Part II

If you've not read the first part, "Letter of Marque," you'll have no idea what's going on. Stop, go back, read it, then return here. The disclaimers are there too, but I do have one thing to say: this installment is not nearly so gory, but ever so much sexier…if you're under 18, go no further. Comments and feedback are encouraged! Send to vanderson@violetlizard.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the turn of the 18th century, Grand Cayman was a sparsely settled British colony. Georgetown, its main city, retained only a small local population of 400 or so. Island traffic, however, was a much larger proportion. Traders and navy sailors alike frequented the town, so that often its transitory population swelled to over a thousand. Bodden Town, located only a few miles from this 'metropolis,' was the haven for less legal sorts of activity. It was here that smugglers, pirates and privateers made their home while on the island. No one asked questions, unless they were looking for trouble. It was also here that the types of trade most associated with these groups popped up. Gambling, liquor, and prostitution were abundant in Bodden Town, and each could be found in all of the town's limited number of buildings. The Argonaut and its crew made frequent use of the welcoming hospitality of Bodden Town's finest establishment, The Blue Ray. For the crew, it was the closest thing to a home on dry land that they had.

Capt. Erin Skinner stood on the deck of her ship, looking over the railing at the beachhead that led to the town. For some time now, as they had neared Grand Cayman, the water around their ship had grown paler shades of blue, until Erin could clearly see 40 feet to the bottom into which they now dropped anchor. A small puff of sand ebbed and flowed in the spot where the anchor struck, finally settling after several minutes. The sun's reflection glinted off the white sand beach that lay ahead, and the crew could see others gathered there, enjoying a swim or laying in the shade of palm trees.

Erin could almost smell the roasting meat and ale that awaited her at The Blue Ray, and gave orders for the dingys to be lowered and the first group go ashore. Standing procedure meant that the crew would enjoy the bounty of Bodden Town in shifts. This would ensure that at no one time did more than two-thirds of the crew leave the ship unprotected. The first shift, a third of the crew, would row to shore, and remain for up to 12 hours. The second shift would take the other dingy to the island sometime during the 6th hour. The final shift would go to the island upon the return of the first dingy at hour 12. Erin was quite fair in her practices, and did not go ashore until the third shift. Penalties for infractions of these guidelines were severe. Only in special circumstances, such as injury or when fighting another ship at sea, could a crewmember remain off the ship for more than 12 hours at a time.

The only other time the crew stayed on land for extended periods were the infrequent visits to other islands. Here too, the 12-hour rule applied. Most of the men used their allotted time to drink and carouse, then returned to the ship only to sleep. Erin occupied her time by continuing to rest. It had not been that long since an encounter with a former crewmember had left her with two broken ribs. She was sleeping fitfully when a knock at the door woke her.

"Enter," she sleepily croaked.

Her first mate, Will Morgan, stooped as he stepped over the threshold. "How're ya feelin' this fine day?" Will said as he entered.

"Groggy, but better than I've felt in a couple of weeks," Erin responded, swinging her legs over the rail of her bed.

"Delia will be happy to hear that," Will leeringly said.

Erin squinted up at Will's tall figure, "You, boyo, keep your mind and your mitts off Delia."

The first mate held up a placating hand, "Are you daft?? Gisele would have my right ball hangin' over her door if I so much as looked the wrong direction."

Will mock shivered at the vision he'd created, and Erin laughed at his antics. "Well," he continued, "I jus' wanted to check w' ya before I left the ship."

Erin raised an eyebrow, "Oh, so you think you're leavin' with the second shift?"

"I know I'm leavin', even if I have to swim."

Erin laughed again and said, "Would you tell Delia I'll be along as soon as I can?"

"I've no doubt she already knows we've weighed anchor, and is at this moment bathing in oils in preparation."

"'Bathing in oils'?" Erin laughed, "Where do you get this stuff, Will?"

"Overactive imagination. My Da usta whale the tar outta me for daydreamin'."

Erin smiled, "At least until you got big enough to hit back….which was when? You were six, right?"

"Is that a crack about my height?" Will deadpanned.

Erin shrugged, "If the size 14 shoe fits…."

"Well, Captain Leprechaun, at least I kept growin' after age six, which is more'n I can say about some wee folks around here."

Before Erin could respond with another sharp retort, there was a crisp knock on her cabin door. "It's a darn fine thing I didn't need any rest," she muttered. "Enter."

The crewmember who knocked was the cook's assistant, and he opened the door, but did not step into the room. Even as small a vessel as the Argonaut was, he had never been near the Captain's quarters. Twisting a well worn cap in his hands, he shifted from foot to foot as he stammered, "B-beggin' yer pardon, Cap'n. I'm right sorry to be botherin' ya…."

Erin interrupted, trying to put the young man at ease, "It's quite alright. Mr. Kensington, is it?"

The young man smiled, glad that the Captain remembered his name, even though he had only just come on board a few weeks before. "Yes, ma'am."

"Mr. Morgan and I were just discussing our island visit. When are you due to head for shore?"

The young man nodded his head in Will's direction to acknowledge his presence, then said, "I'm leavin' on the second shift. But that's not why I've come."

"Well, then," Erin replied, "what can I do for you?"

"It's the oddest thing, Cap'n. Ya see, the cook, he put me in charge of fetching the supplies he might need to cook with…and I don't want no one to think it was me that done it."

Erin was naturally puzzled, "Done what, Mr. Kensington?"

"Well, ma'am, food's missing."

"Missing?"

"Yes, ma'am. I been told to keep count of wot we use so's cook can plan and get more if we need it. It's not much that's gone above wot we use, but it's enough to be noticed."

"Exactly wot's missing?" Will chimed in.

Kensington pulled a slip of paper from his vest pocket, "Near as I can figure, in the t'ree weeks since we left, we're missing a quarter barrel of water, half box of dried meat, and one box of dried apples, and three tins of biscuits. Oh, and 6 bottles of ale."

"Is it possible those supplies were overlooked while we had our guests from Mr. Gib's auction?" Erin wondered.

The lad shook his head, "No, cap'n. Like I says, I keep good track. I took stock right before we left."

Will and Erin exchanged a look that the boy mistook for disbelief. "Really, Cap'n, Mr. Morgan, I kin show yew me books…."

Erin held up both hands to stop the assistant cook mid sentence, "There's no need for that, Mr. Kensington. I believe that Mr. Morgan and I are thinking the same thing. What do you say, Mr. Morgan?"

Will scowled, "I'm thinkin' wot we have is either some very large rats, or a stowaway."

"My thoughts exactly," Erin confirmed, "about the stowaway, not the rats. Honestly Will, that's disgusting."

The assistant cook snickered, and Will turned an evil eye his way, "Yew, laddie, can be replaced. The Captain is allowed such levity with me, but no other word leaves this cabin, is that understood?"

Mr. Kensington stood at ramrod attention and squeaked, "Yes, sir."

Erin, not sure whether Will was completely serious or not, piped up, "Thank you, Mr. Kensington, for bringing this to our attention. We'll take it from here. You're dismissed."

The young man nodded, and ran back towards the galley. Will walked over and shut the cabin door and turned to see an angry looking Erin, scowling at him with her hands on her hips.

"Wot?" he feigned innocence.

"You know what," Erin responded, "you nearly frightened that lad to death, Will. No need for threats, you know."

"Erin, I'm of a mind that yer too lax with these boyos. I been meanin' to say somethin' fer a while now. The crew gets too friendly with their Cap'n and discipline goes out the window."

Erin truly was angry now, but tried not to let it show. "How long have you thought this?"

Will, knowing his captain better than he knew anyone could tell she was furious with him. "Not long. It had't really been a problem…YET. Yer a great leader, Erin, but I don't want the men getting' any ideas about yew bein' weak in any way."

Erin's anger quickly dissipated. Clearly Will was, as always, looking out for her welfare. "I appreciate the advice, Will. It just gets difficult sometimes being on alert all the time. While I want the crew to respect me, I don't want them to fear me. It's a fine line I walk."

Glad that his advice had been taken to heart, Will grinned at Erin, "Yer right. It's a tough spot to be in. But that's why yew get the king's share of booty."

Erin scoffed, "Yeah, right. I'll be sure to watch my levity more in the future, except, of course, with you." Will nodded affirmative. "Now," Erin said rubbing her hands together, "let's go catch us a whey-faced stowaway."

Will laughed, "Seems to me I recall a certain someone stowing away on…"

Erin put a hand over Will's mouth, "Not another word, bucko. All stowaways on my ship are heretofore 'whey-faced' or 'shag-eared' or whatever I chose to call 'em. In my day, I was simply resourceful."

Will removed her hand, "Oh, is that wot we're callin' it these days? Resourceful. I'll keep that in mind next time I swipe yer ale when yer not lookin'."

Erin snickered and waved Will out as she reached for her cutlass and scabbard and put it around her waist. Will waited outside the cabin door until Erin was finished splashing water on her face and running a brush through her hair. As she emerged from his cabin, he guffawed, "Took yew long enough. Wot need have yew to tidy up?"

"Stowaway's not going any place. Besides, didn't you just tell me I needed to appear the leader at all times?"

"I said I wanted to be sure the men respected yew, not lusted after ya," Will replied.

"Oh, it's way too late for that. They already lust after me," Erin joked.

Will pretended to double over in laughter. "It's not THAT funny, bucko. Come on. You lead the way in case the lean-witted bastard's dangerous."

"'Lean-witted bastard?' I like that one."

Will and Erin gave Jonas the bridge, and started down the stairs to the hold below. Will whispered as they neared the food storage hold, "Why is it that we always end up doin' this stuff?"

"Because," Erin whispered back, "we lead by example."

"Yeah, but we could set a' example without putting ourselves in danger."

Erin scoffed, "Danger? Bah. This is child's play. Besides it's fun."

Will smirked, "Remind me not to follow whenever yew say somethin's gonna be 'fun'."

"Shhhh, the bilge-rat will know we're coming," Erin waved Will behind her and she stealthily opened the storage room door, ducked low under its bulkhead, and slowly moved about the room. After a short time, Erin motioned Will to remain still, and they both just stood and listened. The ever-present sound of timber creaking, and the faint sounds of the shouts of the crew could be heard above, but nothing else. Finally, after some minutes, with sweat dripping in his eyes, Will was about to tell Erin to give up the ghost and have some other crew members find their prize, when they heard a small scraping sound from the corner of the room. They both crept closer until they were as close to the noise as possible without being seen. Will moved further, and was able to see over the top of the three small crates of breadfruit stacked there. In the dim room, he could just make out a slight figure rolled into a fetal position. He pointed to the location of the stowaway for Erin and held up one figure to indicate the number of people, and then his thumb and forefinger together to display the person's small size.

"All right, lad, we've found your hiding place. You may as well give yourself up," Erin spoke loudly.

There was a small groan from behind the crates, then from the corner emerged a somewhat dirty and very stiff woman. "Took you long enough to discover me. Wasn't sure how much longer I could stand it down here," the stowaway complained.

Erin arched one eyebrow, and said faintly, "Well, I'll be damned. So you found a way back onto my ship after all, Miss Rembert?"

The woman emerged from behind the crates to reveal a disheveled Cecile. "It wasn't really that difficult, Capt. Skinner. Your security is surprisingly lax."

Erin, not sure whether to be angry or bemused, was trying very hard not to show either. "You'll follow us up to the bridge, Miss, and you will not speak a word to myself or First Mate Morgan. Understood?"

Cecile, mistaking Erin's business-like demeanor for anger, merely nodded acceptance. They all made their way onto the deck, with Cecile sandwiched between Erin and Will. Cecile had spent days in the hold, and upon emerging on deck, she had to completely shade her eyes from the bright sunlight. Will nearly ran into the back of her when she stopped to cover her eyes, and seeing that she was momentarily blinded, he took her by the upper arm and led her up the stairs to the quarter deck.

Once on the quarterdeck, Will blew briefly on a whistle that he kept on a chain with his newly gotten pocket watch. Erin smiled at him again remembering how he'd swiped it from Governor Dudley. The whistle call was the signal for the crew to gather around on the main deck below for announcements and pronouncements. Once the crew was assembled, Erin held up one hand to silence their murmuring before speaking.

"Well, lads, seems we have a stowaway in our midst," Erin began as she waved her hand in Cecile's general direction. The men responded with good-natured booing and hissing, until Will took it upon himself to remove the kerchief on Cecile's head and reveal her lustrous black hair. At once the noises changed to appreciative cat calls and whistles. Erin again held up her hand to silence the men, then placed one booted foot on the railing and leaned her arm on her knee in a casual stance. "The question is, what shall we do with her?"

Various shouts came out of the crowd. "'ang her from the crow's nest" and "The Plank!" could be heard. Cecile blanched considerably at these suggestions. She had been under the misguided impression that once found, she would be summarily tossed from the ship onto the first convenient island. Erin glanced in Cecile's direction and couldn't help but smirk at the panic she saw on her face.

"All right, all right, enough," Erin piped up. "Since there's still a two-thirds majority on the ship, I don't think the other boyos will mind if we put it to a vote while they're cavorting on the island." Erin pretended to be thinking about Cecile's fate, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "Here's what we'll do. Our uninvited guest can either learn to do the Dance of the Seven Veils, and perform it for the entire crew tomorrow or…let's see…work off the entire amount she owes us for food and drink."

"Dancedancedancedance," the crew shouted back.

Erin turned to Cecile, and said, "You heard them. Ever danced the Seven Veils before?"

Cecile, doing her best to appear brave, drolly commented, "Not before such an appreciative audience."

Will guffawed at Cecile's comment, and Erin shot him a dirty look. "Well, then, Miss Rembert, you're in for some fun. I'll have Will fetch his girl from The Blue Ray, she's a right fine dancer, and we'll get started immediately with lessons upon their return. If you'll follow me to my cabin, you'll wait there with me."

Cecile nodded in acquiescence, but before she could take a step, Erin motioned to Will who used Cecile's kerchief to tie her hands together behind her back.

"What are you doing? Are you mad?" Cecile seethed.

"No ma'am, just cautious," Will replied. "Wouldn't want yew getting' any ideas about swimming to shore or anything."

Cecile only glared at Will, and meekly followed Erin down the stairs to the main deck, and into her cabin.

Erin pointed to a chair next to her bunk, "You can sit there. Do you want some water?"

Cecile raised an eyebrow, and said sarcastically, "Will I have to dance some more to earn it?"

Erin tried not to laugh, "Makes no never mind to me if you go thirsty. And, yes, every person on this vessel works for their share, so I guess you'll be dancing until you drop." With that parting shot, Erin sat down at her writing desk, with her back turned to Cecile, humming a tune and quite satisfied with herself.

~~~~~~

Cecile sat and stared in open wonder at the back of Erin's neck. She had tried several times to engage the Captain in conversation, but it seemed Erin was intent on ignoring her. Why is it, she thought, that my hands are continually tied of late? Looking around the sparsely appointed cabin, she felt vaguely let down that it was not more flamboyantly decorated. The chair in which she now sat was comfortable enough, made from cherry wood and blue velvet upholstery. Along the wall to her right was the Captain's bed. Unmade white cotton sheets and a course wool blanket were all that covered the frame. It was neither very wide, nor very long. The only concessions to creature comforts were the numerous pillows scattered along the wall and on the floor. Judging by the disarray, the Captain did not sleep well. Erin sat in a chair that matched her own at a plain desk. Along the wall to Erin's right was a large table with maps, a bowl of fruit, a compass, a telescope, a mug, and a rather lethal looking knife.

Cecile cleared her throat and tried again for conversation, "Well, if you're not going to talk with me, I think I'll lie down."

Erin turned slowly to face her, "Do you have a pillow?"

Cecile was nonplussed, "Well, I thought I could just use one of these…."

"No, no, you misunderstand. Each of my…um, 'conquests' shall we say? Each of them has brought a pillow to me as an offering for the pleasure of lying in my bed. Since I allow no one to sleep there uninvited, those who do are generally invited for a very specific purpose. Since you're not my type, I'll only issue the invitation unless you have a special talent to share AND a pillow for me. Otherwise, you won't be laying down any where in here."

"Special tal…?" Cecile finally understood, "I…I…." She didn't want to appear naïve or inexperienced in front of this woman, but she didn't want to seem whorish either. "You know perfectly well I do not have a pillow with me."

Erin shrugged, "Your loss," and turned her back again.

With nothing to do, and no one to talk with, Cecile found herself dozing in the warmth of the closed room. Upon first entering the cabin, Erin had thrown open the only window to shed light on her work table. While a faint breeze now blew into the room, carrying with it the scent and sound of water, it did nothing to cool the tropical heat. Cecile could see a thin line of sweat in the middle of Erin's back as she leaned over the desk working-it was evident in the way her white shirt stuck slightly to her mid back. In addition to the gentle lapping of water against the hull, Cecile was lulled by the muted scratching of Erin's pen across the paper on which she worked. Patience was not one of Cecile's strong suits, and she was also unable to get any additional information about this dance she was expected to perform. Forced to wait out Erin's silence, her mounting frustration and curiosity grew.

All at once, in a lightning move, Erin stood and spun her chair around setting it very close to Cecile until their knees were nearly touching. She then waved the paper under Cecile's nose. "Now then, missy," she started, "here's how I figure it. You owe the crew of the good ship Argonaut a total of 5 shillings for the provisions you stole. We pay each man a basic wage of 2 shillings per day to perform his duties. Provided you are able to pull your weight, you'll get the same wages, and be out of here in no time."

Cecile was stunned, "But I thought I was supposed to dance?"

Erin barked a laugh, "No, lass, that's the crew having a wee bit o' fun with you. Anyone caught doing petty stealing works it off. Larger theft has a stiffer penalty. Good thing we found you when we did, before you ate your way to a flogging."

Seeing that Erin was only teasing her, Cecile let out a sigh of relief. "Besides," Erin continued, "the Dance of the Seven Veils requires the dancer to strip naked, and I won't have any woman subjected to that on my ship."

Cecile tried joking, "Naked?? Well, it's a good thing no one here will be subjected to that. Your poor crew doesn't need the torture."

Erin looked closely at Cecile and mock shuddered, "Oh yeah, I pity the lads that would have to go through that."

Is she flirting with me? Cecile wondered. Oh well, no matter, I'll be off this ship in a couple of days.

"So, what's on this paper you're sticking in my face?"

"Every man on my ship is as good as his word. Still, I'm a firm believer in getting as much as possible in writing. This here's a contract of sorts wherein you promise to do your share of the work, and we promise to pay you 2 shillings a day, and release you once you're debt's paid."

Cecile again raised her eyebrow, and said incredulously, "I never knew pirates to be such men of honor."

"Well," drawled Erin, "You'll notice first that I'm not a man, and second we're not the standard against which all pirates should be measured. I run my ship my way. Now, are you willing to sign?"

Cecile nodded, "If you'll just place the pen in my mouth, I'm sure I can make some kind of mark…."

Erin tsked and shook her head, "I'm not daft, you know. I was going to untie you." Then she said in all seriousness, "Before I do though, I warn you I'm being a good host right now in the privacy of my quarters." Erin then stood directly over Cecile, and cupped her chin painfully, so that Cecile was forced to look directly up at Erin, "You are already on thin ice with me. I'm not remotely happy you boarded my ship without permission, or that you've stolen provisions. You will show me the respect due me as Captain in front of my crew, or you'll suffer their same punishment for insubordination. It's 3 lashes for each infraction, got it?" Cecile nodded, seeing the flash of power and anger behind Erin's green eyes, and feeling for the first time afraid.

Erin untied Cecile's wrists, and she looked at the 'contract' while she rubbed circulation back into her hands. "Wait," she said, "this says I'll be onboard for 30 days. How can that be? I owe 5 shillings and you pay 2 a day…."

Erin smiled, "Well, you do plan to sleep and eat while your on board, yes?" Cecile nodded slowly. "Since you're not a member of my crew, I'm charging you 1 shilling, 10 pence per day for room and board." Erin forestalled what she could see was Cecile's growing rant, "It's a perfectly fair rate. You'll not find a better cook in Martinque, so you won't suffer in that regard and you'll have to bunk with me so as not to tempt my men. Semi-private room, you might say…."

Cecile could not decide whether to feel furious or defeated. She really had no argument with the terms of the contract, but she was also in a great hurry to get home. "Can I negotiate these terms?" she asked.

Erin folded her arms and shrugged, "You can try."

"All right. I see the need to bunk with you, so I'll concede that point. I really don't think, however, that even when pulling my fair share of duties, and I will do just that, that I will eat nearly as much as a full-grown man. Did you base the cost of my meals on that kind of consumption?"

Erin nodded, "Yes, I did."

"Then, let's say I eat 2/3 of what a man normally eats. What kind of offer would I get?"

Erin, secretly pleased that Cecile had done so well negotiating, felt generous. "Tell you what, I'll amend the contract. IF you pull your weight, and IF you really only eat 2/3 of what, say, Mr. Morgan eats, I'll consider charging only 1 shilling, 6. If you do as much as you say, you'll be off the ship in 10 days, not 30. I will, however, be the judge of whether you're working well enough, and I won't starve you if you want more food. Deal?"

"If I continue to work and pay extra, would you be willing to sail to Martinique?" Cecile tried one more tack.

"A colony under Spanish rule? With me running under a British flag? No, lass, we'll stay here for at least 10 days, so you can catch the first ship heading your way. Again, only providing that you pay the debt in that time. Be thankful I'm willing to put you on dry land at all."

~~~~~~~~~~~

Three days had passed since Erin and Cecile had struck their bargain. During that time, Erin had observed Cecile's interaction with the crew, as well as her ability to "keep up." While Cecile had made a valiant effort, it was clear that she was not used to working under such adverse conditions. Spending time holed up as a stowaway also likely did nothing to improve her constitution.

On day one, she was assigned the task of lookout. Cecile, completely unaware that she was afraid of unsecured high places, gamely tried to reach the crow's nest. She made the mistake of looking down about halfway up the rope ladder. At that height, the ship's mild rocking became quite intense. The motion coupled with the location made Cecile turn green with sickness. She swallowed, and tried again to climb, but lost the contents of her stomach before she could go any further. Her next task, naturally, was to swab the deck. She did this well, until it was discovered that she used fresh water stores instead of hoisting sea water onto the deck. This mistake, Erin conceded, had not been Cecile's fault because no one instructed her on the task.

Day two, Erin placed Cecile under Jonas' tutelage and asked him to literally "show her the ropes." That is, how to make the rope necessary to maintain repairs on the ship's rigging. Jonas, a patient man, did his best to help his captain by teaching the novice but she never seemed to grasp the fundamentals. Several times, he was forced to undo the work she'd completed and ask her to do it again. Both gave up in frustration, and Jonas set her to work cleaning cannons. This, Cecile did quite well, but it was dirty, exhausting work, and she went to bed right after supper.

On day three, Erin returned to her cabin to find Cecile still asleep well after sunrise. She knew that Cecile was not used to the workload, and was probably exhausted. But she also knew that she wanted to help get Cecile off her ship as quickly as possible. Too, she had foregone her visit to The Blue Ray in order to keep an eye on Cecile's work, and Will reported that Delia was getting very impatient. Erin stood in her cabin for a moment, gazing down at Cecile's sleeping form. She was surprised to discover that, as much of a pain in the ass as Cecile had been, she was impressed with her tenacity. Regardless of the danger from heat stoke, sickness, and even death, Cecile had stowed away in order to find her father and make sure he was well. Erin knew that in her place, she would have done the same thing. The captain also knew, however, that she could not afford to cut Cecile any slack. The men, as Will reminded her, would see this as a sign of weakness and favoritism.

There was very little light in the cabin once Erin shut the door behind her, but she could make out Cecile's profile against a pillow. I'll bet she's considered quite a catch where she comes from. That hair alone is beautiful, not to mention those startling blue eyes. Erin shook her head to clear these thoughts. Now where did that come from? It's been way too long since I've seen Delia. Speaking of which….

Erin lightly shook Cecile's shoulder, "Hey, sleepy head, wake up." Sleepy head?

Cecile rolled over onto her back, stretching her arms above her head. Seeing Erin, she smiled up at her. It was only a moment, put the intimacy displayed in that disarming smile struck a chord deep inside Erin. She could have sworn at that moment that a large wave hit the side of the Argonaut, so heavy was the feeling in the pit of her stomach. Cecile's smile turned to a puzzled frown when she caught a glimpse of the expression on Erin's face. "What's wrong? What is it?" she questioned.

"Hmmmm?" Erin replied.

"You just looked…I don't know, like somebody had hit you…dazed…." Cecile concluded lamely.

Erin struggled to keep her wits about her, "Uh, no. I'm fine. Really." She paused, and Cecile said, "Well, good then." Cecile swung her legs over the side of the bed, and groaned, "I've never been this sore in my life. Not even breaking horses is this hard."

Erin raised an eyebrow, "Indeed? And how many horses have you broken, Miss Rembert?"

Cecile smiled at Erin, "You have the loveliest brogue. Has anyone ever told you that?"

Erin laughed to cover her embarrassment, "As a matter of fact, someone has. And that someone is waiting for me as we speak."

Cecile tried to hide her disappointment that Erin had someone waiting for her, then spent some time trying to figure out why it was that she should feel disappointed. Erin said into the silence, "You didn't answer my question."

"What? Oh! Yes, well, that's what I do on my father's farm. Break horses that is. The poor things have suffered through an ocean voyage by the time they get to me though, so I'm afraid they're fairly docile."

Erin, who knew nothing about horses, just nodded in response. "I've come to let you know that I'm leaving the ship for a bit. I'll be back by dark. Mr. Morgan and Jonas will look after you. You've been reassigned to assist young Mr. Kensington in the galley. Can you cook at all?"

Cecile, who'd never so much as seen the inside of a kitchen, simply shrugged and said, "I do alright."

"Well, it's about half past 9, and Cook and Kensington expected you at 7, so you'd best get a move on."

Cecile jumped up and started dressing frantically, giving Erin an eyeful of her backside. "9:00?? How could you let me sleep this long?"

"And when did I become your maid servant?"

Cecile stopped frantically dressing, and turned chagrined, "Sorry. I'm used to….sorry."

Erin smothered a smirk, "I'll be at the Blue Ray. Mr. Morgan can get me in 30 minutes if anything goes awry."

Cecile nodded, then added, "See you at dinner?"

"Not likely. It'll be full dark when I get back."

~~~~~~~~~~

Erin took the first available skiff; fairly jumping over the rail of the ship in her haste to see 'her girl.' She arrived at The Blue Ray by late morning. The streets were painted in a warm glow, and the air, while only just starting to heat up, was heavy with moisture and the scent of the sea. Pausing only long enough to pick a handful of tropical flowers as a peace offering for Delia, Erin practically ran to the inn. She was smart enough to know that Delia had feelings for her, and while a local prostitute, the captain treated her with the respect she felt due all women. Excuses for being late would not be proffered, but apologies would.

Inside the tavern, Erin spotted some of her crew. They all knew where she was going, and while she tried to avoid detection and a cacophony of catcalls, crewman Billingsly spotted her just as she put one foot on the bottom stair.

"Ahoy, cap'n!" he shouted to be heard above the din. The room became noticeably quieter, and Erin turned to face the teasing.

"Ahoy, there, lads. Enjoying yourselves?"

A general rumble of agreement rose in the room, then Billingsly spoke up again, "Yer girl's waitin', Cap'n." He said nodding towards the stairs, "Enjoy yersef too."

Erin, playing along, said leeringly, "Oh you can count on it. Don't wait up for me boyos."

The whistles and shouts followed Erin up the stairs and could still be heard as she walked to the end of the hall. Before she could even knock, Delia had thrown open her door and leapt onto Erin's body, wrapping her long legs around Erin's waist and planting a smoldering kiss on her lips. Trying not to drop the flowers or the woman, the captain moved into the room and shut the door.

The kissing paused long enough for Erin to say, "If this is the kind of greeting I'll get, I'll be late more often."

"Don't… 'kiss' … you… 'kiss' …dare, Erin Skinner."

Erin pulled back and looked into the dark brown pools of Delia's eyes. "Please believe me when I say I got here as quickly as I could. I've dreamed of you since we left Tortola."

This set off a fresh flurry of kisses that quickly escalated into more passionate embraces. Erin carried Delia, who was still attached to her hips, over to the bed and laid her down as gently as possible. Standing at the edge of the bed, she reached down and pulled Delia's blouse up over her head, tossing it in the corner. Delia was already breathing heavily, wanting Erin's gentle touch with a hunger she experienced with no one else. Erin smiled and took one of the flowers from the bunch she still held, placing the others on a table next to the bed. She extended the stem, and first traced Delia's forehead and chin with the soft, fragrant petals. Delia closed her eyes and inhaled deeply savoring the scent. Slowly, Erin swept the petals across the ebony skin of Delia's neck, and down her shoulders settling on her breasts. The nipples immediately darkened and hardened, and a soft moan escaped her lips.

Erin broke the silence, "Hello, my sweet. I've missed you."

"And I you, Captain Skinner. Come to bed."

Erin placed the flower on Delia's chest, and removed her scabbard and shirt. She was about to remove her pants when she noticed that another table has been moved into the room, and a cozy lunch had been set up. The table had on it several candles, a bowel of fruit, a loaf of bread, and a bottle of wine. Erin moved to the table and picked up a handful of strawberries.

Delia sat up and spoke from the bed, "Don' tell me you're actually going to eat NOW."

Erin laughed, "All this time, and you still don't know me." She then walked to the bed, and allowed Delia one bite of a strawberry. Using the luscious fruit, she ran the juices over Delia's nipples before claiming one between her teeth. "I almost forgot how much I love to watch you eat," Delia teased.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Erin rolled over and could see a faint light in the sky beyond the window blinds, and looked at the softly snoring beauty next to her. Her 12 hours nearly up, Erin was thankful that she had spent the first 6 of it making love and eating…well, making love at any rate.

Erin propped herself up on one elbow and took these last moments to observe Delia while she slept. Not beautiful in the traditional sense, it was Delia's heart that attracted Erin most. For someone so ill-used by society and the men within it, Delia was surprisingly gentle and kind. It was these qualities that had first formed their friendship. It was Delia's patience and perseverance that made them lovers. Long before Erin would admit her attraction, Delia could see the hungry looks the pirate gave her whenever she came to The Blue Ray. On one visit, the more worldly woman had simply taken Erin's hand and led her upstairs. For Erin, it had been the closest she had come to knowing the divine since she'd lost her faith. For Delia, it was the sweetest moment in an otherwise difficult life. Now the two of them shared more than just sexual intimacy. They spent long hours talking and even more hours sitting in silence simply spending time together.

Delia was deeply in love with the young captain, but Erin held only deep affection for Delia. Erin honestly did not think her feelings were those of a soul mate or even ardent lover. True, Delia has awakened things in Erin that she had never before experienced, but the yearning she felt in Delia's presence was only sexual in nature, and not that of kindred spirits. Much to Delia's constant disappointment, Erin's feelings did not change. The captain showered her lover with all the attention and affection she had while at The Blue Ray, but never once expressed the kind of love that Delia hoped for.

As Erin looked at the form sleeping in the bed next to her, she felt quite sad that she couldn't return Delia's feelings. She longed to know what it was like to have someone haunt her every waking thought, to feel complete with her love by her side. As for Delia, she felt longing, but it was borne from proximity not distance. Try as she might, Erin displayed only affection and gratitude; but not the grand passion Delia expressed to her.

Putting a stop to her contemplation, Erin rose from the bed. It wouldn't do to break her own rules. It was near dark outside, and she would be lucky to catch the skiff back to the ship. Her pants and shirt on, she turned while putting on her sash, and could see Delia was now awake. The dark woman held out her hand and said, "Can't ya forget the rules jus' once? Come back to bed, love."

Erin sighed, "I wish I could, darlin'. Aside from relieving a few lads so they can come ashore, I've got a stowaway who's about to drive me to distraction."

Delia devilishly said, "Stowaway? Why ain't he hangin' from the yardarm? That'd keep him in his place, and leave you free to spend time with me."

Erin laughed, then explained the 'Cecile situation' in an abbreviated version while she finished dressing. She pulled on her last boot, and said, "So you see, I've got to put up with it for a bit until she works off her debt."

Something in Erin's speech sparked Delia's interest. The captain got an almost wistful look on her face when speaking about the stowaway. She'd not seen Erin speak about anyone this way, and doubted Erin even knew she was doing it. She'd have to wrangle an invitation to the ship and meet the woman she now considered a rival for Erin's attention.

Erin slid her sword into her scabbard and said, "My sweet, I've got to stay on the Argonaut for a bit this time, but…how about we do this…I'll return tomorrow at dusk and we can enjoy a moonlight swim and supper? How does that sound?"

Delia stretched languidly, and said, "I'll hold you to that, my captain."

Erin leaned over for one more kiss, before departing The Blue Ray and heading for the skiff that was waiting for her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cecile Rembert stood on the deck of the Argonaut, watching as the crew unloaded food stuffs under the eye of the cook's assistant, Mr. Kensington. She had been told to lend a hand, and was now tallying each item as it came on board.

"Oy, mates!" Mr. Kensington shouted at the men on deck, "Mind yew lot bring that pilsner on board gentle-like. Cap'n Skinner don't like flat beer."

At that point, all activity ceased. The man laughing at his own joke, noticed too late that work had stopped. He glanced around and quickly dropped his hands to his sides as the Argonaut's crew glared at him. Mr. Harding, a dingy bowman who had served with the Argonaut since before Erin became Captain said in a low rumble, "Yew want a berth on this boat, laddie, yew'll soon learn we brook no insult to our Cap'n."

At that point, all activity ceased. The man laughed at his own joke, then noticed work had stopped. He glanced around and quickly dropped his hands to his sides as the Argonaut's crew glared at him. Mr. Harding, a dingy bowman who had served with the Argonaut since before Erin became Captain said in a low rumble, "Yew want a berth on this boat, laddie, yew'll soon learn we brook no insult to our Cap'n."

The man stuttered, "I…I meant no 'arm. I seen 'er meself at the Blue Ray. I mean, she's one o' them what loikes women her own self. I's not right, that's not."

Harding's glare grew more pronounced, "And who says it's not right?"

Liking his lips nervously, the man replied, "Well, yew know…the Bible and such…."

"And wot would a thievin', whorin' bastard like yerself know about the Bible?"

Seeing that he would have no support among any of the crew, the man tried to back out, "Really, no offense, lads."

"Too late for that," Mr. Kensington spoke up. He motioned to the other crew, and they unceremoniously picked up the interloper and tossed him over the side. He emerged from the water flailing and sputtering. Mr. Harding shouted down to him, "No offense, lad. Sure 'ope yew kin swim."

The man tried to shake his fist and shout curses at the crew on deck, but all he got for this effort was a mouthful of water. The crew only laughed even louder than they already were, and the man turned and started paddling towards the not too distant shore.

The crew completed unloading supplies, and stowing them in the hold. Cecile continued to assist Mr. Kensington tally the goods, and they were finished in record time. Cecile offered to return to the galley, but Mr. Kensington stopped her, "No, lass. Cook lets few into his kitchen until serving time. Yew might think about cleaning up any place yew see a mess. I'll be helping to repair sails this evening, and you're welcome to join me then, alright?"

Cecile nodded her head in acceptance, and started back to the Captain's cabin with a thought to cleaning the stale room. Pausing to check the progress of the man thrown overboard, she could no longer see him in the water, and assumed he either made it back to shore or drowned. Not caring for the man's tone when he talked about Captain Skinner, she had no compunction about what the crew had done to him. Truth be told, what she'd learned from the man's insults, as well as from the Cook earlier in the day had intrigued her, and she began also to keep an eye out for the dingy that would carry Erin Skinner back to the ship.

When Erin left the ship that morning, Cecile had been determined to put in a full day's work in the galley. She knew her other jobs had not yet been up to snuff, and she was getting more and more anxious about getting back to Jamaica and her father. It was surprising to her, therefore, that as she worked during the day, her thoughts frequently returned to the diminutive Captain. It was as though without Erin onboard, the ship lost its vitality. It could also have been the fact that nearly two-thirds of the entire crew were on shore leave, but judging by the remaining crew's demonstrated loyalty, she knew it was Erin's presence that set the morale. As she worked in the galley, peeling potatoes and cutting onions, she could hear the crew banter and got more than an earful about Skinner's exploits and whereabouts.

About midday, the cook, a portly man named Tucker, whom every one simply called "Cook," returned to the galley with a freshly scrubbed boiling pot. "Aye, yer doin' a foin job there, Missy. Cap'n shoulda put ye here first t'ing," Cook observed.

Cecile smiled, "Thank you, Mr. Tucker. I am doing my best."

"It's just 'Cook.' No one calls me Mr. Tucker but me own wife."

Cecile was surprised, "Wife? You're married? How can you be on the ship for such long periods of time?"

"Oh, I dinna say 'happily married.' Last I saw me wife, she was t'rowing a fryin' pan at me 'ead and screaming fer me to get out o' the house."

Cecile might have been shocked, except that Cook told the story with a barely suppressed smirk, so she laughed instead.

"Wot aboutchu, darlin'? Got a 'usband back 'ome?" Cook inquired.

"Me? Oh, no. I do have some suitors, but I wouldn't give a single shilling for the whole collection of them. No, I've not found the right man, mostly because I value my freedom too much."

Cook laughed, "Oh, aye, this is freedom a'right."

Cecile blushed, "Well, my normal freedom." She thought some more about the topic, "This actually hasn't been half bad. I was lead to believe British pirates were the worst of the lot, but everyone here has behaved like a perfect gentleman, including Capt. Skinner."

"And she won't have it any other way," Cook replied. "At first, the lads all thought she was a bit daft. Goin' after slavers the way she does. But we've naught to complain about. She keeps us all well fed and clothed…and rich," Cook winked then continued, "Her rules are a bit odd fer a pirate ship, but it's the best damn vessel I've sailed on, that's fer sure."

Cecile was intrigued, and wanted to ask more about Capt. Skinner and the slavers, but another line of questioning occurred to her, "How did she…I mean, she's not very big…that is, how is it that she's Captain of such a large crew and ship?"

Cook took the peeled potatoes and onions, and placed them in the pot along with fresh water and four skinned rabbits, then hung the entire thing on a hook over a grated fire. Wiping his hands, he said, "There, that should do it. Won't need but a wee bit o' food since we've only a t'ird of the lads." Cook sat next to Cecile on a low stool and addressed her directly, "Erin Skinner is Captain of the good ship Argonaut by vote of every man aboard 'er. I served me time in 'er Majesty's navy before I deserted. Now, you might t'ink me low for such a crime, but I'll tell ye lass, 'er Majesty can keep 'er damn navy. Floggings daily, more'n one man too. Half rations. Dysentery, scurvy…it was 'orrible. Since I've been on the Argonaut, I've seen but one man flogged, and that was for the worst crime on this ship-interferin' with a woman without her say so. Like I says, Cap'n Skinner keeps us well, and she's one of the best fighters among us. Not afraid to do 'er share of the dirty work neither. And, she the smartest of the lot, bar none." Cook stood up from the small chair, stretching, "Excuse my goin' on that way, but I'm partial to our Cap'n, and I'll have no one sayin' a harsh word against 'er."

Cecile shook her head vehemently, "Oh, no, you misunderstood me. I wasn't questioning the Captain's abilities. Indeed, she seems quite able. It's only unusual for a woman to lead such a crew."

"Aye, it is that. Now, why'nt ye run along and help Mr. Kensington with the supplies? His dingy should be back from the island any time now and ye can unload the boat with the lads, then help take stock."

Cecile nodded, "I really didn't mean any offense, Cook…."

"I know ye didn't, lass. Thanks for all yer help today."

These and other stories were painting quite a favorable picture of the Captain, and Cecile was secretly pleased at this knowledge. There was some indefinable something about the Captain that made her want to know her better. Cecile had always harbored a desire not to marry, to spend her life as she saw fit. When she had once broached the subject with her father, he scoffed, and refused to even talk about it. After that, he became a near fanatic about the subject, and brought as many young men to the house as he could find. To Cecile, while Captain Skinner's life seemed harsh, it did have its benefits, and Cecile was intrigued about how exactly Erin had pulled it off. Too, there was something about the redhead that made Cecile want to spend time with her. Aside from the obvious part about Erin saving her life, for which Cecile was grateful, she found herself captivated by Erin's lively green eyes and droll sense of humor. She'd never met anyone like Erin before, and she truly wanted to know her better, even if their time together proved short.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Erin was standing on the moonlit, white sand beach anticipating the return of the Argonaut's dingy, when Jonas Willoughby staggered into view. Upon seeing his Captain, Jonas straightened visibly and attempted to walk toward her with some semblance of sobriety.

Erin laughed, "Give it up Jonas. I know you're drunk."

"I'm not…[hic]…I'm not drunk, and I resent the accusation, Cap'n."

Erin cocked her head at him, "Right then, how many fingers am I holding up?"

Jonas squinted at her, and replied triumphantly, "None, yer tryin' to trick me!"

Erin waved three fingers directly under Jonas's nose. "I know you can count better then that. Don't worry. You're a good man, Jonas. Your secret is safe with me. But don't let me catch you drunk again when it's near your time to return to the ship."

Chagrined, Jonas replied, "No Cap'n. I wouldnta been drunk this time if it t'weren't for a wee bet."

Erin smiled, "Did you at least win your bet?"

"Oh, aye. You should see Mr. Morgan, he's under the ta…ble…uh…."

Erin tried unsuccessfully to keep from barking out a laugh, "You mean both my First and Second Mates have drunk themselves stupid?" Jonas turned a bright red that was not visible in the pale moonlight. Erin's eyes suddenly widened, "Wait. How is it that all three of us are on dry land at the same time?"

A sobering thought for Jonas, "I don' know Cap'n. Truly, I've only been on the island 4 hours. Dinna even take me full shift."

"Tell you what," Erin said, "think you can make it up to the deck on your own once the boat gets there?" Jonas nodded. "Good man. I'll go back to The Ray and get Mr. Morgan sobered up as much as possible. It's likely no one even noticed we'd all gone, not that it really matters, but I don't want the lads to think their leaders have deserted them."

Jonas nodded, the action nearly pitching him forward on the beach. Erin trekked back the way she had come and in a few minutes was standing back in front of The Blue Ray. "Bloody hell," she whispered to herself, "What will these lads do next." She entered the now crowded and dimly lit bar searching for her First Mate. She found him propped in a corner of the room, snoring almost loud enough to be heard over the din. Satisfied he wasn't going anywhere, she walked back to the bar and ordered the house rum. Fermented from coconuts, this liquor was known as the worst swill on the island, and something Will was known to be quite a snob about. Erin navigated the room, spilling as little of the drink as possible as she was jostled on the crowded floor. She made it back across the room, and stood directly in front of Will lest she miss her intended target. With a quick flip of her wrist, she threw the drink in Will's face, with most of it going up his nose. Will sputtered to life, his hand automatically going for his sword, while Erin joined the rest of the room laughing uproariously.

Through bleary eyes, Will could vaguely make out his Captain bent over double in laughter. "Oh, aye, kick a man while he's down why dontcha."

Erin, still laughing said, "Oh you poor boyo. And I suppose these lads forced the liquor down your gullet?"

"No, I take full responsibility for that Cap'n Skinner, but I don't appreciate yew hittin' me in the face w' this…," Will experimentally tasted the rum's remnants on his lips, "…this rot gut."

"Well," said Erin, "I knew if I bought the good stuff, it would go to waste. Besides, that'll teach you to try to out drink Jonas."

Will sheepishly said, "Oh, yew saw him didya?

Yes, he stumbled into my path down on the beach. Tsk. Will you're getting a might old for this non-sense, aren't ya?"

Will scowled, "Jonas' is older 'n me, and still can drink more'n I can…can."

Erin replied, "And he has been able to since I've known both of you. When are you ever going to learn?"

"Guess I was hopin' the older he got, the more chance I stood. No such luck." Will then tried to get up on his own, only to fall back onto the bench. "Are you going to stand there gawking, Cap'n Skinner, or will ye be helpin' me up then?"

"I should let you rot here, Will, but good First Mates are hard to find. Come on, up ya go." Erin pulled Will's extended hand and he came heavily to his feet. They both staggered under his weight. "Whoa, there, lad. Stead as she goes. Are you alright?"

Will, who had suddenly turned a shade of green normally seen on trees shook his head no, and bolted as fast as his drunken legs would carry him. Amused, Erin strolled out behind him, wishing her crew a good time and admonished, "I'd better not catch a one of you repeating Mr. Morgan's evening performance. I can't have my entire crew blasted, now can I?" The crew laughed at Erin's remarks, and although many took the words as a joke, more than a few slowed down on their imbibing.

Erin walked outside, but Will was no where in sight. Faintly, she heard the sounds of retching and followed the noise until she found Will in the trees just beyond the bar, throwing up into what had once been a beautiful flowering bush.

"Hey! I picked those earlier for Delia, and I resent you tossing your load on them!" Erin teased.

A very whoosy Will replied, "I'll get her some other flowers, these are taken just now."

Erin waited a few minutes while Will lost what was left of his supper, before she said "Feel good enough to make it back to the ship?"

Will nodded affirmatively, then put his hand over his mouth, and turned back to the flower bush to have another round. Erin, now showing real concern for her friend's health said, "Boyo, you sure you don't want to go back to the Ray? I can make an exception to the 12 hour rule if you're really sick."

"No ma'am," he replied as he shakily got to his feet and started on his own down the path to the beach, "it's all me fault and I'll take me punishment like I should. Heaven help me if I make it back to the Argonaut in one piece. At least I won't be quite sa drunk since I've lost most of wot I drank back there."

They managed to make it to the beach without any further incident, neither speaking a word on their way. Theirs was a relationship that required few verbal exchanges. They knew each other as intimately as two people could without being family. Indeed, each thought of the other as a sibling, although neither had ever expressed these feelings to the other. While fighting individually, each was outstanding and difficult to best. If fighting together, they were powerful and unstoppable. It was one of the things that made them an excellent balance in the leadership of the Argonaut.

"Say, William…" Erin queried.

Will knew he was in trouble when Erin addressed him by his full name. With an almost audible sigh, he replied, "Wot is it, Erin?"

"Why on earth were you trying to drink Jonas under the table anyway? Seems I recall someone had a rather urgent appointment with a curvaceous redhead?"

Will, looking quite chagrinned, replied "Um….well, she…that is, we…"

Erin stopped on the path with her hands on her hips, "Do not tell me you've managed to piss her off again so quickly?? Will Morgan, you ought to be ashamed."

Will silently working against tears that threatened to fall, stammered, "Uh, no Erin, I dinna piss her off. She…that is, she already had a guest when I arrived."

Erin was stunned. "Oh Will. I am sorry." While both Erin and Will were quite well aware that the women they bedded made their living on their backs, both Delia and Gisele made it a practice to be available for their favorites whenever the Argonaut dropped anchor. Gisele was sending a clear message she no longer desired Will's company or his attentions. "Did she say why, Will?"

Will shuffled a bit, "She said she still loves me, but can't waste her time waitin' fer me. She needs to know someone will come along to take care of her. I can't say's I blame her. I don't even know if I'll live from one day to the next, let alone come back and care for her and be wot she needs."

Erin nodded, but said nothing further since they were now on the beach, and the dingy was fast approaching. She knew all too well the limitations that she and each of her crewmembers had placed upon themselves when they became pirates. One of those limitations was the ability to form any lasting relationships outside the crew itself. They both rode back in the dingy, the only sound the soft slapping of oars on the water, each lost in their private thoughts. Once back aboard, Erin helped Will to the quarters he shared with Jonas. They entered, and while Jonas' back was to the door, the snoring sounds he made were not muffled in the least.

"Fer crissake," Will complained, "How'm I supposed to sleep through that God awful noise?"

Erin lead Will to his bunk, sat him down, and helped him off with his boots, "I'm quite sure you'll manage, boyo. Regardless of the damage you did to that flower bush, you're still three sheets to the wind."

Will laid back on his bunk. "Hey, Cap'n, kin yew stop the boat rockin' so much?"

Erin laughed softly, "We're in perfectly calm waters, old man. 'Fraid it's just the rum that's got you so dizzy."

Will did no more than grunt in reply before his mouth lulled open, and his own snoring sounds joined in chorus with Jonas'. Erin left them to their own devices, but let the night watch know to check on them once or twice in case they got sick again. Erin retired to her own dark quarters, not even needing to light a lamp to see her way. She carefully picked her way across the floor, careful not to step on Cecile, who had been sleeping on a pallet during her stay. For her part, Cecile was unsure whether to let the Captain know she was awake. She could hear Erin remove her boots and could just make out the Captain's outline against the light coming through the window. Erin removed her pants, but left her shirt on. She fell back heavily onto her bunk and spent several minutes trying to get comfortable. Letting out a frustrated breath, she swung her legs over the side of the bunk and put her head in her hands while resting her elbows on her knees. She sat that way for several long minutes. The only sound Cecile could hear was Erin's faint breathing. On such a calm night, not even the usual ocean sounds could be heard.

Erin was snapped out of her reverie when Cecile cleared her throat and whispered, "I'm awake, Captain Skinner…if you wish to turn on a lamp or something."

Erin got up, walked to her maps table, and unerringly found matches to light the hurricane lamp on her desk. She turned to see Cecile propped up on one elbow, squinting at the light. "Sorry if I woke you, Miss Rembert."

"You didn't wake me. I had some trouble falling asleep, and you came in before I'd dozed off. I could hear you tossing and turning, and thought you might want to read, or…well, at least use your cabin as you see fit," Cecile finished lamely.

Erin looked at Cecile speculatively a moment before replying, "Yes, thank you Cecile, I would like to read. I…." Erin trailed off as she glanced around what had once been her dirty cabin. All of her maps had been stowed into their respective slots along the wall, her books placed on the shelf, her compass and all her other tools placed in a box or hung on the pegs by the door. The floor had been swept and she realized with a start that her linens had smelled fresh when she lay down. It wasn't that Erin was terribly sloppy, she just had very little time for much beyond Captaining her ship. She turned a questioning eye back to Cecile, who actually blushed. "I had some time today, you see," Cecile started to explain, "between loading cargo and serving dinner. And I thought you might like your cabin cleaned. I didn't look at any of your private maps or papers if that's what you're worried about."

Erin softened her glare a bit, "I've nothing in this cabin you wouldn't be welcome to look at. And, since you're actually staying in my room, it's not like you invaded what little privacy I have." Erin had said this last almost wistfully, and Cecile wondered about the forlorn mood that Erin seemed to be in. She got up from where she was reclining, and retrieved Erin's current book from the shelf.

"This was the book on your bed when I came in. Is this what you're reading now?" Cecile questioned.

Erin took the proffered book from Cecile's hand and glanced at the cover. Seeing that it was indeed Oroonko, she looked up to say thank you. Erin found herself caught by the brightness of Cecile's eyes. She had known they were an attractive shade of blue, but the sleepy iridescence caught her by surprise. Erin came to fully realize that Cecile Rembert was quite a fetching woman, and that if she didn't break their gaze soon, she might do something she would regret. What exactly that was, Erin wasn't sure, but she did briefly have visions of running her hands through Cecile's dark hair and kissing the soft pulse below her jaw.

Erin shook her head slightly, no, this was a reverie she could ill afford. She looked away, but not before she saw Cecile blush and drop her eyes to her fidgeting hands. "Um," Erin stammered, "since you're awake, can I interest you in a book from my shelves? Or shall I read to you?"

Erin had by the end of her statement moved back to her bunk and sat on its edge. Cecile turned to face Erin, then sat in the chair at the desk, "I would like it very much to hear you read."

Displaying her usual humor, Erin teased, "Say, weren't you working all day today while I was gone? Shouldn't you be sound asleep and snoring by now?"

Indignantly, Cecile replied, "I do not snore." She then saw that Erin had her customary smirk in place and was in fact teasing her. "You know, it's a shame you get my goat so easily. I fall for that stern look every time."

Erin laughed aloud, "Don't worry, Miss Rembert. Mr. Morgan has known me for years and he still falls for it." Erin turned a few pages in the book, then said, "I've read much of this already, but since you haven't, I'll start at the beginning."

Cecile protested as she moved to her pallet on the floor, "Oh, no, Captain. Anyplace is fine. I so rarely get the pleasure anymore that any reading is alright with me."

"No, really, the pleasure is mine. I often reread the things I have here since I get so few books. I don't mind." Erin opened the book and started reading from the beginning.

I do not pretend, in giving you the history of this Royal Slave, to entertain my reader with adventures of a feigned hero, whose life and fortunes fancy may manage at the poet's pleasure; nor in relating the truth, design to adorn it with any accidents but such as arrived in earnest to him: and it shall come simply into the world, recommended by its own proper merits and natural intrigues; there being enough of reality to support it, and to render it diverting, without the addition of invention."

Erin continued to read from the book for another quarter hour, enjoying again the story of Oroonoko. This story was quite different from many she had ever read. While she doubted that the author, an Englishwoman named Aphra Behn, had first hand knowledge of the story of a "royal slave," she told the story as if in fact she did. It was fantasy set in reality, and was very refreshing. Erin stopped reading when she could hear soft snores emulate from Cecile's prostrate form. She closed the book, covered Cecile with a blanket, and blew out the lamp. Thinking she would again have trouble sleeping after this afternoon's cat nap, Erin's eyes soon grew heavy and she too slept soundly.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Seeing the sunlight streaming into her port window from a position on her bunk was not a sight to which Erin was accustomed. Normally, at this point in the day, she had long been awakened by her trusty First Mate and they saw the sunrise together. Confused, she swung her legs over the edge of the bed, then she remembered why Will had likely not shown up. The motion of bolting upright so quickly brought to fore her own drink-addled brain. She didn't think she had consumed that much yesterday, but the pounding headache was telling her different. Still, if Will was not yet up, it was up to her to roust him out of bed. In fact, she thought evilly, I'll see what trouble Jonas is in as well.

Erin pulled her boots on, tied on her scabbard, doused her face in water from the wash basin, and brushed her hair before venturing out onto the deck. The day was dawning clear and cloudless. The sea continued so calm that even the seasoned Captain had trouble distinguishing the sky from the horizon. Taking a deep cleansing breath, Erin wandered over to the galley to scrounge up some breakfast and tea. While her head was certainly pounding, her stomach was never shy about demanding a full meal. She came into the galley to find Cecile busy over the cooking fire.

"Well, I'm glad to see you've found your niche, Miss Rembert," Erin said appreciatively.

Standing up from her stooped position, Erin could see rivers of sweat pouring from Cecile's face, and circles of sweat under each arm. Still, Cecile was smiling when she said, "Indeed I have, Captain Skinner. Who knew I could cook?"

Erin laughed and said, "Well, that remains to be seen, now doesn't it?"

Cecile harrumphed and said, "Do you think your Cook would leave just anyone alone in the galley? Why, Mr. Kensington isn't even afforded that privilege. Now, name your poison…"

Erin eyed the porridge simmering over the fire. "I'll take a spot of that with honey, and a cup of the blackest tea you've got."

"Coming right up," Cecile fetched a bowl.

"I'll be right back, Miss Rembert. I've a certain First Mate to harass this morning."

Cecile only nodded, hoping the Captain would take it easy on Will. She'd seen him earlier this morning his head hung over the rail of the quarterdeck, tossing both the contents of his stomach and any remaining dignity into the sea. She didn't know what the penalty was on this ship for drinking on the job, but reckoned even the First Mate wouldn't escape his Captain's wrath. Erin found Will still on the quarterdeck, legs spread out in front of him, back against the rail, snoring. She kicked his boot, and he snorted once before waking.

"Huh….wha…," Will stood immediately once he saw Erin, "Beggin' yer pardon….ehhhhhhh…." He turned to throw up again over the rail.

Erin slapped him on the back, "I haven't the heart to give you the lashing you deserve this morning, Will. We'll tell the crew you've a touch of bad food. But, what the bloody hell were you thinkin' last night??"

Sheepishly, while wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, "I weren't thinkin'. Tha's the problem. Won't happen again, Cap'n"

Erin squinted up at him, "I am sorry about Gisele." Will nodded glumly, but didn't respond. "Come on, lad, let's get some breakfast." Will only groaned in response, but Erin insisted, "You've got to get some food in you, and I'm famished."

They both entered the galley where Cecile had set up two bowls of porridge and two cups of tea. Both sat at the same time and began eating, although Will ate considerably slower then Erin who tore into the cereal with gusto.

Cecile cleared her throat, "Uh, Captain Skinner, before you drink your tea…I've uh, taken the liberty of adding a few things to it. Might not taste good, but it will cut the hair of that dog that has your throat."

Erin raised an eyebrow, "And what makes you think I need such a restorative?"

Cecile smiled, "I know what rum and wine smell like, Captain. You put up a good front, but I knew you'd had a bit yourself last night." Will laughed as loudly as his head would permit. "And you," Cecile turned her attention to the first mate, "did you manage to save any rum for the other lads, or did you drink every drop on the island." Erin guffawed at Will, who was no longer laughing, and took a sip of her tea, which she promptly spit out.

"Are you trying to kill me woman?? When you said name your poison, I didn't think you meant literally!" Erin spewed and wiped her mouth out with the end of her scabbard.

Cecile did her best not to laugh, but a devious smile did break across her face briefly, "Captain Skinner, that tea is made from dried flirtwort, sage, rosemary, and lemon, and while it does not taste good, it will cure your headache. So you can drink it or not. But if you want to be miserable all day, that's not my problem."

Normally, Will would have mercilessly teased Erin about getting a verbal thrashing at the hands of their new servant, but thought better of it. His stomach and his head simply couldn't allow him to manage more than a few grunts. He had to admit that the tea was indeed wretched, but a bowl of porridge and two cups of the dreadful stuff later he was feeling at least passable. He rose from the table and spoke to Cecile, "Thank ye, Miss. The tea was swill, but it has helped me head. Think I might just live."

Cecile responded in kind, "You're quite welcome, Mr. Morgan. You might also try pinching the skin between your thumb and first finger if your headache gets the best of you today." Cecile demonstrated the technique on her own hand.

Will raised an eyebrow, but didn't question the remedy; the tea had worked all too well. He exited the galley to take up his customary duties, leaving Erin and Cecile alone. Erin picked up her bowl and Will's, thinking she'd lend Cecile a hand.

"I'll do that, Captain Skinner," Cecile said, taking the bowls from Erin's hands. "Gotta earn my keep you know."

Erin sat back down to finish her tea as well. She too was feeling much better, even if the taste in her mouth was sour. She cleared her throat, wanting to talk, but finding herself tongue-tied in this Cecile's presence. Not stopping to think how unusual this condition was for her, Erin gamely forged ahead in the conversation while Cecile continued to cook and clean. "Well, Miss Rembert, you are a miracle worker."

"Indeed, Captain Skinner? In what way?"

Erin smiled, "You've cured Will's hangover. One I think might have just had him laid out for the rest of the day. And you've gotten me to drink this rotten concoction when I swore it wouldn't pass my lips again after that first sip."

Cecile turned to see a grinning Captain Skinner, and was brought up short by the genuine mirth she could see in Erin's face. Well,, she thought to herself, when she smiles….she's breathtaking. Cecile was surprised to find such thoughts about the Captain forming. She started to chalk it up to yesterday's lessons about what kind of Captain Erin was, but realized she found Erin attractive long before she had a more complete picture of the woman.

For Erin, once again time seemed to stand still when Cecile turned to look at her. She could see in detail the sweat trickling down Cecile's neck, and she longed to run her lips over the spot, absorbing and tasting. Trying to halt this train of thought, Erin looked quickly to the contents of her cup, "Um, can I have some more tea?"

Cecile noticed that the Captain had quite suddenly blushed, but opted not to comment. Regardless of her good-natured teasing earlier, she was still unsure where she stood with the Erin and did not want to get any further on her bad side. "Truth be told, Captain Skinner, I wouldn't have more than 2 cups of that stuff. It's great for the head, but hell on the stomach."

Erin surreptitiously watched Cecile as she returned to her work. "How is it that you know so much about these cures, Miss Rembert?"

Cecile thought a moment about lying. It was a habit so ingrained when it came to this topic. But part of her growing fondness for Erin also included a growing closeness, and she didn't want to ruin their budding relationship with lies. She continued to work, her back to Erin, while she responded, "My father…he, um, drinks. A lot. It's usually me that puts him to sleep. I learned the cure from a woman who worked for us for a while. It usually helps him, although some days he can't manage to get up enough to drink it." Cecile turned to face Erin, to see if she would find any mocking or derision. Of course, she found nothing but concern etched on Erin's features. Cecile smiled bitterly before continuing, "So, you see, while my father created a marvelous plantation, these days he can barely manage to ride over the grounds more than twice a week. I run it for him now. Which is also why I'm so concerned with getting back. Not only to make sure he's safe, but to attend to our affairs."

Seeing Cecile's obvious discomfort, Erin only nodded in response. The Captain then got up to leave the galley, and was half out of the door before she turned and ducked back into the room, "Miss Rembert?" Cecile turned to the Captain, a questioning look on her face. "You know I can't…I cannot break the rules for any member of this crew, myself included."

Confused, Cecile replied yes, she knew that. Erin continued, "I am not, however, heartless. As soon as we've finished our stay here, we'll chart a course for Jamaica and you'll work off the remainder of your debt while we're docked there.

Cecile, overjoyed at this news, forgot herself so much as to launch herself into Erin's surprised arms. They hugged for brief moments, before Cecile realized what she'd done, and she quickly stepped back. Tears in her eyes, Cecile spoke up, "Thank you, Captain Skinner. Thank you ever so much. I don't know how I'll repay your kindness."

Flustered, Erin replied, "There's no need to repay anything but the debt. I cannot leave now. The men need the rest too much. But we'll leave within a fortnight."

Cecile nodded, "I understand. Thank you again."

Erin nodded acknowledging the thanks, and exited to find Will and tell him the new plan.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Continued in Part III, Letter of the Discovery