Eye of the Needle
Part III
Phillip yawned as he settled back into the comfortable desk chair, gazing contently out
the large window. He picked up his glass from the table, sipping the wine he'd found in
one of the cabinets. "This is just too good to be true." He grinned happily as
he took another sip. There was only the matter of the Torment herself, but he'd send men
out. She couldn't have gone far and a sailor without a ship was like
Like a
successful captain without a bonus. He chuckled, closing his eyes contently.
A hard knock on the door disturbed him in his peacefulness and he looked up in irritation.
"What?"
A younger man stepped into the room, dropping his head in obedience. "I'm sorry to
disturb you captain, but you're wanted on deck, sir."
Phillip stepped outside, pulling his coat tighter as the wind swept around him. He stepped
over to the railing, gazing out towards the beach. There was a woman sitting on a horse,
surrounded by his men. The younger man led him towards the small rowboat and Phillip sat
down, waiting for two others to take the oars and start rowing towards the beach.
The sand grinded beneath his boots as he stepped onto the earth. The blond woman was
sitting quietly, a dark shape lying limply over the horse's neck. He looked up at her
quietly. "What is it you want?"
She smiled. "It's not what I want, sir. It's what you want, and how much you're
willing to pay for it." She stated, then lifted up the dark head by the hair, showing
him the face that was edged into his memory in a deep blood-red color.
"You've captured the Curse?"
"Yes." The woman smiled again. "And she's all yours
in return for a
safe trip to Sydney and a bit of change for me to live off for a while."
Phillip was silent for a moment, staring at her. "You realize I can take her from you
in a flash. Kill you and she's mine, without paying you one penny."
A low chuckle. "True." The woman stated, then lifted the small dagger she was
holding in her right hand. "But she'd be dead. And if I'm not mistaken, she's worth a
lot more alive, isn't she? All I'm asking is a safe journey, which is free for you to
give, and maybe a pound or two
Now, isn't that worth capturing her alive?" A
cruel smile crossed the girl's face. "Tormenting her is a lot more fun when she's
able to scream for help, isn't it?"
The captain gazed at her for another moment, then he started laughing. "It surely
is." He turned to his men. "At ease. Henry, take our Curse down to the
hull." He looked up at the woman before him. "If you'll allow us?"
"Do we have a deal?"
Phillip smiled. "You have my word, miss."
She nodded, then negligently pushed the shape before her off the horse, making it fall to
the ground, thumping down on the sand with a loud thud.
Phillip grinned, then stepped closer and reached up a hand to help her off the horse.
"I am surprised at your harshness, miss. Delighted, but surprised
nevertheless."
The woman accepted his hands and softly slid off the horse. "The name is Catherine.
And when you've been stowed away in a dark hull for the last year or so, harshness is not
hard to muster, sir."
"Phillip." Phillip stated, taking her arm as he watched as his nemesis was rowed
towards his ship. "Captain of this ship, but at the rate this is going, soon to be
Admiral."
Catherine laughed softly. " And well disserved it is, captain Phillip. After all,
catching the Torment of the Southern Seas single handily is not something that can be done
by any man, now is it?"
He laughed as well, understanding she was not going to tell the governor the real story,
when they got to that stage. "No it isn't, my lady, it certainly isn't." He
smiled, supporting her as she stepped into the small rowboat that was waiting for them,
then stepped in himself and sat down beside her. "I'll have a room made ready for
you." He looked at her ragged dress, falling of her thin form. "And some new
clothing would probably be appropriate as well."
She smiled another charming smile. "You are too kind, captain."
"Not at all, my lady, not at all." He answered pleasantly as he climbed on board
his ship, then reached down and took her hand. "I would be quite honored though if
you would privilege me with your presence for diner this evening. I'm quite curious about
the details of this remarkable capture."
"It would be my pleasure, sir."
"Excellent." Phillip turned to one of his crew. "Take this lady to her room
and make sure she's looked after." He gave the man a meaningful look, unseen by
Catherine herself, then turned back towards the girl. "I'm afraid our roads must part
here for the moment, miss. I am looking forward to our diner this evening."
"So am I, captain." Catherine stated with a sweet smile, then she turned towards
the sailor, who offered his arm gallantly, and she was led off towards her room.
Phillip gazed after her for a moment, turning his head as his lieutenant stopped beside
him. "What do you make of her, Patrick?"
The lieutenant seemed to consider this for a moment. "I'm not sure, captain. But one
thing is sure though. She seriously hates Lara Dean. Our former Curse has a bump on her
head the size of the governor's ego."
The captain laughed softly. "That big, huh?" Another chuckle, then he sobered.
"I do not trust her, Patrick. But she intrigues me. And since she doesn't pose any
harm, I see no reason to kill her just yet." A grin as he looked at his lieutenant.
"But arrangements might have to be made later on."
Patrick nodded. "Understood, sir."
"Good." The captain smiled, then walked his lieutenant towards the stern.
"Send out word that Lara Dean has been caught. Captured, by me personally." He
gave Patrick a meaningful look. The lieutenant just nodded in understanding. "And
send out a patrol to search for the soldiers that were send east. I bet our friend there
didn't just find that horse walking around freely."
"Yes, sir."
Lara stirred, an immense pain shooting through her head instantly.
"Ouch."
"Lara?" Rattling sounded behind her as Matthew moved closer to the bars that
were separating them.
The captain sat up quietly, touching the bump on her head tentatively, then looked in
disbelief at the chains locked around her wrists.
"Lara? Hey? Are you OK?"
The dark haired woman managed to straighten and she shuffled over to the bars herself.
"I've had better days."
Matthew took a breath, then reached his hand through the bars and touched hers. "I'd
like to say it's great to see you, but considering the circumstances
"
"What happened?" Lara asked softly, leaning her head against the cold metal of
the bars.
"The obvious." Matthew stated with a sigh. "We managed to get through the
Eye, but unfortunately, so did they. We tried to out sail them, and I pulled the ship in
here to hide, but they probably saw us, and blocked the exit. I knew it was hopeless. I
had no choice, so I surrendered
And here we are now
"
Lara nodded softly. "You did right Matt."
"Uhm... excuse me?"
Lara looked up to see an older man peek at her from the cell across from her, holding onto
the bars with both hands. She raised an eyebrow at him.
"The girl
That was with you, Catherine
Is she
?"
Blue eyes turned icily cold. "You speak her name again and you're dead."
The man staggered back. "But
"
"How do you think I got this?" Lara hissed, pointing at the bump on her head in
anger. "Or did you think I knocked myself over the head?"
"She'd never
"
Lara narrowed her eyes at him. "She betrayed me. I trusted her and she betrayed me.
Now you so much as mention her again and I'll rip out this steal door here and beat you
over the head with it
Got that?"
The man nodded softly, then stepped back quietly, looking around in complete
disbelief.
A few moments passed, then there was a rattling of keys and the sound of the outer door
opening. Footsteps echoed through the hull and finally the captain's long form
appeared.
"Well well." A wicked grin crossed his face. "I see our precious guest has
awoken."
Lara looked up and straight into his gray eyes. "Phillip."
"I'm honored someone so famous as you are, remembers an insignificant little captain
like myself." Phillip told her in utter politeness as he stepped into the cell she
was in. "Now, I believe I owed you something." He took on a pensive look for a
moment as he walked to stand before her, then his face lightened. "Oh yes, now I
remember."
The blow of his fist slammed into her stomach and for a moment she gasped for
breath.
Phillip laughed. "Remember that, Lara? Remember when you took my ship from
me?"
Lara looked up at him, then managed a grin. "Oh yeah, I sure do."
A booted foot against her knee made her wince in pain.
"Oh, you think you're so tough, don't you?" Phillip hissed at her, grabbing onto
her hair and pulling her head up sharply. "Well, the roles are reversed now. I'll get
my revenge on you. The governor wanted you alive, but he didn't say you had to be in
perfect shape." A wicked grin crossed his face. "But I see your little friend
has all ready taken care of that part for me."
Blue eyes narrowed dangerously.
Phillip chuckled again, then stepped back. "I'd love to continue this wonderful
conversation, but unfortunately I'm expected for diner. Want me to send your
regards?"
"You can tell her I hope she rots in Hell, where she belongs."
Another laugh bubbled up. "She'll be pleased to hear that from you." He stated,
then turned and walked out of the cell, locking it behind him.
Catherine straightened the sea green fabric of her dress before entering the captain's
quarters behind the younger sailor that had led her there.
Phillip stood up behind his desk and dismissed the boy with a single swipe of his hand,
then walked closer, bowing politely. "You look astonishing, miss."
"Thank you." She acknowledged his compliment gracefully, then took his arm as he
led her over to the small table that had been placed in the center of the room. Cathy
noted that Lara's bed had been shifted, as had some of the chest and cabinets. She sat
down as he pulled out her chair for her, then sat down himself. "Wine?"
Cathy shook her head. "Just water please."
Phillip nodded, pouring the liquid into her glass. "Well, miss Catherine, I have to
say, it's been quite a day
"
"I have to agree with you, captain." Cathy stated, sipping her drink. "And
I'm quite sure you're eager to hear my version of it."
Phillip chuckled softly. "You're very perceptive, my lady."
Cathy smiled, then cut off a small piece of meat from her plate and chewed on it.
"Well, I'm quite sure your prisoners told you that your Curse was washed off the
ship, just like I was. We ended up on a small beach, in between huge cliffs. I realized I
needed her to get out of this troubling situation. We traveled on until we met your men a
few days ago. Lara was already tired out after some fight she got into with one of the
wild beasts of this rugged country, and she had a tough time fighting off your men. When
we reached this alcove I realized I no longer needed her friendship, but yours
"
A smile crossed her face. "And she was the way of acquiring it. Considering the state
she was in and the fact that she trusted me, delivering her was not much of a
problem
More a pleasure, really."
Phillip laughed softly as he chewed his diner, then swallowed. "I have a hard time
believing that you would betray her so easily, just because it was beneficial to you, if
you don't mind me saying, my lady."
Cathy nodded, settling back in her chair. "I don't mind, since you are correct. Lara
hurt me and it was just gratifying to return the favor."
Phillip shook his head. "She was a fool then, hurting one as beautiful and charming
as you."
A smile crossed the woman's face. "You flatted me, captain."
"I'm simply stating the truth, my lady, honestly."
Cathy inclined her head gracefully, before spiking another piece of meat onto her fork.
"This is really delicious."
"My cooks prepared it especially."
"My compliments."
Phillip shrugged with a smile. "Anything for you, miss Catherine."
Green eyes peeked up at him. "Anything?"
His smile grew broader. "Almost anything."
"Well
" Cathy started, leaning a bit closer. "I do have one favor to
ask of you."
The captain's eyes trailed down for a moment, then quickly back up to her face again.
"What might that be?"
"I'd like to visit your prisoner."
A dark brown eyebrow raised. "What for, if I may ask?"
Cathy leaned back again, smiling at him. "I want to see her in the place where she
kept me. I want her to feel every retched moment I lived through and I want to see her
suffer through it." A dark grin crossed the girl's face. "And add to the
suffering, if possible."
Phillip gazed at her for a moment. Then burst out laughing. "Miss Catherine, you are
a woman after my heart." Another chuckle. "Permission granted." Now he
leaned forward himself. "If you return afterwards and tell me all the horrible
details."
A grin spread across the girl's face. "Most definitely, sir."
"Good. I'll have one of my men escort you."
"Thank you, captain, I'm very grateful."
A wicked grin crossed the captain's face. "My pleasure, really."
Lara looked up as she heard the door open again, followed by two sets of footsteps
walking down the stairs. Soon enough she saw the guard and Catherine stop in front of her
cell.
Catherine turned towards the soldier. "Open it."
"I wouldn't come in here." Lara hissed with narrowed eyes. "I have a very
efficient way of dealing with vermin."
Cathy seemed to ignore her, staring at the soldier. "Open it." She repeated
again, in a lower voice.
The guard seemed to hesitate for another moment, then pulled out the key out of his left
in his pocket and unlocked the cell door, swinging it open.
Cathy edged past the guard, then strode inside, locking her eyes with the prisoner.
The blow swiped Lara's head aside, her skin heating painfully. She looked back into the
green eyes, which turned moments later.
"Leave us."
"But
" The guards argued. "Miss, the captain told me
"
"When I need you I'll yell. Whether you're in here, or just outside the door, doesn't
really matter, does it?" She raised a blond eyebrow at him.
The guard sighed, then straightened. "No, miss. I'll be right outside."
"Good." Cathy stated, then turned back again and waited for the boot steps to
recede and the outer door to close with a thud.
"Did you have to hit me so hard?!" Lara hissed, an outraged look on her
face.
"I had to make this look convincing, right? Don't be such a baby." Cathy
muttered, kneeling down before her and fishing a key out of a small pocket.
"Baby?! Do you have any idea how many times I've been smacked up today?"
Cathy rolled her eyes. "First you start telling me all these macho stories about
having daggers spiked through your stomach, and now you start nagging." The girl
shook her head, keying open the chains around Lara's wrists. "Consider it payback for
that vermin remark of yours."
The captain chuckled as she softly rubbed the red skin on her arms, while Cathy unchained
her feet. "There's not that many men on deck, but they're all heavily armed. It's
almost dark out, so if you wait a few more moments it'll be easier to strike."
"OK." Lara agreed, standing as her feet were freed. "How about the
key?"
"I swiped it off the guard when I walked into your cell. I'll have to slip it back
into his pocket or he'll notice. He'll come down to lock this door again and you can nail
him then and unlock the others."
"Perfect." Lara agreed with a nod.
"I'll keep the captain entertained, repulsive as it is." A breath. "God,
Lara, he's so slimy."
Lara chuckled softly. "I know. Be careful though, I don't think he trust you
yet."
"I know, he doesn't have too, as long as I keep him busy for a little while longer,
that's fine by me." Cathy stated with a sigh. "But get this all over with quick,
OK?"
"Deal." Lara smiled as green eyes looked up at her.
Cathy softly touched her cheek, which had turned slightly red. "Sorry."
"Don't worry about it. It's for the greater good, right?"
The girl smiled. "Right." A moment, then she looked up at the closed door.
"I have to get back, or he'll get suspicious."
Lara nodded. "Be careful."
"You too." Cathy stated softly, before walking out and up the stairs.
Lara looked after her, then turned to stare into hundreds of completely stupefied eyes.
"What?"
Matthew blinked at her. "This
This was all a hoax?"
Lara chuckled, then found a spot in the shadows as she heard boot steps echoing down the
stairs.
"If we get out of this alive I'm gonna sign you up for the theatre." Matthew
shook his head as he rubbed his wrists. "Both of you. That was one hell of a
performance."
"Thank you." Lara chuckled, unlocking the Tom's hands. "I'm sorry we had to
lie, but we couldn't afford anybody slipping up. You know how fast rumors can
go."
"Hey, anytime you wanna lie to save my butt, that's just fine by me, cap." Tom
muttered as he stood and stretched. "God that feels good. My respect for all of you
just jumped two notches guys, I'd never been able to stand this for long."
"It's not like we had a choice." Mary stated as she dragged the guard's limp
form into Lara's former holding.
"Well, I think it's about time we reclaim our freedom." Lara stated, unlocking
the next door. "And that goes for everybody." She looked at her former captives.
"Fight with me?"
A man in his mid forties stood and faced her. "Nothing would please me more,
capt'n." He extended his hand and Lara took it. "John."
"Lara." The captain stated, letting a grin cross her face. "Catherine
speaks well of you."
"That lass should after the stunt she just pulled on me."
Lara chuckled, then turned to see most of the captives now untied and forming a circle
around her. "OK, listen up everyone. Here's the plan."
"I take it your meeting went well?"
Catherine straightened the fabric of her dress, then sat down on one of the chairs
gracefully. "Very well, actually. To see her in chains was
" A grin crossed
her face. "...satisfying."
"It is, isn't it?" Phillip smiled.
"So, when will we be departing?" Cathy started conversationally.
"Soon hopefully." Phillip settled back in his chair and took another sip of his
wine. "Repairs are nearly done. With some luck we'll be able to depart tomorrow
afternoon or so."
"That's quite good to hear, sir." Cathy smiled, shooting a quick look towards
the door. "I'm quite looking forward to finally seeing this Port Jackson."
"Well, don't expect too much, my lady. It's mostly a convict colony. There's a few
settlers though, pubs and hotels. Houses for the governor and his men. Nothing much yet,
but it's a nice setting. The country is very dangerous though, as you might have
noticed." Phillip watched the green eyes dart across the room nervously and frowned.
"Are you all right, my lady? You seem rather nervous
"
Cathy looked up quickly and managed a smile. "My apologies. It must be all the sudden
comfort after these horrible days
And I'm quite tired."
"Maybe you should get some rest than, miss." Phillip suggested, standing up.
"I don't wish to keep you from your needed sleep."
"No, no." Cathy managed hastily as she lifted her hands. "Really sir, I'm
all right."
"No, really, I insist." Phillip continued, stepping slightly closer to the door.
'I
" he stopped suddenly, as a scream sounded from outside. "What
the
?" A knock sounded door and he walked over quickly, pulling the door open.
"Sir!" An out of breath soldier faced him, his clothes hanging ragged from his
body. "The convicts sir, they've
" His sentence stocked in his throat, his
face distorted in pain as he reached or his chest, then fell backwards.
Phillip looked up, the deck crawling with men and women. A sudden movement caught his
attention and he looked up into piercing blue eyes. His nemesis was holding a smoking
pistol in her hand, and pointed it straight for him. In a flash he pulled the door closed
and fumbled with the key, locking it behind him. A thud as the bullet edged it's way into
the wood.
He turned, to find Catherine standing behind the desk, pulling out one of the
drawers.
"It's not there." Cathy looked up at him with wide eyes. Phillip grinned
humorlessly. "The pistol you're looking for
I took it out of that drawer."
He lifted the gun in his hand. "You were in with them all along, weren't
you?"
Catherine backed away slowly. "You
You're mistaken
How could I
have
"
"Don't play games with me!" His gray eyes fumed with rage. "You go and
visit her and now this
Too coincidental, isn't it?" A devilish grin crossed his
face. "Well, if I'm gonna die I might as well take the Torment's little friend down
with me."
Cathy backed against the wall, loosing her balance and slipping down to thud onto the
floor, looking up and into the guns barrel fearfully. "No
"
Phillip laughed as he pulled back the safety catch. "Bye bye."
"Damn it." Lara cursed as she saw the fired bullet edge into the wooden door.
She elbowed aside an onrushing sailor, then pushed off and flipped over a few more.
Another three men came rushing on, and just when she was about to launch out for them
another blade took care of them for her.
"Go!" Matthew yelled as she saw John step up on the other side of her clearing
her way for a moment.
A few steps and she reached the door, pushing against it and finding it locked. A few
paces back then she set her shoulder against the door.
A loud thundering inside the room as a pistol fired made her heart stop, then redouble.
"Catherine!" She yelled, then slammed into the door with all her strength.
A smack and the door flew open and she raced inside. Her mind was a blur, all she could
see was a shape standing before a slumped form, lying against the wall. One, two steps and
she vaulted forward, grabbing the man around the waist and taking him down before his gun
fired again. They struggled, rolling across the wooden floor. Lara managed to end up on
top, overpowering him with her weight. Her fist impacted with his cheek harshly, bleeding
his nose.
Phillip struggled against the pain, desperately trying to free his hand, pulling the gun
towards his enemy.
"Oh no you don't." A deep voice burred, then with a smack against his upper arm
she dislocated his shoulder. The pain seared through him and instinctively he let go of
the weapon.
Lara grabbed onto the gun, then lifted it at him. "Bye Phillip."
A breath, then she made a quick decision and turned the pistol, smacking the hilt against
the captain's head harshly. He dropped down unconsciously, limply lying under her.
A moment she sat silently, closing her eyes. Then a soft moan behind her caught her
attention. A few steps and she knelt down in front of the girl's body.
"Catherine?" She touched the girls cheek softly.
A moment of silence, then deep green eyes blinked and stared directly into hers.
A huge smile crossed her face in relief, as the aching in her heart stopped instantly.
"You OK?"
Catherine looked up at her for a moment, her eyes blinking as her brain tried to grasp the
situation, then she just grabbed onto the captain's sturdy form and pulled her into a hug,
burying herself into Lara's shoulder. A sob escaped her. "Oh my God
"
For a moment Lara stiffened, then she let her muscles relax and hugged the girl back,
pulling her closer with a sigh. "Hey, it's all right. It's over."
She felt a nod against her shoulder, then Cathy pulled back.
"Sorry." She managed, wiping the few tears of her face.
"It's OK." Lara smiled at her, softly touching her cheek. "Did he hurt you?
I heard the gun go off, I thought
"
Cathy swallowed, shaking her head softly. "He fired, but the sound of you coming
through the door freaked him out, and he missed." Her eyes shifted as she looked at
the bullet hole in the wooden wall, an inch or so from where her head had been.
"Barely." A breath as she lifted a shaking hand, pushing back her disheveled
hair. "That was too close
"
"Sorry, I'll try to take over the ship faster next time."
A smile broke through on the girl's face and she laughed softly. "Next time I'll get
caught and you can suck up to the captain, OK?"
"Deal." Lara smiled back at her, pushing a blond lock back behind her ear.
"Ahum"
Blue eyes turned to find Tom standing in the door opening, trying to repress a
smile.
"Sorry to disturb you, captain, but you're wanted on deck."
"We'll be right there." Lara smiled at him, then motioned for the limp form
lying a bit off. "Get some guys and get this piece of crap down to the hull for me,
will ya Tom?"
Tom chuckled, and saluted her cheerfully. "Aye aye captain."
Lara stood and stretched, then reached down a hand. "Come on."
Cathy happily took it and let herself be hauled up, the reached over and wrapped an arm
around the captain's waist. Lara didn't flinch this time, but draped an arm over her
shoulder in return.
"So." Cathy stated, moving towards the door leading onto the deck. "I guess
that makes three huh?"
"Three what?"
"Three times you saved me
I'm really gonna have to start working on paying you
back."
Lara chuckled softly, squeezing her shoulder as they exited the room and a cheer rose
around them as men and women closed in on them.
Matthew walked up and pulled Lara into a hug. "You know you keep amazing me, my
friend."
The captain chuckled, patting him on the back. "Can't let myself get predictable, now
can I?"
Matthew laughed, letting her go, then turned towards the blonde form, surrounded by some
of the former convicts and walked towards her. She turned as he approached. He looked at
her for a moment in silence. "I was wrong about you. I was wrong about a lot of
things."
Cathy looked at him, then smiled. "Don't worry about it." She stated, patting
his shoulder. "You were only looking out for her, that's not a crime."
"I was protecting her from the wrong things, unfortunately." A smile as he
clasped onto her hand. "I won't let that happen again."
"Deal." Cathy grinned.
Lara let herself be pulled along by congratulating hands for a while, mutedly listening
to the words praising her with a smile, remembering the last time it had been like this.
Then suddenly a louder voice edged over the turmoil. "Captain!"
She looked up to see Tom standing at the railing, motioning for her, a blank look on his
face. She frowned, then stepped forward, people moving backward as she did so. She felt
Matthew step up behind her.
"What is it?" She asked, looking at Tom as she stepped closer.
The skipped just turned and pointed.
Lara looked aside and saw the hundreds of small lights blocking the opening to the open
sea. In the shimmer of the darkness she could make out three large ships, the English blue
barely seen flapping near the crow's nest. The firelight reflected of the cannons that
were lined up along the decks.
"Holy mother of God." Matthew muttered, staring into the distance.
Lara sighed, hiding her head in her hand for a moment. "This is just not my day, is
it?"
It took Matthew a few moments to get his brains working again, then he turned to face his
captain. "Lara, we can't fight these guys."
"I know." Came the quiet answer.
"They'll kill you."
"Probably."
A breath as the second in command viciously searched his mind. "Take the
rowboat." He stated, urging her towards the opposite railing. "You could row to
the shore, take the horse
They'd wouldn't catch you
"
"No."
Brown eyes looked into intent blue ones. "Lara, you have to get out of
here
"
"No." Lara shook her head firmly. "I'm not gonna run."
"But Lara
"
"I said no." The blue eyes narrowed as Lara's voice raised slightly. "I'm
not gonna be some refugee in the middle of nowhere, while you all get locked up by
them."
"At least you'll be alive, you'll
"
A soft hand on her arm made Lara turn. Green eyes looked up at her softly, then her eyes
crossed the horizon. "English ships?"
The captain just nodded.
Cathy let her eyes drop, then she lifted them again. "They'll kill
you
"
"I know." A breath. "Catherine, I won't leave this ship. I can't run, not
anymore
I'm tired of hiding
"
Green eyes looked up at her quietly for a moment, then they dropped. "I
know."
"Captain." Tom stepped closer. "They're signaling. They want permission to
come aboard."
"Permission?" Lara muttered, sparing Tom a quick look. "That's new
They developed a sense of sarcasm." She chuckled, but nobody joined in. "Sign
back, permission granted."
Tom gave her a nod, then lit a torch and waved it back and forth towards the ships in the
distance.
Moments later a small rowboat from the lead ship moved closer towards them.
Lara straightened her shoulders, watching the boat approach quietly. Beside her, she heard
Cathy take in a shaky breath. She looked down on the fair head for a moment, the ruffled
the blond hair. "It'll be OK."
Green eyes blinked up at her. "Will it?"
"For you, yes." A smile. "I'll take care of that myself, somehow. I
promise." She pulled the girl closer for a quick hug. "Now go. Stand with
John."
Cathy blinked the tears from her eyes, then shook her head, burying her face into the
captain's shoulder.
"Catherine, if they think you're with me, they'll hurt you. Go stand with your
friend."
A shaky breath as the girl looked up. "I am." The green eyes turned away,
watching as the boat came closer and rope ladder was tossed down.
Lara quietly shook her head at the stubborn girl, but pulled her a bit closer
nevertheless. A quick breath as she straightened, hearing the ropes crack as they
supported the weight of a man.
Moments later a young face appeared. Blond hair, pulled back and a short stubbly beard.
Bright blue eyes, almost matching her own. He flapped his long gray coat on board before
stepping over the railing himself, soon followed by two well armed soldiers.
From the corner of her eye she saw Matthew reaching for his pistol and she gave him a
warning look.
The man glanced around the crowded deck, sparing a glance at the limp soldiers lying in
corners of the deck. Then he looked back up again. "I'm looking for Lara
Dean?"
"That would be me." Lara stepped forward slowly, distancing herself from the
rest.
He looked at her quietly for a moment, then smiled. "Kennard Steward, admiral of the
English Royal Navy." He stated, extending a hand.
Lara frowned, then took the offered hand.
"Would it be possible to talk to you in private for a moment. I have a business
proposition for you."
The captain blinked, then shrugged. "Sure, just uhm
" She pointed towards
the door to her cabin.
Kennard nodded, then stepped towards the door.
Lara exchanged a completely rattled look with Matthew, then followed him, pushing open the
door for English man to enter.
Lara sat down behind her desk and motioned for the admiral to sit down as well. He did,
leaning back in his chair calmly, studying her for another moment. Then chuckled. "I
have to say, when they spoke of the Curse back home, I never expected this battered and
bruised wordless woman."
Lara watched him for a moment, then chuckled softly. "You caught me on an off
day."
"Well..." he smiled at her. "With some luck, I'm about to make this day a
whole lot better
"
Catherine head shot up as the door opened again, and the blond haired man strode out,
giving them all a polite nod, before grabbing onto the rope ladder and lowering himself
towards the rowboat. Murmurs drifted up around her, but she ignored them and walked
towards the door to Lara's quarters, slipping inside quietly.
Lara was leaning against her desk, silently, a look that could best be described as
stupefied on her face.
"Lara?"
The dark head looked up, then smiled at her.
"Are you OK?" She stepped closer softly.
Blue eyes blinked at her for a moment. "It's over."
Over? Alarm bells went off in Cathy's head. "Is he taking you away? He's not
going to
"
"No no no." Lara hastily shook her head. "That's not what I mean,
it's
I mean all of this." She indicated her cabin, the ship.
"It's
" A breath as she hid her head in her hand for a moment, then looked
up at Cathy with a stupid grin on her face. . "Apparently our governor has seized
power in Australia. His soldiers are out of control
He's keeping the convicts that
have already served their sentence as slaves. These ships have come to capture the
governor and release the prisoners." A short pause. "We're free,
Catherine."
Catherine was at a loss for words for a moment. "Free
you
mean
?"
Lara nodded, then wrapped her arms around her friend, lifting her off the ground and
spinning around. "Yes." She whispered. "That's exactly what I mean."
She felt arms wrap around her and smiled, closing her eyes happily. Then she looked up to
spot Matthew in the door opening.
She released Cathy with a pat on the back, then walked towards him.
"Matt
"
He looked at her quietly for a moment, then took two steps forward and enfolded her in a
hug. They stood like this for a moment, then pulled back. "Really?" Matthew
managed.
"Absolutely." The captain smiled. "Everything's over,
Matt
Well..." She grinned. "Not quite everything
"
Cathy cocked her head. "What do you mean?"
"Sit down." Lara ordered, walking towards her desk and perching on the edge of
her desk. Cathy sat down in one of the chairs and Matthew walked up behind her, leaning on
the back of the seat.
"Well." Lara started. "The thing is, they way outnumber him, but they're
not too familiar with the territory, his defenses, all that." A moment as she glanced
from one to the next. "They want our help."
Matthew chuckled. "Now that's a new development."
"I know." Lara grinned. "The king can't just get away with pardoning me,
it'll seem weak to the people, he can't have that. And he can't have it seem that he's
admitting to having been wrong
So he offered me a deal. I get scrapped from the
history books and everybody on this ship is pardoned."
Catherine blinked at her. "You're kidding
"
"Nope. He wants the people to forget about me
Rumors go fast, if my name is not
mentioned again, it won't be long before everyone forgets the Curse ever existed." A
shrug. " I don't mind that one bit actually. A lot of people died under my hand.
Maybe it's better to have that bit of history erased
"
Cathy nodded softly. "Maybe
So you told him yes?"
Another shrug. "I said I had to discuss it with my crew." Then a smile crossed
her face. "But I did tell him the odds were in his favor."
Matthew shook his head with a smile. "Well, you'd better get the hell over there and
tell him we agree before he takes back his offer."
Lara stood and walked over to them with a grin. "OK
Let's do this then.
Matthew, tell Tom to send a flare up. That's the sign we agreed on
. I'll go and tell
the others. "
Matthew touched his temple. "Aye aye captain." He stated cheerfully, before
striding out of the room.
Cathy watched him go, then stood herself and joined the captain towards the deck. "I
still can't believe it."
Lara sighed contently. "Me neither."
"You sure this isn't some trick?"
Lara shrugged. "Not really. But his story is pretty convincing. And it's either
believing this, or being keelhauled. I think I picked the better deal."
"I think so too." Cathy smiled as they excited the cabin and walked onto the
deck, facing hundreds of questioning eyes.
Catherine watched the commotion on the deck from her spot on the bough. The soldiers
that were still alive had been taken downstairs and were locked up. Now the deck was full
of people trying to find a spot to sleep in. Some of the sailors had switched places with
their new friends to provide a night of matrassed comfort for them. Lara had offered up
her room as well, but everybody had denied politely, seeing the captains battered state.
The large gash on her forehead was quite evident and the captain had retreated to her room
to stitch the wound up. Too late, she'd stated before walking off, it would leave an ugly
scar now. But at least this one would remind her of good memories, she'd added then, with
a twinkle in her eyes. Cathy smiled as she turned and glanced out at the shore, leafs
barely seen blowing in the shadows. This was her new home now, she realized. She could go
back to England, in theory, but in her heart she knew she'd never survive such a journey
again. It would take off another year of her life
It was a strange thought, as she
realized she would never see her mother again, or her brothers
Her house, the street
they'd lived in
Strange to think about how far away they were now, miles and miles
away, on the other side of the world
She glanced around again, breathing in the cold
but fresh smell of the night's air. A nice part of the world though, she told herself
quietly as she gazed up at the star filled sky, finding patterns she'd never seen
before.
Lara turned as the door was pushed open and Cathy walked in, closing the door behind her.
The girl turned to face her, chuckling at her stitching and her grim look.
"It's not funny." The captain replied grumpily, shooting herself a look in the
mirror, the stitching standing out starkly against her skin. "I look like bloody
Frankenstein."
Cathy laughed, stepping closer. "Vanity does nothing for you, Lara."
"I am not vain!" The captain shot back indignantly. "It's
just
"
"Don't worry about it." Cathy chuckled, seating herself in the captain's
deckchair. "It'll look macho at that captain's meeting you have to attend tomorrow.
You'll have a tough story to tell the others."
"I didn't watch my back and got attacked. Yeah, great story."
"But you won." Cathy corrected, spinning around in the chair. "That's quite
something you know
" She stopped and looked up at her friend. "How are you
feeling otherwise? Did you clean out those other wounds?"
"Yes mom." Lara joked, rolling her eyes at the girl. " It's fine,
really
They're healing quite nicely actually
"
Cathy smiled at her, leaning back in the chair. "Good."
Lara smiled back, then walked over to her bed, ripping of the sheets. "OK, I'm gonna
burn these now." She sniffed the sheets, then wrinkled her nose.
"Bweh."
The blond woman behind her laughed, as Lara walked over to the door and deposited the
bundle outside, taking a new set of sheets out of one of the chests next to her desk and
tossing them on the bed. "You up for a nightcap?"
"That depends on what a nightcap is." Cathy returned, never having heard of the
word.
Lara chuckled, walking over to her desk and pulling open a drawer, then taking out a full
bottle of red wine and placing it on the wooden surface. "This is a
nightcap."
"No, this is a bottle of wine." Cathy countered. "And I've never actually
had any wine before, so I'm not sure if that's a good idea
"
Lara lifted an eyebrow. "Never?" The girl shook her head. "It's about time
you started then." The captain grinned and placed a glass in front of her. "Just
try a sip, if you don't like it, I'll get you some water."
"OK." Cathy shrugged, watching Lara pour a bit of the red liquid into her glass.
She reached out and lifted the glass, swiveling the wine around a bit before taking a
tentative sip. "Hmmm
" She considered for a moment, tasting the wine.
"That's quite nice actually. Makes you all warm inside." She then stated,
lifting the glass again and draining the rest of it's contents.
"Whoa, hey, don't do that
" Lara warned her, hastily taking the glass from
her.
"Why? I.." Cathy blinked as the wave of alcohol reached her brain. "Oh
oh
"
Lara chuckled. "You're supposed to sip it."
Cathy shook her head, trying to clear her mind. "You know, I've noticed you always
tell me these things AFTER I've actually done something stupid
"
Another chuckle as Lara settled back in her chair, sipping her wine before placing her
glass back on the desk. "Sorry, I'll try to read your mind from now on, so I can warn
you beforehand, OK?"
"OK." Cathy agreed cheerfully, as she reached for the bottle and poured herself
another glassful.
"Hey, easy on that, OK? I don't wanna have to carry you off afterwards
"
Cathy shrugged. "You've done it before."
The captain shook her head, but refrained from comment. She did however put the cork back
into the
bottle, and hid it behind the desk
Just in case
"Well." Cathy started conversationally, supporting her head on her hands as she
leaned over the table. "I think I can consider this the weirdest day of my life so
far."
Lara chuckled. "Now what makes you say that?"
"Oh, I don't know..." The girl shrugged. "Maybe the smacking down armed
English soldiers early in the morning that clued me in
or clubbing you down with a
branch
"
"Oh yeah, I remember that bit." Lara muttered, rubbing the bump on the back of
her head.
"Or maybe it was riding onto a beach on horseback and being surrounded by guys with
guns
"Cathy continued. "That never seemed to happen back home either
You know, I think you attract misfortune
"
"Me?" Lara pointed a thumb at herself. "Hey, I never got into half this
much trouble until you came along, you know?"
"You saying it's my fault?" Cathy raised an eyebrow at the dark haired woman.
"Oh come on, what could an innocent little city dweller like me have
done?"
"Now, who was the one that jumped off the boat again?"
"I didn't jump." Cathy told her sternly. "I washed. Besides, that was
because of the storm, the weather, that had nothing to do with me."
"Right." Lara muttered, watching Catherine drip the last few drops of her second
glass into her mouth. "I think it's about time to turn in."
Catherine considered this for a moment, then suppressed a yawn. "Right, that might be
a good idea." She stated. "I'll see you tomorrow then. I'll have to get my
blanket and.." She stood, then grabbed onto the table for support.
"Whoa
"
Lara quickly reached out and took hold of her arm. "I warned ya." She chuckled,
getting an annoyed look from Catherine. "Well, I did
"
"Hmm.." Cathy muttered, shaking her head. "Hey, did you know the boat was
spinning?" She then informed the captain. "That's good, maybe it'll compensate
for the motion of the waves." She reasoned, taking a step forward and immediately
stumbling back into Lara's arms. "And maybe not."
Lara shook her head softly, then guided the girl over to her bed. "You just get some
sleep here, OK?"
She stated, seating the girl on the bed's surface.
"No, I'll be fine, I should
" She stated, getting up only to be pushed down
again.
"You should get some sleep." Lara stated, before walking over to her side of the
bed. "And I promised you a bed to sleep in tonight, right? You don't wanna make me
break my promises, now do ya?"
Cathy considered this for a moment, then shook her head. "Nope." She said,
starting to pull off her slippers. "Wouldn't want that." She slipped out of her
dress then slid under the sheets. Happily she pillowed her head on the soft feathery
surface of her pillow, watching Lara blow out the candle on the desk and then hearing the
captain walk back.
She looked up at the ceiling quietly, watching the waves play with the moonlight on the
wooden panels. "You know, Lara?"
"Hmmm?" Came the sleepy grunt from beside her.
"I'm starting to like the sea a bit
You know why?"
A sigh "Why?"
"It's nice like this at night
Sort of like a cradle, rocking you to sleep
You know, I remember
"
"Catherine." Lara interrupted. "You know why I like the sea?"
Cathy cocked her head. "Why?"
"Cause it's nice and quiet at night."
"Cause it's
? Oh
" Cathy tapped her finger against her temple.
"Gotcha."
"Good." Lara muttered, turning to lay on her other side. "Night
Catherine."
"Sweet dreams." Cathy said back, sliding a bit closer and touching the captain's
arm.
A moment of hesitation, then the arm lifted and wrapped around her shoulders, pulling her
closer. "I will." Came the burred response.
Cathy smiled as she snuggled closer into her new favorite spot. "Yeah, me
too."
Lara tied the cloak around her neck as she stepped closer to the railing.
"Matthew, you ready?"
"Absolutely." Her second in command stated, straightening his shirt.
"Mary'll be up in a minute. I told her to drop all the weaponry."
Lara chuckled. "She must feel horrible now. I don't think she and her saber have ever
been separated."
"I could say the same about you." Matthew grinned.
"Nah." Lara waved him off. "I'm a true pacifist, you know that."
"Right." Matthew laughed, then hopped down and into the small rowboat.
Mary came strolling up. Lara gave her look, then extended a hand and raised an eyebrow at
the woman. Mary rolled her eyes, then flapped open the her vest and pulled out the pistol,
handing it to Lara with a grim look on her face.
"And how about that knife?"
Mary threw up her hands. "Look, capt'n, it's well hidden in my boot. They won't see
it and I'll feel a whole lot better."
Lara shook her head at her, but smiled. "Oh all right
" She leaned closer.
"As long as you don't tell Matthew anything about the dagger hidden up my sleeve,
OK?"
Mary laughed softly, patting the captain on the back. "Gotcha." She stated,
before lowering herself into the rowboat and seated herself behind the oars.
"Tom?" Lara motioned the skipper forward. "You're in command now, OK. If
anything does go wrong, I want you to get the hell out of here, anyway you can. Any signs
of trouble and you start rowing people ashore, dig?"
"Aye aye, cap." Tom nodded at her. "And good luck."
Lara smiled. "Thanks Tommy. See ya in a bit, OK?" She stated, before lowering
herself down the ropes. She pushed the boat off as Mary started rowing, then seated
herself and watched quietly as they neared the English ships.
Later that morning Catherine blinked open her eyes. She rubbed the sleep out of her eyes,
glancing around her for a moment at the empty bed and room. She frowned, then sat up.
"Ugh." Instinctively she grasped onto her head, trying to stop it's painful
throbbing. "Ouch." She sat silently for a few moments, as her headache eased,
then stood. She picked a wooden cup off Lara's desk and dipped it into the barrel of
water, taking a sip of the cold liquid. A look out the window showed they were still
anchored in the small alcove. She could just see the sun out the window if she pressed
against the glass and looked up, meaning it had almost reached it's zenith. Lara had let
her sleep in. She quietly shook her head at the absent captain, then walked back over to
the bed, stepping over the dress she'd dropped beside the bed.
Dressing up didn't seem appropriate though, and since she had no other clothes she walked
over to a pile of Lara's neatly folded shirts and pulled one over her head. She regarded
herself in the mirror for a moment, then laughed at her reflection. The shirt reached down
to her knees, the sleeves dangling halfway down her upper arms. "I don't think
this'll be a fashion trend, Catherine." She informed herself with a chuckle, then
fished around in one of the chests, finally finding one of Lara's belts and tying it
around her waist.
"Tom?"
The skipper looked up at the sound of the familiar voice. "Well, g'morning Cat."
He smiled at her as the girl stepped up the stairs to where he was standing. "Lovely
outfit ya got there."
Catherine grinned back at him. "Well, it was either this or wearing the salty rags
I've had on for the last year or so, I figured this'd be more comfortable."
"Right you are." Tom smiled at her. "Captain's gone over yonder." He
stated, pointing at the three English ships clustered together.
"Thought as much. I'm not happy about her letting me sleep in
I wanted to see
her off
"
"It was a long day yesterday, Cat. You deserved some sleep." The skipper
shrugged.
Catherine leaned both hands on the railing, gazing at the ships in the distance. "Do
you think this is a hoax, Tom?"
Tom glanced at her for a moment, then shrugged. "Can't say. Don't think so
They
have the force to easily overpower us. We're no match for them and they know it. If they
wanted us dead, we'd be dead now
"
Catherine nodded quietly. "I guess
" She muttered, then turned to face the
skipper. "Is there anything I can do this morning? I know I'm not much of a sailor,
but I'd like to make myself useful."
Tom shrugged. "Not really. Everybody's already been put to work, making repairs and
stuff, so that's all taken care of
" A moment of thought, then suddenly loud
yelling erupted from the kitchen below them and moments later a bunch of fish were
launched onto the deck. Tom watched the spectacle, then scratched his neck and sheepishly
grinned at Catherine. "How good are you at cooking fish?"
"I ain't doing it."
"Ow, come on Cookie."
"Nope." The shorty, chubby, dark skinned woman crossed her arms. "And no
nagging from you is gonna get anything done, Tommy. You just send some fellows out to
catch me some of those hopping thingies or something or other. I've had it with these
blasted fish!"
"Calm down, girl, calm down." The skipper lifted his hands in defense. "I'm
sorry about the fish, Cookie, but you know how lousy we are at catching meat, right?"
"Good for nothing sailors." Cookie muttered, glowering at him.
"I'm just here to tell you you can take the day off. Catherine here will take over
for ya."
Cathy stepped from behind Tom's sturdy form, shyly wiggling her fingers at the cook.
"Hi."
The woman eyed her for a moment, then raised an eyebrow at the skipper. "That little
things gonna cook for all of yous?"
"Yup."
Cookie rolled her eyes. "Yeah right. Well, I'm telling ya Tommy, I'm not gonna leave
my kitchen in the hands of the ignorant. I'm staying right here
" She gave
Catherine another look. "She can help me though."
"Yippee." Catherine muttered under her breath, making Tom chuckle.
"Thanks Cookie." He smiled at the cook, then turned to Catherine and patted her
on the shoulder. "Good luck."
"So you're the little thing the captain saved?"
Catherine looked up at the woman, who had walked back to her stove and was stirring in a
large black pot. "Yes, that's me."
"Thought as much." Cookie nodded. "Pass me the salt."
Cathy glanced around the room, spotting the salt, then handing it over hastily.
"Here."
The woman took it, then shook the small container above the pot, stirring some more.
"So you're the one who stirred up all this commotion too? Pepper."
Cathy handed her a wooden device and nodded. "I guess, yeah
I didn't mean
to
"
"Nah, it's a good thing ya did." Cookie informed her, without looking up.
"These here people were ready for some change. Here, stir this." She handed the
wooden spoon to Cathy, then walked to the small table and picked the large cooking knife
off it's surface. "Lara's a nice kid, but she's stubborn as hell."
Cathy chuckled, stirring the soupy substance in the pan. "I'll second that. She got
attacked by this big cat a couple of days back, but she wouldn't even let me look at the
wounds. Said they were just scratches."
Cookie snorted. "Oh yeah, that's Lara all right. She should've brought the stupid
beast along though, we'd finally have a decent meal here."
"Do you really hate fish that much?"
Cookie glanced up. "Girl, there are only so many things you can do with these here
fishies." She stated, cutting the head off one of the sea creatures with one single
snap of her knife. "And every single night these blasted beasts are on the menu. It
would be nice to just have some steak, once a month or so, ya know?"
"See your point." Catherine nodded quietly. "Couldn't you keep chickens on
here or something? You'd have eggs and meat
And they only eat grains and stuff, not
too hard to carry along
"
"Chickens
" Cookie fell quiet for a moment, considering this. She drummed
her fingers on the table's wooden surface. "Ya know kid, that's not a bad idea
Lara's gonna object though."
"Why?"
"Oh, the brat'll find something to nag about. They'll make a mess out of her ship,
they'll make too much noise
"
Catherine chuckled. "How do you just get away with calling her a brat? I don't think
anybody else on this boat would even dare call her anything but captain."
Cookie laughed as she walked over to the stirring girl, dumping some chopped up fish
pieces into the soup. "You've got lots to learn, kiddo." She grinned. "I
can say anything 'bout anybody cause they need me. Who's gonna cook their stinking fish
otherwise? Being a cook puts ya in a privileged position, honey, remember that. Besides, I
like the brat and she knows it
" She cleaned her hands off on her apron.
"But don't you go atelling her I said that, y'hear?"
Cathy smiled. "Not a word from me, I swear."
"Good." The cook nodded, then dipped a spoon in the soup and tasted the mixture.
"Hmm
" She muttered, then handed the spoon to Catherine. "What do ya
think?"
The girl sipped the soup, then swallowed. "Not bad
A bit more salt
maybe
"
"That's what I was thinking." Cookie grinned, then patted Cathy on the back.
"You're not bad kid, I'll make a chef out of you yet
"
"Well, if there's gonna be a battle, it's gonna be here." Lara pointed at a
spot on the map, that was lying in the center of the oval shaped table they were sitting
around. "He's got a fortress placed on one of the islands here. Some cannons and
stuff. The soldiers that aren't on the boats will be here." She pointed at the docks
on the western part of the alcove Port Jackson was nestled in.
"How many ships does this guy have?" An older captain regarded her with some
suspicion. "They told us he has seven battle ships or so."
"Six now." Lara grinned. "He's got two more ships, but they sailed out a
while ago, on exploration. I doubt they're back yet."
Another younger captain by the name of Christopher leaned back in his chair. "This
shouldn't be too hard then. We've got ten ships. We can just power in
there
"
Kennard shook his head. "I bet he's got some surprises waiting for us when we get
there."
"He'll probably try to circle us." Matthew added, ignoring the looks he was
getting from some of the Englishmen. "Push us into here, so he can use the cannons on
the mainland."
"I agree." Kennard stated. "We should try to take those out as fast as
possible."
"The bigger boats could draw some of the fire." Christopher added. "Then
the smaller ones can sail to shore and take care of the men there."
Approving mutters and nods around the table.
"Very well." The young admiral stated, standing up, soon followed by the other
captains. "We'll work out the details as we sail closer. Dismissed."
Everybody walked out, leaving only Lara and himself. "I'm sorry about them."
Kennard stated, walking closer to the captain. "You have to understand they've seen
you as an enemy for a long time."
"That goes both ways." Lara retorted simply.
The admiral smiled. "I guess it does." He straightened his jacket. "I'd
like you to take command of that vessel you captured. It's better equipped than your ship
is. Besides, I don't think we want to sail all those people on there into a battle such as
this one. I'd rather have them stay back on your ship until everything is taken care
off."
"Agreed." Lara nodded, walking outside. "I'll make sure we're ready to sail
tomorrow morning."
"Excellent." Another smile. "Thank you for your help."
"My pleasure." The captain inclined her head towards him, then grabbed hold of
the rope ladder and lowered herself down into the small rowboat.
"Ignorant pieces of squid." Mary muttered as they rowed out of hearing range.
"I was this close to turning them into shish kebab, I tell ya." The woman
stated, holding her thumb and index finger mere millimeters apart.
Matthew pulled on the oars. "Right there with ya."
Lara grinned, leaning back in the boat. "We didn't kill them, they didn't kill
us
I think it went quite well
"
"Aw, come on capt'n, they were treating us like pieces of trash."
Lara shrugged. "They hate us just as much as we hate them. But we need each other
now, that's all there is to it."
"Well, I guess that Kennard fellow is pretty much OK." Matthew muttered, then
pulled in the oars and tossed the rope that was rolled up at his feet up over the railing
of their ship. "Yo Tommy!"
Moments later Tom poked his head over the edge of the ship, before tossing down the
ladder. "G'day to y'all." He greeted them cheerfully as Lara pulled herself up.
"How did it go Cap?"
"Not too bad." The captain informed him as she swung her leg over the railing.
"How'd it go here?"
"Made some last repairs. We moved some of our stuff over to the Governor's former
boat, like you said. Most of the guys are settled in."
"Perfect." Lara muttered absently as she let her eyes drift over the deck.
Tom watched her for a moment, then grinned. "She's not on deck captain. She wanted to
help out so I send her down to Cookie's
"
Lara's eyes widened. "You did what? What did you want to do, kill the
girl?"
"Oh, she's quite alive, cap, really." Tom chuckled. "I'll go move my stuff
now."
The captain gave him a suspicious look, then shook her head and wandered over to one of
the doors, pulling it open and descended the few steps down to the kitchen.
Voices drifted up as she walked closer. "Oh, you should've seen her face when she
bit into that. Eyes almost popped out of her skull." A chuckle. "But she didn't
say a word and ate the whole lot
"
More laughter as Lara took the last few steps down and saw two woman sitting at the table,
facing each other.
She cleared her throat, then watched as green eyes lifted, then smiled. "Oh hi. We
were just talking about you."
"So I gathered." Lara drawled, stepping closer, before dropping her voice.
"And if you ever try to dump chili peppers into my food, I'll have to punish you
severely, got it?"
"Oh shut it, squirt." Cookie pointed a knife at her as she paused in skinning
her apple. "You can save that intimidation stuff for the sailor boys, OK?"
"Here here." Cathy added with a grin.
Lara lifted an eyebrow. "What are you trying to do Cookie? Start a mutiny from the
galley here?"
"Now there's a thought." The cook laughed. "Don't worry, captain, just
exchanging words with the kid here."
"I didn't realize you were close." Lara crossed her arms an glared at the
two.
"Recent development." Cathy grinned at her.
Cookie chuckled. "You can fish the sorts of her out of the sea anytime, Lara. Much
more useful than those damned fish of yours."
Lara merely rolled her eyes at the woman.
"And don't you start with them eyes, young lady." The cook warned her in a
dangerous tone. She gave Cathy a nudge. "You go on, kid. Make sure she behaves, OK?
If she gives ya any trouble you know where to come, eh?"
"Absolutely." The girl gave the woman a smile. "Thanks. I'll be back for
diner, OK?"
"You'd better be." Cookie warned her with a glint in her eyes. "Now shoo,
the both of ya, I've got miracles to perform."
Catherine chuckled as she exited the kitchen behind Lara. "She's so
funny."
"Funny?" The captain gave her an outraged look. "She's hell on wheels,
that's what she is."
"Nah, she's sweet." Cathy objected. "She tells the best stories
too."
"Don't you go spreading those, you hear? I've got a reputation to
maintain."
Catherine giggled. "Well, Lara, I hate to tell you, but after that story about you
being chased around the boat by a pair of jellyfish, your rep is in shatters."
"Oh great
" Lara muttered, pushing open the door to her room and letting
Cathy enter before her. "She just had to tell that one, didn't she?"
"It was funny."
"No, it was not. Have you ever been stung by one of those? Hurts like
hell
"
"You poor thing." Cathy drawled, chuckling as Lara rolled her eyes. "How
are your 'scratches' doing by the way?"
Lara sighed as she sat down, then untied the bandana she'd been wearing and revealed the
stitching on her forehead.
"It's a bit swollen." Cathy stated, softly touching the pink skin.
Lara regarded the wound in the mirror for a moment. "It'll need new stitching."
She commented, then pulled the dagger out of a sleeve of her shirt. She lifted it to cut
through the rope, but it was taken from her hands before she could even start.
"Let me do that." Catherine stated, then softly slid the blade through the first
bit of rope. Lara flinched as it snapped open, but stayed still as Catherine did her work.
"There." She stated, pulling the last bit of rope from the captain's skin. She
glanced down at the tense features. "You OK?"
Lara managed a smile. "Fine." She gritted her teeth as Catherine cleaned the
wound.
"Do you want to stitch yourself? I know you get a little skittish when people come at
you with sharp pointy things."
Lara chuckled, then smiled up at the girl. "I don't think you can lethally wound me
with a needle." A grin. "Go on, I trust you."
The girl smiled back at her gratefully and leaned closer, gently puncturing the skin just
under the wound. A few more precise movements, then Cathy softly pulled the rope tight,
pulling the skin closer together.
"Done." She stated softly, cutting off the leftover string.
"Thanks." Lara smiled. "You're really good at that, you know? You've got
gentle hands."
Cathy shyly looked down at her as she cleaned the last bits of blood of the captain's
forehead. "Thank you." A shrug. "I just had lots of practice."
Lara raised an eyebrow at her. "How so?"
"I have two brothers."
The captain chuckled. "I knew siblings had to be handy for something." She stood
and stretched. "You up for some lunch?"
"I've had some. But I'll keep you company." Cathy stated as she put the needle
and thread into one of the drawers. "Hope you like fish soup."
"As long as it's digestible." Lara muttered, opening the door and letting Cathy
pass before her.
"Hmm." Lara swallowed. "Hey, this isn't bad."
"Of course it isn't." Cathy grinned, leaning back against the side of the
boat.
"Oh, aren't we confident." The captain lifted another spoonful of soup.
"Oh, by the way, my compliments on your charming outfit."
Cathy chuckled. "Sorry. There was just nothing else to wear, so I
"
Lara quickly waved her off. "'s Okay, don't worry 'bout it. But I think we'll have to
look out for something a little less revealing. You're gonna catch a cold this way."
Cathy shrugged. "I've worn less in the cold London winters. I think I can handle
this."
"Well, I'm not taking any chances." Lara stated, waving a spoon at her.
"I'll have a talk with Mary. She's about your size I think
"
"Oh, I don't wanna be a bother, I mean
"
"Nonsense." Lara fished the last bit of soup out of her bowl, then looked up and
spotted the crewmember in question. "Hey Mary!"
Brown eyes turned her way, then the young woman walked over. "Captain?"
"See if you can fit Catherine here into some of your old clothes, OK?"
Mary shot a sideways glance at the girl, then looked back up at Lara. "Aye
captain."
"Good." Lara gave Catherine a pat on the back. "You go on, I'll meet up
with you later."
"Thanks for helping me out on this." Catherine broke the silence, trotting
after the pacing Mary. "I really appreciate
"
"I'm just following orders."
Great
Catherine sighed as Mary pushed open the door to quarters she shared
with some of the other sailors, then walked over to one of the beds. The woman dug under
her bed, then turned and tossed some clothes at her. "Try these."
Green eyes regarded her for a moment. "I'd rather not if you're gonna hold it against
me."
Brown eyes stared back coolly. "I won't, so try 'm."
Perfect
Cathy unfolded the pair of leather pants that had been tossed at her
and tried them on. They were a bit too big, but they were comfortable nevertheless. She
untied Lara's belt and strung it through the loops on her new trousers.
"So
" She started, not looking up. "What did I do wrong?"
"Nothing
yet."
Cathy looked up in surprise, then chuckled as she unbuttoned a white shirt. "What do
you think I am, a spy?"
She heard fabric shift as Mary shrugged. "I don't know who you are." She stated
simply. "All I know is that my captain risked her neck for you twice now, even though
she knows nothing about you
" The bed creaked as the woman stood. "My job
is to protect my captain from any danger. So don't expect me to start praising your name
like the rest of these people anytime soon."
Catherine straightened her shirt, then looked up. "When will you be 'praising my
name' then?"
Mary crossed her arms. "When you die to save her life, we'll talk."
Cathy nodded. "OK
" Then she turned and headed for the door, leaving the
woman behind. "Thanks for the clothes."
Lara piled the last of her books into the wooden chest, then lifted it onto her
shoulder. She walked out of her room, then crossed the wooden plank to her new ship.
Her new room was about the same size as her old one, though the glass window looking out
over the waves was a bit smaller. She'd had Tom and the others bring her desk over, but
she'd left her bed behind, as it didn't fit through the door. How the former captain had
managed to get the bed in place remained a mystery.
She lifted the chest off her shoulder and placed it beside her desk, pulling some of the
books out and lining them up on her desk. "That'll do." She muttered, glancing
around the room. "Not perfect, but you'll do."
"Lara?"
The captain turned around to see Matthew blocking the entrance. "Sorry, just talking
to my new ship."
Matthew chuckled as he walked in, closing the door behind him. "I figured as much.
Don't feel bad, I've been giving the wheel reassuring pats, telling her she was a 'good
little ship'."
Lara laughed, settling down on the corner of her desk. "I'm glad it's not just me.
So, what's up?"
"I've just been walking around a bit, checking our status. Figured you'd want to
know."
"Do tell." Lara grinned, crossing her arms.
"We've got ten cannons. Four up on deck, on each side, and two down below. We've got
some supplies, flour, some fruits, meat..."
"Cookie'll be thrilled." Lara commented, getting a chuckle from her second in
command.
"Our good friends were also nice enough to bring along a cartload of weapons. Extra
guns, sabers, daggers
AND
" Matthew smiled. "
gold."
A dark eyebrow lifted. "You're kidding."
Matthew just shook his head.
"How much?"
"Enough to supply us with for quite some time."
A huge smile crossed the captain's face. "Excellent. I think our luck is changing
Matt."
"Who knows
"
Lara grinned, then straightened. "I want Toby and Rob to stay on the other ship. I'd
don't want them to get involved in a battle this big."
Matthew nodded. "I agree."
"I think I'll leave Parker in charge. He'll follow orders and won't do anything
foolish. Let him pick six other people."
"You think that'll be enough?"
Lara shrugged. "It'll have to be
Some of those people from the hull must have
some talent for dealing with the sailing life, he can teach them a thing or two, get them
to do some work, I don't think they'll mind."
"Some of our former captives have asked to come along. About twenty
guys
"
The captain shook her head. "No
"
"Lara, think about it." Matthew insisted. "They're strong and we could use
any hand we can get. Even if we'd only let them do some of the work on board, it'll give
some other people here time to rest and prepare
"
The captain dropped her eyes for a moment, then raised them again. "OK
But no
more than twenty. And tell them the risks that are involved before they decide,
OK?"
"You've got it." Her second in command stated.
"If they still wanna come, get them to move over any stuff they have and find them a
place to sleep."
"Aye aye." Matthew gave her a pat on the shoulder. "I'll take care of it,
no worries."
Lara stepped forward and they walked outside onto the deck. "Be sure to get some good
sleep tonight, I want you to take up day shifts from now on. I'll stay up tonight, get
into the rhythm before we leave."
"You've got it." Matthew grinned then stretched. "Well, I'd better get the
last of my stuff moved over. Talk to you later, Lara."
"Yeah." The captain watched her second in command walk out the door, then stood
herself, straightening some last things before stepping outside.
She took the few steps up to the stern. She walked over to the wheel, crossing her arms
on it's surface and glancing out over the deck. "So what are we gonna call you,
huh?" Lara murmured to the wooden surface. " 'Loyalty to England' isn't really
appropriate anymore, is it?"
Movement caught her attention and she smiled as she spotted her blond haired friend,
crossing the plank towards the new ship with wobbly steps. Green eyes glanced across the
deck, then spotted her. The girl smiled, then made her way up the stairs. "Hey."
Lara smiled back. "Hi."
"So, what do you think?" Cathy extended her arms and spun round once, showing
her new outfit from all angles.
The captain regarded her for a moment, then grinned. "Nice. Looks good on
you."
"Thanks." Catherine smiled. "So, what are you doing up here, all by
yourself?"
"Thinking
I was just trying to find a nice name for this ship, I wanna have it
changed before it sets sail."
Catherine nodded, then tapped her temple in thought as she glanced across the length of
the ship. Then her head shot up, and she regarded the captain. "Argo."
Dark brows frowned. "What?"
The green eyes dropped. "It's
My grandmother used to tell me stories, when I
was little. About people from really, really long ago
They were nice stories, about
hero's and
" A shrug. "It just seemed appropriate
But if you don't
like it, I didn't mean to
"
"Catherine." Lara interrupted her rambling with a smile. "I like it."
She grinned as the girl sheepishly glanced up at her, then looked around the ship again.
"And you're right
it seems
right, somehow."
They were both silent for a moment, standing on the deck silently, watching the sun turn a
bright red as it edged closer and closer towards the horizon.
"So." Catherine broke the silence, not looking up. "Where do you want me to
put my stuff. I mean there's not a lot to take along, but I'd like to
"
"You are not coming."
Cathy glanced up into bright blue eyes. "You're not gonna leave me here, Lara. I'm
not
"
"Don't even try, Catherine." Lara stated, circling around the girl and heading
down the stairs.
"Lara!" Cathy ran on behind her, catching up, half way down, blocking the
captain's path. "Come on, after all we've been though..."
"That's exactly why you're staying on that other ship. I'm not gonna place you in
harms way again." The captain stated, dodging the girl's form again.
"Look
" Catherine ran after her, grabbing onto her shoulder and making Lara
turn around with an annoyed look on her face. "I can be useful to you."
A dark eyebrow lifted.
"I can cook."
A sigh as Lara walked into her room. "So can I."
"Lara, Cookie told me what happened last time you tried to cook for this ship. The
crew was sick for days."
"I used some wrong herbs." Lara muttered, ruffling through some papers.
"Well, you don't want your people to get sick right before a big battle, right? And
besides, with all the planning and sailing, you won't have any time anyway,
right?"
Blue eyes glanced her way for a moment, then dropped back down.
Catherine grinned, then continued. "You could use a good cook, now that Cookie is
staying on the other ship. You'll need someone who knows the 'One hundred ways to cook
fish' manual by heart
"
A sigh, then Lara tossed up her hands, turning and glaring at the girl.
"Fine."
"Yes." Cathy muttered under her breath as the captain strode closer.
"But you're gonna have to stick to some basic rules."
Cathy shrugged. "I think I can do that."
"Rule number one." Lara lifted a finger at her. "The cook will not meddle
in the captain's business."
"I don't
." A dark eyebrow lifted and Cathy sighed. "Oh, all right,
all right."
"Rule number two: The cook will stay out of trouble and when there's fighting going
on up on deck she'll go down into the galley and stay there until all's nice and
safe."
Catherine muttered something but waved an approval.
"And last but not least, if the cook ever tries to outsmart her captain again, she'll
have to suffer severe punishment. Got it?"
A grin as the girl glanced up. "Aye aye captain. "
Lara rolled her eyes, then walked around her desk and dropped into her chair. "You
can stay here. I'll be taking the nightshift from now on so you can sleep in my
bed."
Catherine smiled at her, as Lara fidgeted with some papers, trying to look busy.
"Thank you."
Blue eyes looked up and met hers. "You're welcome."
A moment of silence, then Cathy cleared her throat. "Well, I'd
uhm
I'd
better go get my stuff
" She managed, then shuffled out of the room, leaving the
captain in silence.
Would you be careful!
Catherine rolled her eyes. Would you stop worrying, please? She dipped the
brush into the jar of paint once more, then drew another line on the boats bough.
She was sitting on a small wooden board, hanging on two ropes, jars of paint standing
beside her. Shed painted over the old letters and was now carefully edging a swirly
A on the boughs exterior.
Lara paced around on the deck of her old ship, shooting glances at the girl from time to
time. Why couldnt you let me paint the stupid letters!?
Hey, whos the artist here? Cathy turned around and gave her a look,
before turning back and starting on the r.
Youre also someone who constantly stumbles into trouble and Im sick and
tired of fishing you out of those salty waters, you hear?
Nag. Catherine muttered.
What did you say?
I said, 'naturally'.
You did not.
Did so.
Did not.
Do you really want me to repeat what I said.
Lara considered this for a moment. No.
Then shut it and let me finish.
The captain grumbled something and turned around, giving the smirking faces around her an
angry stare. Matthew strode up and leaned over the railing with a grin.
Dont you get any bright ideas. Lara gave him a suspicious look.
Me? Never. Matt looked at her innocently.
Right. The captain muttered, then watched as the paint jars were pulled up.
Catherine stood and stepped aside, balancing dangerously on the board, then pointed
proudly at her new creation. What do you think?
Lara sighed, then smiled grudgingly. Beautiful. She admitted, watching as the
swirling golden letters reflected a glimpse of the fading sunlight. Now will you
just get back up on deck?!
Sure. Cathy smiled, while two of the sailors started to pull the ropes up.
Lara shook her head and walked over their wooden bridge towards her new ship, followed by
Matthew.
Catherine pulled herself over the railing and back up on deck, wiping a few smudges of
paint from her face. Matthew grinned at her as he stepped closer. Well, youre
quite the talent, arent you? Cooking, drawing, and now painting
I have many skills. Cathy stated cheerfully.
Lara found this funny and laughed, getting a grin from Catherine. So now that the
painting is done
The captain turned to Matthew.
are we
settled?
Matthew considered the question for a moment, then nodded. Yup, I think
so.
Great. Go and see how Cookies getting along with our diner, then
Diner
Cathy clasped a hand in front of her mouth. I completely
forgot. Then she raced off towards the galley, crossing the wooden plank across the
two ships at a frightening speed.
Lara rolled her eyes, watching her go with a smile.
A knock sounded on her door and made the captain look up from the book he was reading.
Cathy poked her head around the door's edge, then smiled at her. Hey.
Lara smiled back at the girl. Hey yourself.
Got you some diner. Catherine informed her, walking in and handing the captain
a plate.
Lara took it, putting it on the desk in front of her. Thanks. She motioned the
girl into a chair across from her. Wow, no fish.
Cathy chuckled. As she balanced her own plate on her knees, poking her fork in a bit of
meat. I know. Cookie was so happy about the meat she completely forgot to be mad at
me for being late.
Lara swallowed some food down with a grin. Lucky you. You dont want to suffer
the wrath of Cookie, really.
They chewed on in silence for a while. Lara turned over a page of her book, studying the
next intently as she cleaned the last bits of food off her plate.
What are you reading? Cathy asked intrigued, placing her empty plate on the
wooden desk.
Lara looked up at her with a grin. How to become a loyal English citizen in a
hundred pages.
Cathy snorted. Youll need more than a hundred pages for that.
Hey! Lara gave her a hurt look, before letting a smile cross her face and
pushing the open book towards the girl. Some book from a new English author.
Its about a boy who looses his mother at childbirth, gets put into an orphanage and
gets in lots of trouble
He ends up stealing too. Reminded me of the good old
days. Lara chuckled, leaning back in her chair.
Sounds nice. Cathy muttered, studying the gold letters on the cover
intently.
You can read it if you want. Lara said simply, watching her.
Cathy shook her head. I cant.
A dark eyebrow raised. Why ever not?
I cant read.
You cant?
Cathy shook her head. Most people cant, you know? Reading is for the
elite.
Lara chuckled. Never knew I qualified as elite. Cathy managed a smile for her.
The captain stared at the sad eyes for another moment, then caved in helplessly.
Want me to teach you?
The green eyes across from her lit up immediately. Really? Cathy asked, eyes
sparkling.
Lara shrugged. Sure. I mean, I wont be much of a teacher or nothing. I
dont want you to get
Her sentence stopped abruptly as a kiss was placed
on her cheek, before Cathy happily started bouncing across the room.
too
excited. Lara finished, blinking.
I always wanted to learn how to read. And write. I love stories, but I always had to
wait around for someone to tell me some. It would be so great if I could read them
myself
Cathy babbled on happily, letting her hands slide over the soft covers
of Laras books. Can you teach me to read this one? She took the thickest
book out of the row and held it up.
Uhm
I
Lara shook the flow of words and events out of her head,
clearing up her foggy mind. Thats a bit hard to start with, really. She
then informed the girl. Why dont we start with the basics, OK?
Sure. Cathy agreed amiably, pulling up a chair and sitting down beside the
captain, looking up at her in expectation.
Lara shook her head with a smile, pulling a piece of paper out of a drawer and picking a
pencil off her desk. Drawing neat lines on the paper she started to print down the
alphabet, Catherine watching the black lines intently.
Wax dripped down along the side of the candle as it burned down further and further,
indicating the hours that had passed.
S
H
I
P
Ship. Cathy yawned, trailing the word with a
finger.
Exactly. Lara complimented her with a smile.
Cathy leaned her elbow on the tables surface, supporting her head. And
thats
She peered at the text. Thats cat
right? She asked, pointing at another word.
Uhuh. Lara nodded, then traced the sentence. It says: The cat
watched the fish swim in the water. See, that means fish and thats
She let her voice trail off as her eyes spotted the now sleeping form, balancing her head
on her hand.
A smile crossed the captains face, as she lifted a hand and gently pushed an errant
lock out of the girls face. You should've told me you were tired. She
informed her in a whisper, then stood with a grin. Ive carried you across half
of this world by now. She chuckled softly, then wrapped her arms around her
slumbering friend. Catherine mumbled something inaudible into her shoulder, remaining fast
asleep.
Lara walked over to her bed and placed the sleeping girl on its surface, gently tucking up
the covers around her body. Then she turned back to her desk, pulling open the bottom
drawer and taking out a bottle of red wine. She took a glass off a shelve, then walked
towards the door, closing it softly behind her.
The deck was deserted and dark, only the moonlight supplying some illumination. Lara found
her way up to the stern, and settled down against the back railing with a sigh. She pulled
the cork out of the bottle, then poured some of the red liquid into her glass. She took a
sip, letting the wine roll around din her mouth before swallowing it down. The wind
stirred up and circled around her, the cold pulling at the drowsiness that was trying to
get her to sleep. She took another sip of wine, letting it warm her from within as she
took a deep breath of the salty air.
Sydney was close now and with that her newfound freedom. No more raids, no more angry
stares from convicts, no more running from the law. It would be hard with their former
means of income gone and some of her crew would probably leave her, now that there was no
need to run from the English any more. But theyd make it, they were survivors after
all. Shed been wanting to explore this region for some time now, stories of islands
in the south peeking her curiosity. So things would be great, really. Right?
Right
Lara swallowed, staring at the shadows the moonlight was casting across the deck. Then why
did she want nothing more then to turn her ship around and sail in the complete opposite
direction? Head out to the most disserted part of the oceans and never return to land
again?
Lara chuckled self depreciatively, shaking her head. Oh shut it. You know exactly
why
She informed herself sternly, leaning back and looking up at the star
filled sky.
Catherine.
When theyd reach Port Jackson, Catherine would stay there and shed leave. Lara
had no illusions about that. She was a sailor, the girl was a land lover
Thats
the way things were
But why exactly did that bother her so much? After all, shed known the girl for
what? A week?
The captain pulled a knee up and wrapped an arm around it, balancing her glass on the
surface.
Of course the girld turned out to be a good friend and of course she wouldnt
like to see that leave, but this
This went far deeper somehow
She'd never been
one to make friends easily, yet she'd let this young convict in without even thinking. She
didn't want her to leave...
Lara sighed, shaking her head at herself. She not some sort of puppy Lara, you
cant just keep her. The captain told herself. Shell stay in Sydney
and be better off for it. What would she be doing hanging around a grumpy old sailor like
you for anyway, huh? She leaned back, draining the last bit of wine from her cup.
Quietly she listened to the soft hissing of the waves rushing onto the beach, letting it
sooth her aching soul.
Hey.
Cathy tiredly peered open her eyes. Huh?
Breakfast time, miss Cook.
Catherine grunted, then pulled herself upright, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes. A look
outside showed a still, black world. Its still dark out.
Yes it is. Lara agreed simply, closing the curtains so it would stay that
way.
Cathy sighed again, then swung her legs our from under the covers and started to get
dressed. So what do you usually have for breakfast around here? Lemme guess, it
includes... fish
?
Lara chuckled, Usually, yeah. Sometimes bread or cereal if we have it available.
Biscuits or something of the sort
Biscuits for breakfast?
The captain shrugged. They last real long. We can keep m lying around for ages
before they spoil
Cathy winced. Spare me the details, please. Her motions stopped for a moment,
then she gave the captain an apologetic look. I fell asleep on you last night,
didnt I?
Lara grinned at her, nodding.
Lara, Im so sorry, I didnt mean
Dont worry about it. The captain shook her off. You were tired, I
shouldnt have pushed you so long
You didnt push me
Cathy retorted. I just really want to
learn and
But I guess I cant learn to read in a night, can I?
Nope. Lara agreed, then she shooed the girl out. Now you go and make
breakfast, or youll have Matthew coming after you.
Oh, now thats scary. Cathy chuckled, then hastily left the room, heading
for the galley.
Not long after a familiar knock sounded and Lara pulled herself up in bed. Yes,
Catherine?
Cathy poked her head around the door. Howd you know it was me?
No one else would be foolish enough to disturb me when Im trying to
sleep. Lara grumbled, then grinned.
Watch it captain. If you keep threatening me like that you wont get your
breakfast. Cathy pointed a finger at her, then walked closer to the bed, balancing a
tray.
In that case I take everything back. The captain cheerfully informed her.
Breakfast in bed. Now this is service.
Cathy laughed, placing the tray into her friend's lap. Here you go.
Thanks. Lara studied the content of her breakfast more closely. Hey,
wheres my fish?
Another laugh as the girl pointed at a bowl of soup. Really small cut bits in the
soup. She informed her captain. Hope you like it.
Lara lifted a spoon to her mouth and tasted. Yup, I do. She stated, getting a
beaming smile in return. Another spoonful, then she waved the piece of cutlery at the girl
in warning. Now dont you go causing any trouble today, you hear?
Me? Cathy pointed a thumb at her chest innocently. Cause
trouble?
The captain rolled her eyes at her. Yeah you. Just listen to Matthew today, OK? And
dont go jumping overboard or something.
Aye captain. Cathy saluted in an over exaggerated manner, before turning back
towards the door, wiggling her fingers at the captain a she reached the doorway.
Sleep well, Lara.
Behave! Lara called after her, then chuckled as Cathy stuck her tongue out at
her before closing the door behind her.
"Hey there lass."
Cathy looked up and beamed a smile at John, who walked towards her. "Hi John. How's
things?"
"Pretty nice after that healthy breakfast of yers." The older man informed her
cheerfully, patting her shoulder.
"Glad you liked it." Cathy grinned at him as they walked along the deck.
"So, what's your job for the day?"
"I'm making fishnets." John informed her proudly, showing her his newest
creation. "Just tying a bunch of knots in pieces of rope
Richie's been working
on them sails
Been hit by one of those beams twice now. He's got a bump on his head
the size of this here ocean."
Cathy tried to repress a giggle, wrapping an hand over her mouth. "Poor
guy
"
"Ya make it sound so convincing
" John chuckled, then looked up as a motion
behind them caught his attention. "G'day Mr. Matthew."
Matthew nodded at them politely. "John. Catherine." He smiled at the girl.
"Sleep well?"
"Quite." Cathy informed him with a grin, then crossed her arms over her chest.
"So
what do you want me to do?"
The second in command raised an eyebrow. "Want you to do? You cook, right?"
Cathy rolled her eyes. "I don't wanna be locked in that galley all day
I mean,
I can do stuff around here, right? Tie off some ropes, help John here with those
nets
?"
Matthew shook his head. "You do realise that if you get into any trouble Lara's gonna
kill me, right?"
The girl tossed up her hands in despair. "Why does everybody think I'll get in
trouble?"
Matthew scratched his jaw, avoiding her eyes. John cleared his throat.
Cathy looked from one to the other, then shook her head and turned on her heels, walking
towards the galley.
Matthew suppressed a laugh, then ran after her catching up. "Just kidding. I think I
can find something for you to do
"
Cathy turned and looked up at him. "Really?"
"You bet. I'll make a sailor out of you yet, miss Catherine."
Cathy chuckled, then followed Matt as he walked up to the stern.
Lara's internal clock went off right on schedule and with a yawn the captain pushed
herself upright. A reddish glow found it's way past her curtains. Lara stretched, then
swung her legs off the bed and stood, walking towards the chair she'd laid her clothes
over. She dressed, pulling on her boots last before she stood and walked towards the door.
Voices sounded from outside. People laughing and talking. Lara pushed open the door,
making her way onto the deck.
"Lara!"
The captain smiled at the familiar voice, then suddenly halted as she realised exactly
what direction it had been coming from. Slowly she let her eyes drift up until she spotted
a cheerfully waving form high up in the crow's nest, dangling over the edge
dangerously.
"Catherine! I told you not to get into trouble!"
"Do I look like I'm in trouble?" Cathy yelled back cheerfully.
"Yes you do. You have the potential to fall 50 feet. Now get the Hell down
here!" Lara stated, pointing at the deck for emphasis.
"Make me."
Lara took a deep breath, then released it. "What did you say?"
"Make me." Cathy chuckled wickedly, enjoying her teasing.
"Why you little
"
Matthew, seeing the risk of the situation escalating, hastily ran up, grabbing onto Lara's
shoulders. "Relax. Calm yourself. Deep breaths."
Lara shot him an icy stare and he hastily diverted his eyes to glance up at Catherine, who
was leaning across the crow's nest. "Catherine. Would you PLEASE come down here
now?"
Even from the long distance Cathy's flashy smile was obvious. "Sure, Mr
Matthew." She answered sweetly, then made her way down the ropes, not doing too bad
of a job at it really and managing to find her way down to the deck.
Lara shook her head, then turned to Matthew, who was standing beside her. "You let
her go up there?!"
"Well, I didn't actually let her
the girl sort of has a mind of her own, you
see
" Piercing blue eyes scrutinised him and he sighed, tossing up his hands.
"What was I to do Lara, pin the girl down?"
"Would you stop picking on Matthew
?"
Lara turned to find the girl in question standing behind her.
"It was my fault. I went up there against his orders. I was bad." Cathy
admitted, easily keeping eye contact with the captain.
Lara sighed, then dropped her head. "All right, all right
Whatever
"
Cathy smiled happily, then took hold of the captains arm, tugging her along. "Tom has
been teaching me how to sail. I took the wheel today."
"How far are we off course?" Lara asked in a low voice to the quietly following
Matthew, who chuckled as the captain got an angry stare from frowned green eyes for her
comment.
"I made a fishing net too and look
" She tugged Lara along the last bit
towards the stern, then rummaged between some of the ropes that were lying around and
extricated a folded piece of paper, handing it proudly to the captain.
Lara unfolded it, then stared at the shaky letters with a smile. "You wrote your
name
"
"Good huh?" Cathy confirmed proudly. "Matthew helped a bit with the
spelling. I forgot the h." She chatted along, pointing at the letter slightly
elevated and squished in between the 't' and 'e'. I wrote your name too
Yours was
easier, you have better letters."
"Better letters huh?" Lara smiled as she turned over the page and stared at her
own name, the first L being more a drawing than a letter. "Nice."
"You can keep it."
A dark eyebrow raised.
"You have to save it for later, when I'm a really famous writer. You'll have my first
words, that'll be worth loads of money then
"
"Right
." Lara drawled with a grin, then folded the paper back up, sticking
it into a pocket. "Well, thank you for this literary treasure, miss Dickens."
"You're welcome." Cathy replied cheerfully, then took off and bounded down the
stairs again. "Have to go get diner." She called up as an afterthought before
ducking down the hall into the galley.
Matthew chuckled as he watched her go. "Sometimes I can't believe that's the
shattered figure you picked off that deck about a week ago, Lara." He commented to
the captain as he tapped Tom on the shoulder and took the wheel from him, adjusting course
slightly to follow the group of English ships sailing in front of them.
"Me neither." Lara agreed, leaning against the mast and watching the movement on
deck quietly. "It's good though. With that attitude of hers she'll survive in Sydney
easily."
Matthew glanced at her, remaining silent for a few moments. "It's gonna be strange
when this is over. You know, without
" He indicated the deck and it's people.
"
all this."
The captain nodded her head. "Yeah, I know." A pause. "I was thinking about
that last night
I
I wanna keep on sailing, I don't think I can handle settling
down in any one place
"
Matthew looked up and smiled at her. "I'm glad we agree on that then."
Lara smiled back at him, obviously relieved. "You think we'll have many left when we
sail from the Port?"
Matthew shrugged. "Enough, I think
"
"Good
I was thinking about sailing south a bit, explore for a while
"
"I'd like that." Her second in command agreed, gazing out across the sea
quietly. "They say the southern islands are very beautiful and mostly uncharted
Should provide a nice challenge."
"Yeah
" Lara said softly, letting out a breath. "Should be fun."
Another moment of silence, then Lara patted Matthew's shoulder. "I'll go get some
diner, then come up here and relieve you." She stated, before heading down the
stairs.
"Take your time." Matthew called after her, before returning his attention to
the sea ahead.
The steps coming down the steps alerted her of another presence and Cathy looked up to
see her captain walk down into the galley. "Hey there."
"What's cooking?" Lara asked, sniffing appreciatively. "Smells good."
"Thanks. Here, try some." Catherine lifted up a spoon with some sort of stew on
it and extended it to her friend. Lara walked closer, then closer her mouth over the spoon
and tasted. "Nice. Is there fish in here?"
"Yup, but it's well hidden by a zillion herbs." Cathy cheerfully informed her,
stirring her creation. "Hand me a bowl, will ya?"
Lara let her eyes slide across the room, finally spotting the required object and handing
it over. Cathy added some last herbs, then filled the bowl and handed it back to the
captain. "There ya go."
"Thanks." Lara took the offering and then found a spot on the small kitchen
table. "So, you had a good day today, huh?"
"Oh yeah!" Cathy stated enthusiastically, looking over her shoulder. "It
was great, I learned so much. And I know you didn't want me to go up into the crow's nest,
but there's such a great view from up there. All sea and land in the distance and I could
see all the people on the other ships."
"Just be careful up there. If you fall out you'll be quite dead." Lara informed
her, taking a bite of her diner.
"Could you teach me how to swing on those ropes."
The captain's head shot up. "Excuse me?"
"You know, when you jump out from up there and hang on to the ropes and just
go..." Cathy circled her hands around in a flying motion. "Like that
"
"Do you know how long it took for me to learn how to do that? It's very hard
You just stick to climbing in stead of flying, OK?"
Cathy gave her a look and sighed. "OK
"
Footsteps came closer, then Lara let her now empty bowl sink down in a bucket with water.
"Don't give me that look." Her voice burred into Cathy's ear.
The girl glanced up at her . "What look?"
"That very sad, innocent, disappointed look. It's not gonna work."
Cathy considered this for a moment. "It isn't?"
"Nope." Lara grinned, shaking her head.
"Well, that's a first..:" Cathy muttered, then laughed as Lara attempted to look
annoyed. "But it's OK, I learned enough today anyway
" She stated, turning
back to her stew and staring to fill more bowls. "I'll get you to teach it to me some
other time."
Lara looked down on the blond head, then managed a sad smile. "Right."
Green eyes looked up at her with a twinkle. "Is that a challenge?"
The captain let the smile grow, making it more convincing. "Maybe it is
"
Cathy laughed, pulling another bowl closer. "Watch it captain, if you wait long
enough, you just might get what you wish for."
"I hope so." Lara stated, taking hold of another one of the bowls. "But I
doubt it." She shot a smile in Catherine's direction, then turned back towards the
stairs. "I'll take this up to Matthew."
Catherine watched her go with a puzzled look on her face. "What's up with you,
Lara?" She wondered out loud as she heard the door close. Then she silently shook her
head, continuing with her work pensively.
Night fell once more and Lara ordered her night crew to light as many lanterns as they
could. She'd positioned her ship in front of the English fleet now. As she knew the area
better it'd be easier if she led them along the coast at night, she'd reasoned with
Kennard, and the officer had agreed. The ships behind her were mere lights in the
distance. Lara leaned on the wheel calmly, taking a deep breath of the night air. She
loved sailing at night, when the moon was up and reflected of the sea so brightly. Things
were so nice and calm at this hour, not even the sounds of seagull's crying out. Just the
ship, the sea and her. Lara smiled, closing her eyes for a moment.
Ben came trotting up the stairs, saluting as he got closer. "All's well
captain."
"Great." Lara smiled at him. "Think you can keep her straight for a
moment?" She asked the boy, indicating the steering wheel. "I wanna have a look
around, check some stuff."
"Sure, capt'n." Ben nodded enthusiastically.
"Good." Lara left the boy on the stern and walked along the deck, nodding to the
few members of her crew. She walked past the ropes, seeing if they were strung tight and
hadn't gotten stuck anywhere.
Finally she checked if the forward sails were tied down securely, then leaned over the
railing, content with the state of her new ship. The ship bounced up on the waves in a
soothing motion, breaking trough the water with a soft splash. Movement caught her
attention and in the moonlight dolphins' faces popped out of the waves around the bough,
jumping up cheerfully. The whole scene brought a smile to her face and she relaxed a
little, letting her mind drift. It drifted to times before, and her mother singing to her
before bedtime, a song in a strange language from long ago. She hummed along softly,
slowly starting to remember the words.
She stopped abruptly though as feet shuffled behind her and she spun around to find
Catherine watching her. She stared at the girl for a moment. She'd washed, her wet hair
shimmering in the moonlight and she'd slipped into a shirt, getting ready for sleep. She
managed a smile, then turned her gaze back to the restless sea.
"You have a beautiful voice." Cathy whispered quietly, stepping up next to
her.
Lara shrugged.
"No, really." The girl argued softly. "You have
" She fell silent
for a moment. "It's nice out here tonight."
"Yeah." Lara nodded, glad at the chance of subject. "It's calm now. Silence
after the storm I guess."
"Yeah." Cathy bit her lip, then stared up at the quiet profile beside her.
"I guess I just wanted to come and say goodnight. So,
goodnight"
Blue eyes turned her way and Lara smiled down at her, her face hidden in shadows.
"Sleep well, Catherine. I'll see you in the morning."
"Yeah." Cathy wanted to turn away, but then reconsidered. "I'm sorry
I
I disturbed you just now
I didn't mean to barge in, but
"
"It's OK." Lara interrupted her, then watched green eyes track up to hers in
uncertainty. "Really."
Cathy nodded. "OK
" She turned away again, then sighed and turned back.
"If something's bothering you, and you wanna talk about it
" Her sentence
trailed off as she looked down. "I could
uhm
"
Lara watched the bent face for a moment, then chuckled softly. "Nothing gets by you,
does it?"
Green eyes peeked up with a slight smile and Catherine shrugged.
The captain shook her head softly. "It's nothing
I
I'm just a bit worried
about the oncoming battle and all
"
"Oh
I should've thought of that, I guess..." Cathy muttered softly, then
remained silent for a moment. "I'd better butt out and go to sleep huh?" She
said, then turned away again.
A soft touch on her shoulder stopped her. "Catherine?"
Catherine paused for a moment, then looked back. "Yeah?"
"Thanks."
"You're welcome." A smile crossed her face and she softly touched the captain's
arm. "See you tomorrow."
"Good night." Lara smiled back at her, then watched her walk off before turning
towards the sea once more, closing her eyes as she let out a deep breath.