Cover courtesy of @BarryVosloo
An action adventure pirate tale with all the expected elements. The ship carrying the governor's daughter is attacked at sea and she is kidnapped by Tortuga's most notorious pirate, Terrance Hollick. Spirited away to t...
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The Bright Star anchored in a small cove around the south end of Hispaniola and Hollick, with Mullen and Cafferty again, sailed in the longboat along the coast to Port-au-Prince. Disguised as mourners, in clothing liberated from merchant ships, they put ashore close to port and made their way through the streets to slip into the line of legitimate mourners behind the family carriage. The procession moved at a stately speed and the long trek to the cemetery was finally over. Marines quick stepped into a double line facing the Francorte crypt and the mourners took up positions on either side.
Alicia, her father and the minister climbed down from their carriage and stood solemnly in front of the crypt. The carriage was moved away as was the hearse after removing the coffin. The minister stepped forward and began his sober eulogy, voice rising and falling as the sea with flowery sentiments and grave admonitions for those not heeding the word. Hollick fastened his eyes on Alicia, willing her to look his way, wishing he could just walk forward and be with her. It didn't work and even if It had, what then? He thought. The minister finished with a flamboyant blessing and an invitation to view the deceased inside the crypt.
As the crowd moved forward into a semblance of order, Hollick made his way around the edge and came within a few feet of where Alicia stood accepting condolences. He purposely coughed several times and at last attracted her attention as she turned in annoyance. Her eyes exploded in surprise and it was all she could do to keep from running down to him. He pointed to a spot behind the crypt and moved off before she drew more attention. When most had been inside and were leaving in small groups, Alicia stole away and came to where Hollick waited. The embrace was fierce and he told her he wanted her to come with him.
"I'm sorry to sound so harsh but you don't have an excuse any more. I want you with me Alicia. I have missed you more than I can say."
"Oh, Hollick... I don't know what to do." She hugged him closer.
"Come with me."
She stepped back, still holding his arms, her eyes seeking his with a hope for understanding.
"I can't just leave... like that. I have responsibility to-"
"Your father! You owe him nothing, Alicia. I've heard the way he speaks about you, like you are chattel... you and your mother both. Ornaments to be displayed at the Governor's request."
"That's not fair, Hollick, he's my father."
"And as your father I demand you step away from that scoundrel now!" They both turned in shock to find Francorte and a group of Marine s with rifles pointed at them.
"Father! No-"
"Silence. Get away from that man now."
"Go." Hollick squeezed her hand and eased her away. "Well, Governor, what next?"
