The Disposition of the Night

[Mr. Skiperdoo]

Hey everyone! Just like so many of you, I've decided to give my best shot at making a story! So without further ado, I present to you: The Disposition of the Night.

Prologue

A cool night’s breeze made it’s way through the docks of the English port. Few times had the port seen a night quite as busy as this one, for at that moment, the preparations were set for a small fleet to be sent off towards the one of the most dangerous places in all of the British colonies: The Caribbean.

“Preparations are set sir, we’ll be out of here in no time.” A sailor said, addressing a high-ranking officer.

“Very well, see to it that everyone is accounted for. We don’t want anybody left behind, and we don’t want any stowaways for that matter.” The officer replied with a decisive tone.

The sailor whom had recently confronted him stood up, a slightly confused look on his face.

“May I ask sir, what’s the reason we’re shipping off supplies anyways? I mean, It’s not like the navy can’t handle themselves.”

“My good man, the reason we’re sending off all these supplies is because of the cargo itself, not the situation over in some wretched region.” The officer said, taking out a large map that looked like it had been used for decades, yet for some reason it looked like it hadn’t been used at all.

“See this?” The officer said, handing the map over to the sailor. “This is the reason we’re sending them out.” He said, trying to pinpoint a spot on the map.

“But sir, isn’t it dangerous over in the Caribbean colonies? Are you sure these men can handle themselves?” The sailor asked, still confused.

“Well that’s the big question now, isn’t it?” The officer said as he walked over towards a large list that held all of the comings and goings of all the ships stationed in the dock.

“The officers aboard the ship can fill you in with further details. In the meantime, I believe someone should be getting onboard.” The officer said, motioning towards the frigate about to permanently leave England.

“Y-Yes sir.” The sailor said as he ran up onto the ships main deck.

Before long, the dockmaster gave the command to let the ship go of it’s bollards, and eventually the frigate was on It’s way.

Chapter 1:Onboard

“Look at her Ivan, she’s beautiful, is she not?” A man said, standing proudly on the side of the frigate

“I guess, It looks just like every other rock we’ve passed in the last week or so.” Ivan said, obviously not impressed by the island miles away.
“Well you better get used to it, when you’re not out hunting pirates, you’ll probably be out checking the ladies eh?” The man said like a true sailor.

“Howard… you and I both now I’ll be doing little of both.” Ivan said, a bit embarrassed. “I really don’t want to hunt pirates anyways, I’d much rather be in the navy to be honest.” He said, disheartening the look on Howard’s face.

“Well, I’m sure your father would’ve advised against joining the navy.” Howards said. “You know how he hated their system.” He said, looking down into the waters below.

Ivan’s father was known by some in the English colonies as a pirate, but he preferred the term mercenary. There wasn’t any substantial evidence that pointed towards him committing acts of piracy, as most who knew him either was his acquaintance, or his enemy.

“My father would’ve made me join him eventually,” Ivan said. “He did what he loved, yet some still believed he was a pirate.”

“I know all about that Ivan, he was my brother after all.” Howard said, his face not getting any more elated. “He… he was a good man. He… fought for what he thought was right.”

“Uncle Howard, are you ok?” Ivan asked, noticing Howard’s sudden unease.

“No, it’s just… let’s get you ready for your first assignment, shall we?” Uncle Howard walked over towards a navigator situated atop the highest deck of the ship.

“How long till we port sir?” He asked, prompting the navigator to put down his map.

“We should be in port by sunset.” The navigator replied. “I advise that you curtail on your silly antics, Mr. Hood.” The grey-haired navigator said, staring into Howard like a falcon stares into it’s prey.

“Y-Yes sir, I’ll let you get back to your duties.” Howard said, moving away from the navigator, and back towards Ivan.
He had a good idea whom that was, it was either the navigator chosen specifically because Howard was onboard, or maybe it was that guy he met while trying to get clearance for him and Ivan to venture out to the Caribbean.

He certainly hoped it wasn’t the first, ever since he’d become a mercenary himself, he had people watching him everywhere he turned.

“We’ll be in port by-“

“I heard him,” Ivan said, interrupting Howard’s sentence. “Port by sunset.”

“So, you’re all ready?” Howard asked, looking intently.

“How can one be ready for what I’m about to undertake?” Ivan asked walking towards the ship’s lower deck.

“I guess you’re right…” Howard said, heading off to go get ready.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Now I know this chapter's short, but belive me, someday I'll update.

[Mr. Skiperdoo]

Quick update huh? Well don't get used to it!

Chapter 2: Bishop

“Alright, here we are men,” The captain of the frigate said. “Port Royal, possibly the safest place you’ll ever know.” He said as he caught sight of a dockworker making sure the ship was securely tied up. “Now you’ll all meet with your respective officers, they’ll tell you what you need to know.”

The captain waited until the ship was ready to begin unloading, and once the dockworkers gave the ok, he turned his attention back to the waiting men onboard. “Team A will assist in loading off the supplies, Team B will meet up with Commander Rutherford, and I’m sure Team C knows where to go.” He said making his way off the ship. “Good day gentlemen.”
Ivan stood silent on the deck of the ship. He knew that he wasn’t with any of the teams, and Howard had already left with team C. The only possible explanation he could think of was that they were singling him out, that they wanted him alone.

“Ah, there you are. Are you by any chance Ivan Hood?” A man asked. By the looks of it, he was either an EITC officer, or some sort of merchant.

“Yes sir.” Ivan said, trying not to be disrespectful. “You’re correct.”

“Well then Ivan, let’s get you to your superior.” The man said gesturing his hand to signal for Ivan to follow him. “We’ve been waiting for you,” He said, stepping of the ship’s plank and onto the wooden dock below. “Ever since we heard of what you did back in England, we’ve been desperately awaiting your arrival.

“Wait, you’ve been expecting me?” Ivan asked, confused but still a bit proud at the point.

“Why yes, once we heard about your run-in with those pirates, well let’s just say we’d like you to continue with what you’ve done.” The man said, striking one of Ivan’s deepest memories.

Back in England, a few months ago, there was news about a group of assassins who were targeting some of the more high ranking officials in the area. Naturally this intrigued Ivan, whom at the time had nothing better to do.

He remembered going to the tavern to get information, tracking down sources, and then finally reaching the source itself. Once he reached the source, he was able to figure out the location of their hideout. Once he reached the hideout on that night, he commenced the slaughter of countless “Pirates”.

“I’m very grateful sir,” Ivan said, following the man into an alleyway. “I didn’t know I had such a reputation.”

“For what you are, you’re not that popular,” The man replied, moving his head side to side as if he was looking for a specific building. “We’re just in desperate need of pirate hunters.” He said, finally coming to a stop. “Ah, here we are,” The man said, opening the door. “Now I expect you to be very respectful to the Commodore.” He said, leading Ivan into a medium sized entry room. “I’m afraid he’s not in the best of moods today.”

The man looked over towards a door positioned at the opposite side of the room. “He’s in there, probably talking to a naval officer. I’m sure when he’s done you can go in there and… “I don’t care, if the soldiers are tired, we need to find their position now!” Came a loud voice from behind the door.

“That would be him…”

“Very well sir, I’ll tell the troops that they’re not getting any leave time soon.” Another voice said. “Good day sir.” He said as Ivan could begin to hear footsteps coming closer to the door.

The door flung open, revealing a mad naval lieutenant trudging outside the building, and into the streets outside.

“Now then, let’s move on, shall we?” The man said, opening the door into the Commodore’s office.

“Well who do we have here?” The Commodore said. “This must be the new hit man I ordered. He said, his mood changing from furious rage to a calm, casual feeling.

“Yes sir, that’s correct.” Ivan said as nervous as the new kid on the first day of school. “Although I don’t really prefer the term hit man, since eradicating criminals isn’t the only thing in my criteria.”

“Oh?” The Commodore said, a smile making its way onto his face. “Very well then, Commander Henson, you’re dismissed.” He said, waving off Ivan’s escort.

“Good luck Ivan,” Said Commander Henson. “You’re gonna need it.” He said, as he left the surprisingly upkeep building, only to have a sudden change entering the dirty streets of Port Royal.

“Come come now, we don’t want you wasting all your energy while still being immobile now, do we?” The Commodore asked. “It’d be much more suitable for you to sit while we discuss the matter.” He said while Ivan took a seat in front of the table where the Commodore was seated. “My name’s John Bishop, or Commodore Bishop if you prefer.” He said taking a note out from his desk. “You see this?” He said, handing Ivan the note. “This note speaks of EITC shipment records for each port in the archipelago.”

“So?” Ivan wondered.

“So, don’t you see anything strange with this document?” Asked Commodore Bishop.

Other than the obviously sloppy penmanship riddling the paper, the only thing that seemed out of place was that certain shipping records were circled in. And not only were some circled in, but they all seemed to be ones following a pattern, some sort of system. Nothing seemed too out of place until his eyes reached the bottom of the paper. There he saw words inscribed “Return this paper to Reynard as soon as possible”.

“You see that?” The Commodore said, speaking up. “We’re pretty sure that’s the work of none other than the pirate Marcus Reynard.” He said, scooping up the document once again, and putting it safely away in his desk. “Your mission is to find this… Reynard, and exterminate him.”

“W-Where should I begin?” Ivan asked, a bit shocked he had already received orders to kill someone.

“You should begin by going to Tortuga, and finding out more about this Reynard fellow. Such as his whereabouts, any information on his crew and you can even ask the local ladies of they know a little about him.” Commodore Bishop replied. “And if you want, you can keep Commander Henson with you if you’d like.”

Ivan was about to get up from his chair when he heard the Commodores words. “Alright,” He said. “I’ll make sure he comes with me.”

“Good,” Bishop said, a pleased look in his eyes. “Take this with you.” He said, handing Ivan a paper certifying that Commander Henson would be working with Ivan for the time being.

“You’re dismissed, return to me when you have either killed him, or captured him.” He said just as Ivan began to get up from his chair and exit the room. “Oh and Ivan,” He said, prompting Ivan’s head to turn around. “If any pirate gets in your way, you have the right to slaughter him if you’d like.”

Ivan nodded, and exited the room in which Bishop resided. Now all he had to do was find this Reynard guy.
~~~~~
Please R&R

[The Stealthy Pirate]

Pretty good.

[Mr. Skiperdoo]

Chapter 3: Plans

Ivan walked out of the building, and out into the dark streets of Port Royal. His mission was clear: Find Reynard, and terminate him if possible. He knew he was ready for what he was about to undertake, but first he had to catch up with Captain Henson.

“Ah there you are,” Henson said, leaning against the side of another building. “So, how’d your talk go?” He asked.

“It went fine,” Ivan answered. “The Commodore has assigned me to take down a pirate by the likes of Marcus Reynard.” “And you’re coming with me.” He said, lighting the fire in the Captain’s eyes.

“Oh really?” Henson said, very interested. “Finally getting some action.”

Ivan was a bit confused at what the Captain said. Finally getting action? He was either in the Navy or EITC, so action wasn’t usually something asked for. “That’s strange,” Ivan said, prompting Capt. Henson to look over in confusion. “Are you in the navy? Or EITC?” He asked.

Henson smiled and looked around himself as if he was embarrassed at something. “Technically both.” He said, causing Ivan’s question to remain unanswered.

“Both? What do you mean by both?”

“Well I was commissioned as an officer in the navy, but later chosen specifically by the EITC to undergo covert operations.” Henson said. “Oh, and another thing. You can call me Jack if you’d like.” He said, finally resolving the problem of only knowing his last name. “And what about you? How’d you get here?”

Ivan was almost taken aback by those words. He didn’t want to go in detail about how he got recognized by the Commodore, yet he still didn’t want to let him hanging. So in the end, Ivan finally mustered up his best response. “No, I’d rather not say.” He said, his head hanging low.

“Oh, I understand,” Jack said, leading Ivan closer towards the dock where he’d first met Ivan. “I… know what it’s like to lose ones close to you.” He said, causing Ivan to look at him strangely. In truth Ivan didn’t really have any “close ones” that had passed away other than his father. His mother still lived in the English mainland, his only uncle was of course with him, and the other close relatives he knew of had either moved on, or he just didn’t care about them. But alas, he didn’t want to prove Jack wrong after what he said. After all, Ivan did lose his father, so as long as he kept it at that, he’d have a clear conscience.

“So where do we go first?” Jack asked.

“We’ll be going to Tortuga to get some answers on where this Reynard fellow is.” Ivan answered.

“Tortuga? But we’ll need to wait till tomorrow morn before we set out for Tortuga.”

“ I know,” Ivan said, coming to a stop on the cool beach sands. “Which is why we’ll meet here early tomorrow morning, and catch a ride with some lads to Tortuga.” He said, obviously knowing nothing about Tortuga.

Jack took a moment for it all to sink in, but when he finally comprehended Ivan’s words, he laughed as if he’d been tickled by professional feather wavers. “You seriously think you can just walk into Tortuga like nobody’s business?” He said still laughing.

“Well, yes actually.”

Jack could contain his most immature laughter no longer, as he chuckled as hard as someone does when a practical joke goes perfect. “Oh my…. Well you really need to know more about the Caribbean if you don’t know about Tortuga.”

Puzzled, Ivan responded in an innocent manner. “What’s there to know?”

“What’s there to know? What’s there to know?” Jack repeated. “Firstly you need to know that Tortuga’s basically a pirate island.” He said. “It’s not a common sight to see navy there, however when they are everyone seems to act normal.” He said, answering Ivan’s question.

“How do you know about this?” Ivan asked. “How would you know about how they act towards the navy?”

“Well, you mustn’t forget that I do covert missions, knowing these traits one of the things that comes with the job.” He said. “Now then, tomorrow I’ll meet you right in this spot, whoever arrives first will await for the other while maintaining this spot. Now go get some sleep, I bet you’re tired.”

Ivan loved hearing those words, he was extremely tired since he was greatly anticipating his arrival back on dry land. “Very well, I’ll go get some sleep.” Ivan said with a heavy head. “See you tomorrow I guess.” He said as he trudged off into the night engulfed town.

“Now let’s see, what was the name of that place I was to reside in?” He wondered as he continued his way through Port Royal. Eventually he came to an intersection connecting different paths. “I think this is it.” He said as he walked towards the door.

He gave the door a solid knock, only to have it open seconds later by a woman in her nightdress.

“Um… hello?” She said, apparently surprised by Ivan’s abrupt entrance.

“Hello, is this by any chance the Cornel house?” Ivan asked.

“Oh, now I remember!” The woman said as she opened the door further to invite Ivan in. “You must be Ivan, correct?” She said.

“Yes, that’d be me.” Ivan said, relieved that he found the right house on his first try.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, my name’s Cassandra, and I’m pretty sure your father’s upstairs trying to get some shut-eye.” She said as Ivan closed the door behind him.

“My… father?” Ivan said disheartened. “You must mean my uncle.” He said, as Cassandra walked over towards a door positioned at the corner of the room.

“Really? I could’ve… nevermind, your room’s the second one on the left.” She said. “I’m sorry for the sudden introduction, but it’s awfully late.” She said, trying not to be impolite.

“No, that’s fine,” Ivan said. “Actually I was hoping you’d compensate for it by making a grand breakfast, but… oh well.” He said walking up the steps.

“Oh you don’t have to worry about that.” Cassandra said. “For the time being, I’ll be taking care of you and your uncle.” She said, making Ivan hide his facewide grin. “Chances are, you’ll wake up to the largest meal you’ve had in ages.”

“Ok then,” Ivan said. “Thank you.” He said, his mind hi-fiving itself.

“Goodnight.” Cassandra said, closing the door behind her.

‘Can’t wait for a good morning.’ Ivan thought as he entered his room.
~~~~~~~~
Is this story boring? If so, don't hesitate to say so.

Comments?

[Hookshot]

Great story so far!

[The Stealthy Pirate]

Great story mate!

[SEAKING23]

Great story! love it!

[Mr. Skiperdoo]

Chapter 4: The adventure begins

“Ah, there you are,” Uncle Howard said, noticing Ivan’s footsteps coming down the stairs. “I was beginning to think you’d slipped into a coma…”

Ivan said nothing, but continued his way down the steps. He could smell the aromas of a fresh breakfast infiltrating it’s way into his nostrils. Oh how he longed for a full breakfast after the dried up oat mealy dandruff he’d become so accustomed to back on the journey to the Caribbean. A few temporary residents we’re residing in other tables close by, they were probably in a similar situation as Ivan.

“So,” Howard said as Ivan took a seat on the opposite side of the table. “I heard you were taken aside by the navy.” He said as Cassandra handed him and Ivan a plate.

“Thank you,” Ivan said, ready to devour his breakfast. “Oh and Howard, it’s just a low-priority duty, that’s all.” He said, trying to make his uncle think he was just given a simple job. “I’ll be going to Tortuga to get some information, that’s all.”

“From pirates?” Howard asked, paralyzing everyone close.

“Y… Yes.” Ivan said, attracting a lot of attention from the others inside the room. “That’s the only way to get the information.” He said, not knowing what the reaction would be.

’Great, now he’ll think I’m gonna go kill myself…’ Ivan thought to himself.

“That’s…” Howard said but paused midway. “That’s great!” He said, throwing his arms up. “Look at you, you just stepped onto the island and already they’re giving you assignments.” He said, detracting attention away from themselves. “Now, how much are you getting paid?”

Ivan was about to facepalm himself when he heard Howard’s question, since Bishop hadn’t promised any reward, and since Ivan hadn’t requested any, he was afraid all he’d get would be the reputation that comes with killing a pirate. “I… didn’t catch that.” He said, worried that Howard would get equally frustrated.

“Really? For someone with your standing, I’m sure they’ll pay you more than any other soldier out there.” He said, finishing up his meal. “Anyways, when will you be leaving?” He asked, widening Ivan’s eyes.

’%&@! I better get going if I don’t want to leave Jack waiting,’ He thought, getting up from the table. “Cassandra, the food’s excellent. Howard, I don’t have time, and Peter…” He said turning his attention over towards an old man sitting at the opposite side of the room. “Lay off the rum will ya?

Ivan grabbed his coat as he headed towards the door. “The service has been great, but I’m afraid I have to go.” He said, opening the door in front of him.

“But wait, what about the…” Howard said as the door slammed behind him. “Nevermind.”

Ivan slithered his arms through the holes on his coat. It felt great while walking down a street back in England, back there almost anything could be pleasant as long as it was done right. But here, in the Caribbean, almost any middle-class citizen in Port Royal would be given a low standing back in Britan.

While walking down the street towards the dock, Ivan saw what appeared to be a gypsy outside of her cart. ‘This is the exactly what I mean.’ Ivan thought as he kept walking. ‘Gypsies walking through the streets as if it’s Paris…’

Eventually, Ivan came to the spot where he’d parted ways with Jack, now if only he’d appear.

“Ah! There you are,” He heard Jack’s unmistakably scratchy voice. “It’s about time!” He said, walking over to Ivan. “So, how do we get out of here?” He said, causing Ivan to look all around him.

“I guess we’ll have to catch a ride somehow.” Ivan said. “So… we should go look, correct?”

Jack sighed, and began looking out into the distance. “Well here’s our choices: The little fishing boat out there, the navy’s new pride and joy, or that medium sized frigate preparing to leave.” He said, pointing to each respectively.

“Hmm, I guess we’ll try our luck with that frigate over there,” Ivan said as Jack began speedwalk towards the docks.

“Well come on!” Jack said motioning Ivan to follow him.

Soon they reached the part of the dock where the frigate was preparing to sail off. It obviously wasn’t navy, the signs on the ship pointed more along the lines of a merchant vessel if anything.

“Let’s find the captain.” Jack said walking onboard as if he was the captain himself.

Making their way through the crowded deck, Jack walked over towards where he presumed the captain of the ship was. He opened a door leading to a room under the top deck*, and went over to the most important looking man sitting at his desk.

“May I help you?” The man said, looking up from a large map situated in the middle of his desk.

Before Ivan had the chance, Jack spoke up like he’d done it a million times before. “Yes, I’m Captain Jack Henson of the Royal Navy, and I was wondering where a fine ship such as this would be headed off to on such a fine day.” He said in the most polite way possible.

The captain turned over towards a man standing to the left of him. “We’ll finish this later.” he said, turning his attention back towards Jack and Ivan. “I surely hope you haven’t come to commandeer my little beauty, have you?” He said, looking intently upon Jack.

“No, we’d just would like to know where you’re headed,” Jack said. “You see, it’s so hard to find a ride these days.” He said, hoping the captain would buy into it.

“Oh, if it’s a ride you need, it’s a ride you’ll get.” The captain warmly replied. “Now then, first we’re headed off to Tortuga to drop off a few supplies, and then we’ll be venturing off to…”

“Tortuga, that’s where we’re headed.” Ivan interrupted. “Thank you, we hope we haven’t been asking too much…” Ivan said both graciously and rude at the same time.

“Good then.” The captain said, gesturing for another high ranking sailor to come closer. “By the way, you can call me Captain Richard, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” He said, rolling up the map in front of him and putting it away in one of his drawers. “Now then, Jonathan, make sure these people are treated as our esteemed guests.” He told the man whom he’d recently called for.

“Thank you Captain Richard,” Jack said, backing up towards the door to the room. “You don’t know how much this means to us.”

Jack and Ivan walked outside the captain’s quarters, and into the chaotic mess that was about to leave port.

“So, with good weather, we’ll be in Tortuga tonight I assume.” Jack said, walking towards the lower deck while accepting their escort Jonathan’s company.

“You two will be staying in this cabin.” He said, showing them a small room that looked like an officers quarters. “Our… officer’s been away recently, so you’ll be staying here from now.” He said, silently dismissing himself from the two.

~~~~~~~~~~

“So, what do you think of our new guests?” Richard asked the man standing next to him.

“I’ve been watching them,” The man replied. “I suggest we wait until a better chance.”

“But does the other man know?” Richard asked, confused.

“Of course he does,” The unknown man answered. “He’s the one I’m after.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OoOoOoOoOoOoOoH! What’s going on? Usually I don’t get into the plot so fast but… mystery.

*- Think of an accurate substitute…

Comments? Questions? Too short?

[SEAKING23]

Nice!

But yes it was to short. I want more!!

[Hookshot]

Nice new chapter. Keep up the good writing!

[The Stealthy Pirate]

Great Chapter Mate!!!

[richfireskull]

Nice Skip!

[Mr. Skiperdoo]

Chapter 5: The journey

Ivan and Jack were sitting in their cabin, bored out of their minds.

“Alright, let’s start going over the details.” Jack began. “When we reach Tortuga, we’ll have to find this Reynard person. In order to do that, we must question, but we can’t make it look like we’re with the navy.” He said, causing Ivan to look up.

“Will we… how will we do that?” Ivan asked. “Are you sure they won’t notice us if we act like pirates?”

Jack rolled his eyes and began to think Ivan wasn’t completely fit for a job such as this. “Here’s what we’ll do: We get off the ship, and enter Tortuga. After that, we’ll just ask everyone who knows anything about Reynard.” He said as if he’d already planned it out days in advance.

“But… what if we get discovered?” Ivan asked. “What if they figure out we’re with the navy?”

Jack smiled and reached into his coat, and pulled out a flintlock. “I’m sure you’ll know what to do.” He said, still smiling. “I believe we’re aloud to kill anyone who gets in our way.”

Ivan was taken aback by Jack’s vicarious talk. He didn’t feel right whenever he killed someone. For some reason, he didn’t care, but at the same time, he felt extremely uneasy whenever he had to give the last blow. But of course it was his duty, if he was needed to get rid of someone, he’d do it.

He looked around the compressed cabin, to his left was a desk sitting up against the wall, and to the right was the door, leading out into the lower deck. He’d already checked the desk, empty, as expected. However, there was another little chest sitting next to it, alone. Naturally, it was locked, but Ivan was especially curious to see what was inside.

He turned back towards Jack. “So, tell me how you got into this mess.” He said, causing Jack to look up at him with an emotion barren face.

“W… What do you mean?” He asked, his face not getting any different.

“I mean how did you join the navy in the first place?” Ivan asked as he saw Jack take a deep breath and stare at the ground.

“I… I don’t really like to talk about it.”

Ivan felt the uncomfortable impression emanating from Jack. ‘Great, now he’ll never talk again!’

Jack regained his composure and looked back up towards Ivan. “If, you really want to know,” He began. “I was basically made to enter the navy by my father, but…”

“But what?” Ivan asked, trying to dig deeper.

“Well…” In an instant, the door was flung open, interrupting their conversation. A tall, strong man clothed in what appeared to be EITC garments stood in the doorway. His large structure was almost as intimidating as his voice, which soon followed his entrance.

“Why hello,” The man said, trying to appear friendly. “I thought you’d be in here.” He told the surprised two. “Don’t be too shocked now, I’m Nathaniel Callard of the East India Trading Company.” He said, greeting the now relieved two.

“It’s a pleasure to meet another one on our side,” Jack said. “I’m Captain Jack Henson of the Royal Navy, and this here is Ivan Hood, a mercenary working with me.” He said, much to Ivan’s dismay.

It seemed that Jack was leading the whole operation. It was true that he’d more experience with these sorts of things, and Ivan didn’t fully understand navy protocol, but for some reason, it seemed weird with Jack doing almost all the talking.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Callard.” Ivan said, finally speaking up. “As Jack here already said, it’s great to see someone else on our side.”

Nathaniel closed the door behind him, and walked towards the desk to take a seat. “Please, call me Nathaniel.” He said, making Ivan truly realize he wasn’t one of those stuck up officers. “I’m on a mission to go see the situation in Tortuga; may I ask you two what you’re up to?”

Before Ivan could speak up, Jack gave a swift and thought out response. “It just so happens that we also are headed to Tortuga, but instead of a routine check-up, we’re headed over there to find a pirate by the likes of Marcus Reynard.” He said making Nathaniel’s eyes widen.

“Oh really?” Nathaniel asked, a devious grin making it’s way into his face. “I’ve heard about this Reynard fellow, and he’s apparently been causing untold amounts of trouble recently.”

“Really? What do you know about him?” Jack asked, thinking he’d already found a good lead.

“Well, let me see. He’s usually hanging out in Tortuga if anything, if not he’s probably out looking for a good ship to plunder.” He said, sending chills down Ivan’s spine. “Other than that, there’s not much information on him since most people who meet him are either his friends, or dead.”

Ivan took those words in like he’d heard them before. He knew he was dealing with a killer, someone who didn’t care about others as long as gold was involved. When the time came, if the time came, he knew what he needed to do.

“I’m glad to have a friendly force going in the same general direction. Tell me, how long are you planning on staying? If you really need a place to stay, I know of one.” Nathaniel said. “I go to Tortuga all the time, so I know these things.”

Jack, whom had already had his fill of boredom for the day, politely responded: “You know what? We may just do that. Where will you be when we get to Tortuga? Maybe we can set up a meeting.”

“Me? Oh I’ll be at the navy shipment house as usual, they’re not that difficult to find if you’re looking for it.” Nathaniel said as he walked back towards the door. “Alas, I must depart for now, but I’ll be sure to meet up with you once we’ve reached our destination.” He said with a smile.

“Very well, until then.” Jack said, waving him off. “So, what do you think about him?” He asked Ivan once he’d left the room.

“He’s… strange.” Ivan said, a bit unsure about him. “I don’t know why, but I’ve got a strange feeling about him.

“Fine, sorry I asked.” Jack replied as if Ivan had just gone absolutely mad. “But if you don’t mind asking… why? Why do you have such a strange feeling towards him?”

“I don’t know…” Ivan said. “He’s too nice…”

~~~~~~~~~~

“So, how’d it go?”

“Just fine, I believe he’s who I’m looking for.”

“Oh, and what about the other one? What do we do with him?”

“He seems to be aware, but we’ll see how far he can go.”

“Good, I trust you’ve found your man then?”

“Hopefully, it’s been a while since I had a plan such as this.”

~~~~~~~~~~

“Really? You told him to go test the musket even after you made sure it didn’t work?” Ivan said, laughing in unison with Jack.

“Of course I did! I wanted to teach him how to report things properly!” Jack said, recalling an old story of his. “As long as he learned what to do, I was allowed to teach him in any way possible.”

“I don’t think purposely dirtying the equipment on purpose is the…”

“Best way to do it?” Jack interrupted. “You bet it is!” He said, misunderstanding what Ivan was about to say.

In truth, he was about to take note on how that wasn’t the best way to teach by the navy’s standards, although teaching methods differed from person to person, so it wouldn’t matter anyways. Although Ivan knew for the most part what life was like in the navy, he was always curious to learn more about it.

“So… can you tell me for real this time? How you got into the navy?” Ivan asked trying not to be intrusive.

“That’s fine,” Jack said, waving his hand in the air. “As soon as you tell me yours once I’m done.”

“Deal.”

“Alright then, let’s see where I left off.” Jack said, recalling the moment when they first met Nathaniel. “I believe I began with saying that my father practically made me enter the navy, and since he was one of their highest ranking officers in the Caribbean at the time, you can imagine it put a lot of pressure on someone like me. He was one of the navy’s greatest weapons against criminals, pirates and likes of them. I don’t really remember too much about him, he was…”

Ivan gave him a look which meant he knew what Jack was talking about.

“He… was killed by pirates. Right in front of me.”

Ivan felt uneasy after hearing what Jack just said. He himself had lost his father, but not in the same way as him. He remembered the day he discovered that he was murdered by those bandits. He remembered the first time ever seeing someone that had just recently died.

“I’m… sorry to hear that.” Ivan said as the room began to feel much darker than before.

“Now then, let’s hear your story.” Jack said directing Ivan to go ahead.

“Alright, I’ll… I’ll try.” Ivan said stuttering. “It all began when I heard news that an uprising recently began inside a small town back in England, not the largest of towns, but they grew a sufficient force large enough to take somewhere by surprise.”

“They?” Jack asked.

“They didn’t really have a name, they were your average criminal organization, wanting to get rid of the navy.” Ivan said making Jack laugh.

“Get rid of the navy? That’s not even remotely possible by any means!” Jack said, wondering if Ivan hadn’t made everything up on the spot.

“They were… they would strike quickly and quietly.” Ivan said, making a bit more sense. “They didn’t aim to completely destroy the navy, although that would be sufficient for them, It wasn’t near their spectrum. My father, whom was a mercenary, was sent to find this group, and eliminate them.” He said, finally beginning to show signs of sadness. “Let’s just say they found him first.”

A quiet feeling made it’s way into the dark cabin. None of them wanted to speak up, but they felt like they understood each other. Before long, they mutually agreed to walk out on the deck to see how things were outside.

“I agree, let’s go get some fresh air.” Jack said, not knowing what lay ahead

~~~~~~~~~~

Oo0O0ooO0Ooh! What really lies ahead??

Anyways, I hope you like the slightly longer chapter, and the short update.

[Mr. Skiperdoo]

Chapter 6: Finally at Tortuga


Ivan stepped onto the deck, looking around he could see many people either working hard, or sitting around and doing nothing. His eyes were somehow drawn to a group of sailors at the corner of the ship, talking to each other while simultaneously glancing over at Ivan every few seconds.

“Ah, it’s nice to just sit outside and enjoy a nice evening breeze.” Jack said leaning over the deck. “You should be glad the weather’s this lenient, most of the time it’s so hot, you may get second thoughts about taking a nice dip in the sea.” He said, only to be interrupted by Ivan’s urgent tone.

“You see those guys over there?” Ivan said, trying not to be too conspicuous. “Don’t look now, but I think they’ve got something with me.”

“Wait, those guys?” Jack whispered. “I think you’re being a bit paranoid.” He said, not noticing that Ivan already went over towards the bunch.

“Hey where you goi- you better not talk to them.” He said, fearing for Ivan’s safety. “They could be pirates for all we know.”

“Look who’s paranoid.” Ivan said, casually walking over towards the unknown group.

“Good day mate,” The leader of the group said once he noticed footsteps coming towards him. “Lovely day we’re having, isn’t it?” He asked in a somewhat fake tone.

“Yes, and a fine day at that,” Jack said, again speaking up before Ivan had the chance. “But that’s not what we’re here for.” He said, sending a chill down each of the sailor’s spines.

“Well then, what is it may I ask?”

“It’s about the whereabouts of a certain pirate with the name of Marcus Reynard.” Ivan said, making sure he inserted himself into the conversation. “Our orders are to find him, and negotiate with him.”

These words almost stunned the sailors to a point where they were frozen silent. But after a few seconds of peace, the leader spoke up again. “Terrance, James, go to the cabin.” He said waving off his lackeys.

“Alright, let’s make this quick.” The man said, leading them towards a room next to the captain’s quarters. The room was a nicely designed cabin, with tables at each side. This was undoubtedly some sort of planning room.

“This guy, Reynard… is… unbelievable. If you’re looking for him, he knows. He knows whoever decides to cross paths with him, I don’t know how, but he does.”

“Do you know much more about him?” Jack asked.

“Eh, not really; Reynard’s very private, I doubt even he knows much about himself.” The man replied, causing Ivan to step up.

“What does he look like?” Jack asked, making the man throw up his arms in confusion.

“I don’t know… like a pirate? I’m not too sure.”

“Where did you last see him?” Ivan asked, prompting the man to almost laugh at how silly he sounded.

“Last meet him? Last meet him?” The main said, fear in his eyes. “Most people who see him, are dead. The only people I know of that gets to meet him are his close friends. Other than that, you’re as good as dead.”

Jack and Ivan looked at each other with disbelief, were they really ready for the job? If so, they knew they’d be facing threats much greater than they expected, but hopefully, they’d be ready when the time came.

“Ok, let me rephrase that question. Where would we be likely to find him?” Ivan asked.

“You don’t have to worry about that.”

“Why?”

“He’ll find you.”

A silence erupted over the room, only to be broken by a man opening the door behind him.

“We’re about an hour away sirs.” The man whom opened the door said. “I suggest you get ready.” The man said, closing the door.

“Sure, we’ll go do that.” Jack said, motioning for Ivan to follow him.

“No, that’s ok, I’d rather stay here and ask some more questions.” Ivan told Jack. “After all, we’ve found our first real informant.” He said, making Jack shake his head.

“No, we’re not splitting up, that’s the worst thing you can do in these situations.” Jack said. “We don’t even know this guy, and it’s best to keep a gun handy at all times.”

“What? Are you crazy? There’s no way he’ll attack us. At least, not while we’re together.”

“So what’re you suggesting?”

“I… let’s just wait till the time comes.” Ivan said.

“Then what?”

“Then we act.” Ivan said, Jack still shaking his head. He hated the idea of getting found out, yet he believed the man they were just questioning was to be trusted, and knew what he was talking about.

“Alright, until then.” Jack said as he returned to the now bored sailor. “Listen, you’ve been a real big help and all, but I’m afraid we need to know even more about this Marcus fellow.”

“What else is there to know? You don’t have to look for him, my best advice is to turn around where you are, and start running.” The man said, fear still in his eyes.

“However, that’s not what we’re going to do.” Jack said. “We’re going to find him, no matter what it takes.”

“Well than you’re either really brave, or really stupid. Nobody just walks up to Marcus and expects him to listen.” The man said, his eyes widening. “By the way, what business do you have with Reynard in the first place?”

“Personal matters.” Ivan lied, luckily being believed. “Let’s just say he owes me something.”

“Well, good luck with that.” The man said, shaking his head in disbelief. “Once you land on Tortuga, get ready for the fight of your life.”

“Speaking of Tortuga,” Jack said. “Shouldn’t we be getting ready?”

“Yes, we’ll be there in about an hour according to that man, in the meantime, let’s go get our stuff and wait like real gentlemen.” Ivan said, walking back towards the cabin.

~~~~~~~~~~
1 hour later

The large frigate came to a slow halt as it docked on Tortuga’s finest. Soon, the dockworkers were able to tie the ship up, use the plank for unloading of untold amounts of both treasures and peoples, and just about everything else that goes on in a routine at the waterfront. But when Ivan stepped off the ship and onto the dock below, he felt something strange, not in the physical sort of way, but in the mental. For some reason, he felt as if everyone was watching… everyone. Even down to the last overgrown chicken.

It was much like Port Royal, or any other port in the Caribbean for that matter. But for some reason, it didn’t feel like he was welcomed there, like he didn’t belong. He looked around for any hope of someone who wasn’t probably hostile. To the left would be a street leading up to the main town, probably where the worst of the worst where. To the right was a bit more promising, but the people there still gave him a look they’d presumably give to every new stranger that enters the docks. But again, for some reason, they were the creepiest bunch Ivan had ever seen… well no there was that one group of merchants back in England, but still.

“Let’s go into the town, I bet we’ll find a mother lode of information there.” Jack said, making Ivan a little nervous.

“Actually, I’d like to check up on that navy outpost if you don’t mind. I’d like to have a good foothold in case we get compromised.”

“…Very well then, I guess we’ll be asking questions in the local tavern then.” Jack said, causing Ivan to roll his eyes.

“I’ll see to it that you stay sober.”

“What? But that makes it no fun!” Jack said, displeased.

“We’re not here for fun, we’re here to kill someone.” Ivan said, trying to insert some seriousness into the conversation.

“Hehe, that rhymes.” Jack said playfully.

“Oh that’s enough,” Ivan said. “We have to find this outpost, or else we may not have a place to sleep tonight!”

“Fine, but I better get some drink tonight.” Jack said, walking down the dusk bathed streets. “It’s not every day I get the opportunity you know.”

Eventually, the two came to a sign that read: Royal Navy Shipment Outpost

“This is it,” Jack said. “It has to be it; I doubt the navy has any other place of business on Tortuga that’s not strictly military.”

The two walked into the naval building, only to find an officer having at it with a lowly recruit.

“I told you, the wildwoods are where they hide out, it’s like a game they play, a game that includes… why I think we have new guests.” The officer said. “Are you two those replacements I sent for?”

“Uhh, no, we’re actually here on other important matters, by this I mean simple mercenary work, nothing unusa- whoa there! What’s wrong?” Jack exclaimed when he saw the naval officer burn with rage.

“I told those incompetent EITC know-it-alls that they weren’t to send any more mercenaries for the next month! How can they expect me to work with all these-“

“With all due respect sir, it wasn’t any EITC man who sent us, it was Commodore John Bishop.” Jack said, causing the officer to look back in disbelief.

“J-John Bishop?” He said, shocked at what he heard. “Commodore Bishop sent you? For what may I ask?”

“Well sir, Mr. Hood here has received orders to take care of Marcus Reynard, by any means possible.”

“Mr. Hood? I don’t believe any of us have met.”

“Oh yes, introductions,” Jack said. “I’m Captain Jack Henson, and this is my temporary partner, Ivan Hood.” Jack said, relieving the officer once he heard that Jack was part of the navy.

“So, you’re telling me that Commodore Bishop sent you on a mission to take down Marcus Reynard?” The man said.

“That’s correct… err…”

“Commander Simon Howell, I’m in charge of keeping the island out of chaos.” The man said, glancing over towards a man residing in the back of the building. “That man over there, he said he was attacked by pirates, maybe you can go ask him a few questions, unfortunately I can’t seem to get a word out of him.” Simon said.

“We’ll be sure to do that,” Jack said, gesturing towards Ivan whom had become acquainted with counting the floorboards. “Come on Ivan, let’s go talk to the fellow in the corner before we have ourselves a night at the tavern.” He said as him and Ivan started walking towards the lonely man sitting alone in a corner.

“Hello my good man, we were wondering if we could ask you a few que-

“No, no! You can’t ask me! If I tell you they’ll kill me!” The man said, looking up with bloodshot eyes. “All of them, they know where I am, I’m not safe here, not anywhere!” He said, attracting lots of attention nearby.

“Why? What’s going on? Who’s after you?” Jack asked, desperately trying to get through to the man.

“I-I can’t tell you, if I do he’ll kill us all!”

“Listen! Get a hold of yourself man! You’ll tell me all you know and you’ll tell it to me without leaving any details out, understand?” Ivan yelled.

“No, no no, I can’t, he’s… after me.” The man said, heavily breathing. I’m not telling you, or anyone else anything.” The man said, and to his word, he spoke no more. Ivan tried to get him to talk, but to no avail.

“It’s no use Ivan, he’s probably still afraid from the attack.” Jack said, putting his hand on Ivan’s shoulder. “Let’s go and have a drink, shall we?” He said, letting out one of the most pleasant words Ivan had heard all day.

~~~~~~~~~~

Comments?

[SEAKING23]

Epicness. "nuff said.