CHAPTER 11

You watch the gun pointed at your head unsteadily, and Jack clears his throat.

“’Ello, Norrington.” STUPID! Must he try to have a normal conversation when there is a gun pointed to your head?!

“Good evening Mr. Sparrow. I suggest you go back into your cell, for there is to be a hanging tomorrow...but now you have a friend to die with you.” okay, this man scares the absolute crap out of you. He grins with pleasure, while you consider how mentally sick he really is.

“Then ye have no reason to be shootin’ us, eh?” Well, Jack’s not being a great help... so now you have no choice but to fend for yourself. The crew watches intently but do not bother to interfere, for Norrington does have a gun and they are weapon-less. You inhale sharply and lift up your leg, hitting Norrington right between the legs. Jack’s eyes widen and his hands cover his privates, as if he felt the blow also. Norrington’s eyes go into slits and he falls to the ground, his hand going limp, the gun on the floor.

“Quick, everyone out, before he gets some feelin’ back!” Jack shouts, grabbing some weapons that are theirs and you follow behind.

“Oh my!” you say, following Jack upstairs, his hand firmly grasping yours, “I’m a pirate!”

“And a fine one ya make!” he grins and they rush to the exit but you stop them.

“Wait! We just can’t simply go out there! We’ll get shot!”

“Yer right...” Jack disappears back downstairs and grabs Norrington, smiling giddily with delight.

“He’s our plan! Now where’s me ship?” he asks.

“Go to hell!” spats Norrington, still groaning from the severe amount of pain he is having.

“Tell me where me ship is, or yer gonna have another kick to your goods!” he motions his head towards you and you lift your leg, ready to strike. This gets Norrington’s attention and he starts to stutter a reply.

“O-Over there!”

“Yer gonna have to be more specific, idiot,” Jack says, rolling his eyes. Norrington points to the left, wincing.

“T-There... around the corner..”

“Yer not leadin’ us to guards, are ya? Cause if ye are...” Jack looks at you and you lift your leg again. Norrington shakes his head.

“No!”

“Good.” when you finally arrive to where Norrington points, you see the ship just a few hundred yards away.

“There it is!” your hope soon fades as you see guards coming nearby, guns in their hands.

“Trouble!” you shout, and Jack smirks.

“We got their Commodore, they won’t shoot at us!” a bullet flies past his head, almost hitting him.

“...Then again, maybe not.” you rush towards the ship, dodging bullets and keeping a tight hold on Norrington. You get on the ship quickly, and Jack holds Norrington near the edge of the boat.

“Cease yer fire or I’ll kill him and throw him in tha water!” they all stop and Jack grins.

“Well, Norrington, it’s been fun.”

“Bloody pirate,” he mutters. You look and see a guard getting a clearer view of Jack, and you know he’s going to pull the trigger.

“Jack!” you cry, “watch out!”

* * * *

Will groans as he opens his eyes, looking around the room. What happened awhile ago just came back to his mind, and his eyes darken.

“She hit me!” he shouts, shakily getting up before falling again. He tries once more and succeeds, clutching his throbbing head.

“I need to find her,” he mumbles. Oh yes. Now you’re in for it. He’s gonna tell you off like there’s no tomorrow.

“She’s probably with Jack,” he snarls angrily. He gets out of the shop and is about to leave until he hears gunshots. He turns to the other direction and makes his way clumsily to the port.

* * * *

“Jack!” you cry, “watch out!” Jack throws Norrington off the ship and dodges the shot, but Norrington grabs your hand before he falls, taking you with him to the icy waters below. Jack screams and looks for you in the water.

“Luv! LUV! Answer me!” you are underwater, Norrington pulling on your hair from keeping you to get air. You struggle hard to get free, but he tugs on you harder, and you wince in pain.

Jack looks frantically and jumps into the water, searching for you. He finally sees you and punches Norrington in the face, his grip loosening on you. You swim to the top and gasp for air, looking at Jack who finally came up next to you.

“’Ello, Pet!”

“Jack, come on, we must leave!”

“Luv, just go to the ship-” he stops in mid-sentence as he sinks back into the water, and you look for him frantically.

“Jack?! JACK?!!” you hear voices behind you and you turn around, seeing Anna Maria.

“Take the rope!” she yells, and you grab it.

“I have to wait for Jack!”

“Lass, he can take care of himself, grab the rope!”

“No!”

“Are ye daft?!” screams Anna Maria, “take the damn rope!” you glare at her and shake your head.

“Fine then! I won’t get Jack either!”

“What?!”

“Ye heard me! Now take the rope!” you growl and hold on tightly to the rope, making it onto the ship minutes later, while most of the crew is still fighting the navy.

“We need to get Jack!”

“Norrington’s got em.”

“What? Come on, we need to go back down the-”

“He can take care of himself!” shouts Anna Maria.

“Then why isn’t he coming up for air?!” you snap back.

“Eh... he does need our help.”

“Exactly.”

“And what do you suggest we do?” Anna Maria asks with a quirked eyebrow.

“We go back down there!”

“And get shot?!”

“It’s worth the risk, isn’t it?!” Anna Maria doesn’t answer.

* * * *

Jack is face to face with Norrington, and he slams his fist into his chin, trying to break free from his grasp. Now that he is free, he wants to finish Norrington off, once and for all. Norrington kicks Jack in the stomach, then punches him in the jaw.

Suddenly they both appear from the water, gasping for air.

“Jack!” you scream, “take the rope!”

“No! I’m going to kill ‘em first!”

“Is it worth your life Jack?!” you stay low as more bullets fly by, and you hope he hears you.

“TAKE THE ROPE YOU BLOODY IDIOT!” Anna Maria growls, shaking her fist at him. You would laugh, but right now you’re worrying about Jack’s well-being. Jack kicks Norrington and watches with satisfaction as he groans, and clings on to the rope.

* * * *

Will makes it to the docks and watches the fight that’s going on. He sees you getting out from the water, crying out Jack’s name. He feels a dull pain in his heart but ignores it and continues to watch what’s going on.

* * * *

You and Anna Maria both pull on the rope, helping Jack onto the ship.

“Get the ship ready to go!” Jack says, and Anna Maria nods.

“Aye, Cap’n.” you look at Jack and rip off part of your dress, wiping some of the blood off his face.

“Thank you, Jack...” he smiles and is about to say something until you interrupt him.

“BUT SHAME ON YOU FOR STAYING DOWN THERE AND TRYING TO KILL HIM! DON’T YOU KNOW THAT YOU COULD’VE DIED DOWN THERE AND-” you don’t get to continue your ranting because Jack grabs you and kisses you hungrily, and all your anger fades away.

As you break away from the kiss, Jack smiles at you with a glint in his eyes...perhaps it was humor.

“So now every time I yell at you you’re going to kiss me?” you ask with a smirk. Jack grins.

“It worked, didn’t it?” you smack him on the shoulder playfully, but feel immensely guilty as you see him wince.

“Oh Jack! I’m so sorry!”

“S’all right, Pet.”

“Here, let me help you up...” you are now somewhat far away from the Navy, but you don’t see Will watching you help Jack to his cabin.

* * * *

Will’s fists clench in anger as he sees you help Jack into his cabin, and he feels vengeance run through his body, coursing through him like a bad plague. You belong to him, NOT Jack. He is going to settle this, once and for all.

* * * *

As you dab the small wounds on Jack’s face you smirk.

“De ja vu.” Jack chuckles and grins.

“I think ye like fixin’ me up.” he slides his left arm around you, while he uses his right hand to brush some hair out of your eyes. You stiffen from his touch, not sure if you want this.... it’s now becoming harder to choose who you want. Jack or Will? Will or Jack?

He runs his finger down your cheek, and you close your eyes. You lean in towards him, placing your hands on his tanned, muscular shoulders. He kisses you passionately, bringing you closer to him, your body crashing into his. You break away quickly, eyes full with guilt.

“What, Pet?” he whispers.

“Jack, I don’t know who I want... I don’t want to string you along.” Jack grunts and looks at you, trying to find the right words to respond to that.

“Well... it looks like yer in a fix then... but yer gonna have to make up yer mind soon. Ye can’t have both.”

“I know,” you mumble, tears filling your eyes. Jack wipes them away quickly, telling you not to cry.

“No, Jack! I want you, but then I want Will! I feel horrible! I feel... dirty!” Jack quickly envelopes you into a hug.

“Luv, yer not dirty. I’ve been with plenty o’ women like that, and ye certainly aren’t. I got a question fer ya. Who upsets ya the most?”

“Will,” you reply automatically. Jack laughs, his beads moving back and forth.

“Well, what did you and Will talk about before ye hit ‘em?”

“He was screaming and accusing me of sleeping with you.” Jack smirks and you roll your eyes.

“Then he said you guys were going to be hanged tomorrow... and then I hit him with a book.”

“Well, Pet, he’s stringin’ ye along too.”

“Yes... Elizabeth.”

“Well, ye gotta figure out soon who ye want...” you can’t bear to look at him anymore and you get up.

“I have to go.”

“What?”

“I... I need to be alone.” you rush out of the room, leaving Jack confused and alone.

* * * *

Will is back to the blacksmith shop, quickly packing some of his clothes. He’s mumbling things under his breath, and someone knocks on the door.

“We’re closed!” he barks.

“It’s me! Elizabeth!” came the voice on the other side of the door. Will hesitates for a moment but opens the door.

“Elizabeth... what are you doing here?” she glances at him, then notices the suitcases on his bed.

“What are you doing?”

“Elizabeth, that’s none of your concern.”

“Are you trying to go after her again?! After what she did to you?”

“You don’t understand,” Will says, finishing packing.

“What’s there not to understand? She left you for a pirate, smacked you with a book-”

“She did NOT leave me for a pirate!” he shouts, now getting angry.

“Yes she did, Will! You’ve got to move on! She belongs to Jack!” she places a hand on his arm, looking at him with apologetic eyes.

“No,” he shouts, “she was never his to begin with! She’s mine!” the room is now deathly silent, and Will feels shock run through him. Elizabeth’s face shows devastation, her eyes brimming with tears.

“So she’s yours? Never his?” Will doesn’t answer, he turns around, gathering more things. Elizabeth grabs him and turns him around, looking at him.

“Is what you say true?! Did you mean what you just told me? Did you?” Will watches her for a moment, now wondering what he is going to do. He has loved Elizabeth since he was a child, how can this be? He saved her from evil pirates, from Norrington... and...

All these reasons and excuses do not mean anything to him anymore.

“Answer me, Will!”

“Yes,” he whispers, “I love her Elizabeth... I love her.” Elizabeth’s face shows pure horror, tears now falling freely.

“Well, then... you’re going to see that she’ll leave you, Will! And you’ll have nobody! You’ll be alone!” she huffs and turns around, leaving Will to his packing.

“What am I doing?” he whispers, taking a seat on a chair nearby, “she’s right. I’m in love with somebody I can’t have.”

* * * *

You make your way into your cabin, crying freely. You have never felt so guilty in your life. You have to choose soon. But whose heart will you break? Will or Jack’s?

* * * *

Jack sighs as he takes a sip of his rum, watching the dark sky. Anna Maria takes a seat next to him, smiling softly.

“Havin’ women problems?”

“When am I not havin’ women problems?” he grins and she laughs quietly, watching him take another sip.

“Ye may not show it Jack, but I know yer worried about who she’ll pick. I know yer gonna tell me that yer confident that she’ll make the right choice and pick ye, but I know yer scared. And what will ye do when she doesn’t pick ye, and leaves ye fer Will?”

“I don’t know, Luv,” Jack says, looking at the now empty bottle of rum, “I don’t know.”

* * * * *

CHAPTER 12

You start to cry softly, your back against the wall of the small cabin you sit in. Darkness is around you, and you don’t wish for any light. You can’t get up, you can’t move, you can’t even feel. A cold rush sweeps through your body, and your bottom lip quivers as another rush of guilt runs through you. You never wished to harm the two men, but you did. And what has been done cannot be taken back. You place your hand over your moth to subdue your sobs which are getting louder, and your body shakes horribly. Your eyes sting as tears fall down your cheeks and onto your dress.

You silently apologize to Will, wherever he is. But what about Jack? You have to go on a journey with him! How can you face someone that you love but can’t return the same emotion?

“I’m sorry,” you whisper, your voice sounding similar to that of a child, so soft spoken and afraid, “I’m so sorry I hurt both of you.”

* * * *

Jack stands outside of your cabin, hearing your cries. His hand hovers over the knob of the door, but he wonders if it’s the right thing for him to go in there. Would he make matters worse for you? Or will he ease some tension? He leans on the door hearing your cries of redemption, then turns and leaves.

* * * *

It’s a few hours later and you stop crying, but you cannot go to sleep. You have to talk to Jack. You get up from your spot in the cabin and make your way onto the deck, and stop dead in your tracks, seeing Jack close by.

You want to kiss him, but you hold back. He looks mysterious under the moonlight, his face emotionless. He’s looking off into the distance, but his mind seems to be somewhere else. His shoulders are slumped and he’s holding a bottle of rum, and you quietly walk to him.

“Jack?” he turns his head to your direction and smiles, shaking his bottle of rum.

“’Ello.” you can cut the tension between you two with a knife, and you take a seat between you and him.

“Jack, I’m sor-”

“Enough apologies have been said tonight, Luv. No more.” you fiddle with your hands, and Jack quickly glances at you.

“My earliest memory when I was younger was the ocean...” you watch him as he looks at the waves, his eyes dark and thoughtful.

“Why do you love the ocean so much?” you ask.

“The ocean, it’s... endless... It’s a paradise. It’s freedom.”

“Hmm... that explains how I feel about books... somewhat... no matter what happens during the day, I’ll go and find a book, read it, get engrossed in it and forget about what happened. I find solace in my books.”

Silence creeps by, and you shift uncomfortably.

“Jack-”

“Luv, ye need to stop worryin’. Relax. Enjoy the view, eh?”

“So... there’s no... tension bewteen us?”

“O’ course not, Luv.” you smile and give him a hug, but then start to close your eyes.

“Go to sleep,” he says softly, nudging you to go back to your cabin.

“Sorr-”

“Ah! What did I say about apologies, hmmm?”

“Goodnight, Jack.”

“G’night, Luv.” he watches you walk away and he sips his rum, clumsily getting up from his seat and makes his way to the other side of the ship, humming a song you don’t know. Anna Maria watches Jack intently, quickly making her way over to him.

“What makes ye so confident she’ll drop this whole adventure and leave ye fer Will?”

“Luv, must I always remind ye...” he lifts his arms to his sides, grinning from ear to ear, “I’m Cap’n Jack Sparrow!”

* * * *

As you lay your head on your pillow, you really don’t feel any different. You still feel guilty, you still love Jack and Will, and you still can’t choose. You shut your eyes tightly and wish for the night to end, and you go into a dreamless sleep.

* * * *

It’s the next morning and Will sighs as he wakes up, stretching his arms. He hopes he’ll find you soon, and he quickly gets dressed. But where should he go in order to find out where you are?

“Tortuga maybe...” if you are going on an adventure with Jack, who would know?

“Norrington,” he whispers. He quickly gets up and picks up his bag, rushing to the Commodore’s house.

* * * *

Will knocks on Norrington’s door loudly, hoping he is there. No response came. Will curses and turns around, wondering where he would be. Suddenly the door opens and Will turns around again, coming face to face with an angry Norrington.

“Norrington!” Will clears his throat, “I mean, Commodore, may I speak to you?” Norrington looks inside his house and glances at the few soldiers inside, but nods.

“All right, Mr. Turner. What is it that you have come here for?” Will asks where you are and the Commodore’s face darkens.

“Actually, Mr. Turner, we are looking for her.”

“Well, that’s wonderful! Do you mind if I come along?”

“You don’t seem to understand what I am saying. We are looking for her. So are many people in Tortuga and Port Royale. There is a price on her head.”

“What?” gasps Will, “for what?”

“For helping to escape a group of fugitives, maybe even attempted murder.”

“Murder?!” the Commodore watches Will for a moment, and an idea pops into Will's head.

“You should have given her something more... severe.” Norrington’s eyes widen.

“You... you agree with my decision?”

“Of course I do! She helped pirates, PIRATES of all people!”

“But it was Jack! You’re friends with Jack,” added Norrington with disbelief.

“He seduced her! And she left me! She even tried to kill me! Now I want revenge, Commodore. If it’s anyone that’s going to kill her, it’s surely going to be me!” the anger on his face looks believable, and Norrington smiles.

“Welcome aboard, Mr. Turner.”

* * * *

You open your eyes and sigh, quickly getting dressed and walking over to Mr. Gibbs.

“G’mornin, Lass! How did you sleep?” he must be pretty dense to not notice the tension between you and Jack.

“Wonderful,” you reply. You force a smile then begin to tell him what you overheard Norrington saying.

“We’re going to head west for awhile, and then we’re going to come across an island...” you start going into detail and Mr. Gibbs nods, paying attention and looking at Jack occasionally, who is walking very clumsily, almost falling over the ship a few times, but then Anna Maria helps him back into the middle of the deck.

“Wait until yer sober ta walk on the side of the ship, Jack!”

“Luv, I’m as sober as an alcoholic!” that sentence makes no sense at all, and Anna Maria shakes her head.

“Right, Jack.”

* * * * *

CHAPTER 13

Although there seems to be tension between you and Jack, he doesn’t seem to remember any of it.

“Uh... Jack?”

“Ello, Luv!” he grins, shaking his bottle of rum. You quirk an eyebrow.

“Uh... about last night...”

“Tis forgotten!” he interrupts, taking a swig, “we cannot let this thing between us effect our mission!”

“Our mission, yes!” you agree, nodding. You really have to stop thinking about your decision on who you will pick. Mission first, men later.

“So, are we partners again?” he stretches out his arm and you shake it with a small smile.

“Of course, Jack.” Jack grins at you, his smile making you wonder what he is thinking about.

“We are almost to the island! No one can stop us now!” he exclaims, tipsily walking away.

* * * *

Will watches the sea intently, his mind thinking of so many things at once he resists to pull at his hair in utmost frustration. He hopes you will be all right, and if his plan will go through. If not...

He turns around as he hears Norrington start to speak, wondering what this announcement was all about.

“May I please have your attention, there’s been a change of some plans...”

Will does not like the sound of this.

“As you know, Jack Sparrow, a pirate whom we’ve been going after for many years, is once again out of our reach. But not for long. Not only will we have him within our grasp, but also, his accomplice. There were prices on their heads...”

Were? Were?

Will’s mind starts to race with all the things that can happen within the next seconds, and his heart drops as he hears the rest of the announcement.

“There WAS a price on their head. But not any longer!” Norrington ignores the looks of confusion of his men and continues, “They have something in their possession that does not belong to them. Once I get that item back they will be shot at once! Understood?”

Will’s body began to get numb, the words coming out of Norrington’t mouth seeming like a horrible nightmare that he cannot wake up from.

“And just our luck, we are near the island... get ready, we’ll be off here soon!” Norrington disappears, leaving Will to now create a new plan.

* * * *

It’s about an hour later and you are walking around the ship hastily, and Jack stops you in your tracks.

“If ye go aroun’ me ship one more time, Luv, yer gonna drive me crazy.”

“It’s just...”

“What, Luv?”

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this,” you whisper.

“Hah! Relax Luv, it’s jus’ smooth sailin’ now. Yer just tense, thas’ all. Ye got nothin’ ta worry about...”

“I should hope so!” you say quickly, and Jack rolls his eyes.

“Luv, when will ye learn to jus’ calm down and accept the fact that fate isn’t gonna throw somethin’ to get us off track? It’s not like Norrington isn’t behind us with a whole crew of men-” he turns around and points ahead of him, demonstrating his point.

“See-” his eyes widen as he sees a large ship heading in the same direction you are.

“Shit!”

“What what what!” you scream, clutching the sleeve of his shirt.

“I can’t believe it!”

“Who is that?!” you ask, looking at the ship.

“It’s Norrington behind us with a whole crew of men!”

“Dammit, Jack!”

“What?!!”

“You JINXED us!”

“Did not!”

“Did too!”

“Oh yes you did!” your voice gets louder and you start to wave your arms around wildly, as if that’s helping you accentuate your point, “what did you say? What did you say?!”

“I said-” he doesn’t get to finish as you continue. You try to copy his pirate slang and his deep voice.

“Luv, when will ye learn to jus’ calm down and accept the fact that fate isn’t gonna throw somethin’ to get us off track? It’s not like Norrington isn’t behind us with a whole crew of men!” you sneer, copying his wild antics and swaying.

“Hey! There’s no need to be pointin’ the finger now and blamin’ me! And by the way, yer a BAD impersonator!”

“So what do we do now, JACK?”

“We’re still goin’ for the treasure o’ course.”

“Jack, don’t you see what’s behind us? A BIG SHIP!”

“Luv, I’ve been in worse situations, it’s not like they’re-” you cover his mouth with your hand, glaring at him.

“Quit while you’re ahead! Now let’s think of an idea!”

“Luv, it’s not-”

“Ah ah!” you interrupt, stopping him again. He glares but decides not to say anything to jinx the both of you. You both turn away from each other, fuming. After a few minutes you break the silence.

“Think of anything?” you ask irritably.

“Nope,” is his quiet reply. He didn’t seem to be the least bit bothered by the fact that there is a ship coming to slaughter you.

“Anything now?”

“Nope.”

“Now?”

“Eh.”

“....What about now?”

“Gettin’ there.” you huff angrily and start to devise your own plan in case Jack thinks of something stupid.

“Ah!” he says all of the sudden, causing you to gasp in surprise.

“I got an idea!”

“What is it?”

“Here it is... everyone, gather ‘round!” the crew nods and closes in, listening intently to what Jack is about to say.

“Now, a few of us are going inside to collect the treasure!” he starts to list a few names including yours, himself, Anna Maria, Mr. Gibbs and a few others.

“Now, the rest of ye... are goin’ back on the ship.” the crew groans loudly, and Jack waves his hands around unusually to silence them.

“Quiet! Yer goin’ back on the ship to fight the other ship comin’!”

“Oh!” Jack rolls his eyes and smiles proudly at you.

“So... the few of us go inside, quickly get the treasure, come out and tried not to be shot at, get on the ship and pray that we don’t get killed, and hope we drive off into the sunset?”

“Basically.” your eyes widen and you thrust your arms into the air frustratingly towards the heavens, mentally asking God why you chose to go with a handsome but dense pirate. Maybe you just answered your question.

“That’s the stupidest idea ever!”

“Well then ye think of one!”

“Well, we have no choice but to go with yours!” Jack motions for the crew to go, while he grabs you by the arm and motions for some of his men to follow him.

Mr. Gibbs looks at you, expecting you to do something but you just shrug your shoulders. What could you do? Jack’s mind is set on this idea, and you have no choice but to follow it since you do not have the time.

“If we ever make it out alive Jack... I just want you to know one thing...” he grins and you are about to say a very sarcastic comment.

“Save it, Luv. I know ye luv me. And I know ye think this idea is bloody horrible, but since yer a stubborn bookworm, I know it’ll take time for ye to catch onto this idea.” Your eyes go into slits, your fists clenching. You feel that annoying vein pop out on your forehead, and Jack’s eyes widen. You finally can’t take it anymore. The stress of this adventure, the stress of Jack’s wit, hell, whatever it is, you’re angry.

And you have PMS.

Poor, poor Jack.

“Luv, ye got-”

“AHH!!!!!!” you scream, jumping on top of him and going straight for his neck, choking him.

“Now, Luv-*choke**hack*” you scream louder and shake him, while the crew watches with shock.

“Told ye she was daft, jus’ like Jack!” shouts Mr. Gibbs over the screams, while the rest just watch with confusion. Mr. Gibbs clears his throat.

“Ahem....the treasure, lads?” you turn to look at Mr. Gibbs, quietly releasing Jack from your choke hold.

“Fine, let’s go on....” Jack rubs his neck and glares at you, and Anna Maria squats next to him.

“That was a bit unexpected, aye?”

“Aye, it was. Did ye see all that anger comin’ out?”

“How could I not? Ye must be pretty angry yerself.”

“Actually... it kinda turned me on.” Anna Maria smacks her forehead, walking away and screaming in frustration.

“MEN!”

Once you get inside the cave, you gasp in awe. It is beautifully filled with ancient treasures, so priceless there cannot be a price placed upon them.

“All right, let’s start gettin’ em’ together.” you start to bag the things quickly, quickly taking a look at the book now and then.

Something happens... you look inside the book, the words almost seeming to make you stop and notice them.

“Jack...” Jack quickly glances at you, the crown on his head now tilting on his head at an angle. You ignore Jack’s look and continue.

“We already had the real treasure....”

“What?”

“We already had the real treasure, Jack!”

“No we didn’t! Look!” he exclaims, motioning at the items before him.

“Jack, the book is the real treasure! I should have noticed this before...”

“What?” you grunt in frustration and shake the book in his face.

“The real treasure, Jack! The real treasure is-” Before you can answer, a new voice joins in on the conversation.

“She’s right, Mr. Sparrow. You should’ve paid more attention to the book, then maybe you wouldn’t have gone through with this fiasco, and probably would’ve survive and lived off the expenses you would’ve made.” your eyes widen as you see who it is.

“It’s Norrington!” you hiss lowly to Jack. Jack doesn’t seem to be phased.

“Thank you for clearing that up, Luv. For a moment there, I thought I was losin’ my vision.”

“I think he’s just gonna kill us here, not at Port Royale.”

“Wait a second...” Jack says out loud, “how come yer not chasin’ after the Pearl?”

“Why Mr. Sparrow, that trick you tried to pull is the oldest trick in the book. Why would you ever think we would fall for something as thoughtless and stupid as that?”

“Whoops.”

* * * * *

CHAPTER 14

Your eyes widen at all the guns pointed at you, and you grab Jack's arm. How are you supposed to get out of this tight situation? Norrington looks at his crew, and waves with his hand for them to put their weapons away. Only his weapon remains in view, and in sight of you and Jack.

"What are we supposed to do now?" you hiss at Jack, watching Norrington cautiously.

"I'm thinkin' of somethin'," was Jack's quiet reply. Oh yes, that's so helpful. Before you can say something witty to Jack Norrington interrupts.

"Milady, I wish to make a negotiation with you. You give us the book, and we won't kill you."

"What?" you say, surprise evident in your voice. Norrington repeats what he said.

"Milady, make the right decision. You will not get a better one." you gulp and look at the gun, then at the book in your hands. You grip it tightly, knowing full well why he really wants the book. You hold it close to your chest, as if protecting it.

"Well? What is your decision?" he asks, his eyes darkening.

"No!" you spat, "you will never get the book!" Will is watching this all unfold silently, and his eyes fill with fear as he sees your response. Why didn't you take the offer? Why didn't you take it? Norrington's smirk grows into an evil frown, his eyes furrowing with growing anger and rage.

"Then so be it!" he points the gun at your head, ready to shoot. Before you or Jack can react a shout erupts.

"NO!" Will pushes Norrington out of your way, the gun falling to the floor and sending the bullet in another direction. You stiffen as you think it hits you, but sigh as you see no blood.

"Come on, Luv, no time for jus' standin' around!" Jack shouts, grabbing your hand and running to the other side of the large cave, hiding behind a deformed rock.

"Will!" you cry, watching Norrington kick Will in the face, blood spewing from the blacksmith's mouth and onto the ground. As Will's face meets the dirt, he groans as Norrington kicks him in the side.

"So you lied! You lied to all of us! You made me think you actually wanted to get revenge on that pirate wench! You came here to save her!" he shouts, his face red. Will just glares up at the Commodore, hate glowing in his eyes.

"You've sold your own soul, Norrington. You didn't come here to bring justice, to kill pirates. You came here for your own selfish needs!" you want to go help Will, but Jack is holding you back.

"He can handle himself, Luv. Right now we need to think of a plan to get out o' here!"

"I'm not leaving without him!" you shout, and shriek when a bullet hits the rock you're hiding behind.

"We're gonna have to leave the bloody whelp or we're goin' to die!"

"We're STAYING!" you growl, gripping the collar of his shirt. Jack rolls his eyes.

"Fine. But if we die I'll bother ye for the rest of yer afterlife."

"So be it! Now come on, let's think of a plan!" your eyes travel to some treasure nearby.

"I have a plan." you try not to watch as Will gets clobbered by Norrington, but Will does put up a good fight. Meanwhile the Commodore's crew is looking for you, and you try not to get noticed.

Will slams his fist into Norrington's chin, causing a loud crack to ring throughout the cave. Norrington smiles painfully, rubbing his chin.

"I should have killed you while I had the chance, Turner!"

"You should have." Will shoves his leg out, causing Norrington to trip and fall, and Will leaps on top of him, delivering punch after punch, never faltering or giving the Commodore a chance to retaliate.

Meanwhile, you make your way to the top of the cave to the small cliff nearby. You adjust your dress and sigh nervously. This plan BETTER work. Jack doesn't know much of the plan, and he asks what he can do.

"Just....stand there."

"Gee, thanks Luv, ye make me feel so important."

"In case anything goes wrong, then you take over!"

"Fine!"

You shout over all the commotion, holding the book in your hands.

"NORRINGTON!" Norrington and Will stop fighting, their full attention on you.

"I know why you want the book!"

"And why's that, Milady?" how could you ever know the real truth of the book?

"Because you want to take over Port Royale with this book!" the crew laughs, mocking you.

"Take over Port Royale with a bloody book? Are you mad?!" laughs an officer.

"It's true! This book is priceless! With it anyone could do anything! Including either murdering Elizabeth's father or sending him off to somewhere else and taking over Port Royale. I guess being a Commodore just isn't enough?" Norrington clenches his fists.

"So many lies are coming out of your mouth I just can't keep count, Milady!"

"Maybe because all those 'lies' are the truth, Commodore! The people just haven't seen this side of you!"

"Stop this! Liar!"

"Then I guess if I get rid of the book, you wouldn't be upset!" your hands grip the pages, as if ready to tear them to shreds. Norrington watches with utmost horror.

"NO!" his hands are outstretched, as if pleading for you not to do it. You grin nastily.

"So I am right. You DO want the book, and you DO care if I get rid of it!" Norrington looks around and finds his gun that dropped nearby when he and Will had fought just a few moments ago, and he points it directly at you.

"Give me the book or you die!"

"Never!"

"GIVE ME THE BOOK!"

"NEVER!" you look at Will who's lying on the floor, his face barely recognizable. He tries his best to get over to Norrington to try and stop him from what he is about to do, but no avail.

"Your LAST chance! Give me the BOOK!"

"NO!" Jack tries to figure out a way to stop Norrington, but there are just too many officers. He growls in frustration.

"Then it is your fault you will not live to see another day!" he pulls the trigger on the gun, and it hits you in your stomach, causing you to gasp and fall to the ground, clutching the area where you are hit. Your eyes brim with tears from all the pain, and you let the book fall from your hands, and it falls to the ground with a soft plop.

"NOOO!" cries Will, his eyes filling with tears. His hands begin to shake and a sob escapes from his mouth. He tries to get up but more blood spews from his mouth.

"You bastard! YOU BASTARD! I'll kill you!!" he cries, grabbing Norrington and bringing him back to the ground for another fight. His blood mixes with his own tears, and he takes out his anger on Norrington. He may not have much energy left, but he doesn't care. His knuckles are bloodied and numb, but he does not care. He feels his flesh burn with each punch he makes, but he doesn't stop.

"You killed her!" he repeats, finally stopping as some of the officers come and grab him. Meanwhile, Jack is trying to see if you're alive.

"Bloody 'ell," he whispers, grabbing your limp body.

He watches with horror as your eyes start to close, and you try to speak but only syllables are coming out. You try to grab Jack's hand for comfort, but he feels so far away. Tears fall from your eyes, shame and fear clearly showing.

"So sorry... sorry...." you whisper, and Jack grabs your shaky hand.

"Shhh, Luv, there's nothin' to be sorry fer..." he tries not to show his fear as he feels your body become colder, and he shakes you.

"Stay awake, Luv, stay awake..."

Will was still trying to break free from the officers, and he calls out your name in agony over and over again.

"Someone shut him up!" cries an officer, and with one quick swipe of their gun he slips into unconsciousness.

Jack sees that your grip on his hand is no longer there, and he caresses your face softly, as if your are a delicate treasure.

This is it.....

This is the end......

* * * * *

CHAPTER 15

This is it…

This is the end…

Jack holds you close to him, the heat from his body radiating off of you, and you moan painfully as your eyes unfocus.

“Luv, luv… stay with me!” he presses you close, and a loud clunk can be heard. Jack pulls back and looks at you curiously, hugging you again and getting the same results.

Clunk.

“Bloody ‘ell, what do ye got in yer dress, Luv?” he asks, blinking several times in curiosity. He wastes no time and opens your dress slightly, just to see what all the noise is about. He smirks as he pulls out a large silver plate that has the bullet that Norrington shot at you in it.

“Yer bloody brilliant, Pet! But where are ye bleedin’ from?” he places his hand on the back of your head, feeling a watery substance.

Blood.

You must have gotten it when you fell, and Jack starts to panic. This is NOT good. How is he supposed to get out of this situation this time? You groan and open your eyes and Jack smiles.

“Is it bad?” you mumble.

“O’ course not, Luv!” he says, forcing happiness in his voice.

“What are we… going… to do?” you wheeze.

“I’m gonna visit Norrington o’ course.”

“You’re crazy… there’s too many…”

“Luv, yer all about the numbers.” He starts waving his hands, making quote signs, “ye forget… I’m Captain Jack Sparrow!” before you can say anything else to try to talk him out of it, he is gone and already making his way to the crew.

“‘Scuse me!” he shouts over the commotion and passing bullets, “but I’ve got somethin’ to say!” some of the crew roll their eyes and put their guns down. Norrington motions for them to be quiet, and he makes a bloody smile.

“The floor is all yours, Sparrow. But then after you say what you want to say, I shall kill you.” Jack’s eyes widen.

“Well that’s not nice. ‘Ere I am tryin’ ta be all nice and tryin’ to get along, and then ye say yer goin’ ta shoot me.”

“I’m not in a nice mood, Sparrow. Now make it quick.” He cocks his gun and points it at Jack, and Jack gulps. This is NOT good. He does not have a plan, and now he is going to eat a bullet. How pleasant. Jack can see from a distance the Black Pearl is coming back around and he nervously shifts from side to side. He tries to figure out a way to bide the time….but how?

“Did ye know,” he began, “that castration is tha only way ta prevent hair loss?” Norrington snorts, obviously annoyed by this useless trivia.

“I didn’t know that!” whispers a soldier.

“SHUT UP!” screams Norrington. Jack just grins, and watches as some soldiers nervously cover their privates in horror. Will groans audibly and sinks back to the floor, too exhausted to deal with any more of Jack's stupidity and useless trivia.

Silence.......

More silence.....

"Ahem... well, anybody else up fer another useless fact?"

* * * *

"Almost there!" Gibbs cries, his eyes wide with anticipation. Anna Maria just nods.

* * * *

You moan and start to cough violently, spitting up blood. This was not good. You try to move but it's impossible, and you wonder what is going on nearby. You move your neck in an awkward and painful position, and see Will trying to stay awake. His eyes meet yours and he gives you a small smile. He tries to say something to you, but Norrington smashes his foot into Will's face.

"Enough! To the ship! NOW!" he points to where his ship is, and Jack smiles nervously.

"Go!" he points at Jack, and Jack glares.

"It isn't nice to point, mate." Norrington is just about to shoot Jack when a new voice is heard.

"That's enough, Commodore!" screams Mr. Gibbs, glaring angrily. Anna Maria is right behind him, pointing her gun at a soldier's head.

"Drop the gun, Commodore!" shouting and arguments start to begin, and Jack tries to get Will's attention.

"Will!"

"....."

"Will!" Jack hisses again, making odd head motions.

"What!" snaps Will, his eyes boring into Jack's with utter annoyance.

"I need yer 'elp. Get up."

"What?!"

"Get up!"

"Jack, have you seen how many soldiers there are?" Jack stops and looks around, silently counting to himself, his mouth moving slightly.

"Er... I can't count over twelve."

"AGH!!!!"

"Will, yer face is turnin' red, ye got to be careful of yer blood pressure..."

"Jack, there is twenty, TWENTY! Twenty of them!"

"Aye, but we got Mr. Gibbs, me, you, Anna Maria, who can give a good kick in tha privates when need be-Will, stop rollin' yer eyes at me. And then there's my crew! Ye have a dreary outlook on life, mate."

"If we live through this, I'm going to kill you."

"Why don't ye direct that anger and frustration towards ol' Norrington, hmmm?" asks Jack.

"Fine. What is your plan, Jack?"

"Oh ye know, the usual. Just get up and fight," he replies.

"I see."

"Trust me, Will!" Jack gives Will a big smile, gold and silver teeth all in view.

"Don't smile anymore, Jack. It's frightening." Will shakily gets up and wipes the blood from his face.

"Let's do it," he whispers. Jack nods. During the commotion Will picks up an unloaded gun and smacks it across a soldier's head, the sound of metal hitting a skull ringing throughout the now silent cave. Mr. Gibbs' eyes widen and he screams and hits another soldier, causing everyone to make the same move. A battle begins, and Jack scurries over to you on the top of the rocks, away from the fighting.

"'Ello, Luv! How are ye holdin' up?" more blood is flowing out, but Jack doesn't let you know that.

"Just wonderful, Jack," you whisper. Jack quickly gives you a small knife, and places it in your hand.

"Just in case, Luv! Gotta go now, gotta save the bloody whelp, he can't be down there alone fer two seconds!" he soon disappears and you try to stay focused. You quickly glance to your right and see the book nearby. A little dirty, but still in good condition. You slowly make your way over to get it in your grasp.

Meanwhile, Will is now once again fighting with Norrington. Will no longer has the gun, only his fists to help him against the Commodore. Norrington smiles.

"You are weaponless, Mr. Turner." Will smiles back.

"So are you."

"Then we shall die by each other's fists."

"So be it. But you will die, Norrington, I shall live long after this."

"Mr. Turner, your naivety amuses me. Neither of us shall live after this day."

"Commodore, your arrogance sickens me." Norrington grins and delivers the first punch, causing Will's head to snap back and hit the back of the cave.

"You are weak!" shouts the Commodore, "give up now, and I'll kill you quick." Will gasps and clutches his head.

"Never!"

"So be it. Your death shall be long and painful!" Norrington delivers punch after punch, and Will falls to the ground, his own blood making his vision almost gone. Norrington picks Will up by the hair, and Will clenches his teeth, not daring to scream, for he knew that's what Norrington wants.

"I am not killing you yet, Mr. Turner."

"I figured that." Norrington sees the book nearby, and his eyes get large. He sees you trying to get the book.

"Your wench still hasn't died yet." Will looks frantically at you, hoping that Norrington was not going to do what he thought he was going to do.

"You shall watch your love die first, then I shall kill you."

"Don't you touch her, DON'T YOU TOUCH HER!" screams Will, trying to break free from Norrington's grasp but it was no use, he is far too weak.

"Don't fight me, Will, you'll only lose even more strength." he drops Will nearby and makes his way over towards you, and he slaps you harshly across the face, making you temporarily blinded. Will shouts and tears form again in his eyes as he exhaustingly makes his way over to you. The Commodore grabs a gun from the floor, checks to see if it's loaded and points it at you.

"NO! DON'T! HAVE MERCY!" the Commodore leans over you and smirks. His face is just a few mere inches from yours.

"You worthless bookworm." you glare at him, your grip tightening on your other hand. You have the book, and you swipe it across his face, watching as he stumbles back. You hold the book threateningly.

"Move and I shall rip it to pieces! Then it shall be useless to all of us!" Norrington cocks the gun and points it at Will.

"Rip the book and I'll kill your lover." Your hand starts to shake, as you are now in a dilemma. If you put the book down and give it up, chaos will arise. If you don't give it up... Will is going to die. Tears form into your eyes as you think about what you are going to choose, and Norrington loses his patience, his eyes wide with fury.

"DROP THE BOOK! I NEED THAT BOOK!" some of the Commodore's crew looks up and watches with interest, seeing Norrington's voice so loud and needy.

"GIVE IT TO ME!"

"But Sir..." says a soldier quietly, the fight below now still, "it's just a book!"

"IT IS NOT JUST A BOOK!" he screams, his face red with anger.

"Look what it's done to you, Commodore," you whisper painfully, your head throbbing, "look what it has done to you. You had such a kind heart. This book has corrupted you. You are not yourself."

"I need that book. Without it, I will never be Governor, I will never get Port Royale. Now... give me the BOOK!" he extends his hand towards you, and you place it to your chest. Norrington grabs you by the neck, squeezing you harshly. Tears of pain form in your eyes and fall down your cheeks, your grip on the book now loosening.

"NO!" Will cries. Jack makes his way up to the rocks, trying to stop the Commodore from murdering you. You glare and with all your strength that is left in your body you take out the knife Jack gave you and jab it into Norrington's neck. Norrington's eyes show surprise and he stumbles back, gasping for air. Blood spews from the wound you just made, and you look at the sight with disgust. Jack stops and watches with surprise, and Will sighs shakily. You quickly make a tighter grip on the book, your body shaking with fear and adrenaline.

You look at the book in your hands, softly moving your hand across the worn cover. You have to get rid of it. You must destroy it. With all the strength left in you, you rip the book up, the pieces flying in the air and softly landing on the dirty ground. The book is now destroyed and now the world is safe. Although the world is now safe Jack looks as if someone took the Black Pearl and set it on fire...

But you saved the world.

Jack doesn't seem to care.

"BLOODY 'ELL!" you wince and put a hand to your head, feeling dizzy. You didn't know if you will be able to make it to the ship. All hell breaks loose as Commodore's soldiers grab their guns and load them, giving you and Jack's crew little time to make it safely to the Black Pearl. Will quickly makes his way over to you, his embrace bringing tears to your eyes.

"Will," you whisper softly, a smile on your face. He smiles back, tears escaping and falling down his cheeks.

"I'm sorry... for everything..." he whispers back, his eyes ridden with guilt and sorrow.

"Don't be sorry... don't be sorry..." you smile once more and caress his cheek, and he closes his eyes. As you study his handsome face for a few seconds a shot goes off and your hand drops from his face and back to your sides. Will's eyes are wide with fear as he watches your face pale to a ghostly white.

"No....NO!!!" his face contorts in horror as your body goes limp against his, and your eyes water with pain.

"Will... my back..." he takes a quick look at your back and feels his mouth go dry and his heart break. Someone shot you, and you are beginning to bleed profusely.

"Is it bad?" you mumble. Will shakes his head.

"No, Love, it isn't... it's just a flesh wound... just... a scratch..." he forces a smile, and you can see through his lie.

"You were always a terrible liar, Will...always..." your eyes begin to glaze over and he holds you closer to his body, his mouth trembling.

"We have to get you out of here... we have to leave..." he picks you up and carries you quickly outside, trying to dodge the bullets. However, he is not so lucky. With a shout he stumbles, making you drop into sand.

"Will!" you cry, and he quickly checks the wound.

"Just a graze! Come on!" he helps you up and takes you to the ship, and you grab his hand as you make it on deck.

"Will..."

"Yes?"

"Please... put me down..." you say weakly, "Will..." Will sighs and places you on the hard floor of the ship and you smile slightly.

"The sun is so beautiful today... the sky's so clear..."

"It is," Will says quietly, tears running down his face.

"I have never seen anything so beautiful... have you, Will?" Will simply nods, now feeling numb and mute. He cannot bring himself to speak. Your breaths are beginning to slow down, and it's beginning to be harder for you to breathe.

"Please... hold on, we are going to get you some help... please hold on!" urges Will, clutching your hand.

"Will... I don't think I can..." his eyes begin to water again, his voice if soft and pleading.

"Please... for me?" your eyes look toward the sky in awe.

"Look at me, look at me... don't look at the sky... don't look... look at me..." Will says, grasping your face in his hands. He knows that the life you have left in you is fading quickly, so he speaks to you with urgency.

"I love you... I'm sorry for pushing you away, for everything... please..." you take his hand and squeeze it.

"My whole life Will I've been shunned... I did something fun and amazing with my life... I know I'll never write another book... or see another town..." you ignore Will's sob and continue, "but... I do not regret kissing you... or smacking you with that book at my store..." Will laughs shakily and caresses your face.

"You look as if you'll never see me again, Will..."

"I... I..."

"We'll see each other again... I promise..." tears fall from your eyes and a small smile forms upon your lips, "I promise...." you start to gasp for air, the oxygen now leaving your body. With a final gasp you take one more look at the sky, and feel blackness engulf you. Will starts to shout, clutching your body and calling your name. Jack makes his way onto the ship, the last of his crew follows behind him. One of his crew members make their way to the helm, and Jack watches in silence and horror at your lifeless body.

"Will, is she-"

"Dead?! YES! She's DEAD, JACK! DEAD!" Jack makes his way over to you, his hand touching your face. He is trying hard to keep back his emotion, and Will gets up from where he is sitting.

"YOU BASTARD!" Jack backs away, half-shocked and half-cautious.

"Will-"

"You killed her! You are the one that ended her life!"

"Will, ye-"

"If it wasn't for your silly adventure, she'd still be alive!" he took out his sword, pointing it directly at Jack's neck.

"You deserve to die." in a flash Jack took out his sword, blocking Will's blow.

"Will, mate, yer angry, I understand, but I don't want to kill ye! Put the sword down!" the crew is watching with strong interest, but not daring to interfere. Will's hold on his sword begins to lessen, and he drops the weapon to the ground. It lands with a loud clatter, and Jack makes his way over to Will.

"She's dead..." Jack sits next to your body in silence, his heart pounding quickly, his emotions high.

"Bloody 'ell... she's dead..."

* * * *

It is now a few weeks later, and time has been slow and harsh. A figure is standing on a bridge, his face hidden in the darkness. One hand is holding a letter, while the other is holding a bottle. His hair is short, what can be seen of his face is clean-shaven. He looks below at the letter, silently reading it to himself as to make sure there are not many mistakes.

Beloved,

There are so many things I wish to write... but cannot bring myself to. I am now in Europe, for I can no longer stay in Port Royale due to our circumstances. Since you have been gone my life has changed dramatically, and I know things can never be the same. Me and Jack have gone our separate ways for now, and I have found myself doing temporary jobs until I can find a place to settle down. Although I was there when you passed, I feel as though our goodbye wasn't... enough closure for me. I know I cannot say goodbye to you now by any means, but the only thing I could come up with was a letter. I wish to write so many things... but I don't think my letter could fit into a bottle if I did. I know this will never reach you, nor will you ever see it, but... I feel this is a much better goodbye than what we had on that ship that day. I know that wherever you are you are much happier, and in a better place. Although it will be many years for me to see you again, I will never be free until I do. I will only see you in my dreams, and I guess that will have to do for now.

I love you.

Will

With a quick throw the bottle flies into the air and into the river below, and he watches until it is no longer visible. He turns and begins to walk away, back into the city. As he makes his way to his home, he runs into a stranger.

"Son, it's quite late. What brings you outside at this hour?" a ghost of a smile flashes across Will's face.

"I had to say goodbye to someone."

* * * *

Jack is leaning against his boat, watching the waves crash against his ship. His eyes are dark and unreadable, and Mr. Gibbs watches from a distance with worry.

"He's been like that ever since the day she died..." Anna Maria nods.

"It'll take some time. He feels somewhat responsible." they walk away and leave Jack alone, and Jack holds some flowers in his hand.

"Well, Luv, wherever ye are... I..." he stops and looks into the water again, watching the reflection of the moon.

"Ye already know how I feel about ye...too bad it was yer time ta go before anythin' could happen. I never had a greater adventure. And just remember...I always noticed ye... ye were better than the rest of em'... I guess wherever ye are yer accepted now... until we meet again, ye can take these flowers I got..." he looks down and looks at his odd array of flowers. They are an odd mix: lilies, roses, daises, and sunflowers.

"Erm... I know it's an unusual bunch... but... I was drunk at the time, thought they all looked the same... hope ye like em anyway..." he tosses the flowers into the ocean, and he rubs his eyes, his kohl getting on his hands. He sighs irritably and begins to walk away, but not without a large gust of wind blowing past him. He stops for a moment and lets the breeze pass by, and smiles softly. It almost sounds familiar, the sound of the wind, like a whisper.

He sways back to his cabin, with a bottle of rum in his hand. He looks at the sky, and gives a grin.

"Cheers, Luv."

THE END

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