*--- be out to discuss this further, aye?"

"Aye. Sorry t' bother."

"Not at all."

Will left, closing the door behind him. You heard his footsteps fade away up the stairs. Jack leapt off the bed, dragging you with him.

"Ye hear that! Me Pearl! Soon we'll be heading t' look fer yer treasure!" he raced around the room, grabbing his shirt and boots, hopping on one foot as he stuffed the other into the worn leather. You chuckled, and pulled a big shirt on on top of your small tunic, and shoved your feet into your boots. Jack was already at the door, looking back at you impatiently. You grinned. He grinned back, and ushered you out into the late afternoon air.

He said nothing as you hurried to the galley, only casting you a long look of pure glee. Once in the galley, you both sat down opposite Will, and he grinned.

"So we found her, Jack."

"Aye. So I heard. Auckland?"

"Aye. What's your plan?"

"We don't sail into port. He's notice fer sure. We need to anchor jest outside. We'll be there in, oh, about four hours. It'll be dark by then. A few of us will go into town, look around, see if we can spy a bit, maybe find a pub...." he grinned at you, and you winked. "We can take shifts. Me, the lass-" you elbowed him, resenting that he never actually used your name. He ignored you.

"We'll go in first, half the crew can come too. We'll be back by two. Then we'll watch the ship, and ye can go in t' town. Savvy?"

Will nodded, face serious. Despite the obvious joy of finding the Pearl, something was hanging in the air. Something tense, and uncomfortable. A nervous energy, almost. Will cleared his throat, and when he spoke it was quietly and with a slight hint of fear.

"What if....what if Barbosa comes when you're gone? What should we do?"

"Well fight 'im o course!" said Jack quickly, trying to brush it off. "The crew'll know what t' do. And Anna....can she take care o' herself?" he asked you. You nodded.

"Anna knows what t' do as well. No worries then." Jack seemed set, but you were thinking of something else he had appeared to have forgotten.

"Will? I don't want ye fighting." You said quietly, looking down at the table.

Jack looked at you incredulously, and Will's mouth dropped open.

"What? You don't want me fighting? How could I not---? What....?" you were looking at him sternly, ignoring the surfacing feelings of your father diving off into his last battle.

"I don't want ye fighting. I want ye to barricade yerself in the captain's quarters." Jack was shaking his head now, amazed at your angry tone and stern words. Will was getting slightly angry himself.

"What on earth is this? You think you can order me around---"

"I am your CAPTAIN, and you will DO AS YOU'RE TOLD!!!" you yelled. Jack stopped in his tracks: he had been head to the cabinets for a drink. Will stood up, fist clenched angrily at his sides. You were breathing heavily, furious at Will's stupidity. Quietly, below deck, Anabelle's crying could be heard. She had been woken by your screaming. You faced Will, talking quickly and quietly.

"Do ye hear that? That is yer daughter. She's scared, and she wants ye. Ye are her father, and right now, ye are all she has. She is relying on ye and ye alone. Do NOT make the mistake of being so selfish that ye will ignore her completely for a few moments of bravery and adventure. What I say goes. If Barbosa finds his way onto this ship in our absence, ye will take yer daughter and barricade yerselves inside the Captain's Quarters. Have I made myself clear now?" Will nodded, defeated.

"Now go comfort your child. She needs you, and you have to be there for her. Sleep now, so you will be awake to watch the ship. Good night." Will nodded again, and swept off below to the cabins. You stood where you were, feeling the anger dissipate. Jack made no comment, quickly side-stepping you as he headed onto deck with his rum.

"Jack Sparrow, don't you set a foot on that deck!" He halted midstride, pivoting back to look at you.

"If we can see them, then they can see us. Back to the Captain's quarters with ye." He pouted, and you laughed in spite of yourself. Jack grinned widely.

"'At's more like it." With that, he swaggered off to your shared quarters.

* * * *

Four hours later, the Stella was floating in the shadows of the cliff nearby, out of sight of the town. You and Jack were ready to head to the shore, along with about 6 of the other men. Will was sullen, avoiding your gaze with a solid look on his face. Anabelle was at his side, still somewhat sleepy. You bent down, tweaking her nose and eliciting a small giggle from her.

"See ye later, Miss Pirate. Ye watch yer daddy, aight? Keep him safe. And guard my Anna. And stay with yer dad. Always. Ok?" she nodded, already fingering her 'sword.' You notice someone had slightly sharpened the end of it, so it might actually inflict pain. Straightening, you tried to catch Will's eyes.

"Will. Will, stop this." He stood stiffly, still avoiding your eyes. Sighing, you stepped into the small boat with Jack.

"Oy! Ahh, 'at's ok. Ye can jest ignore yer best friend. I don't mind...." Anna's indignant voice rang across the deck, and you grinned. You hugged her, and she spoke so only you could hear.

"I was jest kidding, love. I'll see ye in a few hours. Have fun....." she said the last bit suggestively, and you snorted. She raised her eyebrows mockingly, and you climbed back into the boat. The other men followed, and another crewmember lowered in into the water with a splash. The crew picked up the oars and began swiftly and silently rowing to shore.

"Jack? Did ye sharpen Anabelle's stick?" He looked at you curiously in the darkness before replying.

"Aye."

"Why?"

"Because if something does happen, ye want her completely defenseless? Will won't stick in the Captain's Quarters if I know him well. He'll be out fighting. And besides, she hits pretty good." He laughed, remembering how she whacked him a few weeks ago.

"Will better stay in there. He has a responsibility...."

"Luv. It's ok. Nothing will happen."

"How do you know that? Anything could happen! He could---"

"LUV. I am sorry about yer dad. Really I am. But Will is Will. He loves Ana, but it runs in his blood. It's jest the way he is." You sighed, knowing he was right.

It was a short trip, and after you had pulled the small vessel on shore and hid it in some bushes, you and Jack set off into town. Turning, you addressed the crew.

"Alright. Ye can go where ye like. Be back 'ere by 1.30. No trouble, aye? And if ye see Barbosa or anyone of his crew, find out as much as you can." They nodded and slipped off into the night. You and Jack waltzed into the town, which was alright half asleep. Except for the pubs of course. They were always open and full. You walked into the nearest one, called The Red Dagger, and ordered a couple of rums. After reminding Jack that this was not the time to get drunk, you scanned the group. Jack slipped off into the crowd, looking for anyone from the Black Pearl.

After a few hours, you and Jack hadn't found anything. You had been to almost all of the pubs in town, and still found nothing. It was a bit disheartening. The next one you entered was called The Blushing Virgin.

'Ha. Fat chance there's any o' those in here.' you thought as you entered. Settling yourself on a stool, you scanned the group of vagrants and whores. You were so preoccupied with searching, you failed to notice the small hand slip inside your pocket until it was almost too late. Grabbing the little thief's wrist, you yanked them out in front of you. It was a girl, maybe about 17. She was tall, almost eye level with you. She was baring her teeth like a dog, and growling, which only completed the picture.

"What the hell do ye think yer doin', girl?" she only spat at your feet, and tried to pry herself out of your grip. Unsuccessfully, I might add. You chuckled, and studied her face. It was dirty, covered in filth. Some of it may have been soot, and she put it on herself. She was almost not recognizable as a girl, her hair had been crudely cropped short, and it was spiky and jet black. Her breasts were either small, or bound flat with cloth. She was dressed in loose pants, and a shirt that was much too big for her. But it wasn't her clothes you were interested in...it was her eyes. They were a deep brown, and seemed as if they were flecked with gold. Those eyes.....they were so much like Jack's....

She noticed your hesitation, and lashed out. She kicked you hard in the shins, biting your hand that held her. You let go, yelling angrily. Immediately she was halfway across the pub, and you were streaking after her. She still had whatever she had taken from you! As you raced through the people, you noticed Jack in front of you, and the girl was headed right for him.

"Oy! Jack! Get 'er! That little bitch stole sumthin' o mine!" for a moment Jack looked bewildered, but he nodded. He stayed standing still, watching the girl approach out of the corner of his eye. As she raced past him, he reached out and caught her by the waist swinging her over his shoulder in one quick movement. He nodded to you, and motioned to outside.

Once outside, he placed the girl down. She immediately tried to run again, but Jack held her firmly by her short hair. She screeched in pain, slapping at his hand vainly. You faced her, panting slightly.

"Give it t' me. Whatever ye took, give it back." You held your hand out, palm up, and she dropped a handful of coins into it. Grinning smugly, you placed the money back in your pocket. You stepped back from her as she tried to kick you again. And what you saw amazed you.

Jack stood, bored (and slightly drunk no doubt), holding her hair tightly in his right fist. She stood beside him, anger flaring across her small face. But the similarities....they were striking. She had the same high cheekbones, same brown eyes, and same stance as Jack. You frowned.

"What's yer name, girl?"

"Why do ye care?" she spat back. You drew your dagger and placed it gently against her throat. She swallowed hard.

"What's yer name, girl?" you asked again.

"Rayna."

You saw Jack smile slightly, and looked at him questioningly.

"Nothing, nothing. I knew someone named Rayna once. But that was a long time ago." You were beginning to make the connection here....

"Who did you know named Rayna?"

"Hmm? Oh, no one really. Half Sister. Ran away when she was ten. Saw it in the papers. She was the daughter of a noble. Me mum had married him after me dad died. Never really saw her, 'cept fer when she was little."

"Jack......" you were sure of it now, looking back and forth between the two. Rayna had been picking her teeth while you and Jack talked. Suddenly she spoke up to you.

"Ye know, I have a friend who's lookin' fer me. Maybe ye recognize the name: Jack Sparrow. So maybe it'd be wise t' let me go, aye? Ye don't want the fierce Jack Sparrow on yer tail, do ye?"

"CAPTAIN. It's Captain Jack Spa----" Jack fell silent, his eyes widening. Rayna stopped picking her teeth and slowly turned to face her older brother. Jack let go of her hair, and faced her too. After a moment where no one spoke or even breathed, Jack spoke.

"Bloody hell." You bit your lip to keep from smiling and Jack Sparrow's loss for words. This you would have to file in your "Never Forget Moments" along with other choice events......ahem. back to story.

"Fuckin' hell. Jack? Ay haven't seen ye in ages." she smiled sweetly, and you winced. That was not good.....not good.....

Swiftly Rayna punched Jack in the gut, sending him doubling over with a loud 'oof.' You thought about grabbing the girl, but decided this was something Jack could - and should - handle.

"THAT'S fer leavin' me an' mum..." she kicked him hard in the shins and you winced again, knowing how that hurt....you were gonna have a bruise in a few hours time... "THAT'S fer stealin' our boat....." she punched him in the gut once more... "and THAT'S fer pulling me hair." She spat on the ground next to him, cleared her throat, ran her hand through her spiky hair, and stuck out her hand.

"Glad t' see ya."

Jack rolled his eyes and grabbed her proffered hand. She heaved him to his feet and hugged him.

"Sorry bout that, mate. Girl's gotta stand up fer 'erself, else everyone walks all over ye." She turned to you with a look of disgust on her face. She remained facing you, but spoke to Jack.

"Oy Jack. Ye can do betta' than 'er. What're ye doin' with a call girl like dis anyway? I always remembered ye as more o' a 'rouge and corset' kinda guy. Ah hell. Pay her then, and we'll talk. Catch up, eh?" Jack winced, and eyed you nervously. You were outraged.

"Pay me? PAY ME? Let's get this straight, MISSY. I am no fucking WHORE. I am the Captain here, and yer nothing but a fucking runaway. Yer prolly more of a fucking whore than me. Fuck off. Go back to snitching money from people's pockets and screwing men fer pennies." Jack seemed taken aback by your outburst and selectively colorful language. Rayna, on the other hand, was fuming.

"Well, EXCUSE ME, it was pretty daft of me to make that assumption. Ye look more like a fucking street tramp. And yer not my Captain, so I don't give a FUCK what little boat you sail, or who you think you are. Ye should know yer place. What the fuck do ye think yer doing even talking Jack? He's beyond and above ye. Go back t' yer little raft."

You were officially speechless with anger. You stepped forward to beat the shit outta her, but Jack stepped between you two. Turning to you, he cupped your face in his hands.

"Jack, I hope yer not too fond of that brat, cuz man am I gonna kill her. Fucking whore..."

"Luv....shh. Rayna's....well, she's Rayna. No telling her what to do. Never has been. Please."

"I am NOT A WHORE!!" you spat the last part over his shoulder to Rayna.

"I know. Believe me I know already. Otherwise I'd prolly have had ye already...." You glared at him, poking your finger in his chest in warning.

"Ok, ok. Wrong thing t' say. Can't we jest go back to the Stella? The men'll be waitin' fer us by now."

"Fine. Let's go." You followed Jack, but stopped when Rayna fell in line beside him.

"What the hell do ye thing yer doing?"

"Oh, I'm sorry, were ye saying something?" she threw sweetly over her shoulder. Ok, this girl was seriously frustrating you.

"I said, what the hell are ye doing. Yer not coming with us."

"Oh I'm pretty sure I am."

"Not, yer not. Once again, I am Captain of this operation, and I decided who comes and goes. You go."

"Operation? What is this, the bloody Royal Guard?"

"Oh honestly. Grow up. Yer stayin' here."

"Jack, how much longer? My feet are starting to ache."

"Not used to using them? Spend most of yer time on yer back, eh? Fucking whore...."

"Jack, will she be following you around hopelessly for the entirety of this trip? Or may I throw her overboard?"

"Real cute. However, seeing as you're the one following us, it seems that I will be the one doing the throwing."

"Once again, sweetheart---"

"ENOUGH!" that was Jack, stopping and turning around to face you and Rayna.

"JUST, ENOUGH? OK? Look. Rayna: She is yer Captain now, ye respect her, do what she says, and watch yer mouth. Young ears on board the Stella." He turned to you, exasperated. "You too. And jest because ye can tell her what t' do doesn't mean she takes all the shit tasks, aye? And yer usually not one fer curses, but, well, ye watch yer mouth too on board. Now. Both of ye. Let's jest set this straight. Rayna. You are not a whore, you are not a tramp, and you are not better than any of us. I have missed you, and I am glad to see ye. I trust ye won't be a disturbance on this trip. You are strong, opinionated, resourceful, and a hellcat. Clear?" she nodded mutely. Again he turned to you. "Nor are you a whore or tramp or better than any of us." You opened your mouth to protest: you had never once said you were better than anyone, but Jack placed his hand firmly across your mouth. "I know ye never said it. Yer very good that way. Ye....yer smart, witty, bloody beautiful, and stubborn. Are we all clear now?" Rayna nodded dumbly like a child before her mother. You shot Jack a withering look. He grinned.

"Good. Ahh. Here they are. Let's go men. Boat in the water. We have a new passenger. Rayna, this is....." you drowned him out, looking spitefully at Rayna as she smiled and shook hands and flirted with your crew. YOUR crew. You climbed in the boat, sitting as far away from the Hellcat as you could. The ride back to the Stella seemed endless, with Rayna constantly chattering and holding onto Jack. Your hate for this girl was growing with every second. You were the first out of the boat when you reached the ship, and you headed straight for the Captains Quarters, brushing past Anna. You stormed into the cabin, slamming the door behind you. You threw yourself down on the bed, screaming loudly into the pillow. After a moment, you realized you hadn't heard the door slam shut. Turning, you found Anna standing in the doorway, curious. You sighed.

"It's nothing. Don't worry about it. Go have a good time. I'll tell ye when ye get back, alright?" she nodded, and walked over to hug you.

"...in case I don't see ye again...."

"Don't be silly."

"I thought ye should know..."

"Don't do this."

"...yer the best friend I've ever had."

"Oh Anna. Stop this." Your voice was slightly pleading now.

"I love you like my own sister. If I had a sister, that is. I'd love you as much as her. But I don't. So I love you as much as I would love her." You laughed.

"I'd love you even if that made sense."

"Go. Shoo. Get drunk. Have a good time be careful. Back a dawn."

"Aye aye, Captain." She mock saluted you, and left the room, closing the door quietly behind her. You sighed, and dropped back onto the bed and off to sleep.

* * * *

You dreamed again; an eerie semi-conscious dream, where you were half asleep, yet half awake. You knew you were dreaming, but couldn't stop it. You could tell yourself to wake up. You just lay there as it unfolded.

Again you were falling, falling endlessly into darkness. You opened your mouth to scream, but it was filled with sea water. After a few moments, it had filled your lungs entirely. You coughed and panicked, writhing about as you fell. Suddenly you were standing on the deck of the Stella, perfectly dry, lungs completely void of water. Jack lay on his back just as you had envisioned him before. You tried to move, but your body was riveted to that one spot. Someone was laughing. A cold, hard, and terrible laugh. Shifting your gaze, your eyes fell upon Barbosa, standing a few metres away. He looked exactly as you remembered him in the cave. In one hand he held the long blonde hair of Anabelle, who was writhing below him and crying. In the other hand, he held Rayna. She held the same look of disgust on her face as when she commented on you. Fleetingly, you felt triumphant at her capture.

"Ye see, Jack, why a pirate should bring little kiddies and sisters on board. Ye care too much. It was this kind of thing, Jack that lost ye the Pearl in the first place, and will allow us t' slip out from under yer fingers. I be takin' these...if we see yer followin' we'll kill em. Oh, and yer comin' too. Ye think we don't know who yer little strumpet is? She's the one who knows where Jamison's treasure is. And you two, being so close.....im sure you've managed to get it out of her, no doubt in bed. So yer comin' too. Unless....unless of course ye with to hand over the lass in return fer yer own life?"

You hardly dared breathe, and you watched Jack for his reaction. Suddenly you were standing in another place. At the helm of the ship. Looking out over the water, you could see a small boat stealthily crossing the water towards you. A cold chill ran up your spine. The ocean was talking to you.

"Go. Go. Go! Go! Go! GO! RUN! WAKE UP!"

"BARBOSA!" you woke up with a shock, eyes wide and heart racing. Something told you that wasn't really just a dream... you scrambled out of bed, and threw open your door. It was still quiet, but it wasn't a peaceful quiet. It was like....the stillness before a mighty storm. Oh yes, this was going to be a mighty storm....

You raced across the deck, searching for Jack. Finally finding him sleeping by the helm, you shook him awake. He groaned, and peeling open one eye.

"What is it lass? Never wake a man when he's sleeping...." he made to go back to sleep, but you slapped him across the face. Ignoring his indignant cries, you spoke quickly and quietly.

"Jack. Barbosa is here. This is happening now."

* * * * *

CHAPTER 21 - The Last Battle

"What?" Jack was more alert now, quickly blinking the sleep from his eyes.

"Barbosa. Here. Now." You both heard the sound of something being thrown over the side of the ship, and jumped up.

"Go get my stuff. Get my sword. And my pistol. Hurry. Grab your stuff too." He said hushedly to you. You nodded, and slipped off quickly. You raced to the Captain's Quarters, found Jack's stuff and slung it over your shoulder. You stuck your sword through your belt along with your dagger, and headed for the door. Suddenly remembering Anabelle, you hurried down to the other cabins to find her and lock her in the Captain's Quarters. She isn't there. Her bed is empty. Heart racing, you hurry back to the deck. What you see shocks you. It's exactly as you dreamed.

Jack was on his knees before Barbosa, who was holding onto Anabelle and Rayna. Anabelle was crying and pouting. She still held her teddy bear close. Barbosa was grinning sadistically at Jack. Fortunately he hadn't seen you. You stepped into the shadows and watched as the scene unfolded.

It was exactly as you had dreamed it, down to the tiniest details. You still didn't know how Jack would react. You held your breath.

"Never." Something inside you soared and for a moment you smiled.

"Aye. 'At's what I thought. Once again, ye care too much. Alright, then. Since I can't have ye trying t' make any daring escapes..." he walked over to Jack, holding the hilt of his cutlass above his head. You stepped out of hiding, dropping Jack's stuff and pointing your sword at Barbosa.

"Don't touch him."

Barbosa looked surprised for a moment; he had not expected to see you again, especially here. Then he grinned; a horrible twisted grin that distorted his face even more.

"Ahhh. I see...." he looked back between you and Jack.

"This little whelp has stolen yer heart. How touching. I'm moved. Jack, Jack, Jack. How many times do I have t' tell ye? Women are weak. They're only good once, then ye toss 'em. So tell me, girl, how much does yer dear captain mean t' ye? Stolen away yer very heart, has he?"

He had put you in an inescapable situation. There was nothing you could say that would help either of you. If you said yes, he would simply torture Jack to get to you. If you said no, not only would you hurt Jack but Barbosa would probably kill him. You held your tongue.

"Speak up, lassie!"

"The rest of our crew will be returning any moment. You are alone. You won't stand a chance."

"Ah. I see. Which portion of yer crew would that be? Several men, including one Will Turner, and a whore? About yay tall? Blonde hair? Feisty?" he held his hand about 6 feet off the ground, indicating where he meant. You said nothing, but you were thinking frantically about Anna. Barbosa chuckled.

"Ah yes. We met them. They decided it would be best to sacrifice their lives out there instead of embarrassing themselves up here. That lass was the first t' go. Pleading and beggin' fer her life like a child. Did her no good. Me first mate, Scapel, did her in quick. Right through the stomach." He paused and crossed himself, almost mockingly. "The rest of the crew went like that too, not a scrap of bravery in one of them. Except for that Will Turner. Definitely Bootstrap's boy. Killed a good half o' me men. Got away, most unfortunately. Set a few o' me best en after 'im. Suppose he's dead by now."

You dropped to your knees beside Jack. Anna. Will. Anna was dead. Will was dead. Your best friend was dead. Will was gone, and Anabelle was on her own. You could feel Jack looking at you, but you kept your eyes on the boards.

"What is this? A bleedin' Love Ship? As pirates, ye should know not t' care. Gives others - namely me - powerful weapons. Aye. Not that I mind. I suppose now that I have ye, I don't need Jack. Or, come t' think of it, these brats. Oh, perhaps I'll keep this one, she may be fun sportin'...." he looked greedily at Rayna, and she growled and wriggled crazily. Barbosa only grinned. He released Anabelle, who was hysterical now. You held out your arms and she rushed to you. You kissed her head and held her tight. Barbosa walked up to Jack, raised his cutlass, and brought it down swiftly on his head with a resounding 'thud.' Jack dropped onto his back, hair splayed around his face. It was exactly as you had dreamed. Barbosa was talking again, but you were completely ignoring him. Something more interesting was happening behind him.

Will was climbing over the rail of the Stella. He looked bruised and bloody, but very much alive. You held tighter to Anabelle, hiding her face in your shirt so she wouldn't give him away. You stood slowly, feeling your grief at Anna's death replaced by white-hot anger. Anabelle clung to your leg as you bent down and picked up your sword. You tried to signal to Will to take Ana to the Captain's Quarters, but he drew his sword and shook his head. You point your sword at Barbosa, who only grins. Prying Anabelle from your leg, you push her behind you, hoping she'd run off. No such luck.

"Ana, honey, go downstairs. Be a good girl, and go downstairs now."

"I'm a pirate too! And I want to stay with you...." she whined, and you growled, never taking your eyes off of Barbosa.

"Ana, please. This is very important." She ignored you completely, and to your horror walked up next to you. She pulled out her sharpened stick, and swung it around wildly. Barbosa chuckled at the display.

"What a mighty sword, little girl." He bent down, still holding firmly to Rayna. Ana stopped her swinging, and looked at him solemnly.

'Oh no, not good, not good, this is definitely not good...' you thought frantically. Barbosa was advancing on her talking sweetly and holding his hand out to her. She was being swayed. Will was watching with horror, and you motioned to him to take her. He looked at you, then back and Ana, and at you again. Finally, he nodded and put his sword away. He watched you for the signal. A moment before Barbosa would have grabbed her, you shouted to Will.

"NOW!" Will sprinted to Anabelle, grabbing her around the waist and heading to the Captain's Quarters. Barbosa swore loudly, and turned to you only to find your sword at his throat.

"Let her go."

"Who? Her?" he looked at Rayna as if he had only just noticed her, then grinned.

"Since she's so lovely, I think I'll be keepin' her. That is, of course, unless ye can beat me." You appraised him with one eyebrow cocked. Fighting for that girl? Wasn't this a bit cliché? Besides, you didn't even like her.

"Fine." Damn your conscience. You couldn't just let the poor girl be raped and beat by pirates. Sheesh. Bloody whore that she was, she didn't deserve that. Barbosa grinned widely, and threw Rayna down next to the wheel and pulled out a cord of rope.

"Aye." He tied her to the wheel, and then turned to you.

"Begin."

You thrust at him, but he blocked it. You circled each other for a moment, Rayna yelling in the background.

"Beat the shit outta that bastard! Hit 'im! Hit 'im" He grinned, and slashed swiftly to your left. You leaned out of the way, hearing the blade swish inches from your ear. You saw an opening, and lunged. He blocked it once again, but you twisted quickly and managed to send his cutlass flying from his hand. Grinning smugly, you placed your sword at his throat.

"That was quick. Didn last long, eh?"

"That's what ye get ye fucking sodomizing bastard! Ye-"

"Rayna! Language please! Children on board!"

"Oh yeah....sorry..." you glanced at her quickly. Did she just apologize? This was new.... suddenly she screamed, and you turned to find Barbosa leaping towards you. Before you could get your sword up, he had tackled you. Your sword flew from your hand and stuck fast into the wheel inches above Rayna's head, wobbling ominously. Rayna's eyes were wide and frightened. She slowly twisted her head so she could see the blade. Then she started screaming her head off. You grappled with Barbosa for a few moments, and heard the rest of your crew scramble on deck. They must have heard what was going on, or else Will told them. Looking again quickly, you notice Will was with them.

'Bloody idiot. When will he learnt o obey an order...' you thought as you pushed Barbosa off of you and scrambled up the mast. You could hear Barbosa following. Suddenly the resounding boom of a cannon filled the air, and you looked around frantically. The Black Pearl was sailing swiftly in your direction, with about ten men on board. You looked at you six men and Will, and prayed that they could handle this. You climbed out onto the mainyard (thing the sail is attached to at the top.) and faced Barbosa. You grabbed a rope and swung up, kicking him back into a jumble of ropes. He steadied himself and punched out at you, still hanging from the rope. His fist landed in your gut, and you dropped the rope and fell precariously onto the thin board under you.

He advanced, and you realized that he was slowly backing you off of the mainyard. It was about 50 feet down. Glancing upwards, you noticed another rope dangling just over the edge. Swiftly you turned and dove off of the edge, and at the last second grabbed the rope. You swung around the mast, catching Barbosa completely off guard. The rope caught him around the middle and slammed him hard into the mast. Realized that you could tie him to the mast, you quickly looped the rope around again. As you passed him, he reached out and punched your hard across the face. You felt your jaw creak and eyes water, and heard Barbosa laugh spitefully. You kicked him hard in the gut; that shut him up pretty quick. You swung around once more, and secured the rope so he couldn't possibly wiggle out. Then, grinning triumphantly you reach for your dagger.

Two things happened at that moment.

One: Barbosa reached as far as he could and grabbed your hair tightly in his fist. You yelped and reach to your aching scalp, and Two: a cannon was shot at the mast. The two cannon balls were attached by a chain, and they wrapped around the mast just below you two. Looking down, it was actually only about two feet below you. It shook violently, and you wavered. The mast began to tilt, heading for the ocean. And still Barbosa held your hair tightly. It was as if he was saying: "if I'm going down yer coming too." The mast was now only seconds from being completely submerged in the water. Steeling yourself, you wrenched your hair from his grasp. He was left holding a handful of your hair, and your scalp was burning. Pushing the pain out of your mind, you leapt off, just in time, for moments later it hit the water. Barbosa yelled out, but his cries were quickly drowned as he sunk to the bottom of Davy Jones' Locker. Barbosa was gone.

You had grabbed a rope that had been swinging, and now began to climb it. When you reached the top, you were holding onto the broken tip of the mast. Deftly you slid down to find the ship significantly quieter. Will stood holding Anabelle, who was, once again, crying. Rayna was tugging hopelessly at her bindings, and you went over to free her. She looked at you somewhat apprehensively.

"Ye know, this doesn't make ye any less of a whore..." you looked down at her, deciding to leave her there for a while.

"I mean, I appreciate all that and whatnot, but I could have done it myself. Anyway. Um, thanks." you smirked and freed her from the wheel. She stood up and walked off without another word. You shook your head wordlessly at her rudeness. Shaking your head, you turned around. Your eyes fell on Jack, still lying unconscious on the deck. You rushed to him, dropping your sword by his side. You picked up his head and laid it in your lap. Brushing the hair off his face, you tapped his cheek lightly.

"Ja-ack. Jack! Wake up."

"Excuse me, Captain?" you looked up. Will was standing in front of you. You raised your eyebrows expectantly.

"The Black Pearl is ours." You grinned.

"Absolutely splendid..." groaned a voice. You looked down to find Jack staring back up at you, grinning. You laughed in relief, and helped him up. You held him around the waist, and he leaned heavily on you. Looking at him, you grinned.

"Shall we?"

"Hell yea." You both walked slowly to the side of the ship, and carefully across one of the boarding ramps. Jack stepped onto his Pearl, and breathed in deep. You guided him up to the helm, and stood back as he gripped the wheel like an old friend. A small half smile played across his lips. He motioned to you to join him, and you moved up to stand next to him. He wrapped an arm around you waist and pulled you close.

"Now t' yer treasure, luv."

TBC...






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