Black Syren

She struggled wildly, kicking out and making a connection causing loud curses to hiss by her ear. She was feeling dizzy from lack of air and went limp hoping to gain the upper hand. As she went limp her body fell forwards and her captor struggled to hold her upright and just when she thought freedom was well within her grasp, other hands began to rove her figure. She had to get the hand over her mouth and nose to move soon or she had no hope at all. Thoughts raced, plans made and discarded, and suddenly she was being tossed into a nearby stall, as she was dropped she began to roll reaching for the dagger strapped to her thigh. “Don’ le’ her away me lads..Ripe for the plucking be this one!” This time she could see faces and recognized two of them from earlier.

Before she could reach her dagger she tripped over the hem of her gown in the shifting hay and was again brought low the breath knocked from her. Balling her fist she swung as the first bloke straddled her hips and she could hear the crunch as she broke his nose and blood sprayed over her, over him. Jeers and comments rang out and her hands were seized and dragged over her head, she could feel hands upon her ankles moving under her skirt. Suddenly Jacques was there a shovel swinging at the head of the man at her ankles. As he fell away the one holding her hands hastily backed away holding out his hands not wishing any further part of the fun.

The man straddling her seemed unaware she was being rescued intent upon her ravishment and as she reached for her dagger she was soundly slapped, her lip splitting. Again did Jaqcues swing but before he could land the blow a rather large figure of a dog barreled through, growling, teeth bared as he leapt at the mans arm and latched on viciously swinging his head from side to side. Jacques taking in the dog quickly moved to help her up from beneath the pair fighting. The screams were loud coming from the man, but the yelp from the dog was louder. Somehow her knife had fallen into her attackers hands and the dog had taken the blade across his ribs.

Jacques relifted the shovel and swung hard and the sound of his skull cracking was sickening. “We have to hurry and leave, someone will have heard that. She made to leave but the pitiful whimper drew her back. It was the same pup from earlier, how could she leave it? Shaking she knelt to scoop the dog to her chest and Jacques placed a blanket about her to cover her torn and bloodied gown. His face angry in the dim light as he touched the wildly swelling bruise upon her cheek.

Soon they were out into the rain and making for the church. Jacques beating upon the door till the father unlocked the door and peered out blinking as he spied upon them. Recognizing Treasure and seeing her face he quickly pulled open the door and ushered them within. “Father we need a Doctor..The pup is injured.” Gesturing to Jacques he spoke rapidly and the only words she heard was Maeve.

Time passed all too quickly in the Inn and seeing Captain Lasseter leaving she inclined her head to him. Jacques curious and asking questions around mouthfuls of meat pastries and ale. Treasure merely shook her head and he shrugged and they continued their meal, when every crumb had been sopped up with warm fresh bread they stumbled to their feet and moved outside. Again did they weave through the crowds that were slowly dissipating due to the heavy clouds of pewter that ran along the horizon. Wicked forks of Lightning and a stiff breeze heralded the arrival of a storm, but it would be hours yet.

So they walked for hours more laughing as they tried to communicate with the other, soon it became a game and their hand gestures more elaborate. The first hint of the storm came in a soft cool drizzle and she spun about in the rain before they moved to find shelter in a warm stables. Jacques motioned he would try and find something to cover them so they could continue to their lodgings and she nodded her head and shooed him off.

Moving through the stables she peered at each of the horses and crooned and spoke, and petted each head that turned her way. Suddenly did she take note of the quietness of the stables, indeed twas too quiet and before she could turn rough hands were upon her. A scream half given before fingers closed over her mouth and nose

They strolled for nigh onto an hour, her laughter ringing out freely as Jacques tried to explain what they were seeing and she assumed give the rich history of the cul de sac Port Royal. But of course they ended up laughing more than any serious explaining, though she did catch a few phrases and could somewhat glean some of his meaning through his hand gestures. Her arm was linked through his and her keen gaze was bright with curiosity as it went this way and that.

The City was colorful and exotic, the people seeming warm and friendly and as they walked they made for the small catholic church and she tugged upon Jacques and pointed to the church. He nodded his assent and they strolled down the block her gaze glued upon the small church. It was tiny and white, a small cemetery lay to it’s left and a white picket fence and a multitude of colorful flowers surrounded it. As they entered the quiet interior she sought the small fountain filled with holy water made the sign of the cross and moved up the aisle. Reaching the front pew she genuflected and knelt upon the riser provided and quickly said her prayers, Jacques kneeling at her side. She could feel his curiosity but would not leave him with the information he sought, it was too near to her heart and personal.

Her prayers included the whole of the WatchDog, All of the crew those of the Heron and the ship itself as well. Then she rose moved to a nearby altar and lit a candle and again knelt in prayer for her beloved brother. Jacques stayed where he was merely watching her and taking in her profile. A Father soon entered and catching sight of them smiled warmly and moved to aid Treasure as she rose. She smiled sweetly and thanked him profusely causing the Father to blush and merely nod his head. “Do you speak English?” She asked her husky tones filling the small church. The father smiled and nodded “Of course my child, as well as French, Latin, Italian and some Spanish. What do you need my child?”

“A prayer Father for my soul. It is in great need of guidance.” He nodded his head and asked her to kneel again and once she was settled he made the sign of the cross and said a brief prayer, made the cross upon her forehead and bid her rise. “Thank you Father, you have made my soul lighter.” She reached into the small reticule the Lady had sent with her gowns and gifted him with a small offering causing his eyes to round and for him to protest. “Nonsense Father, it is for your aid. I hope to attend mass soon.” With a last smile she bid him adieu and saw the grin that spread across Jacques face before they once more moved outside. Inhaling deeply they set off again continuing to explore and as they walked she noticed a rather large pup tied to a post outside a store. It was quivering with fright, tail tucked between his legs, his ribs poking through a coat that was dull.

Outrage surged through her at the treatment of the pup and she pulled her gaze from it and continued to move at Jacques side. He speaking again rapidly, his words low as if to take her mind from the small pup, or to soothe her rapidly rising temper. It took much to anger her, but mistreatment of any kind was a sure way to spike it quickly. As they moved past the pup she could hear it whimpering and it tugged at her, she glanced back over her shoulder and noted it was a Blue Merle, a great dane. With a resigned sigh she retraced her steps till she knelt before the pup, slowly holding her hand out for him to catch her scent. “Poor Lad. Hungry are you? The pup wagged his tail slightly and she smiled softly a small hand moving to scratch behind his ears and noticed his flinching. Pausing she crooned then laid her hand gently atop his head and scratched him. As he licked at her face she knew she had made a friend. Jacques urgently pulled her to her feet and she noticed a portly gent with a flushed face angrily hurrying over. Shoving past her he untied the pup and yanked upon him and Treasure moved forwards to say something and Jacques quickly tugged her back.

Furious she twisted free of Jacques and blue green eyes blazing swept back the way they had come Jacques following after her assuring her safety. He had taken note of her beauty dressed in rags, but dressed as she was now, she was a jewl and she had garnered much intrest. No simple seaman was she, he would stake his life upon it. She moved like a Lady, a Lady with a shadowed past. Though he was young he knew what such a past led one to, knew there was more to her than many would ever know. He did wonder how she fit upon a ship full of men, did she sail it or earn her keep in other ways. He decided to hurry and catch up to her even though he knew she was angry at him for stopping her. This one had a heart, even if it had gone out to an abused animal, what else did she hide.

As Treasure passed by the dress shop she had frequented before she stepped in and noticed the hush that fell as she entered. A soft noise from the rear of the shop had her turning to see a bolt of fabrics had fallen to the floor. Glancing about she wondered why it had grown quiet and smiled warmly at the lady who returned the smile and hurried over. “Magnifique!” she exclaimed as she studied the way her gown hugged the ripe curves and highlighted the golden skin and dark hair. “You are most bewitching, I knew from your eyes you were no lad.” She whispered causing Treasure to blush. “Thank you, You have gone beyond what I expected. Do you remember what you saw me first in? Think you can make more garments such as those?” The lady frowned and nodded slowy, “No more gowns?” Treasure shook her head “Nay I need clothes such as those. I will pay you in full, make them simple and sturdy.” Again price was agreed upon and she left taking note of Jacques waiting beyond. As they passed a small tavern Jacques gestured for them to go within for drinks and she nodded moving within. As the darkness receded she again took note of the small room filled with patrons and was about to take a seat when she noticed Dorian alone and hesitated. She felt foolish in a gown before her shipmates so she hoped he would not notice her. Indeed her other shipmates she had stumbled across had not recognized her. Taking a seat she allowed Jacques to order as he spoke French and let her eyes rove the tavern. Her musings now upon her new garments for shipboard, and she could not seem to get the pup from her mind.

As the last of her crew moved towards the WatchDog she hefted her seabag and moved quickly eager to find a nice tavern, bathe and change. Indeed she was so excited hse forgot all about Jacques who offended flushed red and quickly moved after her speaking in rapid French. He was apparently chastising her and pointing to the shadows where the two men had lingered and she arched a brow. At this the young lad hushed and flushed a deep red and she took pity on him gracing him with a smile.

Seeing the smile he calmed down nodded and moved at her side as they wove in and out of the busy narrow streets. Spotting a tavern dubbed the Noisy Goose she pointed at it mand began making her way over to it when Jacques grabbed her arm and pulled her down a small alley all the while rapidly speaking in French and looking at her as if she were three. Amused she allowed him to pull her through the alley, past a small fountain, down another alley and into a much quieter part of town. This was the oldest part of the city she assumed, the buildings careworn and yet still maintained their sense of pride. Shopkeepers were busy sweeping, hawking wares and several women passed by giggling over their purchases.

A flush of dismay swept over her as she kept her head lowered, her hair tangled and overlong, her clothing stained and tore in places. She had once been like those ladies, enjoying the life that her mothers money and position afforded her. Shaking loose of her memories she realized they had stopped and Jacques was speaking softly to her. Here was a smaller inn, not boisterous, no drunks. In fact a small petitely rounded woman was humming as she swept around the doorway and seeing them smiled and spoke in French. Jacques seeming to understand she was on shore leave was busy speaking to the woman who smiled, nodded once and let her gaze move over Treasure. Holding the womans gaze, she noted the slow smile that came and moved aside allowing them to enter.

Looking to Jacques and wondering what had been said she stepped within and was pleasantly surprised, the room though small was very neat, tables scrubbed clean, the smell of beeswax sweetly scenting the air. To the left a small flight of stairs led to the stories above and she prayed the woman spoke some English. Turning she saw the woman behind her ushering Jacques within and smiled. “Do you have a room available? And a bath, I would love a bath, and then Food.” She bit her lips as the woman tilted her head studying Treasure, a frown furrowing her brow before nodding once.

As the woman turned to move up the stairs, she saw Jacques take a seat and pointed at him ‘Stay!” then followed the woman up the stairs. The room given her again was small, the windows open allowing plain white curtains to flutter in the breeze. Dropping her bag she went to test the bed and found it comfortable if a tad noisy. Colorful rugs were thrown on the floor and a vase next to her bed housed flowers that were colorful and gave an inviting fragrance. The woman began to speak to someone down the hall and soon a tub was brought in reminding Treasure that she had not purchased her soap. The Lady seemed to sense something amiss and reluctantly Treasure mimed soap and the lady smiled and left.

Some time later as several buckets of hot and cold water made up her bath, clean towels nearby the woman again entered and pressed a small cake of jasmine scented soap into her hand. Then with a wink she left closing the door behind her. Moving the soap to her nose she inhaled deeply and grinning quickly pulled off her clothes and slid into the tub. It took some long moments to wash the long length of her hair and untangle it, her body relaxing in the hot water as she bathed. As the water cooled she rose, the water sluicing from her as she reached for a length of linen and began to dry off. A knock upon the door just as she reached for her seabag had her freezing, her hand inching for her blade, but a voice called from without and as she bid them enter saw a tiny maid who came in and began gesturing to the tub. Quickly was it emptied and taken below and she sat near the window combing through her hair and letting it dry to soft spirals about her head.

Once it was nearly dry she rose and moved to the mirror against the wall, dropped the linen and studied herself. Then moving back to her sea bag began taking out the contents sent to her and gasped with delight to see not one gown but 2. A corset, stockings and garters, shoes and even a small hat. Even hairpins had been added as well as chemise and petticoats. Which gown to wear? One was a pale gold, the other a rich teal. Taking the teal which was her favorite color for it reminded her of the sea she shook it out and gain approached the mirror and quickly swept up her hair securing it with the pins provided and dressed hastily, eager to explore. Settling the small hat atop her curls she grinned at herself in the mirror, blue green eyes brilliant against the deep black of her hair, the golden skin, and the teal gown.

Leaving her room she slowly ambled down the stairs adjusting to the new shoes and smiled as Jacques scrambled to his feet and tumbling his chair with a loud crash. His eye large as they roved her and she laughed and spun as she reached the bottom of the stairs. “Magnifique!” Was the only word he uttered and the only word she understood. Laughing huskily she sat at the table and they dined on sweet pork and potatoes, and a rich red wine. She left enough money to more than cover her expenses and soon looped her arm through Jacques which he offered so gallantly and moved with him out into the bright sunlight of the day and they began to explore.

She had laughed and had really enjoyed herself with Patrick and Robert. Jacques and the other four men still chortling as she wiped tears of mirth. She watched as her crew slowly ambled up and made sure she had her seabag as the longboat was filled and soon in motion and the jollywatt filling just as Captain William and Captain Lasseter appeared with the rest of the crew.

She was dragged to the side by Patrick as she would not get trampled at the mad dash to the jollywatt and shot him a shy smile. A commotion drew her gaze and she turned to see Morgan, Mcginty and Styles running down the cobbled street and winced as Mr. Styles fell face first tripping over his musket strap. She heard Mr. Pew address him about his musket and looked to the others gathered and moving to take seats in the jollywatt.

Seeing Captain William she quietly caught his attention and slipped away from Patrick’s tall lean frame and motioned to Jacques. “He is young sir, no more than 14. He is also very alert and may have saved me a wee bit o’ trouble if’n ye catch my drift. I was hoping ye might make room for him. I understand if ye need to think about it, but the lad reminds me o’ my brother and I have a soft spot for him.” Blue green eyes were soft as she all but pleased her case to William who narrowed his gaze upon the boy. “We shall see Miss Tribbiani.” That said he moved off and she stood with Robert watching as the chaos still lingered.

Triest was pretty battered and she could only imagine what had led to his folly, she hid a grin at Pew for he seemed surly and perhaps a bit too much grog had made him so. At least Captain Lasseter was alive and well and she was glad for he had always been nice to her. She did not realize she was grinning till Robert made comment of it and she blushed every shade of red there was. When he laughed and went to tease her she shook her head “nay tis not what ye think. Tis a surprise.” Already she could not wait to pick up a few more items, rent a room and change into her gown.

Jacques seeing her smile soon moved to stand at her side and she shook her head at his antics earning her another wink from Robert and a chortle from Patrick which quickl turned to a cough as she swung narrowed eyes upon him.

Just got it myself then my anti virus caught a virus and I quarantined it. Looks like another virus.

She could feel the eyes of the two men crawling over her and refrained from shivering as she continued to try and converse with Jacques, however much merriment to her left had her looking in that direction and smiling at Robert and Patrick as they neared. She also took not of the four new dutch hands and as she noted their stares tempered her smile to steel.

“Robert be ye interested in taking over at noon? I have something that needs doing, oh and this be Jacques, do not speak a lick of the king’s English but he’s a right sort and kept me company when some blokes lingered about.”

Robert smiled noting the boys infaturation and grinned at Siren but as she continued to speak his smile turned to a hard frown “Aye Ill take yer place, whar be the blokes?” Patrick too now seemed to be more aggressive than jovial and the four Dutchmen as well as Jacques caught the sudden tension. Jacques seemed to catch on quickly and rapidly spoke his black eyes gleaming as he jerked his head to the shadows where the two men yet remained.

Patrick made as if to head that way and Siren took his arm shaking her head “They did not come forth and I doubt they will. And we do not need trouble, Eh?” Patrick wanted to disagree with her but Robert sent him a subtle nod of his head and Patrick relented.

Siren soon laughed as Jacques spoke in rapid French and with the Dutchman as well as Patrick, Robert and herself there was much more laughter and frivolity as they tried to figure what each was saying. Soon the two men was forgot by Siren, but not by Patrick nor Robert.

I would like Italian Cream Cheescake with a side of Lasagna...

Treasure tugged her forleock as Captain William stepped away with Ms. Treasaigh and looked about but none were near so she went back trying to learn the boys French in frustration and yet much to his delight. She wrinkled her nose as she butchered another phrase and muttered a curse causing the boys eyes to round, fill with mirth and then he laughed. She was unsure if she should be offended as he laughed at her attempts but could not contain her own mirth. Soon her husky laughter rang out causing many heads to turn in their direction, this young boy so reminded her of her little brother. He was keen of wit and his eyes were sharp for though he remained focused upon her or so it seemed he was very aware of the others about them. An older boy clearly of the docks as was the one she conversed with swaggered up to her and clearly he sought to impress her by speaking in French and making roguish eyes upon her. While she was amused it was clear that the other was not and was clearly getting angry she sought to diffuse the budding situation by waving the older lad away.

Although he grew angered at being sent away the younger was quite smug and she shook her head at his antics. “Trouble. Ye are trouble. What be yer name?” Then realizing he did not understand she pointed to her chest drawing his eyes and then quickly brought her hand to her face instead. The boys eyes following reluctantly “Treasure. My name is Treasure.” She spoke slowly and saw the lads face light up with understanding and he puffed out his thin chest and pointed at it saying “Jacques!” then again did he bound off in rapid French and she rubbed at her temples before slowly holding up one hand. “Too fast Jacques.” At the mention of his name again did he seem pleased, mayhaps over pleased.

She drew her attention from him and took a deep steadying breath of sea air and looked up as a carriage drawn by a team of perfectly matched gray andalusians swept passed. She knew well the breed, had had one of her own. He had been expensively imported from Spain. Her gaze was again drawn as the boy moved into her line of vision and spoke quietly but earnestly. She frowned realizing he was telling her something of import but she could not understand what. Slowly to not draw attention she moved her gaze about and saw the small band of men leering at her. Jacques clearly trying to protect her as he placed his thin frame before hers and she narrowed her gaze upon the group and tossed her head.

Most men and these included once confronted boldly backed down. Afterall it was broad daylight and she was armed. She smiled and patted her dagger and they quickly moved off, but she knew she would have to be more wary. These were not her shipmates and she had no wish to meet up with another Tawny. She glanced back to Jacques and favored him with a smile and watched his face light up. Again speaking rapidly she was overwhelmed and she shook her head with another laugh. It was apparent she had made a conquest but she had no wish to injure his feelings, he was young no more than 13 or 14 if she made a guess. Perhaps William could find a place for the lad onboard, it was clear he was hungry, though with his dark hair and dark eyes he would be very handsome when filled out. And he looked so much like Anthony, she would talk to William and see.

Again did her gaze scan those milling about and she saw two of the men standing in the shadows of a dark corner and made as if she were not aware of them. Apparently two of them did not care it was daylight. She rolled her shoulders and turned her attention back to Jacques and knew he to had seen the men though they continued to converse as if they had not.

Yum Burgers! May I come too?

Coming awake slowly she yawned and stretched as much as the swaying hammock would allow then slowly rolled free of it. Her packages were placed in her sea chest and she rose rolling her shoulders which seemed tight, tense. Perhaps she had not slept as well as she should have but she could remember no dreams, only blissful darkness.

Moving up the ladders quietly she soon made her way on deck and shivered as the cold yet balmly winds caressed her tossing her long hair about her before she gathered it and hastily braided the mass then looked about for something to tie it with.

It was while she was looking that her gaze fell upon Eric sitting alone and staring out at sea. “Alone Sir? You should get some rest while you can.” Her voice was soft, careful to not disturb the others, and yet it was husky naturally so but still bearing the rasp of sleep upon it. Blue green eyes seemed brilliant in the moonlight, they sparkled like the shoals in the light of the moon, and yet they roved, constantly moving about her, wary and alert.

“Aye miss Tribbiani, I shall retire shortly, was enjoying the quiet of the night and the sea. Are you headed aloft?” he asked her to which she merely nodded her head. “tis still early sir but I could sleep no longer so I thought to head aloft.” She gave him a rare smile “I shall leave you alone Sir and bid you a good night for what remains of it.” Tugging at her forelock she turned and moved away weaving about those on duty and the piles of rope and what have you upon the decks before scrambling aloft. Unaware that Eric watched her as she moved along the deck and up to her post.

Once there she settled and yawned again and rubbed her palms along her thighs before looking out about her for the moon had lit up the night as bright as day and all too soon her eternal fight for the heavens would resume and she would be banquished to reside beneath the sea while the Sun reigned supreme. Leaning back against the mast she took in everything about her, below her, the ships quietly riding the waves as they were anchored nearby, some farther distant. The lone cry of a gull had her looking for him and not finding him returning to her view of the sea, and sleepy life. Still with Tawny somewhere still out there she would remain as vigilant as she could, Tawny was still a threat until he was found and hopefully justice would find him soon. Justice came to all, even when one least expected it.

To an absolute wonderfuly and amazing friend! It sounds as if your day..*Ok all your days are blessed* is blessed and I hope that you enjoy every minute of it!

Slan Lass! Happy Natal Day!

She lay in her hammock half asleep, her body relaxed from her earlier swim, her thoughts adrift as she rocked to and fro. Her package had arrived just as her shift had ended and she had horded it tearing open only the corner of the paper to take in the white gown, then slowly closing it and glancing about. Snores and muffled whispers from those nearest heard could be made out as they spoke of the taverns and the lovely lasses seen.

She turned her thoughts back to the church she had seen earlier in the day and she hoped to gain permission to attend mass and confession. Her thoughts turned to her murdered brother, Anthony. It was for him she would attend, to light a candle for his soul as she did whenever she could. Close to her brother she had been, had adored him when he had been killed before her she had lost her faith in God, had lost her faith in humanity.

But something within her soul would not let her shrivel and waste away, something within her burned brighter than the sun and eventually she met William. He had saved her from her step fathers hired men and had brought her to the WatchDog. It was he who had started her back to believing in others, then her shipmates. Aye if she was given a chance to attend mass a special prayer would be given for those who had restored her faith, in herself and in miracles.

She had seen much in a short amount of time and life and death was a blessing and a miracle and she felt the need to unburden her soul. The ship creaked as it swayed to and fro and still holding her parcel she drifted to sleep a smile upon her face as she dreamed of her brother, and of the promise of a new day.

Shook her head with a grin "Nay Sir, it's to come to the Dog sir I doubt Mr. Gage would have it. But I will check with him." Indeed she could hardly wait to try on the pristine gown and feel like a Lady again.

With a laugh she tossed her wet mane and scampered into the rigging singing a bawdy shanty and causing Ciaran to laugh. Catching his laugh she soon swept into another song, one more haunting and soothing to the ears.

"Caro mio ben, Cre di mi al mien" and on the song went, a beautiful aria she had learned as a child.

Eyes widening in surprise she tugged at her forelock again and quickly whirled once more a whirlwind of energy and moved towards her post and winked at Ciaran.

Reaching the rigging she began to haul herself upwards then paused.

"Captain, Has the Dog received any packages Sir?' she asked huskily, her face flushing once more with hot color.

As the Captain turned to face her she lifted her gaze to his and kept them there. She had always been told that the eyes would tell the most about a person and their sincerity and she wanted him to know that she meant what she was going to say.

"Tis my fault Sir! I mean us being late, I went for a swim and I lost track of time not Ciaran. Im truly sorry sir and it wont happen again." She went to curtsy and hastily corrected herself to tug at her wet forelock instead.

Treasure flushed and looked guiltily to Ciaran for it was she that had made them late, She had indeed lost track of time when she had went for her swim and by the time she had made it back to the tavern it was late and Ciaran was worried.

Touching his shoulder she mouthed an apology and as the next set of the crew took their leave she paused waiting to catch William’s attention. Her color still high she fidgeted as she waited for her Captain to notice her. He had not sounded angry but the fault was hers and not Ciaran's.

Aye Congrats! Im posting anyway just in case Lil Xavier made his arrival and you just have not posted yet! *So excited for you!*

awwww...I dont have a baby and I want one...lol Thos are truly inspired!

Happy Natal day to a fellow Plunder Bunny, May the seas remain smooth, the winds in your favor and the cabin boys Tall dark and handsome.

Oh and plenty of Pillagin and Plunderin..

Hope it was an awesome day for you...*hugs*

~Siren~

Happy Natal Day to ye!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hope it was one of the best.

Hmm I thank ye for the warmest wishes but tis not my birthday but another Siren Im thinking.

Though would not mind being 24 again..lol

Happy Natal Day to the other Siren..Whoever she may be..

Frivolity, spirits were high and she laughed at Ciarnan as he stumbled into her trying to regain his sealegs as they moved down the dock towards the town and the taverns. She was slightly damp from the sea as they had rowed ashore but she was eager to stretch her legs, and more eager for that swim. She could not speak with the new Dutch members nor could Ciarnan so they used hand gestures and laughed all the more as their hand gestures caused more confusion than conversation.

Sticking close to Ciarnan as they entered a tavern she took a moment to let her eyesight adjust to the dimness, her ears ringing with the raucous laughter and bawdy songs. Finally able to see she took in a small tavern, filled with occupants and saw her crewmates settling for a table in the corner. All chairs taken she hurried to catch up and looked about for another chair and was quickly scooped up and placed in one of the new crew members lap. Laughing she called for rum and wrapped her arm about the Dutchie’s shoulders to keep her balance and keenly took in all that was happening.

Hours later filled by food and rum and not willing to be the pleasurable company the Dutchie clearly sought she rose and whispered to Ciarnan that she was off for a swim. He admonished her to be careful for Tawny was still an unknown. Laughing she tossed her head and patted her dagger “He is injured, twill take him time to recover if he still lives.” She assured him. Then with a wink and a squeeze of his shoulder she left them to the Ladies that were clearly anxious for their coins. Though she was thankful they had respected her somewhat she still found it amusing that they waited for her to leave before seeking such. She could hear the Dutchman protest her leaving and being small slipped easily through the crowd and outside into the sunshine.

Pausing for a moment to get her bearings she looked to the east, then to the west and finally headed to the west to seek a small secluded spot to swim. She kept to the shadows not wishing for trouble and paused as she passed a small catholic church. Tempted to wander within she looked to her garb and bit her lip and finally passed on. Reaching a small shopping district she peeped into several windows and strolling past one window paused at seeing a white gown within. Stopping she glanced about and seeing none about she quickly tucked up her hair in her cap and slowly entered. The modiste a round friendly woman moved from behind the counter and smiled and she deepened her voice “the gown, I wish to buy it fer me sister. Will ye wrap it up and send it to the WatchDog?” As the modiste studied her she fidgeted and when the woman named a healthy sum she knew the other had caught on and blushed “Ill need the underthings and shoes as well.” Quickly negotiating a new fairer price she paid and left and headed out to the beach.

Leaving behind the world she moved down a steep path towards the roar of the sea and let the site and sound rejuvinate her. Laughing she began to run down the shore, her sandals wet as she frolicked in the surf, then stripping she waded out and dove deep, the water closing over her,as she rose her laughter rang out and she swam for what seemed like hours before tiring and moving to lay upon the sand allowing the sun and wind to dry her naturally. She only had a short time before she had to return to duty, but this time was hers.

Happy Birthday Will and hope your pillaging was swell!

Time passed and still the search continued for Tawny, his body not seen in the dark waters, had he drowned? Perhaps he was tangled in the lines of other ships and beneath the waters surface not to be discovered till anchor was weighed. It would be a gruesome discovery, fish food for however long he remained undiscovered. She shivered in the night winds and impatiently pushed back her hair her eyes tired but ever seeking the waters and most importantly scanning nearby ships for any such movement.

It was during one of these scans that she noticed the waking of the Cul du sac Port Royal and wondered over the town and how the search party would come across, but her attention was diverted by Sealegs bringing food to the decks and Luigi quickly climbing the rigging bringing her some victuals.

She gave a tired smile as he hailed her halfway up the rigging “Ciao Bella Mia! Be ye ‘ungry?” She nodded her head and returned the greeting “Ciao Luigi And Si I am very hungry.” As he climbed the rest of the way she took what he offered with thanks and Then bid him a Buono notte and settled back to quickly eat and still keep watch. She glanced down but once to see Luigi once more upon Deck and moving to the rail with the others to look out over the sea.