//------------------------------//
// Ch18 The Crimson Accord 
// Story: Under Crimson Sails 
// by Priceless911 
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Captain Sail sat in his dungeon cell with his two officers, as the rest of the Crimson Pirates sat in another cell across the dungeon as they mumbled a mellow shanty to pass the time. With the crew’s tune being the only sounds heard in the dingy dungeon, the annoyed Gunner looked over at his captain and spoke, “Great plan capt’n, just wave the white flag at the first ship we see.”
Captain Sail looked at his officer and spoke, “Stop your bellyachin’ I told ya we were going to turn ourselves in. so any complaint ya have is your own doing. Why do ya think I fired ya before?”
Pinpoint nodded “Aye that’s true, though I’m surprised, I figured the Cutters would meet us first. Not the navy.”
“Who do you think notified them of your arrival? Even you should know that alone, the Equestrian Navy is incompetent.”

At that moment, Everypony in the dungeon looked to the Main entrance as Jasmine Mist entered the room wearing a noble gown with Princess Celestia entering beside her as she replied, “Come now Lady Mist, true that they are inexperienced in fighting pirates but that’s no reason to insult them.”
Jasmine nodded, “I may have said it your majesty, But they were thinking it.” She looked at Captain Sail, “In fact, they’ve been saying it for two decades. Isn’t that right captain?”
Captain Sail smiled in a charming manner as he trotted to the bars on the cell and leaned against them, “Miss Jasmine Mist… showin’ your noble side are we? Just as beautiful as the day I left.”
Seeing that he was trying to use his charm, Jasmine trotted to the cell as she reached in and lifted a part of his cape up as she held it in her hoof, “And you… with that cape and that rugged exterior… Much different from your old noble side… back… when you…” She reached up and grabbed his vest by the collar, “Left me…”
With that, Jasmine yanked his vest towards her as the collar of his vest pulled his head in and bashed it against the bars of the cell.

After hitting the bars’ Jasmine released his vest as the stunned captain fell to the floor. As Captain Sail laid rubbing his head, Jasmine smiled, “Been waiting twenty years to do that. But I think we can move onto the subject at hoof.”
Acting as if the attack didn’t happen, Jasmine looked at Princess Celestia and spoke, “I believe the Captain and his crew chose to surrender to you in hopes of negotiating a pardon for himself and the rest of the Crimson Pirates.”
As soon as he got his senses back Captain Sail picked himself up and looked at Jasmine, “Negotiate? I don’t recall tellin you anythin’ bout that?”
Jasmine smiled, “The Cutters have their way of finding out these things.”
Princess Celestia spoke next, “So… is this true? Do you intend on striking a negotiation with me?”
Captain Sail looked at Princess Celestia and removed his hat as he bowed, “That we do your majesty.”

Seeing his formal actions, Princess Celestia spoke, “You were once referred to as Lord Sail were you not? If I remember right you were once head to the Sail family of horseshoe bay.”
Captain Sail Rose form his bow as he replied, “You remember me… I’m flattered. I was once known as Young Master Sail, Lord was my father, but I prefer Captain now-a-days. As you know, my time as a noble has long since passed.”
Princess Celestia nodded with an unamused expression, “So’ I’ve heard. Let it be known that if not for Lady Mist’s request to hear your offer, I would have ignored your plea to see me, and you would be tried for piracy, which… would also share the same punishment as treason.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Then you both have my thanks. The accord I wish to negotiate is the full pardon of myself and the rest of my crew, but if the terms aren’t enough, I’m willin’ to just offer my crew’s pardon and add myself to the pool.”
Curious, Princess Celestia replied, “And what pool is that? What do you offer in return for you and your crew’s pardon?”

Captain Sail stood up strait as he put on his hat and replied, “In Horseshoe bay, sits the ship that I’ve been sailing on for the past two decades.”
Princess Celestia spoke up, “The ship you stole?”
“Borrowed without permission… but since she’s done what I borrowed her for, I felt its time that I return her and everything taken the day I left… only I doubled the supplies for you… so, in exchange for my crew’s pardon, I offer your ship, its cargo which was purchased in all honesty, and myself.”
Princess Celestia gave the untrustworthy pirate a stern look as she though over the offer for a few seconds before replying, “My investigation mentioned that you stole-”
“Borrowed.”
“Yes… borrowed, that ship in order to find the pirate Iron Hoof who was reported to have killed your father on the sea. Am I to assume you found him after all these years of searching?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye I did your majesty. I found him… and killed him.”
Curious Princess Celestia replied, “Really… if I may ask, where did you find him?”
Captain Sail replied, “Iron Hoof, has been taking refuge in the Leviathan Sea. Where he and his crew live.”

Princess Celestia was surprised, “The Leviathan Sea… how? There is nothing there but open ocean.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Wrong… there is an island in those waters, Iron Hoof and his family has been living there for three centuries. Though I’m not at liberty to say anymore. If you wish to know more, I’d suggest you to speak to Queen Novo, after all it is a hippogriff isle.”
Princess Celestia replied in confusion, “Queen Novo? But why would the queen of the Hippogriffs rule an island that has harbored a pirate?”
Captain Sail replied, “As I said, I’m not at liberty to say, it’s all a secret that I agreed to keep.” 

Princess Celestia didn’t know if she trusted his story, “A secret… why?”
Captain Sail smiled, “S’pose there is part of that secret that requires a little added security. S’pose there is reason for hiding it on an uncharted island, in an uncharted sea guarded by a territorial, and somewhat moody titan. After all, I would think that all royals even you, have a secret that you hide from the rest of the world, merely for the hopes of keeping them safe from what they could discover. Aye?”
As she heard the explanation, Princess Celestia started thinking about a particular subject as Jasmine looked at her and whispered, “Eden…” 
Knowing that her word was the same thing as what Captain Sail was talking about, Princess Celestia sighed as she replied, “Suppose there is… so… Iron Hoof is now dead?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye…”
“And you want a pardon for your crew in exchange for… the ship you borrowed and supplies stolen?”
“Aye… and myself if needed.”

Acting serious Princess Celestia replied, “There is one flaw with your proposal. You see, you are already in my dungeon, and your ship already in my harbor, so tell me this. What plan did you have if I were to deny your request?”
Before Captain Sail could reply, Jasmine turned to Princess Celestia and replied with a serious tone, “Then I would have no choice but to evoke the Cutter’s contract.”
Princess Celestia looked at Jasmine in surprise as Captain Sail replied in confusion, “Contract?... what would that mean lass?”
Jasmine looked at Captain Sail out the corner of her eye as she replied, “Almost a thousand years ago, My ancestor with Princess Celestia’s permission established the Cutters. The purpose behind it was to create a deterrent to assist in defending the kingdom from any foreign power or organization that would attempt to attack Equestria or its ponies. One of the privileges given to us, was total immunity of the crown and its laws, so long as the action that violated the laws was not only kept secret form the public, but was also required to maintain peace in the kingdom. And another was freedom to nullify decisions of the crown if the case in the matter was strictly involving the kingdom’s safety. In this case, Pirate’s and their actions towards our navy and merchant vessels.” She looked back at Princess Celestia, “Since Captain Sail’s ship was-“
Both Captain Sail and Princess Celestia tried to fill in the next word, “Borrowed.” “Stolen.”
Jasmine sighed, “Taken, from the royal navy, Then his actions and his punishment can and will fall under the decisions of the Cutters. So, asking for your pardon was, with all due respect… a courtesy.”

Seeing this surprised both Captain Sail and Princess Celestia as Pinpoint trotted up to his captain and whispered, “Wow… she too knows how to threaten a god… and you didn’t want to marry her.”
Captain Sail looked at Pinpoint and shushed him as Princess Celestia started to giggle, “So serious… I was only curious. Of course I was going to accept his pardon.”
Although both Captain Sail and Jasmine were thinking the same thing, Captain Sail was the only one to reply, “What?”
Princess Celestia explained, “You left the kingdom with a stolen ship to hunt down the one responsible for your father’s, and many more deaths at sea. Then you returned knowing that you would most likely be executed for your actions bringing with you twice the supplies and offering to barter those plus your own life for the safety of your crew. Those actions alone show me that your intentions were noble in their own way. Then there is the recommendation by Lady Mist who is usually very harsh in her punishment for threatening the kingdom’s safety. Though I disagree with her decision I know that she has always followed a strict code of killing one to save a hundred. So her speaking on behalf of you, the pony that left her at alter, must meant you pose no true threat to the kingdom or my subjects.”

Captain Sail looked at Jasmine and smiled, “Aye… she’s always had a good head on her shoulders, one of the reasons I regret my old actions.”
Jasmine smiled back as Princess Celestia replied, “So it’s settled, Captain Sail, you and your crew are hereby pardoned for your crimes of piracy in the kingdom of Equestria and its allies, however… you alone will still answer to the assault and damages charges of the many ships and sailors harmed by your actions, so… I will pass punishment for those crimes to Lady Mist.”
Jasmine nodded, “Agreed,” She turned to Captain Sail, “Captain… I’m currently the owner of a coastal business in Horseshoe Bay which requires special attention. If the Sail Shipwright And Transit Company fails, then not only will the city of Horseshoe Bay become a ghost town, but many will be out of the job and the coastal surveillance of the kingdom may very well fall into disarray. So your punishment will be to take back the Sail Shipwright and Transit Company and restore it to its former glory. By doing this you will revive the cities value and return it to the thriving coastal town it once was.”
Captain Sail replied with skepticism, “That’s it?”
“That’s it.”
Captain Sail added, “And I can control it however I see fit?... even from abroad as my father did on occasion?”
“If nessisary, yes.”

Captain Sail smiled as he trotted to the bars and put his hoof through them, “You’re twistin’ my hoof lass, but ya got yourself a deal. If you need me that much, I'll take back my fathers company and raise it from the shallows.”
Jasmine shook his hoof in agreement before looking at Princess Celestia and smiling, “It’s settled then, Thank you for understanding your majesty.”
Princess Celestia smiled as she turned to leave the dungeon, “The Cutters have saved this kingdom many times over without thanks from myself or its subjects. I think this will help with our accumulated debt.” She looked at Captain Sail, “Oh and Captain?” 
Captain Sail looked at her as she continued, “Your crimes now are pardoned, but that means that any law you brake hence forth will not be overlooked.”
Captain Sail removed his hat and bowed, “As grateful as I am, I feel slightly offended that you would suggest I would do such a thing.”
Seeing through him, she repeated, “I mean it… though the stories I hear from my guards are entertaining, I want them to stop. You will not harm or rob any innocent ship from this day forth am I clear?”

Captain Sail rose from his bow as he replied, “As clear as the Crystal Sea majesty.”
Princess Celestia nodded, “Good, now whether it was you pirates or the cutters who swiped the keys from the guards, but since your pardoned, I'll leave you to show yourselves out, under Lady Mist’s escort of course.”
The crew looked at each other in confusion as Captain Sail with his hat still off, reached into the brim of his hat before pulling out a ring of keys and replying, “Then we will see to it, have a grand day your majesty.”
Princess Celestia smiled as she left the room, while Captain Sail put his hat back on and started unlocking the cell with Powder Keg sighing, “You’re kiddin’ me right capt’n? You had the keys the whole time? We’ve been in these cells for almost a week.”
Captain Sail opened his cell as he tossed the keys through another cells bars and replied, “It’s been three days and you know it… Sides, ya think I wouldn’t have a backup plan for incase she declined the offer? Though I did intend on freeing only you lot and taking my punishment respectfully, but with the mercy of Lady Mist here, we had a good pony to speak in our defense.”

As the crew started letting themselves out of their cells, Lady mist replied, “You’re not out of the woods yet… so… why didn’t you tell the princess that Iron Hoof was a mare?... and… that you had feeling for her?”
Captain Sail gave Jasmine a skeptic look as he replied, “It wasn’t important, though I have to wonder how it is you came about that information?”
Jasmine smiled as she trotted towards the door, “We in the Cutters have our sources.”
Captain Sail followed with his crew as he replied, “Do ya?... And who might this source be?... Hawk… or Celaeno?”
Jasmine smiled, “The pirate Captain Celaeno has been an ally to the Cutters for many years now. Though she isn’t a Cutter herself. We just trade information from time to time… but when we received a letter that you were on your way to Equestria to turn yourself in, it wasn’t something we could ignore.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aww, ya wanted to help me that badly?”
Jasmine sighed, “Actually it was her request to help you.”
“Oh… ouch…”

Jasmine, Captain Sail and his crew exited the dungeon and trotted down the castle corridor as Jasmine chuckled, “Don’t read into it… fact of the matter is, we were wrong. Not only was Iron Hoof a real pony, but she was the pony you recovered here in Equestria and could have been a dangerous threat. The fact that we didn’t know it, nor believed she was real only proves that Equestria could have fallen victim to an attack by an army of pirates.” She looked down in disappointment, “And… we wouldn’t have seen it till it was too late.”
Captain Sail looked at the shame that was written on Jasmine’s face, then he looked forward and replied without an expression, “No lass… Ya wouldn’t. Ya see, the part of the story I left off, was that Iron Hoof wasn’t the demon of the sea like the stories say. In fact, she and her ancestors before her had a noble cause. They weren’t a threat to anypony, if anything, they were heroes.”
Jasmine looked at Captain Sail and replied, “Really?... how so?”
Captain Sail shook his head as he smiled, “I can’t say lass… as I stated before, it’s a secret. And I for one don’t intend on breaking it.”
Jasmine gave her a skeptic look, “Was it a promise to Iron Hoof?”
Captain Sail hesitated before replying, “I didn’t use that word… but I s’pose it was.”
Seeing his true feelings, Jasmine replied, “I see…”

The large group of ponies trotted through the corridor, as they continued a large bat pony wearing night guard armor stepped into the center of the corridor and stood as if he were guarding the path. As the Crimson Pirates approached the spear wielding stallion looked down at the slightly shorter Captain Sail as the captain looked at the slightly intimidating guard and spoke with an unconcerned tone, “A night guard… seems you’re a little early for work there boyo.”
The large dark bat pony gave Captain Sail an unamused look as he replied, “Captain Crimson Sail?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… What’s it to ya la-”
Before Captain Sail could finish, the large bat pony opened his left wing and flung it under Captain Sail’s hooves tripping him before using his other wing to scoop him up as the large commander tossed the pirate captain over his shoulder, slamming him on the floor on his opposite side. As the stunned captain hit the floor, the Crimson Pirates readied themselves for a fight, but before they could retaliate Lady Mist raised her wing as a signal to stop them as the mare’s warning made the pirates hesitate. With the air knocked out of his lungs, Captain Sail continued laying on the ground as Jasmine spoke, “Oh… Captain Sail? May I introduce the commander of the night shift, Commander Soul… My husband.”

Captain Sail replied from the floor, “Ya… don’t say… I see why ya married him…”
Commander Soul placed the opposite end of his spear on the stunned captain’s throat as he pressed down cutting off Captain Sail’s air as looked at him and spoke, “Be grateful your alive, it would bring my clan honor to end you now and be done with it.”
Ignoring the gasping captain Commander Soul looked at Jasmine and continued, “Are you sure this is a good idea?... he is a pirate.”
Jasmine smiled as she approached the gasping captain and replied, “He may have broken my heart, but the reason he’s back is because he also broke his own… I think he’s suffered enough.”

Commander Soul sighed as he raised his spear from the captain’s throat and replied, “If you think so, then I'll support your decision.” he looked at Captain Sail, “But heed my words Sail… you cross me, the guard, or my wife again, then you will pay for it in blood.”
With that said, Commander Soul stepped over the stunned captain as he continued trotting down the corridor as Captain Sail picked himself up and spoke, “Quite the charmer… ain’t he?...”
Jasmine smiled as she turned to follow her husband, “That’s why I married him… Your crew are free to go, but I'll expect to see you in five days. Till then do whatever you want, you can hire your crew or put together ideas for the company. I don’t care, just be sure by next Monday, you’re in Horseshoe Bay for your first assignment. Or… well… you know, I or my husband will be visiting you.”

With that Jasmine trotted by as she left the group behind as Powder Keg looked at his captain, “Is it me, or did Miss Mist get a much stronger suiter to replace you.”
Captain Sail sighed in irritation, “It’s just you… I think…”
As Captain Sail rubbed his neck in pain, Pinpoint replied, “I may be mistaken… but isn’t he the leader of the bat pony clan in the Equestrian Caverns?...”
Captain Sail revised his earlier answer, “… Maybe she did…”
Pinpoint asked, “So captain, what do we do now?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Your free to do as ya want lads, you’re all pardoned after all. But if you’re lookin’ for work, feel free to meet me in five days, I'll be happy to have ya’ll aboard whatever ship they put me on. Till then I’m going to get some rest… and maybe an aspirin.”
With that, Captain Sail left the crew to do as they want as the group of ex-pirates left the castle and went their separate ways.

Five days later Captain Sail was stepping off a carriage in Horseshoe Bay as he approached the pier where Jasmine was waiting. As the captain approached he spoke, “Lady Mist, it’s a pleasure to see ya outside the shadows.”
Jasmine replied without expression, “You’re late… but luckily we planned ahead. Follow me.”
As the two ponies started entering the harbor, Captain Sail spoke up, “So If I’m takin over this business might I ask our number of ships?”
Jasmine replied, “Three sloops, two brigs, a galley and a caravel… Named the Annabelle.”
Captain Sail was surprised, “The Annabelle?”
Jasmine nodded, “It was the last ship approved by your father to be built here. So when it was launched, we named it to commemorate him.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Very good… so ya mentioned somethin’ bout an assignment last we met? Might I ask what it is?”
Jasmine replied, “Before you take your place as CEO of the Sail Shipwright company, we need you to deliver something for us.”
“Us? Who is us?”
Jasmine smiled, “Just a simple Cutter errand. Nothing dangerous, we just need a specific piece of… cargo delivered to the Hooviet Union.”

Captain Sail replied with suspicion, “The Hooviet Union is quite the distance by sea… almost a month’s travel. Might I ask what you’re sending?”
Jasmine replied, “Just a messenger who decided to threaten the kingdom with a forced trade demand… He’s locked in a crate below deck to remind the new prime minister that Equestria won’t be forced to do anything… ever. As far as feeding him… I'll leave that decision to you, I couldn’t care less.”
Captain Sail gave Jasmine a surprised look, “Um… alright… but a… journey that far will require a ship to hold plenty of supplies. And let’s not forget the dangers of the serpent strait… if a galley is as big as we have then that won’t cut it… unless we have something more in our harbor?”
Jasmine smiled as she stopped and pointed towards a large ship ahead, “Just one…”
Captain Sail looked at the vessel that she was pointing at as he replied, “Ah, a frigate… seems simple enou- wait… is that?”
Captain Sail studied the ship carefully, at first it didn’t seem any different from any other Equestrian ship with its white sails and bright coat of paint, but as he looked closely he recognized it as he spoke, “Is that… the Bloody Tide?”

Jasmine smiled as she replied, “Turns out that the navy are just as superstitious as any other sailors. None of them had the courage to sail on what was once a pirate ship since they all viewed it as a bad omen. So with a little negotiation, I managed to buy it back and have it reinstated. However there is one condition. The sails must stay white, and you are not allowed to ever wave a jolly roger on its mast, whatever that is… Other than that, she’s yours.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Miss Mist… I don’t know what to say?”
Jasmine replied as she started to turn back the other way, “There is nothing to say, just be sure to deliver the cargo on time. We’re your first clients and we don’t like to be disappointed. Your quartermaster has the details… and… God speed Captain Sail.”

With that, Jasmine started trotting away as Captain Sail continued to his ship as he stepped onto the main deck to see Pinpoint and the rest of what used to be the Crimson Pirates standing by. Seeing them put a smile on his face as Pinpoint trotted up, “On your order captain… the ship is ready to depart.”
Powder Keg spoke next, “Darn Equestrian regulations cut down the number of guns we can use, but I did managed to disguise my special shots as cargo, so we can still fight if need be.”
Captain Sail smiled as he stepped up to the helm, “Good so the cargo is loaded then?”
Pinpoint sighed with an uncomfortable tone, “Aye he is… I tell ya, those Cutters are bigger pirates then we are.” 
Placed his hoof on Siren’s dagger that was under his vest as he replied, “Aye they are… but I s’pose it’s good to have them on our side though. If we’re good to make way, then make the call Mr. Point.”

Pinpoint Smiled as he called, “Bring in the gang plank and let loose the sails! Our next stop is the Hooviet Coast!”
With that, the crew rushed to set sail as the refurbished Bloody Tide made its way out of Horseshoe Bay without any problems. Not far outside the bay, Captain Sail stood next to the helmscolt as he spoke, “Steady as she goes lad… this should be a fairly simple voyage.”
Pinpoint approached him, “Strangely it’s not as simple and safe as I thought honest sailing would be.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Now I wouldn’t say that Mr. Point, I think we can find many ways to make this just as honest as a kings standard voyage… we just need to be a little more… dishonest.”
Pinpoint smiled at the play on words as Powder Keg called from the crow’s-nest, “Capt’n! Ship off our port side! She’s approaching fast!”
With that, the group looked at the incoming brigantine as Pinpoint looked at the ship through a spyglass, “He’s right… she’s bearing down on us fast captain… Looks to be flying a roger too.”
Captain Sail took the spyglass, looked at the ship, and replied, “Aye… I ain’t seen that roger before… looks to be a rook.”
Pinpoint asked, “How should we go about this Captain?”
Captain Sail smiled in an evil way as he called, “Mr. Keg!”
Powder Keg looked down, “Aye Capt’n?”
Captain Sail replied, “Show them the color of Blood.”

Fare off on the approaching pirate ship the rookie captain was smiling as he called, “Ready the cannons lads! She’s a big’en waving Equestrian colors! She should be holding a valuable prize.”
The Captain quartermaster called, “Captain! She’s coming about!”
Confused the Captain looked at his prize through the spyglass as he saw the Bloody Tide turn to his direction, “What’s she doing?”
As the Bloody Tide started on its approach the pirate captain noticed that the Equestrian flag was taken down and replaced with a solid red flag. When he saw this the ships quartermaster spoke, “Red… they aren’t taken any prisoners?... What do ya s’pose that’s about? It’s unheard of to see a civilian ship waving a red flag.”

The rookie captain looked towards the Bloody Tide’s helm as he gasped at what he saw, “What?... The Crimson Ghost Hunter?... But I thought he was dead?”
The quartermaster spoke up, “He is… he was executed last week.”
The captain didn’t waste time, “Turn her about and let loose the sails! We can’t handle this one lads!”
The quartermaster argued, “Are you daft capt’n? He’s right there… we can take him if w-”
The captain grabbed his quartermaster by both shoulders as he spoke in anger, “Ya don’t get it do ya?... that pirate killed a ghost and threatened a god… if he is still sailing these waters, then he must have the devils luck. So our only bet is to flee!”

Back on the Bloody Tide, the crew noticed the pirate ship was turning to sail away as Pinpoint spoke, “Looks like your intimidation worked… they’re trying to flee.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good… then ready the cannons and let’s give chase.”
Pinpoint was surprised, “What?... but why? They are running away with their tail between their legs.”
Captain Sail nodded, “I know… now I aim to cut that tail off at the stem… you know that I won’t let any rook threaten me and get away with it.”
Pinpoint replied, “We are going out of our way to do this you know.”
“Aye, and we can make up the time later.”
“The princess ain’t gonna like this.”
“The princess told us that we couldn’t harm innocent ships ever again… this ship ain’t so innocent, and neither am I.”

Pinpoint rubbed his head in irritation as he replied, “Well… I guess I have no choice but to go with this then. After all no prey,”
Captain Sail smiled, “No pay.”
With that Powder Keg came down from the crow’s nest and saw to the loading of what little cannons they had as he spoke up, “Capt’n all guns are loaded and ready.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good… then let’s show these rooks, what a real pirate can do.”




Epilogue
Song of the Siren

34 years later

The dark and dingy dungeon was roaring with mockery as the Storm Guards dragged a zebra down the corridor. As the Guards approached a cell, one of them unlocked the gate as they tossed the exotically accessorized stallion in and locked it behind him. As soon as the cell was shut one of the guards spoke, “Hide it all ya want changeling, you won’t fool us, I don’t know what you’re doing in the Storm Kingdom… but you won’t cause any trouble in here.”
With that, the guards walked away as the disguised zebra picked himself up and sighed, “I knew I should have gone around this kingdom… I don’t know… maybe I read the message wrong.”
A voice replied, “I’d s’pose so… you ain’t much closer to Equestria then last I saw ya.”
Confused, the zebra looked to the corner of the cell to see an elderly pony sitting in the shadow as he spoke, “C-Captain Sail?... is that you?”
The old white bearded pirate smiled, “Aye it is… ain’t seen you in a while… how long has it been lad? Don’t tell me you ain’t made it back to Equestria yet.”

The zebra sighed, “No… I’m still trying to get there… I had to make a detour to Zebrica”
The sailor was surprised, “For four years? Granted ya picked up some fine jewelry since then, but you shouldn’t have spent half a decade on vacation.”
The Zebra looked at the Zebrican accessories that he was wearing then rubbed his head as he replied, “I, guess it really has been about four years? Sorry… it’s just… time for me is… a little strange to keep track of.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Is that so?… I s’pose Zebrica wasn’t kind to ya then… or too kind. I can’t manage to remember time on my best days either.”
The Zebra nodded, “So how long have you been in here?”
Captain Sail replied, “Bout’ a month or so… Got locked up cuz the Storm Prince has a little grudge against pirates since the incident that got his father turned to gravel. Seems a sky pirate I knew was partially to blame, so when he saw I used to be a pirate myself, he locked me up. Took my crew too, ain’t that right lads!?!”

The cell next door replied with depressed tones, “Aye…”
The Zebra nodded, “So Mr. Point’s here too?”
All of a sudden, Captain Sail’s expression became sad as he replied, “Actually… no… ya see…”
The zebra knew what happened as he replied, “Oh… I’m sorry to hear that… when did he pass?”
Captain Sail replied, “Bout three years ago… went in his sleep. The stubborn old fool remained my quartermaster till his dying day.”
The Zebra nodded, “So… how did Daring take it?”
Captain Sail replied, “She took it like I'd expect. That lass is as tough as nails she is. Barely shed a tear during the entire funeral. But enough about that… I'd think that you ain’t planning on stayin’ in here much longer are ya?”

The Zebra shook his head, “No… I got to get back to Equestria.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… back to your lass eh? Guessin’ that’s why you still look like a zebra.”
The zebra nodded, “Yea… Changeling or not… I know where my loyalty lies.”
Captain Sail Smiled as he stood up, “Welp, I’ve been tinkering away at ideas on how to get out of this place so if your willin’ to help, I'll get ya back to Equestria. After all, I still owe you that voyage don’t I? And I’m a stallion of my word.”
Captain Sail held out his hoof to shake the zebra’s as the disguised changeling shook his hoof and smiled, “Then let’s get to it.”

A few days later…

The Winds howled as the raging storm tossed the Bloody Tide up and down on the water as Captain Sail called “Mr. Keg! What’s the status on our pursuers?”
With both officers on the upper deck, Powder Keg looked out passed the stern’s railing as the whipping winds and falling rain completely masked all visibility of the perusing vessels. The only thing visible were the lanterns that were lighting both sides of the bow, the stern, and the base of each mast. However as he saw the lights of the last perusing ship, he could make out their actions as the lights rolled over each other and vanished into the waves indicating the end of their pursuit. Seeing the lights vanish into the waves, Powder Keg called, “Capt’n! The storm seems to have claimed our pursuers! Looks like we managed to escape the Storm Kingdom after all! A fine story to tell the lasses waitin’ for us back at the cove aye?”
Captain Sail called, “We ain’t out of the storm yet Mr Keg.” He looked to the barrel colt, “Jimbo! Get your plot down here and secure your lifeline!” he looked at the rest of the ship, “That goes for the rest of you! Secure all lifelines and bring in the sails!”

The disguised changeling was now wearing a saddlebag under his cloak as he made his way towards Captain Sail and spoke, “Captain! You need me to do anything?”
Captain Sail replied, “You did a fine job getting’ us out of that concrete box! So you can go below and rest! I made a promise to get ya back to your lass, and I aim to keep it!”
At that moment a massive wave hit the ship from the starboard side as the water rushed over the deck causing a number of sailors to fall over and slide against the ships railings. Barely able to keep himself standing the zebra replied, “I appreciate it, but I'd rather help you out here! Just give the order and I'll follow it Captain!”
Smiling at the loyalty of his friend, Captain Sail replied, “Well, if ya have any magical mumbo jumbo that can help us out of the mess we are in, then I’d be much obliged.”

The ship jerked at the impact of another wave as the zebra kept himself from falling over and replied, “I don’t have the ingredients to settle a storm…”
“Storm?... a storm is what we left rioting in that prison back there. This lad, is a hurricane! And a strong one at that.”
“A hurricane?”
“Aye lad, I smelt her miles off. Why do ya think I chose this as the day we busted out?”
The ship rocked again as a massive wave crashed against the other side tossing a few sailors onto the water as Captain Sail called, “COLTS OVERBOARD!!! Mr. Keg! See to your quartermaster duties!”
Powder Keg nodded and started trotting down to the main mast as he called to the crew, “Grab those lifelines and pull them back to the tide! Capt’n ain’t told you to take a break yet so get them back here and back to work!!!”
Seeing the rugged sailors braving the great storm, the zebra spoke, “Actually I think I do know a spell that can help… but I'll need some sea water.”

Captain Sail gave him a dumb look as he replied, “Well help yourself laddie… ain’t like I got none to spare!”
The zebra nodded as he braced himself against a railing to look through his bag of ingredients, “By the way… We need to get to the eye of the hurricane!”
Captain Sail was confused, “The eye?... granted it’s a sunny place to be, but the eye of a hurricane is the most dangerous place when you’re out at sea.”
The Zebra pulled out a jar and scooped up some water from a wave that crashed into the ship and ran across the deck as he replied, “Trust me! I wouldn’t suggest it if it wasn’t crucial.”
Captain Sail saw the determined expression on the disguised face as he sighed, “Fine… but you better not lead us to our doom lad. I ain’t come this fare to die now.”

As the zebra used another empty jar he had to mix the ingredients needed, Captain Sail looked to the main deck to see his crew as they finished recovering the overboard sailors. Then he called, “Quit you’re slouchin’ and open all sails!”
Though many were exhausted and annoyed to be accused of slouching, they still nodded their heads as they went back to work while Powder Keg called, “You heard the capt’n get your sorry jailbird plots back to work!”
As the crew started unfurling the sails, Powder Keg rushed to the main deck, “Sorry to question you captain… but what’s the plan? If we keep the sails open in a storm like this, the wind will tear them to shreds.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye I know, but we need to get to the eye of the storm. Our enchanter friend has a spell that can help.”
Powder Keg looked at the enchanter and nodded, “Do ya now?”
The zebra finished placing all the ingredients in a jar as he closed the lid and started shaking it up, “Well… more or less.”
Both officers spoke, “WHAT!?!”

The now nervous zebra shrugged his shoulders and he replied, “Well… it should work, though I’ve never attempted it before. I'd say… maybe a fifty-fifty… or… thirty-seventy.”
At that moment the sailors trying to unfurl the sails on the first mast lost grip of the leads as the sail fell open causing the wind to catch it with so much force that the mast started cracking as the fore-mast crumbled and fell over the portside of the ship. Seeing this the sailors quickly worked to cut the tied lines so it wouldn’t roll them over as the mast passed by the upper deck of the ship. Knowing that they were now in the thick of it, Captain Sail looked at his missing mast as he looked back at his zebra friend and replied, “I’ll take those odds.”
With that the captain turned the ship into the wind so that it could catch the sails slowly and bring them closer to the eye of the storm. As the Bloody Tide eased closer and closer to the eye, the waves started to get fiercer as the crew tried all they could to keep themselves aboard. Finally as they continued, they could see a light through the darkness of the storm as Captain Sail called, “There she is lad… the eye! Are ya ready for what you need mage?”

The Enchanter looked at the jar of ingredients as it started to glow with the same color as the sun’s light before replying, “Not yet… we need to break through the wall of the eye, we aren’t close enough yet.”
With this, the captain looked forward as he saw a massive wave that towered hundreds of feet high coming right towards them as the size of the wave blocked out what light they could see from the approaching eye. Seeing this, Captain Sail called, “ALL HOOVES BRACE YOURSELVES FOR A CLIMB!!!”
Seeing the incoming wave, the crew immediately grabbed onto masts, railings, and anything they could hold onto as the Bloody Tide hit the wave and began its clime. As the Tide climbed, the ships deck started to rise higher from the front as cargo lines started to break loose causing unsecured cargo to fall passed ship’s Captain and into the sea behind them. Luckily with the wind pushing against the remaining two masts, The Bloody Tide was able to push through the crest of the wave as the crew looked over the other side to see what would make them all nervous. When they reached the top, Captain Sail looked over to see that not only was the wave massive to climb, but on the opposite side it was almost twice its height as the Bloody Tide slowly caressed the top of the wave before tilting forward as Captain Sail called, “EVERYPONY HOLD ON!!!”

Doing as they were told, every sailor on the ship braced themselves as the Bloody Tide started careening down the massive wave as its speed quickly increased causing everypony aboard to feel worried as they all started screaming in fear from their semi freefall from the top of a tsunami. As the ship fell, the winds started increasing more and more as Captain Sail looked to the sails to see that now instead of pushing from behind, the winds were now coming from in front as he could hear stress in the ships masts starting to increase with their speed. As the ship fell with the crew screaming in fear, they all braced themselves as the stem of the Blood Tide crashed into the water of the next wave as hundreds of gallons of water rushed over the deck hitting both the crew and sails as the impact caused the Main mast to snap and crash into the aft mast as both started to give way and lean towards the ship’s captain and helm. Seeing the falling objects, Captain Sail quickly released the helm and jumped out of the way as the aft-mast fell in and crushed the helm snapping it from its base and causing the rudder chain to fall free of its supports. As soon as the mast hit, the sun started shining down onto the Bloody Tide as the zebra spoke, “NOW!!!”

With that, the Zebrican mage threw the shining glass vile against the deck as it shattered and sent the glowing contents to shoot up from the deck as it flew into the sky causing a massive barrier to form behind the Bloody Tide as it spread across the wall of the eye causing all the waters in the sea within the eye immediately settled down as if the storm had completely ceased. With the waters inside the eye calm, Powder Keg helped Captain Sail to his hooves as the old sailor looked around, “What?... what in the leviathans graces did you do?”
With the ship now calm and all the sailors checking themselves for wounds, the Zebra spoke, “That’s a very special spell used for sailing. It makes the sea within the eye of a hurricane as calm as its weather.”
Powder Keg replied, “There ain’t no such thing. The eye is the most dangerous part of a storm. Every sailor knows that.”
The mage pointed behind the Bloody Tide, “See for yourself.”

With that, the entire crew looked behind them as they saw a massive barrier wall behind them and large crashing waves on the opposite side as they colligated with the barrier as if it were a massive sea wall. Seeing this, Powder Keg took back his last statement, “Okay… maybe it does exist.”
Captain Sail looked at the zebra and asked, “So… how long does this spell last.”
The zebra replied, “About twelve hours or so… but… it follows the storm so at the rate it’s moving… we have about thirty minutes before its back on top of us.”
Captain Sail looked at the damaged helm as he replied, “Aye… and without any masts, sails or even a helm… we’re caught dead in the water.”
Powder Keg started to ask, “So… what do we do ca-“
“Captain! Island of the bow!”

At that moment the entire crew looked ahead as they slowly saw an island emerge from the opposite side of the eye as Captain Sail smiled, “Looks like luck is on our side.”
He looked at Powder Keg, “Mr. Keg ready the long boat and load everypony aboard… its time… to abandon the Tide.”
Powder Keg though he heard wrong, “What… abandon th-“
Seeing that they were wasting time, Captain Sail called over the ship, “Ready the long boat and prepare to abandon ship!”
Jim replied with concern, “Abandon the Tide?... But captain w-”
“Now don’t be givin’ me that look. The Bloody Tide has taken us through a lot. And though we have sailed her through all seven circles of hell, we can’t forget that she is over fifty years old… She’s tired… and… I feel it’s time we let her rest. I'll give ya four minutes to get the boat ready. Work smartly and g-”
At that moment, Captain Sail thought he heard a faint but familiar sound from beyond the barrier as he looked at the magical sea wall in confusion. As he looked at the wall, Powder Keg felt concerned, “Capt’n you alright?”
At first he thought he had imagined the sound, but as he heard it a second time Captain Sail knew what it was as he heard the voice sing, “I’ll o wait… for all o’ wa-”
Captain Sail couldn’t believe what he was hearing as Powder Keg spoke up, “Capt’n?”
Snapping out of it, Captain Sail looked at Powder Keg and replied, “Get these sailors on that boat as soon as you can… I… need to retrieve some things first.”

With that, Captain Sail made his way into his cabin as Powder Keg started giving the crew orders to ready the longboat. In his cabin, Captain Sail trotted to an old chest in the corner of the room as he opened it. Inside, Captain Sail pulled a few things that he hadn’t messed with in years, first he pulled out the Crimson Pirates Jolly Roger as he shook off the dust that had settled on the old flag. Then he pulled out Siren’s old dagger as he looked into the blade and smiled at his memories of the old blade. Next Captain Sail pulled out his old cape and hat as he dawned both items then checked himself in a mirror. As he looked at the much older version of his younger self, the old captain smiled, “Sharp as ever Captain… good enough for our reunion.”
With that he sheathed the dagger on his side, threw the Jolly Roger over his shoulder and exited the cabin as he saw the last of his crew climb into the longboat as the boat hung from lines over the water. Seeing his crew ready to depart, Captain Sail approached as Powder Keg smiled, “Seeing ya like that captain… brings back all sorts of memories.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good, then be sure to pass them on…”
Before Powder Keg could reply, Captain Sail looked at his changeling friend as he spoke, “Mr. Zeil?”
The mage replied, “Yes captain?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I'll apologies, I can’t get ya back to Equestria like I said… but at least you’re much closer now then before. When you meet with your lass, be sure to hold her close and never let go. Take it from an old fool, if she is the one… don’t let her slip away.”

Though he was confused Zeil nodded as Powder Keg spoke up, “Capt’n? What did you mean by… pass it on?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Its time I meet with the lass. So… my last order to you… Get this crew to safety.”
Powder Keg was shocked but before he could reply, Captain Sail drew his dagger and swung the blade as it cut the hoists holding the boat up as the long boat fell into the water ten feet below with a splash. As the boat rocked to the impact, Powder Keg called up to the main deck, “Capt’n! Don’t do this please come with u-”
Captain Sail interrupted in anger, “You ain’t captain enough to give me orders Mr. Keg! Now get that boat to that island now or so help me, I'll use these cannons to BLAST YOU ALL TO KINGDOM COME!!!”
Seeing the anger in their captain’s eyes made it clear that this was what he wanted as Powder Keg sighed, “God speed Capt’n.” he looked over the boat, Lets go lads, this storm ain’t gonna wait for us!”
With that the long boat started rowing towards the island as Captain Sail smiled and spoke silently, “Good luck lads… it’s been a pleasure sailin’ with ya…”

Slightly depressed, Captain Sail trotted over to the toppled main mast as he stepped towards the crow’s nest and tied the Crimson Jolly roger to the mast and raised it as high as it could go. Then as he looked at the hanging colors on the now horizontal mast, he smiled as the faint voice echoed from the barrier again, “But my faith still is strong as I burden this weight, So here onto you, I will say I’ll-o-wait.”
Looking at the magical barrier that was now barely six feet from the Bloody Tide, Captain Sail decided to ready himself as he trotted to what was left of his helm as he picked up the disconnected wheel and held it up as if he were still steering his disabled ship. By the time he got it up and into position, the barrier had started crossing the portside of the Bloody Tide as a dipping wave pulled the ship back out of the barrier and into the storm as the Bloody Tide once again found itself being battered from all sides by powerful waves and rain. As the waves rocked the uncontrollable ship, Captain Sail did everything he could to remain standing, even as a few waved hit the ship and rushed over the deck knocking him to the floor. After picking himself up a few times, Captain Sail still held his position as he once again found himself tilting upwards to a massive wave that was towering high over the Bloody Tide.

As Captain Sail looked into the towering wave, he knew that with no control or speed at his side, he wouldn’t be able to crest it as he bravely drew his dagger and glared at the storm in anger, “Go ahead lass! DO YOUR WORST!!!”
As the ship tilted back to the towering wave it wasn’t long before gravity took hold as the Bloody Tide flipped backwards as the massive wave came crashing down on the ship as the force of the impact shattered the keel and caused the ship to collapse in on itself. With the impact tossing him fare form the helm and ship, Captain Sail found himself claiming away into the depths as he opened his eyes slightly to see lumber from the Bloody Tide slowly sinking around him. Feeling too weak to move Captain Sail slowly closed his eyes as he started to hear the beautiful voice sing once again “All-o-wait for all-o-ways, is my sailor at sea? Has he sought out his dream, will he come home to me? They laid me to rest, in a grave on the shore, so I’ll-o-wait for All-o-ways, Forever and more.” 

“All-o-wait for all-o-ways, forever and more.”