Hawkes of the Sea: a pirate fantasy

[sojournerwolf]

Jeremiah Hawke

(I originally posted here about the time wildxfire was posting and it is in conflict with his post...will post again soon once I've read that over.)

 

[BLACK BART]

I stand holding the bloody sword, its shaft so recently imbedded on Antonio's breast, and look in wonder at My Captain.

"It seemed as if he wished for his own death" I say in amazement, gazing at where he had stumbled in his last steps.

"And his face bears a smile, which I cannot fathom" I state, noticing how Antonio's hand had grasped the spanish dancers, in its last motion.

"My head spins, and I yearn for strong drink, to cure it" I state, sheathing the now unneeded weapon.

"Captain, after safe return of your ladies, may we honor this mans request, and one of my own." I inquire of Jeremiah, directing the door guards to gently remove their bodies.

"It seems in his death, he found honor, in which we should return." I say, still puzzled by the last few minutes outcome.

 

[Clarrissa]

The Summons

The events of this day have been a heavy weight upoon my soul. No revelation about the truth of Elizibeth's safety has been given and Moniques vision has been foreboding.

My pacing grows relentless as the agitation from this feeling of helplessness presses upon me.

The captains orders to dress for a trip to the isle interior at least gives me something to do.

My Noire, his eyes show his emotions although his face does not. He is troubled and I feel his sense of fear? No not fear, never fear with him, more a resignation to what fate has in store. His embrace comforts me now when i need it most

A boone for a moment with his sister. Aye I would grant it but I still fear she is not all she appears, my apprehention is evident in my face but I step to the corridor to await his return.

Pacing the halls I hear a commotion, The Black Raven attacks our captain? How can this be is she mad? My head aches as my temples pound. I fear this day will see us to our graves.

Black making light of this attack i can see his anger evident. I do not intrude but await in the halls for his return. I hear the captain request both our presense.

Entering the hall I watch the Captain closely. His heart is heavy and he is in much need of sleep.

The turn of events that unfolds is beyond belief. I watch in amazed horror as Antonio carries Maria's body into the Hall. His stride is sure but his eyes are wild with emotions.

His request for a befitting buirial is commendable. In that instant he seemed almost happy.
His next action leaves me shaken, his attack on Black is almost without skill, the intent evident, to end his life.

I move and stand behind my Noire, the confusion on your face.
Placing my hand upon your arm "Tell me Noire, is it over?"

 

[sojournerwolf]

Jeremiah Hawke

The sheer swiftness of the past few moments has left me stunned. Verily, all within the hall seem to be frozen into sort of fugue out of time.

All save the two corpses which lie, hands together, upon the floor.

Softly, as if from a distance, I hear myself speaking.

"Is love indeed such a force as to overcome sorcery, even rage?"

I glance at Bart and Clarissa, and feel within my own heart the love of a woman not with us. In that moment, I realize that mayhap it is not the philosophers who have the gist of what it means to be human, but rather the poets.

Rising, I call for the guards. "Bear these two to the chapel, with honor and respect. Set their biers close together and put out the call that flowers be gathered, and green and living things from the forest to bedeck them ere we commit them to a final resting."

As the guards remove the bodies, I smile at Clarissa's suggestion, and Bart's, of drinks. With my own hands, I pour them and set them upon the table.

Turning to Clarrissa and Bart, I bid them take their seats.

"Aye, Bart. We will indeed give them an honorable rest. And I will hear your request as well. But first, there are other matters to attend.

"Yon magician has indicated we will be led towhere Elizabeth and the Lady Amanda are being held."

At the widening of their eyes as the words of the magician about my new found love find enlightenment, I nod and continue.

"We will seek them shortly. But first, I must needs share with the two of you something that I would have you think upon, and help me to reach a decision which may affect us all."

With that, I pull from the pouch the letter recently received and open it again.

"I received this when picking up mail from landfall during our recent forays."

OOC: text of letter to follow

 

[sojournerwolf]

Jeremiah Hawke

Be it known, whereas Jeremiah Hawke, heir to the lands and title of the earldom of Hawke Heights, and associates have engaged upon the unlawful pillage of maritime trade including those ships flying the flag of Great Britain, said persons have been declared outlaws and pirates by the Lord High Admiralty and Parliament.

Yet, it has not escaped the attention of our Majesty that said depredations have been focused for the most part upon foreign ships, especially those carrying on the evil trade of slavery which is at odds with the laws of Great Britain.

Upon taking counsel with the Lord High Admiralty, the House of Lords and the House of Commons, the Governors of our colonies in the Islands, and diverse other counselors, a decision has been reached to proffer pardon for past crimes and misdemeanors to said Jeremiah Hawke and associates under the following conditions:

One, Jeremiah Hawke and such of his associates has he deems representative of his band, shall present themselves to the Governor of Jamiaca where, under the soveign protection of His Majesty, they shall be conveyed to London.

Two, The aforementioned Jeremiah Hawke and associates shall then come before a joint session of the House of Lords and the House of Commons, to take an oath binding them and those who serve them to foreswear any and all acts of piracy upon ships bearing the British flag.

Three, to atone for past crimes and misdemeanors against the Crown, Jeremiah Hawke and his associates who take this oath, and those they represent, shall likewise accept a commission under letters of maquis to serve His Majesty and the government of Great Britain for a period of not less than five years against designated enemies of His Majesty and the British Empire, including enforcement of regulations banning the depraved trading of human beings as slaves.

This letter and the accompanying flag to be flown upon the ship which shall bear Jeremiah Hawke and associates to Jamaica shall provide surety and safe conduct.

You are therefore, commanded to communicate assent or denial of these articles to the Governor of Jamaica no later than one year from the receipt of this missive.

God Save His Majesty the King, and Great Britian.

 

[BLACK BART]

At the reading of the proclamation, my mind is wary, for with the designs of Clarrissa's, there would be no need to fear any nation.

"Captain, my request, you may need to hear, before we make judgement on such weighty a matter" I state soberly, the events of the day still fresh in my mind.

"If you wish to repel these British, Clarrissa has the plans to do so, at her disposal. Plans for a fleet, far faster, and greater than any imagined before. But if you wish to make peace with these land folk, then I will be at your command, to watch lest they speak not the truth."

Turning to Clarrissa, I look at her in a different way, still of love, but now looking for a future together. There has been a prophecy broken this day, one of death, and another made in its place, of life. Whatever course we plotted, we would sail it together, and fulfill this new prophecy.

"Captain, friends, of this I am certain" I proclaim, raising my schooner in toast. "We will face tomorrow, together, and meet it bravely"

 

[sojournerwolf]

Jeremiah Hawke

I chuckle and turn to Clarrissa "Oh, so that was what you were doing those times I found you sketching ships down by the dock! Ah, but you never cease to amaze me, Clarrissa...and you, too, Bart.

"You know, the two of you have cost me two hundred pounds?" I grin at them. "Oh, yes. I had a bet with Elizabeth about whether the two of you would ever get together. Me, I thought ye were too pigheaded to realize what a wondrous pairing you would make! Elizabeth, I thought, was being merely sentimental, but she had the right of it."

I lift my mug. "I would much like to hear more of these ships you have planned, and mayhap this will be a deciding factor in plans for the future. For now, though, I offer a toast to the two of you, and, aye, to all of us. We have seen this day that there are no Fates. Rather we make our own way and truly, come what may, we shall face tomorrow and bravely."

We drink.

"Well," I say, "we've yet time to decide about this," I point to the paper. "First things first, we must needs go fetch my sister and the Lady Amanda."

I look out the window at the great fire burning as a signal. "Gather some of our people to go with us, for we know naught but that the magician may have some allies yet upon the isle. I will return to my quarters and signal our friends out in the jungle. Mark is there, with some of them. We will then go to meet them. Say, a quarter of an hour and meet me in the square and we will leave.

"Then, we will return here and see to the arrangements for the funeral for those now lying in state in the chapel."

I rise to leave, as does Bart and Clarrissa. The Spanish Princess looks somewhat uncomfortable. I turn to her.

"You are still under the countenance of your brother, madame," I tell her. "I would prefer it, however, if you would refrain from attacking me or my crew. If that is acceptable to you, then, I would have you go with us."

I cross to the great cabinet near the door and open it. Inside are many blades of various sizes.

"I would also see you armed, for your own safety, and for what we may meet in the jungle. Please choose among these what suits you," I say in a deliberate attempt to let Bart and his sister know that no hard feelings continue.

"A quarter of an hour, then, my friends!" I say and stride out of the hall to my quarters, the garden, and the log.

 

[BLACK BART]

Turning to Clarrissa, I take her head in hand, and lower my head, brushing her sweet lips gently. Then releasing her, I turn to my sister, and in a teasing voice, warn her.

"Sister, tis time we had a talk, lest you forget the rules of this isle, and embarress us with your pixish actions. Surely you realize, how near death you came with my Captain, but minutes ago? Only the gravity of the moment, and his ability to reason in battle, saved your life. But be warned, play with him again and I will use the flat of my sword, upon your fair backside, then turn you over to the Captain, for him to deal with you as he sees fit."

Hands upon my hips, I stand towering over her, her stature not in the least shaken at my bellowing. Then with a grin, I reach out and tussle her hair, telling her.

"As a child, tis true, you were always the one to take the chances, and use your charm upon the boys. I think you will keep us all on our toes, as we meld our lives together"

Returning my attention to Clarrissa, I reach for her hand and ask her assistance.

"Come my love, and let us prepare, for the release of your Captain, and the burial of our honored opponents"

 

[THEBRAT]

The Black Raven

Yes Captian Hawke I will come with you to release Eizabeth & Amanda.Hawke I will not attack you again or any of your Sister's or your crews.

What I did before had to be done to break the prophacy completely I had already started to break the Prophacy.

When I had Enchanted our Father's Sword it would only work if I gave of my very life unselfishly.

Bart tis true that as a Child I was a handful for our parents to try to control me always getting into trouble.

 

[sojournerwolf]

Jeremiah Hawke

I return to my quarters. Amanda is not there, despite my request. But then, this is known from what the magician related. I wonder for a moment if he managed to abduct her or if it was her own choice to go on some idea she might be able to dissuade him from her plans.

That Heracles glowers at me from where he is chained, methinks answers that question. I release the great half wolf, half hound and he follows me with a grumbling snarl as I stride into the garden and seat myself before the log.

Several minutes later, I have finished the message and wait to hear the reply. It comes softly through the jungle, as smoke through fog, but is nonetheless discernible. Those with Mark will tell him to meet us where the great fire burns. Others will join us along the way.

I rise and stretch, still somewhat puzzled over the days events. Changing into clothing appropriate to the journey, I begin to leave when it strikes me.

The story of the great lizard or snake...the magician said nothing of its disposal. I arm myself carefully and send guards to tap off some more of the components of the greek fire, should we encounter such a creature.

Leaving my quarters, I walk to the town square where chosen members of the crew join me. Giving orders for the security of our town and the preliminary preparations for the burial to come, I realize there is yet time ere Black Bart and Clarissa join me. I walk back to the Hall, Heracles at my side, to check on Monique and de la Vega.

They are resting, though Monique seems restless. I tell them that the threat has ended, and briefly what occurred in the Great Hall, and that I am taking a party to fetch back Elizabeth and Amanda. I bid them rest and not exert themselves, that we shall be back, hopefully, in but a short while.

Looking at them, I am again brought to the thought of just how powerful love may be in the face of adversity.

 

[MtnAngelWV]

Amanda Lancaster

His hands are gently stroking my bosom.. Lips are tugging at my earlobes as I feel his hot breath whispering against my neck. The wind blows our entwined hair into the cool ocean breeze. We are sailing and yet there is no vessel beneath us. No waves of water sets on the journey. Our only mode of transportation is a soft white cloud. His words of love are tinged with the hunger he feels for me.

Lightly I whisper his name into the darkened night, "Jeremiah......."

As I say this one word I look into his eyes. Suddenly, his form is transformed into a mishapened demon. His eyes blaze as fiery as the depths of hell. Then I remember the Magician, knowing that it is he in front of me. I beg with him to free Elizabeth and me. Plead with him to return us to our one true love.

"Jeremiah!" The piercing scream can be heard deep into the night.

 

[Azerin]

Mark

Outside the camp, I bid farewell with the young natives who has accompanied me on that mission. Watching them dissapear into the jungle, i feel a slight pang of guilt, that so many men had died that firey death. But then again, they were soldiers, who knew that in each mission, they would risk their lives. And this time, they paid for it.

Walking towards the town square, i see Jeremiah standing amounst some other men. i quickly walk up to him.

"It is done, Captain. The ship were ancored actually quite close to here, and did not take too long to find. when i got there, the men on the ship were getting ready setting sail. back to spain, i would think. The loss of their commander really destrupted them. I did what you told me to do, and it worked. most of the men on the ship burned to death, wether on the ship or in the water. the rest were snatched up by the sharks... i think the blood in the water is what got them killed."

 

[The_high_king]

Can i join?

If i can join, then I will post my character later. For now I can tell you that he is a master thief, and one hell of a marksman. He is a good guy though.

 

[Clarrissa]

Watching Black and his sister I can't help but chuckle. I am sure they made a formidable pair that vexed their parents sorely.

The soft sweet kiss of my love brings me out of my musings, gladly taking his hand we proceed to see for the arraingements of those who have departed this world.

It greives me to see Maria amoungst those who we shall say our final goodbyes too. Her spirit shall linger here in these halls, a firey spirit of strenght.

There has been much sadness this past day, but much happiness as well.

I watch my Noire under guarded lashes, I can see his mind working but to what end. I had not been ready yet to tell our Captains of my plans but now must hurry to finish the plans. If we are to remain free upon this isle we will need every advantage.

My thoughts return to the Captains comment, so they laid odds upon us my love, to see if we would realise our fate and admit more than friendship. I am most please with the outcome of the day, but a bit vexed others saw what I could not.

Moving through the halls I gently squeeze your hand slightly, smiling up at you, "So my love your Captain lost his bet, ye don't think my Lady Captain should extract payment of another sort from him do ye?" a devilish grin twinkles in my eyes.

 

[BLACK BART]

My mind still reels, from the death of one I had called brother, then enemy, and now plan to bury....The events of the past days, have revealed many truths to me, to my heart, and my eyes.

For decades I have lived only for the moment, caring not to plan for the future, content to leave that to others such as my Captain.

My mind dwells on this, and the words spoken by sister, of a birth replacing a death. Again I have no answers, for this question, and know not who to turn to. The only truths that remains constant is my obligation to my Captain and the mates that serve his will, and to Clarissa.

Turning to her, I see her sweet face and smile, the first thing that brings me happiness stands in front of me.

"Come, My Rissa, our Jeremiah needs us, to aid him with his sister, and his.....lady. Tis time we attend to our duties, and help the living, the time to tend to the dead will follow"

Still dressed for battle we return to where Jeremiah waits, his face grim, his eyes showing the concern he will not admit.

"Captain, we await your word, let us return those dear to you, and us as well." I suggest, his head turning towards us and nodding.

 

[THEBRAT]

The Black Raven

I walk up to Clarrissa I hold out my hand out to her and say I have always wanted a Sister.

Bart could not have chosen a more Beautiful Woman than you!

Yes Clarrissa Bart & I we were both a Joy & Trial to our parents.

If they could not find us they always asked where there was trouble brewing and that was were they always found us.

 

[The_high_king]

Creeps

ic: I shroud myself in a dark cloak. Watching The Raven, every move he made, and every step he took. My orders were clear, to observe the Raven's action, and report anything out of the ordinary to the Goldmoon thieves guild. My second order was to keep him alive. To make sure no one tries to assassinate Raven. Raven however, didn't even know I was there, he didn't even know I existed. It was better this way.

ooc: I got your back

 

[divinity]

jezebella

well somehow i screwed up and my postimgs have gone elsewhere! so i will try again.

My heart went cold at the sound of a long ago remembered voice. My time was growing near but not just yet. The one for whom I will destroy his love knows nothing of my precense yet.......oh but it is drawing near my precious one. The time is gowing near.

My blackness began turning into snow white, as pure as love.

 

[divinity]

jezebella

do you feel me black bart? i know you do but you are unsure. you wonder............. what are you feeling?

it is something not felt for a long time.

are you hungry from desire black bart? do you feel the gnawing in your belly?


your mind defys you black bart. i feel it.............

your desire is relentless..........

 

[sojournerwolf]

Jeremiah Hawke

OOC: Hmm...might want to point out, Raven is a woman in this thread.

IC: I meet with Mark in the square after leaving Monique and de la Vega.

"Well done, Marcus," I say, clapping him on the shoulder, after he has told of his deeds. "the threat to this island may be near at end, at least this one. It is grievous, I know," I say somberly, "that some gave their lives to help you accomplish your task. Yet, they died defending their home, and for them, that is heroism indeed. They will not forget your part in this. And we will honor them upon our return. For now, though, we go to find Elizabeth and the Lady Amanda."

I look at Marcus for a moment before asking, "Did you, perchance, see any sign of a large creature while you were there?

Bart and Clarrissa come to join us, along with the Black Raven. I greet them, and lower my voice until just Bart, Clarrissa, the Black Raven, and Mark can hear me.

"We still do not know the disposal of this creature the magician spoke of. Bart, methinks it might be best if you brought your great sword.," I gesture to the crew members carrying the flagons marked red and green. "I am likewishe bringing the elements of the greek fire, should we need them."

Gathering all together, I point to the great pillar of fire beckoning us. "Well, me fine fellows, let us be off!"

With that we enter the jungle, sticking to the paths. Yet, around us, all can sense the natives, following unseen, our allies keeping watch for dangers that might approach us unawares.

 

[The_high_king]

Creeps

I follow the small group. Jumping from tree to tree, without making a sound. I look through the thick leaves of the tree that I was on. On the tree left to me I could see a man with a dart gun aiming for the Raven. I quickly take out my short bow, and I send a bodkin arrow right through the side of his head. He falls from the tree, right in front of the Raven, "crap! I screwed up". I quickly scamper off to the jungle floor, since the small group would be looking up, trying to find the man who killed him. I step into a shadow of a large tree. Dissapearing from everyone's view. I was practically invisible.

 

[THEBRAT]

The Black Raven

I hear an almost silent sound a slight twang and a dead man falls in front of me with a bodkin through his head.

I ask Hawke if The Dead Man is one of the Natives that was supposed to be protecting us?

I am getting a very bad feeling about this!I don't ask Hawke this time I tell him is there anyway to get in contact with his Foster Father NOW!

I take Hawke Mark Bart & Clarrissa aside! I whisper to them that someone from The Goldmoon Thieves Guild I do not know why they are fallowing me!

But my guess is that they have hidden something in My Ship something of Very Great Value the only place that they could have hidden it would be in The Figure Head of The Raven!

 

[Nemo200]

i was wondering if i can join this tread ? i can be one of the
captives ..

 

[The_high_king]

Creeps

ic: I continue you follow closely. Looking for other attempts of murder. I follow closely, without making a sound. Hope they don't think to much of the dead body. I hope they don't know about me. To be honest, I didn't even know why the guild chose me, they didn't fill me up with details. They just gave me my orders, and told me to go do it. At least I'm getting paid for this.

 

[The_high_king]

excuse me

ooc: please excuse my paranoia of threads being forgotten. It's not a really good habit, I know.