Ch 30

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Jack and Barbossa carried Marina aboard the Black Pearl. The severity of her wounds was obvious, and both men felt the weight of the situation. They gently laid her on the bed in Jack's quarters, the dim light casting shadows over her pale face.

Jack ran a hand through his hair, frustration and concern etched on his features. "These wounds are bad. If we don't get her help soon, she won't make it."

Barbossa nodded grimly, equally aware of the dire circumstances. "Aye, we need to act fast. But where do we go? We can't linger here."

Jack's eyes hardened with resolve. "We'll make port at Nosy Boraha off the northeastern coast of Madagascar, it's my father's base. There's someone there—a special healer—who can help her. Or so I hope she is still there. It's her only chance anyways."

Barbossa raised an eyebrow. "And what about the Pearl?"

"You'll take her," Jack replied, his voice steady. "Join Esmeralda and let her know what we've discovered. She can report back to Singapore, warn the others about Morgan's plans. Once Marina's stable, I'll meet up with you."

Barbossa considered the plan for a moment, then nodded. "It's risky, but it might just work. I'll bring the Pearl to Esmeralda, and we'll be ready when you're back."

Jack glanced down at Marina, her breathing shallow but steady. "She risked everything to get us this information. We owe it to her to see this through."

With that, Barbossa left to prepare the ship for their separate missions. Jack with a few crewmembers were dropped off at this port, watching over Marina. They had a plan, but now it was a race against time. He would get her the help she needed, no matter what it took.

The small group made their way while carrying Marina on a makeshift stretcher. The locals immediately recognized Jack. Whispers spread through the crowd as they gathered, curious and concerned.

"What's goin' on, Jack?" one of the villagers asked, eyeing Marina's limp form.

Jack didn't waste time. "She's hurt—badly. I need to know if Tia's still on the island."

The villagers exchanged glances before one of them nodded. "Aye, she's still here. Follow us."

They led Jack and his crew deeper into the jungle, where the foliage grew thicker and the air more humid. The path wound through towering trees and thick underbrush until they reached a small, hidden clearing. In the center stood a small, weathered hut surrounded by talismans and charms that swayed gently in the breeze. The place was alive with the scent of herbs and the soft murmur of running water nearby.

Jack stepped forward, leading his crew up to the hut. The door creaked open before they could knock, and Tia Dalma emerged from the shadows, her eyes sharp and knowing. Her dark, wild hair framed a face both mysterious and ancient, and she looked at Jack with a mix of amusement and curiosity.

"Jack Sparrow," she said with a heavy Jamaican accent, her voice smooth like molasses. "What brings you back to me after all dis time? And who is dis girl you carry with you?"

Jack's usual bravado was absent, replaced by genuine urgency. "She's in bad shape, Tia. She needs your help."

Tia's eyes narrowed as she inspected Marina, then flicked back to Jack. "Why should I help her, hmm? What makes her so special to you? You nevah beg for help before, Jack. Not even for yourself."

Jack swallowed, his gaze steady but pleading. "This isn't about me, Tia. Just... stop playing games and help her."

Tia's expression softened slightly as she saw the seriousness in his eyes. She stepped closer to Marina, studying her with a discerning eye. "Dere is more to dis girl den you say, Jack. You care for her... more dan you admit."

Jack didn't respond, but the silence spoke volumes. Tia motioned for them to bring Marina inside.

Once in the dimly lit hut, Tia gathered her supplies—herbs, roots, and vials filled with mysterious liquids

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Once in the dimly lit hut, Tia gathered her supplies—herbs, roots, and vials filled with mysterious liquids. She worked swiftly, her hands moving with practiced precision as she mixed a thick, dark paste. The air filled with the earthy scent of the concoction as Tia applied it to Marina's wounds, muttering an incantation under her breath.

"She'll need time," Tia said finally, turning to Jack and his crew. "De healing has begun, but now we must wait. Whether she survives... dat will be up to her spirit."

Jack exhaled slowly, relief and worry warring within him. He glanced at Marina, her breathing shallow but steady. Then he looked back at Tia. "Thank you, Tia. I owe you."

Tia smiled faintly, her eyes gleaming with the knowledge of debts yet to be paid. "Dere is always a price for my service, Jack Sparrow. But for now... we wait."

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