Nan's Jewel

Nan's Jewel~ Chapter 8 <3 Zillah

AN: This is the Mary Rose, the pride of King Henry 8th's navy fleet. Captained by Aaron Dalton.

Chapter 8- Zillah

When I awoke the next morning I looked around to find Edward lying beside me. Scandalously I wasn't afraid. In my heart I knew him to be a good Christian man who couldn't even hurt a fly. I knew he wouldn't have done anything while I slept, and having his protection felt well, especially in my tear weakened state. I rolled over, waking Edward, who slowly sat up.

"I'm going to have to find you a new gown."He complained.

"You are the one who lulled me to sleep in this one."I protested, playfully throwing a scrap of cloth at him.

I didn't mind Edward's company last night, after we had practically revealed our life's story to each other. I now knew the funny feeling I had around him to be love. I had prayed during my waking hours before dawn about it, and I was now sure of it. I had only known him for two days, yet I knew I loved him.

Edward slowly rose, and grabbed a clean white shirt from his armoire and a pair of black breeches before leaving. I caught his arm before he left.

"Please don't go."I pleaded, unsure whether I wanted to be alone.

"It would clearly not be proper for me to change in here with you Zillah."He answered, sounding like he didn't want to leave.

"I just don't want to be alone."I pleaded again.

Finally Edward and I reached a compromise. He would send for Johnny to get the tub and a new gown, and while I was bathing he would change. Thus we would both be occupied, and neither left alone.

My bath was cold, but it felt good to feel clean. Johnny had also found a few pins, so I was able to loosely pin up my hair. When I looked in the mirror I found my long auburn curls pinned up around my face. My violet eyes stood out bright against my pale skin, and peach gown. It was very simple, but very light, perfect for the humid weather on the water, and the constant pounding of the sun. Edward emerged from his curtained off portion of the room in a clean shirt and pants, and wrapped me in a gentle hug. This time I didn't pull away. He let go and holding hands we emerged onto the deck. Johnny at once came over and greeted the captain.

"Glad to see you up Cap'n!"He said cheerily. "Slept well I trust."

"Yes, how much progress have we made?"Edward asked, leading me up to the forecastle deck.

"Three days less than when we started!"Smitty, the helmsman said, laughing.

"What do you mean three days?"Edward asked, looking towards Johnny.

"You and her 'ave been asleep for two days."Johnny explained.

Edward looked at me, and I shook my head helplessly. Johnny led Edward and I off to the side.

"I 'eard the waterworks going on in there, and when you fell asleep I thought it best not to disturb ya."Johnny explained in a whisper.

"I thank you for that kind friend, but really, two days?"Edward asked.

"You two were crying for a good four or five hours."Johnny replied.

"Wow..."I murmured.

"Sails ahoy!"A voice cried from above us.

"Johnny, my spyglass."Edward said, reaching out his hand.

Edward looked through his spyglass to the ship that was slowly coming over the horizon, the sun at her back. I watched as his face fell, and his eyes glazed over.

"What is it Edward?"I asked, concerned.

"It's the pride of the King's royal navy, the Mary Rose. She'll catch up to us in no time."Edward explained.

"Oh Edward, I can't go back to prison, I can't. It was God's miracle I survived the first time!"I cried.

"Sir, they're asking for a show of colors."Johnny said, putting down the spyglass.

"Run up the Union Jack. Johnny, you and Zillah come with me."Edward ordered.

We followed Edward down to his quarters where we discussed our plan.

"They're looking for a woman, so if no woman was to be found, she wouldn't be here."Johnny thought aloud.

"What are you thinking Johnny?"Edward asked.

"If milady Zillah were to dress up as a man, and hide her hair, we would have another mate; so long as she doesn't speak."Johnny elaborated.

"That might just work..."Edward paused. "Hurry now, before they board."

Within minutes I stood in front of the mirror as a man. I wore several shirts to muffle my womanly curves, and Edward's tricorn over a bandana to hide my hair. The story was I was Edward's nephew, Shaun, visiting in Port Royal. I was mute, which would cure my higher pitched voice. By the time the King's soldiers stood on board Edward's ship, I was ready.