From living the nightmare, to becoming it!

[JD Black]

[shadow=red,left,300] [glow=blue,2,300]Distant Ports of Call [/glow] [/shadow]

[shadow=black,left,300] SSDD[/shadow]

The evening had started out as one of laughter and a good time to be had with newly made friends; Elliot Deveredge and Anya Kearney. Now isn't that a strange word for the swashbuckler to use ....friends. Even stranger those to whom she had began to develop such relationships with. The very type of people she had sworn to hate and destroy at every possible chance.

The death of her father and many of the crewmen, her family, the only ones she ever knew in her life. The men had taken her under wing, taught her every skill they possibly could. Then, just as now, times started out good and being happy. That was until that fateful day when the nightmare would be created. Her father and crewmen rushing back to the ship, within days, they laid dying upon their bunks. Flesh rotting off their bodies, and no one knowing why. Though she suspected it had something to do with the War Lord that ran Azores. A noble, a man of wealth and power.

Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. Only when the nightmares ended, had she became it instead. Attacking any and all ships that crossed her path. Targeting wealthy families to rob them blind, then slaughter them; children and all. No concious did she have, no heart, no mercy, no forgiveness. Death and destruction laid in her wake, and she truely didn't care. It had become a game to her.

Her happiness robbed of it's existance and in it's place was a deep seeded anger and hate. It was during this time that her notoriety flourished. Land and sea both would be left burning as the Black Swan sailed away. Bodies slaughtered, broken and dismembered. The strangest thing of this all. She gained no satisfaction in what she did, never truely feeling vindicated of the life which was robbed.

On a rare evening, usually when she was well into her cups and had yet to pass out, did her men ever see a fraction of the spirited, light hearted girl, she once was. Only to melt away as the sun rose within the sky. Then she was back to her old self, barking orders and making threats. Never once did she make them idly. If the warning wasn't heeded, then blood did flow, without hesitation.


It was in the friendships developed that she made the Port of Heathfield one of her many extended stops. As well, in time, to purchase the proprietorship of a particual dock side tavern, so appropriately named. Her fleet began to grow, a second, then third ship to be carrying her flag. Life was good, she was starting to find happiness that had once been lost. She was even beginning to permit some feelings to come back to life.

What a fool. She should have learned her lesson once. Happiness wasn't in the stars for her. She wasn't permitted such a luxury. Perhaps the legends about the ever elusive Captain Black, the Blood Thirsty Pirate were true. It was said, the Captain of the ship that rose black sails was cursed. As was her crew and the ship itself. Demons and devils served upon that vessel. It was a living example that hell truely existed.

The bringer of horror and terror. A vessel of destruction and chaos. She should never have gotten comfortable in her life. Putting trust where once she never would have dreamed. It was all coming back at her, like the flashback of that fire that had so deeply scarred her flesh. One man, it took but one man to make her world come tumbling down and reality faced. In a way she didn't find that awefully suprising. Men were not to be trusted, they were worse liars and theives than what she could ever lay claim to.

What was the cause of such a drastic change in the swashbuckler? One man, Randall Simon Cann. Once a trusted crewman of the Black Swan. Then to become the Captain of the third ship of her fleet. That was until he came into the Thistle Tavern to drop the bomb at her feet....

" I know who you truly are. I served under your father, I knew your mother well. All that aside, I must tell you now .... I was granted a pardon by the King of England and reinstated to my position as Admiral of his fleet. ..... We are now advisaries, Miss Black."

This shared with her as if they were discussing the weather. All she could do was stare at him. This man who knew more about her than many others. He knew of her deeds, her haunts and hiding places. Those she associated with, by the most part. There were some she kept silent of knowing, to protect both side. Worse of all, he knew her true name. He also knew, that the Captain Black on the playbills, the one listed as a man was none other than herself. The King of England and the Queen of Spain, along with the heigharcy of France and Italy, had a substantial price on her head. Now one of the men she was closest with, was to be the one to hunt her down and destroy her.

No bigger blow could she have been dealt. No greater pain did she feel in her heart at that moment; it nearly equalled that felt upon her father's death. This was beyond betrayal or mutany. This was also personal.

"Go t' 'ell Randall. Ye go straight t' 'ell for makin' me care."

Those were the last words to be spoken to Randall. Leaving a stunned Salem "Frenchy" De La Court and Anya Kearney in the Thistle Tavern as she stormed out. It would be straight towards the docks that she made her way, that's when all unholy hell broke out, and she was the beast to which was it's cause ..........

[JD Black]

[shadow=red,left,300] [glow=blue,2,300]Distant Ports of Call [/glow] [/shadow]

[shadow=black,left,300] SSDD[/shadow]

"Enjoying a nice stroll.. You? Are you waiting for more adventure of the manly sort?" She lifted her head with a wink.."Or to enjoy your paper?"

"Mhmm." Watching her for a moment and nodding his head. Her reaction tugged a grin across his lips, but to keep from making her blush with discomfort he played it off and snapped open the paper he held. "Manly sort?" Elliot chuckled. "Not this afternoon dear. Hmm, look here." He pointed. "Say's that Lord Geoffrey and Lady Hamilton were caught in a comprising situation. Seems a state of undress and both married to other people." A wide grin spread Across his face then he scanned down. "Hmm...mentions that there's still a large reward for any information leading to the capture of the notorious Captain Black. How many years now have they been trying to capture that pirate you Think?" The article would get a shake from his head as he closed the paper and glanced over to Anya.

"Playing cards, drinking, debauching some innocent virgin. Finding a mistress, sort like that?" Innocent, yes. Ignorant of the ways of the world, no. But she did not look to him as she spoke her words, she studied to wood of the table until he mentioned Captain Black. She remembered that man's words to JD, then his words to Frenchy..no it couldn't be, could it. "Captain Black you say, and what paper is that in which you read such words?" Plain worded no Honey or maiden virtue laced.

The door was flung open wide and gone was that usual swagger, in it's place a purposeful stride. The scowl upon features would be the outward indication of the dark mood she was in. Not a glance to any, fixation of gaze upon Alex. "Poteen." More growled than stated. Stepping up to the bar, hands would grip it's edge, in a strangling hold.

Anya almost got a gasp from Elliot. "Good God woman, you should not even be speaking of such things, let alone thinking them." Chuckling and shaking his head. "I'm a rogue or sorts, but I am a gentleman and would never .. as you Delicately put it...debauch some innocent ." He gave a long whistle in disbelief at her outlandish words. d**n she was an eye opener and kept him on his toes. Things he liked about her. "Oh...uhm...it's the paper out of London, England." Glance to the paper with a confirming nod. "Yes, England's King as had a price on Captain Black's head for many years now. Large sum too."

She heard her enter, felt a presence and turned to view the object of her concern all night, and through this day. She did not speak, she would let her speak first. That man's words filled her mind, JD rushing out. Bloody hell!

When the door flew open and JD marched in, Elliot quietly watched her. Such a Dark and brooding look she held. Something had happened here last night and if Anya knew she wasn't saying anything. Maybe Anya was intimated to greet the woman, but he was not. "JD...hello there luv."

The door was pushed opened and Geddoe entered, hand moving from his sides to rest on the hilt of his blade. Eye gave the room a quick scan Apparently he had just walked in right after an upset JD...Brow rose at her

Elliot would find she was already looking at him when he turned to greet her. More looking at that paper he held, as if she could murder the inanimate object. It would be his words that would have those dark blue piercing eyes to rest upon him. "Elliot .... Anya." All that would be said at the present. Another glance at that paper, then to the entry of Geddoe. Jaw was clamped tight, the muscles of the sides in motion. A deep breath taken, she quickly turned back to face the bar, snagging up the bottle Alex put before her and pushing away the glass. The bottle was lifted and tilted to take a longer than usual pull of the potent whiskey it contained.

Zach came in quietly, as the best way to deal with anger was to keep it all bottled up inside, wasn't it? He didn't check in with anyone last night, very comfortable wandering about town and do this, that and the other. He had Fists balled up, and he moved right up to the bar, taking a seat on the stool and a deep breath before he looked about and gave the Lady Cap a brief nod, then Geddoe too.

That look from her had his other brow raising as well...though you couldn't really see it. He hesitantly walked toward the bar after her...setting himself down a stool away from her

She wasn't intimidated, she had witness grief from JD the previous night. Words from one that was so obviously a friend of JD that she left when she was betrayed. Wasn't she? "Can I see it?" She did not acknowledge her words said Earlier, she was not wanting that blasted paper.."Please." Holding her hand out to retrieve the paper, giving him no reason to refuse her. was wanting*

The tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a knife. "Certainly." Aimlessly the paper was handed over to Anya, but his gaze remained on JD's posture. Chilly reception indeed. "Anya dear." Forcing his gaze from the sea wench. "I'm going to get myself a refill. Are you all right?" Yes, it was just an excuse to approach the sea captain.


He would return that nod of Zach's with one of his own, then eye shifted back toward his angered captain.

"Thank you, precious.." She did not open the paper, nor did she let any emotion show. The act of the jokester would stay in tact.."Now let us show JD the gossip, married and sleeping with others you say, hmmm" With a wink given to Elliot and forced, she lifted from the chair and moved toward her friend, yes JD was her friend. "Look JD, the gossip is most enjoyable.." But silently she was letting JD read of this Captain Black. Why? She felt she knew who this was, but would not assume. "I am sure our precious Elliot will not mind.." With a kiss to her cheek, she eased on a stool near her side. Keeping that sunny smile plastered on her lips, to show nothing of her worry within for her friend.

Geddoe was completely in the dark as to what was going on, or what had happened last night...he had heard loud, destructive noises last night, but assumed they were part of the life on a boat. He sat quietly to listen and hopefully find out what was going on, without having to ask

For some reason unknown to himself, Elliot didn't think flashing that paper under JD's nose at the moment was the grandest idea. Slowly he approached the bar, keeping an eye on both women. He'd let Anya do her little thing there, Meanwhile he turned to Alex and asked him to refill the tea cup. With a movement of fingers he motioned for him to add a splash of whiskey to his drink as well.

She would tense more as the others gathered around her, the grip on that bottle to tighten a bit more. Eyes closed for a brief moment, slow breathing to get her self control back. then a glance towards Anya, redirecting upon the Paper there. It would be snagged up in hand, crushing it into a wad. "Flamboyant gossip. Why does anyone read this rubbish to begin with?" Coolly stated as it was tossed behind the bar to hit the floor. She knew what was written, it was memorized, as well as the list of charges that filled nearly an entire book it seemed. The bottle was again tilted and a deep drink again taken.

Zachary was less in the dark, being that he was now without a lead. So much for shooting cannonballs around anymore. He turned around on the stool so that he could lean backwards against the bar, face turning so his eyes could Watch the paper hit the floor beside him. A characteristic cluck of tongue as he found the captain. He wanted to say something, feeling that he should answer a question, or ask one. He was still here, so hopefully that told the Captain something of his intentions.

She leaned up, a whisper given to JD, soft and filled with compassion. When the words were finished, she turned with a smile to Alex, giving her some tea. No rum this day, simple tea. Nor did she fear JD's words, or action. "I am your friend, JD..No matter what"

A deep breath was taken and he leaned in toward Zach, quiet words escaped his lips as he spoke

That had her looking at Anya a bit harder. Blue eyes narrowed, almost deadly was that gaze. "You know. Don't you." A statement and question both, why else did she say such a thing? It was stated so that only the woman could clearly hear what she had to say.

"I put it together, but I shall not pass judgment. We all do things that we feel needed to be done, good or bad..it is woven together." She kept her blues trained on JD, her features gave proof she did not judge her.."Your my friend."

He replied to Geddoe with a quick whisper and shake of head.

He pulled back, sighing slightly. He wasn't about to ask her anything at the moment...Glance was given to the captain and cleared his throat quietly. He still had no intentions of asking right now

"I've learned a great lesson recently, from a friend." Such sarcasm was in her voice, she wasn't able to help that. What was the worse, she had nowhere to run. There was no place of solace for her anylonger. She was beginning to feel as if cornered, unable to clearly think of anything but revenge and self survival.

Elliot stood at the end of the bar, several feet away from the others. He didn't feel like prying today, but from JD's actions it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out something had the woman ready to blow up the world. The Liquor laced tea was lifted so he could take a sip, keeping to himself for the moment.

"I am not him, JD..I need no words from a King. I do not take friendship lightly, nor will I leave you when you need me the most. You have friends, JD. None will hurt you." She spoke her words, turning to the others..JD needed friends, many at this time. Perhaps if others spoke, and not fear her.

"Ya.." He nodded, still not feeling educated enough on the subject to say anything of note. It wasn't that Zachary was afraid of her. He respected the hell out of her. Maybe the one thing that Zach was afraid of was that he was on that ship, that maybe he would have turned on her too. Or at least, that she thought he would.

For a long moment she gazed upon Anya, then focus would shift to Elliot. Ever feel like a specimen under a microscope? Anya and Elliot should feel like an Ameba under high power scrutiny. It was then she turned her attention to Geddoe and Zachary. "Randall informed me last night that he gained a pardon from the King of England for his crimes. He's been reinstated as admiral of the fleet." He was placed in the highest position of those who hunted their kind as well as providing safety for England's shores. Surely they could grasp the situation she now faced.

She squeezed JD's arm, briefly and gently, before jumping from the stool and returning to her seat at the table. She did not need Anya crowding her, but she would not leave. She was merely giving JD space.

Nor did Elliot reply to Anya's remarked. Instead he was turned to the side and looking at the balled up paper tossed to the floor. Quietly he walked over to it, picked it up and uncrumple it. "I wonder...was it the type of wood used to make this paper that has someone so upset? Maybe the print's too small...or perhaps it could even be one of the articles in this English paper. But which one?" Slowly he turned towards Anya and JD, brown hues resting on Each face. Somehow Elliot didn't think it was the paper that had JD upset, but this news she was speaking of to them about someone named Randall, though the others seemed to garner how this implicated her, Elliot still did not know Who for sure she was.

Zach had been on the Penelope. He was..aware. "Aye, Cap."

A brow rose...this was news to him "He left, just like that..?"

[JD Black]

[shadow=red,left,300] [glow=blue,2,300]Distant Ports of Call [/glow] [/shadow]

[shadow=black,left,300] SSDD[/shadow]

She held the handle of the tea cup a bit firm, almost feeling it bend to her deadly grasp before releasing it to a more gentler state.

His head shook and he rubbed his forehead "That bastard...he knows where we are...how to get to us..." He would and turn and lean his back against the bar like Zach::

A sharp glance towards Elliot, then back to Geddoe focus returned and she nodded. "Yes, as well as informing me of our adversary state." Did that put more information out there for them? She was cornered and like a wild animal, claws were extracted and ready to shred any that got close.

She needed air, and she needed it now. "Excuse me, I am going to step outside for a moment." And out she went.

After composing himself, he sat up on his stool once more "Well...I ain't gonna leave ya captain..." A thumb was jabbed toward Zach:: And I think if he was gonna leave, he woulda been gone by now." Glance was given to Zach before he shifted his gaze back towards the captain "If he wants to be enemies...then let him. I'll skin him alive if I see him again.."

"S'done an' done. He is ya enemy. We ain't. An we will deal wit' it. Me included."

The intensity of blues would turn now upon Zach. "I would
suggest that you heavily suggest to the crew of the Penelopy to take shore
leave tonight." Lowly and cooly stated. The fire in those pupils surrounded
by dark blue glimmered : more with the comment made. An intention there, just not
openly explained.

He was also aware of JD's and Randall's relationship...it
went a little depper than just friends, from what he saw. Head was shook
again

Listening to the flow of conversation, the tension and
then that little news paper article pulled pieces together rather nicely.
Silent nod of his head, he tossed the paper onto a table and walked back to
the bar, leaning against it. "Hmm...beg pardon, Captain Black." Brown hues rested
directly on JD's face. "Seems everyone's been made a fool of for years. That
is....assuming the notorious Captain Black was a man, if my calculations are
correct, then you're in a bit of trouble, aren't you?"

Zachary nodded as matter of factly. It burned him up that
Randall did what he did, Him being the one that was talking about extended
family to Zachary in the first place. "I'm already off th' ship. I didn'
even have a chance to get settled in, and you can trust that I will make sure no
one else makes any kind of mistakes, and should there be any that get wind of
'Captain' Randalls actions.." ohhh..pretty sarcasm.. " and try to follow
him, that you will be th' first ta' know, Cap."

: Then to Geddoe focus would turn. "I want you to interview
them all, any who show loyalty to Randall, you know what to do." Leaving that
open for the man to use his darkest imagination. "Those who don't, will be
repositioned on one of the Swans." Elliots words would now have that burning
gaze upon him. "Mocking me Mister Deveridge?" Brow rose as she stood from her
lean. Defensive, you betcha. She had little trust for anyone at the moment.
Many men turned into fools when the thought of weighty bags of gold could be
easily gained.

Zachary had taken VERY well to the cannons, and he was
certainly very hopeful that he could get at the hand of one again. He had a
good aim, and could load and shoot really quick. He loved it, it was like a
knife; but bigger.

He listened to the Captain as she spoke to him...a slight
grin played at his lips "No problem, Captain. Consider it done..." He leaned
back once more, ideas starting to fly through his head::

The sea wench gravely misjudged the artist, but many had
most of his life. He didn't move from his lean, but kept his gaze on her
face. "Not in the least JD. I never would have guessed to be honest. But I
am concerned for you now that it's apparent who you are."

Hands lifted to cover her face for a moment, then slid
back over features and then hair before lowering. "Ay, you could say I'm in a
bit of a position. It'll only be a matter of time before more figure it out.
If you and Anya did, others will too." Has anyone noticed that thingyney brogue
was gone? Her words spoken were quite proper and schooled. Which was the
facade, and which the true individual?

Elliot dared to reach up and brush back a few strands of
her hair to the side of her face. "To say the least luv. Between a rock and a
hard place is an understatement. That reward for you is practically a king's
ransom in itself. You'll have every money hungry leech after you're pretty
neck unless a plan is devised to thwart them." His hand dropped away.

"Cap, you an' I need ta talk an' soon." He smiled, to
indicate that there was no bad news at hand, he just wanted a word with her.
He stood and started for the exit, stopping and turning to stick a finger at
Elliot. "An you, sir.careful wit' tha' tongue or I might make a soup with it."

Coming out of his "daydream", he listened quietly to the
unfamiliar man...left hand rested lightly upon the hilt of his blade::

"Oh, I have a plan all right." Looking to Geddoe and Zach.
"To quiet a tongue, it must be removed." Suggestion? A bounty of her own? No
matter what, she came to the conclusion last night, Randall had to die. A
glance towards Elliot with that touch, then back to Zach as he spoke and a brow
to rise. She couldn't help the momentairy smirk to form. He was definately
one of HER men.

The man didn't stir a worried look in Elliot's gaze when
he turned to him, instead he got a broad grin. "Oh my lips are sealed where
this pretty lady is concerned. You have no worries over your captain from
me." JD would get a wink,for her secret was safe with Elliot too.

She heard the words as she stepped inside, stopping short.
With a breath taken in, slowly and measured her strides carried to the seat
near the table.

"I do like my soup.." He shrugged. "Headed inta town."
He wasn't sure if the Port was a good place to be right this minute. "I'll
be back soon."

"Be well, Zach..." This was spoken over his shoulder as his
gaze still lingered on the two in front of him::

A leisurely day of rest is what the doctor's ordered, in
fact it was what Kimber Deveridge had insisted from their guest at
Havenhurst. But Captain Montgomery informed his friend that he'd join him
this afternoon at the Thistle for a drink and some conversation. The door pushed open
and Montgomery slowly strolled inside, the light tapping of the cane he
leaned on echoed against the floor boards. A good look around the room, he'd
greet his friend with a brief smile as he made his way towards the bar. "Afternoon
Elliot. Hope you haven't been waiting too long."

Disposition didn't get any better, that bottle rose to
take another healthy swig. She was well on her way to a drunken stooper.
Perhaps not the best course of action, but the bottom of a bottle was always
her hiding spot.

Anya took note of the new arrival, briefly, until her gaze
studied the cup before her. Fingers wrapped about the china, shaking it to
study the shifting current of the tea.

His eye gave a quick glance toward the door, then
shifting evena faster back at the Captain..a brow would raise slightly to
himself.

Quickly Elliot looked up as the two men left and his
friend stopped in. He cleared his voice, calling out loud enough for
everyone to hear. "Ah, there you are Brent. Might I introduce to you all,
Captain Brenton Montgomery of the British Army." Cupped hand came to his mouth, a faked
cough to thwart unheeded news to the British Officer in their presense.

A wary glance was shot towards the newest arrival, then to
Elliot as the man addressed him. Then that introduction gained the man
another look. She was cursed, no doubt about it. She had always avoided blood
shed in Heathfield, it seemed as if fate was testing her and that perhaps she'd
end up dirtying the soil.

A sip of tea was taken, and didn't you know it, when Elliot
introduced his friend the entire mouthful of tea sprewed out her mouth to
coat the wood of the table. Blast and d**nation!

A hand was placed at her arm, sensing what she was
thinking. A slight shake of his head and soft spoken words were given to
her "Not here, Captain.."

Deveridge received a strange look. Since when did he ever
introduce Brent that way to others? This the man who detested propriety, even
waved his thumb in their noses and mocked their gestures. A brow would dip
down as he looked from one face to the next, slowly tipping his head. "A
pleasure I'm sure." But his words indicated that he wasn't the least sure he
was welcomed this time in the Thistle.

Anya's spewing would gain the woman a glance and rise of
brow. The man was going to know something was up. She looked back to Geddoe
when he spoke to her. "I know." Her only reply.

Oh Lord, think Anya think. "Sir, how is London?" She was
thinking so fast her mind was spinning, as was tongue licking at the tea that
now coated her lips. "Hot Tea..goodness Alex, must it be so hot" Mockingly
pucker her lips as if blister was forming at the moment.

Elliot clapped his hands together. Smiling broadly at his
friend. "Brent, my it's good you made it. We were just talking about the
entertainment we had last night. Shame you missed it." Anya received a
quelling glance to drop the news inquires about London and all. "Posh, who wants to
hear about dull ol' London, right?" Flashing out a grin.

That hand gave her arm a slight, almost loving squeeze,
then was removed, turning his attention once more to the officer

Now focus was shifting to Elliot and a brow rose. What was
the man up to? A critical look was given. She spoke not a word, just took
another drink from that nearly empty bottle at this point. Yes, fast
consumption. She had a good constitution when it came to the hardest of liquors,
something she was cursing when she wanted to be passed out cold.

What else was she suppose to do? Anger lite her gaze, she
would find a board and knock Elliot Deveridge out in a moment.
"True..Scotland is much better" Spoken truthfully from her point of view.

Ahem. "Right." Capt. Montgomery stepped up to the bar and
leaned the cane against the counter. Most would take easy notice that the
officer was injured. "Sherry." Requesting a drink from Alex. Elliot would
receive a glance, as would the other man and the two females. "Never much cared
for news of London myself. Most gossip and wasted words." Taking the drink
from Alex he lifted the glass for a sip. Anya captured a glance from Brent.
"I enjoy Scotland myself." Hazels would move back to his friend. "So, what
was so interesting last night that I missed?"

A look was given to the officer as he approached the
bar...not of disgust, but d**n near it. Left hand idly slid his blade back
and forth from within the sheath, only a few inches out, then back in. He
enjoyed the sound it made

Geddoe would gain a glance of warning. Fiddling with a
weapon was a bad habit to have, it gained attention and raised questions as
to why.

"Good..Good.. glad to hear it." Came her snippy reply. At
this moment, Elliot Deveridge was on her list. She lifted from the chair,
with all the pop and circumstance for who she was and moved toward the
hearth. Pouting no, but she detested blood shed. None would be shed here, but still
the thought had her cringe. What to do? Enjoy her tea near the hearth.

Picking up the cup of tea he gulped down a sip, grinning
back at his friend as he took an easy lean against the bar. "Oh, just one of
those nights of good drink, good company and friendly teasing. Seemed I was
the brunt of the teasing though." Flicking a wink to Anya and JD.

Glance recieved, and arms quickly crossed over his chest,
eye moving to the hearth

"Elliot was teaching Missy Anya how to kiss." Now she'd
speak, without a glance towards the two men. It would be towards Anya.
Anything to take focus off the convesation before the member of the Royal
Army had entered.

"Oh yes, JD...I have to wonder, if Elliot's friend kisses as
well as Elliot, and perhaps another sweet stick." She would aide JD, but the
saucy grin came to be with surprise speed.

Brent leveled his eyes on Elliot. "A rake are we now?" A
hoarse laugh escaped his mouth. "I knew you were up to no good. I just pray
I don't see you wedded off by some outrageous father, Elliot." He'd look
towards JD, but Anya managed to catch his attention again. The two men were
close as friends, even thick as thieves, but there the likeness ended. "You
must be imaging another friend of Elliot's, I'm sure Miss." Giving a cordial
smile to the female.

"Ay, perhaps Elliot would like to share it with his friend
as he did us." A glance towards Elliot then and only a hinted smirk. With
what was on her mind, even friendly banter didn't help quell those dark,
murderous thoughts. It was then she spoke on the last part. "Unless he's too chicken
to prove he can kiss you as good if not better than Elliot could." Dare and
challange put forth, which of the two would bite?

"I only asked a question, Sir." She wouldn't pucker for this
English fop even you paid her all the riches of Scotland and Robert The Bruce
came to life once more!

He was sinking fast and the ship was going down with him.
"Well now." As he felt that noose tightening once again. "Seems I'm in a bit
of hot water here." A worried chuckle fell from his lips.

"Bawk...Bawk.." The chicken sound came, but briefly as tea
was consumed. Huff! Imagining another friend of Elliot's, I am sure. Her
mind mimicked his words.

The Bawking gained a grin for a moment, that was until the
bottle was tilted to finish it off.

Something wasn't right here and Captain Montgomery sensed
it with every fiber of his being. He wouldn't play into the banter though,
not that it wasn't his style, he felt it was all a put on. "Perhaps another
time. I did promise Kimber's son to play with the wooden soldiers I brought for
him. Boy wants to play the British navy. Seems I'm to be the black pirate."
Picking up his cane he tipped his head to the others. "Enjoy your day,
everyone." Quietly he moved from the bar and strolled back to the door to leave.

"Sir.." Cordial nod given, she did not know his name.

Elliot raised his hand to his friend. "I'll cathc up with
you later Brent. Give my sister a kiss for me." Joking of course. He knew
that Montgomery would give him a good thrasing over this little scene.

Dark blues turned towards Elliiots friend. "What do you
know about being a black pirate?" Nearly snorted. "Filling the boys head with
fancy ideas of how the British Navy is all powerful?" Scoffing. Okay, the
poteen had loosened her tongue some.

Kearney blues shifting to JD, a negative shake of her head
seen, but briefly to not gain the attention of one English Soldier.

The one thing that could make the Captain loose composer
had his face turn ashen. "Indeed." He quietly replied to his friend. But the
woman introduced as JD would get a very careful scrutinizing stare. "I know
how to win and when to lose to a child's fanciful imagination, Miss. That is all that I need to know this day." With a two finger salute he turned and left them all.

When the officer was gone, he spat in his direction, "Uppity bastard..."

A low whistle came from between Elliot's lips as he raked a hand throw his dark hair. "Well, that was interesting." Elliot turned and shook his head at JD's man. "No, you misunderstand Brent. He's not at all like he appears. Believe me."

A slight shrug was given "Then he shouldn't appear that way..." Arms shifted across his chest slightly

Low whistle; fingers gliding back through burgundy hue, untamed, and unadorned. Hip to the door, the navigator sashayed on in, tugging the corset up a little bit, cutlass adjusted.

The artist simply shrugged. "He's a soldier. What's as common place in actions to him as is common place in actions to a pirate."

Eye glanced toward the door and spotted Anabelle...he lingered on her for a moment before looking at Elliot...Another shrug was given

Anabelle smiled wide, tipping an imaginary hat, palms sliding over breech clad hips.

He would turn his attention to Anabelle again, then he spoke, patting a stool next to him "Sit down, please."

One raised brow, and she sat down -- she didn't ask why; she might have protested if it was his lap.. sitting down on the stool.

Elliot wasn't going to bother with trying to explain his friend's actions. They'd have to give him the benefit of the doubt and get to know him. Just as Brent had accepted Elliot many years ago without prejudice, so would others in turn.

[JD Black]

[shadow=red,left,300] [glow=blue,2,300]Distant Ports of Call[/glow] [/shadow]

[shadow=black,left,300] SSDD[/shadow]

Both hands were brought up to run through his hair.
Turning back around to face the bar he ordered a straight shot of poteen from
Alex. Elliot didn't like purposely eluding his best friend on a delibrate
path of deception. He'd need to talk to him later, but without going into details.
He knew he could trust Montgomery, but there was a limit to what he'd risk
without endangering JD's identity. "Bloody hell." He muttered under his
breath, then tossed back the drink.

Patiently waiting; swinging her legs. Bright grin to the
distraught-looking man.

::He looked around a moment at the people...he wasn't sure
if JD wanted to hear anything about it again. He stood, hand offered to
Anabelle:: On second thought...follow me.


Without looking up, the man and other woman would get a
nod from Elliot. Glass tapped to the counter top, Alex refilled it again.

She blinked; taking his hand. What was up with this..
business?

A motion to Alex as the empty bottle was placed upon the
bar. She heard Elliot's comments, just nothing to reply to about the. A
glance over to Geddoe to see Anna was at his side. Now she turned to face the
woman, her question would be direct and down right cold. "How loyal are you to
Randall?" Blue eyes would bore into the woman. Ever feel like the center of
an execution trial? Anna should at the moment.

::He took her hand and started walking, then stopped as JD
spoke...he wanted to get this done quiter, and maybe less hurtful...but oh
well::

Ana did indeed, but the question took no deliberating; the
answer was thought out, nothing as quick as flash just because Captain Black
was about to will her head off with that dark look -- an honest and sincere
one, said slowly. "Nay as loyal as m'tae ye, Cap'n." Captain Black was Ana's
role model, and she had yet to find a fiercer woman.

::Thought it was his job to interview...shrugged slightly
to himself at his own though::

While JD worked things through in her mind, grilled her
crew and such, Elliot picked up his glass from the counter and walked back to
the chair he had orginally been sitting in before all t his dire news. He
dropped down into the seat, staring into the flames. After another sip, the
glass was set down and fingertips were steepled together, pressed to his lips
as the wheels in his head began to turn.

To that she'd just nod and a glance towards Geddoe. At
least he wouldn't have to slit the throat of his lover. She'd turn back to
the bar, this time focus was upon Elliot. "So how much do I need to worry
over this friend of yours?"

His head came up, turning towards JD his gaze narrowed
some in thought. "I don't honestly know yet. But I can assure you that he
has no idea who you are. I'm debating on speaking with him but of what I can
tell him I'm unsure."

"He may be your friend Elliot, but that won't hold water
if he does and tries to take action. I won't go down easily, I'll tell you
that." Glass snagged in hand, she'd turn to move towards where he now sat.
Not wanting to shout out across the room as dirty laundry was being aired.

::A glance was given to the Captain as she finished, and he
started toward the hearth, Anabelle's hand still in his::

No, she wouldn't have to slit Ana's throat. Though, this
whole thing was confusing as all hell, and Anabelle just followed the person
pulling her.

::He stopped at the table closet to the hearth and sat
down, lightly pulling her to the seat next to him::

His gaze turned back to the fire, but he welcomed the
company of JD. "He's my best friend, JD. Like a brother to me and he has my
loyalty as well as I do his." He could only shake his head. "He is loyal to
the crown. After all, that's his job and what he dedicated his life too. It's
what a soldier does." Musing his own words. "But there's a side of Brenton
that most don't know."

Anabelle crawled to settle in his lap. Leaning up, whisper.
"Wha' was tha' all 'bout?"

::Hands would slip around her waist, he needed someone to
hold at the moment...it would calm him down..Eye looked at her quietly for a
moment, then he spoke quietly:: Randall's...gone, Ana..

Tilt of her head, a glance, grey cutting through noir. One
brow rose. "Randall's.. gone?" He couldn't be dead; then why would JD be
asking about loyalty? Wheels turned, clicked, and her eyes got wide when
she.. well, figured a little bit out.

Brows furrowed, she leaned agaisnt the side of his chair,
facing towards the fire. "I had a side like that once, until someone I
trusted decided to turn against me. I don't know how much he's shared, if
anything. He knows too much, he knows things no others do because of past relations
that go beyond that of professional between us." A deep breath taken,she
hated speaking cryptically, but she couldn't take the chance of being open in
a public setting. Walls had ears, she found that out a long time ago.

::He watched her quietly...waiting for any question she was
going to ask...he might not be able to answer it fully, but he'd try his
d**nedest::


"Wha' ye mean, gone?" She didn't fully understand.

Elliot could only shake his head. "Brenton's not like
that. He'd give his life for me and those he loves. I believe even before
country." He glanced up at her, listening to her words. "You speak as one
who confided in a lover. Sometimes those kinds of relationships are more risky than
any others. But tell me, what has he to lure him away from this loyalty he
held to you? What could be bartered with?"

::One hand dropped a little and rested on her thigh,
rubbing it ever so slightly:: He...left. Went back to England. He was
offically pardoned and reinstated as Admiral of the fleet.

"Lover?" That gained a harsh bark of brief laughter. "In
his dreams perhaps." Looking down at him now. "He knew my family, personally.
He was one of my right hand men." That should speak oodles in itself. "The
lure?" Scoffing. "Heading the entire British Fleet. Power, wealth, what do
most turn their back on others for?"

"That's not enough." He quietly said, fingertips coming up
to his lips again as he stared into the fire. Still he'd shake his head.
"Even if he never was a lover of yours, if he truly was a friend and loyal
all that would not matter. There has to be something more." But what, Elliot
didn't hold the pieces to the puzzle, only JD or this Randall person knew.

Greys narrowed, and her look became cold, distant. "He
abandoned us fer tha'? Th' freakin' ton?"

::He nodded slowly at her words..noticing very much so the
look that changed in her eyes::

"There was always conflict between us on how things were
done, Elliot. He believed in mercy and compassion, where I did not. He could
never truely shake away what he was. It was a position held once and now
gained back." Glass : lifted to take a drink. Heavy lean against that chair,
still no move to sit, but she was feeling the bearing weight upon her
shoulders.

Anna's word couldn't help but manage to get a laugh out of
Elliot. Ah yes, the freakin' ton. His sentiments about his peers most times
too. JD would receive a nod again. "I could even understand that. But I
can't see that he'd turn you in for such a price. To give up your life so
easily?" Sitting against the chair back he'd bring his eyes up to her face
as she rested on the arm of his chair.

Her jaw set, taut. He was lucky he wasn't holding her hand;
knuckles had turned white with the force that she was clenching her fist.
Low, deep breaths."Where's his ship." Darkly. She had to get her maps back.

::The other hand that was around her waist made it's way to
her back, rubbing there slightly as well:: Don't worry 'bout it...everythin'
will be taken care of, honest. ::He knew she was worried about those maps,
they were her "babies"::

"There are those who place wealth and power over life,
Elliot. It's what was the driving force behind what I've become today."
simply stated. A glance towards Anna. "The ship is being abandoned by my
command. I'm going to sink it." Stated very coldly. She wanted nothing left in her fleet
to remind her of Randall and that ship was a floating reminder she could do
without.

They were her babies! Glancing to JD wide eyed, scrambling
off Geddoe's lap for the door -- her babies!Her maps, her maps! d**n the ship; her maps!

Elliot could understand JD's revenge. He'd been the butt
of jokes with the nobles for years. Being the bastard son of an illicit
affair could send tongues wagging; it was his reason for mocking them openly.
Playing their little games, but he'd do things his own way. "Yes, the ton is
notorious for backstabbing each other, sadly." Leaning back he reached up
and gently rubbed the muscles behind her neck, the lass looked so d**n tense,
and who could blame her?

::He stood and rushed along to catch Ana, grasping her
arm...lightly, but tight enough:: Wait, Ana.

"Le' me go!" You could never understand how Ana felt for her
maps unless you were.. well, Ana. Tugging, at his hand.

::His other hand reached up and grasped her other arm, he
held her where she was. Eye shifted to JD.:: You have a plan, Captain...what
is it?

He was too strong; dammit. Ana was pulling, but in vain --
she wasn't going to kick him to free herself, so, pulling was her only
option.

She'd not brush away Elliots hand, in truth, it did help
some. Glance towards Geddoe and Anna. "here is not the place or time Geddoe.
Take Anna to gain her things, she can move them to the Black Swan I as
navigator of the flag ship."

::As he watched JD, he pulled Ana toward him, arms wrapping
her body, keeping her hands close to his chest. He waited for the Captain to
speak He nodded, then turned back to Ana...he let her go...sort
of. He would take one of her hands, holding that tightly:: We'll get yer
thin's..

If she wasn't so worried about her maps, she might have
fainted upon hearing she was the navigator for the Black Swan I itself. The
navigator struggled quietly, before she leaned down, and bit Geddoe's wrist,
hoping he'd let up.One distressed. Geddoe was calm and cool as a cucumber.

Elliot had a question for JD, but he'd wait until they
were alone. Somethings you just didn't openly bring up around a room full of
others. Dropping his hand away, he laid it over her thigh, more for a
comforting touch. Soon his attention were on the two distressed crew members.

It was now attention turned back upon Elliot. "If the
Monarchy here gets wind of this, what makes you think they won't turn me in
themselves? Surely they don't want the entire British fleet landing upon
their shores ready to battle." A place where she had thought she found home, was
now becoming a very dangerous place to be. Yes, she was contemplating on just
slipping off into the night and disappearing. Keeping low for awhile.


This was the one thing Ana got upset over outside of not
having enough rum, and battle.

::He let her hand go, grabbing his wrist with his other
hand. He winced in pain and doubled over:: d**nit!

Score! Scrappy Ana took off, out the door like a shot, down
the alleys, heading for the docks.

::He looked up, and she was gone...he growled and shook his
head, shooting out the door after her::

Brown hues would narrow over her sound reasons for
questioning. "I wish I had the answer for you there JD, but I'm new to this
lands and know not where their loyalties lay. Though I believe there are
some you can put your trust in.Yes, I know that word is a fragile piece of work now."
Trust. How does one go about trusting when they've learned well the meaning
of betrayal?

A glance to see that they were alone, then back upon him
focus would turn. "Yes, it's very fragile. I am well schooled in the art of
deceit, Elliot. It's been a big portion of my life for some time now."

Sidelong look brought out a laugh. "I have no doubt of
your ability with deceit, JD. Who would have ever guessed Captain Black to
be a woman?" She'd get a quick once over. "Though I must say, it's a
refreshing revelation." He couldn't help that roguish grin that popped up. Then a
more serious gaze came over his features. "Tell me...this man that has
betrayed you. You claim you weren't lovers. But what you did not state is if
you're heart was dedicated to him once." He gave her a pointed look.

That gained the rise of a brow. "Refreshing revelation?
... Mind explaining this to me? ... Actually, I'm quite surprised that you
and Anya are taking this so well, knowing my crimes against me." To his last
she shook her head slowly. "Never had I been dedicated to him beyond our
professional bindings. Lately, he has been teasing me about marriage, but he
knows my views on that. I'm married to my ship and the sea, I have no room
for any man. I've never lead on any differently. We were friends, a rare commodity
to have in our profession. He went with me on missions where I chose only a
few I could truely trust. He knows more than even the Crowns collectively do.
He is the only one who could destroy me. Even you and Anya have no clue was
to what I've done. I'm sure if you did, you wouldn't be talking to me at this
very moment." Pointedly stated.

Elliot listened very carefully to her words, really
listened and then gave thought to them before answering her. "The refreshing
revelation is that you've thumbed your nose at all mankind in the role that
men believed only a man was capable of. To image the wrath of a woman at the helms of
a pirate ship is actually quite frightening my dear." His hands would reach
up as he turned her around to face him. "I cannot pretend to sit here and
understand the hurt, anger, rage or even the simple point of your situation.
It is only something intense enough to comprehend for the one experiencing
it. As to your crimes. I'm familiar with what I've read in the papers and
indeed they are crimes worthy of hanging. But that is without judgment or a
fairness of trial. That my dear JD I give you the benefit of the doubt. For
no side shall I take, that I stay neutral in, but a frieind to you I shall
remain. There isn't too much more I can say to you with the little knowledge that
I do have."

"Then you're better off remaining clueless, Elliot, or
you'll have a hard time in using the term friend in my presence. On that I
have no doubt." Blues to meet browns in that moment. "I'm in a position where
I'm being forced. I won't let them hang me and I will not go down without a
fight."

Ryder made use of the side door stepping in at the end of a
conversation. Only a few words were possibly picked up as one never knew with
this particular man, what heard, what he chose to hear. Being his brother was in conversation he didn't interrupt, he'd see him well enough as the heavy cloak was shrugged from his shoulders and hung off to a peg. He turned making his way to the bar as near black eyes shifted
betweenboth with a just a nod before Alex was noted and the glass
of poteen set out.

A simple nod came of that. "Your more than likely right.
Somethings I do believe I'm better off not knowing, luv. Though regardless I
do not want to see you hanging by the end of rope." His head would come up
and turn to see his brother making entrance. A quick glance to JD, time to
end this conversation for now. It'd be her choice of what she wanted others
to know and not my his slip. "Ryder, good evening there brother." Ryder
catching a sidelong smile from Elliot.

With Ryder's arrival, no further would she speak on the
matter at hand. Sitting on the arm of Elliots chair, and with his insistance,
turned to face him, so that her legs were more draped over his lap then the
seat. A nod of her head in Ryder's direction. "Evening to you Ryder." So
muddled was her mind, that even that fake thingyney would be foregone.

He was around with the glass of poteen in hand and an
indication of the other to have Alex leave the bottle. Dark eyes set on his
brother with that kind of grin to hitch, there and over the comfortable JD.
Too tempted not to make some comment. "You wear her well. Evening
brother, evening JD." Lifting his glass in toast to them both before kicking
back about half before it was lowered. Burn was good.

That had a brow to rise as she looked back to Ryder. "Just
as well as you wore me the other night." Suggestive to more, though all
present knew better. Still it would not have those words kept to thoughts.

Blasted brother's and their sense of humor. Ryder would
get a bit of a glare, though nothing that wasn't meant without humor. Elliot
turned to examine JD draped over him, then grinned to himself. d**n if she
didn't look good there. "I do believe she's the better looking one, but I
do look rather dashing with her at my side." That little wolfish grin creeped
out.

Elliot would get a pinch to his side.

Maurice came in through the back corridor. Ice blue eyes
flashed with the change of lighting and direction between those within.
"Evening." Roguish grin came naturally as he hailed Alex for a couple of
bottlesof poteen. He was in a very good mood for word had it his
brother should be porting in this very night. More than likely he would stop
here first before heading to the ranch.

JD would hear a hoot of pain for her benefit from that
pinch. "Careful there luv." Giving her a wink. He'd turn for a moment to nod
to Maurice. "Evening." Greeting the man.

Oceanic blues would scrutinize Maurice, though she'd nod
her head in greeting. Elliot spoke the words, so she didn't need to. Instead,
her glass rose to polish off it's contents.

"Far better looking Elliot, at least you finally realize
that." Oh, he was getting into this but it was all in good humor. In fact he
let the draw of dark eyes sear slowly down over that shapely form draped on
his brother. "Far more enticing." Hearing another brought the perusal to
an abrupt halt as focus switched there. "Evening. Ryder Deveridge, my brother
Elliot and JD, the better looking one with him."

Maurice would get an incline from his head as Ryder
formally introduce them. But he'd shoot a look back at his brother. "She
realized it too, plus the fact that I'm the handsome brother out of the
bunch." More good teasing between the brothers. JD would catch a click from his tongue
accompanied with a wink.

"Maurice McDonough." Eyeing the man for he knew Kimber
some time. "Well met Ryder, Elliot. A pleasure JD." He knew of her also as he
was around enough to greet them properly.

"Pleasure to meet you Maurice." His name very familiar of
course hearing their sister speak of her friends here in Heathfield.

Glance between the brothers and a roll of her eyes. "Oh
boy." This time she chuckled, not the harsh sounding kind of earlier, genuine
humor showing for the first time in a day. Looking back to Ryder, she'd pat
her lap. "There's plenty of room." Adding to the ongoing tease. It would be
Maurice that gained her attention next. She had met one of the same last
name. "Relation to Joseph?" Simply inquired.

"Hmm" JD's comment would bring about a raised brow.
"Joseph, eh? Met him the other night." Remembering that name as well now.

"Brother Joseph." He stood away from the bar. Ice was a
much larger man then even Joseph but if she met Rory she would recognize the
resemblance there. "Son Rory, daughter Sarah."

"I've met Joseph, and briefly Rory. They were a bit busy
with their wenches." Look at that smirk which began to rise. She had no idea
if they were their women or not, but the look in the women's eyes would state
it was a definate want on their part. Or so the swashbuckler would assume.
No one ever claimed her thinking to be right or justifiable.

Elliot snapped his fingers, eagerly nodding. "They were
both here last night. Friendly, though they were in a bit..." JD's remark
left him to cut of his words and turn away with a laugh. d**n woman.

He knew Rory was attracted to a certain bit of a lass and
about time but he knew Joseph too well to know there was nothing more than
association. Man was just getting out again. "Good to hear." Only comment to
makeas he lifted his glass for a long drink.

glance towards Elliot with that laugh and she'd just grin.
Would he ever get use to her forwardness? Slowly she stood from her seat upon
the arm of his chair. "I'm in need of some fresh air." Stated more to him
than the others, though it was stated that all could hear.

"Well." Stretching and as JD rose so did he. "I think I
need to be heading back to the manor to speak with my friend." A meaningful
glance to her, since she knew what he meant. "I'll see you all at a later
time. Good evening all." Waving to his brother and Maurice he picked up his coat
from the peg and held the door open for JD if she was leaving just then.

A nod to Elliot, she did indeed know to what he spoke. A
glance then to Ryder and Maurice. "Evening to you both. Until we meet again."
Turning, she'd head towards the door, pausing to look up at Elliot. "Rumors
are going to fly now." Winking up at him with a grin, then out the door
she'd step.

"Not saying a word." Came his quiet reply as he stepped
out behind her and shut the door.