Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Verasaille on 02-12-2014, 13:40:05</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>02-12-2014, 13:40:05</strong>
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				It was a windy August night when the infamous Blackthorn sat in his cabin drinking rum and plotting out a secret course. He needed to hide the huge stash of treasure he had in his hold. His crew had already been paid, Blackthorn was generous and his crew was loyal. He had ten prisoners aboard his vessel, The Nightingale. He needed to offload the crate tonight, and get it stashed. His prisoners would do the digging, and unknown to them, it would be the last thing they did. <br><br>The brigantine was huge, forty guns she had and the crew of fifty of the toughest sailors and thieves the world had ever known. They were anchored off the bay near the small isle of Martinique. Most of the crew were in the Dancing Dolphin this night, except for Randy James and the First Mate Ol' Harold Golden. The prisoners were shackled together and brought on deck. Ten of the crew needed to stay on board and tend the vessel as guards. Randy and the Captain, and the navigator Sam Duncan came out of the cabin and walked the deck in front of the prisoners. <br><br>Captain Blackthorn grinned at the men lined up in front of him. Some had been crew of the last ship the pirates had sunk. Pleading for their lives they had been hauled aboard and put in chains. None were older than thirty and none were younger then twenty. All rough and just as blood thirsty as ol' Blackthorn himself. "I see a potential here. A potential of ruin or a potential of freedom." He walked back and forth in front of them and looked each in the eyes. Not a single one would he trust, not a single one trusted him. But it did not matter to the Captain. He needed labor, the ten men could carry between them all the treasure that Blackthorne wanted to hide.<br><br>"Below the deck sit five heavy crates, what is in those crates is my business and no one else's. But I need to deliver them to my plantation. I intend on retiring some day and I am stocking up now on goods. So my offer is this. Do the labor for me. Haul the crates and do the work, and I will set you free. That's right, free. If you agree I will ask for a blood oath. You take the oath to not reveal where we go. So...who will volunteer?" He looked them all up and down and took their measure. <br><br>It was no surprise to him that all ten men agreed to take the blood oath. So he lined them up with Randy and the keys and held out his dagger. "I suggest you let me pick a spot to draw a drop of your own blood to seal the oath. Never fear, I want you all to make it the whole trip without bleeding to death." he grinned and the torchlight glinted off his gold tooth.<br><br>--------------------------------------<br><br>And so it was that Blackthorn used ten condemned men to ferry his treasure to a secret location. Where it is and how to find it is the current gossip flying around the Caribbean. The rumors fly that there was seven men picked up after the five British navy ships sunk the Nightingale off the coast of Trinidad. To be sure the ship was salvaged and whatever could be was recovered. The seven men, including Randy James the cabin boy, were taken to Santa Lucia on the island of Martinique. There they awaited trial on the charges of piracy.<br><br>The rumors also went around of a young Spanish dancer by the name of Maria Gonzales crying out in anguish when she heard the news. She works at the Dancing Dolphin in the town of Santa Lucia. Her well known association with Blackthorn makes her a prime target of the pirates and others who might be looking to find Blackthorn's hidden treasure.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>02-12-2014, 21:00:30</strong>
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				KA-Booommm!! What remained of the Dutch Brigantine ripped apart as the munitions a few spare crewmen had stayed behind to light went off. All that remained above water now was a singular mast at a very odd angle, the very tip of the bow with the figurehead fast disappearing, and the most aft portion of the vessel which had completely come out of the water displaying the most excellent hit it received in the rudder from the Red Dawn's forward long guns. The ship's Danish flag still fluttering in the light breeze.<br><br>Now then Captain, back to the discussion we were having before being so rudely interrupted by your flailing ship's death throes. said Captain MacQuain. Were there captives taken from the wreckage of the Nightingale and if so where did you take them?<br><br><strong>You'll get nothing from me you barbarous toad,</strong> spat the Dutch Captain. To emphasize his distaste he did actually spit at Captain MacQuain which earned a very sound strike to the back of the head by the crewman guarding him.<br><br>Now now, good sir. Where are your manners? Such an act is undignified for a man of your stature. But I will take you at your word. <strong>Tic Nic.</strong> If you would please see to our 'guest.'<br><br>Tic Nic, ever silent in the presence of anyone save the Captain himself, simply nodded. While walking toward the captive Captain he produced a small glass vial and a ball of wax paper. Then retrieved a small thin dart which he generally used in his blow gun, which there had been a small handful of opposing crew that had felt its sting that day, they were the lucky ones. The wax paper held some kind of paste which he rolled the dart's tip in, then proceeded with much care to drip a couple of drops of the liquid in the vial onto the dart as well. Resealing and returning the vial and wax paper to their spots somewhere in the folds of his overlarge shirt, Tic Nic gestured to the guard who then held the Captain's head back exposing his neck. With a quick jab, Tic Nic stuck the Captain in the neck, quite probably the jugular, it was hard to tell since the dart was so small the wound didn't really bleed at all. Tic Nic turned and walked away wiping off the dart as he went and returning it to rest beside its partners.<br><br>Turning to the five other junior officers before him, Now gentlemen I must admit I have a strong dislike for military officers but I am willing to allow the man who answers my questions first to leave this ship alive, Capt. MacQuain said.<br><br>Silence, not a word was spoken from the five men. Very well, a reminder then of what you face should you catch my ire. Turning toward the Captain and signalling a crewman off to the side, who started pulling on the ropes beside him. These ropes had been attached to the bindings of the doomed Captain both hands and feet. Another rope was added against his forehead to hold his head up instead of simply drooping there.<br>Observe gentlemen, the concoction Master Tic Nic has given your Captain is one part sedative, so he's not feeling much of anything right now, nor does he have the capacity to even move his own head. The other part, the really interesting part is this. Drawing his main gauche he brought it up to the drugged Captain's chest, which had been bared by this point; and drug a clean, long, shallow cut. Normally the human body would be able to repair a cut like this over time with out any aid, but since being introduced to Master Tic Nic's poison the body will not be stemming the flow of blood from this wound. Or this one. Moving to the softer flesh of the stomach Capt. MacQuain repeated his earlier movement but with a little more pressure causing a deeper cut.<br>Now then gentlemen, with a wave he signaled the crewman many the ropes to begin his other duty, swinging the yard arm these lines were attached to back and forth across the deck so the dripping blood added a fresh coat of red to the weather deck. Who will tell me what I want to know?<br><br><strong>Yes, there were captives taken from the wreckage.</strong> Another one jumped in, <strong>To Santa Lucia, they were taken to Santa Lucia.</strong><br><br>Good good, now see that gentlemen that wasn't so hard was it. With a nod the others who not spoken up were hauled to different portions of the weather deck where the red coloring was fading and provided a fresh coat through slit throats. But there is one problem, I said only one of you will leave the ship alive... drawing a dagger from the belt of a nearby crewman the Captain neatly threw it into the deck between them. Mr. Sprill inform me once we have only one captive remaining, MacQuain said as he walked back to his cabin and shut the door making for his charts to best plan the route to Santa Lucia.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>05-12-2014, 00:27:15</strong>
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				The Dancing Dolphin was a large tavern with an upstairs for private room. It served as the town's inn and social gathering place. It was usually full of sailors and local townspeople who enjoyed a bit of the locally brewed rum. Also served was mead, and stronger spirits as the ships brought them from across the ocean.<br><br>Trade in the islands was thriving, but there was also a bit of tension. The current rumor was that the Brit's had claimed some of the southernmost isles and established plantations for growing cane and making rum. Of course anyone who had any influence or wealth at all bought the rum and cane sugar and its byproducts and sold them for tremendous profit.<br><br>Then there were those who allowed others to do the work and then confiscated the profits! Pirates were as plentiful as the dolphins in the islands. Hell, a crew could mutiny a government backed ship and kill the Captain, then turn the well armed vessel into a pirate ship. Not all pirates were the same however. Some were smart enough to take advantage of rumors and seek out the treasure caches of the more ruthless ones, out of sight of those ruthless ones of course.<br><br>Altogether it was a chaotic mix of rum induced madness and mayhem. The recent sinking of one of the more famous and deadliest, Blackthorn, had rumors flying faster than a parrot back to its home roost. <br><br>Maria was saddened at the loss of Blackthorn. He had been kind to her and a generous benefactor. Now she might need a new one. She dressed as usual in a flirty white peasant blouse with a tightly laced bustier of black velvet. Her full skirt of bright red flounced around her shapely legs as she moved from one table to the next, serving the patrons their rum and mead. She kept a smile on her face and flirted with the Captains making sure not to give anyone of them more attention than the others.<br><br>The time came for her to perform with some other girls and they set down trays and went on the stage at the north end of the spacious tavern. Five girls in similar outfits all pranced on stage and did their song and dance. Lifting skirts to twirl and tease the patrons with glimpses of frilly underwear.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>KurganofPrussia</strong> on <strong>05-12-2014, 05:14:04</strong>
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				Jan Coen Van der Beek<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120917045125/prowrestling/images/thumb/d/d3/Paul_burchill_pirate.jpg/196px-Paul_burchill_pirate.jpg) </div></div><br>Ship Name: Batavia<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/31/Batavia_01.JPG/320px-Batavia_01.JPG)</div></div><br>Location:&nbsp; 1 day off coast of St. Kitts, currently stationary in the water.&nbsp; A small packet ship sits beside the Batavia, flying a British flag<br>------------<br><br><strong>"What the hell do you mean he is dead??</strong>&nbsp; The captain, Van der Beek, looked at short and portly man with a mix of fire and fury, but a touch of welcoming relief.&nbsp; The man in front of him turned red and started to stumble over his words, looking back up at the tall man standing over him.<br><br><strong>"Never mind, you buffoon..."</strong>&nbsp; Jan waved at the man, although anyone could tell that he was not done with the conversation and that more information would be forthcoming.&nbsp; He looked up at his yardarm above his head and laughed.&nbsp; His crew was quickly taking down the British flag and taking it back down to the deck.&nbsp; This trick worked on so many ships at sea.&nbsp; It worked for the pirates, so he took it as his own.&nbsp; It worked in getting the small packet to stop for him.&nbsp; He never would have caught the small vessel.<br><br>The captain of the mail packet and his crew of 6 were standing nearby, waiting for their fate.&nbsp; To anyone else but the members of the crew, they would have thought that the Batavia and Captain Van der Beek himself were pirates.&nbsp; They were Dutch military, specifically protecting the Dutch slavers and other boats in the region.&nbsp; But, Cap was always looking for a good time, and was looking to secure HIS future.<br><br><strong>"So, what is in the envelopes, then?"</strong> Jan asked the flummoxed man.<br><em>"Re...Re... reward money for the captains of the ships that were instrumental in the sinking and death of Blackthorne."</em> the man said all officially.&nbsp; <em>"Each of the 5 ship captains have earned 200 gold from the crown and two commendations each for themselves and 2 to give to the crew for outstanding merit."</em><br><br>Jan looked in the packet and saw a small pile of gold and the parchments in a small strongbox.&nbsp; He nodded at his first mate, Thompson, and he wordlessly got the lockbox out of the boat.&nbsp; Thompson took it to his quarters.&nbsp; The captain started to raise a protest, but with a glance, Jan silenced his objections.<br><br><strong>"Where to... knave?"</strong> Jan looked back at the man.&nbsp; Turning red from the insult, he looked at Jan defiantly.&nbsp; The Batavia's master at arms moved closer to his back.&nbsp; Pressed, the captain answered.&nbsp; <em>"All... all... all I was told was that it was around Martinque... that is all I was told.&nbsp; I figured I would ask ships once I got close..."</em><br><br>The island was 3 days south with tack.&nbsp; It was on the way to Tortuga, which Jan needed to go to anyway to check on the boats there.&nbsp; There was no activity here near St. Kitts, so it was worth the sail.&nbsp; He looked at his navigator, and nodded.&nbsp; <strong>"South men... toward Tortuga..."</strong><br><br>Many of the men looked excited.&nbsp; There were some haunts there and many fine island women.&nbsp; They did not need to know that they would not actually be going to Tortuga right away.<br><br>The Captain cleared his throat to get Jan's attention.&nbsp; <em>"Sir.. I know the pirate code is to walk the plank, but I ask as an officer of the ...</em>.&nbsp; Jan put his hand up.&nbsp; <strong>"Sir.&nbsp; We are not pirates.&nbsp; You are under arrest for smuggling by orders of the Dutch government and have been confined to this ship until we reach safe Dutch port where you will be put on trial."</strong><br><br>The captain's face fell... then turned to anger.&nbsp; <em>"Dut...Dutch!!!&nbsp; There are no...&nbsp; CURSES!!!&nbsp; Smuggling???"</em><br><br><strong>"Do you have paperwork on this large sum of gold?&nbsp; What about the proper taxes for this excessive parchment?&nbsp; Have all of your men reported to the nearest authority and obtained the proper clearance to enter Dutch territorial waters?"</strong><br><br><em>"No... No... no one does that!!!"</em><br><br>The men started gathering at the sounds of the captain and one of his ruses.&nbsp; There were smiles all around.<br><br><strong>"As the commander of this ship, and ranked admiral in the Dutch navy, I place you under arrest until you can be transported to St. Kitts for trial.&nbsp; While on the ship, you attain deckhand status and are at the behest of Mr. Thompkins, the third watch commander.&nbsp; You can, for a price of... "</strong> Jan looked around at his crew who were laughing and holding up fingers.&nbsp; <strong>"50 gold each you can bail out until your trial."</strong>&nbsp; The crew laughed as the Brits's faces fell.<br><br><strong>"Any questions, swabbies?"</strong>&nbsp; The Brits were set apon and stripped of coats and ranks.&nbsp; <strong>"Scuttle that piece of shit and lets go south!!!"</strong> <br><br>The packet was set adrift and then torches thrown at it.&nbsp; Soon, it was a small bonfire of kindling.&nbsp; The large boat lurched south.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>05-12-2014, 06:05:54</strong>
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				The jail in Santa Lucia was not too crowded at least. That meant that each of the seven prisoners had his own cell.&nbsp; Randy sat in his cell, totally miserable. He had not been allowed to shave in three days. The stubble on his chin itched. He might have some kind of rash from the insects and mold growing in the dank jail. He wore the rags that were left after he had escaped the sinking ship and swam to a nearby island. He had not gotten far as his shipmates and he were hunted like animals through the jungle of the tiny island they had found.<br><br>The Jailer came to the cell and held out the tray of what they called food here. "Come and get it mate. Ye will swing in the morning along with the rest of yer scurvy mates." All that was on the tray was a small loaf of moldy bread and a bowl of watery soup. <br><br>Randy was at the cell door in a moment and begged with the Jailer. "Please, I am not guilty of slaving, I am only a victim here. Blackthorn kept me as his slave! I should be freed!" he pleaded once more.<br><br>The jailer shrugged. "Not me place mate. sorry..." he turned away.<br><br>"Wait!! Can I get you to take a message to my friend at the Dancing Dolphin? It's urgent! A man has to see to his affairs before...you know...Please!!! I know it's not much, but if you go to her she will give you a gold in exchange for the information, I swear it!!" he was desperate and the jailer knew it.<br><br>The jailer scratched his chin, a gold was a gold and he needed it badly. "A'right...but if ye be lyin' I swear I will have yer last night here on yer knees ta me! Ye hear?" He glared at Randy.<br><br>"Aye, I will do as you ask, if she does not give you a gold. Please just find Maria Gonzales at the Dancing Dolphin and tell her I, Randy James, beg her to come and see him in the jail tonight. She won't pay you unless you give her the whole message!" his warm brown eyes pleaded with the jailer.<br><br>"Yeah..a'right...I will do it..." he turned then as Randy bowed his head and rested it on the bars of the cell. <br><br>------------------------<br><br>Maria was flabbergasted as the jailer told his message and held out his hand. "What? Randy? He is alive? Yes!! I will go to him, here is the gold piece he promised." <br><br>She went to the bartender and whispered in his ear. "I need to get someone out of jail, got anyone who can do it quietly and without a fuss?"<br><br>Pegleg Dan frowned, "Who is it this time, Maria? I thought you gave up on swabbies and thieves?"<br><br>Maria bit her lip. "It's Randy and he needs help. He is not a pirate, he is innocent!"<br><br>Dan rolled his eyes. "We shall see. Maybe Captain Morgan if he comes in. I dunno. I make no promises lass. Go and see him. Tell him we will try."<br><br>Maria grinned and kissed him, running off to the jail to see poor Randy.<br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>07-12-2014, 18:24:58</strong>
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				After a time Mr. Sprill knocked on the captain's door and poked his head in. <strong>Aye cap'n it's done. Ye've only the one left now.</strong><br><br>Standing from his desk and checking his coordinates one last time before continuing, Thank ye Mr. Sprill let's 'ave touch more fun with him 'fore we turn to important matters. he said with a chuckle.<br>Both men came back into the light of the now noon sun, Ah my young sir it appears you have proven to be the rightful claimant to my hospitality. Congratulations, you are here by freed of any form of imprisonment brought upon you aboard this vessel.<br><br>His face held the expression of both relief and utter dismay, given that he had to kill a fellow officer to obtain his freedom,<strong> I, I thank you Captain for your mercies. What would you have me do until we reach the nearest port?</strong><br><br>It was an honest question of course, it was also a common practice to make a released prisoner a deckhand until hitting the next port but, Captain MacQuain was not most people. I have no tasks for you young sir save one, get off my ship. <strong>Wha- what?</strong> You heard me, get off my ship. You are not a prisoner and you are not part of my crew. Therefore you are a stowaway and a trespasser. I trust you understand the consequences of either charge well enough to remedy your situation, quickly.<br><br>Suddenly very nervous and shaking ever so slightly, looking around frantically, <strong>Captain, we're in the middle of the ocean there is nowhere for me to go.</strong><br>You are on board my vessel without my permission, how you fix that is not my problem. But if you insist on help, <strong>Mr. Tonnes,</strong> be a good man and help this young officer find his way.<br><br>With a grin that would make children cry Mr. Tonnes makes for the young officer drawing his cutlass. Many nicks and chips could be seen in the blade but with the battle still fresh in the young officer's mind he knew well it was sharp as any razor and began backing away into the railing of the weather deck. With a lazy swing Mr. Tonnes sent the officer half over the railing trying to avoid the strike. Quickly grabbing the front of his shirt Mr. Tonnes held him in the air a moment, <strong>This be your stop good sir, have a pleasant trip. Oh, and mind the barnacles she's due for a cleanin'.</strong> With a flex of his arm Mr. Tonnes pushed him out just a little farther and let go, the man disappearing over the side followed shortly by a splash. Turning and smiling at the captain he gave a curt nod, <strong> I believe we've set him on the right path sir.</strong> Trying hard to hold in a laugh until he finished the sentence, which he was then joined by the rest of the crew laughing at the joke.<br><br>The captain all grins stepped into the middle of the group, Alright gents, many o'you 'eard from earlier that we now be makin' for Santa Lucia to collect us a pigeon to lead us to Blackthorn's infamous horde o'treasure. So when we get there have fun we've not been to the Dancin' Dolphin in many months but we've got work ahead of us so don't draw the guards attention unless we've need of it. Turning towards the poop deck and the helmsman, Helmsman, change course to make for Santa Lucia! Let out all sails! The scurrying about the decks was pleasant to see, Capt. MacQuain rounded and headed up to stand beside the helmsman, he'd shown the most promise so far of all the recent applicants for a new navigator/quartermaster. This last order he nearly got perfect, Helm adjust course port by three degrees and hold her steady till the wind shifts or we strike Santa Lucia. <strong>Aye, sir.</strong><br><br>They weren't so far away from the island when they received the information and with her extra sails the Red Dawn proved the worth of her class. Santa Lucia was in sight without a spyglass by sunset. By the time they moored and settled with the harbormaster it was fully night. As the captain left the ship decked in his velvet tri-corner hat with its great plume and his lovely greatcoat hanging over top his weapons, a tactic he was fond of as it was less likely to draw unwanted attention right away. he turned to the crewmen left aboard, just enough to ready the ship in case there was a need for a quick departure. Your brethren should be back to relieve you by noon tomorrow if they are not send someone to find me and I will take care of it. Captain MacQuain made sure every time they were in port that every crewman got some time off, when crewman didn't want to comply they spent the next two ports confined below decks until they left.<br><br>Walking through town Macquain made his way to the dancing Dolphin, he didn't need to watch where he was going his feet knew the way. Of course you also only needed to follow the noise since it was the only real tavern/inn on the island. Once inside he stepped to the bar, Hey old wooden leg! Got anything over there that won't peel paint off the wall but will quench a thirst? Pegleg Dan familiar with multiple jokes and gibes about his leg, none of which he seemed to enjoy, spun around and locked eyes with Captain MacQuain who was at this point smiling widely. It's been a while old friend.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>07-12-2014, 23:13:27</strong>
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				The Dancing Dolphin was full this night. It was good business and Dan certainly did not mind it, his grin when he looked at Captain Macquain was proof of it. "Aye we just got a shipment o' ale from the good brewers on Cuba. Beer and ale we have a plenty. Or if ye prefer the finest o' rum we have locally made. It don't peel paint, but it will warm yer insides and make ye crave more! What suits yer fancy, good sir?"<br><br>The waitresses were all busy carrying mugs of ale and rum through out the tavern. Rowdy voices filled the place as old friends and enemies alike traded insults and good natured gibes on the news of Blackthorn's demise. Everyone wanted to find the fabled treasure. But none had a clue of where it might be. Truth be told every one of them had some ideas of where it could be found, but none wanted to share what they knew or thought they knew of it.<br><br>--------------------<br><br>Maria hurried through the streets until she got to the local jail. She was allowed in after a thorough search by the over eager jailer. "I am not carrying anything illegal to the prisoner! He is a friend and I just want to console him."<br><br>The jailer knew he could not get away with rape and he did not want to give her back the gold piece, so he let her go. "Aye, go see tha lad. Naught ye can do anyway."<br><br>Maria straightened her clothing and then walked behind the jailer as he jingled the keys. "You never know, Grundle, I might find a way to get him pardoned!" she declared with a saucy wink.<br><br>Randy heard them coming and reached out through the bars. "Maria!! I am so glad you came. Please tell me you do have a way to get me pardoned. I tried to tell them I was shanghaied off a merchant vessel from England and kept against my will. But they did not believe me. I am so scared they will hang me in the morning! I am innocent!"<br><br>Maria held his hands and tried to comfort him. "Randy, I know you are just a victim here. I will go and see the Governor and maybe I can plead your case and get you pardoned." <br><br>The jailer chuckled and went back to his chair, just out of earshot if they whispered.<br><br>"I am glad you came, Maria. You know I can only give some&nbsp; hints, I do have information that may help someone to find the treasure. Maybe if you can't get the Governor to pardon me...you can find someone to break me out?" Randy whispered to her.<br><br>"What do you know? Randy, I thought Blackthorn always hid his treasure on an island somewhere. and he always told me he left no witnesses." she replied in an equally quiet whisper.<br><br>Randy leaned out through the bars as much as he could, "Aye, and he never took me with him on his sloop. It was a one man smaller boat that he used to take his treasure to the right island. He made the rest of the ship wait in this harbor, usually giving all who wanted a shore leave. It has to be an island close to this one. Or maybe on the other side? He often said he left a map that only a smart man could decipher. Do you have any idea what he meant?"<br><br>Maria had no clue. "I am not sure Randy, but he did pay for my tattoos and sometimes gave me some odd remark about following the rainbow to the pot of gold." She kissed him as best as she could through the bars. "I will go and see what I can do. I will be back, don't lose hope!" <br><br>And then she went to the Governor's house to plead Randy's case. But of course the Governor could not be swayed. She went back to the Dolphin and back to work. Hoping she could talk some brave foolhardy soul to help her break Randy out of jail.<br><br>&nbsp; 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>11-12-2014, 21:49:00</strong>
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				MacQuain had to chuckle about the paint reference, Well met good sir. I must confess, under this refined personage is just an ole salty sailor. I'll be taken yer brew of rum if ya please. An I'll be thankful it does not peel paint as I want ta keep my insides inside. He said ending with a large but tired looking grin.<br><br>Though truly he was wide awake and alert as he ever was. But he'd learned that there was always someone watching. Dan was well aware of the ruse by now as they had sat across the bar of one another for years now. As his mug passed to him he laid down an extra coin on the bar side of the mug to limit others from its viewing.<br><br>Ole' Danny-boy. I hear tell they've stuck a few of Blackthorn's surviving crew in the cells up the hill might there be any truth to that? An' if so what else can ye tell about the place?
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>11-12-2014, 23:06:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dan nodded, his face&nbsp; crinkled in a smile. "Aye, they be thar, but scheduled fer hangin' in the mornin'. The Guv'nor won't take bribes and he just said execute them all. Thar be one who might know somethings though. His name be Randy Jones. Was Blackthorn's cabin boy. I heard he was taken as a slave and worked his way to the good graces o' Blackthorn. Hard tellin' though if it be true. Yonder Maria thar thinks he be innocent. She may be needin' some help to get him out. Don't tell anyone I said so." he grinned.<br><br>Maria was busy clearing tables and avoiding grabby hands, her skirt flipping occasionally to show off her pretty legs. The low cut peasant blouse was showing off her lovely curves and the red vest she wore was laced tight. She had long dangling silver earrings and a few of her numerous tattoos were seen on her arms and legs. Around her neck a silver medallion was fixed on a velvet collar. It marked her as Blackthorn's wench to all who knew of such things.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>12-12-2014, 03:40:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Listening intently to Dan's words impart because it was exactly what he was looking for and two the damned tavern was so loud by now. Though he obliged to turn to see who Dan was pointing at as he mentioned Maria.<br><br>Whheeww, MacQuain thought, Blackthorn atleast had very good taste. At least if this conversation turns out to be a bust for information it could be pleasant in other ways.<br><br>Half turning back to Dan and nodding, Thank you my friend. You are as always most helpful in finding ways for me to entertain myself. Once again saying one thing and meaning another to good old Dan. MacQuain slipped off the stool and made his way to Maria's side.<br><br>Pardon me my dear, but I do believe you've ended up on the wrong side of town. Surely such a radiant, and delicate flower such as yourself belongs in the pampered gardens of royalty and in the base swaller that us common folk find comfortable.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>12-12-2014, 04:32:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				If she had not been so worried about Randy, Maria would have paid more attention to who was in the bar.&nbsp; As it was she could not help but notice the Captain had a fine way with words. "Well, now, aren't you the flatterer! And who might you be? I am Maria." she smiled at the Captain. <br><br>Now she was no ordinary wench. She knew there were rumors flying about her now dead lover, Blackthorn. No doubt there were plenty of pirates seeking to find his lost treasure. Well, to be honest she would love to find it too. Her eyes took in the smiling Captain and wondered what kind of line he might toss at her?<br><br>She was working and so had to stay busy. "Perhaps you will have a seat and I can bring you a drink or some dinner?" she smiled at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>13-12-2014, 17:54:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a face like yours I'm likely to follow any request or demand you might make. As to my na- At that moment some drunken bastard stumbled in between them. <br><strong>Now look 'ere bitch!</strong> With than a little spittle flying from his lips as said it, <strong>Ole' Blackthorn ain't round no more ta keep yas to himself. So you an' me is headin' up to yer room and you're gon-</strong> MacQuain had had enough. He grabbed the man by the chin from over his shoulder and kicked out his knee pulling his head back at the same time. Even as the man hit the floor MacQuain's rapier was out in a reversed grip which he stabbed straight down into the man's chest puncturing lung and heart.<br><br>I do so hate to be interrupted, and one should speak more kindly to a lady, regardless of her profession. Looking directly at Maria now, If you would pardon me a moment we shall continue our conversation shortly. Taking to the nearest table, he faced the bulk of the room. Shouting over the music that was playing, his words quickly hushing them.Now listen up all of you! The rumors are true Blackthorn is dead! Surrounded by five of her majesty's warships they shot him and the Nightingale to pieces! That being said, this lady here,pointing to Maria. Was Blackthorn's woman, but you'll not be running off with her as this bastard thought. Flicking his sword towards the man on the floor now very dead and his blood still pooling beneath him. Raising the blade up and pulling out a handkerchief from inside his coat he wiped the blood from his blade. For those who paid attention noticed this was not a clean cloth but one that was once white now covered in varying hues of red and brown, eerily like the colors of blood. I am Captain MacQuain of the Red Dawn. I am also known as the Red Gentleman, Mr. Red, or Mr. Blood. This woman is now under my care and any who choose to oppose that will learn exactly how I earned my name. <br>Sliding his rapier back into the scabbard with a loud click he stepped down and turned to Maria. Now then my dear, I've my drink already but dinner I've not had. Perhaps you will join me and we can chat to greater length, I've heard you have a friend in dire need of some help.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>13-12-2014, 21:28:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her first instinct was to run and hide when the ugly one made a pass at her. Old Dan pulled his pistol out and hit the ships bell mounted on his wall. "Here now! No one takes me girls without their consent. Tha next one who tries is dead! Ye got that?" He was known as a deadly shot with his pistols and he had a couple under his counter, all primed and loaded.<br><br>A few of the dead man's friends hauled him away, to clear the room. They looked pretty angry, but did not appear willing to fight McQuain or Dan. The rest of the customers settled down and resumed their drinking. The floor of the tavern was mostly sawdust and could be cleaned up with a broom after all had left. The blood soaked into the sawdust and no one seemed to mind it.<br><br>Maria looked at Captain McQuain and nodded. "Yes! My friend Randy is in the jail. He is just a youngster. He was in Blackthorn's service. He had no choice. I mean, he was the cabin boy, but he is not the bloodthirsty killer the rest of them are. Please, Captain McQuain, can you help Randy?"<br><br>She did not mention the fact Randy knows some things. Maybe because she is not sure what he knows if anything. Not wanting to give anything away or set up poor Randy for torture or worse.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>13-12-2014, 22:28:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Well my dear, let us sit and eat. You seem a little flustered over all the happenings here this evening. I tell you the truth I knew some of Blackthorn's men were taken. I came here with the intent of speaking with them, and before you tell me you can't sit for a few you let me handle ole' Dan. As it is I am, a gentleman. He couldn't help but smirk as he said the last words. Truly he had no designs for her, at least not tonight. But as he sat back he scanned the room knowing he'd put a target on himself when jumped on the table declaring who he was. If any souls here had a shred of 'upstanding character' they'd run and report him to the city guard. He was wanted for at least a collective thirty acts of piracy against every royally endorsed navy in these waters. Most of which involving the killing of captured officers.<br><br>Now my dear as it happens I've made a few prison breaks in my time but I have little time to work with so any information about the jail, guards, and your poor friend's location within would be most helpful. Lifting his mug he took a long draw of rum from it. It was a pleasant burn going down the local boys knew what they were doing to be sure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>13-12-2014, 22:51:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At this point, Maria was getting desperate and she knew that Randy had limited time. She leaned close to the handsome pirate captain and whispered to him. "Randy's cell is near the top of the building. If you look out to the town you will see the prisoner's tower rising above the Town Hall. I think he was trying to do something with the window of his cell. He might have tied his scarf on the bars to mark it as his. You can tell it is a bright red. I have no clue how you will get up there or what you can do. But please help the dear boy, I would be so grateful!" She leaned to kiss his cheek. <br><br>Meanwhile in Randy's cell he was looking morosely at what he was assuming might be his last meal. Moldy bread and a bit of watery soup. He had indeed tied his red scarf to the bars of the cell window. The bright red could be seen from the ground level. Sloping roofs of reddish tile could possibly be negotiated and the buildings next to the Town Hall were close enough for an agile person to jump from one to another.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>14-12-2014, 14:50:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Very well my dear. That's a pretty long reach but I think we can manage. Now then, how about that dinner? Are you sure you won't join me? Not that he'd be much company now as his mind was racing, building a plan to break into and out of the jail's tall tower.<br><br>As much as he would like a fast turn around, he couldn't simply blast a hole in the side of the tower it was to high for any one to jump down and his long guns would never reach even with the perfect angle. Angle, angle... Ha he might have something though. But it needed to start now.<br><br>Over in the corner ever ready but out of the way was Tic Nic, waving him over and in a low voice he told him, We've ta make a jail break. Assemble our best and dress em in them dead officer uniforms we keep stowed in the hold. But not everyone, we need 'prisoners' to escort we also need a second group. I fill everyone in on the rest o'the details in an hour in the shadow of the jail house. With a nod Tic Nic left stopping at different men in the tavern and seeming only to make eye contact before parting the men standing and following shortly there after.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>selfexiled</strong> on <strong>14-12-2014, 18:15:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After his dinner MacQuain left and headed for the jail. Meeting his selected crewmen there in the shadows, Now boys I must apologize for shortening your evenin but we've a lead on information to Blackthorn's treasure and when we collect that treasure everyone will be rich enough to never have to leave the tavern again. Which brought a few smiles of course. Now here's the plan.<br><br>Myself and Mr. Tonnes will be taking three of you with us dressed as officers of the British Navy, and another four dressed as you are but no weapons, well none that can be found at least. We'll be escorting you into the jail as prisoners. But only to get us inside. Now Mr. Sprill and Tic Nic will take the rest of you and cause a disturbance. Don't worry about getting arrested worry about getting killed. Remember we'll already be in the jail, let us handle the officers in charge there. With a grin he finished with, Now go and make a large enough ruckus to make the most of the jailhouse to empty out.<br><br>At that Tic Nic started walking away with some of the men. Mr. Sprill piped up, <strong>So Cap'n what if they start shootin at us?</strong> Mr. Sprill your task is to simply get them away from the prison so we can get control of it for a time. If they start shooting fire off a couple but surrender with the knowledge that they'll be bringing you to me not some pompous ass trying to make rank in society. <strong>Aye, sir.</strong><br><br>MacQuain's group stayed a ways down from the entrance to the jail, far enough away to not be readily noticed by the gate guard and close enough to town to hear when Mr. Sprill got the crowd going. Which didn't take long, MacQuain would have to ask later what all he'd done to incite such a riot for it seemed that the whole town was going mad. With that his group started walking up the hill to the main gates.<br><br><strong>Hold there,</strong> said the guard. <strong>Announce yourself and your business at this time of night.</strong><br><br>I am Captain Bartholemew Brigden of her Magesty's Navy these are my officer's and a small collection of captured pirates fresh from the sea. To add to the ruse he had the men jump in the ocean to drench themselves before waiting to arrive so that they would be damp but not soaking when they made the gate.<br><br>The guards popped to attention and saluted, <strong>Well met sir. I must ask though why you chose to bring them in so late?</strong><br><br>A simple answer, our duel with their ship wounded us a bit more than we'd hoped and were slow in returning to port, and I don't want this filth upon my ship any longer than necessary.<br><br><strong>Aye sir, understood.</strong> Turning the guard in charge opened the gate and led them in to the receiving office where it so happened the warden was taking dinner.<br><br>After announcing who they were and their purpose the guard left. The warden having more than a little trouble showing his disdain for being interrupted at dinner, though he looked like it might do him some good. <strong>Forgive me Captain had I known ahead of time of your arrival I would have had a seat prepared for you. As it is I do have a fair supply of wine if you would care to join me? My men and your officers can handle the prisoner transfer I'm sure.</strong><br>Turning to Mr. Tonnes, Mr. Donovan you heard the warden take them to the cells and be sure they're properly settled. Taking a seat at the small table beside the warden he graciously took the freshly poured glass of wine and sniffed it then took a small sip holding it for a moment before swallowing. It is a pleasant vintage, Italian?<br><br>Just then another guard came barging into the room, <strong>Warden sir! The town's gone mad, they're rioting in the streets!</strong> Turning to the captain of the guard who had been summoned to handle the transfer, <strong>Go, settle those peasants. Take all who are not on watch.</strong> My word warden is such a show of force necessary? <strong>It is Captain, these backwater commoners only understand force. The last time this happened we played nice and lost several of our own men in the process I'll not have that happen again. Plus there's a contingent of her Majesty's army here on the other side of the island I'd like to be able to tell them after the fact that we handled it without them.</strong> This drew a smug look on his face.<br><br>You know warden perhaps you should take some notes though, from the army, as they have a roster of all commissioned ship captains and their officers. And you'll find that none of us here on are on any of those lists. With a sweep of his hand indicating all his men they snapped into motion putting down the remaining soldiers in the room and securing all accesses. In the flurry of motion the warden didn't notice MacQuain draw his main gauche until it was poking at his throat. Now I'll be taking your keys to all the cells, holding out his other hand. <strong>Wha-what do you think you're doing, you'll never get away with this.</strong> Keys, now. I could just as easily search a corpse you know. That got him moving, fumbling the keys out of a pocket in his waistcoat he dropped them into MacQuain's hand. Thank you warden. With a quick jab he punctured the warden's left jugular vein. The look of shock and surprise lept across his face. <strong>Why, why did you...</strong> Simple you can could identify me later.<br><br>Barr the door, and lets head up to the tower. Everyone moved as one, as they met guards on post they put a knife in them the men dressed as officer's being the only ones to get close enough to do so. They made their way up the tower to floor holding all of Blackthorn's men, after dealing with the guards Macquain turned to the cells, Gentlemen Blackthorn has reached from beyond the depths of Jolly Roger's locker to grant you a pardon for your crimes.<br><br>---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br><br>Mr. Sprill had certainly gotten the crowd going inciting a grand riot which he and his team actually took no part in save Tic Nic who had filled some glass bottle with something odd and then tossed them at the feet of the on coming guard throwing up a cloud of noxious fumes, nothing fatal, but disorienting and unpleasant. The group snuck around the alleyways to come behind the guard watching as the masses turned toward them in a small but angry tide. With that they ran up the hill meeting the same guard the Captain had but being no where near as diplomatic, one lay bleeding out as they left them the other unconscious.<br><br>From there they took to the walls quietly removing the guards from their posts and trading out with them. once the majority of the guards were switched Mr. Sprill and Tic Nic searched for a secondary exit knowing eventually the main group would come back to the front gate.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Pirates! The Haunted Isle-IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Verasaille</strong> on <strong>18-12-2014, 04:23:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The commotion outside seemed to be putting the whole town at an uproar. Randy got up from his meager straw mattress and looked out the barred window. All he could see was smoke and the ships masts in the harbor. When he heard the tramp of boots coming up the stairs he turned to see who it was, thinking it was more prisoners.<br><br>Barr the door, and lets head up to the tower. Everyone moved as one, as they met guards on post they put a knife in them the men dressed as officer's being the only ones to get close enough to do so. They made their way up the tower to floor holding all of Blackthorn's men, after dealing with the guards Macquain turned to the cells, "Gentlemen Blackthorn has reached from beyond the depths of Jolly Roger's locker to grant you a pardon for your crimes."<br><br><br>"Praise be!!" Randy shouted, and the rest of the ill fated crew cheered as well. "Let me out of here!! And who might you be, kind sir?" He was clearly happy. He grabbed the red bandana out of the window and tied it around his neck once more. There should not be any question the very young man, looking to be maybe eighteen, was Maria's friend Randy.<br><br>The rest of the scurvy lot looked to be the worst dregs of humanity. Scruffy and foul mouthed they all claimed to know where Blackthorn buried his treasure.&nbsp; Of course they all lied, because none of them knew a blessed thing. They figured once out of this hellhole they would scatter and find it on their own.<br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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