6 comments/ 21853 views/ 7 favorites Queen of the Sea Ch. 01 By: Lady_Katka Lighting flashed and the thunder crashed with a loud BOOM, making her jump and hug her mother's leg. She was comforted to feel her mothers hand stroke her hair while she pressed her face into the tattered skirts that her mother always wore. "It will be alright my little one, it can't hurt you, you are safe and cozy inside the house" came her mother's soft rich voice. The house was more of a shack than anything, it also leaned whichever way the wind blew. This storm was making the walls shake and the roof rattle, but hearing her mothers words made her relax. Her father just stood by the window staring out at whatever it was he was watching, she was never quite sure why he watched so intently, there was never anything there. "Go say goodnight to your papa" her mother whispered. She didn't need to be told twice, she loved her papa more than anything in the world. She pulled on his trousers to get his attention away from the window. He looked down away from the window, into her small innocent face. He smiled. "Well my kitten" He always called her kitten, because he thought her green eyes were catlike, teased her about it all the time. She always laughed when he did. "It seems like the end of another day, you should be in bed" He put his hands under her arms and lifted her up in his strong arms, carrying her to her little bed, which was really just straw stuffed into a sack. He pretended to drop her and then catch her, making her giggle. "You be a good little girl and go straight to sleep now" Her eyelids already heavy, "I will papa, I love you" "I love you too kitten" He said lightly touching his fingertip to her nose with a smile. Turning to leave her to sleep. She fell asleep quickly. CRASH!!! A loud noise that didn't sound anything like what the thunder sounded like woke her up. The house was dark, but when she looked she could see bobbing lights outside. She wasn't awake enough to realize they were torches. Her father rushed in and picked her up quickly, his eyes wide with fear, fear for her safety. "Shhhh kitten, don't make a sound, you have to stay hidden until it is all over. No matter what happens don't come out, don't make a sound. Remember your papa loves you." He whispered urgently as he hid her behind a false wall. She never even knew there was such a thing. Not wanting to say anything even though she was more afraid then ever before, she just nodded. He closed the wall, but she could still peek out a small crack between the boards. She saw a large man enter the room, followed but a few others carrying torches to light the room. They were all wearing very bright red coats, they would have been pretty if they weren't so frightening. "Trying to escape? You should no there is no escape for you Robert. You gave us a good chase for a few years but you had to know we would catch you eventually. You are scheduled to be hung by the neck until dead for your crimes against the crown." A glint caught her eye, she looked and saw a shiny sword in the man's hand, it was a very sharp, well looked after sword. "But seeing as you made an escape before, I do not think I will risk transporting you again." He says in a coldly and calmly. Then before she could even close her eyes, the man in red stepped forward, sliding the sword through her fathers body as if it was warm butter. She covered her mouth with her hand, she was told not to make a sound, but she could not take her eyes off what had just happened. Her father bent over the sword, its end coming out his back. The man in red pushed him off, and he fell to the floor with a thud. The man cleaned his sword on her father's clothes, putting it back in the sheath. "You won't be any more trouble now" he said with an evil sounding chuckle. She could feel the hot tears sliding silently down her face. She waited until the men left, before daring to come out of her hiding place. Her mother was nowhere to be found. After she looked for her mother she went back to her fathers body. Kneeling down beside him, his body still warm to the touch, blood starting to pool on the floor. She cried against her fathers chest, until she was to tired to continue. She spent the whole night beside her father. The next morning, she found her courage, rose to her feet, lit a lantern with what was left of the fire in the hearth. She poured kerosene around the house before walking out. Standing in front of the place she called home. She threw the lantern into the house with all her might. The fire burning the small shack quickly. She stood there just watching it burn. The heat and smoke burned her eyes, but she did not cry. She would never cry again. ................. Leaning against the railing of the ship, feeling the soft ocean breeze on her face, the sweet smell of water and salt filling her nostrils, the soft lapping of the waves against the hull soothing her as she stood there with her eyes closed, lost in her thoughts. The noise of the crew doing their tasks behind her seemed far away as her mind drifted in her memories. Walking up almost silently behind her was a man, quite large, his muscles bulging in his arms, easily seen as he didn't wear a shirt with sleeves, only a vest. Bald with dark eyes, earring in one ear, dark tan, and tall. He had a pistol on one hip and a cutlass put through the belt of his trousers on his other side. However he looked strong enough to kill a man without even touching his weapons, his hands were big enough to crush a skull without much effort. She was seemingly unaware of his presence. At least he thought she was until her voice broke the silence between them, "Did you need something?" He froze in his steps. "Yes... Captain." He said his voice revealed his respect for his captain, as well as a little fear. Just the way she liked it. "The men wanted to know, well they wished to know...." "Spit it out, I haven't all day! I know you all want to know something but you were the unfortunate one who drew the short straw and had to ask so what is it. Speak and have it done with" She said turning to face him. Her hair tucked under a large tri-corner hat. Face was tanned yet still pale enough to look white, dark red lips, her feminine form covered with male sailing clothes, large leather boots, and a dark long coat. Her weapons, at least the ones you could see included a cutlass in a sheath on her left side, a pistol on the right, two more pistols that she wore on a holster that went across her chest. She also had several weapons that could not be seen, a sharp dagger hidden in each boot, as well as one down the waist of her trousers in the back, and a stiletto blade that kept her hair up on top of her head under her hat. A girl must always be prepared, especially when on a ship crewed by men, pirates at that. Her bright eyes seemed to turn dark as her gaze penetrated him. He took a step back. "We was wonderin' when we would going to port. We are wantin' to spend some of our share of the plunder" "Soon enough, within the next day or two if the winds stay with us. You will have spent your share on ale and friendly women before you know it" She said turning back to look at the ocean. "The others will be happy to hear it, thank you Captain." he said hurrying away. "We plunder enough for everyone to have a small fortune yet not a single one of them has a penny to their name. It all goes to the tavern, whether it be drink or women." Shaking her head "Fools and their money I suppose, but it keeps me in a crew willing to do anything to have a little more, can't complain to much about that" Sighs and turns around on her heel and walks quickly to her cabin to look over charts and maps. Closes the door behind her, no need to lock it as the crew knows any man who enters her cabin without permission would be shot dead before the door was even open fully. She takes off her hat, and removes the stiletto, her long blonde locks flow down her back as she shakes it out. Removes her heavy coat as well before she sits at her table. The table is covered with maps and charts, cannot even see the dark wood of the table. She searches through the paper before she finds the instrument she needs to measure the distance on the chart. Leaning over the chart, calculating the distance they have covered, yet to cover, and thinking about where to head next. She will not know for sure until they reach port as she has to find out what trade ships will be in the area, and she knew just how to do that. ................. "I hate pirates!" came the loud cry of Captain Bruce Carlix from the longboat as he tried to drag it onto the beach. Even with the help of the soldiers the longboat was heavy, it took all of their strength, at least what was left of it. This would normally be a task for many more men, and would be done in short order but there was only six of them, and they are lucky to be alive. He could still hear the cannons being fired, could hear the splitting of the wood, see the smoke, smell the gunpowder. The cries of his men as they died still rung clearly in his ears, the sound would haunt a normal man, but he was one of the Royal Navy's finest officers, death didn't bother him. What bothered him was he allowed a pirate to get the best of him and sink his ship. He would have been at the bottom of the sea if he hadn't been dragged out by a few survivors of his ship. The reason they survived was because as soon as the first shot sounded, these cowards lowered a longboat to escape, they were deserting, like rats fleeing a sinking ship he thought to himself bitterly. He would normally punish deserters, the ones he could catch anyway, with severe flogging, but he could not flog these men because if they hadn't been cowards he would not be alive. "We all hate pirates Captain, but they took us by surprise, how were we to know they would ambush us like that, especially under the cover of darkness." "Because they are pirates, they don't play by the rules of fair play. They are cowards the whole lot of them!" His face bright red with anger. "Lets find some fresh water, we will rest for until tomorrow, then we will make our way back home, we were not to far away from port when we were attacked" the other soldiers agree, as they are so weary they could just drop. Later that night, once everything grew dark, he lied on his back, hands behind his head staring up at the stars. "I vow to see those pirates hanged. No matter what it takes, I will track them down and see justice done." .................. "Bloody weather set us back" she says to her quartermaster. "Aye, added a week to the journey, but on the other hand we lost a few crew members which makes the rest of the shares greater." "Always thinking about the bottom line to line your pockets with gold aren't you Will" she says with a smile. He sounded cold when he talked that way, but it was probably how the rest of the men were feeling as well. Besides when joining a pirate crew you are not signing up for a life that will lead you into old age. They knew the risks, but it was a shame they died because of a storm and not a battle, as that is how most of us want to die. Live and die by our swords, we do not want to be hanged, we want to die in a glorious battle. None of us were going to mourn the loss of these souls for very long. "LAND HO" comes the call from the crows nest. She reaches into the pocket of her coat and takes out her spy glass. Pulling it to its full length and putting it to her eye, it is true there was land in the distance. They would be in port before nightfall, to the relief of the crew as well as herself. She wanted to unload the plunder, as it was causing her ship to sit low in the water with its weight. The ship will be a lot faster once they unload, she would also like to hire a few more hands, due to the storm robbing her of good sailors. It was dusk when they finally dropped anchor. I swing down to the pier by a rope, the dock master eager to greet me. "Kit, it has been a long time. What have you brought for me today, you know I will give you a good deal on all your goods that you have shipped in." He grins with a wink. "Of course, you always do, I couldn't ask for anymore. Well I could but I am a realistic person." she says with a little laugh then begins to list off all the things she has in the ship. They include, cotton, calico, silk, as well as miscellaneous items taken from the ships. He nods, and calculates how much that would be worth and how much he will pay her for it. He gives her the money, she lets the quarter master hand out the shares while she over sees the off loading. The crew eager to get to their shore leave. ................. Carlix was never so happy to see the lights of a town, as they had been walking for days, but it felt like years. He was eager to have a good meal, and a good drink, after that he would sleep better than he had in a long time. He knew he would be given credit at the tavern and inn, he was after all a member of the Royal Navy, nobody would turn him away. Tomorrow he will work on getting another ship, with another crew and start tracking down those filthy pirates. He looked down at himself, he hoped they recognized him as a member of the navy because he had taken off his signature red coat long ago, it was much to hot in the sun to wear, and he knew he would be issued another when he got to a town. He was to focussed on food and drink to bother with that now. He nearly stumbled into the tavern. The room was dark, poorly lit and it was obvious why, the place was unkempt. Tables were wobbly and cracked, they were in desperate need for new ones, the floor was dirty, and sticky from pints of ale being spilled on it and not cleaned up properly, and it was in dire need of a new coat of white wash on the walls. The food smelled wonderful, and he was in no position to be picky. He sits at the only available table, orders a mug of ale and a plate of roasted meat. The bar maid brings his order quite quickly as she tries to keep up with her duties. Only once he has quenched his thirst and put some proper food in his belly does he take notice of the rowdy crowd. Most of the customers were men, obviously sailors who had just been payed. All were drinking and quite a few had painted up women sitting in their laps. They were laughing and running their fingers over the heads of the men. These women were those whose friendly company could be purchased for a price. It seemed they had no problem finding customers tonight, and these men will have spent their pay by first light if they are not careful. Carlix shook his head in disgust, he never did understand the appeal of paying for a woman's company and attention. Any respectable man would not spend his hard earned coin on a woman who is only interested in a man until his money runs out, then turns her attention to the next man with a shiny round coin. He was only interested in respectable women, modest women, someone who he could show off on his are in high society. Before he was done his meal, he is interrupted by a few sailors who have obviously been here to long and have spent to much money on the ale. They pull up chairs and sit hard, one on each side of him. "Evening sailor" says one his eyes only half open, a sloppy grin on his face. "What brings you to this fine establissssshment tonight" says the other slurring his words and laughs about it. Before Carlix can even try to tell them that he just wants to enjoy a meal in peace. The other starts talking again, "You don't look like a pirate, or at least one that has gotten payed, you aren't enjoying yourself enough for that" "You out of work? There are plenty of ships hiring down at the pier. ‘Dark Waters' is even looking for hands, so if she has openings I am sure others do as well. You should go look for work there in the next few days, that is unless you enjoy having empty pockets" Carlix opens his mouth to speak but before he can get any words out, two painted women come to the table, cooing at each of the men on his sides. "Oh here you are, we were wondering where you two handsome men had gone, come with us, we have something fun planned" They walk away and the two sailors eagerly chase after them. The women squealing with what would seem like delight. ‘Dark Waters' is here.... well that is something. If his memory served him that was the name of the ship that ambushed him. He saw the name in the moonlight while he floated in the water as it was sailing away. The winds may have just changed, to favour him. He smiled for the first time since his ship sank. He goes to his room at the inn, a plan already forming in his mind. ................. The sun shone brightly through the cracks in the shudders, the light streamed across Carlix's eyes. They fluttered open, he squinted at first, then rubbing the sleep from his face vigorously with both hands, swinging his feet out of bed, more than eager to get the day under way, after all it was time to put his plan into action. He doesn't use the wash basin in his room, he doesn't want to look clean in anyway. He dresses in his clothes that he still has, not planning on getting new ones anymore. These tattered ones are more appropriate for what he has in mind anyway, he doesn't bother to wear his boots, choosing to go barefoot instead. He glances in the looking glass, once he is satisfied with his appearance he leaves the inn. Walking down to the docks, he makes sure to walk with a slower gate, slouching a little, trying to look unkempt and improper, well at least to the eyes of high society. He takes his time going from ship to ship, talking with anyone willing to talk with him. Not just talking about the ships, but the weather, the women and whatever else comes up. He starts to ask about a job, some turn him down flat, others consider him and even offer to hire him. He sees a large ship with the words Dark Waters written on the stern. That is the ship he is interested in, the one he has come for, the one that vexes him and invades his dreams nightly. He stops the dock master, points to it and asks "I heard she was hiring, true?" "Aye, it be true, but you don't want to work on that ship" he says not taking his eyes off his log book, going over some numbers. Carlix grabs his shirt and shakes him slightly making sure he is paying close attention. "I need to be hired on that ship. Who do I speak to? Tell me." The dock master points to the man standing near the ship, "His name is Will, he is the quartermaster." Carlix nods and lets him go. Walking over to Will, he is much larger than Carlix, he appears very strong, but his size indicates he may be slow. Someone who looks very intimidating none the less, shouldn't underestimate him, probably smarter than he looks. There is a reason why he is the quartermaster, and not someone else, can't possibly be his size alone. "Good day, I hear you be hiring, this be true?" Carlix asks putting a smile on his face, wanting to get off on the right foot, as he needs to be hired. "Aye, it be true. What of it?" comes the gruff answer from Will. "I have come for a position on this fine crew." "Have you ever sailed before?" "I am an experienced sailor" Carlix said confidently as it was true and he was proud of it. "Who have you sailed under?" "Who have I sailed under? Uhhhh.... well" he fidgets nervously knowing he cannot tell the truth, as that would reveal himself as a member of the navy. He quickly racks his brain to remember a pirate captain, any would be fine. While he thinks Will crosses his large arms in front of his barrel chest, flexing his muscles slightly for effect. He better come up with an answer and fast. "Boswain, sailed under him for years" he says nervously hoping this is an acceptable answer. "Boswain, I knew him, shame what happened to him.... oh well" Will says brushing it off to Carlix's surprise, has this man no feelings. He knew Boswain had been captured, executed and put on display as a warning to other pirates, yet this man showed no emotion over a fallen comrade. These pirates were savages, barbarians, no feelings for one of their own, despicable. Queen of the Sea Ch. 01 "Well just because you can sail, doesn't mean you will be useful on this ship, you are aware of what signing on to this crew would entail?" "I am good with a sword, sturdy in battle" Will looks him up and down not entirely convinced he should give the job to this man. He opens his mouth to speak again, but the voice that sounds through the air is not his own, but one behind him, "Will we need all the hands we can hire stop giving him such a hard time, save it for when we are out on the open water" Carlix looks past the large man in front of him, and for the first time sees a figure sitting atop a pier post. Looking this fellow over, he was wearing large brown boots, trousers that tucked inside them, large coat with a shirt underneath, several weapons attached to a belt. His elbows on his knees holding a sharp knife in his hand whittling some wood. Carlix wasn't sure if he was actually whittling anything in particular or just shaving wood to demonstrate prowess with a dagger and how sharp it was. Either way this fellow held the knife as if he was born with it in his hand, just an extension of his limb. Looking down at his hands, his hat blocking the view of his face. He seemed a little small, but he was probably really quick on his feet. Sometimes it is the small ones that are better fighters than the large strong ones, and need to be watched doubly careful. Carlix wasn't sure why he hadn't seen this man sitting there, perhaps Will was blocking his view, or he was so focussed on speaking with the large quartermaster he wasn't paying attention, but he noticed now. He jumped down from the pier, landing with more grace than he had ever seen out of any of his soldiers. Knife still in hand walking towards him. Carlix didn't back down, not from this man, he didn't seem much of a threat. "You are hired." says the small fellow "I thought it was Will who was doing the hiring" Carlix says, surprised Will was allowing a much weaker man go over his head. Will just laughs and replies "This be the captain." For the first time since laying eyes on the little man, he raises his face to greet him. Bright green eyes meets with his dark brown ones. He gasps softly but audible "You are a woman." "Names Kit, but if you have ever heard a story about The Queen of the Seas, that is me as well. I do enjoy being called that, but Captain will be fine" She looks him over for a moment, raising the knife up, placing the point to the bottom of his chin, and suddenly her eyes turned menacing, sending a chill over his entire body. "You don't have a problem taking orders from a woman do you?" Her tone itself was threatening, didn't even need the knife he thought, but the feeling of the cold blade tip pressing firmly against his skin was more than enough to make him whisper, fearing to open his mouth to wide "No, no problem at all.... Captain" "Good" comes her reply as she takes the knife quickly away again, the threatening and menacing captain changing back to a calm and friendly sailor. Carlix sighs in relief and swallows his fear hard. Perhaps he was getting in over his head. .................... Carlix got used to the routine of the ship quickly, he was surprised at how quick and efficient these men were at their duties. They were not quite up to military standard, but they were damn good. He had always thought of pirates as lazy, drunk and stupid, but he had to admit Kit ran a tight ship. She didn't let anyone get away with not pulling their weight, she was a tough captain. He knew she was probably one of the toughest on the open water, and with good reason, being the only woman on a ship, would be very hard as they are generally considered bad luck. The first thing she would have to do is prove that her skills could out weigh any bad luck brought along by her gender, she would then need to learn how to fight, and become good, not just good enough to hold her own, she has to be better than the men, otherwise they would over power her, and take advantage of her. She would need to learn how to defend herself and quickly if she were to make it on a ship, or perhaps she joined up posing as a boy, if she did that she wouldn't have to worry about the other men, at least as long as she could keep her sex a secret. Eventually, she would not be able to hide her womanhood any longer, it would become obvious to anyone standing close to her. Even once she completed all that, to work her way up to captain would be another mountain to climb, she would not only have to be very good in a fight, win every time, but she would also have to be smart enough to make up a strategic plan as well as earn the respect of her fellow sailors, which can be the hardest task of all for a man let alone a woman. Without respect you would never be able to get a crew to sail for you, these men did fear Kit as well but fear is not a very good motivator, at least not by itself, rule by causing terror alone will cause the men to rise up and mutiny and from what he gathered, Kit had been captain for a very long time. He glanced up from his swabbing of the deck, he saw her standing at the helm, her hands resting on the giant round wooden wheel, not gripping it tightly as some do as they are nervous when controlling such a large ship, but just resting them there gently, every so often turning the wheel slightly to keep the ship on course. Her hands slide over the polished woods softly, lovingly, face full of pride as she does; he hadn't felt like that about his ship in more years than he would care to recall. He wonders to himself how he lost that feeling of pride and accomplishment. Before he reaches the conclusion to his thoughts his mop that he was leaning on is kicked out from under him and he falls to the deck. "Mind your work!" says the quartermaster roughly. "Aye, aye" he replies quickly, rushing to his feet. Picking up his mop and rubbing it across the planks of the decks, eyes on his work, not wanting to even look around because he can feel everyone's eyes on him, including hers. He feels like a complete fool, and wonders if everyone knows he was staring at Kit, hoping that they all just think he was lost in thoughts, or at the very least a day dream. By nightfall it seemed everyone had forgotten the episode between him and the quartermaster, and nobody was more relieved than Carlix. He was playing cards with a few of the other men below deck, happy to be a part of the activity, he would never able to do this on the navy ships. Even though he had always wanted to join in with the men, whether it be cards, music, betting or something else, but his high rank wouldn't allow him that freedom. On the other hand he enjoyed all the privileges his rank allowed him; balls, feasts, meeting the most eligible young ladies. Oh the ladies, each one different yet all the same, dressed up in her finery, hair curled, dresses soft to the touch, modest but still revealing their form enough to make a man know what he wanted. He was a man who always knew what he wanted, and he had even gotten it from a few different ladies. He remembered how they would act shy, laughing softly, blushing at his compliments but smiling too, he knew what they liked to hear. When he set his mind to it he could woo any woman he wished too, he was told he had quite the silver tongue. He would flatter her with his sugary words, sometimes meaning every word, sometimes just saying what he knows she wants to hear, each time they would eventually let him lead them out on the dance floor, placing there soft, small delicate hands in his larger rough ones. Pulling her close, she would feel so soft against his firm body, her feminine scent would fill his nostrils, which would only fuel his desire. With his hand around her waist, pulling her a little closer than necessary, but not a single one would protest, they were nothing but eager to be in his arms. Once the dance was over he would offer to take her for a walk in the moonlight, they always enjoyed that, thought it was romantic, for him it was an ends to a means. While on the stroll, he would take her hand pull her close and press his lips to hers, finding no resistance from her lips he knew he would get what he wished to have. He would pull away and apologize for his forward behaviour, she would blush again and tell him that it was alright, some even came right out and told him they liked it. He would pull her close again, and with her body against his he would kiss her with more passion, more urgency. She would put her arm around his neck and submit to his need. More than willing to submit to him and his desires. A smile on his lips as he remembers these encounters, knowing that he probably left many women broken hearted when they woke up to find him no longer in the bed, having gotten what he wanted from them there was no real need to stay. Besides he would be shipping out shortly, he couldn't afford to become involved with a woman, at least not while he spent almost all his time at sea. It was only when he heard the men start talking about Kit did he bring his thoughts back to the present. "Tell me about this captain of ours boys, I want to know everything." ................. "I don't trust him Captain, you shouldn't either, there is something about him..." "Will, remember who you are talking to. I don't trust anyone, so why would you think I would trust him?" "Of course, I forgot. You would be wise to keep an extra close eye on him though. I would be more than willing to throw him over board for you. Or perhaps something else first" he rubs his hands together in thought "You know help attract some sharks, end his suffering quickly so he won't drown." "You would dare take the pleasure of punishing and killing a traitor away from captain?" she says looking at him with a raised eyebrow. He shifts under her icy cold gaze "No, I would never dare to do such a thing, I would only do it if you wished." "When have I ever wished anyone to do a task I could easily do myself, let alone a task I enjoy?" "Never, Captain" "And I never will" she says with a confirming nod. "Anyone who crosses me will meet certain doom." This time Will nods, he knows this to be true, having seen it for himself. It was true what he had heard said about women, hell hath no fury. He was a very large strong man with excellent fighting skills, but he knew that he was no match for the captain. He wouldn't even dare to think he was, perhaps before he saw her in the arms of battle he would have entertained the thought, but not since. He had seen the enemy gang up on her, three to one and she was the one who was victorious. She may be small compared to him but she was fast, and smart. She could find the advantage to any situation. She was fearless as well, this made her twice as deadly, because where another would balk because the situation appears to be certain death, she would rush in without so much as blinking. She did not seem to fear death, but embrace it. Perhaps it was her embrace of death that made her so deadly, not caring whether she lived or died, or maybe she was searching for death, as it has forgotten her. He wasn't certain nor would he ever ask. Standing there, hands on the railing looking out at the open water she lost herself in her thoughts, reflecting on what Will had just said to her. Perhaps they should not have let him aboard in the first place, but they had needed the extra hands at the time. However, they could get to port without him now. The question remained, what end would be suitable for such a traitor? How long should she draw it out? Of course she would have the crew watch, not only would they find it entertaining, it would also show them what would happen to them if they even thought about betraying her. That was a lesson worth repeating as well, any thoughts of betrayal or mutiny, and even abandonment would quickly be quashed. She drew her dagger. Looking down at the blade, pressing the point to the tip of her forefinger, spinning it slowly letting the sunlight glint off in a beautiful and deadly way. "Captain?" said Will in anticipation of orders. She slams the point of the dagger into the railing of the ship, it stands by itself. "All hands on deck." Her voice cool, calculating, and it gave Will a shiver down his spine. ............... "She is unlike any captain before, and I have sailed under a few, known others. She is different from them all. And not just because she is a woman, although that does make her one of a kind." says the man called Shorty. "Aye, I never thought I would see the day a woman sailed along side us men, let alone dreamed I would be taking orders from one. She has done more to prove herself worthy of her position though. No other captain has lined my pockets with more gold than Kit." says Bull shuffling his cards back and forth in his hand. "She pays well then?" asks Carlix, thinking that would be a sure fire way to get a greedy man to follow you. She is buying their loyalty, as soon as someone comes and offers them a touch more coin, they would turn their back on her. Just like a pirate, no loyalty, no honour. "We all get an equal share. It is our plunder, we earn our pay. She be the only captain I know of that doesn't take more than an equal share. They usually take more for themselves, because you know, they be the captain. Not she, no, she takes the same amount as the rest of us. She doesn't seem to be to interested in the booty though. Me thinks she's in it for the fight." "Aye, she is always disappointed when the target ship surrenders without a fight. She hides her disappointment well, but we can tell. We are not stupid" there are a few agreeing cheers. "She enjoys a fight then, she would have to be good, to not only be captain but to still be alive." says Carlix, keeping his eyes on his cards, not wanting to look at the men and reveal the extent of his curiosity. "Good? Boy she be the best any of us have ever seen. As if she be the devil himself, or would it be herself, no no himself. I have heard that she was shot square in the chest, but there is no mark." "I heard that she keeps a souvenir from each of her kills, and stores them in a large hidden cave. When she is not sailing the seas she goes back there and uses the items to torture the men's soul in the afterlife." "She let herself be captured once, as a trick, then when she was brought to the enemy's ship, she attacked and killed all who resisted her. Those who surrendered to her, she made them her new crew because she couldn't sail the ship by herself. Once she was close enough to shore to use a longboat, she killed them." "Those are just old wives tales" said Carlix with confidence. Then looking around at all the solemn faces around him, these men believed these stories to be face, her own crew. "Aren't they?" his voice shaking more than he wished. He decides to ask another question, against his better judgement but he had to know as much about her as possible. "Kit can't be her Christian name, why is she called that?" There is a long pause as the men looking at each other, obviously not wanting to speak about it. Then a voice from the shadows cuts through the silence, "It be because when some crosses her, and she is able to capture them she wants to make their death as painful as possible. She has a kit full of all her favourite torture devices. She will use each one on the man until she is satisfied with her work. She has practised her skill over many years so that the victim will not die until she chooses, no fun unless they are alive she says. If she has mercy on them she will kill them before throwing them into the ocean. If not they will be thrown in alive, sometimes tied to a rope and dragged behind the ship to catch a shark. Whenever we have a shark feast, we know someone has payed a high price for that feast, and they don't even get to enjoy it...." The men are so quiet, Carlix can hear himself and others swallow hard. "By the way, the captain wants all hands on deck. There is a traitor among us." He turns and walks back up the stairs. Queen of the Sea Ch. 02 Everyone looks around at the other men's faces, all eye flash with fear and worry as well as wonderment. Who could the traitor be? It must be one of the new men that joined when we were in port, thought some as nobody who had worked under Kit would dare betray her. They had all seen her in action, and did not want to fall to such a fate. It wasn't that she was cruel, that is unless it was deserved. That was the reason no one dared cross her, they did not want to be deserving of her anger and wrath. Once on deck, the men form a single line, standing side by side. Carlix noticed that they did not stand at attention as the men would on one of his ships, nor did they stand quite shoulder to shoulder. He tried his best to mimic their stance, shoulders down slightly slouched, eyes glancing from the crew to the captain, then to his feet. Everyone was fidgeting nervously, but Carlix didn't need to fake his nervousness, he was racking his brain trying to figure out when and how he gave himself away. He thought he had been careful. He also said a silent prayer that he die a swift death. He glanced at the captain; she was standing at the railing with her back to them. Her hands were resting on the rail; her dagger was standing up, the point stuck in the wood. Everything turns silent for a moment, so quiet that Carlix can hear the waves lapping against the ship, the flag blowing in the wind and the loud thumping of his own heart. "One of you has betrayed me." she says still not turning to face the men. Her long strong fingers wrap around the hilt of the dagger pulling it from the railing quickly and effortlessly; turning around to face them, the sharp point of her dagger pressing against her index finger. "You all know what happens to traitors." The men look straight at her, not meeting her eyes, but looking at her as she walks down the line of men. She doesn't show any emotion but is satisfied when each man holds his breath in turn, only letting it out when she walks past. Carlix watches her come closer and closer to him, he can feel the sweat rolling down his face, and the little hairs on his neck stand up. Even in the heat of the day he gets a chill. This was not how he wanted to die, and even if he fought back he would be killed by the crew, he was too outnumbered. She stops in front of Carlix, he swallows hard, so hard he swears she heard it. "I shouldn't have allowed you on my ship, but we needed the extra hands to get out of port. Since we are now at sea, you are no longer needed." Her cold tone was enough to give the whole crew chills. Carlix considered begging for his life, but no he was a naval officer and was above such things, no matter how strong the impulse. He must make his majesty proud. He stood a little straighter; his eyes closed tight, waiting for death to come. A few moments passed and Carlix wondered if he was dead but then he heard a loud thump and moan. He opened his eyes and saw the man to his left was pinned against the mast and Kit had her dagger inside him. "This is the fate of a traitor, the rest of you get back to work." Every man scrambles back to their posts or to the belly of the ship not wanting to even look at the scene in case they angered the captain. From his post Carlix sees the man who was the traitor being dragged by the quartermaster to the captain's quarters, he wasn't sure if the man was still alive or not. Nor would he dare ask such a question. That night, the crew seems to have gone on with life as normal, not even talking about what has happened. Then the ship's cook comes to them and says he is delighted to tell them that the feast was ready, and the shark is delicious. ------------------- Carlix is the last one to arrive to the feast; the men are already eating their portions hungrily. Some are talking to each other of tall tales and conquests others eat silently concentrating on their food. The sight almost makes him sick, how can these men eat this food knowing exactly how it came to be on their plates. He did not want to stand out from the crowd, especially now, so he walks up to get his meal but is stopped by a hand on his chest. He looks up the arm to see who is stopping him from eating, the hand belongs to Will. "The captain wants to see you in her quarters" he says, a serious look on his face. "It seems she has plans for you." Carlix can feel his heart skip a beat, his breath caught in his throat. After a moment he nods then turns back walking to the captain's quarters. He wondered what her plans may involve; all the scenarios he could think of did not bode well for him so he tried to push those thoughts out of his mind. The walk to the captain's door never seemed so long, every step was harder to take than the last. His feet seemed to be becoming heavier each time he picked them up to move them forward. It took what felt like an eternity to reach the door, but he finally did; he knocked not daring to even reach for the handle until he heard her respond. "Enter." His sweaty palm gripped the cool brass knob and turned it, pushing the door in. The cabin was lighted by a two large lanterns, and to his surprise was very clean, you would never know she tortured someone to death in here earlier today. There was her bed, attached firmly to the wall, it appeared smaller than the one he had on his ship, but he was not the captain of this vessel. She also had a desk, it had been sanded down smooth, and it seemed it had been crafted with a lot of care. She was standing at the desk; head looking at what he could only assume were maps and charts. She was holding some navigating instruments in her had, Carlix didn't know how to use them very well, and he always had a master navigator on his crew. He was impressed that she was doing it all herself, but then again that would only make sense. If she took on men who could do the same things she could it would be much easier for them to decide they no longer needed her as captain and thus mutiny. She was much smarter than any woman he had ever met, he hated to admit it but she was smarter than many men as well. He couldn't help but wonder where she learned all these skills. "You wanted to see me Captain" he said, doing his best to keep his voice from shaking. "Aye, that I did, have a seat" Once he sits, she turns to face him, her hat shadowing her eyes as she takes a few steps forward. "Will told you I had plans for you" she says more as a statement than a question, seeming to confirm that Will did his task as commanded. All Carlix could do was nod, still unsure of just what these plans were about, and why she was involving him. "We will be in the next port soon," she says "within the next day or so." "Aye, and we will have some shore leave, but what does that have to do with me?" he asks not even thinking before he spoke. Only realizing after the words were out of his mouth that questioning her might make her angry. To his relief she ignores the question. "You will not be going on shore leave with the other men. I have a job for you; you are the only one in the crew who can do it, that is the only reason why you were hired on to this crew. Do not disappoint me." With her last words her eyes met his and flashed with intensity, he knew to fail would mean death. ------------------------- A few days later, Carlix found himself staying at an inn. Not the one the rest of the crew would be interested in staying at, as they would spend their money on a bed that is rented by the hour. This room was expensive, and furnished even better than he expected. There was a large bed made of solid oak with a feather mattress. There was a lantern on the bedside table, and a large arm chair made to match the bed and table. A privacy screen in one corner, opposite that there was a window that allowed the light from the spectacular sunset come in making the room appear even more lovely. The view didn't disappoint either, it was spectacular, could see the harbour, as well as down the coast. He could stand there and watch the waves break against the shore for hours, but there was no time for that now. He glanced at the privacy curtain; he could hear Kit dressing herself, with the help of a hired handmaiden, behind it. They had to share a room because he was her escort, or at least that was what they were pretending. It all fell into Kit's grand scheme, and he was going along with it. He was already dressed in his outfit, it was familiar, yet slightly strange and uncomfortable. He had spent so much time wearing simple torn trousers and light white shirt he was no longer used to fancier clothes. He found the collar of his clean white shirt tight around his neck, the lace itched as well. His coat was long and dark blue with gold embroidery around the sleeves and tails. His trousers also fit snugly more so than they really should but they did belong to someone else so they would have to do for tonight. His black shoes gleamed from the polishing he gave them, he smiled with pride as he looked at them. He glanced back up towards the privacy curtain, which due to the darkening room and the lantern behind it he could see Kit's silhouette. He was taken aback; she had a lovely feminine form. She was slender, the curve of her hips were alluring. Her hair fell down her back, it was the first time he had seen it, even in shadow, and he hadn't known she had long hair. He could not help but watch as the handmaiden helped Kit with her corset, tightening up the laces in the back, accentuating the curves of her upper body. All he could think was; she is beautiful. When Kit stepped out from behind the curtain Carlix gasped audibly, she had transformed in appearance completely. Her hair was not only long but was golden, and it curled slightly. She had pulled most of it up behind her head but some still hung down her back and a few wisps framed her face. Her eyes were not icy but entrancing, they sparkled emerald green; her dark red lips looked soft he thought as he realized he wished to test their softness with his own lips. Once his gaze travelled further down her body from her face, he saw her long neck and the pale skin just above her chest. The hat and large male clothing she always wore protected her skin, so it was a pale alabaster white like that of a china doll. The dress was an alluring dark blue, like that of the sea; and just like the sea he found himself drawn to her. He was seeing her as a woman, not only a woman but a lady, for the first time. For a moment he forgot she was a pirate and the enemy completely. ---------------------------- "You look... uhhhh..." Carlix coughs and remembers who he is talking to, "different." "You look just as I hoped you would. Now if you can just stop pulling at your collar, you will fit into the crowd nicely. None of the other men would have been passable as my escort; they all look suspicious, dangerous or rough. I knew once you shaved and put on clean clothes you would look the part, or at least be able to pull it off." Carlix was a little offended that she thought he could only pass as a gentleman, when he was one of the most respected men in some ports. He would have to show her what he could really do tonight; he knew she would be impressed. Instead of voicing his thoughts he just said "I am honoured to be your escort this evening" he even added "Milady" to it for effect, bowing slightly at the waist. He glanced up and saw what he thought was a hint of a smile. "That wasn't bad, perhaps with more practise you will get it perfect. It will do." She flicked her lace fan open and fanned herself lightly. "We should be going, I ordered the coach to be here just after sunset." Carlix nodded and offered his arm to her, feeling more nervous than he ever had with any woman before when she slid her hand through his arm and rested it lightly on him. He did notice that she wore gloves, these were fashionable for ladies but they also served a practical purpose for Kit; they hid her rough seamen's hands. Her hands had naturally become rougher than a true lady would ever allow her hands to become. With all the work at sea, not to mention swordplay she has done in her life, you couldn't expect that she would have soft hands. "If I may ask, I was wonderin' where you came upon these clothes?" "I persuaded the owners to give them to me" she said with more of a smile, remembering how the lady trembled with fear when undressing and handing over the lovely gown. "I am sure you did." He said with a sceptical tone but said nothing more of it. Upon reaching the coach, a footman opened the door to allow them in. Carlix assisted Kit into the coach then climbed in behind her. It seemed to him that she has spent her whole share of the plunder on this night. "Tonight I will be called Lady Anne of Durshire, and you are William Dunlop. Do not forget." Carlix simply nods, as he is being trying not to stare at her, or at least not stare so obviously. Why can't he stop staring, why can't he remember she is the enemy, why can he not get the thought of her figured silhouette out of his mind as well; as what she would look like if he had drawn back that privacy curtain? His brain was buzzing with thoughts, all relating to Kit, and none of the matter at hand. He got so lost in his thoughts he didn't even notice they had arrived until the sound of the coach door opening brought him back to reality. He scrambled out of the coach finding that he was eager to help her out of the coach and have her hand resting on his arm again. Seeing her dressed this way, he felt like he wanted to protect her, keep her safe and even provide for her. Not that she needed him to, but every woman wanted a man to do that for her, even if they pretended like they did not, and Kit was a woman. She slipped her arm through his, resting her hand upon it lightly as before. He placed his hand over top of hers for a moment, but removed it again when she glanced at him. He escorted her up the stone walkway to the wide solid wood doors. The doormen opened them, and they found themselves standing on top of a marble staircase, looking down on a crowd of faces. "Welcome to the Governor's Ball" says a man standing at the railing ready to announce them. Queen of the Sea Ch. 03 From the top of the stairway, Carlix could see the grand hall was full of people. Smiling faces everywhere, some off to the side talking to each other, some were dancing and laughing. Men were talking to other men, ladies were gossiping in small groups hiding their faces behind their fans as they made eyes at some of the men and giggled. The dance floor was a swirl of colour, and music filled the air. The music was lively, but the dancing was stiff and proper. Carlix knew that Kit would find this rather boring, seeing as she seemed at home on her ship and always laughed at the rowdy antics of her crew. "Announcing Sir William Dunlop and the Lady Anne of Durshire." Called out the servant from the top of the stairway, his list of names held out in front of him. Carlix couldn't help but wonder how Kit was able to get her name, at least her assumed name, on the list in advance. He thought that maybe she had stolen the invitation of the young lady who originally owned her beautiful dress. He decided that wasn't likely as if that woman had been invited there would be people here who would know that Kit was not her. She could not be pretending to be someone else, as she would not get away with it, at least not for long. He glanced over at Kit as they slowly descended the long stone stairway. She looked straight ahead, a small smile on her lips. Her right arm through his and her hand resting there lightly, comfortably, as if this were an everyday occurrence for her. Her other hand gently holding her skirt out of the way so she did not trip. She was a vision of beauty, all the other ladies paled in comparison to her, and Carlix thought by the look on their faces, they knew it too. "Escort me around the room" came a harsh whisper from Kit that brought Carlix mind back to the task at hand. He flushed a little in embarrassment that he forgot his duties. She is going to think I am a fool who doesn't belong here, he thought to himself. That may be a good thing as he isn't supposed to belong here, he was supposed to be pretending to be a pirate, and pirates don't belong at the Governor's Ball. On the other hand, he desperately wanted to impress her; he wanted her to see him as the respectable gentleman he knew he was and could be. He wanted her to think of him as more than just a member of the crew. He glanced at her as they walked slowly around the room. Such beauty, such grace, such perfection. He was awestruck; he almost couldn't remember what his true mission was. "If my eyes are not deceiving me, I do believe it is the Lady of Durshire." A woman walking up to Kit says. "Sarah, it is good to see you, how long has it been" she asks with a smile and kisses the woman on the cheek. "To long as always Anne" kissing Kit's cheeks in return. "I see you have a different escort than you did the last time I saw you" She says with a smile and a coy wink. "You only started taking notice of my habits since you got married, you used to be as carefree as I" Kit says with a playful smile. Sarah looks at Carlix in such a way that he knows he is no longer welcome. He decides to make himself scarce; perhaps he can find someone more interesting to talk to then a group of women. He sees as soon as he leaves her side, Sarah has taken her arm and leading her towards a group of gossiping women. He shudders at the thought of it, he never understood how women could just talk about nothing important at all, and they can do it all day and night no less. At least men talked about things that made a difference; war, trade, economy, politics; these things were important. What did he care what was in fashion, children and what they should be taught, or the management of servants? Just the thought of it bored him. Besides, this gave him the perfect opportunity to find someone who might know something about the 'Lady of Durshire'; he wanted to find out all that he could about her. First think that Carlix did was walk around the entire hall. This action was the most naturally to him, being one of the his Royal Majesty's Navy, his first instinct was to make sure the environment was a safe one. There was a wonderful aroma in the air, a mixture of delicious food and beautiful ladies' perfume. It was all anyone could ever want, why if Kit seems to have a life in this world would she choose a life of a pirate, an outlaw of the water? When she could have it all, she has nothing. He just didn't understand this, he must find out what motivates her. He finds a place to stand on the sidelines; somewhere he can simply watch the people, and most importantly Kit. Perhaps if he studied her every move something would be revealed to him. He could see her talking with the same ladies as when he had left her, but he also saw a man approaching. He was obviously a member of the Royal Navy as he is wearing the official dress uniform, only used for the occasions of the utmost importance. This man was no ordinary officer either; he was decorated with many medals and had a very high rank. Carlix could only assume this was Admiral Selkirk. Carlix knew him only by his reputation; he was a formidable officer, naval man, and sailor. He approached the ladies with the confidence only a man of his stature would have, and Carlix could tell his sights were set on Kit. Why wouldn't they be? She was clearly the most beautiful woman here, and Selkirk would never settle for less than what he thought he deserved and he thought he deserved Kit. Carlix watched closely, he knew exactly how Kit felt about the Navy, but this was not her ship and she was not around fellow pirate. She was a different person here, and perhaps she would have a completely different attitude and opinion than she did as a pirate captain. Just as he suspected, as Selkirk approached and introduced himself, Kit smiled and allowed him to kiss her hand. However, if Carlix wasn't mistaken, he thought he saw a flash of hate in her eyes before she smiled and acted as if she was blushing. "She is beautiful" says a voice of someone standing beside him. "Excuse me" Carlix responds, having not realized anyone was standing there, he was now kicking himself as he has never let anyone sneak up on him before. "The Lady of Durshire, she is beautiful." The young man says, looking in Kit's direction. "Yes, very beautiful" Carlix admits. "Do you know her?" "I have not been formally introduced, she would never even talk to someone like me, she only has eyes for the Admiral." He says with a note of sadness in his voice. "Is that so?" Carlix says raising an eyebrow. "Indeed it is, she is the only woman he wants, and she spends all of her time with him when she makes an appearance." "Lucky man" a note of jealously creeps into Carlix voice. "Oh he hasn't gotten that lucky with her. She may spend her time with him when she is here, but she will not leave with him. She has never left with him. Trust me he is not a man you want to be anywhere near after she refuses him." "How do you know all of this?" "I am the Admiral's servant." "I see. If she has no intention on being with him in a more intimate way, then why does she lead him on so? Women are a cruel race" "From what I am told, she is the only woman he has ever met that enjoys hearing his war stories. She wants to hear more about his adventures, what he does, all of his successes, what ships and people he has captured and brought to justice. It is just odd for a lady like her to be interested in such violent things, if you ask me. It is one of the reasons that he enjoys her company so much, not only is she the most beautiful woman in any room, she allows him to do nothing but brag about himself. She is the perfect woman." "Yes she is" Carlix whispers before he even realizes it. Just then he saw Selkirk pull Kit close to him. He also saw her resist him, it was subtle but noticeable. Selkirk, being self involved and used to getting his own way, didn't notice, or perhaps he just didn't care. Carlix knew that Kit could kill him where he stands if she chose too. He wondered how Selkirk would react if he knew he was holding the world's most notorious pirate in his arms right now. Carlix didn't know if it was Selkirk's boorish ways or his rising jealousy, but he was compelled to save Kit from this man. He couldn't stop himself from walking over to the two of them. "Excuse me, Lady ..." Carlix started to say before he was abruptly cut off. "Be gone boy, can't you see she is busy?" Selkirk replies abruptly cutting Carlix off without even looking his way. "It is growing late milady, I have been trusted with your welfare for the evening." Carlix sees a smile starting to creep across Kit's lips. "I will escort the lady home when she wishes to leave." Selkirk says finally turning his attention away from Kit. Carlix could see the anger flash in his eyes, it would have scared away a lesser man. However, he was not a lesser man, and he was not willing to back down. He was willing to fight if he needed to; luckily it was not going to come to that. "Now boys" Kit said with a sweet smile on her face and a note of superiority in her voice that only a woman like her could use without sounding like she was talking down to those she was talking to, "I will not stand for an argument. Admiral Selkirk, this is my escort William Dunlop, and he is correct the evening is growing late." Carlix could not help but smile smugly as he offered his arm to Kit. He felt her gentle touch as she slipped her arm through his and rested her hand against him. Just feeling her close gave him an indescribable feeling of joy. His heart leaped into his throat, and he forgot that Selkirk was even there. "Anne..." Selkirk says grabbing her other arm. Kit looks down at his hand on her elbow and Carlix can see her contemplating removing it herself. Instead she raises her eyes to his and simply smiles and says "Now Admiral, you are kind to make such an offer but you know I am not that type. I am always escorted to and from these balls by the same man. What would people think of me if I did not? Any damage done to my reputation would also damage yours, and I cannot stand to even think of that happening to a fine naval officer such as you." Carlix was impressed, instead of reacting violently, as was the behavior that he has come to expect from her, she turns the situation around and is sickeningly sweet and makes it all about Selkirk. Not only that, but it seemed to work because Selkirk removed his hand from her arm. "A pleasure to see you as always" he says bowing slightly, "I do hope to see you again soon, and perhaps you will allow me to escort you to the next ball." "Perhaps." She smiles and starts to walk away with Carlix. He can feel Selkirk heated glare against his back as they walk away. Carlix could feel the heat of Kit's body as they walked side by side down the hallway towards their room. They had to share a room, just for appearances she had told him. He had nodded and said he had understood, but now he was very grateful they had to keep up appearances. All he could think about was how beautiful she looked, how wonderful she smelled, and how soft she felt against him. She was better than any woman he had ever dreamed of, this was better than any dream or fantasy. This woman was not only beautiful but deadly as well. She was the only woman he had ever met that he could even contemplate considering his equal. Upon entering the room, she started taking off her gloves. "Extremely profitable evening I might say" She says without glancing up. "How's that?" Carlix asks curiously, her voice bringing him back from his thoughts. "Selkirk. That man enjoys nothing more than talking about himself, to his own demise I might add. If he had any idea that the reason why he loses so many ships is because he reveals all the details of his routes and such to a pirate he would be livid." She giggles as almost like a school girl as she reveals what she was really doing in the company of the admiral. "You go to these balls simply to gather information from Selkirk to plan your own profit and plundering?" Carlix asks coming to a realization, but also feeling relieved that she doesn't have eyes for him as he was told by that servant. "Of course, but I have interests other than Selkirk, but he is the greatest wealth of knowledge" she says, then adding "besides he is the one that deserves it the most." Her voice has a cutting edge to it sharper than any sword; her icy glare sent a shiver up Carlix's spine. Before Carlix even has a chance to ask what she means, she has a smile on her face again. "I do not want to think about him any longer. No need to ruin a wonderful evening." "Of course, no need at all... milady" Carlix says with a coy smile. "You will forget all about Lady Anne after today" she says pointing a finger at him. "As you wish" he replies bowing slightly. "I only have one more task for you" "Anything my lady and my captain commands of me" She turns her back to him, and he can see the laces holding her dress closed and immediately knows what she is asking. He steps close to her, closer than is really necessary but this is his excuse. Kit can feel his breath brush against the back of her neck, so warm and soft. His fingers start untying the laces of her dress and corset. The fingers that have been so good at tying knots in the ropes on the ship had now turned to expertly untying the laces of her dress. He wanted to untie them as fast as humanly possible, but he didn't, he also wanted to cherish this moment. This was the first time that she had ever trusted him enough to put herself in a vulnerable position. He was no fool, he did not believe she was truly vulnerable, but that was not the point. She was allowing him to undress her, he felt overwhelmed. He let his fingertips graze her back as it was slowly revealed. When she did not step away or tell him to stop, he eagerly continued. He stepped closer to her, now he could feel her body against his. His hand pushed her dress off her shoulders, as it started to slide down her body with the help of his hands; he pressed his lips just behind her ear. She tilted her head slightly, letting his lips travel down to her neck. His hand traveled back up her sides; despite the air being warm she was getting goose bumps. He moved his hands to her plump breast, the air against her recently freed nipples making them hard. He rolls his forefinger and thumb over her nipples, a soft moan escapes her throat. Her moans spurs him on, he turns her around to face him. He feels her hands slide down his chest, slowly, and if he didn't know better, lovingly. It was if she was trying to memorize every detail of his body. As he felt her touch moving lower, he reached up and released her hair from their confines. Her long golden hair spilled down her back, he wrapped his fingers in it, gripping her firmly yet gently and pulled her into a deep kiss. Their lips pressing together, his tongue darts into her mouth, tasting her. It was the sweetest thing he had ever tasted and he did not want to break the kiss. He felt her long slender fingers start to release him from his trousers. As he feels her wrap her hand around his growing cock he gasps softly. With her dress pooled around her feet, and his trousers now slipped off he wrapped his arms around her and lifted her up. She wrapped his legs around his waist and pressed her lips to his once more. He walked slowly towards the large bed, as much as he wanted this moment to last he also wanted to feel himself inside her. He had never thought this would happen when he had first met her, but now he could think of nothing else. He placed her on the bed; she wrapped her arms around him and pulled him on top of her body. He ached with anticipation as he felt her heat against his body. Her fingertips traced down his spine, he arched his back at her touch. It sent a shiver of pleasure through his body. With this encouragement he finally slid his hard cock inside her; he rested his head in between her shoulder and neck. This was an experience unlike any other for him, he had had sex with many women in the past, but none had brought on feelings like this within him. He felt her legs wrapped around him, pulling him inside her faster and harder. This was a woman who was enjoying herself as much as he was, and that was a rare thing. He found himself underneath Kit. She was straddling him, sliding up and down his cock as fast and deep as she liked. He took advantage of the situation and rested his hands on her breasts. Massaging them, pinching the nipples and making her moan. He felt exhilarated when she moaned with pleasure. When she arched her back and let out a loud moan of pleasure and he felt a shudder coming from inside her. She had gripped his cock inside her tighter than ever, he knew she had erupted with pleasure, and this caused him to do the same. Afterwards she collapsed on top of him. He gladly wrapped his arms around her and held her close. He kissed her forehead softly and without a word continued to hold her as they both drifted off to sleep. The sunlight came through the open window the next morning brushing Carlix's eyes. He slowly woke up, stretching his body with a smile on his face remembering what had happened earlier. He rolled over to say good morning only to find himself alone in the bed. He sat up suddenly and looked around. He spotted a note held up by a stiletto dagger in the door. He got up and ripped the note from the door. It read; Do not bother coming to the docks I have already set sail. I cannot have someone I have shared a bed with on my ship. So I have no further need of you. Carlix was in shock for a moment. Then he ripped the stiletto out of the door and walked onto the balcony that overlooked the sea. "I vow to find you, there is nowhere you can run, and nowhere you can hide. I will have justice!" he turns on his heel and storms out of the inn with a new determination.