Marie Kelly's Blog, page 6

Pirate’s Revenge (Pt 25)

Chapter Twenty Five

The return trip took hardly a day, Alex having to hold back the laugh at knowing his earlier assessment of the situation had been correct.  They had sailed in circles for days when meeting up with Condor.  This time, he was not permitted to help on deck, Captain O’Conner creating some pretext of his having to read up on the rules of the fleet.  Alex knew that he could easily have done this on his own ship and that the other man just wanted to keep him away from his crew.

In his quarters, he mulled over the meeting.  There had always been a chance that Condor would run him through, although, given he had never hidden his identity, and Condor would have done his research, this was always a slim chance.  With firm lips, he frowned.  Admiral Blane, now Captain Condor, had been both revered and feared in the navy.  The man was an excellent strategist, and his defection to the pirates had both confused and terrified the admiralty.  He was dangerous, and he knew far too much of the working of the fleet.  Investigators had managed to uncover a secret affair he was having with a Spanish spy – that and proof of his having suddenly come into a great deal of money.  All evidence pointed to Admiral Blane having sold out to the Spanish, and both Britain and Spain, while not technically at war with each other, still held an uneasy truce, Alex knowing that all it would take would be one violent action to reignite the flames of war.

Sighing, his thoughts once more flew to Elizabeth.  This woman, Carlota Santiago, had taken a respected admiral and turned him into a traitor, a smile curving his mouth.  She and Elizabeth were so very different.  One a temptress filled with deceit and ulterior motives, and Elizabeth, his wife, full of innocence and loyalty.  For a second he almost felt sorry for Condor.  Meeting the right woman could make or break even the best of men.

Early the next morning, O’Conner’s ship reached the position of his own.  With a frosty farewell, the other captain watched Alex once more being rowed out to his own ship, his eyes full of wariness.  His second, however, seemed cheerful, sharing jokes as they once more returned, rowing quickly out to the familiar hull.

Reaching within shouting distance, a lone voice could be heard, “Halt, identify yourself”, frowning as he looked at Alex.  “Are your men blind?”, he asked in a voice full of laughter.  Shaking his head, Alex chuckled before standing, “No.  Just following orders”, before turning to his ship, his voice sure, “Fly for freedom”, he cried, his voice carrying clearly on the still waters.

Immediately, a boat was dropped, two of his men striking out to meet them.  Turning once more to Jenkins, he laughed, “Seems I won’t have to swim this time”, winking good humouredly, before shaking the hands of both the longboat crew.

Soon he was once more on board his own ship, the other longboat almost having reached its own.  Smithers had remained tight lipped before the others, although Alex could see a million questions in his eyes, his solemn look conveying more to his own second than any words.

Moving to a commanding position he faced his crew.  “Men.  We have little choice other than to join Condor’s fleet.  He has assured me that doing so will reap great rewards for every man here, and that by doing so, we will have greater protection”

Below him, he could see the indecision on his crew’s faces, the sound of hushed voices all whispering frantically at the same time.  Finally one stepped forward, his ugly features full of concern, his eyes darting around his crewmates, “Captain, you know that me and the boys would follow you to hell and back”, his fingers pulling nervously at his hat, which was held in his hands, “But is this really the best thing to do?  We can disappear as one ship, as part of a fleet we will be easy targets.”

Smiling softly, Alex nodded.  “I understand your concerns.  However, it was made clear to me that we either join or are destroyed.”  Before him the men nodded, Alex seeing that they had all realised that they were in a bad position.  From the moment Condor had contacted them, his crew had known that it was not so much a request as an ultimatum.  All had heard rumours of other ships having refused and been destroyed, the inevitability of their position not lost on a single man.

Leaning forward, his mouth curved into a large smile “That does not mean to say boys that things might not change.  Be assured that I will continue to watch what happens.  If I feel we are better elsewhere, then I will not hesitate to do what is right.”

The men once more broke into muffled noise, before silence again descended on the group, all grim-faced, but watching their captain with respect.  Every man knew that Alex was smart and wily.  If any man could save them from the position they found themselves, it was him, Alex surprised in the belief they had in him.  Perhaps his plan would work after all.

Pulling himself up to his full height, he barked out orders.  He had been given coordinates to meet up with the rest of the fleet, his men running in different directions to follow his instructions.  Turning to his second, he gestured for him to join him.  There were many plans to make, and little time to make them.

Two weeks later Alex squinted into the dropping sun, his concentration fixed on the other ships around him.  It had taken a week to reach the rendezvous point, he surprised to find the pirate fleet anchored around a small group of islands.  For the next week, the ships had spent each and every day practicing a series of manoeuvers, Alex quickly realising that they were practicing for an invasion, most likely an attack on a port.  His mouth had tightened.  Such a target would consist of many civilians, men women and children, realising that his greatest fear had been correct.  Watching the way Condor had seemed to lay down heavy cannon fire, he knew that the death toll would be significant.  Such an attack would be seen as an excuse for war.

His ship had performed in an exemplary fashion, Alex’s men trained well by him.  Quickly Condor had begun to lean on him to help whip the rest into shape.  Alex, took the chance to gather more information knowing that knowledge was power.  Soon, he knew where each ship would be during the still not identified attack.  He also discovered that there were ten other ships joining them prior to the attack, this news making himee4 have to adjust his initial plan.  While he had not wanted the fleet to ever reach their destination, the knowledge that there would be ten heavily-armed warships congregating on a civilian port made him change his plans.

So it was a week after his ship had arrived – each and every day a punishing regime of practice and drill – he found himself invited to Captain Condor’s stateroom for dinner.  Condor, in a pensive mood had been silent most of the meal, Alex having to hold back his grimace at the delicious food served.  While he was a pirate, the other man had lost none of his liking for the finer things in life.

When finished, Condor had indicated that Alex should join him for brandy and cigars.  For a few moments the two men had sat, deep in their own thoughts, only the light from the fire illuminating the two.  As the shadows danced around the small room, Alex struggled to hold back his smile.

“Want to share?”  The soft question brought Alex’s eyes round to meet the inquiring look of the other man, his mouth shaping into a large grin,  “I always liked after-dinner drinks”, he mused softly, the other man’s flinty look softening as he too smiled.  “Yes.  We might find ourselves in an uncivilised world Captain Hunter, but it does not mean that we ourselves have to become uncivilised.  I find that keeping with some traditions can be most…comforting.”

Lifting his glass in salute Alex offered, “To comfort”, Captain Condor huffing out a genuine laugh.

“I like you Hunter.  You are a man who can do well if you stick with me”, his joviality disappearing as his look became more serious “We are leaving in the morning.  The attack will take place tomorrow.”  His expression was now one of solemn concentration.  “The target may not sit well with some.  I need to know if we are faced with any ships which might choose to flee, or worse warn them”, his eyes locked with Alex’s.  “You and I are warriors Hunter.  We know that the sometimes you have to make sacrifices for the greater good.”

Grimacing, Alex nodded, his tone gentle, “Yes.  Although I am not a man who does well without context Captain.  I know that you are targeting a port.  I know that there is going to be loss of life…most likely civilian, unless we are hitting a military target”, his finger rising to rub his lip thoughtfully, as he worked through his thought process.  “Although, I doubt this.  That would be a suicide mission.  We have only twenty ships,  the closest military base has over forty, and to travel in such a large group further afield would invite unwanted scrutiny.”

Captain Condor released a small chuckle.  “This is why I like you Hunter.  You think things through”, before his tone once more became serious.  “Yes.  It is a civilian port.  And know that I do not gain any satisfaction in knowing that there will be heavy losses, but believe me when I tell you that the resulting fallout of our attack will make the region more secure in the long run for everybody.”

{next installment 8th April}

 

 

 

Pirate’s Revenge (Pt 24)

Chapter Twenty-four

All eyes turned once more on Alex, Captain Condor staring back at him expectantly.  “Well Hunter? What are YOU doing here?”

Alex gave a small huffed laugh.  “Believe it or not, I also had shall we say a little ‘falling out’ with the powers that be”, the last words almost spat out, the contempt within them clear.

Signalling the men who still held him to release him, Captain Condor’s tone became softer, although Alex could see the way he watched him, his disbelief clear in his dark eyes.  Moving back behind his desk, he motioned for the other two men to sit also, Captain O’Conner’s look flicking between the other two men.  However, wordlessly both obeyed, Condor’s eyes focussed solely on Alex.  “OK Hunter, why don’t you tell me what happened?”

Taking a deep breath Alex inclined his head in agreement before sitting back in the seat, his stance comfortable and supremely in control.  “Five years ago my ship was sent to the China Seas.  There was word of some rebellion.  The admiral in charge was Admiral South”, his mouth hardening in an angry line as he added, “Probably a friend of yours”, vehemence momentarily lighting his eyes.

Captain Condor huffed out another laugh, “Hardly, South was a self-righteous bastard.  No friend of mine.”

Continuing, Alex frowned down at his hands, clear that the memories were not good ones.  “It turned out the ‘rebellion’ was nothing more than a local dispute between hungry farmers and the local land owner.  He wanted us to use military might to quell the uprising and Smith wanted the land owner’s support.”

Lifting his head to stare solemnly at Condor his contempt was evident in his handsome features.  “I was ordered to open fire on the locals, but refused, instead offering support to them.  They were unarmed men, women and children.  They were innocents.”  Sighing loudly, he lifted his hands in a gesture of resignation, “The landowner was killed and Admiral Smith was furious.  Of course he couldn’t have me brought home for trial.  Civilians protected by navy – not exactly the kind of terms for court martial.  So Smith…”, the name spat out with disgust, “attacked my ship – sank her.”

This time the raw hurt was evident along with the anger, his eyes colliding with O’Conner’s.  “I had a crew of fifty men and he punished all of them.  He watched my ship go down, offering no help to those survivors.”  Taking another steadying breath he heard the expletive from O’Conner, turning his head to  see the shock from the hardened pirate.  “Three of us were washed ashore – the only survivors.  The locals hid us, let the rest of the fleet believe that we were also dead.”

Turning, his eyes met Condor’s, hatred glowing deep in their depths.  “So I was officially dead to the navy and made to spend the next three years of my life working the land like a common farmer.  When a pirate ship was blown off course I joined up, and when the captain died – at my hands”, a small smile finally quirking his lips, “Then I took over – and the rest you most probably know.”

Across from him, Captain Condor steepled his fingers, pondering his words, his voice gentling slightly, “Like I said – Smith is a bastard”, his mouth flattening as he seemed to be struggling with Alex’s story.  “Although I have to say I would not have thought him capable of that kind of duplicity.  He struck me as a more manipulative man.”

Alex nodded, “He is, but when the land owner died he supported troops putting his young son in power.  While it will take years for him to actually be in a position to control his own land, it means that Smith can manage the area.  The last thing he wanted was any stories to leak out about how badly the civilians were being treated.”  Snarling, Alex turned.  “What made it worse was that his actions were sanctioned by the king.”  A note of finality in his tone, “I am done with the navy.  It seems all the rhetoric about protecting and serving is exactly that – just words.  So I decided that from now on I was going to help myself.”

Captain Condor’s features broke into a broad smile.  “I had heard a similar story, how the great Captain Hunter was no more”, his loud laugh full of humour, “However, you might be surprised or maybe delighted to learn that your death and those of your shipmates was reported as heroic – in the line of duty”, Condor laughing again, “And Smith must also have changed his story because now he insists that his continued presence there is to ensure the protection of the locals.  He conveniently does not mention the military importance of the location.”

Sitting back, his fingers tapped his mouth thoughtfully, “To be honest Hunter, I believed you a spy.  I thought to have you silenced, but now I am not so sure.”

Alex remained still, silent.  He had said his piece, his future now in the hands of the man watching him so intently.

“Why did you not change your name?”

The question from the man behind the desk caused Alex to frown, his shoulders lifting in a shrug, “I suppose part of me wanted them to know I was still alive.  Let them know that everything I did was on them.  That every ship plundered, every man killed was ultimately their doing.  Also I suppose part of me hoped that Smith himself might come after me.  My crew are well trained and this time I would not be caught off-guard”, determination and bitterness in his voice.

Captain Condor’s eyes narrowed with interest, “So the thought of engaging with those you used to serve with does not worry you?”

Alex huffed out a bitter laugh, no humour in his features, “When Smith’s ship attacked mine, there were three others who could have come to our defence, who could have saved my men – their fellow navy friends, but they did nothing.  They stayed back and left us to our fates.  So no.  I do not consider the navy any ‘friends’ of mine.”

For several more moments Captain Condor regarded Alex, his eyes still narrowed in thought, his fingers drumming against the desk.  Alex sat stiffly, his features hard, nothing more to be said.  He knew the next few moments would seal his fate, a strange calm descending on him.  The decision of what to do with him, and most likely his crew rested with Condor, and he knew it.  There was nothing more to be said.

Finally with a creak from his chair Captain Condor sat back, his features relaxing into a large grin before he began to chuckle, Alex frowning slightly.  “What’s so funny?”, he asked gruffly, his mouth suddenly dry.

“Your story matches what I was able to glean from friends still loyal to me in the admiralty”, the captain once more standing.  Moving around his desk, he stood between the two captains, his stance now more open.  Alex realised that the guards, who had stood behind him during his conversation had backed away, the tension in the room obviously relaxing as Captain Condor held his hand out, Alex taking it with obvious wariness.  “I could hardly believe what they did to you Hunter.  Smith was a fool, and I consider his error my gain.  Welcome to the fleet.”

“Perhaps somebody would bloody well explain to ME what is going on.”  The roar from Captain O’Conner once more saw Captain Condor’s features harden, his eyes growing icy, his words bitten out, his tone lowered menacingly.  Alex held back a smile, recognising the authoritative arrogant tone of a naval commander – and they did not come much higher than Admiral Blane, or Condor as he was now known.

The effect on O’Conner however, was instant, the other man shrivelling back slightly his voice lowering to a more respectful volume, as though he realised he had gone too far, his eyes flicking between Condor and Alex.  “I don’t understand.  Both of you are navy?  Is this some kind of trap?”

Condor fixed the man with a ferocious stare, the large man snapping his mouth shut as Captain Condor gave a sigh, his voice full of irritation.

“A trap?  Why would I go to all the trouble I have to bring this fleet together to spring a trap?” His men laughed, O’Conner’s brow furrowing with anger at being laughed at.  “Well it damn well seems strange that you are navy and so is he”, his eyes full of malevolence landing on Alex.  “Fine…not a trap.  But you cannot possibly be prepared to trust this man.”

Alex growled at the other captain, moving closer to him, his body language promising violence at his words,  “And you think I should trust you?”, his eyes briefly turning to Condor, “Or you?  Perhaps I am the one to have been pulled into a trap?”  O’Conner snorted as he moved closer to Alex, he too seeming to be ready for a fight.  However, the tip of a sword moved between the men, Captain Condor’s voice filling the cabin.  “ENOUGH! Both of you will stand down, or I will have you both run through.”  Instantly Alex stepped back, obeying the man before him, O’Conner making to move forward before the two guards stepped forward, even the brutal pirate knowing he was outnumbered,  throwing himself back into his chair, frustration clear in his features.

Captain Condor looked at Alex with approval.  “You might not consider yourself in the navy anymore Hunter, but you have the kind of leadership skills and ability to follow orders that this fleet needs”, his look turning to O’Conner.  “My decision is final.  Hunter is in”, his eyes sliding over to Alex, narrowing slightly, “But I will be watching you.  The first sign of betrayal from you and I WILL have you and your ship destroyed.  Do we understand each other?”

Alex eyed him thoughtfully for a few seconds before nodding, his mouth curling up slightly, “Well at least you are honest with your intent.  I can appreciate that”, his voice once more holding a tinge of bitterness, “Unlike Smith.”

Laughing, Condor slapped him good-humouredly on the arm, “Well, as an extra incentive I will tell you this.  You might find yourself dealing with Smith again, only this time, you will be the one with the advantage”, the ex-admiral laughing seeing the light of appreciation in Alex’s eyes.

Turning, he once more faced O’Conner.  “You will return him to his ship and lead them to join the rest of the fleet”, a warning snarl in his voice, “Oh, and O’Conner.  Nothing bad had better happen to him.  If I find that any harm has come to this man because you fancy avenging yourself on an ex-navy commander be in no doubt that I will take it out on your entire crew, and I will make you watch before I deal with you personally.”

With that he seemed to have finished the meeting, returning once more to his desk, pulling a document towards himself as his men hustled the two men out.

{next installment 18th March}

Pirate’s Revenge (pt 23)

Chapter Twenty-three

The journey to meet Captain Condor took three days, Alex knowing that they were not travelling a straight line, his ability to read the position of the sun and stars a skill he had mastered and had stood him in good stead many times. When he questioned O’Conner why he was zigzagging across the ocean, his intelligent eyes full of humour, knowing only too well the answer, the other man had guffawed loudly with laughter, “You and the Captain are going to get along well Hunter. He appreciates intelligence”, he had declared.

However, it had not swayed the older captain from his course, not even Alex able to say with any confidence where they were. He was assigned a small cabin, a guard standing outside each and every night, and another within feet of him at all other times during the day. Alex cursed at their vigilance, giving him no chance to break into the captain’s ready-room and rummage through the maps and papers.

Not used to sitting idle, he insisted on being allowed to help out, O’Conner surprised that another captain would lower himself to do menial work, however relenting as Alex insisted. His determined “Every man should earn his food” words brought a smile and an approving nod to the other man’s features. He worked hard, the other men quickly coming to relax around him, their guarded tongues loosening as they would talk during their work. He was able to glean tidbits of information, much instantly useful, the rest filed away in the hope it would be useful later.

A natural leader, it was not long before even Captain O’Conner’s men were looking to him for direction, O’Conner slapping him on the back after the first day, shaking his head declaring that it was more the pity there were not more pirates like him. Needing to keep the man on side Alex had laughed back responding that with leaders like him, there were, his praise for the captain making the man puff up his chest with pride.

The second night Alex fell into his bunk, the exercise taking its toll as he had fallen into a deep sleep. He was with Elizabeth, the two walking hand in hand as she laughed, her blue eyes staring up at him with adoration. He was in his estate, dressed as the gentleman he was born to be, she like the lady she was. Happiness filled him, as the sun shone down on the couple.

The scene was most tranquil and he felt unburdened. Elizabeth turned to him, her beautiful features glowing, her gentle voice caressing him as she held his hand. “Darling. I’m having a baby, our baby”, her words swelling his heart with joy. As he moved to pull her into his arms, words of love on his lips it all changed. She was no longer there, the sunshine morphing into darkness, the smell of gunpowder and death filling his nostrils even as the screams of the dying assaulted his ears.

He was back on his ship, the rigging blasted across the deck. Running to the side he looked over, terror clenching him as he saw Elizabeth. She lay still in the water, her hair haloed around, her complexion deathly white. Her long skirts pulled at her, her body starting to sink into the cold waters. Alex screaming her name as he scrambled to leap over to save her, to lift her out of the water, to reach her or die with her if need be. But he could not move, the rigging ropes winding around him, keeping him from reaching her, keeping him on the ship.

As her eyes opened, he fought with everything in him to move, her plush lips mouthing to him ‘goodbye’ before she slid under the water, disappearing from sight. Waking with a start, he felt the cold sweat that drenched his body, his heart pounding in his chest as he shivered, still feeling the intense loss of the nightmare, the horror of losing the woman he loved. Shuddering, he lay back down, his hands scrubbing his face. The dream had been so real…so vivid, the roller-coaster of joy then loss still affecting him. He needed to see her again.

The next day, the ship dropped sails in the middle of the ocean, Captain O’Connor only giving Alex a ‘wait and see’ look when questioned why they were stopping. For several hours the ship remained still before a cry went out the captain slapping him on the back. “Show time”, his mouth curling in a large grin, Alex taking a deep breath as he stood taller – yeah, finally it was show time.

An hour later, he was being accompanied onto the new ship, Alex impressed with the size of it, also the extensive armoury it held, the double bank of guns testimony to a very different kind of ship. This was a warship; speed was not its primary goal, no this ship was built to cause as much destruction as was humanly possible. Prior to walking the plank between the ships, he had been carefully searched, the small dagger for cutting rigging he had acquired since boarding taken from him.

His eyes narrowed looking around the ship. The hands were busy, too busy. There were no pirates standing idly watching what was going on, each and every man hard at work. The fact that this ship was as orderly as his own evident in the way each man worked seamlessly with their shipmates. For the first time since taking this mission he knew that he would soon be meeting the one man he had been sent to apprehend.

Flanked by guards, both Alex and O’Conner were led down into the bowels of the ship, Alex aware of the way the brutal and usually so self-assured O’Conner seemed suddenly nervous. They were led to the end of a long dark corridor, the lead guard knocking and waiting until given a command to enter.

Moving into the large bright room, Alex blinked as the light after the murky darkness momentarily blinded him, however, finally his eyes settled on the man sat silently behind the large wooden desk, his look focussed on him. Alex registered the way his eyes narrowed on him, knowing he recognised him just as quickly as he had recognised Captain Condor.

Gasping, Alex moved backward, his elbow catching the first guard, doubling him up with the unexpected attack, his hands grabbing the man’s sword, even as his other elbow knocked out the second guard. Leaping free of the other two men, he grabbed O’Conner, holding the sword under his throat, the surprised man bellowing out in shock.

Captain Condor leapt to his feet, his arm held up to hold back the two guards descending upon Alex, their swords drawn ready for a fight. “Stand down!”, his command met with surprised looks from his men, but both obeying instantly.

Alex fixed the captain with eyes full of wariness, his mouth curving into a snarl, “What the hell is this all about? What game are you playing? Do you think I would not recognise you? I thought you were dead!”, his look moving to the guards. “This man is no pirate. He is navy, and not just any navy seaman. He is a God-damned fleet admiral!… What the hell is going on?”

In his hold O’Conner stiffened, his cries of rage stilled, “Is this true?”

Across from them Captain Condor laughed, his hands lifting to slow clap as he inclined his head, “Indeed, care to tell him how you know that Captain Hunter?”

Alex flicked his look to the guards, none of whom had even flinched at the news that their captain was not what he seemed, instead all joining in with the joke, their laughter filling the space. Only Captain O’Conner seemed oblivious to the joke, he stood as rigid as Alex.

Tight-lipped, Alex continued to hold the man, the weapon held to his throat as Captain Condor stepped behind the desk. “No? Then let me fill everybody in shall I? Seems only fitting to make some introductions”

Turning to his men he swept his arms in a grand gesture. “Gentlemen, you are in the presence of one of the kings very best… Captain Alex Hunter of the royal navy.” Again, the men did not seem fazed by this news, although the revelation did seem to shock the man he held, his words spluttered out. “What the hell is going on! Two navy commanders?”

Growling, Alex’s eyes darted around the room, taking in the large windows, the only real way out of the room. “And let’s say you do get out of them Hunter… Where would you go? You would be dining with Davy Jones before the end of the day. Put down the sword and let’s talk”, Captain Condors soft words bringing his eyes snapping back to the man he knew, the truth of his words making him sigh as he lowered his weapon, stepping back from O’Conner.

Instantly he was grabbed by the guards, each holding an arm as another plucked the sword from his hand. O’Conner stared at the two men, his eyes moving between them both. “What the hell is going on here?”, his finger pointing at Alex, “Is what he said true?.” His voice grew higher. “Are you Navy?”, his stance disbelieving as Condor nodded. “I was, yes”, his hand rising. “Relax O’Conner. As Hunter here states, I was an Admiral in the navy. Then I became disillusioned with them”, his mouth curling up in a sneer. “They tried to take me down so I had to fake my own death and flee underground… Became a pirate”, his look once more turning to Alex. “Question is, what is HE doing here?”

{next installment 4th Mar}

Pirate’s Revenge (Pt 22)

Chapter Twenty-two

The journey to the rendezvous point was arduous.  Bad weather made the trip twice as bad, Alex and his crew hardly having time for sleep, all exhausted by the time they arrived at the given coordinates.  Alex had been impressed with his crew.  The six months he spent training them had been well spent, each and every man doing his part.  If they were concerned about meeting with Captain Condor, nobody said anything, their faith in his ability to save them all humbling.  When had this cut-throat crew of individuals come together as a team?

For a day the ship lay anchored, waiting for contact.  Looking over the now-still waters, Alex understood what was happening.  Captain Condor was no fool, he would be waiting to ensure that they were alone – any tailing ship would be easy to spot.  His eyes looked keenly towards the horizon wondering where the spotting ships were placed.  In the other captain’s position, he would do the exact same, his mouth curving into a grim smile.  This was not going to be easy.

As the first day slipped into the second, he could see the nerves of his crew start to fray, the first sign of trouble when a fight broke out.  He stepped in quickly to quell the disturbance, putting the crew to work on tasks which could have been left, determined to keep them busy.  Now stood at the wheel, his lips twitched, his mother’s words swimming into his brain, “Idle hands are the devil’s tools”, his keen gaze passing over his men, truer words never spoken.

“Ship Ahoy!”  The sound of the spotter in the crow’s nest brought his attention snapping back to the present.  Pulling his spyglass from his jacket, he focussed on the area the spotter was pointing at, nothing visible yet.  After several minutes, a mast came into sight, his eyes searching for the tell-tale flag.  If it was navy they would have to cut and run, if pirate then prepare for Captain Condor.

The navy flag finally came into sight, an expletive leaving his lips as he yelled instructions to his crew.  The ship was primed and ready for sailing, Alex never allowing them to be anything other than sail ready.  He had also spent hours in his ready room ensuring that if they had to run, he knew the territory, and soon they were moving.  The ship descending on them was bigger than his, which meant that it would be less able to follow them in shallower water, Alex knowing exactly where to go.

With the precision of the well trained crew they had become, each and every man did his part and soon they were in the shallows, Alex knowing if they could reach the group of islands close by, he could lose the bigger ship in some of the larger caves he had scouted out a few days earlier.  Yes, one thing Alex Hunter was, was prepared.

“Second ship!”  The cry from the nest sent fear thudding into him, his look turning to where the spotter was now pointing.  Had it been a trap?  Had he led his crew to their doom?  Lifting the spyglass, he could barely make out the new ship.  However, it too was moving towards them.  Frantically he closed his eyes, his mind remembering the maps of the area, his mind calculating alternative courses as the spotter cried out once more, “Captain, first ship is pulling back.”

Frowning, he turned his glass to see that indeed the large ship was disappearing as it pulled back.  With set lips he looked once more at the smaller second ship fast descending upon them.

“Mr Smithers!”, his cry answered instantly by his second in command, “Turn this ship to point the guns at the oncoming ship, and make sure we are pointing at her even if she changes course.  Prepare for battle, and keep eyes on the horizon for any more ships.”

There was a frenzy of activity as the men rushed around carrying out his orders, Alex finally able to see the pirate flag of the other ship.  However, he was not prepared to accept the sign, his instincts not liking the fact that he felt they were being corralled.

Before the second ship could reach firing range, it too stopped, turning to show its guns also.  He watched as a boat was dropped and a small crew began to row their way towards them.  When they reached the ship, one of the crew stood, a smile on his face.

“Captain Hunter?” Alex stepped forward, his sword in hand. “Yes”, his affirming return cry making the pirate before him grin wider, his blackened teeth visible.  “Captain Condor would like to speak with you alone.”  Alex shook his head.  “I will not be abandoning my crew.”

From the nest the watcher cried out once more, “Captain, three more ships coming at us!”

Alex did not flinch, his mouth flattening as the pirate, easily balancing on the small rowboat laughed. “We really must insist captain.  You have our word that no harm will befall either your crew or yourself.  The ships are there solely as a precaution and for their protection also.  You will be away for a week.  You have one hour to comply and prepare your crew.  Then we will be treating you as a hostile force”, the laughter dropping from his mouth as he sneered, “And believe me captain, you do not want us as enemies.”

Pulling back, Alex strode over to Smithers, his features solemn.  “Mr Smithers.  You are in charge.  You will ensure that the crew maintain discipline and keep the ship prepared for flight.”  His second nodded, knowing better than to ask unnecessary questions.  Moving closer so that only his second could hear he shook his hand, whispering, “When I return I will give you the code ‘Fly for freedom’.   If you do not hear this you will assume that it is a trap and will take flight into the caves.  I have a list on my desk.”

His second nodded, swallowing as his voice become softer.  “Take care captain”

With a final nod to his crew, he dove into the clear water, the rowing boat moving quickly to meet with him, many rough hands pulling him out.  The pirate, obviously in charge, laughed, his head shaking as his voice filled with mirth.  “You know we would have moved closer, let you come down on a rope.”

Alex shrugged, moving to sit.  “Why wait?  Sooner we go the sooner we return”, the other pirate cocking his head as he smiled, “I like that.  A man of action.  You and Captain Condor are going to get on”, before the boat was once more rowing back to the new ship.  Alex watched his own ship as it grew smaller, trepidation sitting deep in his belly.  Would he ever see it again?  Elizabeth’s beautiful face smiling at him flitted through his mind – would he ever see her again?

Sitting up with more confidence, he resolved that he would.

Reaching the new ship he was welcomed on board.  The captain – a ferocious looking man – greeted him personally, his gruff air not taking away from the obvious intelligence in his eyes as he regarded the newcomer warily.  “Captain Hunter, my name is Captain O’Conner.  I have been given the job of taking you to meet with Captain Condor.”  As Alex turned to once more look at his ship, a smile touched the other man’s lips.  “Don’t worry captain.  Jenkins…”, his look falling to the man who had led the row boat, and who was obviously his second, “spoke the truth.  No harm will come to your crew”, his hand reaching out and grabbing Alex’s.  “In fact, we hope that your crew will become part of our fleet very soon.  Come, I have prepared a welcome for you.”

Indicating that Alex should follow him, he nodded towards his second.  “Jenkins, you know your instructions.  Get this ship moving.”  The other pirate snapped to attention, “Ay ay captain”, his only response as the two captains disappeared into the belly of the ship.

Led into the captain’s ready room, he could see that the table was laid with a feast of fish, fruit, meats and whisky.  Slapping his back, the large bulk of the captain moved to take a seat, indicating that Alex do the same, as he pulled food onto his own plate.

Cautiously sitting, Alex ensured that his sword was always reachable.  As the captain made to pour him whisky, Alex stalled him, his eyes narrowing.  “Water for me.”  The loud bellowing laugh of the captain filled the room, the older man sitting back in his chair as he too helped himself to water.  “You’re careful Hunter.  I like that.”

Frowning, Alex picked at some of the food, knowing that the ship must have recently been on land to still have most of the fruit and meat.  “Was it really necessary to run us down like that?”, his words bitten out with anger.  Across from him O’Conner huffed out another laugh.  “Condor is a careful man.  He only wants the best for the fleet.  He needs crews who can think in a crisis.  Last thing he needs is a group of undisciplined pirates unable to take commands.  The whole thing was a test.  We heard your crew were good, but we had to be sure.  You didn’t just run for open water like most would, you knew that your ship would do better in the shallows.”  His eyes flashed with mirth.  “In a situation with a larger navy ship coming for you, you didn’t panic.  You made the best call for your own survival and headed for the caves.  So… you passed.”

For a few seconds Alex pondered his words before smiling himself.  “You bastard.” The other captain laughed loudly once more as he nodded.  “Better a bastard than a rat rotting in some jail.”  Alex was unable to stop himself as he too laughed.  When their laughter died down Alex regarded him with a grin. “So…we either passed or you sent us scurrying away like dogs with our tail between our legs.”

This time O’Conner looked at him, his features cruel.  “No.  If you failed we would have sunk you”  Alex felt his insides twist at what might have been, his expression one of obvious horror as the captain laughed once more.  “Relax man.  You passed…and now you get to meet captain Condor and be part of the best damn pirate force in the world.”

{next installment 16th Jan}

Pirate’s Revenge (pt 21)

Chapter Twenty-one

Watching Elizabeth’s coach disappear had been the hardest thing Alex ever had to endure.  Despite everything he had suffered in his life – the betrayals, the beatings or even the hunger – watching her leave tore at his heart, stealing the very air from his lungs.  When had this woman become more important to him than his next breath?  He knew for sure that she was.  Without a shadow of a doubt he knew that he would die for her.

Before returning to his ship, he stopped to hire a courier to deliver a message to his estate manager, a smile hovering on his lips.  When she arrived at the Hunter estate he wanted to ensure that she would be treated as the new Lady, trusting that William would make her feel welcome.  All too soon however, he moved back onto the ship which had been his home for six months.  In that time he had turned around the cutthroat undisciplined men into a working crew that any captain could be proud of.

Retreating back to his ready room, once more he read through the parchment with the message he had hoped to receive for so long.  His lips curled bitterly.  The timing was lousy.

“Captain Hunter

Word of your exploits has reached me and you are cordially invited to meet with myself at the given co-ordinates in one week from the date you receive this letter.

I believe you will find what I have to offer most lucrative for yourself and your crew

 

Captain Condor”

His mouth tightened.  He knew the name well.  Captain Condor, a man who had eluded the Royal Navy for years.  His attacks on both ships and civilian ports notorious, his exploits now things of nightmares, stories told to children to incite fear:  ‘Do as you are told…or Captain Condor will come for you’.  He was a butcher, leaving very few survivors to bear witness to his wrongdoings.  He killed men, women and children indiscriminately, with no mercy shown.  He was also cunning and careful, nobody able to find him between his attacks.  This man was wicked to his core.

He leaned back in the high chair, his eyes closed.  It had been so tempting to leave with Elizabeth; to return to the life he had been born into.  He could have turned his back and walked away, nobody would blame him.  Nobody had to know of the letter.  Grimacing, a groan was ripped from his lips.  Yes, he would know.  Condor’s attacks had been escalating over the past year, with reports reaching authorities that he was recruiting other pirate ships, going after bigger more lucrative targets.  All of the evidence pointed to something big about to happen, something which would leave a bloody death toll.

Exhaling a deep sigh he closed his eyes.  How could he settle down and live a good life with Elizabeth knowing that he had allowed whatever was about to happen to happen?  How could he live knowing that the deaths of so many innocents could have been prevented?  The simple truth was that he could not.  It was his duty to prevent this, and he would do so even if it cost him everything.

Once more an image of Elizabeth, lying on her back, her golden hair haloed around her beautiful face as she smiled up at him flashed through his mind, the reaction in his stomach almost physical.  He missed her.  He loved her.  A smile flit across his mouth.  Perhaps he was not so bad after all, perhaps God had not forsaken him if someone as lovely as she could love him back.  Peace settled on him as he knew with 100 percent assurance that she did indeed love him.  If he was to die, then it would be knowing that he had been worthy of such a wonderful creature as Elizabeth Parker, no Elizabeth Hunter, this thought filling him with warmth.  She was his and he knew that in her name he would do what needed to be done to protect others.  She made him want to be the best person he possibly could be.

The sound of boots on the wood above heralded the arrival of the crew, along with the sound of laughter.  The stop-over had been badly needed for his men, the need to go onshore and relax clear from what had happened with Prentis.

When the man had attempted to attack Elizabeth, he had seen the look in the other men’s eyes.  Had he not taken such a hard line then more would have attempted the same.  It was rewarding to see when he had killed Prentis the way his men had accepted his ruling with no further challenge to his authority.  Previously, another would have stepped in, thinking that the victor would be tired from a fight, easily picked off.  His lips quirked; well perhaps they had taken in how easily he had dispensed with the would-be rapist.  It really had not been much of a fight.  Once more he shivered.  Thank heavens that Jim had found him in time.  If anything had happened to Lizzie he would never have forgiven himself.

By now the sound above had become hard to ignore, the men shouting greetings at each other as they exchanged stories of how they spent the money each had been given.  It had been his plan to ensure that they were kept busy, the money an incentive to stop any from returning early to the ship and ruining his marriage, and giving them all time to escape.

Now, however, they would be rested and more amenable to what had to be done next.  Lifting the letter, he frowned, his mind working.  Captain Condor was notorious, Alex knowing that all of his men would have heard of him.  It would be interesting to see how they reacted – most interesting indeed.

Moving out into the bright sunshine, the noise of the men was deafening, their spirits buoyed by good times and most likely good beer.  Silently, he made his way to the wheel, the highest part of the ship where he watched his men for a few moments.  Finally he lifted his gun firing it into the sky.

Immediately a deathly silence fell on the assembled crowd as every eye turned to him, their faces showing their surprise.  Lifting the letter high he stood rigidly, his authority as Captain unmistakable as the men waited for his words.

“I received this communication today.  It is a letter from Captain Condor.  He has expressed his admiration for this crew and has invited us to join with him.”  Pausing, he waited, his eyes scanning the men, gauging their reactions.  Finally Smithers, the man Alex had assumed would most likely step into his shoes when he disappeared with Elizabeth stepped forward.

“Captain.  It rightly is an honour”, his look flicking around the other men warily, “But…we keep ourselves to ourselves.  We don’t get too noticed.  Captain Condor… well he is trouble.  He attracts trouble.  Most of the Royal Navy is looking for ‘im.  Me and the men would follow you to Davey Jones’s locker no mistake, but perhaps it would not be so smart to join Condor.  His luck ain’t going to hold up forever and when they catch him, there will not even be any court for those with him.  It will be the hangman’s noose…if they’re lucky.”

 

Around him a chorus of agreeing voices rose up to him, his eyes taking in the bobbing heads as they nodded their approval.  Alex felt his insides soar.  This reaction was even more than he could have hoped, perhaps his plan might work after all.  Although it would still be wise to keep his plans close to his chest.

Fixing them with a fierce look he shook his head.  “Mr Smithers, I appreciate your apprehension.  However, this was not so much an invite as a demand.  Captain Condor does not take no for an answer.  We have a choice.  Either we join him…or he will find a way of destroying us.  I fear that we will need to meet with him.  Perhaps I can talk to him, have our invitation postponed until we are more battle-ready.  You have come a long way as a crew, but perhaps I can buy us more time, make him see the wisdom of your ongoing training.  With any luck it will buy us enough time for the navy to remove him as a threat to us”

Beneath him the men talked in low muffled voices before Smithers once more stepped forward, his the voice of the group.  “I think you are right captain.  Would be unwise to make Captain Condor an enemy”, a smile lighting the brutal man’s features.  “If anyone can talk ‘im around…would be you.”

Another of the crew stepped forward, his demeanour more nervous than Smithers’  “What ‘bout the prisoners Captain?”  Alex seeing the keenness in the rest of the crews’ eyes.  He had promised them riches if they kept the three prisoners and he could now see their keenness to find out what had become of them.

Smiling, he lifted his hands in a gesture of sharing, “Gone.  I ensured that they were sold back to their family for a great profit.  I promised you that they would get a good purse, and as a result each and every man here will receive ten gold coins extra as part of their share of our profits.”

Now the sound below rose to joyous jubilation, all cheering the captain at their fortunes, their faces showing their appreciation.

Nodding his head Alex breathed in a long settling breath.  While it would cost him a great deal of money, if they were successful then the cost would be worth it.  Standing tall he lifted his arms.  “OK.  We are in agreement.  Now what are we waiting for?  You had your fun, you had a break… Now get to work.  Get this ship moving out of this dock.  We have only a week to get to our meeting place and a long way to travel”, his mouth firming as each man rushed to do his job.

 

{next installment due 31st Jan}

Pirate’s Revenge (pt 20)

Chapter Twenty

She could see the man held a pistol in his hand, his ugly features contorted in a cruel sneer.  “Gonna have to ask you folks to step out of the carriage”, his words filling the small space, Elizabeth feeling herself rooted to the seat with terror.  Captain Bennet however, with no warning, pushed the door open, catching the man completely by surprise, before propelling him against the side.  She gasped seeing as he held a dagger to the throat of the man who worked for her father.  His movements were as fast and graceful as those of Alex, even with his limp, her eyes widening as the ruffian cried out in surprised shock, a pathetic whimper leaving him as the pistol, with almost effortless ease, was plucked from his fingers, the blade held against the beating vein in his neck.

“I don’t think so”, Captain Bennet snarled, his tone hard and cold, the sound of it sending a shiver even down Elizabeth’s spine.  He was most certainly not a man to be messed with.  “I think you will be seeing the magistrate and he will most definitely be making an example of highwaymen like you”

By now the henchman had lost his superior swagger, his entire body shaking, his eyes wide with terror.  “No… no my lord.  You have it wrong.  I work for Lord Palmer… I ain’t no highwayman.  I was looking for a woman what robbed him… She escaped onto this road.  I was ordered to check carriages for her… Please I ‘ave a letter in me pocket”, his slight move to reach in his pocket met with the knife being brought harder against his flesh, a terrified squeal leaving him.  Elizabeth could feel the bubble of laughter rise from within, she struggling to hold down the sound as she watched the scene.  THIS was the man who had tried to terrorise her, her insides feeling lighter, she even managing to feel a small bit of sympathy for him.

Captain Bennet pushed his hand into the man’s pocket, pulling the officious sheet from within.  Stepping back still with his knife to the ruffian’s throat he whipped the sheet through the air until it opened, his eyes quickly scanning the words.  Turning to the man he threw that paper at him as he stepped back, his face full of dark rage.  “You are fortunate that I did not kill you.  In future you will identify yourself and your intentions, is that understood?”  The other man could only nod, his body still trembling with fear “Y… Yes Sir.  I’m sorry Sir”, his reply stuttered as his eyes watched the Captain sheath his knife back into his jacket from where it had been produced with lightening speed, his hand taking the proffered pistol with shaky hands.

Covering the door, to give the man a very limited view of the women inside, Captain Bennet frowned, his voice still harsh.  “As for your woman, I most certainly would not stop my carriage for some commoner”.  His head briefly nodded towards the inside of the carriage.  “I am accompanying my sister and her maid to my home”  Another scowl lit his fierce features.  “This I hope has not scared them too much.  I think that you owe them an apology”  His words were not so much a request as a demand, his stance ensuring the cowardly man across from him quickly deferred, his head dropping as he bowed to the women in the carriage.  “Forgive me m’ladies.  Was not my intent to make you feel bad or scared”, his beady eyes quickly flicking to the tall proud man beside him, “I can tell that you would be in no danger accompanied as you are with his lordship… I ‘opes you are very ‘appy ‘ere”

With a snort Captain Bennet once more entered the carriage, slamming the door closed as he yelled for the driver to continue.  Elizabeth’s last sight of the man on the road was him retrieving the letter, his stance far less assured.  With a smile she knew that he would be far more careful with the next carriage he stopped.

Across from her Captain Bennet smiled, his expression once more softening.  “Are you OK?”, his kindly words pulling a large smile to her face as she laughed, the sound full of sincere fun.  “I am very well thank your Captain… However, I think that he might not be”  He laughed with her, the atmosphere inside the carriage much lightened.  Finally as silence once more fell she regarded him thoughtfully.  “How exactly do you know my husband Captain?”, her words full of the curiosity she felt.  He smiled fondly.  “Alex and I were in the navy together.  He is a fine man Mrs Hunter”, his brows knitting together in a sure expression, “And I refuse to believe that he is some common pirate”

Elizabeth felt her chin rise proudly in defense of the man she loved.  “There is nothing common about my husband Sir”, she bit out with certainty, Captain Bennet grinning at her as he nodded, “No there is definitely not”  Leaning forward his look captured hers. “And no matter what anybody says or tries to make you believe, you hang on to that belief.  The Alex Hunter I know is an honourable man.  Whatever he is doing he is doing with good reason and I will hear nobody say otherwise”

Elizabeth gave a long sigh, nodding, before more cautiously looking back at him.  “You seem to know him well… Please tell me about him”  She could see the surprise enter his eyes as she gave a small tinkling laugh, “I feel that I have known him all of my life Captain… but in actuality it was less than two weeks”

Now is was the captain’s turn to look at her in stunned surprise.  “You only knew each other for that short a time… And he married you?”  Elizabeth shrugged, a wistful smile on her lovely lips.  “Two weeks, two years… It mattered not.  We knew how we felt about each other”, playfulness now lighting the blueness of her eyes.  “Although perhaps it was just fate righting a wrong.  You see I was promised to him many years ago when I was a child”

She could see the way the captain’s mouth fell open in disbelief.  “Elizabeth Hunter… Good god you are Elizabeth Palmer”, his body stiffening in shock.  With another smile Elizabeth nodded her head, “Yes”

Across from her she could see the way the tall man leant back in his chair, his eyes averted from her as he seemed to be deep in thought.  Finally, he turned once more to her, his expression carefully blank, his voice soft, she knowing he was choosing his words carefully.  “Lady Hunter… You strike me as a lady of high values and good principles and I find myself in a quandary… Alex Hunter is a good friend of mine, however he does have issues with his past.  I am not sure what my friend told you… but perhaps your marriage is not what you believe”

She laughed again, her large eyes shining brightly, “Be calm captain.  My husband told me everything.  He did not marry me out of some need for vengeance or revenge, although he would have had every right to do so after what my father did to him had he chosen.  He and I married because we love each other” The last part spoken with a dreamy lilt to her words.  The captain shook his head, a large smile on his face.

“I am relieved indeed to hear this Lady Hunter”, a note of fun creeping into his voice, “Though I must say that I very much envy my friend.  Beautiful and smart… I am not sure that he deserves you”

Blushing, Elizabeth was still not used to men being so open with their praise.  She chuckled, “Oh he most certainly does Sir, I on the other hand… Well let us just say he saved me from a terrible fate.  For I was on my way to the Americas to marry Lord Archer when he rescued me”

By her side she could hear Maria snicker at her description of how she had been abducted by the pirate captain, the man across looking at the two women with wide eyes before her words sunk in, his brows furrowing “Lord Archer?  You are kidding me?  The man must surely be fifty”

Elizabeth nodded, a shiver passing through her.  “My father had made a deal with him, and I was to be his wife”  Captain Bennet looked at her with sympathy in his eyes.  “I have not heard any good things of your father”, his mouth firming, “And to throw his daughter to a beast like that confirms my contempt for the man.  Lord Archer would have destroyed a woman such as yourself”

With another chuckle Elizabeth nodded.  “So as you see Sir, my husband can do no wrong in my eyes either” Both smiled at the other with knowing looks, an unspoken understanding falling between them. “Captain Bennet I would very much appreciate it if you were to call me Elizabeth”  Her words elicited a return smile from him as he nodded, “And I would hope Elizabeth that you would call me Philip”

For the next two hours the carriage continued on its journey.  With no more interruptions they made good time, Captain Bennet’s home twenty miles from the Hunter estate.  As they turned into the gates of his impressive estate, Elizabeth not familiar with it, night was already starting to fall.

During the trip their host had informed them of being contacted by the butler who had begged him for his help in keeping Lord Hunter’s new wife safe from harm.  With dramatic gestures he made the two women laugh, telling how he had instantly left his estate to offer his assistance and to rush to their defense.  Elizabeth threw her hand over her head as she played along, “And you arrived just in the nick of time… What a trouper”, everybody laughing.

The carriage slowing and the sound of horse hooves clip-clopping on cobbled stones brought a grin to their host’s features.  “Home at last.  I have arranged food for all, as I am sure that you must be tired and hungry”

Elizabeth and Maria could only nod, both beginning to feel the effects of their day and the long journey.  Stepping from the carriage, Captain Bennet took the hands of both women, gallantly helping them from the coach.  Elizabeth looked up at the large building, its imposing walls offering security and protection.  “You have a fine home”, she managed, smiling at her rescuer.  He bowed slightly, nodding, “Thank you Elizabeth.  Not as impressive as either the Palmer or Hunter estate… but I enjoy it… and perhaps one day it will be a wonderful family home” Elizabeth darted a look at the captain, his words spoken almost sadly as he stepped forward into his home as his coachman moved away leaving Elizabeth, Maria and Jim to follow obediently behind him.

{next installment Jan 14th 2014}

 

New Book out!

I have now published the new book ‘Blackmailing the Billionaire’

This time it is our heroine who is the one in the driving seat…calling all the shots…or is it?

Hope you enjoy:)

 

 

Pirate’s Revenge (Pt 19)

Chapter Nineteen

Elizabeth felt the lump in her throat thicken, the love and loyalty shown by all of his staff making her eyes blur with tears.  All she could manage was a husky “Thank you”, the assembled group looking back at her with warm smiles, before Arthur gave a soft cough.  “We will look after you Lady Hunter…you have my word”

With a look at the friendly round woman who had earlier spoken, he nodded to her.   “Lady Hunter, this is my wife Sara.  She is going to prepare you”, his head nodding for the woman to step closer, her hands pulling on Elizabeth dragging her to a chair.  From a hamper the woman pulled a dark wig, and quickly with the help of Maria, fitted it over Elizabeth’s golden hair.  Passing her some glasses, which she obediently placed on her face, Sara stood back to take in the way Elizabeth looked.  Cocking her head thoughtfully, she used some white powder to lessen the natural glow of her skin.  Finally finished, both Sara and Maria smiled, nodding with satisfaction as Arthur stepped forward.

Leaning in to kiss his wife on the cheek, he grinned at Elizabeth, “Don’t think anybody would recognise you now m’lady”  She smiling back, her top teeth snagging her bottom lip as she frowned in concentration.  “Maybe not with a cursory glance Mr Thomas, but I think they will look very closely at somebody walking out of this estate”

Chuckling, Arthur nodded, a telling look exchanged between husband and wife as he moved to the kitchen door.  “You are of course right Lady Hunter… Fortunately we are taking a shortcut… one your father has never learnt of” With questioning eyes she rose to join Jim, Maria, Sara and Arthur joining them.  While she and Jim exchanged questioning glances the others seemed to know exactly what to do.

Together the five people stealthily crept into the main area of the house, Arthur and Sara – who was carrying a tray with tea and savouries – stepping forward, ensuring that the coast was clear before allowing them to move.  Soon they found themselves in the large entrance, Elizabeth’s heart hammering in her chest with the fear that at any moment any of the many doors could open and the group be discovered, she terrified not only for herself, but what they would do to those helping her.

Looking back, his face serious, Arthur whispered in a hushed voice.  “Your father and some of his men are in the living room still, and they have the door open.  We need to get to the library which is just past it… so we have arranged a diversion… When I tell you to go you need to run quietly past the door”, his eyes looked at the three before him, each nodding their agreement and understanding silently.

Moving forward, Sara walked into the living room, her cheerful voice filling the silence of the room, Elizabeth catching her breath hearing her father’s voice.  “What is this? I do not recall ordering refreshments” The unmistakable voice of the butler filled the air “No Sir.  I called for them.  I thought you might appreciate the break”  Elizabeth could hear the sounds of the other men move forward, their voices more enthusiastic. “Hope you don’t mind Lord Palmer… Bit hungry, and that’s the truth” She heard the dismissive snort of her father, then the unmistakable sound of cups clinking, before something smashed, the cry of anger from her father clear.

Arthur stood closer to the door, his eyes focussed on his wife, now stood within his sight near the door.  As she nodded, he signalled for the other three to move quickly, the four dashing across the openin. Elizabeth caught a glimpse of the men inside, all focussed on the butler, who was kneeling down picking up remnants of a plate, the plate she had seen earlier stacked with goodies.  Holding down the chuckle, she knew that the ‘accident’ had been deliberate to give them a chance of escape, the fact that none of the men would be eating giving her an added flash of pleasure.

At the library, Arthur slipped into the magnificent room, closing the door silently behind them.  Safe, the four all exhaled relieved sighs, smiling at each other.  The Stable Manager moved to one corner of the room, the entire wall lined with bookshelves, large volumes stacked on them.  Gesturing for them to join him, he wrapped his fingers around an ornate section of scrollwork, pressing part of the intricate design.  To her surprise the bookcase slide backwards, revealing a secret entrance.  Gasping, the three peered into the inky blackness, Arthur leading the way as he lit a torch hanging on the wall close by.

Once all were inside, he pressed another spot on the internal wall, the bookcase once more sliding back to its original position.  Elizabeth stared at Arthur her eyes wide, “How on earth did you keep that secret?”  He chuckled.  “Well, nobody ever really liked your father my lady, so we felt keeping some secrets from him was for everybody’s best… and as it turns out… we were right”  Laughing softly, she nodded in agreement.  “Yes Mr Thompson… You most certainly were… Is there a secret chamber for us to hide?”  Arthur’s features became more sombre.  “No Lady Hunter.  Fortunately this tunnel leads out to an outhouse just outside the main gate.  We have organised for you to be held in a safe place”

With that the small group moved quickly down the long tunnel.  It seemed to take forever, the tunnel eerily warm, with the dank smell making her nose twitch.  Finally, however, they reached a set of steps leading to a small walkway.  Arthur lifted a long bolt, daylight pouring in through two small holes which he fixed his eyes to, ensuring that the coast was clear.  Giving a satisfied humph, he then pressed another section of the wall, the wall sliding forward into the small barn.

Stepping out they found themselves still partially hidden by shadow, Arthur indicating that they should remain where they were till he ensured that all was as it should be.  As he moved from the outhouse, the three froze, hearing the sound of voices.  Jim pulled out his sword as he stepped before Elizabeth and Maria.  Not even her fear could stop the pride she felt at the young man, his instinctive move to protect them telling, her mind thinking how proud Alex would be.

The three did not have to wait long, before Arthur reappeared.  Beside him, a tall handsome man strode with him, his features sombre as the two joined them. “Lady Hunter”, Arthur spoke, his voice respectful, “I would like for you to meet Captain Bennet.  He has a house three miles from here, and has offered you and your companions sanctuary”

Seeing Jim stiffen, Elizabeth placed a gentle hand on his arm, her look taking in the newcomer.  He was as tall as Alex, and about the same age, handsome too.  His eyes, which were assessing her also were brown and soulful.  Pulling a smile to her face, she extended her hand, the captain taking it and bowing over it in a motion which spoke of good breeding.  “Captain Bennet, we appreciate your kindness”, her look flicking warily to Arthur, “However, it might be better if we were to move further away.  My father has considerable sway over the area, and I fear that it would go very badly for you and your family if I were to be discovered in your care”

Before her Captain Bennet’s lips quirked up, approval shining in his eyes “I truly thank you for your concern Lady Hunter, however, I have no family, and I owe Alex Hunter my very life”  The smile left his features as a more determined look settled on him, his voice dropping authoritatively.  “Therefore, I must insist on your accompanying me and accepting my offer.  I can assure you that you will be safe”

Elizabeth held back the surprised shock at the man’s words, her mouth snapping closed as she began to chuckle softly, amusement filling her. “Well it would seem that you have made up your mind Captain”, Elizabeth moving forward towards the barn entrance, before pausing and looking at the man over her shoulder.  “And if there is one thing I have learnt from my husband Sir, is not to argue when he has ‘that’ look”, her mouth widening into a large smile, “and I see you have perfected that look also”

Captain Bennet gave out a loud guffaw of genuine laughter, his eyes resting appreciatively on the woman before him as he nodded “My friend finally met his match I think Lady Hunter, and about time”, he moving up level with her, “and I will ensure that you stay safe until his return”

Elizabeth had been surprised to see how the man seemed to limp, his slight movement unnoticed as he had walked in, but now evident as they moved together to the waiting carriage.  She wondered what he meant when he had said Alex had saved his life, the thoughts swirling around her head as she contemplated Captain Bennet.

Reaching the carriage, both Maria and Elizabeth joined him in the main body of the coach, Jim sitting up top with the driver, Arthur waving them away.

Alone with their new saviour, Elizabeth gave him a nervous smile “So what is the plan Captain?  I think that there might well be questions asked if a woman were to suddenly appear in your home.  I doubt such talk would do your reputation any good” The man opposite chuckled, the sound full of humour as he inclined his head in agreement.  “Indeed not Lady Hunter.  Would be the most scandalous of behaviour.  However, when we learnt that you were on your way, I let it be known throughout the area that I was fetching my sister to stay with me – that her husband had recently died and she would be residing in my home.  So you see Lady Hunter, both our reputations will remain intact and nobody will think anything of your presence”

Raising an eyebrow in surprise she shook her head in bemusement.  “So many people prepared to help my husband and I”, a quivering smile turning up the corners of her soft mouth, “and I know that it cannot be for me… so it shows the love people have for Alex.  Nobody would ever go out of their way for my father”  Captain Bennet allowed his hand to momentarily cover hers, his touch and voice soft, “He is loved, and now so too are you”

Opening her mouth to speak, her head flew round hearing the loud cry from the road, the carriage coming to a halt.  Captain Bennet pushed back the curtain, his head popping out to demand an explanation even as the face of the man who had tried to rape her came into sight.  Elizabeth slunk harder into the corner, knowing that there was no escape.

{next installment 30th December}

The Millionaire’s Society Mistress

When Craig Thompson attempts to buy over the Campbell family business, his interest is more in their contacts than the business itself. However, the Campbell’s are not about to let an asset stripping ruthless American take control of their business and they refuse leading to a hostile take-over won by the American. Now Craig demands that in exchange for allowing Scott Campbell to remain in control, his sister, the beautiful Fiona Campbell pretend to be his mistress. In doing so he expects her to introduce him to the cold standoffish aristocracy and royalty that make up their client base.

What he is not telling her though is that he has no intention for the relationship to remain platonic, making his desire for her very clear. Can Fiona keep the American at arm’s length, and more importantly…does she want to.

Pirate’s Revenge (Pt 18)

Chapter Eighteen

For several minutes Elizabeth remained shaking in her curled up position on the floor, fear engulfing her.  Would he be back?  Would her father step in to stop him?  Coldness seeped deeply into her bones; no.  Her father had cared little when giving her to Alex, a man he had done so badly by, a man who had every right to feel deserving of revenge, not caring that he might have taken out his anger on her.  She had to face facts that her father would not step in.  In fact, given his words, he might be the one she should be most afraid of – his words that he would kill her ones she believed.  However, she would rather die than give Alex away.

The thought of the man she loved with everything in her finally saw her pull herself together.  Alex had thought her brave, and here she was cowering on the floor.  With renewed courage she pushed herself once more to her feet.  She wanted to see her husband again, and the only way to do that was to survive, to escape.  Moving around the bedroom, she checked every cupboard and drawer searching for anything that she could use as a weapon, holding back the small scream of frustration finding nothing.

While the room was prepared for guests, the huge four-poster bed elegantly draped in luxurious bedding, everything else was empty.  Moving to the Juliet balcony, she looked down, holding the groan at the large drop.  Jumping would kill her, or at the least result in many broken bones.  Frowning, her look once more moved to the door.  Perhaps it would be a better end than allowing the guard to use her.

Hearing the key being once more turned in the door, Elizabeth felt the fear clog her throat, her eyes widening as she gripped the balcony, her hands shaking as she fought hard to calm herself.  As the door opened, her fear turned to disbelief as Maria slid slowly into the room, quietly closing the door after she had dragged what looked like a huge armful of sheets in behind her.

Running back into the room, she could hardly contain her relief and happiness seeing her young maid. “Maria…Oh thank God you are well!”  The young girl grinned, bobbing a quick curtsy, before she too ran to meet her mistress, the two hugging, Elizabeth almost laughing with joy.  “I was so concerned for you!…What are you doing here?”, the questions tripping over themselves as she grinned at the younger girl, her situation temporarily forgotten.

Maria laughed, her features glowing.  “The captain put us back on the ship and warned me not to go back to your father’s estate Miss.  He gave me the name of Mr Bennet.  Told me to come here and I would be safe.  Gave me a letter of introduction too miss.  They have looked after me here”  Love blasted once more into Elizabeth, tears sparkling in her eyes with the realisation that even then, before he fell in love with her, he had looked out for the young girl before her.  Alex was a good man.

Looking back towards the door, Maria’s features looked fearful, her voice taking on more of an urgency, “We have be quick Miss.  Your father is going to want to speak to you again”, her voice dropping as had her eyes, “Or…Or that guard”  Elizabeth looked towards the door nodding.  “OK”, her eyes lowering to the pile of sheets on the floor, a frown creasing her smooth forehead, her eyes questioning.

With a chuckle Maria grabbed the sheets, moving towards the balcony “Mr Bennet came up with this plan Miss.  This room is at the back of the estate.  He plans on having them all hunting you down in the wrong place while we slip out of the front”, her eyes full of laughter, “He is a clever man Miss”

Nodding, she quickly moved to help the young maid, who was tying one end of what looked like a rope made of tied sheets to the balustrade, before throwing the rest out, the sheets creating the perfect escape route.  “Do we have to climb down?”  Her words held the wariness she felt as Maria laughed louder, “No Miss…don’t know about you…but I definitely wouldn’t make it down there”

Nodding in agreement she moved to the large bed, to help Maria who was now pulling the sheets from the bed, her eyes twinkling.  “Mr Bennet wanted to make it look like you had escaped all on your own Miss, so we need to take these to make it look like you made the rope from the ones here so that nobody else will get into trouble”

Elizabeth smothered the laugh as she felt respect fill her for the older man, feeling for the first time the knot of fear for Jim unravelling.  Instinctively she knew that the scene played out at the coach had been part of a plan – that plan including saving the young man.

With the sheets bundled in her arms, Maria once more returned to the door, carefully opening it a crack to ensure that the coast was still clear.  With a nod she moved out, Elizabeth following her.  Re-locking the door the two women then moved quickly but silently down the hall to the servant’s area.

Here the sheets were quickly discarded, Maria pulling a cloak from a cupboard, the two moving to the kitchen area.  Elizabeth was surprised, as the rest of the servants seemed to be in on the plan, each and every one curtsying or bowing respectfully to her, their features showing their determination to see her safe.  Warmth filled her.  Had she not already known that Alex was the best of people, the way his old staff put themselves in danger to protect her confirmed that he had been loved and respected by all.

The kitchen door opening saw the staff quickly hide her behind them, before all exhaled loud breaths of relief seeing three men move into the area.  Elizabeth gave a cry of joy seeing Jim, his eyes lighting up, the tension in his features disappearing seeing her also, she rushing forward to grasp his hands.  “Oh thank God that you are safe”

Around them, she could see the way the other servants looked at each other, all surprised she could tell with her concern for her man servant, many smiling fondly at the woman who was now their mistress.  Stepping forward, one of the men who had accompanied Jim pulled off his hat, his respectful gesture pulling a large smile to her face as she fixed him with thankful eyes.  “Thank you for rescuing Jim”, a shudder leaving her, “My father would have had him killed for sure”, the warmth and sincerity of her words making the man before her flush slightly, his pleasure hidden by an embarrassed gruff nod.  “Was my pleasure Miss”

Jim chuckled, seeing the way Arthur, the man who had stood up to two heavily armed men without blinking an eye seemed to be struggling when faced with the beautiful woman before him.  Turning, he smiled.  “Lady Hunter, this is Arthur, he and John…”, the other man also staring with large eyes at the woman before him, “they rescued me from the guards” Smiling once more Elizabeth bestowed both men with her large smile, the smile that made her features glow, her “thank you” making both men grin sheepishly back.  Looking around Jim could see that everybody in the room already loved the woman before them, not surprised given her courage and kindness.

A loud cry outside broke the moment, as Arthur motioned for Elizabeth to be hidden, hands gently pulling her, Maria and Jim leading her into the large pantry, the door closed softly behind them.  Leaning against the wood to listen she could hear Arthur’s voice, his tone full of irritation.  “What do you mean she is missing?”, a laugh leaving the man, “You’d best go tell his lordship then mate…He ain’t gonna be too pleased”  She heard another voice, the tone guttural and cruel.  “She climbed out of the window at the back…If she comes here…” However, the man was interrupted by the impatient voice of the stable manager.  “This place is crawling with guards…she would be stupid to try and come back here…seems to me she is most likely running across the moor.  She must know that there are carriages going across there all the time”, the man’s voice filling with humour, “She might get lucky and get herself rescued…your Lord Archer isn’t going to like that much”

Elizabeth jumped hearing the loud expletive leave the other man, Maria beside her clapping a hand to her mouth to smother the laugh which rose to her lips, Elizabeth silencing her with a warning look.  She heard the door being wrenched open as the guard screamed for the dogs to be fetched, a shudder running through her.  Would her father really have allowed her to be hunted down by dogs? Her mouth thinned knowing only too well the answer to that.

After several moments the door of the pantry was once more opened, the three again entering the kitchen.  Turning to Arthur, she smiled.  “You are a brave man Mr…”, her eyes questioning as Arthur flushed, his tone once more soft and respectful, “Thomas Miss….Arthur Thomas”  Turning to look at the rest of the servants, all silently smiling at her she felt pride fill her, “Thank you all.  I know that you all know that I am Lord Archer’s daughter…and I am sure that you must be concerned…”  Stepping forward an older, round woman with gentle kindly eyes waved her words away, “No Lady Hunter.  Our Master chose you as his wife.  He is the best of men, and has always been a good judge of character, and as such we know that you are nothing like your father”, a more wicked gleam lighting the depths of her twinkling blue eyes, “That plus we heard what you said to him when you arrived…the Master would be proud of you” Around her all others nodded in agreement, many laughing, all staring at her with respectful admiration.

Fixing the assembled group with thankful eyes she managed to smile, her throat suddenly thick with emotion.  “Thank you.  Thank you all”, her brows knitting together, concern lighting her eyes. “But I have no desire to see any of you get into trouble.  My father will make you all pay dearly if he finds out your involvement.  It is best I slip out and take my chances”

Arthur Thomas stepped forward.  “We appreciate that Lady Hunter.  But we have a plan…”, the rest of the group nodding as humour filled the stable manager’s eyes, “And not one which will see you eaten by dogs…I am pretty sure that Lord Hunter would look dimly at us having allowed his wife to be eaten by your father’s hounds”

Next installment 4th December