A Hidden Queen

Chapter 69

John paces the forecastle. He would stop every few laps to stare out at the blackness before grunting and continue for several more passes. Time was dragging for the older man. The boys had left several hours ago; he was unconcerned until weapons fire rang out across the expanse. The sound turned his stomach, twisting it uncomfortably as the naval ship came to life with shouted commands and further rifle discharge. John was seconds from mounting a rescue party, when it all ended. The uneasiness, and John's pacing, increased with the growing silence, morphing into a hated enemy.

"Captain." Pittman grouses. "You're wearing a path into my deck."

"Pittman all you do is grouse about the decking. I think you have forgotten whose ship this is."

"I am fully aware. However, as the man who keeps your decks running, it's bothersome to even out the planks every time someone decides to use it as pacing path. I'm old John, I'm liable to break something if I fall into the path you've worn."

"I'd be liable for your walking cane if that every happened."

"You're liable for it now boy." Pittman threatens.

"Come on, old man." Burnt nudges. "Leave Johnny boy alone. Can't you see he has things on his mind?"

"No Burnt, I had not a clue with that infernal pacing. He's going to fall through to the second level if he keeps it up."

"Well, I'd rather have him pacing than bugging me with it. The endless circles he talks himself about bring forth the worst headaches." Burnt jokes.

"You know I'm starting to question why I keep you two around if that's how you're going to treat me."

"It is all done with fondness John. You'd miss my company far too greatly." Burnt adds.

"It's bothersome fondness."

John smirks, the threesome sharing a quiet laughter at the antics of Burnt's fanning hurt. He fondly shakes his head, sighing heavily as he focuses on the consuming darkness.

"It has been some time."

"Aye, however, we did not expect thinks to play out as planned."

"But the gunfire, the shouts. You do not think?"

"We have not an inkling to the cause sir. And to conjure up ideas will only be bad for your health."

"Philips would not harm Josephine beyond repair John." Pittman adds matter-of-factly.

"You seem confident."

"Sir, Philips has gone through great lengths to ensure Joe's return. I cannot say what the purpose would be, but I feel in my gut that he needs her alive. I cannot know what state she is in; however, I do believe her to still be upon this earth."

"Besides that, John, Charlie is the one who is bringing her back. He will ensure she makes it to The Mary even if he does not."

John sighs heavily, pulling at the back of his neck. The logic was sound, but it did little to quell his persistent worry. His heart hoped for the best, but his gust turned for the worst.

"Oh deck! Boat off the port bow!" Wickman howls.

John's heart pounds against his chest as he peers up into the crow's nest, "Wickman! Who does she belong and how many occupy her?"

"I believe her to be ours' sir. Hard to tell as she's lodged in our shadow."

"Damn it Wickman! You have the best sight amongst us! Now use those keen eyes to tell me what I want to know before I poke them out myself!"