Ch1 The Noble Pirate

Prologue
Sail Senior

The wind flapped through the sails as the large brig rocked back and forth on the gentle sea. As it rocked, the ships captain trotted up the steps to the upper deck as he turned to face the bow and spoke, “Steady as she goes helmscolt.”
The sailor on the helm nodded, “aye captain.”
As the captain looked over his ship, the ships Sea Artist trotted up to the top deck as the captain smiled, “Mr. Point? How’s our heading?”
The skilled navigator replied, “Steady and fair captain. On this heading, we should be able to see the port in a few hours.”
The captain smiled, “Good to hear, I was worried I wouldn’t make my son’s ball this evening.”

At the moment the quartermaster stepped onto the upper deck as he heard the comment and replied, “Ah the young Master Sail’s betrothal ball. Might I expect an invitation to such a glamorous event?”
The captain smiled, “you can and will…” He looked over his crew, “And that goes for the lot of you!!!”
With that, the rest of the crew cheered as the captain let them cheer for a few second until the barrel colt in the crow’s nest called, “Captain Sail!!!”
The captain looked to the nest as he replied, “Aye? What is it?”
The pegasus called as he pointed, “Sir! Mast spotted of the starboard stern! Looks to be bearing down on us!”
The three officers looked to the horizon as Captain Sail pulled out a spy glass and looked at the distant ship before turning back and speaking to his navigator, “Mr. Point… how far are we from port?”
The quartermaster took the spyglass and looked at the ship as Mr. Point shook his head, “nearly thirty nautical miles… well outside the royal navy’s routes.”

Captain Sail looked to his quartermaster, “Mr. Quin… what do you make of her… is she who I think she is?”
Mr. Quin nodded, “Aye captain… it’s the Iron Wing.”
“You think we can outrun her?”
The quartermaster shook his head, “the wind is against us… I doubt it… but we can try.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “we have no guns… so for the crew’s sake we better.”
With that the captain turned to look over the lower deck as he call, “All hooves on deck, and to your stations!”
The quartermaster trotted behind him as he also called, “Unveil all sails! Put her along the wind! We need to outrun our guests.”
As the crew scrambled to follow both their captain and quartermaster’s orders, Mr. Point looked at the approaching ship in confusion as he asked, “Captain?... Who is it? Pirates?”

The captain looked at the ship as he replied, “Aye… but not just any pirates. Only one ship in these waters bears that Jolly Roger. Captain Iron Hoof.”
Mr. Point was confused, “Iron hoof? In Equestrian waters? Isn’t he just an old sea tale?”
Captain Sail nodded, “No… he’s as real as you and I. And to make matters worse, He is just as evil as the stories say. No ship caught in his spyglass ever makes port. And as for their crews… well… dead colts tell no tales.”
Mr. Point was concerned, “what should we do?”
Captain Sail sighed, “For a ship like Annabelle who holds no guns… all we can do is run, and hope we get away.”

Under Crimson Sails
Chapter 1
The Noble Pirate

Fare on the edge of Horseshoe Bay, sat a large seaside manor as carriages from all over Equestria arrived for a grand ball being held inside. As the guests arrived, the hostess made her way through the herd greeting everypony by name. As she continued, one of the butlers approached her as he spoke, “Lady Sail, may I present Lord and Lady Mist, and their daughter, Miss Jasmin Mist.”
As soon as she saw them, Lady Sail smiled, “Ah Lord and Lady Mist, I’m so pleased you could make it all the way from Canterlot to attend. How was your trip?”
Lord Mist nodded, “it wasn’t comfortable, but it was nice to see the countryside.” His wife spoke up, “and the sea is just beautiful.”
Lady Sail smiled, “Marvelous, I’m pleased to hear it.”

Lord Mist spoke again, “Will Lord Sail be joining us this evening? It was my understanding that his ship was supposed to dock this afternoon.”
Lady Sail sighed, “Alas he did not. I called the pier earlier but they say that his ship has yet to arrive. Perhaps he was caught up at the last port. Nevertheless, he will be attending next week. I will not allow him to miss his own son’s wedding.”
After that was said, the teenage mare who was with them spoke up, “um… and what of Master Sail? When will he arrive?”
With an annoyed sigh, Lady Sail replied, “He is already here, out on the terrace. Sadly rather than entertaining the guest at his own betrothal ball, he chooses to spend his time fantasizing about grand voyages of adventure on the seas. It was cute when he was a colt, but now, I wish his father would spare him all this sailing nonsense. Then maybe he will consider the future of the Sail Shipwright, and Transit Company.”

Jasmin replied, “Having dream isn’t that bad.”
Lord Mist objected, “Yes, but having a dream and living in reality are two separate issues.”
Although she didn’t like what her father was trying to say, Jasmin held back her objection as she replied, “Nevertheless, I will go speak with him. After all, what’s a betrothal ball if the bride and groom aren’t together?” She looked at Lady Sail, “if you will excuse me.”
Lady Sail smiled, “Of course.”
As Jasmin left the group, Lady Sail smiled as she looked at the teenager’s parents, “For a mare barely passed eighteen, she is quite bold for her age.”
Lady Mist replied, “yes, but boldness isn’t the only quality a mare should have.”
Lady Sail asked, “So, for her anyways, would boldness be a good thing? Considering her future endeavors with… you know who?”
Lord Mist shook his head, “In order for her to take the scythe, she needs to be more then bold. Luckily she still has many year to get ready… all in good time.”

Outside the ballroom on a porch that overlooked the entire bay, a nineteen year old colt stood looking into the sea at a ship that sat anchored in the center of the bay. As the grey colored pony looked out into the bay with his mind wondering, Jasmin trotted up behind him as she spoke, “Is that your father’s boat?”
The young stallion looked back at the mare, “pardon?”
Jasmin trotted up beside him as she pointed out to into the bay, “that boat out there… is that your father’s?”
The Stallion shook his head, “don’t see me rude… but that isn’t a boat. That my dear lass, is a ship. And no, it isn’t my fathers.”
The mare smiled in a sarcastic way as she replied, “Really?... What’s the difference?”

Not realizing that she was joking with him, the stallion sighed, “Ya see the small object floating between the ship and the dock?”
Jasmin looked again and saw a rowboat between the two as the stallion continued, “That, lass is a boat. The diff-”
Before he could explain the difference, Jasmine giggled, “Crimson… I’m only kidding. I know the difference between the two. A boat is just a small object that allows ponies to travel over water but a ship is a majestic vessel used to do the same, only it can travel at much longer distances. Right?”
Crimson replied, “Well… a technical use would object, but I’d agree. A ship is majestic while a boat is just a boat.”
She gave him a cheeky smiled, “So I was right then?”
Crimson smiled, “aye you were.”

Jasmin could only giggle at his reaction, “Aye?... You sound more and more like a sailor every time I see you.”
Crimson gave her an annoyed look, “Is that a problem?...”
Jasmin smiled as she shook her head, “You’re asking if dreaming is a bad thing? To that, I would say no. It’s good to have dreams, we all have them, even me.”
Crimson smiled at her comment for a few seconds then his smile faded as he replied, “and do you dream of… how did your mother put it… protectin’ the kingdom?”
Jasmin’s smile faded, “you mean killing others… no… mother wants me to follow into the family business just like you, but… I don’t know if I’m ready. It’s not at all what I dreamed.”
“And what did ya dream?”
Jasmin blushed as she replied with a quiet tone that was only barely understandable, “to… be a bride…”

All of a sudden, Crimson’s dim grey face started to turn as red as his eyes as he gave her a surprised look, “a… bride?...”
Jasmin smiled as she replied, “yes… and, in less than a week, it will come true.”
Crimson looked back into the bay as he replied, “Yea… right… um… Lass?”
“Jasmin… a groom shouldn’t refer to his bride as if they had just met.”
Crimson nodded, “right… Jasmin… What is your view on this betrothal thing?”
Jasmine didn’t like his tone, “What do you mean?”
Crimson replied, “We’ve been betrothed since you were born. And… I was wondering if, this is what you really wanted. To be… with me of all colts?”

Jasmin smiled as she leaned against him, “Well it was never my choice to marry you… but you know it could be a lot worse, at least I’m marrying somepony who has a sense of adventure. Most mares in my family are paired with little preppy foals who spend their time counting their money and looking down on others. At last I’m with somepony who… isn’t boring, and… who… I’d like to be with.”
Surprised by her answer, Crimson looked at his bride to be as she smiled as she leaned against him and looked out into the sea. Although he was happy about her answer, part of him disagreed with her words exactly which concerned him in an unusual way. But rather then ruin the tenderness of the moment he just felt it was best to keep silent as he put his arm around her and joined her in looking into the ocean.

Down in the bay, as the rowboat reached the dock, one of the ponies on the boat called dockside, “Somepony get a surgeon we rescued a cast away!”
As soon as they heard the call, the ponies on the pier rushed to the boat as they all helped to pull the weak stallion form the boat. As the castaway was pulled onto the dock, he looked at the ponies helping him as he spoke, “a carriage… get me to a carriage.”
The dock worker replied, “don’t worry lad, we’ll be getting’ ya to a hospital soon.”
“No… take me to the Sail manor… I must speak to Lady and Lord Sail.”
The dock worker was confused, “I’m afraid that won’t do ya any good. Captain Sail hasn’t returned from his voyage yet. And tonight they are throwing some swaray that’s invite onl-”

Before he could finish, the dockworker stopped talking as the castaway grabbed him by his color and looked him in the eye, “Listen here boyo, my name is Pinpoint, and I’m the Sea Artist of Captain Nathanial Sail’s ship, The Annabelle. Captain Sail, his crew, and ship, won’t be arriving into port because they met their fate to Captain Iron Hoof of the Iron Pirates! Now either you get me to that manor on the next carriage, or I'll trot there myself after leavin’ you in a worse shape than I… Aye?”
Seeing the tense and angry look in his eye, the dockworker looked to another worker as he spoke, “get the carriage driver here now! We got to get him to the Sail Maner as soon as possible.”

About an hour later back at the manor, the guests’ attention was gained by the hostess as she made an announcement to everypony in the room, “Attention? May I have your attention if you please?” When the ballroom went silent, she continued, “First I would like to thank you all for taking the time out of your schedules to attend this grand betrothal ball. And though she isn’t here with us tonight, I would like to extend my thanks to Princess Celestia who was so gracious as to ask Cloudsdale for a beautiful and clear night for this very occasion. We all know that as Princess of Equestria, she must work day and night to oversee the sun and moon’s movement across the sky, so it is expected that she was too busy to attend tonight. Next I would like to thank our pristine guests of honor, Lord and Lady Mist, and their beautiful daughter Miss Jasmin Mist. Which I’m happy to be saying, will soon be my daughter in-law. And now, I will like to bring both my Son, Crimson Bartholomew Sail, and Young Jasmin Garden Mist to say a few words pertaining to their upcoming wedding.”

With that the entire ballroom cheered as Both Crimson and Jasmine made their way to the center of the ballroom so that all attention could be paid to them as Crimson spoke, “First off I'd like to thank ya’ll for c-”
As soon as she heard his accent, Lady Sail cleared her throat loud enough for him to hear as a reminder to speak properly as he paused cleared his throat and continued, “You all for coming out on this fine Evenin’. Both Miss Mi-”
Once again, he was interrupted by his mother’s noises to stop speaking like a sailor as he gave her an angry look while Jasmine giggled and spoke, “Forgive my fiancé, it would appear that his excitement is leaving him a little chocked up this evening. It would appear that I’m going to have to take over sooner than expected to finish his speech.” A few random chuckles were heard from the guests as Jasmin continued, “As my husband-to-be was saying, we are both delighted that you would meet us here in Horseshoe Bay to attend and provide us with both blessing and luck. And tho-”
Trying to finish, Jasmin paused as a loud commotion could be heard outside the main ballroom doors. Trying to ignore it she hesitated for a brief moment then continued, “Although our wedding is set for the end of the week, we hope you can all attend as we k-”

The commotion was heard again only this time it was louder as voices could be heard from the other side of the door, “But sir, you must have and invitation to-” “Shove your invitation right up your-”
At that moment the double doors flew open as the stumbling Pinpoint stepped into the room and called, “Lady Sail! Master Sail! I must spe-”
Lady Sail interrupted, “What is the meaning of this?”
Crimson spoke next, “Mr. Pinpoint? What ar-”
“The Captain! The Annabelle something’s happened!”
As soon as that was called, the guests started whispering amongst each other as Crimson noticed this and replied, “We will speak of this elsewhere. Mother, Mr. Point. Join me in father’s study.”
As the three made their way through the crowd, Jasmin spoke next, “I’m coming too.”
Crimson stopped her, “no, this is a matter for us to handle. It’d be best if you keep the guests entertained. We’ll only be a tick.”
Seeing the serious expression on his face, Jasmin nodded as she replied, “Alright then… come back soon.”
Crimson smiled as he nodded his head, “Aye, I will.”

With that, Crimson, his mother, and Pinpoint left the ballroom and trotted into the master study as they entered the room, closed the door behind them, then turned to their guest as Crimson spoke, “Here should be fine, now tell us… what happened to father?”
Pinpoint spoke as he sat down, “I’m sorry to inform you sir… but the captain… Captain Nathanial Sail, has gone down with ship.”
Hearing the shocking news, Lady Sail put her hooves over her mouth in shock as Crimson spoke, “What?... Where?... How?”
Pinpoint replied, “A number of miles off the coast. We were on our way back with our shipment, but… We were attacked by a pirate ship.”
“Pirates?...”
“Aye… Captain Iron Hoof, and his ship, the Iron Wing.”

Crimson was still surprised, “Captain Hoof? You mean from the old stories?”
Pinpoint was surprised, “you heard of him?”
Crimson nodded, “aye. Father told me about him when I was little. He says that Captain Iron hoof and his crew have been terrorizing these waters for over three hundred years… but that was supposed to be nothing but ghost stories.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “Sir… that was no ghost. His ship sailed in from behind and gained speed on us as we tried to flee. Before we could get away though, we heard a devilish chiming sound as if she was bashing an iron club against a sheet of clad. Then she fired chain shot that damaged our foremast but destroyed our mainmast leaving us dead in the water. So… knowing our defeat, we happily waved out in surrender… but… he had other plans. As the ship came about, it sailed right up to our starboard bow… chimed a second time before firing a volley from all of her guns at once. Grape, chain, and explosive shot peppered our starboard side as we all did our best to take cover from what had to be at least thirty guns firin’ on us at once. When the first volley ended, I and the captain survived, but Mr. Quil, took a ball to the chest, and… was parted.”

Hearing the event, Lady Mist covered her face as she tried not to imagine the horror as Crimson replied in complete shock, “Celestia’s word…”
Pinpoint sighed as he continued, “After that, the pirates threw out grappling hooks to hook our ship, and pull her close… but I’m afraid that was just a ploy, once the hooks lines were tight, she fired a second volley on us this time tossing me from the deck as I flew over the port side and into the drink. As soon as I hit that cold grave like water, I swam to the surface but when I reached it, our aft must have been torn down from the second volley cuz it fell over the deck of our ship before rolling into the ocean right on top of me. I thought the sail would do me in when it draped over me, but I managed to swim around and over it before one of the shattered booms came down and hit me on my head, knocking me unconscious.”
Amazed at the story Crimson spoke, “how did you survive?”
Pinpoint replied, “I was over the sail, so I just laid on it while unresponsive for a bit of time… but… when I awoke, I awoke just in time to see the last bit of the Annabelle’s bow, before it sank below the tide.”
“And the crew?”

Pinpoint looked at the ground as he shook his head, “There was no crew… No bodies floating amongst the waves, nothing… I can only assume… they were on the ship when it went down. I myself, drifted atop the mizzenmast for a few hours before being picked up by another vessel.”
With no form of optimism in the story, Lady Sail could only broke out in a fit of tears as one of the maids tried to comfort her. Hearing his mother’s cries, Crimson looked at the maid as he spoke, “Take her to her room through the servant’s corridor. Her guests shouldn’t be see her like this.”
The made comforting her nodded, “Yes master.”
As the maid and his mother left the room through a secret doorway, Crimson looked at Pinpoint and spoke, “Mr. Point… did you see what Captain Iron hoof looked like?”
Pinpoint shook his head, “I could see a few ponies on his ship, but I’m afraid I didn’t know which, if any were their captain.”
“Did you at least get a good look at his ship?”
Pinpoint nodded, “aye I did. A good sized frigate or a man-O-war, maybe something in between… sorry, my minds a little fuzzy from the shock it took.”

Crimson stepped forward with hope, “So if you saw it again, say in a port… would you recognize it off the bat?”
Pinpoint nodded with curiosity, “That I would, aye.”
Crimson smiled, “Good… that’s all I need to know.” he turned to his servant, “Jeeves… you keep record of fathers business. How many ships did my father have on contract?”
The butler replied, “I believe he had twelve master.”
“And how many have guns, and are ready to sail?”
The butler didn’t like the question as he replied, “O-one sir… a frigate contracted by her majesty Princess Celestia for the Royal Navy.”
Crimson smiled “perfect…” he turned back to Pinpoint, “Mr. Point? What role did you play on my father’s ship?”
Pinpoint replied, “Well… I was a Sea Artist sir… a um… Navigator of sort.”
Crimson nodded, “okay… were you also the Quartermaster?”
“No sir.”
“Then perhaps First Mate?”
“No sir.”

Crimson thought to himself before replying, “If given the chance… would you be willing to set sail again to find this pirate Iron Hoof?”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… I owe it to your father.”
Crimson smiled, “Good… then welcome aboard. You are now my Quartermaster and Navigator.” He looked back at the butler, “Contact all my father’s employees who have sailing experience and the families of the sailors lost on his ship. Let them know that any who are willin’ to get revenge for the loss of the Annabelle need to go to the dry-docks as soon as possible. I need to round up a crew quickly.”
The butler tried to interject, “Um master, surely you aren’t considering taking the royal frigate from your father’s shipyard?”
Crimson smiled, “Why not? It does belong to me since it’s technically still under my father’s care.”
The Butler replied, “But sir… that’s just it. Since your father only recently passed, it is set that the Sail Shipwright and Transport Company will fall unto your mother until after your wedding. Therefore, you are not authorized to take the ship until the following day, with proper permission from the ships main contractor as well.”

Crimson looked at his butler as he smiled in a sinister way, “then… I’ll just have to take it without permission then. I don’t have time to wait for the wedding, and I know for a fact that the princess won’t give me the chance to take it out, so… I'll just have to… commandeer it.”
The butler was shocked with what he was hearing, “S-steal it? But sir I-”
“Jeeves… you’ve been a fond friend to the family for many generations correct?... So when the family faces an emergency you’re obligated to help right?”
“Of course Master, but I-”
“Then if you don’t agree to help… then perhaps I will find somepony who will… and to do that, I would need to… empty an employment space for that pony to fill… understand?”
Hearing the threat loud and clear, the butler nodded, “Yes master… I understand. I will begin contacting those you requested immediately.”

Crimson smiled, “There’s a good lad… then have them meet me at the docks as soon as possible, we need to prep the ship for sea.”
As the butler turned and left the room, Pinpoint gave Crimson a confused look, “Sir… if w-”
“Captain… that’s what I am so I'd appreciate referring to me as such.”
Pinpoint corrected himself, “Captain… If we take that ship, then we are no better than those pirates… in fact that is exactly what we will be.”
Crimson nodded his head, “if that is what we will be, then that’s what we will call ourselves. Pirates… but we won’t be like Iron Hoof. We will carry on our own way, and if the royal guard tried to stop us… then we will fight back. Either way, I will find Captain Iron Hoof, and I will send he and his crew straight down to Davy Jones’s Locker. Mark my words Mr. Point, he will pay for this someday.”

At that moment, the butler returned as he spoke, “Master, a runner has been sent to deliver your message to all whom you’ve requested.”
Crimson nodded, “thanks you, now I believe the ball is over. Please announce that I and mother have met with terrible news and that we request that everypony leave.”
Then butler nodded his head as he left the room, as he did, Crimson spoke, “Mr. Point lets go, we will better be on our way.”
Back in the ball room, Everypony’s focus was on the butler as he announced what he was told. As he spoke, Crimson and Pinpoint made their way through the room behind the herd as they tried what they could to sneak out of the room unnoticed. However, as they did, Jasmin saw them as she didn’t point them out, but tried to quietly make her way through the herd towards him without drawing attention to herself. But with the herd too crowded for her to move quickly she was unable to keep up as Crimson made it to the main doors and left the room before she was able to get to them.

Trying to keep up with her fiancé Jasmin made it to the ball room doors and rushed down the manor’s corridor as fast as she could. Unfortunately as she reached the doors to the manor, Crimson and Pint point had already entered a carriage and were rolling away from the estate. Disappointed that she missed him, Jasmin watched as the carriage rolled away and vanished into the darkness of the night as she mumbled, “I guess… I'll wait here till you get back then.”
With that, Jasmine stood at the doors to the manor as the guests started exiting the manor and passed by her with no knowledge of Crimson’s departure.

Minutes later at the Sail Shipwright Graving Docks, Crimson and Pinpoint arrived as they entered the facility as a royal guard stopped them, “Halt! This area is restri- oh, Mr. Sail, What brings you out here at this hour?”
Crimson replied, “The ball ended early, so I decided to come out and oversee the status of our most respected customer.”
The guard smiled, “Sure, from what I understand the ship is finished and supposed to be launched in the morning.”
Crimson nodded as he looked at the large wooden vessel as it sat in the center of the dry-dock, “right… well perhaps we should speed up the process.” He looked at Pinpoint, “Mr. Point make sure the lines are tight then fill the dock.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye sir.”

As Pinpoint trotted to the pump house, the guard became concerned while keeping up with Crimson who was trotting down the dock, “Wait… launch now? But the schedule says it will be launched in the morning during the christening.”
Crimson replied and he started casually looking at the ships exterior, “yes… but as the shipwright I think you can take my word that it is fine to launch now.”
“But the christening… it’s an official ceremony that begins the launch. The ship must be christened before launch as all Royal Navy ships are.”
Crimson nodded, “Aye all royal navy ships are… but then again who says this ship is goin’ to the navy?”
The guard gave him a distrusting look, “what are you saying?”

At that moment a large number of stallions trotted onto the dock as Crimson smiled, “ah, perfect timin’.”
As the ponies approached, Crimson stepped passed the guard as one of the stallions spoke, “Mr. Sail?”
Crimson replied, “Captain, now.”
The Stallion nodded, “Aye… Cap’n Sail. My brother sailed with your father… is it true that they were lost at sea?”
Crimson nodded, “It is… but if ya’ll sail with me… we will find the pony responsible… and we will make him pay.”
The pony nodded, “aye… I hope I get that chance.”
Crimson nodded, “You will…” he called out, “as will the lot of ya. Sail under me and your loved ones lost will be payed back in full. WHAT SAY YOU!!!”
With that, the entire crew of ponies cheered “AYE!!!”

As the crew cheered, they were silenced by the sound of a sword being unsheathed as they all looked to the royal guard who was holding his sword at the ready, “What you’re saying is borderline treason! I don’t care who you or your father is, I will not allow you to steal a ship from the royal navy!”
Crimson smiled, “Not very wise, drawing a sword on a ship’s captain in front of his crew. Especially considering the fact that it’s only you, versus all of us.”
Realizing his situation the guard replied nervously, “w-well… I-”
Before he could finish, a loud sound was heard as the doors to the dry-dock opened up leaving water come pouring into the empty dock as it quickly filled the dock causing the ship to slowly lift off the support block as the royal guard turned to the source of the noise in surprise. Using the opportunity, Crimson lunged forward as he grabbed the guard by the collor of his armor and punched him in his face as hard as he could as the stunned guard dropped the sword and fell to the ground.

Before the guard could react to the hit, Crimson picked up his dropped sword as he held it to the guard and spoke, “Calm yourself lad… remember I’m a noble, and this noble has had fencing lessons since he was a wee lad, so don’t think that for a second I will have trouble dealin’ with the likes of you. Now stay down and pay attention. We are takin’ this ship and it will be used by me to hunt down Captain Iron Hoof, so if you have any objections, then feel free to come and fine me”
Crimson lowered the sword as he spoke so his crew could hear, “Bind and gag him, then leave him in the pump house. We have an hour and a half before the change in shift comes around, so it be best if we make ready to sail before then.”

A few sailors trotted to the guard and tied him up as Crimson turned to the rest and spoke, “open the dock storehouse and gather everything we can. Food, munition, supplies, if it can be used, eaten, or sold I want it on board. NOW GET TO IT!!!”
Understanding the call, the crew split up and did everything they were told as half went to make the ship ready to sail while the rest looted the dock’s storehouse and took everything of value, to include everything not owned by the Sail Shipwright Company.

An hour later, Jasmin Mist stood on the terrace of the Sail manor as she watched a ship leave the bay, not knowing that her fiancé was aboard. As she watched, her mother and father approached as her father spoke, “Princess? I understand your waiting for your future husband to return, but perhaps we should return in the morning. I’m sure he will be back by then.”
Jasmin shook her head, “He said he would return… so I will wait for him to return.”
Jasmin’s mother spoke, “But perhaps something came up that would hold him up… it would be bet-”
All of a sudden, Lady Mist stopped speaking as she, her husband and her daughter immediately looked to the closest shadow as Lord Mist spoke, “We know you’re there… come out and speak.”
Knowing he was caught, a young stallion stepped out of the shadows wearing a long black cloak as he lowered the hood and spoke, “forgive me for disturbing you boss… but I believe a matter of great importance had just come up here in Horseshoe Bay.”

Lady Mist stepped forward as she replied, “Really? What is it that you would have to tell me when I deliberately said I was busy tonight?”
Haring the irritation in her voice the stallion replied, “Forgive me… but a vessel was recently stolen from a dock here in the bay by a crew of pirates.”
Lady Mist replied, “Are the pirates wanted?”
The stallion shook his head, “no… I would say not.”
Lady Mist sighed, “Then it’s a matter that doesn’t involve the Cutters. We uphold the Kingdom’s safety from behind the veil of the crown. Matters involving rookie pirates are none of our concern.”
The Stallion replied, “But boss… the ship stolen was a royal warship. A frigate to be more precise. It was docked in the dry-dock of the Sail Shipwright Company.”
Jasmin stepped forward, “Who was the captain of the pirate crew?”
The young stallion replied, “I believe it was… your betrothed. Crimson Bartholomew Sail.”

The three looked at one another as Jasmine looked back into the bay as she sneered at the ship that was leaving port. With the evil glare on her face, Jasmine stayed silent as her father spoke, “With this act of piracy… Crimson will already build up a reputation as a criminal. And now a wanted pirate.”
Lady Mist nodded, “Agreed, and the wedding is officially off.” She looked back at her subornment, “Thank you Fancypants, gather info on his crew but do not peruse him. If he is leaving the kingdom then he is of no threat.”
The young stallion bowed as he put the hood of his cloak over his head and stepped back into the shadows, “Understood boss.”
As the stallion vanished back into the shadows, Lord Mist spoke, “Princess? Are you alright?”
Jasmin didn’t replay, instead she looked away from the ship and paned up to the alicorn imprint that was placed on the moon’s surface as she sighed to calm herself down. Then she turned to her father and smiled with a smiled that was both pleasant, but was easily hiding an intense rage, “of course father… I’m fine… Maybe we should head back to Canterlot while the evening is young.”

With nothing more to say and without letting her father reply, she trotted back into the ballroom and made her way towards the door. However as they trotted through the large empty room, Jasmine saw a large family portrait on the wall over the main doors as she drew a hidden dagger from under her dress and tossed it across the room, hitting and embedding it deep into Crimson’s forehead. Then acting if she did nothing at all, Jasmin continued out of the room as Lord Mist couldn’t help but mumble quietly to himself, “Too bad the wedding is off, a son as bold as him would be something to brag about. Who else would do this to the future Reaper?”

Far out on the mouth of Horseshoe Bay, Crimson looked out the stern of his ship at the bay as Pinpoint approached, “Any regrets captain?”
Crimson looked at Pinpoint as he asked, “Regrets? About what?”
Pinpoint replied, “Well leaven your loved ones for starters. Other than my sister, I ain’t got no family to come back to, so it don’t bother me to leave like this.”
Crimson shook his head, “Nah, Mother may be hurt that father is gone but she don’t need me to make her feel better. If I catch and kill the one responsible I think that will do her just fine.”
Pinpoint gave him an annoyed look, “I was talkin’ about your bride to be.”

Crimson shook his head as he turned to trot away, “nah, she will get over it… She is a strong lass with plenty of charm. She will have no problem findin’ another suitor.”
As Crimson trotted away Pinpoint replied, “But… isn’t she supposed to be part of a secret organization?”
All of a sudden Crimson stopped as he replied without looking back, “’what?...”
Pinpoint replied, “yea, she is the daughter of the Mist family right? Don’t that mean that she is supposed to be part of a group that are known for killing ponies for a living? In fact they are supposed to be so skilled that Lady Mist is actually called The Grim Reaper and will be passing the title onto her daughter in a few years right?”

Realizing his Mistake, Crimson stood there with a nervous expression on his face as he replied, “wh-what?...”
Pinpoint continued, “yea… she is supposed to be like a skilled assassin or somthin’, so… wouldn’t she be a little spiteful for you leaving like this… especially the week of your wedding?”
Crimson stood frozen place as he said the only words that came to mind, “oh… Crap…”
Pinpoint gave him a confused look, “wait… you didn’t even consider it!”
Crimson smiled nervously, “well… I kinda jumped in the moment….”
Pinpoint Sighed, “I guess this means we ain’t commin’ back to Equestria any time soon are we captain?”
Crimson shook his head as he trotted to the helm, “nope we certainly won’t.”

Pinpoint sighed as he trotted up and stood beside Crimson as the captain took the helm, then the navigator replied, “Well, good thing my only family is my sister. Otherwise I would feel a little stern over what we found ourselves into. So, where about should we set a course? Judgin’ by our loot, we have plenty of supplies to take us all the way across the world if need be.”
Crimson replied with a tone that says he had everything planned out, “First thing is first, we need to change the way the ship looks. All this gold coloring is too conspicuous for my taste. I’m thinking a dark finish, and the sails, black, NO… Crimson. The color that will let everypony know who’s captaining this ship.”
Pinpoint smiled at the idea, “Sound good captain, we will also need a Jolly Roger. Even a pirate ship must fly its own colors.”

Crimson nodded as he looked to the mainmast as he imagined the flag flying over it, “aye, and a mighty flag it will be.”
The Pinpoint spoke up, “Well as all pirate ships need, we need a jolly roger, a powerful vessel, a fearless captain, and finally a Name for the ship. Something that can drive fear into those who hear it.”
Crimson thought to himself for a few seconds as he replied, “Well the sails are going to be Crimson… so how about we name her The Bloody Tide.”
Pinpoint gave him a curious look, “really? Why do ya say that captain?”
Crimson replied, “Well our sails will be as red as blood, and The Tide will be her nickname. Cuz when she rolls in, very few ships roll out.”

Pinpoint gave his captain a hopeless look, “By the sound of it, you’ve had this name in mind for fare longer than just today.”
Crimson rubbed his head in embarrassment, “well, I’ve always imagined sailing away ever since I was just a wee lad. So ship names have always been somethin’ of a preparation in case I did.”
Pinpoint thought to himself, “hmm, The Bloody Tide egh… Not the worst name I’ve heard, so I'd say it’s something that won’t be hard getting used to.”
Crimson smiled, “oh good… cuz if ya didn’t like that, The Plot Kicker was my second choice.”
Pinpoint replied with an unamused look, “Yea… let’s take that name, bury it under the sea, and never speak of it again.”

Crimson smiled as he griped the helm and looked out into the sea, “agreed… so what’s our heading sea artist?”
Pinpoint looked into the sea as he replied, “Our heading should be northwest. With the wind at our stern we should make port in about three days. What are our plans once we make port captain?”
Crimson nodded, “First we sell all the unneeded loot in our cargo bay. Then we need to round up some munitions and other supplies, before refinishin’ the ship. Once all that’s done, we will start there and make our way to every port from here to Atlantis. We need to round up every lead that will tell us where to find Iron Hoof. That includes hittin’ up the pirate bays as well. Father has had quite a few sailors under him. No doubt we may happen across a few who are livin’ as pirates now. Either way, we will hunt down Iron hoof, and take down anypony and-or ship that stands in our way.”

Ch2 Crimson Sails

View Online

20 Years Later

“Mast on the Horizon!”
After hearing the call from the pony in the crow’s-nest, the ships quartermaster pulled out a spyglass as he looked at the approaching ship. As he observed the vessel, the ship’s captain approached, “Mr. Tan? What is it?”
The quartermaster replied with an uneasy reply, “She isn’t flying any colors captain? And her sails are red… I would guess them to be pirates, but I don’t recognize her just yet. As the quartermaster passed the spyglass to the captain, the captain took one look at the vessel as he replied, “Those sails aren’t red… they’re crimson… That ship belongs to Captain Crimson Sail.”
The quartermaster was nervous, “You mean… the Bloody Tide?”
The captain nodded, “Aye… that’s the one. What they are doing out here, I haven’t the slightest.”

Far off on the Bloody Tide, Captain Sail stood next to the helm on the upper deck as a pony called from the crow’s-nest, “Capt’n! Ship off the bow! She’s flying Guppy colors sir! Must be the ship we’ve been looking for!”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… The Float’N Guppy, of the Guppy Trading Company.” He looked over his crew on the lower deck, “All Loose!!! Catch the wind and chase her down!”
The crew replied with a cheer as they all hurried to release all sails as Captain Sail looked back to the crow’s-nest, “Mr. Keg! Strike the colors and get your plot down here! We need our master gunner at the ready!”
The pony in the nest smiled, “Aye Capt’n, Right away!”
With that, the sailor raised the flag of the Crimson Pirates and hoisted it to the top of the mast.

As soon as the black flag reached the top of the mast, the wind opened it straight out as the black flag revealed two sabers stretching out a crimson sail with a skull on the middle. A unique pirate flag, but an unmistakable one. Shortly after the flag was raised, the quartermaster on the traders ship spoke, “Captain… her colors are up. She is a pirate ship!”
The ship’s captain nodded, “Don’t think me a fool! Everypony knows that the only pirate bearing crimson sails is the very pony himself! Now leave them be and help the crew.”
With that the captain looked over his ship as he called, “ALL HOOVES ON DECK!!! Bring in the sails and prepare to be boarded!”
Thinking he heard wrong the quartermaster grabbed the captain’s shoulder and turned him toward him, “Captain Arthur? What are you doing?”

Captain Arthur replied, “Captain Sail is known for being a merciful pirate. According to rumors, he never attacks ships that ain’t flying navy colors, or unless he is looking for them specifically. If we aren’t his target and we show no signs of hostility, he will sail right by us and leave us be. But if we are, the best thing to do is surrender and he will be merciful once he gets what he wants.”
The quarter master asked, “And what does he want?”
The captain shook his head, “That I haven’t the slightest, but if we have it we will kindly hand it over and be done with it.”
With that the captain turned back to his crew as the quartermaster drew his sword and placed it against the side of the captain’s neck, “I can’t take the risk captain.”

Without expecting it, the captain slowly turned his head to the quartermaster, “What are you doing? Are you daft?”
The quartermaster replied, “I won’t let you surrender our lives to pirates so easily captain. So if you won’t do anything… I will.”
Seeing that the surrounding crew was in agreement with the quartermaster, Captain Arthur gave the second a dull look, “So what do you intend to do Mr. Tan… Fight back with a cannon-less ship? You wouldn’t last two second against her.”
The quartermaster pulled the captain’s sword from his side and handed it to another sailor as he replied, “We cannot fight back, but we can flee. So that’s what we will do.”

The ex-captain chuckled, “Bah! Nopony can outrun The Tide! Her cannon can fire as straight as the horizon, and they never miss. If you continue, then the last time you see their ship, it will be above you as you sink to the depths.”
Mr. Tan shook his head, “No… I won’t.” He looked around, “Open all sails! Let’s leave these cutthroats in our wake!”
With that order, a few sailors restrained the ship’s ex-captain as the rest opened the ships sails as the vessel caught the wind and started away from the approaching pirates.”

Seeing their prize fleeing, Captain Sail sighed in disappointment as Pinpoint spoke, “Looks as if the fear got the best of them, ay captain?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… and so it may be the death of them.”
Captain Sail looked to the pony in the crow’s-nest as he climbed down from the top of the mast, “Mr. Keg!”
Powder Keg turned to the stallion and smiled, “Aye Capt’n?”
Captain Sail replied, “The prize seems to be fleein’ so what would my Master Gunner and sniper suggest?”

Powder Keg looked at the fleeing ship as he looked back to his captain and replied, “Load the chase guns, chain volley across her deck and clip her sails?”
Captain Sail replied with a nod, “Good lad… make it so.”
Powder Keg smiled sinisterly as he replied, “Aye aye Capt’n!” He turned to the bow of the ship, “All hooves to guns!!! Load the chase guns and ready chain shot! Fire across her deck colts, we want this prize intact! No need to feed the reef with her lumber.”
Down below the sound of shuffling hooves could be herd as the ponies in the galley below quickly loaded the cannons, and exposed them out the chase gun ports as all four bow cannons aimed directly ahead of them, pointed towards the fleeing ship.

As soon as the cannon were ready, Powder Keg looked to his captain as he spoke, “On your order Capt’n!”
From the upper deck, Captain Sail looked over his ship at the fleeing vessel in front as he smiled, “Fire!”
Relaying his orders, Powder Keg looked to the bow and yelled, “FIRE!!!”
With that order the large vessel jerked back twice as the four cannons fired in synchronized volleys. First the two cannons in the center of the bow, then the two on the far sides, as their recoil pulled the cannons’ bores back into the ship and jerked against the support ropes.

Back on the fleeing ship, the mutinous captain saw the flash from the pirate’s cannons as he called, “INCOMING FIRE!!! HIT THE DECK!!!”
Hearing the warning, most of the ship’s crew laid down on the deck of the ship as the spinning chain shot flew over the top of the upper deck, hitting and killing the ships helm colt as it took the helm right off the deck before causing severe damage to the ships mast. As soon as that was seen, the new captain of the fleeing vessel picked himself back up as he looked at the missing helm which still had the blood of the helmscolt on it as the old captain spoke, “Ya see! I told you there was no escaping him. Now wise up and surrender now before you doom us all!”
Seeing no alternative to the situation, the new captain sighed, “All hooves bring in the sails! And lower the colors to signal the surrender! This is one fight we can’t win.”

Back on the Bloody Tide, Powder Keg looked at his captain as he asked, “Should we ready another volley capt’n?”
Captain Sail looked to the merchant ship, but before he could say yes, he started to see the small vessel quickly tying up its sails as their flag was lowered leaving nothing but the damaged sailed on the ships mast. Seeing this Captain Sail smiled, “Belay that… they aren’t gonna pull anymore tricks on this day. But to be safe, load two of the upper deck guns on the port side. We will pull to her starboard and if she tries any funny business, we will be ready.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye capt’n, what type of shot should we load?”

Captain Sail started trotting down from the upper deck as he replied, “Better make it solid. We will be aboard her so better to avoid harmin’ our own.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye, no grape, no chain, and no explosive got it.”
As Powder Keg relayed his orders to the gun crew, Pinpoint spoke to Captain Sail as he asked, “Do ya think we will be needing it captain? We already took the ship.”
Captain Sail adjusted his black tricorn hat as he replied, “Any sailor worth their weight in coin knows to stand down against me to keep his hide safe. So if this captain is brave enough to flee… then I'd like to know what he was thinking before trying to cross me.”

Pinpoint asked, “Do you plan on killing him?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Only if I see it nessisary.”
Though his expression said he didn’t approve, Pinpoint didn’t say anything as he watched Captain Sail give his orders, “Get out the hooks and reel them in!”
With that order, the ponies on deck rushed to the left side of the ships as they each threw out a grappling hook as they hooked the rail of the surrendering ship and pulled them in to tie the two ships together. As the two ships met, the crew started tying them to one another as Captain Sail and a few of his pirates stepped onto the captive ship as he called, “All hooves get in ranks!!! Don’t make me say it twice!”

Worried for their lives, the crew of the merchant ship with their captain included, wasted no time in quickly lining up on the deck as they sat down showing that they would show no hostility. After the crew was in ranks, Captain Sail and a small number of his pirates slowly made their way down the ranks looking at the defeated and worried expressions on each sailors face. As he did that, the rest of his crew wasted no time in boarding and searching the merchant ship for valuables as Captain Sail spoke, “Afternoon gents, now I don’t figure ya know who I am, seein’ that you decided to run from me and all, but would any of ya take a fancy in makin’ a guess?”

As he trotted along the ranks, Captain Sail’s eyes narrowed on a random sailor as he spoke softly, “How bout you sailor… any hint or clues as to who I be?”
Nervous, the sailor avoided eye contact as he replied, “Are… are you… C-Captain Sail… of the Bloody Tide?”
Captain Sail smiled, “So… ya do know who I am…” He looked over the crew and spoke, “So I'd be right in guessing that the rest of you lubbers know the same don’t ya?”

Averting their eyes the captured crew remained silent as Captain Sail continued, “Then why, pray tell, did you try to flee? If ya know who I was then you know that by runnin from me you’re only making things worse for yourselves… so why risk it?”
The crew remained silent as he nodded, “Well then… perhaps I should be askin your captain this question. Well then where is he? Bring him forward!”
Still nervous, nopony amongst the captured crew said anything as Captain Sail looked back at the sailor sitting next to him as he spoke to him as softly as before, “Well sailor?... where is he?... Who do you sail under?... who on this sorry hunk of wood, do you call… Capt’n?”

The sailor didn’t reply, instead he only hesitated slightly as he slowly turned his head and looked at two ponies. First Captain Arthur, then the mutinous quartermaster that sat beside him as they both sat silently amongst the captive crew. Seeing the nervous sailor actions Captain Sail looked at the two ponies he looked at as he smiled, “Much obliged.”
With that Captain Sail trotted down the line of sailor till he approached both suspected captains as he stood in front of them and spoke, “So… which one of you is captain? Speak up, make yourself known.”
The ships original captain looked up as he replied, “That’s a good question captain, let’s see.” He turned to the ships traitor as he replied, “So… Mr. Tan? Who is the ship’s captain?”
The mutinous sailor replied with an angry but nervous tone, “You are… captain.”

Captain Sail gave the two a funny look as the ships true captain replied, “Captain Sail… May I address you properly?”
Captain Sail took a step back and replied, “If you’re the captain, then it be your right! Stand and address me!”
Captain Arthur stood up as he replied with a proper stance, “I apologies for how we greeted you Captain Sail, but I’m afraid my ex-quartermaster took it upon himself to commandeer my command as soon as we spotted your colors.”
Captain Sail gave the traitorous sailor an unamused glance as he replied, “Really now?... I see.”
Nervous the sailor lowered his head in shame as the original captain replied, “Aye, it was my decision to stand down, but I’m af-”

Captain Sail raised his hoof to silence him as he replied, “Nuff said… so it was your incompetence as a captain that caused this whole mess is it?”
The captain felt nervous as he replied, “I… I suppose so…”
Captain Sail smiled sinisterly as he replied, “Fine… I s’pose I shall do your work then. One moment.”
With that Captain Sail turned away from the confused captain as he spoke to the traitorous sailor, “You… Mr. Tan was it?”
The nervous sailor replied, “A-aye sir…”
“Stand… Address me properly quartermaster.”

Still nervous, Mr. Tan stood up as Captain Sail looked back onto his ship as his called, “Mr. Keg!”
Powder Keg replied from the deck of the Bloody Tide, “Aye Sir!”
“Front and center lad!”
Powder Keg rushed to the other ship as he approached Captain Sail and replied, “Aye Capt’n?”
Captain Sail whispered to him, “What cannon on the top deck are loaded?”
Powder Keg replied quietly back, “Three and six Capt’n… why?”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “I got some fodder for six… if you make it ready.”
Knowing what he meant, Powder Keg smiled as he replied loud enough to be heard, “Aye then… white or red?”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied also loud enough to hear, “Better make it red… an occasion such as this is better due for red wine.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye, aye, Capt’n.”

With that Powder Keg rushed back to their ship and returned with a bottle of wine as Captain Sail looked to another member of the crew, “Ready a table for a new recruit. There.”
With that, Captain Sail pointed at a place in the middle of the merchant ship as the rest of the crew cleared away the sitting sailors on the spot and placed a barrel with two stools on opposite sides. As soon as the area was clear, Captain Sail trotted to the barrel and sat the wine bottle on top before pointing to a stool and speaking, “Mr. Tan… I have a proposition for ya. Please take a seat, and join me for a drink.”
Completely confused, The traitorous sailor slowly trotted to the stool and sat down as Captain Sail Sat down in the stool on the other side of the barrel as he poured them both a glass and spoke, “Now then, from my understandin’, you held a mutiny while under the stress of bein’ chased by pirates. Now that takes some fine leadership and some real solid shot. So, what were you thinkin’ while doing it lad?”

Although he felt at ease enough to reply, Mr. Tan didn’t drop his guard as he spoke, “I… um… I felt… worried. In all honesty sir, I didn’t know how it would progress.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nah… you knew exactly how it would progress. In fact ya knew it so well, that ya used the fear of the rest of your fellow sailors to ensure that this mutiny would go unopposed. Now it’s actions like that, that ensure the path of a pirate… so I ask ya… how would ya like to join the Crimson Pirates?”
As the question was asked, Mr. Tan was drinking the wine as the unexpected question caused him to cough in surprise as he wiped the wine from his face, “W-What?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I asked if you would join my crew? A bold sailor like yourself who can use the fear of his fellow crew mates, now that be the mark of a true pirate, so what do ya say?”

After confirming what he thought he heard, Mr. Tan replied, “Well… I-I guess I can. If you will have me.”
Captain Sail smiled as he raised his glass, “Well then, welcome to the crew laddie. But before we accept you, I wanted to know if you have ever been to the far lands over in the north Atlantian Sea?”
Mr. Tan shook his head as he replied, “The Far Lands… I’m afraid I haven’t sir.”
Captain Sail took his tricorn hat off his head and tried to shape the brim as he replied, “Well… There in the Far Lands, there is a pagan religion that speaks of traitors and mutineers. It says that when those of sin die, they go to a dark depth of a world set ablaze by the sins of those who pass. And in this world, there are nine circles, each one more horrifying then the last.”
Hearing a bit of darkness in his voice made Mr. Tan feel nervous as he replied, “Do they… and… what of this religion speaks of Traitors and mutineers?”

Captain Sail continued bending the trim of his hat as he replied, “They say, that in this hell, the deepest and darkest ring of this fiery realm, is meant for traitors and mutineers. Meanin one simple thing.”
Mr. Tan replied as Captain Sail sat his hat on the barrel and took a sip of his wine, “And that is?”
Captain Sail finished drinking from his wine as he sat the glass down and gave the sailor a look of unamused evil, “You won’t be seein’ me, when I arrive lad.”
With that Captain Sail grabbed his hat and spoke loud enough for others to hear, “Fire in the hole!”
Quickly realizing the order, the traitorous sailor looked towards Captain Sail’s ship as he noticed that Powder Keg was standing behind a cannon that was aiming directly at him from less than twenty feet away. Knowing what was coming next, Captain Sail raised his hat to shield his face, as the cannon went off hitting its target and scattering a splatter of blood onto Captain Sail’s hat, the barrel, the wine bottle and across the deck of the ship as the target took the full power of the solid cannon ball before being tossed through the railing on the opposite side of the ship as he fell onto the sea leaving only the pieces of the shattered stool floating on its surface.

After the cannon went off and echoed into the distance, not a sound was heard as the crew of the merchant ship sat speechless at what they had just witnessed. With the ship silent as a mouse, Captain Sail took a cloth from his pocket and wiped the large amount of blood from his hat as he placed it back on top of his head and spoke with an angry expression, “In my crew, if you are or were ever a mutineer… you become cannon fodder.”
Captain sail stood up and looked at all the ponies staring at him as he called, “Let that be a lesson to the lot of ya! Nopony who dares call them-self a sailor will ever betray the loyalty of his captain. Unless ya be willin to explore the horizon of a cannonball.”
With that Captain Sail trotted back to the ships original captain as his sailors worked to clean up the barrel, wine and blood left from the unexpected execution. As he approached Captain Arthur, Captain Sail spoke casually, “Graces of apologies captain, I left your deck in such a mess. But I'll have ya know, I don’t look kindly on mutineers.”
A little nervous, the captain replied, “A-Aye… I can see that… but… did he really deserve a fate such as that?”

Captain Sail replied with a sinister smiled, “What would have become of him if I had left him be?... He would be locked in the brig, then faced a trial for treason for which he would hang anyways right? Well consider this a more merciful way of doin things. Better my mercy than having him dancin’ the hempen jig, aye?”
Feeling like he was being threatened, the captain replied nervously, “A-aye captain… I certainly see your point.”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied with a more upbeat tone, “Glad to hear it, now we can get down to the real reason I’m here. I didn’t search for your ship to do away with a mutineer after all.”
“Real reason?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye, the reason I sought you out, is cuz I found out that you recently employed a colt from the Griffin Port that you departed a few days ago. I wish to speak with this colt.”

The Captain looked over his crew as he replied, “I’m sorry captain, but I’ve employed many sailors at that port… could you be more specific?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… this particular colt is a survivor of an attack by a notorious pirate… Known as Captain Iron Hoof.”
As soon as he heard the name, the captain knew who he was talking about as he looked passed Captain Sail at the sailor who was still sitting in rank amongst the rest as Captain Sail added, “Do you know the sailor I’m talking about… or should I seek him out meself?”

As Captain Sail waited for an answer, the nervous captain looked over at the mess left from the pirate’s lass discussion as he looked back at Captain Sail and replied with an order, “Mr. Kail!... Make yourself apparent and step forward!”
As soon as the order was givin, the nervous sailor, stood up as he nervously trotted to his captain and spoke, “A-aye Capt’n?”
Captain Sail looked at the sailor and replied, “You’re Mr. Kail?”
The sailor nodded nervously, “Aye sir… I am.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Good, then might I request we have a discussion alone? This is a matter that shouldn’t pertain to your current captain or crewmates.”

Concerned, the sailor looked at his captain as his officer nodded, “It’s alright lad, better to do as he asks. Best not to agitate him further.”
Captain Sail smiled in a welcoming manner, “If you’re concerned with your life, don’t be. I have no reason to be killing ya. So best just answer my questions and I will be off on my merry way.”
The sailor was still nervous but nodded in a trusting way, “Aye captain. Then ask away.”
Captain Sail looked at Captain Arthur and asked, “Since he is your sailor, might we use your cabin captain?”
Trying to stay on the pirate’s good side, Captain Arthur nodded, “If you mean him no harm, I don’t see why not.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, many thanks.” He looked at Mr. Kail, “Let’s be off.”

The captain and his suspected captive trotted across the deck towards the captain’s cabin as Captain Sail could see Pinpoint on the upper deck of the Crimson tide watching with disapproving eyes as Captain Sail ignored the glare and entered the cabin with his witness. As soon as he entered the cabin, Captain Sail locked the door as he and the guest sat at the table. As soon as they sat down, Captain Sail spoke, “So, it be my understandin that you had an unexpected crossing with a ghost of the sea… and as a sailor who enjoys an occasional ghost story, I’d be honored if you could entertain me with a tale of your own… So tell me… Was it you, who had crossed paths with Captain Iron Hoof of the Iron Wing and lived?”
The sailor replied, “It was… about three months ago. I was working on a fishing boat outside of the Hooviet Union. Normal day, normal catch… nothing different than usual. But then as the sun went down, we started gatherin our catch and began sailing back to port… but then?”

Captain Sail finished the statement, “A dark vessel with sails as dark as leather appeared form behind along the surf.”
The sailor gave him a confused look as he explained, “I’ve heard this part before, she climbs from the stern like a corrupt shadow, then chases down her prey like a feral griffin. Then, she echoes out a chime as if she were ringing the dinner bell for the sea to claim the lives of her sacrificial prey before reducing their ships to timber, and leaves nearly a soul to tell the tale. But what interests me… is what happened after she destroyed your ship and crew… I hear tell that you were pulled aboard and held prisoner, a first for all the stories of that ship and her crew. So, discern that bit of information if you will.”

The sailor decided to skip to that part as he continued, “Well… after our ship went down, I managed to swim to the surface, but… I wasn’t there long before her ship began using the rest of us as target practice.”
Captain Sail was confused, “Target practice… cannon?”
The sailor shook his head, “No… those hoof cannons. You know, the illegal ones.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Muskets…”
With the expression on Captain Sail’s face that says he knew something the sailor asked, “What is it?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nothing… it just narrows my search a bit… what happened next?”

The sailor continued, “Well… to avoid getting shot I tried to dive underwater… but while I was under, I didn’t
realize that the ship was coming right for me. I tried to evade its path, but as it crossed over, I got my hind hoof caught in what I thought to be some kind of net, but I found out that it was a rope from a pony they were keelhauling.”
“Keelhaul?...”
The sailor nodded, “Yes it’s when they tie a pony up and round them under the keel with a ro-”
“I know what keelhauling is lad… I just find it funny that they were doing it while attacking your ship.”
The sailor nodded, “Aye, and with their prisoner being dragged under, I was pulled with them until they finally fished and pulled us both out on the other side. When they saw me they were going to shoot me, but their captain said that it would be a waste of a bullet.”

Captain Sail immediately became interested, “Captain? You mean to say you saw Captain Iron Hoof? Well?... out with it Lad! Tell me what he looked like?”
The sailor nodded, “Well… he was pitch black, like a sunless sky, and his mane was white as a ghost. A tall earth pony with a rather unsunny disposition. Yellow eyes, and a scar along the left side of his face… actually that scar looked fresh, as if the stitching had just been removed.”
Captain Sail nodded as he pulled out a quill and paper and jotted down the info, “Good lad, anything else? Perhaps info on where they made port?”

The sailor shook his head, “Sorry captain, but they didn’t go to any port while I was aboard. All they did was imprisoned me and their captive for a few days before dropping us on a deserted island.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, and what of their captive? Any reckoning of why he was a captive or where he may be?”
The sailor shook his head, “Nothing of the sort, She didn’t say a single word at all I actual thought she was mute at first.”
Captain Sail was now interested, “She?...”
“Aye… their captive was a mare… and a beautiful one at that. I don’t know who she was, but the sailors on Iron Hoof’s ship called her Siren.”
“Siren?”

The sailor nodded, “Aye, and she had the look of one too. Gorgeous she was. Fawn coat, with an azure mane. Blue eyes as clear as the very sea… the kind of maiden you could only find in your dreams.”
Captain Sail gave the sailor a serious but clueless look, “Fawn… Azure...”
The sailor felt a little embarrassed as he explained, “Oh sorry captain… it’s like a light tan coat with a very pale sky blue mane braided and draped over her shoulder. But with those eyes… Now that’s what trapped ya, like a snare lace with the prettiest sapphire you ever could see.”
As the sailor described her, he started to blush as Captain Sail nodded, “Alright, noted… now how about what happened next… why didn’t they kill either of ya?”

The sailor continued, “I don’t know… rather than killing us, they decided to give me a dagger and drop us on a sand bar. Said that if I let her, she would take the first opportunity she could to kill me, so they suggested I did it first.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And did you?”
The sailor shook his head, “If you were in the presence of an angel… would you?”
“Alright, alright she was pretty… I get it…”
The sailor nodded, “Well even if I wanted to, I couldn’t bring myself to harm such a beauty. But that didn’t stop me from watching her closely. Five days we sat on that deserted pile of sand and in all that time… she didn’t say a word. She didn’t even acknowledge me… all she did was stare into the horizon that the pirates sailed off into with a glare that could kill.”
Captain Sail was skeptic, “So… in the entire time you two were together… she never muttered a single word?”

The sailor shook his head, “No… I tried a number of times to talk with her, but every time she only glanced at me with a look of distrust and then back onto the horizon. As if she had a serious bone to pick with the Iron Hoof Pirates.”
“Aye… and what happened next?”
He continued “After five days, we were saved by a passing ship that was searching for my old shipmates, but when they found us, they knew what became of the rest of my fellow crew. The rescue vessel asked if there was a place we wanted to be dropped so I told them I wanted to go to the Griffin Kingdoms. There I offered to become a merchant and here I am.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And the lass?”

The Sailor replied, “She spoke for the first time… but it didn’t seem to make any sense. She asked to go to Pirate Cove… but there ain’t no telling where they took her.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Then that’s where I'll find her.”
“What? But… Pirate cove is nothing more than a ploy to lure navy to the sea isn’t it?... Surely it ain’t real.”
Captain Sail smiled, “It’s as real as you and I. But only a skilled pirate worth his fixin’s can ever step hoof there. Otherwise you better be sailing under one or else they will eat you up like a dragon on a rhinestone.”
With that Captain Sail stood up as he replied, “Thank you lad… I believe I have all I need from you now.”

Feeling a little nervous, the sailor asked, “Are… are you going to kill me now?”
Captain Sail shook his head as he put on his hat, “As I said before, there ain’t no reason to be killin ya lad. I ask ya a question and you answered it. For that, I'll drop you with your captain and leave you be.”
The sailor wasn’t trusting, “But… what about the rest of our crew?”
Captain Sail smiled, “They will be safe… however, for attempt in to flee we will empty your coffers and supplies. All but what you need to make it to the next port. But be grateful lad… Captain Sail isn’t always this merciful.”
With that Captain Sail trotted to the cabin doors and waited as the nervous sailor exited the cabin and trotted out onto the deck of the Float’N Guppy.

As soon as the two were outside, Captain Sail looked to his Quartermaster on the top deck of the Bloody Tide as he called, “Mr. Point? How goes the prize?”
Pinpoint replied, “The supplies are clamed and we left enough for them to return to port. Did you claim your prize as well Captain?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye I did. Now let’s prepare to make way!”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye Captain.” He looked over the ship, “All hooves on deck! Prepare to make way!”
The pirate crew cheered as the pirates on the merchant ship quickly rushed back aboard the Bloody tide as the Captain Sail left the sailor and his caption alone as he trotted to the ships railing and stepped back onto the Bloody tide.

As soon as they were ready, the pirates unhooked all the grappling hooks as Captain Sail pushed the Bloody Tide away from the merchant ship as he called, “Thank you lads! You’ve been the finest of hosts but I’m afraid it’s time we part ways here! Remember my lesson, and perhaps it can save you in the future.”
With that Captain Sail stepped down from the railings as he trotted to the top deck of his ship and stood next to Pinpoint. As he stood there he could tell that Pinpoint was giving him a disappointed yet careless glance as Captain Sail spoke without looking back, “What is it Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint looked back across the top deck of the ship as he replied with sarcasm, “I can’t say captain… it’s not my place.”

Captain Sail looked at him and replied, “Then you have permission… say what’s on your mind.”
Pinpoint replied with a careless tone, “What would your father say if he were here?… about how you quote… Punished that mutineer a few moments ago.”
Captain Sail replied also with a careless tone, “If my father were here, then I wouldn’t be… so if anything, you should blame Iron Hoof. Besides… as captain it’s my duty to remind everypony in my and every other crew of what happens when I come across mutineers.”
Pinpoint replied, “You don’t have to be so abrasive about it though.”
Captain Sail nodded, “If you don’t like it… feel free to stay behind at the next port we come across. As I always say, any member of my crew is free to leave at any time, so long as they take only their share of the prize and not a bit more.”

Pinpoint sighed as he replied, “Captain… you know very well I plan to stick with you till we kill this prize… but an attitude like that isn’t something you should be proud of. How many of the original crew remain? Two… maybe three counting myself. And all who remain the only ponies aboard that still know of your upbringings.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And?”
Pinpoint replied, “We started out with over forty ponies… and only three remain… the rest either gave up or died along the way. What I’m saying is that without my witness to Iron Hoof’s attack, there is no proof to his existence to keep the crew under control. Meaning that a mutiny could be inevitable.”
Captain Sail smirked, “And that’s why I decide to kill mutineers, as an example. To show my crew that if they ever attempt such an act that they will meet the same result.”

Pinpoint sighed as he looked back over the ship, “But without results to our search, we are only prolonging their patients.”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “This time, we have results. Look at this.”
Captain Sail handed out the sheet of paper as Pinpoint took the notes and read it, “A description?”
Captain Sail nodded as he too looked over the ship, “Aye, and a few leads.” He looked at one of his resources, “Mr. Keg! Make yourself known!”
Hearing his orders, Powder Keg rushed up to the top deck as he stood in front of his superior, “Aye Capt’n? What do ya need?”

Captain Sail took the sheet of paper from Pinpoint as he asked, “You’ve sold your muskets to pirates near and far, any recollection of a pony fitting this description?”
Powder Keg took the sheet of paper and shook his head, “Black coat, and white mane… not that I know of capt’n. He our next target?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “He’s our main target. But if you don’t know him, then perhaps one of your vendors.”
Powder Keg nodded, “I s’pose so, it’s been a number of years since I joined the crew and left the sales to a few of my clients.”

Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… the lass that was with him wanted to go to Pirate’s Cove. So if she knows of that place, then perhaps he or his crew are regulars there.”
Powder Keg smiled, “Aye and just so happens, two of my best vendors sell my arms there.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… the Drib Twins.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Lay the course Mr. Point! To Pirate’s Cove!”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain.” He looked over the ship, “Release all sails and be ready to make merry lads! Next stop Pirate’s Cove!”
Happy with the destination the crew quickly followed their orders as they cheered, “AYE! AYE!”

With a happy look, the crew readied the sail as the helms colt turned the ship to sail towards their destination. As the crew continued a sailor stepped out from below deck with a violin as he played and sung, “I once knew a filly, she acted quite silly, pink and giggly was she. But lo-and-behold, I’d left to find gold, so a couple we never could be.”
After that the entire crew went into the chorus of the sea shanty as Captain Sail smiled as he looked over his happy crew. As he watched, Pinpoint asked, “Captain? Do you ever think about it?”
Captain Sail was confused, “About what Mr. Point?”
The older stallion replied, “About Miss Mist… you know your bet-”

Before he could finish, Captain Sail interrupted by clearing his throat, “That ship has sailed Mr. Point… no need in bringin it up now.”
Pinpoint smiled, “Aye captain.”
Captain Sail sighed as he added, “I don’t know why you would bring that up of all times anyways… What’s done is done… Nothing more to say.”
Pinpoint looked at his captain, “Oh… do I detect a hint of resentment captain?”
Captain Sail shook his head as he replied, “What you detect is a memory that is long since forgotten. Take a note from this shanty Mr. Point. It says that for ponies like us, the sea and treasure is all we need to be happy. Try rememberin’ that.”
Annoyed with the conversation, Captain Sail stepped down from the upper deck and entered his cabin as Pinpoint sighed, “I would… but as a great pirate once said, not all treasure be silver and gold.”

Ch3 Pirate Cove

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As the sun vanished over the horizon, the deck of the Bloody tide started to get dark as a few sailors lit the lanterns hanging from all three masts. As this happened, an extra lantern on the quarter deck was lit as Pinpoint put out the match he used to light it and continued reading a book. As he read, Captain Sail looked over at him and asked, “What’cha reading Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint replied, “Just a book that my niece recently published. It’s her first book and from what I hear it’s pretty famous in Equestria.”
Captain Sail nodded, “that wouldn’t be that little sprout that went with us three years ago. You know, the one who stumbled into that tomb while we were stuck on the frozen sea?”
Pinpoint nodded, “aye, that’s the one.”

Captain Sail sighed in disappointment, “So, she became a writer did she… pity, that lass would have made a great sailor.”
Pinpoint shrugged his shoulders, “She’s doing something she likes, so I can only be happy for her.”
Captain Sail replied, “sure… but that lass was more adventurous then most of this crew. I remember she would always be gallivanting in the crow’s nest every time we sailed through a hurricane. She refused to use her wings when climbing on the sails, not to mention how she would refused to go below when we were in a sea battle against pirate hunters.”
Pinpoint remembered all the dangerous things as he sighed sarcastically, “Aye, can’t imagine why my sister wouldn’t let her come aboard after that fit of danger.”

Captain Sail shook his head, “nah the lass put herself into danger. We only… encouraged it, but now she’s a writer… no danger there, sad to say.”
Pinpoint nodded, “well… at least she chose a good story for her first.”
That said, Pinpoint handed the book to Captain Sail as he looked at the cover, “Daring Do and the Pirates of the Frozen Sea… charmin’ image for the cover… don’t know the artist but he managed to get me good side.”
Pinpoint smiled, “Well, I can definitely see the inspiration for this one, but did sh-“
“A.K. Yearling? Who’s that s’posed to be?”
Pinpoint replied, “It’s a pen name, probably to keep her from being swamped by fans.”
“Hmm… still a shame th-“

Powder Keg trotted onto the top deck as he interrupted, “Capt’n… we’ve arrived.”
With that said, Powder Keg pointed across the bow into the darkness as a large wall of fog started approaching them from the front. As the two officers looked into the fog, they disregarded their conversation as Captain Sail spoke to Powder Keg, “Good lad, now go strike the colors. Then be ready to send up a signal.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye aye capt’n.”
Knowing his orders, Powder Keg trotted to the Jacob’s ladder as Pinpoint placed the book on a table and called across the deck, “Bring in the sails!”
The crew on the deck stopped what they were doing as they all quickly rushed to tie up the sails as Captain Sail spoke to the helmscolt, “steady as she goes lad. We need to be still when the flare is lit.”
The helms colt nodded, “aye Captain.”

By the time the sails were all tied, the crimson Jolly Roger was already waving as Powder Keg leaned his musket against the railing of the crow’s nest, took what looked to be a bottle rocket and placed the stick of said rocket into the barrel. Then aiming it up and to the bow of the ship, Pin point took the flint from his musket and used it to light the fuse as the small rocket shot up into the air and exploded in a bright blinding light that lit up the Bloody Tide from above. After the ship was lit up from the flare, a short silence had passed before two ships that were hidden in the dark and fogy horizon fired up one flare each as the flares lit their ships up with enough light for Powder Keg to make out their flying colors, “Capt’n! Looks like The Sanctuary, and The Keep got the signal.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Good! Then lets make way!” he looked over his crew, “Unlace the main sail. Keep her steady gents!” he looked at his helmscolt, “follow those ships but keep her steady, you know how jumpy these gate keepers are.”

The helms colt turned towards the two allied pirate ships as he replied, “Aye Captain, steady as she goes.”
Slowly, the Bloody Tide turned towards the two signaling ships as the two ships turned away and began leading them further into the fog. After a few minutes of following, the two escort ships that were sailing side by side turned away from one another as Captain Sail spoke, “there, where the ships parted, sail into that.”
The helms colt nodded, “aye sir.”
As the large freight sailed passed both pirate ships, Captain Sail and everypony aboard the Bloody Tide could see both gate ships readying their cannon as Captain Sail called, “No need to worry lads. We all know that they won’t shoot unless we fire first.”

Ignoring the ships’ actions, The Bloody Tide and its crew continued passed as the deep thick fog soon revealed two large cliffs with a narrow strait between them. As the ship approached the strait, Captain Sail called, “Bring in the main sail but open the fore. We will continue slowly less the wind tunnel decided any different.”
The crew quickly rushed to bring in the main sail on the center mast but untie the sails on the front mast so that the wind could still push them but slower than before. As the ship slowly made its way through the strait, the crew could see that every hundred feet or so was a gun port with primed and ready cannons pointing at them. Knowing that these were also precautions by the stationed pirates, Captain Sail and his crew continued ignoring them as the Bloody Tide continued through the strait until finally reaching the other end.

As the ship slowly sailed beyond the mouth of the strait, the fog slowly started to lift as the area ahead became completely clear. Although it was night, it was still easy to see that what was ahead was a large cluster of jagged rocks sticking out of the center of a massive cove filled with damaged and destroyed ships that resembled a sort of ship graveyard. However a closer observation of the area revealed that the ships were wrecks, but they were now connected by walkways, bridges, docks and even ladders that turned what was at first sight a ship graveyard into a large town built of hundreds of wrecked ships. And this town lied in the center of a massive wall off cliffs that made up both sides of the strait they passed through to enter this well guarded town.

As the ship got closer to the town, Captain Sail called out, “Welcome home you scabless dogs! Now get your plots in gear! Time to make port!”
Happy with the words, the crew cheered as they all quickly steered the ship towards the closest port and readied everything for them to dock. As soon as the ship docked, Captain Sail gathered the highest ranking ponies on his ship as he gave his orders, “Par the norm, any who wish to give up the life of piracy, are permitted and must inform you before going ashore… now with that out of the way, down to it, Mr. Point, Mr. Keg, you two will join me as we meet up with The Drib Twins. Once we get our information we can schedule a time to sell our loot. By then we will decide on a proper cast off time depending on the information we receive. As for the Tide, set a detail to restock and guard the ship till tomorrow. Try to set it so that everypony gets a chance to relax a little. Aye?”

Each official nodded their heads in agreement as they replied one at a time, “Aye Captain.”
With that, Captain Sail looked over his crew from the top deck as he called, “Lads! Go out and make merry! Enjoy this time but be back by noon in the mornin’, it could be a short stay, so I'll leave you to enjoy at least the night.”
The crew didn’t so much as reply, but most of them nodded their heads as they gathered for a personal meeting to decide on the tasking for the guard, and restocking details. As they did this, Captain Sail, Pinpoint, and Powder Keg gathered a few of their belongings as they left the ship and went further into the town of wrecked ships. As they continued through the pirate haven, they started to hear a loud commotion coming from a nearby saloon as they heard a call, “ANOUTHER ROUND FOR THE AVIAN PIRATES!!!”

As soon as he heard this, Captain Sail stopped in his hooves as Pinpoint and Powder Keg stopped a few steps ahead of him as Pinpoint spoke, “Captain?...”
Without explanation Captain Sail smiled sinisterly as he slowly turned to look at the batswing doors to the rowdy bar. Seeing his expression, Pinpoint sighed, “uh oh… I know that look.”
With that Captain Sail turned towards the doors as Powder Keg spoke, “as much as I enjoy your lust for conflict captain… do we really have time for this, now?”
Captain Sail didn’t reply, however as he approached the doors to the bar, he placed his hoof against the door as looked at his crewmates, “Remember my number one rule lads?”
The two sailors looked at each other then back at their captain as they both sighed and replied at the same time in hopelessness, “Your fight be your fight.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… and remember it.”

With that Captain Sail pushed opened the door as he and his crewmates stepped into the saloon and trotted only a few steps before the rowdy bar of pirates paused as all eyes locked on the three entering ponies. With the place becoming silent, a large parrot with green and grey feathers, wearing a pirate captains attire complete with vest, jacket, hat, and belt with two swords on it, turned to the three earth ponies as he smiled, “well well well… if it ain’t Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail…”
Captain Sail looked back and smiled, “Captain Jacob Hawk It’s been a while… sadly, not long enough.”
Captain Hawk replied with sarcasm, “Now I would never assume you to be hard of hearin’… so perhaps you’re just crazy. I would hope that ya herd me the last time you were in here… about what I would do if I saw the likes of you again?”

Captain Sail smiled confidently as he replied, “ya didn’t have the brass to do it then, and you ain’t got it now… boyo…”
hearing their captain being talked down to, made all members of Captain Hawk’s crew look at their captain in curiosity as their captain replied with an angry look, “Ooooooh… ya don’t seem to measure the odds against ya laddie… ya see, there are three of you… and plenty more of us.”
Captain Sail smiled, “well… then I s’pose I'll just have to take you down first then… wont I?”
The confident parrot stepped out into the open and drew both his swords as he spoke, “ooooh, them some tough words Sail… care to match them with actions?”
Holding his hoof out, Captain Sail waited as Pinpoint drew his sword and gave it to his captain as Captain Hawk smiled, “so ya still don’t carry your own sword.”
Captain Sail nodded, “a good captain should trust his own crew to take care of any threats long before he needs get involved. Which means, that a good captain, doesn’t need a weapon with his crew by his side… however, he also wouldn’t need his crew, fightin’ his own battles… aye?”

Captain Hawk nodded at the words as he replied, “Well said… now quit your philosophizing and ready yourself captain. I’ve been waiting a fortnight to cut that look from your gob.”
Captain Sail smiled as he mocked the avian captain, “Tweet Tweet lad…”
The mocking words enraged the parrot pirate as he charged out of anger swinging both swords in from both the right and left sides at the same time. Seeing the attack, the skilled earth pony stepped to the left and blocked the attack from that side first before rolling the blade over his head and hitting the other sword as he brought both enemy blades down and dug them into the wooden floor beneath him. With the blades pinned down, Captain Sail brought his hind hooves around and kicked his rival in the face as hard as he could as the parrot was tossed towards the wall, and stopped himself before crashing into a table. As soon as he stopped himself, Captain Hawk looked at his opponent as Captain Sail grabbed a wooden chair and tossed it across the room at his stunned foe. Seeing his incoming projectile, Captain Hawk swung the sword in his right hand as the blade cut through the chair leaving both pieces to fly by him. However as the chair parted, Hawk realized that the chair was a distraction as he saw Captain Sail had already closed the distance between the two and was rearing up to attack him with a horizontal swing.

With no time to strategize, Captain Hawk could only bring up the sword in his left hand as the blades clashed leaving Captain Sail to roll his sword around the blocking blade as he locked his sword behind his opponents and was able to fling it from Hawk’s hand and toss it across the room. With his right hand too far away to attack or defend, the parrot captain was unable to block as Captain Sail brought up his unarmed hoof and punched his enemy upward as Captain Hawk was picked up from the ground and came crashing down on the table that was behind him as the table broke in two from his impact. Stunned but not out, Captain Hawk kicked upward as he managed to kick Captain Sail in his chest and tossed the unsuspecting pony across the room as he also came crashing down on the table across from them. With the fight’s advantage returning to an equal point, the room was in an uproar of cheering from pirates as both captains picked themselves up and glared at each other from across the room.

As the two pirate captains stared each other down, Pinpoint put his hoof on his head in a hopeless manner as he sighed, “We don’t have time for this.”
Not hearing his quartermaster’s words, Captain Sail darted across the room as Captain Hawk did the same as the two met in the middle of the observing saloon as they both broke out in a fit of skillful swings and blocks as the two swords clashed with each attack from both sides. As both sides fought each other with no change in advantage, it wasn’t long before Captain Sail finally took the upper hoof as Captain Hawk tried to attack with a vertical swing while Captain Sail both blocked the attack with his sword, then used his other hoof to grab Captain Hawk’s sword-bearing hand before turning around and using his shoulder and back to throw the large parrot over his shoulder and slamming him against the ground while at the same time, disarming him.

As soon as Captain Hawk hit the ground below Captain Sail, the skilled earth pony found himself carrying both their swords as he raised them both high in the air and dug them both into the floor on both sides of Captain Hawk’s neck as he slowly began crossing his hooved as the blades shifted over one another as they began resembling a pair of scissors that were closing on Captain Hawk’s neck. When both blades were completely closed and against the parrot pirate’s throat, Captain Sail stopped both blades as the rowdiness of the saloon ended with a large number of clicks that came from all angles of the room. As the two pirate captains held their position, they both smiled at one another as Captain Hawk spoke, “Good to see that the great Captain Sail hasn’t lost his… edge?...”
Captain Sail replied, “Just as it is, to see that the noble Captain Hawk hasn’t lost his… Support…”

With that said, Captain Sail looked around to find that every single parrot pirate in the room which easily made up a majority of the building’s occupants, were pointing guns at Captain Sail leaving well more than twenty muskets pointing at him from every direction. After seeing this, Captain Sail looked back at his pinned opponent as both their smiles, slowly turned to chuckling, before going into full blown laughter. As the two laughed at the situation, Captain Sail pulled the swords from the ground and stepped off his opponent as the pirates in the room lowered their muskets and joined in on the laughter. With the tension decimated by laugher, Captain Sail helped Captain Hawk on his feet as Hawk smiled, “Looks like I’m paying the damages this time eh Sail?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Hoping ya have greater luck in the next one Hawk.”

With that the two shared a hand slash hoof shake as Captain Hawk took back his sword and raised it in the air, “Lads! Let us welcome back Captain Sail! The Crimson Ghost Hunter!”
With that all the pirates in the room raised their mugs, “AYE!!!!”
Annoyed, Pinpoint trotted up to Captain Sail as the victorious captain gave him his sword back while the quartermaster spoke, “Well I’m glad you got that out of your system, now maybe we should get back to it then. We have somepo-”
Hearing what was easily expected to be a dismissive subject, Captain Hawk interrupted, “what’s your hurry gents? Sit, stay a while. It’s been a while since we’ve had the pleasure of your company, so at least have a drink with us.” He looked at the bartender as he sheathed the sword he had while completely forgetting the other, “barkeep! A spot of rum for Captain Sail and his crew! All on me!”

Seeing that they were invited, Captain Sail looked at Pinpoint and replied, “Come now Mr. Point. Captain Hawk granted us the opportunity to buy us a drink. Best not disrespect him by turning it down.”
Pinpoint didn’t like the idea, but Powder Keg did as he replied before sitting at the bar, “best not to waste the capt’n’s good graces. Besides, I’m sure we have at least a little time to splice the mainbrace.”
Accepting defeat, Pinpoint sighed as he sat down, “fine I s’pose I could spare a pint.”
Captain Hawk patted Pinpoint on his back as he handed him a mug, “That’s the spirit! Tonight’s the night for merriment!”
The whole room cheered at the comment as Pinpoint mumbled to himself, “looks like one of us is already loaded to the gunwhales.”
The parrot captain laughed out loud, “If it will pass as a reckonable pardon for my loss against your captain! I'll gladly accept it!”

With that, the cheerful captain sat down next to Captain Sail as he spoke, “So Sail? How goes the ghost huntin’? I got a large bounty on your success in this. Did I make the right choice or should I change my bet? Or… have ya found something of use?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I’m a little closer now… so you can cash in your chips when ya see it fit. But Captain Iron Hoof, is now within my grasp.”
The joyous captain bellowed out a loud laughter as he replied, “well seein’ that you have hooves, your grasp doesn’t assure me of anythin’, but I’m happy to hear that the search is going well.”
With that Captain Hawk took a drink as Captain Sail spoke, “So, Hawk? How’s that wee lass of yours?”
Captain Hawk smiled with glee as he took off his hat and pulled a picture out, “aww, my lass is makin’ her father proud as ever. She just became a captain of her own crew a few days ago.”
With that, the proud father handed his picture to Captain Sail as he looked at the image of a female parrot with green and tannish feathers as she stood with her father aboard a large ship. As Captain Sail looked at the image he smiled, “she’s grown into a fine lass. Captain Calaeno… also known as the Harpy Pirate… you must be proud.”

Captain Sail handed the picture back as Captain Hawk smiled, “Aye… and though it breaks me heart to see her list away from me so... sometimes I remember when she was just a wee lass, barely able to hold her sword straight as she poked the back of a sailor sayin’, Make one move and I'll gut ya! Ah… those be the days.”
Captain Sail smiled as he took a drink from his mug and replied, “Well even the toughest of us have to go our own way sooner or later. Even the daughter of Pirate Cove’s Father Pirate.”
Captain Hawk put the photo back into his hat as he replied, “aye, and though that’s the title I bear, times like this make it seem a curse… all I can do is accept that my lass is now a swashbuckler just like her old dog of a father.”
Seeing that his captain friend’s words were starting to slur, Captain Sail decided to try to get information before it was too late, “on the subject of pirates, I wanted to see if ya heard anything about one in particular… that is unless ya think you’re too… tanked?”

The confident parrot pirate smiled, “Come now Sail, ya know that this mind-o’-mine is as tough as an ice breaker. And when tanked…” He guzzled the remainder of his rum finishing off the mug as he slammed it down on the bar, “It’s even tougher.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Then your recollection of lasses shouldn’t be detoured then… I’m lookin’ for a mare that was dropped here a few days ago… A castaways of sorts, do ya think you’ve seen her?”
Captain Hawk shook his head, “not sure, what did she look like?”
Captain Sail replied, “She is a light tan mare with a very light blue mane, gorgeous as a sunset is the word most suited.”
With his words starting to slur, the parrot captain replied, “hmm… sounds like a funny one… now… wait… what where we talkin’ bout?”

Captain Sail repeated, “I asked if you saw that mare I described.”
He shook his head, “sorry… but I’m not into mares. And even if I were, I got a daughter to think abo-“
“No! I’m askin’ if ya seen her!”
The drunk pirate replied, “Seen who?”
“THE MA- ya know what? You ain’t seen her.”
Captain Hawk replied in his drunken stupor, “It’s okay sail, you’ll find love someday. Even a warped sailor like yourself has a fish out there that you can catch.”

Ignoring the drunkards comment, Captain Sail sighed as he took a drink from his mug, “Yea… I’m sure I have. Have ya at least seen the Drib Twins?”
Captain Hawk replied with a lost look, “What?... they ain’t mares…”
“I KNOW THAT!”
Captain Hawk chuckled as he replied with his words still slurred, “I’m just yankin’ your rudder chain Sail. One is here but the other took his letter of marque.”
Captain Sail was surprised, “what? You mean he went straight?”
“Aye, that he did. Was pardoned for his less than honest tradin’s and is now workin’ as a blacksmith in Equestria.”

Captain Sail replied, “So just the one brother then. Whereabouts can I find him?”
Hawk nodded, “At the end of the cove. That sutler is on the Man-o-war at the northern peak peddlin’ his illegal wares for well over price.”
Captain Sail finished his drink as he replied, “well, then it’s time we meet with him.” He looked at his crew mates as he spoke, “let’s go hardy’s time we best be off.”
Captain Hawk felt his hip and realized that the sword that was tossed from his hand earlier wasn’t there as he asked, “Did we squabble earlier? I think I lost me sword.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye, your sword is somewhere across the room.”
Captain Hawk nodded, “did… did I win?... and if not… what did we break?”
The bartender looked at Captain Hawk as he replied, “Two tables and a chair… and no, you didn’t win Hawk. So as usual it’s been added to your tab, along with Sail’s drinks.”

Smiling at his accomplishment, Captain Sail and his crewmates stood up from the bar as started to leave as Captain Hawk slammed his fist on the bar, “Blast!” he pointed at Captain Sail and continued with a slurred but threatening tone, “Don’t cha be getting a fat head now Sail, ya may have beaten me this time… but next time I’l-”
He tried to pat the sword that was on his left side as a threatening tactic but when he realized it wasn’t there he stopped, “wait… where did one of me swords go?”
Smiling at the drunkard’s fleeting memory, Captain Sail replied, “I'll be seeing ya-round Hawk, give my best to that lass of yours, and remember, “If we must hang?”
“We shall hang together. Good luck on that ghost hunt of yours Sail. We have a ton of loot betted on ya.”

Leaving his fellow captain too drink, Captain Sail and his crewmates trotted back into the wood streets as they made their way across the wood ship village on their way to see the only Drib twin in pirate cove. As they continued down the town, stepping over drunks and around fighting rowdy pirates from all over the world, it wasn’t too long till the connections of damaged ships and galleys led out to a larger men-o-war that was sitting at the furthest northern part of the connected mess of ships. As the trio entered the large hollowed out vessel, they entered into a shop that had many high shelves connected by ladders that stretched all the way to the top deck of what would be a formidable battle vessel. Inside they saw a young colt sweeping the floor in the center of the room as Captain Sail spoke first, “Ahoy lad? Is your master about?”
The nervous colt looked at the sea captain and shook his head as he replied, “The master is busy sir… m-may I help you?”

Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “I s’pose so… I’m in the business of acquiring certain dishonest merchandise.”
The now suspicious colt replied, “You mean… illegal correct sir?”
Captain Sail nodded, “in a sense, aye.”
The colt looked at Captain Sail closely, then shifted his eyes to Powder Keg, and finally at Pinpoint. Then as if he gathered his courage all at once, the colt shook his head as he went back to sweeping, “Sorry sir, we work an honest business for honest folks here.”
Captain Sail gave his shipmates a curious look then looked back as he replied, “Do ya now?… What’s ya name lad?”
The colt didn’t look at him as he replied, “John sir.”

Captain Sail nodded, “Laddie John… I don’t suppose ya know who I am?”
The Colt looked at his guest as he replied, “By the looks of ya, you’re a captain right?”
Sail nodded, “Aye, and with me, are my Quartermaster and my master gunner… so I say again, I wish to buy some illegal wares.”
The colt went back to sweeping, “and I say we sell no illegal wares… so bugger off.”
Captain Sail could only smile at the colt’s reply, “ya got a lot of brass talkin’ to a captain like that lad. Specially with his highest crewmates standin’ right beside him.”
With a hint of worry in his words the young colt replied, “If I do… then I do… but you need to know who my master is.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… I know who your master is… he’s the kind of pony to watch idly as his employee makes a fool out of himself in front of dangerous pirates… ain’t that right?” He looked past the colt, “Mr. Drib?”

Surprised, John turned to his employer as the merchant laughed before looking to his customer and replying, “Captain Sail, it’s good to see you.”
As the merchant stepped closer Captain Sail smiled, “aye and the same to you. Who’s the cabin boy?”
Mr. Drib stepped up to his employee as he patted the young colt on his head, “well he’s just some whelp I picked up in Trottingham. He’s a good lad, but hasn’t taken to our way of life just yet.”
Mr. Drib looked at John, “Johnny boy, I understand your caution, but here in pirate cove, All business is… dishonest. So there’s no need in turning the customers away to avoid attention. There won’t be any Royal Guards trying to fool us here.”
John nodded, “well… I wouldn’t have turned them away if it wasn’t for that older stallion sir, he looks a little… noble to me.”
Captain Sail, Drib, and Powder Keg laughed as Pinpoint gave the colt an unamused look as Captain Sail replied, “Ya hear that? The lad thinks you work for the navy?”

After laughing at the comment for a second, Captain Sail replied, “Well, if anything, the lad’s got brass. Fine makin’s for a future pirate.”
John was surprised, “a… pirate? Me?”
Mr. Drib smiled, “of course, all the best pirates start out as cabin boys and climb from there.”
Captain Sail gave a fake cough, and Powder Keg cleared his throat as Drib corrected himself, “except for a few of us who gain our fame by double crossing royalty.”
The two pirates nodded their heads as Mr. Drib continued, “Either way, I’m happy to have him since my brother decided to stay in Canterlot and become a blacksmith. Did you hear about that Mr. Keg?”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye I did.”

Mr. Drib sighed, “Funny, I thought he enjoyed this line of work more then I did… I guess it just goes to show, an honest stallion can have many faces.”
Ignoring the subject, Pinpoint spoke up, “Mr. Drib, We came to speak to you about some of your customers.”
Mr. Drib nodded, “Sure, but first thing’s first.” He looked at his employee, “Johnny, go into the back and get the small chest that’s next to the kegs.”
John nodded as he replied, “Aye sir.”

With that the young colt trotted into the back room as Mr. Drib looked back at his guest, “Now, you were saying?”
Captain Sail replied, “We need a spot of information… and as we all know, that along with your wares, information is what you sell.”
Mr. Drib smiled, “Well if the price is fair, then I can give you any info you need.”
Captain Sail continued, “We are looking for a stallion who owns a few of Mr. Keg’s muskets. And seein’ that you’re the only pony who makes them, you may have seen him.”
Mr. Drib nodded, “Maybe, what’s he look like?”
Pinpoint replied, “Solid black with a white mane…”
Drib thought to himself, “hmm… I don’t think I’ve seen him before… is he a captain?”

Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, he is.”
Mr. Drib nodded, “Then he may be sending his quartermaster to make the purchase. Or he could be using muskets from the time before Mr. Keg fled the Griffin Kingdoms.”
Powder Keg shook his head, “That’s what I said…. I recall many a-time where my dealin’s were with either a master gunner or a cabin boy, but I don’t recall seeing a black pony at all.”
Mr. Drib shook his head, “Sorry then, if Mr. Keg didn’t sell him the muskets then there isn’t any way of finding out how he came about them.”
Captain Sail sighed, “oh well, it was worth a shot. Then do ya know of a lass who came through here recently.”

Mr. Drib smiled sinisterly, “I know of many-a-mares who come through here looking for a great and handsome pirate to sweep them off their hooves. What type do you have in mind?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “why does everypony keep thinking I’m looking for a wife?”
Mr, Drib nodded, “oh… then just a one night st-“
“NO!!! I’m lookin’ for a lass who was dropped here by some traders. She was shipwrecked not long ago and was wantin’ transit here. Do ya know of her? She has a light brown coat and a skyish blue mane.”
Mr. Drib thought to himself, “Hmm… let’s see… I think I know of one… light blue mane, fawn coat… gorgeous…?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, goes by the name Siren.”
Mr. Drib smiled, “oh I know who you’re talking about. Mane braded with the metal horse shoes nailed to her hooves.”

Captain Sail was interested, “metal… what?”
“Yea, she had metal horse shoes nailed into the bottom of her hooves. It was the strangest thing I’ve ever seen, but everypony has their own sense of fashion now a days, so I didn’t question it. I figured it was probably some special thing she did for the pirate crew she was apart of.”
Captain Sail replied, “Well if her name is siren then that’d be her. Do you know where she is?”
Mr. Drib acted like he was thinking to himself as he replied, “Now let me see…hmm I wish I could tell you… but then again what kind of sales pony would I be to just give away valuable information like that for free?... not a very good one if you ask me.”
Seeing what Mr. Drib was saying Captain Sail sighed, “Alright how much will it cost?”
At that moment, John returned with a small chest as he sat the chest down in front of Powder Keg and spoke, “here you are sir. Your share of profit for your musket sales.”
Powder Keg smiled as he took the chest and opened it, “Thanks lad. Much appreciated.”

As Powder Keg looked over his payment, Mr. Drib smiled, “that chest should about do it. Plus a little extra.”
At first Powder Keg became nervous but then Captain Sail replied, “No…”
Sighing in relief, Powder Keg closed the chest as Captain Sail made a counter offer, “that chest… and you will restock my ship with gunpowder… do we have an accord?”
Mr. Drib smiled, “done…”
Captain Sail looked at Powder Keg “Mr. Keg, hand it over…”
“Aww…”
With that wine, Powder Keg gave the chest back to John as the young colt took it back into the back room.

With his payment received, Mr. Drib spoke, “the mare you’re looking for left this morning. She says she needed to steal a ship and crew to hunt down a murderer.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And where did she go to do so?”
Mr. Drib smiled sinisterly, “she went to a kingdom of peace and tranquility. A place that you yourself have been too, but refused to return… care to take a guess?”
Captain Sail didn’t take any time to think as he replied, “She went to Equestria… didn’t she?”
Mr. Drib nodded, “yep… just this morning so you know she’s half way there by now.”
Captain Sail rubbed his head in irritation as he replied, “well if this ain’t a case of karma in the works, nothin’ is.”

Although Pinpoint knew what he meant, Powder Keg was confused as he replied, “Well if she is in Equestria then we should just go get her, right capt’n?
Pinpoint shook his head, “well… it ain’t as simple as it seems.”
“If this is about the bounty on his head then what’s the big deal? I’ve got a bounty on me in a majority of the world and ya don’t see me avoiding it.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “I can live with the loot on my head… it’s the hunter that I’m worried about.”
Powder Keg was confused, “hunter? A pirate hunter?”
Pinpoint replied, “Nah, pirate hunters we can handle… this particular hunter is much worse… and it wouldn’t be so bad if the captain didn’t leave her standing alone at the altar.”
Powder Keg was surprised as Captain Sail added, “The lass I left behind isn’t known for mercy… if anythin’ she’s earned her nickname b-”

At that moment Captain Sail noticed that Mr. Drib was watching him closely as the information dealer seemed to be paying full attention to what the captain was about to say. Seeing this Captain Sail sighed, “Never-ya-mind… fact of the matter is that in Equestria, myself and my entire crew is at risk… unless…”
“Unless?”
Captain Sail thought to himself as he replied, “If we go there, we have to avoid attention… which means we can’t cause any trouble for the local authorities.”
Pinpoint sighed as he smiled at the irony, “well for a scurvy crew of pirates, that ain’t gonna be as simple as sailing across a pond. I think it’s safe to say that you’ve got the devil’s luck”
Powder Keg nodded, “true, we ain’t the sorts to blend into a herd.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Well… if the lass we are after is there then we need to try. Mr. Keg, you stay here and begin negotiations for the exchange of our loot. Then return to the ship and rest. Tomorrow at one in the afternoon, we set sail for Equestria. I only hope that… she don’t find out. Otherwise even Celestia won’t be able to save us.”

Ch4 Returning Home?

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The Bloody Tide rocked back and forth as it made its way through the thick and eerie fog. With dusk rolling in, Pinpoint could only sigh in disappointment as Captain Sail exited his cabin, trotted up the steps onto the upper deck and spoke, “How are we fairin’ Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint shook his head, “Not so good captain… if my navigatin’ is correct, and it usually is, we should be able to see the Horseshoe Bay light house by now… but… with the sight of this fog. We can barely see the tip of the bow, let alone the coast.”
Captain Sail looked as far off into the distance as he could and replied, “I see what you mean, there ain’t a single sign of the coast anywhere.” He looked towards the crow’s nest, “is Mr. Keg up in his post?... I can’t see it clearly.”

Pinpoint nodded, “aye, he is tryin’ to get a view above the fog, but it’s no use. The fog seems to consume everythin’ in sight.”
Captain Sail called to the crow’s nest, “Mr. Keg!”
Powder Keg looked down onto the deck, “Aye Capt’n?”
“Can you see anythin’ from there?”
Powder Keg shook his head, “Not unless you count our colors. There ain’t a single light or sign of anythin’ out here, on the count of the fog!”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, well just keep tryin’. Let us know if you see a hint of land.”
“Aye Capt’n!”
Captain Sail looked over the hazy deck of his ship, “And that goes for the rest of you! Keep your eyes peeled and your senses sharpened. I would like to see land soon, but I don’t want us to run ashore by accident.”

Doing as they were told, the crew of the bloody tide watched over the railing closely as they each tried their hardest to see any signs of reefs or sandbars. As they watched one of the sailors tried to find a better place to watch from so he began trotting down the cannon line until something unexpectedly stopped his hoof as the unknown object nearly tripped him. Looking down at the unknown obstacle, the sailor saw something that seemed strange. It was a wire that ran from the back of one of the cannons and to the foremast. Confused the sailor taped the wire with his hoof but as he did, the wire seemed to spring to life as it wrapped around his hoof and slammed him against the mast before pulling him into the air and hanging him almost ten feet from the deck he was just standing on. Hearing the Sailor’s scream in surprise all eyes on the Bloody Tide looked at the now suspended sailor as Captain Sail started to speak, “what in blue blazes?”

Before anything could be done a second sailor was picked up from the deck just like the first as this sailor was pulled into the air and suspended over the deck like the first. Confused the crew of pirates looked around as Pinpoint called over the ship, “What’s going on!”
“CAPT’N!!!”
With the call echoing out over the ship, all went silent as everypony aboard looked up to see what Powder Keg was looking at as she stood on the highest yardarm just below the crow’s nest. Looking down from high above the deck, stood a dark grey mare wearing a black cloak and staring down at the crew like an angle of darkness who has come to seek judgement. With the dark and unamused expression on the mare’s face, Captain Sail mumbled to himself, “A Cutter...”
Without waiting for orders, Powder Keg called, “I got em’ Capt’n!”

With that Powder Keg pointed his musket down at the top of the mare’s head as he pulled the hammer back and took a split second to aim. However just before he pulled the trigger, a large needle flew out of nowhere as the dagger like projectile hit the front stock of the musket just as he pressed the firing lever. As the front of the musket exploded in a puff of smoke, the needle knocked the barrel slightly off its target as the bullet flew passed the cloaked mare before digging into the deck of the ship far below. Without the slightest flinch from the musket shooting, the mare stood calmly as she flung her hoof up as a barely visible wire uncoiled from her hoof as it flew passed the railing of the crow’s nest and wrapped around Powder Keg’s neck. Then before he could react, the mare flung her hoof back down as the wire tightened and pulled the unsuspecting stallion over the railing as he and his musket fell from the very top of the mast and crashed down onto supply creates as the shattering wood cushioned his fall, but not enough to prevent the impact from stunning him beyond the point of moving.

As Captain Sail’s crew became nervous, a sailor near where Powder Keg came crashing down, spotted his musket and quickly ran for it, as he picked up the weapon and tried to reload it. Watching the sailors’ attempt the mare pulled a hidden dagger from under her cloak as she watched and waited for the precise time to react. Finally as the sailor finished loading the musket, he raised it up and aimed at the cloaked mare, but before he was able to fire, the cloaked earth pony stepped off the yardarm and began falling from her suspended pedestal. As she fell, the mare raised up the dagger as an unseen wire that was wrapped around the armed sailor’s hind hoof tightened before picking up unsuspecting sailor as he was hoisted into the air at the same rate as she was falling. Without expecting it, the armed pony dropped the musket as he flew into the air screaming in fear as the clever mare used him as a counterweight to slow her fall.

Less than a split second later, the cloaked mare landed safely on the main deck and she took the dagger in her hoof and buried the blade into the deck as the third suspended pony stopped flying upward and found himself hanging with the other two sailors from before. With the wire now anchored to the main deck, the cloaked mare slowly stood up straight as she looked just slightly to the side where Powder Keg was laying on a number of smashed creates. Still too stunned to get up, the earth pony looked at the dark mare as her eyes paned over and locked onto Captain Sail who watched from the upper deck of the Bloody Tide. Taking the opportunity the crew all drew their swords as one called, “GET HER!!!”
With no worry in her expression, the cloaked mare stood still as the armed pirates quickly closed in, but before they could get within striking distance, Captain Sail called over his crew, “Hold your blades you senseless bilge rats!!!”

The charging pirates stopped and looked towards their captain as he continued yelling at them, “In what lifetime did any of ye call yourself captain enough to out rank me!!! If I wanted you to attack I'd give the order myself!!! Now put away your weapons now, or no help me… I'LL TIE THE LOT OF YA TO A CANNON AND BLAST YA ALL TO KINGDOM COME!!!”
Fearful of the captain’s threat, the crew sheathed their swords and stepped back from the cloaked mare as Captain Sail trotted down the steps onto the main deck and spoke, “A thousand pardons Miss Melody, my crew may be a bit… uncouth, but for a scurvy crew of pirates, ya can’t be blamin’ em’ too harshly. It’s not often we receive a visit from a noble mare.”
The cloaked mare replied with an unamused expression, “Mr. Sail… when the boss mentioned you became a pirate, I’ll admit, I was shocked… but to see you now… it’s still a little hard to believe.

Captain Sail stopped just as he reached an open area between his crew and the mare as he replied, “Aye… a lot has changed over the two decades I’ve been gone. But please don’t see me disrespectful… but I'd be callin’ ya a liar if ya claimed that you were the one here to see me.”
With that, Captain Sail turned around and called into the air as he continued, “I know you’re here lass! Ya don’t have to be shy, you were always welcomed aboard the Tide, so it be kind of ya to let yourself be known!”
The crew stared at their captain with confused expressions as Captain Sail felt a presence as he looked to the shadows under the stairs he just trotted down as he smiled sinisterly, “Hello Miss Reaper…”

At first most of his crew though he had lost his mind, but then as they all looked into the narrow shadow that sat under the stairs, they could see a crescent shaped glare as it slowly exited the shadow to reveal itself as a large scythe. As soon as the scythe had completely emerged from the shadows, the dark cloaked mare wielding the large weapon slowly emerged with it as she stepped completely out before glaring across the deck at Captain Sail with eyes that could kill. As the mare glared daggers at her old acquaintance, the entire crew could feel the murderous tension between the two as they all felt fearful for their own lives. With silence adding to the tension, the mare put down her cloak’s hood revealing the face of the furious Jasmin Mist. Seeing that she was who he thought, Captain Sail spoke as he removed his hat and bowed politely, “Lady Jasmin Mist… it’s been a while lass. How have ya be-”

Before he could finish, Jasmin interrupted with a furious but calm tone, “don’t talk to me as if you did nothing wrong. You’re not welcome here in Equestria anymore… Lord Sail.”
Slightly nervous, Pinpoint who was still standing on the top deck, looked at the crew’s expressions as they each started whispering amongst themselves in surprise to how their captain was addressed. Trying to prevent the rumors from changing shape amongst the herd, Pinpoint started trotting down the steps onto the main deck as he spoke, “Lady Mist… to what do we owe this visit aboard the Bloody Tide?”
Jasmin looked over at Pinpoint and replies in anger, “Don’t think you’re any further off the hook as your captain Mr. Point. You’re the reason this whole mess began in the first place.” She looked back at her ex, “Though it is slightly outdated, the crime for piracy is still the same as treason, Death. So tell me, for what reason should I have to not carry both your sentences out here and now? And try to be convincing… I’m still annoyed from our last… engagement?”

Captain Sail felt a little nervous but he didn’t show it as he replied while putting his hat back on, “Now Jasmi-“
“Its Mrs. Mist to you… or in your case just lass is fine. You lost the right to address me by name, when you left me at alter.”
Now the crew, who were whispering about the title Lord Sail, where too shocked to whisper as Captain Sail replied, “Very well, Mrs. Mist… We both know that if ya truly wanted me dead that I would be lying here in a pool of my own blood as we speak. So… one would guess that for some reason, ya saw it in your heart to forgive me enough to grant mercy upon this humble pirate.”
Unamused by his answer, Jasmin replied, “no… I just wanted to see you suffer before you die… just as I have.”
Captain Sail replied, “Now it hardly seem that you’re sufferin’ at all lass. Ya say you’re now a misses? Married and I would assume a mother by now aye?”

Jasmin didn’t answer, instead she stayed on subject, “Why have you returned to Equestria?... It’s been over twenty years, so why now did you choose to come back?”
Captain Sail smiled, “for you…”
Seeing through him Jasmin replied with a serious tone, “Bull… that’s strike two captain… answer correctly or your next answer will be your last.”
Seeing that she wasn’t looking to play any games, Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders, “Ya can’t blame me for tryin’ to appeal to your better nature lass, but if ya must know… I found me a lead that led me back here.”
Jasmin became curious, “A lead… to what?

Captain Sail replied, “To my reason for leavin’. To find the Iron Wing, and its captain, Iron Hoof.”
Hearing this Jasmin smiled hopelessly as she shook her head while Captain Sail tried to continued, “If I find the pony here who was on his ship, then ma-”
She interrupted as she spoke in a convincing tone, “There is no lead captain, because there is no Iron Wing. I don’t understand it… Twenty years you’ve been gone searching for a captain who doesn’t exist, and yet you still haven’t realized that he isn’t even real.”
Confused, Pinpoint asked, “wait… you knew why he left?”
Jasmin replied, “Of course I did… You vanish on the night of our betrothal and steal a ship from princess Celestia? Anypony with even the slightest concern for you would look into it. Your butler, your mother, even the witnesses at the docks all said the same thing. That you were going to hunt for Captain Iron Hoof… A ghost of all things, that doesn’t even exist anymore.”

Pinpoint became curious, “Doesn’t exist anymore?... What are you gettin’ at?”
Jasmin looked at her subornment who was standing silently the whole time as she spoke, “Aria, you were the mare I put in charge of the investigation… What was it you discovered again?”
Aria replied, “Captain Iron hoof was a pirate who terrorized the seas over three hundred years ago. From the reports we uncovered, he sank over two hundred ships total. Anything from navy Men-o-wars, to small fishing caravels. A commodore appointed by the king of Prance was hired to assemble a fleet of ships to hunt down and sink Iron Hoof. But after tracking the pirate down, the fleet was able to corner and chased him into a hurricane off the coast of the Griffin Kingdoms. However, wreckage from all ships was discovered later, with no survivors from either Iron hoof, or the commodore who hunted him down. Now, due to his fame, Iron hoof is only mentioned when a ship goes missing, or to explain one of those ghost ships that occasionally appear without any crew on board. In conclusion, he is nothing more than an epigram to describe simple things such as those.”

Jasmin added as she looked back at her ex, “You see… Captain Iron hoof may have existed all those years ago… but not anymore.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Well… a humble pirate like meself doesn’t know what epigram means… But I'll be sure to tell him that when I find him.”
Jasmin was surprised, “your still going to look for him?”
Captain Sail replied with a serious tone, “If he be good and dead as ya say… then he will be with his ship. So I will find that, then, I will look him in whatever eyes he has left before I ever claim him to be good and gone. I don’t care if I have to travel to the ends of the earth, or to the deepest depths. I will find him whether he be dead or alive. Though he will be dead when I leave him.”
Jasmin taped her scythe on the ground, “and if I try to stop you?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I’m sure ya could, if ya tried… I may be skilled, but even I couldn’t stand up to the Grim Reaper herself but even if ya did, I'll happily go down fightin’. Him… or you.”

Seeing the determined look on his face made Jasmin sigh as she replied, “You haven’t changed a bit, have you?... Just as stubborn and pigheaded as you were back then… but, I always admired that about you. You were never afraid to tell somepony they were wrong. Even if they were right. Fine… if you want to chase ghost stories, then be my guest. But while in Equestria you better not start any trouble. If I hear so much as one whisper of Captain Sail or his crew terrorizing so much as a fly?... I'll come back here and hang you all from your own sail.”
Pinpoint replied with surprise, “Wait… you mean your actually letting us pass?”
Jasmin replied, “Yea… I will overlook it for now. I really want to see your captain suffer for what he did to me… but as the leader of the Cutters it’s my duty to maintain peace in Equestria without restriction from the crown… not to harm ponies due to action of the past or personal spites towards them.”
As the mare started to turn away, Captain Sail smiled, “I thank ya kindly lass, your mercy was one of your best qua-”
“Don’t think you’re off the hook… One mishap and I will kill you. That much I promise.”

Captain Sail asked, “And what would Mr. Mist say about such things? Would he assume it to be the right choice?”
Jasmin turned back and smiled, “My husband and foals wouldn’t mind it one bit. The benefits to marrying a Royal Guard Commander.”
Jasmin looked away as she began trotting into the shadows as Captain Sail nodded and replied with a tone that seemed apologetic, “A commander… I s’pose you found your adventurous husband after all… Aye Lady Mist?”
Jasmin didn’t acknowledge the comment, instead she just put her hood back up and replied, “Remember captain… one problem, then you and your crew will be sunk, both figuratively and literally.”
With that said, the skillful mare trotted into the shadows and vanished without a trace as he mumbled to himself, “To be honest… I wouldn’t blame you if ya did it now.”

Remembering the other member of the Cutters still present, Captain Sail turned to her as he started to speak, “Well then I s’po-”
As Captain Sail turned to the other mare, he quickly found that she too had vanished without anypony seeing her. Confused, Captain Sail mumbled, “neat trick… maybe I could learn it someday.”
As soon as the two guests slash intruders were gone, the crew became silent as most of them had questions for their captain. However the only one with enough courage to ask was just now regaining his strength as he picked himself up from the chattered cargo, picked up his musket and slowly made his way across the deck, “Capt’n?... what that mare said?... is it tr-”
Before Powder Keg could finish his question, a bright light immediately turned on as it towered above the ship lightning up everything it could through the thick fog.

As soon as the light was seen, Captain Sail took the opportunity to change the subject as he called, “The Light house!” He pointed to the still hanging sailors, then trotted back to the helm, “Get them down and make the tide ready for port! Work smartly lads, know that the reaper herself granted us mercy. I wouldn’t want to waste something that is almost never seen!”
Doing as their captain asked, all ponies on board disregarded all their questions and worked quickly to secure the sails and to bring the Bloody Tide into port. Meanwhile atop the lighthouse that just turned its light back on, Jasmin and her subornment stood watching as the pirate ship slowly got closer to land. As it did Aria asked, “Boss, is it really a good idea to let them live?... They are pirates after all.”
Jasmin replied, “They are… but for once I'll let him be the heartless ones in this scenario.”
“Then… why didn’t you tell him?... about his mother?”
Jasmin replied as she turned away, “If he truly cares, he will find out on his own. Besides, we’ve got our own motherly drama to worry about… which remains me? When will Octavia begin her training?”

Aria replied with an uneasy tone, “she already has, she’s only four but she asked me to start training her early. And what about Sylvia? Have you seen her lately?”
Jasmin nodded, “yea… she is talking about the royal guards now, but she’s still too young to do anything. Either way it’s out of my hooves. Her father is in charge of raising her now as for me… all I can do is watch and wait. Anyways… keep an eye on Crimson Sail. If his lead truly has something, then it’s possible that what we uncovered could be false. And if that is so… then this Iron Hoof could be an actual threat to the kingdom.”

A few minutes later, Just as the gangplank was laid to connect the Bloody Tide with the pier, Captain Sail, Pinpoint and Powder Keg stepped off the ship as a dock worker came out to meet them, “Ahoy! You’re the captain I presume?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… that’d be me.”
The dock worker smiled, “Good, then I won’t waste ya time. The fee to dock is a thousand bits a day, or five thousand for a week. We will also need your information such as the ship’s name, its captain, how many are aboard, and your reason for sailin’, I.E. The company you sail for.”
Captain Sail smiled, “How bout this… I'll give ya two thousand for the day… and you can call me Smith. And make up the rest.”

Seeing this as an obvious bribe, the dock worker replied with a smile, “How about twenty-five hundred, and I can welcome you and your crew of… fishing colts to port… aye?”
Captain Sail smiled at the cleverness of the dock worker as he replied, “we have an accord. Quartermaster… pay the colt.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain.”
With that, Captain Sail stood by and looked around the dock as Pinpoint counted out the bits. As soon as it was paid, Captain Sail asked, while still looking around. Where about can I go to acquire some spirits? Is the old Horseshoe pub still standin’?”

The dock worker looked at his bag of bits as he replied, “Aye it is captain, despite the desolation of the rest of the town.”
Captain Sail replied, “I think I'll stop in there for a spell.” He looked at his two officers, “You two can join me if ya like, I doubt we will our mare any time soon, so for now anyway, I think I fancy a drink.”
Both Powder Keg and Pinpoint nodded as Pinpoint replied, “I’ll take that offer, besides. I'd rather keep a low head for a while. Less Miss Mist would remove it.”
With that the three started towards the pub as Powder Keg asked, “Speakin’-a-which capt’n… that mare with the scythe… who was she?”

Captain Sail nodded, “They call her the Reaper. Leader to the Cutters and by far the most feared mare in the kingdom… or at least to those who know of her.”
Powder Keg nodded, “I never heard of such a mare… but I'd believe it. It’s those eyes. They held the look a devil in them… and it was almost as if you could see all the souls she claimed in them. It was… like something from an old sea tale.”
Captain Sail nodded, “aye… she and if she truly tried, she could kill the entire crew without so much as a single one of us knowin’ of the danger we are in.”
Powder Keg asked, “Did… you really leave her before your wedding?”

Captain Sail wanted to change the subject so he replied “aye, but this is better a topic to discuss over a drink. Let’s wait till we are there first. Best not to speak of this in public.”
Pinpoint smiled at the irony, “Yea… it’s better to talk about this at a pub filled with lowlifes and criminals then to talk about this on an open and practically empty street.”
Captain Sail laughed as he replied, “Aye! At least there they can’t judge!”
Pinpoint could only nod in agreement, but as he looked around he started to mumble, “Captain… are we on the right street?”
Captain Sail looked at the nearest sign, “Acordin to that, we are… but…”
Captain Sail looked around as Pinpoint finished his statement, “This is usually the busiest street in town… but… most of the local businesses’ are closed.”
Captain Sail looked around, “Aye… it seems like a lot has changed since we left. I wonder if we can find out what’s happening at the pub.”

Pinpoint nodded as the three sailors continued on their path to the pub. Minutes later the three arrived at the establishment as they entered to see a number of sailor all enjoying a drink at the end of the day. As they went in, Captain Sail and his crewmates trotted to the bar as the bartender asked, “What’ll it be gents? A pint for each of ya?”
Captain Sail nodded as he removed his tricorn hat and sat it on the bar, “aye, rum for me and me mates.”
Seeing that Captain Sail was the better dressed of the three pointed out his title as the bartender replied, “Right away Captain.”

As the bartender was preparing the drinks, a larger burly looking sailor approached the bar next to Captain Sail as he called to the bartender, “Hey Jasper, how’s business?”
The bartender smiled as he replied, “Steady as she is Barge, how is the transit company treatin’ ya?”
The sailor sighed, “Slow… but it pays the bills. Could I get a pint from ya?”
The bartender nodded, “sure, just as soon as I finish serving these fine gents here.”
Realizing he was holding them up, the sailor looked at the three pirates as he spoke, “Oh sorry gents, I didn’t mean t-... Wait…”

With that the large pony took a good look at Captain Sail as he spoke, “Captain?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Mr. Barge… it’s good to see ya.”
The sailor smiled, “Captain, it is you! And Mr. Point… it’s been a while hasn’t it?”
Mr. Point smiled, “Mr. Barge, long time no see.”
Barge smiled, “Aye… about twelve years it has. And who’s this, another of your crew?”
Powder Keg smiled as he nodded in a greeting way, “Powder Keg, nice to meet ya. I’m the Master Gunner on the Bloody Tide.”
Barge nodded, “Aye, nice to meet you too. The name’s Johnathan Barge, I was a helmscolt on the tide for about seven years. It’s good to know she is still afloat.”

Captain Sail smiled, “aye that she is. It will take a true titan of the sea to bring that girl down.”
Powder Keg asked, “So you sailed with Captain Sail for seven years… what made you leave?”
Barge felt uneasy as he replied, “Well… I’m not sure if it’s my place to say.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “since you are no longer aboard the Tide, you don’t have to worry about what you say.”
Captain Sail nodded, “True, As long as it isn’t a threat, you can say whatever’s on your mind.”
Barge replied, “Well… in that case. The reason I left was… I just lost interest.”
Powder Keg was curious, “did ya now? In what may I ask?”

Barge sighed as he replied, “The reason I sailed under Captain Sail was because my father and brother were aboard the Annabelle when she went down. Since it was Iron hoof who sank her, I left to take my revenge on him for that loss. But we sailed for seven years without so much as a hint of where Iron hoof was, so… I decided to let it go, and return home.”
Pinpoint nodded, “As have most of the old crew. But as the captain has always said, your right to leave is always there. All you have to do is tell us when you do.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And that’s why I never stopped any of ya. So how was the return? Did the royal guard give ya any fuss?”

Barge shook his head, “Strangely, they didn’t. They did ask me bout where you were but I told em’ that I was gone was cuz I eloped with a mare and didn’t want to face my family about marryin’ a griffin. Since there was no proof to disprove my story, they had no right to arrest me.”
Captain Sail laughed out loud as all four ponies drinks were placed on the bar. Picking up his mug, Captain Sail replied, “Good thing ya weren’t married to begin with, otherwise that excuse would have taken ya out of one problem and back into another.”
Laughing with his old boss, the large sailor replied, “Aye… that’d be an awkward reunion wouldn’t it?”
The group laughed at the idea as Captain Sail toned his laughter down and asked, “So ya say you were in the transit business eh? Did you go back to workin’ for mother?”

The smiling expression on Barge’s face faded as he replied, “what?... ya mean, ya don’t know?”
Captain Sail felt a little concerned as he replied, “don’t know what lad?”
Barge sighed as he replied, “Captain… Lady Sail died.”
Captain Sail was surprised, “what?... when?”
“Nineteen years ago…”
Pinpoint replied in shock, “you mean, Lady Sail only lived a year after her husband passed?”
Barge shook his head, “actually sir… she passed later the same year.”
Captain Sail replied, “But… how?”

Barge shook his head, “I only heard what the other’s told me, but they claimed she fell into a deep depression after you left Equestria. Locked herself away and refused to speak to anypony. Makin it difficult when royal guards tried to question her about Celestia’s stolen ship. Slowly her health started getting’ bad till finally, her heart just… stopped.”
Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail with worry, “Captain?... a heart attack? You don’t think that the cutters would?...”
Captain Sail shook his head, “doubtful… that may be the Cutters MO. but they wouldn’t hurt somepony who wasn’t threatenin’ the kingdom. No matter how scornful the reaper was about that pony’s son. I think that in this case, there wasn’t any foul play. Mother may have had a strong will in the eyes of the town, but inside she was still a mare. It’s… just a shame I wasn’t here when it happened.”

Barge nodded his head as he continued, “After she passed, Lady Sail left the company to you and your bride to be… but without you here, the company went to Lady Mist. Although it wasn’t much of a company by then.”
Captain Sail asked, “What do you mean?”
“When you stole that ship from the royal navy… it had serious repercussions on the company’s name. Long term clients stopped doing business with em’, ship builders quit their jobs, even rival businesses’ started publicizin’ the incident to lure our customers away. Before they knew it, they had to shut down the dry docks and turn to only transportin’ passengers and cargo. With the company downsized so much the largest and most allurin’ thing about horseshoe bay was now gone. Soon ponies started moving out of the town, businesses started shuttin’ their doors, and the town started to shrink. I'd hate to think it… but we killed Horseshoe Bay.”
Captain Sail sighed as he rubbed his head in irritation, “sure seems that way.”
Pinpoint sighed, “it is bad… but… it’s too late to feel regret. We all made our decisions that day, and no matter how hasty it was, we did what we felt was right.”

Barge shook his head, “Don’t think I’m trying to stop you or anythin’ I’m just saying what happened. Remember I left too, and I didn’t regret it one bit. I still don’t.”
Powder Keg held up his glass, “aye, we all make mistakes. Look at me, wanted in the griffin kingdom for selling weapons to the king’s own guards. I can’t tell if that’s karma or just dumb luck.”
Barge laughed as he too held up his mug, “Any action that hasn’t yet led ya to the gallows is better than the alternative. Aye captain?”
Captain Sail nodded as he held his mug up, “Aye… just makes me want to get Iron Hoof all the more. If anypony’s to blame, it’s him.”

The three sailors taped their mugs together as Pinpoint ignored their toast and replied, “Speaking of which… Barge have you seen a mare come through? She should have arrived yesterday from Pirates Cove. Fawn coat, light blue mane, and very beautiful as she was described, she also was said to have metal horseshoes nailed to the bottom of her hooves.”
Barge thought to himself as he replied, “actually… I think I do. Why? She an acquaintance of you, or a target?”
Captain Sail replied, “Try a lead… rumor has it… she was aboard the Iron Wing as a prisoner and lived to tell the tale.”
Barge smiled as he replied, “did she now?... well… you didn’t hear it from me… but there are rumors of secret games of chance players who gamble at the old dry docks every other night. And part of the rumors say that there was a mare fittin’ that description there just last night trying to recruit a crew to go on a quote… dangerous journey.”

Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “And you’re sure that was her?”
Barge smiled, “come now captain… you know that I’m a regular when it comes to both mares and dice games.”
Pinpoint chuckled a bit, “aye… and we all know how badly you played both when you were aboard the Tide.”
Pinpoint and Powder Keg laughed at the joke though Barge looked unamused at the comment, as Captain Sail replied, “if she was there yesterday, what makes ya think she’ll be there tomorrow?”
Barge looked at the captain and replied, “She said so herself. She didn’t recruit enough sailors to commandeer her own ship yet so she needs more. Although, for a mare like her it’ll be simple, since she’s as gorgeous as a sparklin’ sapphire. Heck even I thought about joinin’ her crew myself.”
Pinpoint asked, “What’s stoppin’ ya?”
Barge smiled, “If I had any interest in joinin’ back up with pirates I’d join up with you lot again. A pirate may leave a dishonest life, but he still wants to be with a crew he trusts.”
Powder Keg nodded as he held up his mug, “Hear Hear!”

As the small group of pirates started talking about days long passed, a sailor sitting at the end of the bar continued watching them without bringing attention to himself. Shortly after, he finished off his drink, paid his tab and trotted passed the group without raising any suspicion amongst the party. After trotting outside the sailor wasted no time as he trotted up the road as fast as he could without making him seem like he was in a hurry. Eventually he turned into an alley and saw a royal guard standing on the other side of the path as the guards stood patrolling the road. As the sailor approached the guard, the guard continued looking away from the sailor as he spoke with an unamused tone, “I told you that my shift started at seven… if you won’t be here on time, then why should I even do business with you?”

The sailor replied quietly, “Cuz as far as informants go, I’m the only one that hasn’t been found out in this town.”
The royal guard replied with some anger in his tone, “Then I’m sure you can show up on time to give me info as needed… or should I just bust you now for the piracy that I decided to wave by a few weeks ago? Unless you can give me a reason not to?”
The informant smiled, “Cuz I learned somethin’ that can fix your reputation and finally get ya off of these streets.”
The guard became interested as he replied, “well?… out with it.”
the sailor replied with an egotistical tone, “what if I told ya that the very reason you were stuck as a dead beat street guard was back in town… and that if you looked in the harbor, you would see the same vessel you were guarding all those years ago that came up missing and ruined your career?”

The guard turned completely to the informant as he replied with surprise, “Crimson sail… he’s here?”
Seeing he had the guard’s full attention the sailor smiled, “Aye… and he goes by, Captain now…”
The guard asked, “where?... and for how long?”
The informant replied, “he’s in the Horseshoe Pub right now… but he will be gamblin’ at the dry docks tomorrow evenin’. Now I know the guards have always known about those illegal games, but overlooked them for this very reason. S’pose its time the guards finally spring their pirate trap… aye?”
The guards nodded, “yea… and info like this will repair my reputation, and bring me up the ranks fast.”
The sailor smiled, “and as you climb up those ranks… can I expect a letter of recommendation to the royal navy?”
The guard sighed in irritation, “fine… the payment seems fair. Now get out of here before somepony sees you, I got a raid to prepare and a navy to inform. Tomorrow night, Captain Sail’s goes down once and for all.”

Ch5 Escaping the Harbor

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Captain Sail, Powder Keg, and Pinpoint followed Barge to the boarded up entrance to the old Sail Dry Docks as they approached the plywood that covered the front gate. As soon as they reached the gate Captain Sail sighed, “it really is closed down ain’t it?…”
Barge nodded, “aye it is… well…” He pushed on a portion of the plywood as a hidden door opened, “it is to anypony who doesn’t know it enough.”
Powder Keg smiled, “A secret entrance… nice.”
As the ponies entered the blocked lot, Barge spoke, “now captain I'll warn ya that everypony here ain’t the most honest lot you know. So they may seem a little skeptic to ya.”

Captain Sail gave him a dull look, “So… your sayin’ they’re a bunch of land based pirates?…”
Barge thought to himself as he replied, “Actually… Forget I said anythin’ you’ll be fine.”
As the group continued into the dry docks they met up with a few stallions who were standing guard as one saw Barge and smiled, “Mr. Barge, come to win back what you lost on Monday?”
Barge smiled, “Aye I did, how are the tables playin’?”
The bouncer shrugged his shoulders, “So, so, but the night is young.” He looked at Captain Sail, “And who are your guests?... they… look familiar.”
Barge smiled, “Don’t cha worry yourself none, they‘re on the up and up. Just a few shipmates from my pirate days.”

The guard started to reply with a smile, “From the old days well then I gu-” He saw Captain Sail’s hat and cape as he realized who he was looking at before continuing with a slightly nervous tone, “Oh… well… um… Welcome captain… it’s a… pleasure meetin’ ya.”
Captain Sail smirked, “Fine establishment ya got here lad… keep up the fine work. I'd expect my visit to be profitable with you on guard.”
The guard smiled as he replied, “you humble me too much Captain.”
Captain Sail smiled “aye… then don’t let me down. Come along gents, the scent of treasure is in the air here.”
With that the four sailors continued into the docks as the second guard looked at the first, “Who is that?”
The first guard replied, “Hold your tongue, that’s Captain Crimson Sail. With an untrained crew and five minutes of planning he managed to steal a frigate from the princess’s Royal Navy. He’s the most wanted pirate in Equestria.”

The two bouncers continued talking as Powder keg watched them as they trotted on, “That was strange… Seems like he knew ya capt’n.”
Barge nodded, “Captain Sail and his crew are well known in these parts… anypony with the brass to steal from princess Celestia is a pony you shouldn’t tussle with.”
Mr. Point nodded, “and I’d assume you added a little flair to the story.”
Barge smiled, “What’s wrong with a little flair? I would think you would enjoy the attention.”
Powder Keg nodded, “lord knows I do…”

Captain Sail could only shake his head in hopelessness as he and his shipmates made their way to the edge of the drained dry dock as they looked into the bowl like area that was the construction site for over a hundred vessels, but was now an area full of tables and gamblers. As they looked down into area that was three stories below sea level, Captain Sail studied each table as he tried to find who they were there to see, but before he could spot her, Pinpoint spoke, “Captain… second table from the dock doors. Is that her?”
Captain Sail looked at the table mentioned as he saw a beautiful fawn mare with an azure blue mane sitting at a poker table with an orange vest and a green tricorn hat on her head at the base of her long, braded, and beautiful mane. As the beautiful mare sat laughing at the conversation she was having with the other ponies she was with as Captain Sail accidently commented on her appearance, “wow…”

Although he said it quietly Pinpoint heard him as he replied, “What was that captain?”
Slightly embarrassed but still able to hide it, Captain Sail replied, “Nothin’.” He turned to his crew, “You three can go about your own, I’ll take care of the lass. But be ready to leave once we get what we came for.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain.”
With that, Captain Sail trotted to the scaffolding ladder as he used it to climb down into the dry-dock’s pit. As he climbed down, Powder Keg sighed, “Shame… I wanted to meet her. A mare that gorgeous would make a fine Mrs. Keg.”

Pinpoint shook his head, “not unless ya want her killin’ ya in your sleep. Just looking at her tells me all I want to know. She’s beautiful, no doubt about it, but she ain’t one to trifle with.”
Powder Keg gave him a curious look, “ya sure?”
Barge nodded, “aye… just look at her. A mare like that has seen plenty of death and is responsible for half. The way she sits is enough to see that… it’s as if she’s waitin’ for somepony to try stabbin’ her in the back. And if they tried… they’d be dead before they could.”
Pinpoint nodded, “And that’s the reason we should keep our guard up. Captain can handle himself, but something tells me that things will be getting lively soon. Mr. Keg, take a look around, I don’t know what it is… but it feels like somepony is expectin’ a show tonight.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye sir, I'll keep my eyes open.”

Captain Sail slowly descended the scaffolding latter as he finally reached the bottom of the dock and trotted through the area that was teaming with ponies gambling away all they had. As he trotted through he eventually reached the table that the mare was sitting at as he approached the table and spoke, “Evening gents, lass, what game are ya playin’?”
One of the ponies at the table replied, “The game be poker… but I warn ya, we be betting high staked here Mr…”
“Captain… but thanks, I'll join ya.”
As Captain Sail pulled out a chair to sit, he took off his hat as the mare spoke, “A captain… funny, I’m the same. What ship are you captain of?”
Captain Sail smiled at the gorgeous mare as he replied, “The Tide… and you Captain?…”
She replied, “Siren… I am… was captain of The Lullaby.”

Before Captain Sail cold ask more, another pony spoke as he started dealing the cards, “Captain of The Tide eh?… can we expect it to go easy on us next it comes in?”
Knowing the sailor was trying to make a joke about the actual sea tide, Captain Sail chuckled, “We’ll see, depends on if she gets what she’s here for.”
As the groups started playing a few hands of poker, Pinpoint watched from the top of the dry dock as Powder Keg approached and spoke to him without bringing attention to himself, “You were right. I was trotting the fence… and… I spotted a few royal guards.”
Pinpoint replied, “Were they patrolling the area?”
Powder Keg replied, “Didn’t seem like it, they seemed more like they were waitin’ for somethin’.”

Pinpoint took no time to figure it out as he replied, “An ambush… somepony sold us out.”
Barge shook his head, “Don’t look at me, I wouldn’t sell my old crew out for all the treasure in the seas. Besides I’m more scared of what the captain would do to me, then the royal guard.”
Powder Keg nodded, “so fodderin’ ponies isn’t a new thing is it?”
Barge shook his head as Pinpoint replied, “Nevertheless the captain is in danger. Mr. Keg you stay here and watch over him. Ya don’t have to tell him, but make sure he gets out when the ambush begins.”
Powder Keg nodded, “aye sir, but what are you going to do?”
Pinpoint replied as he turned to leave, “I’m going back to The Tide to make her ready. We may need to leave in a bit of a hurry.”
Barge asked, “What should I do Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint looked at Barge then motioned towards Powder Keg, “Keep an eye on him. Make sure he doesn’t do anything stupid.”
At first Powder Keg gave Pinpoint an angry look, but then after thinking on it for a moment, he started to nod as if to say, yea you’re right.

Down in the docks, the players at the table played a few hands of poker with Siren winning each one. As the next hand was dealt, Siren asked, “So, Captain of The Tide… what brings you to these docks? Surely it isn’t your poker skills.”
Captain Sail replied, “Perhaps it’s the challenge then… and what about you? What’s a lass like you doing in a place like this?”
Siren smiled seductively, “Really captain?... a pick-up line that predates even this game? You ain’t as smooth as you think you know.”
Captain Sail smiled, as he adjusted the cards in his hoof, “Now if ya knew me lass, then you would know I am as smooth as I think.”
The clever mare replied, “I do know you captain… just as anypony observant enough would.”
With that the mare drew a hidden dagger and tossed towards the dry docks doors that were about ten feet away as the dagger embedded itself into the photo of one of the wanted posters plastered on the door.

The action caught most of the gamblers attention as everypony in the dock looked at the wanted poster that the dagger hit, then at the pony who threw it before realizing that the pony sitting next to her was the same stallion on the poster. As they looked at Captain Sail’s impaled wanted poster Siren smiled sinisterly, “two hundred thousand bits… now that’s quite the booty, even for me. So what did you do that would cause a princess like Celestia, to put such a bounty on your head?”
Captain Sail looked around as he noticed a number of ponies in the area were now readying themselves for a fight as he looked back at the mare and replied, “I commandeered a royal frigate.”
Siren replied, “Your Tide I’m guessing?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… it is.”
“And what could compel you to steal a ship as fine as a royal frigate from a princess who is revered as… a god? Partial insanity perhaps?”

Watching the sailors around him subtly cut off his escape routes, Captain Sail replied, “I needed it to find and kill a fellow pirate.”
Siren smiled as she laid the cards in her hoof on the table faced down, “Really… and who might that be?”
Captain Sail smiled sinisterly, “Captain Iron Hoof of the Iron Wing.”
All of a sudden Siren’s confident smile faded to a serious expression as she replied, “Really… captain?… with a ship as fine as a royal frigate sitting in the harbor and you sitting here. What would happen if The Tide’s captain were to get captured and turned in to the royal guards for the bounty?”
As Captain Sail could see what was about to happen, he smiled as he replied with a confident tone, “Now, now lass, it isn’t nice threatening me when I was so kind as to keep your cheatin’ to myself.”

One of the other players at the table stood up in anger as he yelled, “CHEATIN’!!!”
Siren tried to hide her nervous expression as she cleared her throat and replied, “That’s a… mighty serious accusation captain, Somethin’ like that would need some proof wouldn’t it?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Sure… flip your cards lass… let’s see what ya got.”
Siren flipped her cards over and showed them as she replied, “Three of a kind… kings… see nothing suspicious about that?”
Captain Sail laid his cards down as he replied, “I got two pair, fives and kings… hmm funny I ain’t ever come across a deck with two king of hearts before… strange how a second one found its way into this one… Aye?”

The standing sailor drew a dagger and dug the blade into the cards as he yelled, “YOU CHEATIN’ WENCH!!!”
Captain Sail stood up, “calm down, I’m sure she had a real good reason for doing it. Well lass?”
Siren stood up with an offensive stance, “don’t take this off you and the prize on your head captain! Although I'd be willin’ to-”
Before she could finish trying to turn everypony back on him, a faint booming sound was heard as all the gamblers in the area started looking around in confusion as Captain Sail mumbled, “that sound… It’s?”
All of a sudden, the faint sounds were followed by loud whistles as cannonballs flew in from the coast as some colligated with the dry dock gates and the rest fell onto the upper and lower dock as they crashed down with a shockwave that knocked most of the gamblers to the ground along with dust and debris.

While everypony both in and on the dry docks were stunned, a team of royal guards stormed the area as they and the bouncers became locked in a skirmish. As Captain Sail and Siren picked themselves up from the ground, they looked at the damaged dry dock gate, to the battle on the top of the docks with the Royal Guard, then back at each other as they both spoke at the same exact time.
“You’re coming with me!”
“I’m going with you!”
“What?”
“What?”
Siren spoke, “you’re after Captain Iron hoof right?... I want in.”
Captain Sail thought to himself then replied, “I’m not lookin’ to add a member to my crew, I only need to know where to find him.”
She shook her head, “Well too bad cuz unless you take me with you, I ain’t telling you squat.”

Before Captain Sail could reply, both ponies felt water run by their hooves as they looked to the dry dock’s heavily damaged gate as the sound of breaking beam could be heard as water slowly started draining into the dock. When they both saw this the two looked back at each other and spoke at the same time again, “We’ll talk about this later.”
With that the two rushed to one of the four ladders leading into the docks as sailors fought to get out of the pit before the dock’s gate could give way. As the two fought through the herd of fleeing ponies, it wasn’t long before they both managed to get onto one of the ladders just as the dry dock’s gates broke open as thousands of gallons of water rushed into the dock picking up everypony and table in the area and slamming them against the inside wall with enough force to kill any who were unfortunate enough to get caught in it. With the water rushing in with enough force to break the ladder below them, Captain Sail made it to the top of the dock as he quickly turned around and helped Siren out before the rising water could grab her.

As soon as Siren was up on the top dock, both she and Captain Sail looked into the flooding dry dock as Powder Keg and Barge rushed up as Powder Keg spoke, “Capt’n! You alright?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, were fine, Mr. Keg meet Lass, Lass, Mr. Keg. Good, now we are caught up. Where is Mr. Point?”
Before Powder Keg could reply, a royal guard that made it through the bouncers charged them with a spear, “CAPTAIN SAIL!!!”
Seeing the charging guard, Captain Sail stepped out of the way of the approaching spear blade as he grabbed the spear’s shaft, flung the guard off of it before bringing it back around and bashing the shaft against the guards face causing the now stunned guard to fall into the flooded dock. As soon as the guard was out of commition, Powder Keg replied to the question, “Mr. Point is back at the ship. We spotted this ambush a mile away… although, we didn’t expect them to fire cannon at us first.”
Siren replied with a casual tone, “They fired to disorient us while their guards waited at a safe location. Then while we scrabble in surprise, the guards move in to catch us while we recover. A simple but effective tactic, luckily it means they won’t fire a second volley.”

Surprised with her intuition, Powder Keg gave her a surprised look as he slowly replied, “I’m both surprised… and attracted.”
Barge spoke up, “That’s fine and dandy, but it would be wise to get out of the bay as fast as we can. It looks as if the entire royal navy is down on us now.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, we need to get to the end of the dock as quickly as we can.”
Powder Keg nodded, “We can do that… but um… why, do we need to get to the dock?”
Captain point replied, “Cuz that’s where Mr. Point will be meetin’ us?”
Siren replied, “he’s a member of your crew?... how do you know he’ll be there?”
Captain Sail smiled, “cuz he is a member of my crew. And any member of my crew needs no direction on what must be done. Now quit fussin’ and get to it!”

Barge reached into the flooded dry dock and grabbed onto a broken table leg as he held it like a blunt weapon and replied, “On it Captain.”
Captain Sail tossed his spear to Powder Keg as he looked at Siren, “You coming lass?”
Siren looked at the battle happening around them between criminals and royal guards as she sighed, “Whether you like it or not, I am?”
Captain Sail looked into the water and saw a floating beam with a dagger lodged into a wanted poster as he reached in and pulled the dagger from it, “then ya better keep up, cuz I ain’t waitin’ on ya.”
Siren approached Captain Sail and yanked her dagger from his hoof as she replied in annoyance, “Fine… but remember what I said before, I am not a member of your crew. I’m only joining you till I get what I want.”

With that the small group of pirates started towards the closest dock to them. As they all tried to flee, four guards tried to stop them, as one tried charging with his sword in hoof. Seeing the attack, Barge who was closest to the guard used the make-shift weapon he had to block the attack as he parried the sword away and brought back his table-made club bashing the guard helmet in as the unconscious guard fell to the ground with his helmet barley saving his life, from the massive pony’s attack. Seeing his partner fall, a second guard charged at Barge but before he could reach the large earth pony, Siren quickly blocked his path with a speed that nopony amongst the guards or pirates expected. Trying to react the guard continued his charge as he raised his sword up to strike the mare down, however before he could, Siren used her unexpected speed a second time, only this time it was on her hoof, as she jabbed her dagger into the guard’s chest three times in the blink of an eye before shifting herself out of the guards way as the guard fell onto the ground she was standing on.

Although the entire group was surprised by her speed and actions, it didn’t slow their pace as they continued with their escape. Then the third guard tried to attack Powder Keg with a vertical swing, only to have the clever earth pony use his spear to knock the blade away before spinning it around and lunging the back of the weapon between the guard’s hooves before picking him up and tossing him over the entire group of pirates. Seeing that he was the only one left of the four, the final guard armed with a heavy shield, planted his shield on the ground as he spoke, “You’re not getting passed me!”
Captain Sail who was now the lead of the herd smiled as he charged at the guard’s before leaping towards him. Seeing his target airborne, the guard thrusted the face of his shield forward in an attempt to knock the airborne captain to the ground. However, as the shield moved towards him, Captain Sail used his front hooves to grab the top of the shield as he used his hind, to jump off its face as his momentum flung him over the shield twice as fast as his initial approach.

Still holding onto the solid weapon, Captain Sail aimed his hind hooves to come around and hit the royal guard in his face with well more than enough force to knock him out. As the guard fell to the ground, Captain Sail picked up the shield and called to Barge as the large stallion approached, “Mr. Barge here!”
Barge dropped the table leg as he caught the shield and put it on his back for safe keeping. As the group continued towards the dock they were met with four archers as they lined up and drew their bows while the leader called, “Make ready!”
Seeing this Captain Sail called, “Barge now! Everypony file up!”
With the order, Barge pulled the shield out in front of him as he continued his full on charge, while everypony else in the group lined up behind him as the charging pirates now resembled a freight train with an armored locomotive.

Seeing their incoming enemy the leader of the archers called, “RELEASE!!!”
With that, all four archers fired their arrows but to no avail, two were knocked away by the solid shield while the other two embedded in it without piercing it. Before the archers could fire again, Barge focused all his strength as he lunged forward colligating with one of the center archers as the group trailing behind him scattered at that moment to each attack an individual target. Captain Sail with his hooves, Siren with her dagger, and Powder Keg with his spear. As the wave of pirates succeeded in neutralizing the blocking guards, they continued on for the next hundred feet or so until they found themselves at the end of a long wood dock. As soon as they reached the water they looked around as Siren spoke, “great… now what captain? Where is your escape plan?”

Captain Sail turned around to see a large number of approaching guards running down the dock towards them as he replied, “patience lass, he’ll be here.”
At that moment the large group of guards stopped at the base of the dock as the officer called, “Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail! You have nowhere to go! Give yourself up and surrender! There is no need for further bloodshed.”
Captain Sail stood with his head held high, “You’re daft, if ya think I'll give up that easily.”
The officer replied, “if you surrender now, then we can consider sparing your crew’s sentence… don’t make this any harder for them captain.”
Captain Sail smiled as everypony around him readied their stance for a fight, “I ain’t makin’ this harder for them boyo… I’m makin it harder for you.”

The officer sighed with disappointment as he drew his sword and started trotting towards them, “you brought this on yourself captain.”
As the officer closed in, Captain Sail smiled, “No lad… you brought this on yourself.”
Before the officer could get half way there, a high whistle could be heard as one of the guards looked up, “INCOMING!!!”
Reacting the royal officer jumped back as a large mortar shell with a lit fuse came crashing down as it hit the dock right between the guards and pirates punching through the wood and splashing into the water beneath it. As soon as the splash subsided Captain Sail called, “EXPLOSIVE SHELL!!!”
With his words echoing out loud, his crewmates dropped to the deck as the royal guards did the same to brace themselves for what was supposed to be an exploding shell right under the dock. However the explosion that occurred didn’t destroy the dock like a shell would, instead it only threw water in the air before filling the air with a thick white smoke that completely cut off all sights that the royal guards had on the cornered pirate crew.

As soon as the pirates could no longer see their royal guard foes the Bloody tide sailed across behind them as the ship came closed enough to the dock to graze the structure as Captain Sail, Siren, Powder Keg and Barge managed to jump aboard as they grabbed onto a hanging Jacobs ladder and climbed onto the ships main deck. As soon as they were aboard they were met with Pinpoint who was standing on the deck waiting with Powder Keg’s musket in hoof, “Welcome back captain, did ya win big money?”
Powder Keg and Pinpoint traded weapons as they tossed their carried weapon to the other while Captain Sail replied as he gestured to Siren, “Sadly… this lady luck wasn’t so lucky. That was a fine shot Mr. Point. Good use of the smoke shell.”
Siren gave captain sail an annoyed look as Pinpoint rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment, “Actually captain… I was aiming for the guards.”
Pinpoint checked to see if his musket was loaded as he replied, “And that’s why you leave the aiming to me.”

With that the group made their way onto the top deck next to the helm as Pinpoint looked at Barge, “Welcome back aboard The Tide. You returning to the crew Mr. Barge?”
Barge shook his head, “Nah, but I can’t return to Equestria anymore, so I'll go with ya for now.”
Captain Sail looked over the ship and replied, “Then earn your ferry, Take the helm.”
Barge took the helm as Pinpoint looked to the bay and called, “Equestrian navy in sight! Two brigs… must be the ones who fired on the dry dock.”
Captain sail looked to the two royal ships as he called, “ALL HOOVES ON DECK!!! Get to your positions and prepare to flee!”

Siren gave Captain Sail a confused look, “Flee?… Captain it’s time to fight! This ship is a royal frigate is it not? All they have are a few brigs. They don’t stand a chance against us.”
Captain Sail gave her a stern look, “This is Equestria… the ships aren’t my biggest worry Captain… it’s the shadows they cast… I don’t know how you command your Lullaby. But here on the Bloody Tide, I look for my crew’s best interest. And right now that interest, is getting out to fight another day. Now if you don’t want to come along then feel free to go ashore, but right now, we have a battle to get out of. Cuz if the shadows aren’t already here, then the rest of Princess Celestia’s navy will be soon.”

Siren gave Captain Sail a confused look as she stayed where she was on the top deck, while Captain Sail, Pinpoint, and Powder Keg trotted down the steps onto the mains deck while Pinpoint asked, “That’s the mare we are here for? And what’s this captain business about? She have a ship in the harbor we don’t know about?”
Captain Sail replied, “All in good time Mr. Point.” He called out, “Let loose the main sail, let’s take her out to sea.” He looked at Powder Keg, “Load all main deck cannon, chain shot only, and put the mortar away, we won’t need it anymore.”
Powder Keg nodded as he rushed off to follow his order, “Aye Capt’n.”
The crew quickly scrabbled to follow their orders as Barge turned the ship away from the harbor and strait out to the bays entrance.

On the coast a flare flew up signaling the royal brigs’ as a guard aboard one of them called, “Captain Sail is aboard that ship and is fleeing!”
Hearing this a guard standing next to the brig’s captain turned to him and spoke, “Captain… I gave you this information in confidence. We can’t let him escape. Not now that we are this close.”
The captain replied, “He won’t. Unlike you lubbers on the land, we don’t let pirates get away.” He called to his crew, “All hooves to battle stations! Load the guns and be ready for a fight! Let’s show them what happens when pirates sail in Equestrian waters!”
Following the order, the two brigs started sailing towards their enemy that was fleeing in their direction.

As the Bloody Tide continued towards the two brigs, Captain Sail watched as he trotted back to the top deck as he stood beside his temporary helms colt and spoke, “Take her right between them… let’s give Mr. Keg an easy target.”
As the ship sailed closer, Siren who was standing next to Captain Sail spoke, “Now you’re going to fight?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Be patience lass… I don’t know what kind of captain you are, but your about to see the kind of captain I am.”
As the three ships started to line up in a row, Captain Sail called to his crew as the enemy ships got in range, “Brace for impact!!!”
As everypony aboard the Bloody tide did what they were told, the two brigs on each side of the ship fired off the volley from their single row of cannon as the cannons hit the pirate ship sending smoke and splinters into the air. Amit’s the chaos aboard The Tide, Captain Sail stood tall next to the helm as he called, “Mr. Keg!!! Make the call!!!”
Powder Keg picked himself up and called to the crew, “FIRE!!!”

With that order, all upper deck cannon which were about three feet over the railing of the smaller brigs, fired off as they had no objects to make contact with other then the masts and sails of both brigs as the spinning chain shot cut through the thin masts of both smaller ships. As the masts toppled over like trees on a small island, the two brigs quickly found themselves without any means of travel as the two royal vessels quickly slowed until they found themselves dead in the water. Now with no enemies to worry about, the crew of The Tide cheered in pride as Captain Sail called out, “We ain’t out of the fire yet lads, keep her going as fast as we can.”
As the pirate ship continued passed the now immobilized brigs, the guards who organized the plan called in anger, “He’s getting away!!! Pull her around and chase them down!”
The ship’s captain replied, “With what sail? We can’t bring her about without a means of travel.”
“You’re just gonna let them get away!?!”
The captain shook his head, “we ain’t that stupid lad.” He looked to his first mate, “Signal the boom team! Close off the bay before they get away!”

On the mouth of the bay, a group of royal guards waited by the Horseshoe Bay Lighthouse as they spotted a flair that was launched by the immobilized brig. As soon as they spotted the flair, the group went to work as they tightened up a boom chain that stretched over the opening of the bay as the massive chain completely closed off the only escape that the fleeing pirate ship had to work with. As soon as the chain was raised, Powder Keg looked ahead as he called, “Capt’n! Boom Chain ahead!”
With that every pony’s attention went to the entrance to the bay as they all saw the chain that was raised in hopes to stop their escape.

Pulling out a spyglass, Mr. Point looked at the chains and spoke, “they’re tryin’ to block us in… These guards must be desperate to keep us here.”
Pinpoint passed the spyglass to Captain Sail as the captain looked at the chains and replied, “Aye… now I feel slightly flattered that they’d resort to such trickery.”
He lowered the spyglass as he called, “All Sails loose! Let the wind take us to sea!”
Thinking she heard him wrong, Siren trotted to him, took the spyglass from his hoof and looked at the massive chain hanging across the bay.

As soon as she saw them, she lowered the spyglass as Siren spoke, “Captain… those chains are high and thick enough to clip the mast from your ship. Why are you speeding towards it?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Cuz The Tide will make it through… I guarantee that.”
Captain Sail looked at Powder Keg, “you got any of your special chain shot?”
Powder Keg smiled, “aye I do capt’n.”
Captain sail nodded, “Then I'll leave this in your hooves… take care of it Mr. Keg.”
Powder Keg’s smile turned sinister as he replied, “Aye, aye capt’n.”
Powder Keg stepped down to the main deck and started barking order, “Load the starboard chase gun! Blank shot but don’t measure the fuses till I’m down there! Bring me a grappling hook and the red chest from my cabin! Get to it or I'll load you into the cannon myself!

As the crew followed the orders given, Siren was confused, “The links on those chains are at least four inches thick… there ain’t a chain shot in the world that could cut through that.”
Hearing her complaint, Pinpoint replied, “Don’t underestimate the Crimson Pirates, lass. Just watch and see.”
As soon as the red chest was brought out, Powder Keg looked inside as he pulled out what looked to be two explosive cannon balls that were connected by a chain that was about eight feet long. As soon as the blanks were in the chase guns, Powder Keg tied the grappling hook to himself as he connected the hook to the ships bow railing before climbing down and loading each end of the special chain shot into the two chase cannon on the bow of the ship.

After the cannons were loaded Powder Keg climbed back up and looked at the harbor chain and called to the ponies arming the cannons below, “Cut the fuse to the same length, and raise the right cannon by five degrees!”
The pirates did as they were ordered as a few seconds passed before Powder Keg called, “Synchronized fire on my mark… Ready!... FIRE!!!”
At that moment, both cannon fired at the same time as the chain shot flew through the air stretching the chain at a vertical angle that hit the distant boom chain before wrapping around it bringing the two explosive shells together on one of the links.

As soon as the special chain shot was wrapped on the boom chain Powder Keg smiled, “Perfect shot… BRACE FOR EXPLOSION!!!”
With that call, Everypony on The Bloody Tide braced themselves for a shockwave while Captain Sail held his stance as everypony excluding their captain waited for the chain shot to explode. However as the Bloody Tide eased closer and closer to the massive boom chain, no explosion came. Confused Powder Keg stood up and looked to the chain as he mumbled, “what?”
Captain Sail called over The Tide, “Mr. Keg! What’s the hold up?”
Powder Keg looked back to his captain and shrugged his shoulders, as Pinpoint replied, “The fuses went out?”

Confused, Most of the crew looked to the boom chain as Barge asked, “should I deviate course Captain?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No… continue with this heading.” He called out, “Mr Keg! We are nearing the boom, I'd suggest you fix this before we meet it!”
Nervous Mr Keg looked back to the approaching chain that was now less than five hundred feet from the ship as he rushed back to the where he left his musket as he picked it up and aimed it at the wrapped explosive shot. As Powder Keg fired his musket, the small lead bullet hit one of the explosive cannonballs on the chain shot, but was ineffective as the lead bullet bounced off the solid iron casing of the shot.

As soon as he saw I'd didn’t work, Powder Keg lowered his musket as he mumbled, “Great… now why-”
As the chain started to hover over the bow of The Tide, Powder Keg could see sparking from the fuses of the chain shot as he called in a panic, “ITS STILL LI-”
before he could finish, the chain shot exploded in a power force that caused everypony on board to fall over as the shockwave blew apart a small portion of the main deck and the foremast as the now parted heavy chain fell onto the deck shattering the ships side railing and increasing the damage on the deck as both halves of the massive chain ran off the edges of the ship taking the damage railing and a cannon with it.

As soon as the chain fell into the sea and the damage was done the crew picked themselves up as Powder Keg called, “Uh Capt’n?... I did it!... We’re good now!”
Captain Sail stood up and adjusted his hat as he replied, “Aye ya did… Mr. Point take a damage assessment I want to know what we can and can’t use. Mr. Barge, get us out of the bay and as far away from the coast as possible. Mr. Keg, get into that crow’s nest and keep a lookout for more Equestrian ships, make sure we ain’t followed.”
With that, the crew hurried to follow orders as Captain Sail stood next to Barge watching the situation as the Bloody Tide sailed away from Equestria’s coast.

Far off on top of the Horseshoe Bay lighthouse, The Reaper and Aria stood on the roof as they watched the pirate ship successfully escape the bay. As they watched Aria couldn’t help but applauded the fleeing pirates as she spoke, “I was skeptic when you said to remain uninvolved… but seeing him in action, I truly am impressed I didn’t think he would be able to escape so easily.”
Jasmin replied with a casual tone, “Crimson Sail, or captain as he goes by now… Was once in training to become a Cutter. Once we were married he was supposed to be recruited as one, and in time I would have recruited him and assigned him as a privateer for the Cutters.”

Aria looked at Jasmin, “really… thinking about it that would be a perfect place for him. A contracted pirate working for the cutters would have excelled our security on the sea.”
Jasmin shook her head, “he wouldn’t have gone for it… he never liked the idea of being a cutter, he didn’t want to be responsible for killing another pony. Then again… that was before his father died. Now… I don’t even know what kind of pony he is anymore.”
Aria nodded, “he is much different than he was back then… a little more charming to be honest.”
Jasmin gave her an unentertained look as Aria shrugged her shoulders, “just saying…”
Jasmin sighed as she looked into the distance, “Any news on the mare he picked up?”

Aria nodded as she replied, “She said her name was Captain Siren of the Lullaby… a pirate, though I’ve never heard of her or her ship. We tried to confirm her story, but there are no ships in port by that name, nor is there any record of a pirate ship with that name.”
Jasmin asked, “How did she come to Equestria then?”
“We don’t know, but we assume she hitched a ride on a merchant ship. A few days ago a vessel arrived from pirate’s cove, but the ship’s captain was found dead in his cabin, shortly after arrival.”
“She killed him?”
Aria nodded, “yes… the captain gave the order to cast off and set a course for Equestria, but then he went into his cabin and didn’t leave till he was found after arrival. We assume she killed him that day and passed on her own orders till they arrived. Whoever she is, she is clever, bold, and dangerous.”

Jasmin gazed at her ex’s ship for a few seconds as she mumbled, “The Lullaby… Why does that sound familiar?”
Aria asked, “Should we look into her further?”
Jasmin nodded, “yes, But unless she decided to return, we will leave the matter alone. Captain sail invited that murderer aboard at his own risk. Whatever nails he drives into his own coffin will be dealt with by himself and his crew. Here on out, he is on his own. I waited for him once… but never again.”

Back on The Tide, Equestria was slowly fading from view as Powder Keg called, “Captain! We’re out of Equestrian waters and there are no sails on the horizon! We’re in the clear!”
Hearing the good news, the crew cheered with accomplishment as Captain Sail turned to Siren, “Now lass… if you could, meet me in my cabin, we can discuss matters in a more private setting.”
Siren took the comment as a cheap pickup line as she replied, “In your dreams captain, anything that we can discuss down there can be discussed right here.”
Captain Sail replied, “Fair enough, tell me about your connection with Iron hoof.”

Siren smiled, “How about… no… if I tell you now, then I lose my bargaining chip, and you will dump me at the nearest port.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “that’s not true… we just escaped from the nearest port. We would happily wait till we reach the next.”
Siren replied, “You know what I mean… If ya want me to give ya information on Iron hoof, then you’ll get it as needed. That way, I'll be with you when we close in on him. Do we have an accord?”
Captain Sail gave her a curious look, “Why do you want him lass? How exactly did Iron Hoof scorn you?”
Siren sat down and slightly hid her metal horseshoes as she replied, “He sank my ship and took my crew from me… that’s all you need to know… So… Do we have an accord captain? Or should I take my information elsewhere?”

Captain Sail knew that there was a lot of things she wasn’t telling him, but since some of it was what he needed to know, he replied, “We have an accord, but while aboard my ship you will either be useful or stay out of the way... anypony not willing to work is a stowaway and will not receive any share to any prize, Iron hoof included.”
Siren nodded, “Agreed, then set a course for the Leviathan Sea, and w-”
Captain Sail smiled, “no…”
“wh-what?”
Captain Sail looked over The Tide from the top deck as he replied, “My foremast needs repair and we are down one gun… Our course is set for Pirate Cove. We need to repair the ship before we continue.”
Siren replied with an impatient tone, “The ship is fine, we can still sail as is.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “You’re a captain right? Then you know as well as I that the needs of my ship and crew always come first.”

Siren gave him a confused look, “What? But… if we wait then he might get away. I’m not sure how long he will be in his location. We need to go now.”
Captain Sail ignored her as he turned to Barge, “set a course for pirate Cove. We will repair and restock.”
Barge nodded, “Aye captain setting a heading for the cove.”
Siren objected, “Captain! We need to get to those seas first. Granted the crew’s need is high but we can’t wa-“
Captain Sail interrupted, “If he is still there now, then he may be when we arrive. I can’t risk my crew’s life for any prize.”
“We need to leave now!”

Captain Sail sighed as he turned completely to her, “Lass… I am captain of this ship…and I say we repair first. Trust me, I know all too well what it means to be patient, so quit sqaublin’ and make yourself useful. Otherwise, Mr. Point can show you to your temporary quarters. Sadly it’s with the rest of the crew, but if ya be needing somethin’ more private…” he smiled in a smug way, “I'd be obliged to settle ya into my quarters, less you’re willin’ to share that is.”
Smiling confidently, Captain Sail waited for Siren to reply as she glared at him angrily for a few seconds, before turning to Pinpoint and speaking, “Where are the crew quarters?”
Pinpoint replied, “This way.”
As Pinpoint showed her down to the lower decks, Captain Sail could only smile, “That what I thought.”

As Pinpoint guided Siren below deck as she sighed in irritation, “That pompous, pig headed blowhard… how can a captain claiming to be huntin’ Iron Hoof be so full of himself.”
Pinpoint stopped in his tracks as he turned and glared at Siren, “I won’t tolerate one cross word about the captain! You’re lucky, if not for his request, your quarters would be the brig, so be grateful.”
As Pinpoint turned back to their path, Siren smiled, “so… you really trust him don’t you… tell me… what is his end game? What is it that drives him to continue on this mission of his?”
Pinpoint replied, “The captain has his reasons just as you… although… I’m not too certain your reason is as simple as you say. So what’s your end in all this?”
Siren replied with an uninterested tone, “Don’t ask questions ya don’t want to know the answer to.”

Ch6 The Crimson Pirates

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As the sun peered over the horizon, Captain Sail stepped out of his cabin as another sailor saw him and called, “CAPTAIN ON DECK!!!”
Seeing the sailor, Captain Sail replied, “As you were… how was the night watch?”
The sailor replied with a nervous reply, “Well… um… we had an incident with um… four sailors.”
Captain Sail gave the sailor a stern look, “Incident… what kind of incident?”
The sailor slowly pointed up as Captain Sail looked into the ships rigging as he replied, “oh… that kind.”
At that moment Pinpoint trotted up from below deck as he spoke, “captain… we took a count for the morning… but… we have four sailors un-counted for.”
Captain Sail replied, “Don’t worry about them, Mr. Point, It seems that all four of them are aloft.”

Knowing what the term meant, Pinpoint looked to the rigging above as he spotted all four missing sailors, as they hung by their hind hooves from the highest yardarm with bruises that indicated that all four of them were beaten within an inch of their lives. As the two looked over the hanging sailors, Pinpoint asked, “What happened?...” he looked to the night watch, “Explain yourself now!”
The sailor replied, “I-it wasn’t me sir… It was the mare.”
Captain Sail replied, “Was it now?...”
The sailor replied, “Last night, a few of the crew were talkin’ about tryin’ somethin’ with her… but as you can see… they failed. As punishment… she beat ‘em to a pulp, and strung ‘em up as… an example.”
Captain Sail gave the hanging sailors a stern look, “did she now?...”

Pinpoint looked to another sailor as he called, “Climb up there and cut ‘em down, be careful no-”
“no.”
Pinpoint looked back at Captain Sail, “No?... captain?”
Captain Sail replied with an angry look, “Aye… I said no… Let ‘em hang there for their actions. As the lass did… I want ‘em to remain there as an example to the rest of the crew. Nay… a warning.”
The night sailor asked, “A warnin’ captain?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… A warnin’ to anypony on my ship who wants to try anymore funny business with the lass. Cuz if it happens again… I'll fodder each and every one of ‘em.” He looked back at the hanging sailors, “Leave ‘em up there till we arrive in Pirate Cove. Perhaps a day bakin’ in the hot sun will remind ‘em of their manners… Better yet, gather the crew on the deck in five minutes. I'd like to teach a lesson to the rest of the crew about manners.”
Captain Sail turned and trotted towards the stairs to the lower deck as Pinpoint asked, “Where are you goin’ captain?”
Captain Sail replied, “I’m goin’ to check on our guest. See to your instruction, I'll be back to teach soon.”
Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Aye Captain, I will.”

Captain Sail preceded to go down below as he made his way to the orlop deck where the crew slept. As he arrived on the deck, the last of the crew was on their way out as one called, “Captain on deck!!!”
As Captain Sail looked to the sailor he replied, “Carry on… Report to Mr. Point for your work.”
The sailors nodded, “Aye, aye Capt’n!”
As the sailors trotted passed him, Captain Sail looked down to the end of the deck as he saw Siren washing her mane in a barrel. Hearing the earlier call, she looked to Captain Sail with a distasteful look before going back to her business without a single word said. Seeing the look that was given clearly, Captain Sail made his way closer to her as he passed all the hung hammocks that belonged to the crew. At the very end, right before reaching Siren, Captain Sail saw one of the hammocks that had a small belt that was small enough to hide under a vest with a dagger in a small sheath. As Captain Sail reached over and picked up the dagger, Siren spoke without looking at him, “I wouldn’t play with that if I were you… you’ll poke your eye out.”

Captain Sail laid the belt back as he replied, “I saw the number you did on those sailors… care to explain?”
He mare smiled in a smug way, “there ain’t much to say… they approached me last night and offered to show me a… good time. But I decided to show ‘em a time of my own. Now I don’t know about them… but I had a blast. It’s been a while since I was in a fight like that.”
Captain Sail nodded, “I see… did ya at least fight fair?”
Siren shook her head, “I offered ‘em to get more ponies to fight with them… but they thought they could handle me themselves. So it wasn’t very fair at all.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Well… perhaps they didn’t know what it was that they were up against.”

Siren poured water over her mane as she replied, “do you?...”
Captain Sail nodded, “Indeed I do lass… but enough about us… I think a better topic… lies on your… plot.”
As soon as she heard his comment, Siren looked at Captain Sail who only returned the look with a smile as she swung her hoof in an attempt to punch him, however, before her hoof could make contact, Captain Sail raised a dagger as the metal on her hoof made contact with the blade making a spark fly through the air. Surprised, Siren shifted her eyes to her hammock where she noticed that her belt was there but without the dagger, then she looked back at Captain Sail as he spoke, “a thousand pardons lass… but my comment wasn’t directed to your figure, but your cutiemark. A music note with a jolly roger on the stem. Kinda poetic if I say so meself. But as curious as your mark is… it’s nothin’ to these…”

With the dagger still placed against the metal horseshoe on her hoof, Captain Sail shifted the dagger enough to make an obvious metal scraping sound as he continued, “A metal horseshoe nailed directly to the bottom of your hoof… Now I know of many ways for a crew to pledge loyalty to their captain… but is that what this is?... or is it somethin’ else?”
Siren pushed the dagger away as she gave Captain Sail an angry look, “That matter is not on your horizon so you shouldn’t concern yourself with it.”
Siren went back to the barrel and dried her mane as he nodded, “I see… well, since you obviously hold a sort of hostility amongst myself and this crew…” he put away the dagger, “I'll just hold onto this until you learn to play nice. Can’t have a dangerous mare with a dangerous weapon loose on my ship.”

Siren gave Captain Sail a slightly seductive look, “come now captain… you should know by now that it isn’t the dagger that makes me dangerous.”
Captain Sail smiled as he turned to leave, “Lesser of two evils lass… lesser of two evils.”
As Captain Sail turned to leave Siren started bradding her now dry mane as she spoke, “I heard a funny rumor amongst the crew last night… somethin’ about how their noble captain, is just that... a noble.”
Captain Sail stopped, “did ya now?”
She nodded, “Aye I did… and now they’re talkin’ amongst themselves… Is it possible to follow a captain to riches, when he already has well more than the crew he manages?”
Captain Sail replied, “The word you’re lookin’ for, is treasure. And aye, ya can. After all, not all treasure be silver and gold.”

Siren gave him a sinister smile, “really… and what treasure would leave you to abandon your lap of luxury, for an aging boat and a scurvy crew?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I only seek to claim my prize.”
She continued, “And will this prize be enough to calm your crew?... their trust in you is fading with these rumors, so… what’s to stop ‘em from attemptin’ a mutiny?”
Captain Sail replied, “They each know what will happen if they even consider such an act. But as threatenin’ as your tone is… there is some truth to your warnin’. S’pose I should add that to my lesson I’m ‘bout to teach. Meet me on the deck in five minutes. You could take a lesson on how a captain keeps his crew on line.”
With nothing more to say, Captain Sail trotted back down the line of hammocks as Siren mocked him behind his back muttering, “You can take a lesson on how a captain keeps his crew in line… tch Blowhard.”
Although he didn’t hear her completely, Captain Sail did hear the insult as he mumbled without slowing his pace, “Trollop.”

Later, Captain Sail stood atop the upper deck as he overlooked his crew who were working on the main deck as Pinpoint and Siren trotted up to the main deck as Pinpoint spoke, “The crew are all present captain.”
Captain Sail nodded, “good… then it’s time to teach the lesson.”
Pinpoint nodded as he turned to the lower decks and called, “All hooves pull your head out your plots and listen up!!! Captain’s gotta teach stuff, so listen up!!!”
Hearing the order, the crew started to gather around on the main deck as they looked to the upper deck that Captain Sail was standing on as Captain Sail called, “I'd like to start by bringin’ your attention to the ugly additions to our sails above.” He looked to the still hanging stallions then looked back, “Last night… these four gutless dogs disgraced this crew’s name, by showin’ disrespect to our temporary guest. Luckily, her response was with a sense of grace and elegance. She gracefully beat the tar out of ‘em, then elegantly hung ‘em out for all to see.”

Captain Sail looked up as he saw that the four hanging ponies were all four conscious as he smiled sinisterly, “though as bad as it may seem… it’s a thousand times more merciful than if I had gotten to ‘em first.” He looked back at his crew, “So listen and listen well… while aboard this ship, the lass is a guest and will be treated as such. Any actions that intend harm or unwelcomed contact will not be tolerated. And to prove a point…” He looked back at the four sailors as he spoke loud enough for the rest of the crew to hear, “Mr. Point… I want you to keelhaul these sailors… then hang ‘em back up to dry. They will remain there until we arrive at Pirate Cove. Then, they will leave the crew with only their personal items, and their lives if they manage to hold onto them.” He looked back at the rest of the crew, “Cuz if I catch anypony else attemptin’ such actions… they will personally taste an explosive shell… before… and after I light the fuse. AM I CLEAR!?!”
The crew called in agreement, “AYE!!!”

Captain Sail nodded as he continued, “good… now to another matter. I’m sure everypony here had either heard or muttered sayings of what our noble guest The Reaper said as she and her wire toting’ Cutter boarded our ship back in Equestria. But for those of you who wish to play dumb… I'll remind ya. Upon our arrival in Equestria, a mare who’s name you will all know as The Reaper. Boarded our ship and spoke of a time long passed, using’ terms, like lord and noble to describe me. And it is all true.”
the crew started looking amongst themselves at their reactions as Captain Sail continued, “I did once hold the title, I lived in a fancy house, filled with money, servants, and anythin’ my spoiled little heart could ask for… includin’ that beautiful and deadly mare, who was to be my bride. But don’t think for a second that makes me soft.” His expression became angry, “that is no way for sailor such as I, to live. That fancy manor was a prison, that money a ball and chain, and if I had stayed there any longer, I would have become a lubber just like the rest of them. My name says it all… it says that I’m supposed to journey across the seas with no ties to anypony but the wind to my back and the sailors on my ship. And yes… that decision left an entire fortune and a beautiful mare at altar, with no groom to live her happily ever after.”

He looked at Siren’s reaction which was slight surprise before looking back to the crew and smiling in a sinister fashion, “But that only proves, that death herself, can’t keep me from the sea. I came out here to hunt a ghost for my own personal reasons, and that is where the matter ends. So any talk of this, lord business will be put to rest smartly. Or I'll be puttin’ you to rest, the very way that leaves a smile on both my and Mr. Keg’s faces. And if I hear, any such talk of mutiny, or distrust amongst this crew…” His smile faded as his expression turned to rage that sent chills up the entire crew’s spine, “I’ll decorate the yardarms with your innards while leavin’ you alive long enough to give a full critique on it… am I clear?”
Although their reaction wasn’t as enthusiastic as the last, the crew nodded as they replied slightly out of sync, “Aye!”
Captain Sail’s expression stayed angry as his tone resembled no change, “good.” He turned away from the crew, “Now get back to work.”

Feeling uneasy by his announcement, the crew stood in confusion for a second until Pinpoint noticed their hesitation and called, “You got barnacles in your ears?!? Get back to work you scabless dogs!!!”
The crew quickly broke up as the crimson pirates quickly went back to their posts as Pinpoint made sure they each did as they were told. Then Pinpoint turned back to Captain Sail and saw the angry expression on his face, “captain?... are you okay?”
Captain Sails anger seemed to vanish without a trace as he smiled, “why wouldn’t I be?... the crew got the message, and I feel that the rumors and doubt will no longer be a problem.”
Siren asked, “so… that’s how a captain is meant to handle his crew?... Empty threats?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nothin’ empty ‘bout them… Mr. Point, ready the keelhaul rope, keelhaul that quartette, then hang ‘em back where they are.”

Siren was somewhat surprised, “You’re really goin’ to do it?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I am a captain of my word. They will be keelhauled and dropped in Pirate Cove…if they survive that is. Ever been keelhauled on a frigate sized ship?... it isn’t so much as torture, but closer to execution.”
Siren nodded as she remembered the keelhaul that she went through on the Iron Wing. As the hanging sailors were lowered to the deck, Captain Sail trotted to the lower deck and watched as his crew kept the ropes they were hanging from tied to their hind hooves and tied another rope to their front that was strung over the edge of the port side and came back up the starboard. As soon as the ropes were fastened, the four sailors were raised up by their hooves and hung over the port side, at eye level with Captain Sail as he spoke, “try not to scream when the barnacles cut ya… you might drown.”

As soon as that was said, the sailors attempted to plead for mercy as Captain Sail silently watched as the sailors were lowered head first into the waters below. With the ropes pulling the sailors under this ship, Captain Sail watched as Siren trotted up to him and spoke, “I’m kinda surprised you’re doing’ this.”
Captain Sail replied without concern, “a captain must tend to his crew, and in some cases, discipline them.”
Siren replied, “Yea… but the way you acted in Equestria made me see ya as soft. You didn’t kill any guards when we fled the dock, and didn’t stay to finish their ships either. All you did was use petty tricks and trinkets to get away from them. It was like you didn’t want to kill any of them.”

Captain Sail turned and started casually trotting to the other side of the ship, “If necessary I have no problem killin’ royal guards. However, I wanted to get away before news of our fight could reach somepony I know.”
“Your… Reaper?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Maybe once… but not anymore. As I left to find my prize, she stayed and found hers.”
Siren was curious, “So… your prize that you spoke of earlier… it’s Captain Iron Hoof isn’t it? Funny, I could have sworn you were flirtin’ with me earlier. I didn’t think you played for the other team.”
Captain Sail chuckled, “I’m not that kind of pirate lass… what I meant by prize, is that I want him to bleed. I want to see him burn upon his ship as it sinks to the bottom of the sea, by my cannon. That lass, is the real prize.”
Siren was curious, “oh… he did somethin’ to scorn you didn’t he? What was it? Did he steal your fortune? Or perhaps he sunk a ship belongin’ to your family… wait… did he kill anypony you know?”

Showing no sign that she was close to guessing his reason, Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Now, now lass… if you refuse to share a tale of your past with us… then why would I waste the time to share mine with you? After all, ya failed to mention your reason for goin’ after him either, nor did ya say anythin’ about where your crew or ship is set up at. Did you not introduce yourself as Captain when we first met? Takes more than charm and a hat to carry a title like that.”
Seeing what he was trying to do, annoyed Siren as she replied, “Just get me to the leviathan sea and I'll get you your prize… although it will all be for naught. My blade will be the one used to kill iron hoof.”
Refusing to continue the conversation, Siren turned and trotted towards the bow as the captain watched out the corner of his eye as he mumbled, “Then I guess we will race to take his life won’t we… game on lass.”

Just then the sound of coughing followed by moans and groans of pain were heard as Captain Sail looked over the ships railing to see the four imprisoned crewmates as their heads surfaced slowly above the water. As their bodies followed, a large number of exposed cuts were seen stretching along all four ponies as the deep lacerations bled and dripped from their bodies along with the salt water that they just emerged from. Moaning in pain the sailors were raised high enough for Captain Sail to look them over as he spoke, “Congrats gents… you four survived, and with cuts that didn’t need stitching’. Bravo, seems you have the luck of the sea on your side.”

Relived the torture was over, but still engulfed in pain, one of the sailors spoke, “Capt’n… please, I beg thee mercy. We swear we won’t do it again. Just please, don’t put us through any more.”
Captain Sail wasn’t moved, “I gave you all the mercy I had to offer. Otherwise, we’d be scrubbin’ these ropes to try to clean the gunpowder and your brains from the fibers. But since you said please… I'll show a slight bit more.” He turned to Pinpoint and the sailors beside him as he spoke, “Get these sailors a cup of fresh water then string ‘em back up. I don’t want them dehydratin’ before we get to the Cove.”
With the sailors following their orders, Captain Sail looked to the bow of the ship as he saw Siren watching Powder Keg and a few other sailors working on the damaged forecastle as he started trotting their way.

As Captain Sail reached the three steps leading to the forecastle he carefully trotted onto and across the damaged deck as he approached Siren who was watching Powder Keg repair a cannon plan. As he approached he spoke to the working stallion, “Can we save her Mr. Keg?”
Powder Keg looked back at Captain Sail as he nodded, “Aye capt’n. I hammered out the damage on the bore and there doesn’t seem to be any cracks in her. So all we have to do is repair the plan, and tie her back up. Sadly we can’t save her sunken sister.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, we are one gun down and less for wear. But once we meet Mr. Drib in the Cove we can get the Tide fixed up and ready for Iron Hoof.”
Powder Keg nodded, “good… and while we are repairin’ the Tide, I can stock up on plenty of supplies. I’m workin’ on a new gun that will be sure to heat things up… pardonin’ my pun.”

Captain Sail replied with a concerned look, “Ya won’t go overboard like you did with that fire ship idea will ya? We all remember what happened there.”
Siren was curious, “Fire ship?”
Powder Keg shrugged his shoulders, “it’s a small boat that is used as a suicide explosive. Sadly I loaded this one up with too much black powder, I didn’t intend to blow the entire man o’ war to pieces.”
Captain Sail sighed, “And yet, ya did… then the shockwave caused the hull of the Tide to rupture. And if that wasn’t bad enough, there was nothing left of the navy vessel to claim as a prize. Not even usable timber.”
Powder Keg smiled, “don’t worry captain, this new weapon doesn’t use an explosion. This one is all fire… literally.”
Captain Sail gave him a stern look as he replied, “fire… on a ship… in the sea… do ya not see the conundrum with using such a weapon?”

Powder Keg thought to himself for a second then replied, “So… no fire then?”
Captain Sail nodded, “I like your enthusiasm, but I'd prefer to salvage a prize, not burn it to a crisp.”
Powder Keg nodded as he replied, “Aye capt’n, I have a few other ideas in this head o’ mine. So I'll see if I can cook up a new idea for Captain Hoof in the meantime.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “You do that, but first thing is first, either get to the crow’s nest or get a gunner up there. We need gun repairs, but we still need to keep a lookout for the princess’s navy.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye captain, I'll get on it.”
with that Powder Keg started climbing up the ships Jacob’s Ladder as he passed the hanging sailors and spoke as he passed, “Hey, how ya doin’.”

As soon as Powder Keg was back in his post, Captain Sail and Siren started trotting back towards the upper deck as Captain Sail spoke, “You can wait with the helm lass, I’m goin’ below to check the rest of the damage. I know it’s hard for ya, but try to play nice till I get back… but not… too nice.”
With that, Captain Sail broke away from Siren as he trotted down the steps that lead him further into the Bloody Tide. As he disappeared from her sight, Siren started thinking to herself as she trotted up the steps to the upper deck while mumbling to herself, “Yea, yea… S’pose there is nothin’ better to do on Captain Sail’s ship… wait… Sail… Sail?…”
As she approached both Barge and Pinpoint who were manning the helm as she spoke, “Hey Mr. Paint or whatever… Captain Sail… how far is his pirate linage?”
Pinpoint replied with an annoyed tone, “The captain is the first of his generation to become a pirate, but he isn’t the first to sail the seas.”
Siren nodded, “so… does he have a brother or somethin’?”
Pinpoint replied with an uninterested tone, “None to speak of… Though I wouldn’t dwell too far into his private affairs if I were you. He told you and the rest of the crew all ya need to know earlier. Any further, then you’d be gettin’ into things that even I dare ask. Unless, you’d be willin’ to share a tale of your own in exchange?”

Annoyed that the subject seems to turn back on her quite often, she replied, “Fine… I only ask cuz I heard the name before. Or… at least I think I have.”
Pinpoint looked at the metal on her hooves and replied, “A fine fashion statement you’re makin’ with that clad... but… why make it?”
Deciding to give them something, she replied as she looked at her one of her hooves, “We all have our manner of loyalty. Don’t we Mr. Paint?”
Continuing to ignore the name she called him by, Pinpoint replied, “Aye… that we do.”
With tension building up between the two Captains Sail emerged from the lower decks as he called, “Bring in the foresails and release all rest! We need to relieve tension on the damage.”

Hearing the order, Pinpoint looked to his captain as the officer trotted onto the upper deck, “The foresail? Is the damage that bad?”
Captain Sail nodded, “aye, the foremast will need to be braced before we release the sails. Mr. Keg and his shot was much worse than we thought.”
Pinpoint smiled, “I warned you that hirin’ a weapon smith like him could have its risks. I always said, that colt’s been blown up one too many times to be right in the head.”
Captain Sail smiled, “a risk he may be, but for a crew as good as mine, he’s perfect. With him, none can challenge us. Not even a fool such as Iron hoof.”

As the two pirates chuckled at the comment, Siren didn’t seem as amused as she replied with a skeptic tone, “Aye… a pretty unique crew you have here captain. A trigger-happy gunner, A burly and strong helmscolt who… I’m still unsure if he is even a part of the crew, and a captain, who nary shows an expression in battle, not as much as a flinch when cannon or explosion take place around him.” She looks at Pinpoint as she smiled, “and what of his quartermaster?... what freakish skill do you hold?”
Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail as the captain raised his hoof in a manner as to say, go ahead. Then he looked back at Siren and replied, “I’m one of the most skilled sea artists and weather readers you’ll find on these seas.”
Expecting an answer like that made her look at Captain Sail as she nodded, “ah… a quartermaster, navigator and… what was that last one? Weather readers?... yea… I should have known, this crew of yours is closer to a circus act. And though you lot are amusing… you won’t last long against Captain Hoof or The Iron Wing.”

With no hesitation in her disrespectful tone, the mare turned to the steps leading to the main deck as Pinpoint asked, “Where are you off to?”
Siren replied, “I’m goin’ to take a caulk… wake me when we get there Mr. Weather Reader.”
Pinpoint was irritated as he started to speak, “What did you sa-”
Before he could finish, Captain Sail put his hoof on his shoulder as he spoke, “let her go Mr. Point. Perhaps after her nap she will be in better spirits. Her morale is bringin’ the crew down anyways.”
As the mare vanished into the lower deck, Pinpoint spoke, “I’m not sure what… but somethin’ set her off. She’ll be the death of us captain, mark my words. We should ditch her while we can.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye I agree… but regardless the lass knows where to find our prize, so we’ll be toleratin’ her till we get what we need.” He looked up at the battered, bruised, and now bleeding sailors hanging over the deck, as he thought to himself before continuing, “Mr. Point… you still have that contact in Pirate Cove? The Ship chronographer?”

Pinpoint nodded, “Aye, you’re referrin’ to Trip Ticket?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, Mr. Ticket… when we arrive in Pirate Cove I want you to speak with him on a matter, while I entertain the lass.”
Pinpoint was curious, “What matter is that captain?”
Captain Sail replied as he looked over the main deck, “I want to know about her ship the Lullaby? She says she is a captain, but nothin’ about her says that to be true. So, I need to know what happened to her ship. Before it comes back to bite us.”
Below deck Siren took a deep breath to calm herself as she mumbled quietly, “I know I shouldn’t get mad… but hearin’ that from him irritates me. Even if he isn’t talkin’ about my Iron Hoof… I better tread carefully. I can’t give myself away until after I get the chance to kill him. Otherwise, I'll have to kill ‘em both.”

Ch7 A Pirate's Name

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Captain Sail placed his hat on his head as he looked in a mirror and straightened it. Then like usual he turned to the double doors of his cabin as he exited the room and stepped onto the main deck of his ship. As soon as he was outside, Captain Sail could see Powder Keg and a few other sailors lowering the disgraced sailors from the yardarm as Powder Keg turned to his captain and called, “Capt’n on deck!”
Nodding to his sailor Captain Sail spoke, “as you were… how are they?”
Powder Keg looked at the dehydrated sailors as they reached the deck and fell over with fatigue, “little worse for wear, but still alive.”

Without concern Captain Sail nodded, “Good… then gather their belongings and drop them on the dock. I don’t want to see them aboard my ship ever again.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’n.”
As Powder Keg and a few other sailors followed their orders, Captain Sail looked just past the gangplank as he saw Mr. Drib, Pinpoint, and Barge talking on the dock. As Captain Sail stepped off his ship and onto the Pirate Cove Docks, the trio saw him as Mr. Drib smiled, “Well if it isn’t my favorite customer.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Any payin’ customer is your favorite customer Mr. Drib.”

Mister Drib nodded, “And yet my earlier statement remains true. Got some good news for ya, since you’re providing me with a shipwright to help with repairs, I’ve agreed to give you a ten… five percent discount. What do ya say?”
Captain Sail smiled sarcastically, “I s’pose a second ago it was twenty, aye?”
Mr. Drib shrugged his shoulders, “Well, you know, inflation, bad economy, etcetera, etcetera. Do we have a deal?”
Captain Sail asked, “You say we are providin’ ya with a shipwright?”
Barge nodded, “Aye captain, since there is no place for me back in Equestria, I decided to stay here in the Cove and work for Mr. Drib as a shipwright. Since he already provides repair supplies, a shipwright will no doubt double his profits. After all, I was a shipwright for Mr. Sail back in the day.”

Captain Sail replied, “Shame, I was hopin’ you’d come back to the crew permanently, but I s’pose we must all make our own way.”
Barge nodded, “Don’t get me wrong captain, I would love to accept a generous offer such as that, but my piratin’ days are behind me. Best for me to settle in and do some honest work for a change.”
Captain Sail chuckled, “Well then you’re workin’ for the wrong pony for that lad. Mr. Drib’s a bigger thief than I.”
Mr. Drib smiled, “I don’t steal the goods captain, I just overprice what I sell. Speaking of which, are we at an agreement of two percent off?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Ten… and not a bit less.”

Drib shrugged his shoulders, “Done. I'll patch the Tide up and have her ready for you in the morning.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… and throw an extra ten pounder in while you’re at it. Then it will be an even accord.”
Drib sighed in disappointment, “Aye, Captain. Be grateful I have a nice wager on you findin’ your ghost. I’m not as friendly to my other clients.”
Captain Sail nodded, “ya are when they are starin’ ya in the face.”
Drib nodded, “as said before, my earlier statement remains true.” He looked at Barge, “Mr. Barge, feel free to get started as soon as you’re ready. If ya need it ask Johnny for help, the young lad could learn a thing or two about repairs.”
Barge nodded, “Aye sir. I'll get right on it.”

As Barge and Mr. Drib started trotting towards a wagon full of lumber for the repairs, Captain Sail looked at Pinpoint and asked, “Where is the lass?”
Pinpoint replied, “She wandered off about half an hour ago. Guessin’ she is in the town somewhere.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Alright, see to the business we discussed yesterday and find me as soon as you’re done. I'll go into the town and search for her. By my guess she’s in one of the pubs connin’ some sap out of somethin’.”
Pinpoint nodded, “aye Captain I'll find you when I’m done.”
With that, Pinpoint trotted off the dock and into the town as Captain Sail called, “Mr. Keg! I'll leave the Tide in your care. If you chose to go ashore, gather a security detail.”
Powder Keg looked at Captain Sail from aboard the tide as he called back, “Aye, aye Capt’n!”

With his ship’s security now handled, Captain Sail trotted into the town of wooden ships as he decided to try checking the local pubs for Siren. Before he reached the first one, he started hearing yelling coming from an alley as they argued, “What did you call me, rook?”
“You heard me bird brain! Now back off before I make you!”
Curious, Captain Sail entered the alley as he saw Siren glaring at a parrot pirate as she spoke, “You might want to recognize your betters… or else you’ll get yourself hurt little pony.”
Siren replied in anger, “Better?... a sky pirate? Please! No parrot with her head in the clouds can even consider herself close to a better of mine.”
The parrot replied, “And no rookie who has yet to earn her name can say anything about what a real pirate is!”

Seeing that the two were locked in an argument, Captain Sail cleared his throat loud enough to get their attention as he smiled, “am I interrupting anythin’?”
The parrot looked to Captain Sail as she smiled, “Well, well… if it isn’t the Crimson Ghost Hunter… Care to step in? I’m about to teach this rook a lesson about what happens when you cross a real pirate.
Captain Sail smiled, “Captain Celaeno, as much as I’m always willin’ to jump in to a fight alongside ya. I’m afraid I can’t against this lass. But if you promise not to kill her, I'd be happy to watch.”
Siren gave Captain Sail an angry look, as Captain Celaeno gave him a confused one, “What?... Don’t tell me that you and this rookie are an item?”
Siren sighed in hopelessness, “Ha!… He wishes.”
Captain Sail replied, “She and I have an accord that is currently in the works, that’s all.”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “I see… so she is a part of your crew then?”
Siren replied in anger, “I am a captain, thank you very much! And I would ask that you don’t associate me with any part of his crew.”

Captain Celaeno replied with an annoyed tone, “Oh… I see… so you are a rookie pirate.”
Siren continued with her still angry tone, “I’M NO ROOKIE!!! I’ve been sailin’ since I was a filly.”
Captain Celaeno shrugged her shoulders, “Well I don’t recognize you, nor have I ever heard of you, and if you don’t have a name… then officially you’re a rook. Plain and simple.”
Siren was confused, “Name?”
Captain Sail explained, “Lass… here on Pirate Cove, you ain’t a pirate unless you either earn a name, or sail under a captain who’s earned one. For example, the lass standin’ next to ya is The Harpy Pirate, Captain Celaeno. Her dad is known as Hawk the Father Pirate, and I’m The Crimson Ghost Hunter.”
Siren wasn’t amused, “Fancy names… did ya make them up yourselves?”
Captain Celaeno chuckled, “Nah, the rest of the Cove makes the names. Each name made to resemble the type of pirate you are, your main goal as a pirate, something about your personality, and so on.”

Captain Sail nodded, “aye. And you will meet a lot of different types of pirates on this Cove, there is Cannon Ball Jack, One Eyed Will, Teacher Ticket, you name ‘em. We each earn a name when we do somethin’ that classes us as a professional pirate.”
Siren was confused, “Really?... and what did you do?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I stole property belongin’ to a deity… My very ship, The Bloody Tide.”
Captain Celaeno added, “Me, I pillaged and plundered with my father when I was just a hatchling. I had already robbed a hundred air ships before I was even in my teen years.”
Captain Sail nodded as he trotted closer to the two, “Fame isn’t everythin’, but here, it might as well be. Either way.” He held out his hoof, “It’s good to see ya lass, when old Hawk told me that you became a captain, I knew it would be of the sky.”

Captain Celaeno reached up and shook his hoof as she replied, “Ya can’t keep a sky pirate grounded for long. It’s good to see you Sail. And since you’re vouchin’ for this disrespectful rook, I s’pose I can overlook her comment… for now.”
Captain Sail asked, “And what was it she said?”
Siren replied with a disrespectful tone, “That a sky pirate is nothin’ more than a pirate that is afraid of the sea.”
Captain Sail chuckled a little at the comment as Captain Celaeno gave him an angry look. Seeing her look, Captain Sail calmed his laughter as he replied, “And sea pirates are afraid of heights. So what?”
Captain Celaeno’s angry look faded into a chuckle of her own as Captain Sail added, “It’s not the horizon we sail, it’s the way we sail it that makes the difference.”

Siren gave him a confused look, as Captain Sail noticed her confusion as replied, “Wait… you mean you don’t know what truly makes a pirate lass?”
Siren replied, “I know what makes a good pirate. It’s the loot he steals and the legend he makes.”
Both Sail and Celaeno gave her a confused look as Captain Sail replied, “uh… no… you seriously don’t know?”
Siren tried to think of something to say to change her answer as Captain Celaeno replied, “The looting and legend is nice… but what makes a good pirate is a scallywag who lives by the freedom of the sky… and sea.”
Captain Sail smiled, “aye… the best thing about a pirate is freedom. No countries to bind us. No morality of a nation to abide by. To be truly free to sail as you please, that is what makes a good pirate. And let’s not forget…”

Captain Sail looked at Captain Celaeno with a suggestive look as she smiled and nodded as they both spoke at the same time, “Freedom of a good drink!”
Siren felt a little confused as they both turned to the road as they started to leave her behind. As they left, Captain Sail spoke, “So… that air ship on the south sky docks, is that one yours?”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “Yep ain’t she beautiful. She and my crew just came in from the north.”
As the two captain left Siren alone, Siren got annoyed as she called before chasing after them, “Hey! We ain’t done here!”
Captain Sail nodded, “Then come on! We can finish this matter over a good drink and some merry makin’, how bout’ it Captain?
Captain Celaeno smiled, “You took the words right out of my mouth.”

Elsewhere on the Cove, Pinpoint was trotting to a large building made up from the stern of what used to be a royal galleon. As Pinpoint entered the building, he saw an elderly stallion sitting at a desk in the center of the room with bookshelves lining the walls. As Pinpoint approached the desk, he spoke, “Mr. Ticket?”
The elderly stallion continued sitting with his head tilted down looking into a book with a glare of his glasses covering his eyes from Pinpoint’s view. Thinking that the older stallion didn’t hear him, he repeated, “Mr. Ticket? Hello?”
The stallion continued sitting still with his face looking into a book as Pinpoint nudged his shoulder, “Trip Ticket.”
As soon as the old stallion was touched, the elderly unicorn fell forward into the book as the thickness of the books pages cushioned his fall leaving Pinpoint to sigh in hopelessness, “Sleepin’ at work… that’s Teacher Ticket for ya.”

With that the annoyed quartermaster picked up the elderly pony’s head so he could pull the book out from under him and close it. However right after the book thumped shut, Trip Ticket opened his eyes and looked up to his guest as he spoke with an irritated tone, “Ain’t cha’ got any manners? I was readin’ that ya know.”
Pinpoint replied, “Sure ya were, I didn’t know you could read through your eyelids.”
The older pony adjusted his glasses, “Takes years of practice, you’ll get there some day… now, what can I do for ya Gale? Ain’t seen you in a number of years.”
Pinpoint placed the book on a shelf as he replied, “I ain’t Gale ya old coot. He’s been dead for about three years.”

Trip Ticket nodded, “Aye… that’s right, got himself a black widow he did. Offed him in his sleep, took all he had, and left him to rot. Poor fool didn’t see it comin’… though I could have guessed it from the sight of her.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “No, he got caught by the Griffin Royal Navy and is now dancing the hempen gig.”
Trip shook his head, “Nah, he ain’t been much for dancin’. Had three left hooves if ya catch my drift.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “I’m not talkin’ about an actual dance, what I’m sayin’ is they hung him for pira… ya know what? Never mind…” Pinpoint could only rub his head in irritation as he mumbled to himself “Senile old fool.”
Trip Ticket replied, “Who ya callin’ fool, fool? Do ya need my help or don’t ya?”
Pinpoint sighed “I do.”
“Ya darn tootin’, now what can a do ya for Gale?”
Pinpoint replied, “No, it’s me Pin… Pinpoint? I was your student for three years... I came here so you can help me find records of a ship.”

Trip Ticket thought to himself as he trotted to one of the book shelves in the side of the room, “hmm… nope ain’t heard of a ship called the Pinpoint… I know a scurvy old student of mine that was named Pinpoint, but there ain’t no tellin’ what that pipsqueak’s gotten himself into since I last saw him.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “I’m Pinpoint! I’m lookin’ for a pirate ship called the Lullaby.”
The old stallion started looking through the bookshelf of logs as he replied, “nah, the sentiments are appreciated, but I don’t need ya to sing me a lullaby. I may be old but I ain’t no foal. But if ya happen to come across Pinpoint, tell him I said hi. Taught him everythin’ I know about the sea, used to call the lad Penny-Whistle. Ah those were the days.”

Pinpoint gave him a dull look as he replied, “Kay… first off, ya never called me that. Second, don’t ever call me that… and third, don’t tell other ponies ya called me that.”
The old pony took a book from the shelf and trotted back to his seat as he opened it up and replied, “Well if you’re here to sing me a Lullaby then get on with it… as you can see I’m a busy stallion with many clients to attend to.”
Pinpoint looked through the empty building as he thought to himself, “yea… I’m sure ya do…” He looked back at Trip Ticket, “look, I’m only here for any logs you have on a pirate ship called the Lullaby. Do you have it or don’t ya?”
Pinpoint waited for a reply, but it wasn’t long before he realized that the elderly stallion passed back out as Pinpoint sighed, “This is pointless... looks like you finally reached the edge of your sanity ya old coot.”
As Pinpoint turned to leave, he heard Trip Ticket talk, “Second self, fourth row, seventh book, page five, third log. She’s an old book, but you’ll find what you’re lookin’ for there.”

Doing what he was told, Pinpoint trotted to the book shelf as he started counting the rows and books in his head. As soon as he pulled the book from the shelf, Trip Ticket whose eyes were in his book, spoke up, “Fourth row from the bottom… ya young fool.”
As Pinpoint looked back to the shelf, he put back the book he took and recounted as he took out the right book and started flipping through the pages. When he got to the page he felt confused, “This is the ship… but the date is-”
Before he could finish, Trip Ticket spoke up, “So you’re on your way to the Leviathan Seas are ya? Dangerous waters they are… word is nopony has ever sailed them before. Far too afraid of the Titan who rules those seas.”

Confused, Pinpoint looked up at the elderly pony as Trip Ticket peeked out the corner of his glasses at his old student. With a confused glance, Pinpoint asked, “H-how?...”
Trip Ticket laid the book he was reading down on his desk as he flipped it around so Pinpoint could see it as he replied, “I never taught you ‘bout those waters… S’pose it’s time I did.”
Concerned, Pinpoint closed the log in his hoof as he trotted to his old teacher’s desk and looked at the page, “a sea chart of the Leviathan Seas? And… islands?”
Trip Ticket nodded, “Aye… hoof drawn and the only one in existence… it’s time ya learn what’s there… and why I have so much money bettin’ on your captain findin’ his ghost.”

Later, Captain Sail, Captain Celaeno, and Siren were sitting in a pub as they each enjoyed their mugs of rum as Siren and Captain Sail both laughed out loud as Captain Celaeno continued her story, “So as he tried to call out his instructions, Jack raised his wing up high, but as he started to call out, a cannonball flew in from behind and wiped his wing clean off turning his call into a screams and swears!”
The whole room laughed as Captain Sail tried to speak between breaths, “so now… so now. I’m sittin’ on the Tide right beside his ship and Hawk’s crew hovered over him waitin’ on what he was planning on doin’ while he jumped around on his ship yellin’ every curse word he could think of while navy vessels fired on us!”

Captain Celaeno continued, “So now to keep things moving, I had to slide down there on a rope and take over his ship while his surgeons dragged the angry griffin into his cabin as he screamin’ curse words at everything around him, and when he ran out of words to scream he started making some up.”
The room continued laughing as Captain Sail added, “to this day I still can’t tell ya what a flatter-hoist is… but whatever it is, it must be bad since he yelled it six times.”
Captain Celaeno spoke through her laughter, “and to this day that’s why his nickname is Cannon Ball Jack.”
Siren laughed as she replied, “well it could be worse. You could start calling him Flatter Hoist Jack.”
Captain Sail and Captain Celaeno laughed even louder as Captain Sail replied, “The funniest part of that whole story… we got away, and he was the only one on all three of our ships that had any injuries.”
The room continued in their laughter as Captain Celaeno leaned on Siren’s shoulder and spoke to Captain Sail, “I got to say captain… you found a ringer with this one. You should really try to get with this one, she’s perfect for you.”

Siren continued her laughter as she added, “If the Captain could catch a mare like me, he’d probably have his ghost by now.”
In their drunken stupor, the entire room exploded in another fit of laughter as the room slowly died down leaving Captain Celaeno to speak next, “It’s good catching up Sail. I crossed paths with mt dad not long ago. Says he showed you what for last time he was here.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Did he now?… Guess he mistook me for a keg of rum.”
Celaeno laughed, “I don’t think so, a keg hits him harder then you ever could.”
The three pirates continued laughing as Captain Sail looked across the room to see Pinpoint trot in and stand at the door of the pub. As soon as he saw his quartermaster, he slowed his laughter as he spoke, “Well it’s been fun lasses, but it appears I have work to tend to. Feel free to return to the ship whenever you’re ready lass, we won’t be leavin’ without ya.”

With no concern, Siren smiled, “yea, yea, just don’t wait up for me.”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “Take it easy captain. Hopefully next time we see each other you will have your ghost caught and killed.”
Siren shook her head and replied with a slight slur, “no, no, no… I'll be the one who kills that ghost, but he’s welcome to try.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Noted, if you will excuse me lasses.”
With that Captain Sail trotted to Pinpoint as they both made their way out of the pub. Once they were gone, Captain Celaeno looked at Siren and spoke, “So… can I ask you a question. Just between us girls?”

With a careless gesture, Siren replied as she held up her mug, “To be a pirate is to be free right? Ask away.”
Captain Celaeno replied with a sinister smile, “What is Captain Sail to you?”
Without hesitation, Siren took a drink of her drink and replied “That’s an easy one… he’s just a means to an end.”
Captain Celaeno was unsure of the answer, “Care to elaborate?”
Siren replied, “Sure… I need him to get me to Iron Hoof, and he needs me to find Iron Hoof. So we are just using each other till we get what we need. Then we are goin’ to go our separate ways.”
Understanding but not happy about the answer, Captain Celaeno replied, “uh huh… and that’s it?”
Siren nodded, “what else is there?”

Captain Celaeno nodded as she spoke with a serious tone, “so… there isn’t anything… special, going on between you two?”
Siren waved her hoof in a dismissive way, “No… and if there was… I could do better.”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “I see…”
Siren noticed her tone as she asked, “why?... is there somethin’ special between you two?”
The parrot pirate shook her head as she replied, “Of course not. Captain Sail is like an older brother to me.”
Siren nodded as she took a drink, “Then why do you care?”

Captain Celaeno replied, “Captain Sail… has always been calm, cool, and collected. I never understood it, but it’s as if he has figured the world out and has always played it right into his hooves. He never panics, he’s always confident, and no matter the risk, he always seems like he has everything under control… but… tonight, I saw a part of him that is… unsure.”
“What?...”
Captain Celaeno continued, “I don’t know what it is… but… he seem like something is on his mind. Something… about you.”
Siren was confused, “really?…”
Celaeno nodded head, “Captain Sail looks like he is trying to solve a problem… like there is a riddle in his head that he wants to solve so badly that he is ignoring everything eles. And for the first time ever, he seems stumped.”

Siren nodded as she ran her hoof along the rim of her mug, “If he is the pirate I know he is, he is annoyed that I won’t tell him more about Iron Hoof and he’s tryin’ to understand it on his own. Let’s face it, Captain Sail has an ego. He can act all he wants, but I can see right through him.”
Captain Celaeno nodded as she replied, “I don’t know about an ego… but appearances are very important to a pirate captain. Being captain means gaining trust from our crew, but to be a pirate captain means just a little more. Gaining trust from a group of untrustworthy scallywags isn’t as easy as he makes it look.”
Siren asked, “So… is Captain Sail really as good as they say?”
Captain Celaeno smiled, “I’m good, ask anyone around and they will tell you that in the sky, I’m in control. As for Captain Sail, He is just as good, if not better on the sea. I can’t think of no finer officer to sail under.”
Siren smiled, “Good, then I can expect to get what I’m after so long as I remain on his ship.”

Captain Celaeno Nodded, “ya know what… I think I’m gonna give you a name. Right here and now.”
Siren gave her a sarcastic look, “I thought I had to earn it?”
Captain Celaeno smiled, “If what you and the captain said is true, then you already did. Escaping from a ghost ship… it’s a tale of adventure as if I ever heard.”
Siren could tell that the rum was starting to get to her friend as she smiled, “okay… well… what did you have in mind?”
Captain Celaeno thought to herself, “Hmm… let’s think… Ah I got it! The Siren of the Cove!”
Siren was confused, “Siren of the Cove?”
“No, no, no, THE Siren of the Cove.”

Siren gave Captain Celaeno a strange look, “The Siren?... what am I a ship?”
Captain Celaeno laughed as she replied, “No… it’s The Siren because of the folklore.”
“What?”
Captain Celaeno took a drink of her rum then replied, “Have you ever heard of the Sirens of the Sea?”
Siren nodded, “Aye… that’s what I was named after.”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “Then you get where I’m going with this. Sirens were said to be the most beautiful creatures on the sea. Their beauty along with their song could lure even the most rugged scallywags to their deaths. And you… are Pirate Cove’s personal Siren.”

Siren thought to herself as she replied, “Well… when you put it like that… I kinda like it. I have lured more than a few sailors to their deaths, so it fits.”
Captain Celaeno smiled as she held up her mug, “Then there you have it… that’s your name from here on out. Congratulations you’re officially a scallywag of Pirate Cove.”
Siren raised her mug for the toast as she replied, “Then I'll carry the name with pride.”
As the two mugs taped together, Captain Celaeno added, “But I'll warn you… if you try luring Captain Sail to his doom… then it won’t end well for you.”
Confused by the strange comment, Siren asked, “Really?... and why is that?”

Captain Celaeno’s expression became a little more serious, “I told you… he’s like a brother to me… so if you hurt him… either physically, or by breaking his heart.” She leaned in close and continued with an angry tone, “I'll hunt you down and drop you in the nearest active volcano… catch my drift?”
Siren took the threat as words weaved with rum as she ignored both the threat, and the comment about breaking his heart as she replied, “Sure… I'll keep that in mind.”
Then as if the threat never took place, Captain Celaeno leaned away, threw her arm around Siren, as she smiled, “I tell ya, we are gonna be the best of friends you and I.”
Siren rolled her eyes, “Wow… I think you’ve had enough.”
The parrot raised her mug, “Maybe you’re right… we’ll discuss this over another mug of grog.”

Moments ago outside the pub, Captain Sail and Pinpoint stood in a dark alley as Captain Sail asked, “So Mr. Point? How’s old Trip Ticket doing these days?”
Pinpoint sighed, “Still trottin’ the line between senile and wise. But all in all I’m sure he can’t complain, seein’ that he can barely remember who he’s talkin’ to long enough to bring it up.”
Captain Sail smiled, “so, what did you find out about the lass’s ship?”
Pinpoint replied, “Well… here’s the thing, there is no such pirate ship called the Lullaby.”
Captain Sail nodded, “so… she lied to us?”
Pinpoint shook his head, “Well… not exactly. There is a ship by that name, but it doesn’t belong to a Captain Siren… It belongs to a Commodore Chrysanthemum.”

Captain Sail was confused, “Commodore?”
“Aye… it’s a Prench Royal Navy man o’ war.”
Captain Sail thought to himself before replying, “Strange… I’m not familiar with his name.”
“Hers… Commodore Chrysanthemum was a mare known mostly for huntin’ pirates.”
Captain Sail smiled as if he figured it out, “that’s it… The lass must have killed her and taken her ship for her own. Or more likely, the lass could be this Chrysanthemum and went rough. It’s not uncommon for navy officers to turn pirate.”
Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “True… but in this case it’s very unlikely.”
Captain Sail was curious, “is it?... how so?”
Pinpoint replied, “Cuz both the Lullaby and her captain were reported sunk… just off the coast of the griffin kingdoms.”
“Really?... when did she go down?”
Pinpoint replied with a serious tone, “Over three hundred years ago.”

Ch8 All-o-Way

View Online

Captain Sail sat in deep thought, as he looked over the main deck of his ship from the helm. Although his eyes panned over the entire ship, his mind was entirely fixated on Siren as she leaned in a corner between a cannon and the starboard railing on the main deck looking into the sea while enjoying the peaceful breeze. As he sat in thought, his mind continued repeating the conversation he had with Pinpoint the night before as he remembers himself speaking, “Three hundred?... that’s impossible.”
Pinpoint shrugged his shoulders, “All that means is that a ship did exist. That doesn’t mean she was a captain. It’s still possible she’s makin’ the whole story up.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… all we can do is watch her. I don’t know who she is, or if we can trust her… but till we know for sure, it’d be best to keep our eye on her.”

With this conversation in his mind, Captain Sail continued watching the mare on the main deck as Pinpoint trotted up to him and spoke, “Captain…”
Captain Sail nodded, “Everythin’ good Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Aye… that is unless you count what’s waitin’ for us towards our destination.”
Captain Sail glanced at his quartermaster from the corner of his eye, “Aye… the Leviathan… the last titan of the old stories.”
Pinpoint nodded, “And the only reason sailors never venture into those waters.”
Captain Sail nodded, “If the lass says we should go that way, then that’s what we will do. Iron hoof is her target, so that’s where she’ll lead us.”

Pinpoint looked at Siren from the top deck as he replied, “Can we trust her? We still know nothin’ about her.”
Captain Sail nodded, “We can’t, but the fire in her eyes when she spoke of killin’ Iron Hoof is true. She wouldn’t lead us into danger if she didn’t know a way to survive it. All we can do is watch her and if she tries anything, we will do what must be done.”
Pinpoint nodded as he started to reply, “I s’pose your right capt-”
Before he could finish, both Captain Sail and Pinpoint noticed that Siren’s expression turned from peaceful to surprised as she stood up and looked out to what caught her attention. Seeing this, Captain Sail and Pinpoint looked out to sea just as Powder Keg called from the crow’s nest, “Ship off the starboard! No colors! Properly set adrift!”

As most of the crew looked to the ship Pinpoint spoke, “A caravel… no sail, no colors, she’s a baiter if I ever saw one.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… and if she is a baiter, then we aren’t safe here.”
Captain Sail called out, “ALL HOOVES TO STATIONS!” he looked at a sailor, “you! Get in the crow’s nest and keep a lookout”
the sailor nodded, “Aye Captain”
Captain Sail then called to the crow’s nest, “Mr. Keg! Get your plot down here and ready the guns! Standard fightin’ load!”
Mr. Keg nodded, “Aye capt’n!”
As Powder Keg slide down a rope to the main deck, “Siren made her way through all the hastily working sailors to the top deck with Captain Sail, “Captain? What’s wrong?”

Captain Sail replied as he watched his crew prepare, “That’s a baiter… a ship striped to lure in pirates.”
Siren asked, “To lure us in?... for what?”
Captain Sail replied, “For the hunters.”
Pinpoint nodded, “it’s an old pirate hunter trick. Set up an easy pilagin’ target for pirates and when they get close enough, close in for the kill.”
At that moment, the sailor climbing up to the crow’s nest called out, “Captain! Two masts spotted! A brig on our bow and anouther on our stern! The second looks to be a frigate!”
Captain Sail took out a spyglass as he looked to the frigate behind them, then lowered it briefly as to turn around and look to the smaller brig in the front. After looking at the approaching threat, Captain Sail gave his spyglass to Pinpoint as he replied, “Aye… just as we thought. Pirates hunters, see their colors?”

Pinpoint nodded as he looked at the closest ship, “Aye… Blue with red crossed sabers. They ain’t amateurs, must be free agents. And it looks like they are raising another flag. … Red.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Red?... so they don’t plan to take any quarter. That’s odd.”
Pinpoint nodded as he lowered the spyglass, “Aye… that means either this is a target for hire, or somthin’ personal.”
Captain Sail replied as he turned to look over his ship, “Whatever it is… it’s a fight to the death.” He called over his ship, “All hooves prepare for battle! Strike the colors and add a red flag! If they aim to take no quarter, then we will do the same! NO PREY!!!”
The crew called in response, “NO PAY!!!”

With that call and a quickened step, the crew rushed to follow their orders as the sailor in the crow’s nest rose the Crimson Pirates’ Jolly Roger and a solid red flag below it. With the two flags raised Siren approached Captain Sail as she spoke with a smirk, “Two pirate hunter ships, do you think you can take them both captain?”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “If you’re willin’ to see, then join me. It should be a fun change a’ pace.”
Captain Sail took out Siren’s dagger and tossed it to her as she caught it and smiled before sheathing it in her vest, “You know me too well captain, I’m always willing to have fun.”
Captain Sail smiled, “good, then go help Mr. Keg ready the cannon.”
Siren nodded, “Aye, aye captain.”

As Siren trotted down to help Powder Keg’s gun crew, Captain Sail looked at the helms colt, “the ship on our bow is closest, so bring her to our starboard side so we can line up our shot.”
The helms colt nodded as he turned the Tide so that the ship on the front was now lined up for the starboard cannons. With that, Captain Sail called to Powder Keg, “Mr. Keg! Are all cannon ready?”
Powder Keg called back, “Aye they are capt’n. All solid shot.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Good! Now get on the howitzer! I’m leavin’ it in your control to use as you please, I want you to turn our two attackers into one… get my drift?”

Powder Keg smiled in his sinister way, “Aye capt’n I got ya.”
With that Powder Keg looked to a few of his gun crew, “Go below and ready the howitzer! I want her raised and ready immediately!”
The sailors nodded as one replied, “Aye sir.”
After that Powder Keg trotted to the forecastle as he opened a large set of trap doors as the sailors below cranked up a large howitzer up till it was flush with the foredeck. Moving quickly, Powder Keg turned the howitzer towards the front starboard side of the ship and started loading it.

While Powder Keg readied their long range weapon, Captain Sail looked to the closer enemy ship as it too turned to line up their shots while Captain Sail ordered, “Ready!... FIRE!!!”
At that moment, both the enemy brig and the Bloody Tide, jerked with the recoil their cannons as both ships sent a hail of cannon balls at one anouther filling the air between the two with smoke from the cannons. Less than a split second later, both ship were bombarded that very hail of solid cannon balls, as the crew of both vessels scrambled for safety while staying ready for their captain’s orders. As the enemy cannon fire colligated with the Tide, splintering wood and heavy shockwaves caused a number of sailors to fall to the deck as Captain Sail held his ground and called, “Surgeon! Tend to the wounded! All others, keep her steady and make ready for the next attack! She ain’t sunk yet lads!”

As that was called, Powder Keg had just finished dropping in the explosive shell as he adjusted the angle and called, “FIRE ON THE HOLE!!!”
With that the large caliber howitzer fired off causing the ship to jerk again, this time downwards as the explosive shell now with a lit fuse flew through the air and vanished into the distance. Captain Sail and Siren looked to the same ship that they had just fired on a second ago, as the heavy iron projectile crashed down and punched through the bow’s deck of the enamy ship followed only a brief moment of silence. After the moment passed, the entire bow of the pirate hunter’s ship bubbled outward before exploding completely as the stem of the enamy ship splintered off with the ships movement before dipping downward and being pulled under the rest of the vessel by the heavy current. With that one shot proving to be the kill shot, the enemy brig’s mast slowly crumbled and fell over the rest of the vessel as its attack speed, quickly slowed to a splintering and sinking stop.

Seeing the enemy vessel sinking in the distance, Captain Sail called, “She’s taking on water! Well done lads!”
The crew cheered in excitement, but before they could claim victory, Pinpoint called, “Captain! The other ship is upon us!”
As soon as the call was heard, everypony looked to the enemy frigate as it started closing in at ramming speed. Reacting out of impulse, Pinpoint pushed the helms colt out of the way as he quickly turned the ship so that the approaching vessel would hit them at a diagonal angle instead of a direct one. As the enemy ship closed, Captain Sail took the opportunity to call, “All sailors! Bring in the cannon and prepare the hooks! We are gonna drag her in for a close kill!”
After the order was called, the crew quickly rushed to prepare for a close quarters battle as even Pinpoint grabbed onto a grappling hook and trotted back down to the main deck to prepare to hook the enemy ship.

Although the enemy ship wasn’t in a position to hit the Tide as hard as it was intending, The two vessels did collide as the portside bow of the pirate hunters’ ship hit then grinded against the portside of the Bloody Tide as grappling hooks from both vessel were thrown as the two ships grinded against one another while heading in opposite directions. As the cluster of grappling hooks locked onto the conflicting ships, the two vessels came to an abrupt and rough stop as crew from both ships jumped and swung over onto the opposing vessels. As the two engaged in close combat, Siren sprang into action as she drew her dagger and charged in making every strike, jab, and slice of her dagger accurate and lethal. As Captain Sail saw the mare’s deadly fighting, he could only feel confident in their odds as he trotted to one of her fallen victims, picked up the dead sailor’s sword and called, “Don’t let the lass outshine ya lads! ATTACK!!!”

Working to join the fight, Powder Keg attached a bayonet to the end of his musket as he used his weapon as a heavy spear while saving his loaded shot for whatever he may face. As the crew’s fought an enemy sailor wearing a brown captain’s hat and cap stood on the opposing ship’s upper deck as he called, “Captain Crimson Sail!!! I’m callin’ you out!”
Hearing the threat Captain Sail jumped onto a cannon as he called in response, “Are ya now! I’m afraid I don’t know ya lad… exactly what bone do ya have to pick with me?”
The enemy captain replied, “My employer is payin’ a fine bit to take your head back to Equestria. In fact… he is somewhere aboard my ship, overseeing this collection personally.”
Captain Sail smiled as he casually stepped off the canon and onto the connected railings of the two ships, “Then where is he?...” he looked over the fighting sailors, “Make yourself known lad! That way we can settle this like real sailors!”

The opposing captain replied, “Save your breath captain… the pony your callin’ for is a lubber… barley seen the sea let alone sailed it. Sides… He hired me to do this job, so I aim to see it through.”
Captain Sail stepped down from the railing onto the pirate hunter’s main deck as he replied, “Now ain’t that rather unfair?... ya ask me to surrender my life, while the pony who wants me dead hides?... maybe… we can settle this in our own way…”
He Turned back to the fighting crews as he called, “Crimson Pirates!!! Steady your blades!!!”
Quickly reacting to the unexpected order, the pirates hunter’s captain called, “Same for the Kray Hunters! Cease the fight and sheath your blades!”

Slowly the two crews of pirate and hunters stopped fighting as they all started paying attention to the two captain as Captain Sail looked to his opponent and called, “What’s your name lad?”
The pirate hunter replied, “Captain Kray, of the Atlantian Sea.”
Captain Sail replied, “Well Captain Kray… I think that my head is a little more valuable if it’s fully intact, so how bout we settle this my way.”
Captain Kray was intrigued, “Your way… and that is?”
Captain Sail smiled sinisterly, “A duel… I'll choose one from my crew, and you are free to choose yours. When one of our choices are no longer of this earth, the fight is over.”

The Pirate hunter was skeptic, “Really… so I’m assuming you won’t be fightin’ then?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Well I'd like to… but then again, I’m the prize if your fighter wins. So, simple planning would agree that I’d be a much more profitable prize if I lived. Then again if ya want my head at a quarter of its value, then feel free to risk it.”
Captain Kray thought to himself as he replied, “I s’pose not… fine, so what are the terms?”
Captain Sail smiled, “If your fighter wins, I surrender myself, my crew, and the Tide to you and yours. All together, it should be well more than three quarters of a million bits in value, depending of course if my bounty went up after that fiasco in Equestria.”
The pirate hunter crew smiled at the value of their prize, however, Captain Kray wasn’t so trusting as he trotted town onto the main deck where Captain Sail was talking from and replied, “Aye… but what if you win… what is it you want out of this?”

Captain Sail smiled, “If my fighter wins, my crew will pillage your ship, collecting everything that has value or can be sold as such, leavin’ only enough food to return to the closest port. I'll even grant your crew permission to leave with their lives intact. So… do we have an accord?”
Captain Kray thought to himself before replying to the offer, “I accept your offer, but I'll be the one fightin’ this dual. Call your fighter out here, captain.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good then… my fighter will be my third in command.”
Kray replied, “Alright… where is he? Bring him forth so we may begin.”
Captain Sail smiled sinisterly, “We already begun… Mr. Keg!”
Captain Sail’s smile didn’t fade as he sat and waited as all other ponies looked back towards the Bloody Tide as they saw Powder Keg standing on a barrel with his musket raised and aimed directly at Captain Kray.

Then, as expected from all who saw him, a flash of smoke and light was seen as the musket went off echoing over the silence of both crews leaving the ninety five caliber ball to fly through the air and hit the pirate hunter in his face with enough force to throw his head back as he fell to the deck on his back. After witnessing what could be better described as an execution, the pirate hunter’s crew along with Siren were all dead silent with shock as Captain Sail smiled and spoke, “The duel is over… looks like Mr. Keg is the winner.”
With anger, a sailor from the pirate hunter’s crew called, “Y-you! You cheated!!!”
Captain Sail’s expression remained casual, “Now, now, the terms were mentioned clearly… and yet there was nothing among them that said muskets weren’t allowed in this fight. If your captain were to mention that prior to startin’ then I would gladly have chosen another fighter.”

The same sailor started trotting towards Captain Sail in a hostile manner, “You bloody pirate! I'll teach you t-”
Before he could get half way to his target, a dagger came out of nowhere and pierced one of his hooves as the sailor fell to the ground screaming in pain. Without expecting the attack, Captain Sail turned his head till he could see Siren out the corner of his eye as she stood on the ships’ tied railings with her hoof still in the air from when she threw the dagger. Although he didn’t expect it, Captain Sail seem unsurprised as he looked back at the stunned sailor and replied, Careful lad… the fight may be over, but my offer to spare you only applies to my crew… and the lass… isn’t part of my crew.”
The wounded sailor angrily looked at Siren as she stepped down from the railing and seductively trotted to towards him. When she got close enough to grab her dagger she smiled, “Next time you hunt a pirate… Expect a challenge, cuz not everypony waving a black flag is as merciful as Captain Sail.”

With those words, Siren pulled the dagger out of the wounded stallion’s hoof before returning to Captain Sail as she whispered, “Kind of a cheap shot don’t you think?... pun intended.”
Captain Sail replied with a quiet but serious tone, “We don’t have time to waste fightin’ pirate hunters, nor can I risk markin’ our numbers down before we meet Iron hoof. If anythin’ they should consider this mercy.”
Siren’s tone became annoyed, “You are wavin’ a red flag… the least you can do is honor it and kill them all.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “The flag means I won’t give any quarter. But if their ship is still able to sail… I won’t need to give quarter.”
Captain Sail turned to look at the sailors around him as he called, “Crimson Pirates! Disarm the hunters and gather them on the deck of their ship! Then strip it bare. The only thing I want left on this vessel, is their sails, rudder, and enough food and water to make it to the next port. If anypony tried to fight back... Bring ‘em to me.”

With that, the priate hunters dropped their weapons and cooperated with the pirates as they started raiding through the hunters’ cargo. With the pirates raiding their ship, Captain Sail gathered all the hunters on the main deck of their vessel as he observed each one closely. While watching them, one of them stood out a little bit more than the rest as Captain Sail approached him, “You… you look familiar… either you’ve threatened me, or I’ve threatened you.
The stallion looked away as Captain Sail placed the blade of his salvaged sword on the recognized stallion’s neck, “Aye… I have seen you before… last we met, I held a blade to … just like this, only you were on the ground … and I mentioned something about… fencing?… wait…”

Captain Sail smiled as he realized who he was talking to, “You’re the guard from the night I commandeered the Bloody Tide… ain’t cha?”
Hearing their captain, the working pirates slowed their work as most of them to include Powder Keg, Pinpoint, and Siren started paying attention to the two while the stallion sneered at his captor as Captain Sail continued, “It is you… been twenty years but time hasn’t changed ya much. How have ya been lad?… don’t tell me that you’re the stallion that hired this band of pirate hunters to find me?... I’m flattered.”
The stallion replied with a disrespectful tone, “Don’t be, It’s because of you everything in my life went wrong. You stole the ship I was guarding and ruined my reputation. Then after all these years, the we finally had you on a silver platter… but the incompetence of both the guard and navy… it’s no wonder I had no choice but to hunt you down myself.”

Captain Sail was curious, “I see… and what did the princess say when you took it upon yourself to hunt me down?”
The stallion replied, “Who knows… I didn’t waste my time in telling her.”
Captain Sail was surprised, “Really?... you know it is equestrian law that states that hiring any organization, mercenary or even pirate hunters to hunt down and kill another is considered illegal. It even falls along the same punishment as if you did it yourself. I wouldn’t think that a royal guard would break any such law as that.”
The earth pony replied, “Good… that’s why I left the guards before doing this.”
“Left?... isn’t the guard something your obliged to by contract? Ya can’t just leave the guard, that would be along the lines of desertion… wouldn’t it?”

The ex-guard glared at Captain Sail as he replied, “Yea… and what if it is?”
Captain Sail started smiling in a sinister way, “Desertion… that would mean you’re a traitor… ain’t cha? Or as we on the seas call it… a mutineer.”
“Yea… so?”
Everypony amongst Captain Sail’s crew started smiling sinisterly, as Siren noticed these smiles and was confused as to their meaning. With this Captain Sail nodded, “So… you’re just another mutineer…” He took a few steps back and lowered the sword as he casually ordered, “String him up…”
Following the order, a few of the surrounding pirates grabbed the ex-guard and dragged him to the nearest mast as they lowered a rope and tied it to the traitor’s front hooves.

As they did this, Pinpoint approached Captain Sail as he spoke, “Do we really have time for this… he’s nothing but a lubber.”
Captain Sail replied as he handed off the sword and motioned to Powder Keg to come to him, “He’s a mutineer… and we know what becomes of them. But I agree, we haven’t the time to waste the powder, so we will make it quick.”
Watching the crew raise the deserter up from the yardarm, Powder Keg approached his captain and asked asked, “I heard everythin’ capt’n, which gun will we fodder him with?”
Captain Sail replied, “No time for guns, we’ll just gag him and be done with it. Bring me a ball and gag.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye aye capt’n.”

As Powder Keg trotted off to get the supplies, Siren approached Captain Sail as she asked, “What’s up captain? What are you planning to do?”
Captain Sail replied, “In my twenty years of sailing, I have only had one sailor attempt a mutiny on my ship, so in light of this, I felt it is customary to punish all mutineers the same, whether they be towards me, or somepony else.”
The hanging pony felt nervous as Captain Sail looked at him and smiled, “Usually I just dangle or lure them in front of a cannon and let the shot teach the lesson. But to save time, I’m gonna do somthin’ just as effective. I call it gaging, though chokin’ isn’t the way the lesson is taught. Just watch, and you will understand why my crew will never try to take over my command.”
Hearing this, the hanging traitor was now worried, “Wh-what are you going to do?”

Captain Sail didn’t answer, instead he just stood smiling in his sinister fashion as Powder Keg returned, “The ball and gag capt’n.”
When the Siren saw the items, it seemed like a strange selection of tools for any punishment. The Ball was actually a ball and chain no different from a ball and chain seen in a prison or brig, while the gag was actually a small caliber explosive shot with a strap that was connected to both ends and a waterproof fuse. When the hanging sailor saw these he became terrified as Captain Sail replied to Powder Keg, “Good… put them on him.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’n”
With that order, Powder Keg proceeded to clasp the ball and chain to the captive’s hind leg, and then he fought with the traitors jaw until he was able to shove the explosive gag in his mouth with the fuse exposed before strapping it around his head so that he couldn’t spit it out.

With the gage and ball now connected Captain Sail called, “List him out.”
With that order, the pirates who had the traitor hanging by his hooves moved him out over the ships railing so that all that was below him was the sea. Seeing this, the captive tried to muffle his pleading words, but since they were only sounds, Captain Sail spoke, “I hear of a pagan religion, that says that when those of sin die, they go to a world of pain and torcher. In that world, there are nine circles, each one more horrifying then the last, and the darkest and deepest circle of that hell is reserved for traitors and mutineers.”
Powder Keg handed him a line-stick with a lit slow-match at the end as he used it to light the waterproof fuse on the explosive gag, and continued, “So when I arrive there… you won’t be seeing me lad.”
With that Captain Sail called, “Drop him!”

Doing as they were told, the pirates hanging the traitor over the water, used a sword to cut the rope as the doomed ex-soldier fell into the water and was pulled under by the weight of the ball chained to his hoof. Shortly after vanishing beneath the surface, a bright flash was seen underwater as a loud thump was heard leaving only a small amount of smoke and blood to appear on the water’s surface. Seeing this everypony watching the execution knew that it was all over as Captain Sail handed the line-stick to his quartermaster and spoke with a serious tone, “Is the ship striped?”
Pinpoint nodded as he took the line stick, “Aye captain, we’re ready when you are.”
Captain Sail nodded as he casually turned and started trotting across the deck as he called, “All hooves prepare to make way!”

With that order all the pirates started rushing to get back onto the Bloody Tide as Siren, Powder Keg, Pinpoint and Captain Sail trotted back across the railing and back onto their ship. As surprised with the execution as she was, Siren was even more shocked as to how Captain Sail seemed just brush it off and carry on as if nothing happened. His behavior only confirmed, that this was something he was used to doing, which meant that he is definitely a pirate that shouldn’t be crossed. After the crew was back aboard their captain’s ship, Captain Sail stood next to his helm on the upper deck as he called to the pirate hunters who were left on their ship, “You’re free to go home, or whatever you please… but I warn you to cease huntin’ me. Cuz next time I see ya, you’ll all taste the gag.” He looked over his ship, “Cut her loose and release all sails! We have to make up for lost time!”

With that, the Crimson Pirates cut the ropes that tied the two vessels together as they released all sails and left the pirate hunters to clean up what was left behind. An untouched baiter ship, what was left of one sinking brig, and the remaining frigate that was down one captain. As the Bloody Tide sailed away from the hunter fleet, Captain Sail looked at Siren as he asked, “So… how was the fun lass? Learn anything?”
Although she was still surprised by the whole battle she replied, “Well, I learned never to trust your version of a duel.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Well, since we are now over stocked with booty, perhaps tonight can be set for a night of merry makin’.”
He looked over the crew, “WHAT SAY YOU!?!”

Although most of the crew didn’t know what he was talking about, they knew their captain enough to know that with the mood he was in, whatever he said was a good thing as they all cheered, “AYE!!!”
After the crew cheered, Captain Sail held out his hoof to Siren, “Lass? Ain’t you forgetting something?”
Siren sighed, “Really?...”
Captain Sail nodded as she sighed and placed her dagger in his hoof, “Fine… I guess the fight is over anyways.”
Captain Sail smiled, “You can have it back once I know I can trust you with it. Till then I'll just hold it for safe keepin’.”

Later that night, most of the crew were in the galley as they all cheered and sang along with the minstrel as they sang, “I once saw a flyer, the kindest admire, Timid and shy was she. But the length of her mane, or the critter’s she’d tame Couldn’t bind me away from the sea.”
The Minstrel began the chorus, “The Fillies we meet!”
Then the crew continued the chorus, “The lovely young mare”
“The Fillies we meet.”
“Be bright young and fair.”
“but treasures galore be waiting off shore.”
“So no mare could hope to ensnare.”

With the entire crew enjoying the night, song, and drink, Captain Sail looked to Siren who was also enjoying the festivities as he decided to step next to the minstrel and begin the next verse, “I met a tough lass, with plenty of brass, deadly and with nearly a flaw. But her heart be so cold, with her dangerous scold, and I fear that it never will thaw.”
With some of the crew laughing at the verse, the rest went into the chorus as Siren gave him an angry look as Captain Sail could only smile in a joking manner. As the crew finished the chorus, Siren stepped up as she sang a verse of her own, “I once knew a soul, who acted a foul. So Tough and rigorous he thought, but my beauty he sees be tougher than he. So his acting was for all but naught.”

With that, many sailors busted into laughter as they went into the chorus leaving even Captain Sail to chuckle at the verse. As soon as the chorus ended the minstrel ended the song as the entire crew cheered in enjoyment of Siren’s addition to the song. As they cheered Captain Sail tried to speak through the rowdy crew, “Good show lass, why not lead us in the next?”
Siren replied, “Really?... me?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, you have the voice for it, and I’m sure the crew wont object to it. Will ya lads!”
The crew held up their mugs as they cheered “AYE!!!”
Seeing that the rest of the crew wanted her to sing, Siren thought to herself as she replied, “Well… there is one song I know.”
Siren then trotted to the minstrel and whispered its title in his ear as he replied, “Aye a beautiful one. I know it.”

With that, the minstrel with his violin in hoof started playing a semi slow tune as Siren cleared her throat before singing, “When I was just a lass, so young and complete, I fell for a lad, so stunning and sweet, He spoke of a treasure, far out passed the shore, Then left late one mornin’, for treasures galore… All-o-wait for all-o-ways, for our sailors’ at sea. For he seeks out his dream, then will come home to me. Oh the days they will change, and time she will pass. So I’ll-o-wait for All-o-ways till he comes home at last
All-o-wait for all-o-ways till he comes home at last.”

As the mare sang, the tone of her voice with the softness of the music and her beauty captivated the entire audience. So much in fact that the room which was rowdy with laughter and cheers during the last song was now dead silent, as many closed their eyes and imagined what the beautiful mare was singing as she continue, “A decade has passed, and my loyalty stay, For here I have waited, while my lover’s away. But my faith still is strong as I burden this weight. So here onto you, I will say I’ll-o-wait… Oh All-o-wait for all-o-ways, for a sailor’s at sea. Till he seeks out his dream, and then comes home to me. Oh the days they will change, and time she will pass. So I’ll-o-wait for All-o-ways till he comes home at last All-o-wait for all-o-ways till he comes home at last.”

After that verse ended, the minstrel slowed his tune to a saddened tempo as Siren did the same with her voice as she continued singing with a tone as if she were actually in pain, “Oh it’s four decades passed… as I lay weak and frail. Looking out the nearest window, hoping to see his sail. But my eyes they grow heavy, as I try not to cry, for he won’t be beside me… for my final goodbye… All-o-wait for all-o-ways, is my sailor at sea? Has he sought out his fortune, 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.”

As the song slowly came to an end, the entirety of the crew was dead silent as the beautiful voice and sad lyrics brought a number of sea hardened pirates to tears. As they all sat in silence, the creaking of the rocking ship was all that was heard as Siren looked around in confusion. With the crew silent, Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail and spoke, “Well now… that was… unexpected.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… as if the lass isn’t who we originally brought on board. But a completely different mare.”
With the room dead silent, Siren felt like her song wasn’t liked as she started feeling a little tense. Then Powder Keg wiped away his tears as he trotted up behind her and put his hoof on her shoulder, “Wow lass… that wa-”

Before he could finish Siren grabbed his hoof and threw him over her shoulder as she slammed him on the deck and spoke, “Say one wrong word… and I'll kill you where you lay.”
Too stunned to say anything, Powder Keg laid on the deck as Pinpoint mumbled, “Well… that was short lived.”
Captain Sail nodded, “There’s the mare we all know and fear.”
Seeing that Powder Keg wasn’t going to reply, Siren let him go as she turned around and exited the galley onto the main deck without letting anypony speak. When she was gone, Pinpoint asked, “Should we go after her captain?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No, you stay here and try to relieve the tension. I'll see to the lass.”
With that, Captain Sail started trotting back onto the main deck as the minstrel below started a different song reliving the tension as the crew went back to their rowdy selves.

Up on the main deck, Captain Sail looked around till he saw Siren standing on the upper deck looking at the moon. Captain Sail then trotted onto the upper deck and approached her as she sat looking at the alicorn indention on the moon’s surface. As she studied the indention Captain Sail spoke, “Princess Luna.”
Siren turned to him, “What?”
Captain Sail continued, “Nearly a thousand years ago, there were two princesses who watched over Equestria. Princess Celestia, and her younger sister Princess Luna. Celestia looked over the kingdom during the day and raised and lowered the sun. Her sister brought out the moon and controlled the kingdom at night, but since everypony slept at night, she became jealous. So out of anger she tried to take over the kingdom but was foiled by her older sister and then imprisoned in the moon. That’s why you see the im-”

Siren interrupted him with an annoyed tone, “Do you want something, or do you just like giving history lessons for no reason.”
Captain Sail replied, “Just came to see if you needed something after the show you put on. Mr. Keg meant no harm nor disrespect. He only wanted to tell you th-“
“I don’t need to impress you… nor do I need to your crew’s approval.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Very well, though I can’t help but feel that the song you sang was more than just a lovely tune wasn’t it?”
Siren turned away as she replied, “My mother used to sing it, while my father was at sea.”

Captain Sail nodded, “So… he was a sailor?”
Siren nodded, “Aye, he was. And after mother died, he took me on his ship and taught me to be a pirate.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Ah… now it makes sense, the daughter to a pirate. That explains why you’re as tough as you are. I’m safe to assume your father taught you how to fight?”
Siren nodded, “Aye… though he died before he could teach me to… well… never mind.”
With that, Siren’s expression became saddened as Captain Sail guessed, “He died recently… didn’t he?”
Although she didn’t answer, Captain Sail could tell that by her expression he was right as he continued, “Did… Captain Iron Hoof kill him?”

Siren sighed as she replied, “A week ago… aye.”
Captain Sail could only smile at the irony as she continued, “Iron Hoof killed him, and… took over our ship.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… I see. So he overran the Lullaby and kill all aboard and that’s why you want his head, is it?”
At first Siren was confused until she replied, “The lullaby… right. He sank it, took my father and I hostage and wanted me to join his crew. But… when I refused, he threatened to kill my father if I didn’t… so now.”
Captain Sail nodded, “You refused, and he took your father’s life.”

Siren nodded, as she replied with an enraged tone, “My father was always talking about the day he would give the… Lullaby to me and make me its captain. But… he died before he had the chance.”
Captain Sail replied as he stepped closer and looked out into the sea, “So… he died before he could teach you to be a captain… I s’pose that makes since. It certainly explains why you don’t act like a captain.”
Siren didn’t respond, all she did was turn her head till she could see him out the corner of her eye, then turned back to the sea as Captain Sail smiled, “Well… then perhaps I can teach ya.”
Siren looked back at him, “Wh-what?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Since your father isn’t hear to teach you to be a captain, then I'll teach ya. You have what it takes, you’re strong, dangerous, and ya know how to strike the fear into those around ya. All ya need is a few pointers in leading a crew, and tough decision making skills then you’d be perfect for the helm.”
Siren turned completely to him, “You mean… your willing to teach me?... wait…” she gave him a skeptic look, “What’s the catch? If I have to back off when we see Iron Hoof, then no deal. His head is mine.”

Captain Sail smiled as he acted like he was thinking, “Hmm… let’s see. There has to be something you can make up for all the training I will give… let me think… oh I know, how about a song.”
Siren was confused, “Excuse me?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, when you’re fully trained all I want from you, is to sing. Your voice is like that of an actual Siren. Luring even the most cold hearted sailor to his doom. And if you were a Siren, I'd guess everypony in that galley would be at the bottom of the ocean right now.”
Siren tried to think, “So… you liked my song?”
Captain Sail continued, “Ya moved the room to tears lass. And despite your little after show, it was nice seeing a more… tender side of ya. So… I think it will be fair that in return for making you a hardened captain, you can keep that tender and beautiful side of ya long enough to sing for me.”

Although it wasn’t the most direct complement, it was still recognized as Siren smiled, “You know what… I accept those terms. Before this is all said and done. I'll sing for you.”
The two smiled at each other for a brief moment, until Pinpoint trotted up on the deck. When she saw him, Siren smiled as she placed her hoof against Captain Sail’s chest, “Thank you captain, I’m glad that of all the ships to end up on, I ended up on yours.”
With that, Siren leaned in closer and kissed Captain Sail on his cheek before turning away and leaving as she trotted by Pinpoint, down onto the main deck and then disappeared into the ship. Red and speechless, Captain Sail tilted his hat forward to hide his blushing face as he turned and looked to the sea as Pinpoint approached his captain and asked, “What was that about captain?”

Captain Sail felt a little awkward as he cleared his throat, “Well eh… we just had ourselves an understandin’… of sorts.”
Pinpoint replied as he looked out into the sea, “Did ya now?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye…”
Pinpoint spoke, “Ya realize she swiped her dagger back don’t ya?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye she did… She is a clever one, tried to use a kiss to numb me before swiping back what was hers.”
Pinpoint was curious, “Did it work?”
Captain Sail smirked, “I may be a pirate and a captain… but I’m still a stallion too.”
Pinpoint chuckled a little, “So it did then… Do you want me to take it back?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No need. I took it from her since she was dishonest about where she came from.”
Pinpoint asked, “So, she finally told the truth about her Lullaby?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No… she’s still liein’ out her teeth. But there were parts of her story that were true, so for the time being we shall take it as such and hope that the real truth comes forth soon. Either way, I think we can trust her a little more… for now anyways.”

Ch9 The Titan and His Subjects

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The Bloody Tide continued slowly as it made its way through the burning remains of what was once a fleet of ships. As they continued, the entire crew looked at the destruction in awe as Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail and spoke, “They went down in a gaggle, they were ambushed and were sunk in the confusion… what do you think captain?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Dead colts tell no tales, whatever it was that happened here, happened recently.”
Siren stepped onto the deck with the officers as she spoke, “It’s Iron Hoof… it has to be.”
Captain Sail nodded, “It’s possible… perhaps time has come for your first lesson lass. A captain must know his or her crew and their skills. For example.” He looked down to the lower deck as he called, “Mr. Keg? What do you make of this?”

Already observing the wreckage from the starboard railing he replied, “Not much here to make of it capt’n… they were attacked from the west, first with chain and solid shot to slow them down, then up close from what looks to be Greek fire.”
Siren gave him a surprised expression as Captain Sail replied, “Greek fire?”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye, it’s a special fuel that burns hotter when wet. Seems the attacker showed no mercy with this lot. Burned the ships, their crew, and cargo.”
Siren immediately spoke up, “Greek fire?... are you sure? I mean are you absolutely curtain that this is what he used?”
Powder Keg gave her a hopeless look as Captain Sail replied, “Mr. Keg is the world’s most accurate weapons expert. Nothin’ gets by his keen eye.” He looked back at Powder Keg, “Anythin’ else?”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye, small holes in the timber next to the bodies… seems the survivors were taken down by musket fire.”

Pinpoint called in response to his theory, “Could have been grapeshot?”
Powder Keg nodded, “Nah grape would have left the holes clustered together. These are individual, so the shooters were skilled if anythin’. They made sure there were none to te-”
“STALLION OVERBOARD!!! SURVIVOR ON THE PORT SIDE!!!”
Hearing the call, everypony aboard the Bloody Tide rushed to the port side and looked over the railings as Captain Sail, Pinpoint, and Siren trotted down to the main deck and looked with the rest of the crew. Down below was a small longboat that had a charred pony-like creature laying on one side as the flames from the Greek fire engulfed the rest. Too weak to stand the wounded creature looked up at the crew as he spoke, “Help… me…”
Seeing the sailor in trouble Siren called, “Ready a boat! We need to go d-“
“Wait…”

Listening to the captain’s order, Siren watched as the spreading flames quickly spread over the rest of the boat as they spread over the survivor’s body as the burning creature started screaming in pain, “AHHH… H-HELP!! HELP ME PLEASE! AHHH!”
Finding it hard to listen to his plea, Siren and most of the crew looked away as Captain Sail sighed, “Pity… Mr Keg…”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye capt’n.”
With the screams echoing through the area, Powder Keg raised his musket, took aim, and fired as the load echoing gunshot silenced the screams as the only thing heard afterwards was the crackling of the burning wreckage around them.

Disappointed that nothing could be done, Captain Sail spoke, “Another lesson lass… there is no point wasting resources for those that can’t be saved. If we tried he would have died anyways and told us nothing we already didn’t know. That is all we could have done for him.” He looked at Pinpoint, “Mr. Point? How far are we from the Leviathan seas?”
Pinpoint replied, “We should be on the border now.”
Captain Sail nodded as he started up the stairs, “Then it shouldn’t be long…” once he was on the top deck he called, “All hooves navigate us out of this burnin’ graveyard and continue with caution. If the stories are true, then we should be runnin’ into our titan soon.”
As the crew started navigating out of the wreckage Siren watched the last of the burning ships pass as she mumbled to herself, “Their colors… those ships were from Home… but… why did he destroy ships from Home?... and an entire fleet? What is he doing?”

Slightly hearing her words, Pinpoint spoke, “Iron Hoof is a pirate… Though we all live for freedom, we are still treasure hunters. Seeking out a small fleet of nine schooners isn’t much of a treasure, but it’s still pray, and as we all know. No pray, no pay.”
Feeling a little nervous that her comment was heard she replied, “Aye… but there should be a sense of pride that goes with it, not to mention ya cant salvage a ship burned by Greek fire so there is no pay in this. He’s just… not doing what he is meant to do.”
Pinpoint felt suspicious about the way she replied to his comment, but before he could reply Captain Sail called, “Mr. Keg, back in the crow’s nest. Call out anything you see. Mr Point, Siren… up here, we need to plan for our encounter.”

Doing as they were told, Powder Keg climbed up to the crow’s nest as Pinpoint and Siren trotted to the top deck and met Captain Sail next to the helm. As they stood together Captain Sail spoke, “Okay Mr. Point, what will we expect to see once we are in those waters?”
Pinpoint pulled out a sea chart and unrolled it on a barrel as he replied, “Once we are in the seas we should come across two islands. The First is called Home while the other is nameless.”
Siren was surprised, “Wh- These are sea charts for the Leviathan seas with Home marked on them… but h-how did you get these?”
Before Pinpoint could reply, Captain Sail spoke for him, “A skilled navigator has his ways…” he looked at Pinpoint, “So what is your plan on getting past the titan?”
Pinpoint nodded “That’s a good question…” he looked at Siren, “Lass?”

Both Captain Sail and Pinpoint looked at Siren as she returned their look with confusion, “What… you’re asking me?”
Captain Sail replied, “You led us here lass… I’d s’pose this means you have a plan on getting passed the Titan of the sea. You have been to this Home Isle before haven’t ya?”
Siren nodded, “Well… I have… but, it’s not enti-”
before she could finish, Powder Keg called, “Uh Capt’n? Something is happening?”
Confused Captain Sail called, “Where about Mr. Keg?”
Powder Keg replied as he looked at the water all around the ship, “Um… all around us captain.”

Concerned Captain Sail, Pinpoint and Siren trotted to the nearest railing as they looked into the water however from the upper deck of the ship, nothing seemed out of place as they looked around in confusion. Captain Sail called, “Mr. Keg? What do you see?”
From up in the crow’s nest Powder Keg could see an unusual current circling the ship as he replied, “I dono… looks like… an underwater eddy or so- wait.”
Confused, Powder Keg tried taking a closer look at the edges of the current as he saw what looked to be a fin poke through the surface. As soon as he saw it he called, “Serpent!!! Captain there is a sea serpent circling the Tide!”

Watching the water Siren spotted the fin as she called, “NO!!! It’s the Leviathan!” She called over the ship, “Don’t show any hostilities! Stay away from the cannons and don’t draw any weapons. Bring in all sails and brace yourselves! Captain, I would suggest you get to the helm, the Leviathan respects a captain who pilots his own ship.”
The Crimson pirates gave their captain a confused look as he hesitated before relaying the order, “You heard her lads! Hope to it! Bring in all sails!”
Doing as they were told, all sailors distanced themselves from the cannons and brought in the sails while Captain Sail took the helm from the helms colt. As they did this, the exposed fin soon revealed the snake like scales of the sea creature as the titan circled the ship like a predator closing off all escape for its prey. Watching the serpent like titan spiral around them the crew felt nervous as it slowly submerged into the water leaving the current surrounding the ship to slow to a stop.

As the crew watched for any actions on the water, Captain Sail spoke, “Easy lads… he may be a titan… but he ain’t a brainless beast. Or… so I’ve heard.”
As the crew waited a small moment of silence passed as tension started to rise. With nothing happening everypony on she ship watched the still water as Captain Sail mumbled, “What is this… where di-”
All of a sudden, the something powerful hit the ship underwater as the sudden shocked knocked everypony to the deck. Shortly after a tall waterspout formed directly in front of the ship as everypony aboard braced themselves to whatever they could hold onto as the wind from the spout made it difficult for them to keep calm. As they waited in anxiety it wasn’t long before the waterspout exploded outwards as the water rained onto the ship leaving a massive serpent like creature towering high above the ship as its wings opened cascading a shadow that completely covered the Bloody Tide from stem to stern.

With half of his body exposed, The Crimson pirates could only gaze in awe at the Last of the great Titans of the world, The Leviathan. The massive creature looked similar to any normal sea serpent, however as normal serpents were about two hundred feet long and resembled a snake, this one was near a thousand feet from what could be seen above water and though it did looked similar to a snake, he had a pointed beak and on its back were four massive wings that stretched out at least five hundred feet each as this great and powerful deity gazed down upon the ship that was small in his comparison. Seeing the large creature made the entire crew nervous as Captain Sail stood at the helm without showing even a hint of fear or worry. As the large titan towered over the ship’s tallest mast, the Leviathan panned his eyes over the vessels before speaking with a loud booming voice, “Who dares to sail into my waters. Who is so bold to challenge the power of the Leviathan?”
Siren approached Captain Sail as she whispered, “Tell him who you are captain… but choose your words carefully, he won’t give you a chance to explain disrespect.”
Captain Sail called to the titan, “My name is Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail! And I do not seek to challenge a titan such as yourself! Instead I have come for another!”
Narrowing his eyes on Captain Sail, the Leviathan pondered for a second then replied, “Since you are wise not to challenges the last of the Titans, I will allow you to return home with your lives. Go now, and never return.”

The Leviathan then started to turn away to leave but before he could Captain Sail replied, “I’d like to… but I’m afraid I won’t be sailing anywhere till I get what I came for.”
The Leviathan stopped then turned back to Captain Sail as he replied, “Is that so… and what did you come for?...”
Captain Sail replied with a serious tone as if it was more a declaration then a reply, “I came to claim the head of Captain Iron Hoof.”
The Leviathan was intrigued, slowly he panned his eyes over the ship, its crew and its armaments before looking back to the captain and replying, “To claim his head?… And why do you seek Iron Hoof?”
Captain Sail replied without hesitation in his voice, “I came to get justice for an action he is responsible for.”
The large titan chuckled as he replied, “A pirate… seeking justice from a pirate… how humorous. Yet foolish, the Iron Wing is a ship of my waters and my domain. As such, it is a vessel under my protection and will not be harmed by the likes of you, or any intruders from the outside world. Your journey was in vain little pony, now go before it becomes a total failer.”

Siren stepped next to Captain Sail as she called, “If Captain Sail is unpermitted to kill Iron Hoof, then I'll do it!... As a subject to your domain, I too am under your protection and thus irrelevant to your law. After all… I am the daughter of your guardian, and it is with his death that I will claim the title and protect your treasure, as my family has done for centuries!”
Surprised everypony on the Bloody Tide looked to Siren as the Leviathan looked at her and nodded, “Yes… your words ring true and if by your hoof shall he fall. Then so be it. But this crew you bring forth… are they worthy to pass?... I will not question the judgment of my guardian, but I do wish to hear your statement on their behalf. Can they be trusted to enter my seas?...”
Siren nodded as she placed her hoof over her heart, “They can… As guardian of your treasure, I promise they will not be a threat to you, your subjects, or your domain.” With her hoof over her heart she bowed her head, “This I swear it…”

As the Leviathan looked down onto his bowing subject he nodded his head as he replied, “Very well, if you claim that I’ve nothing to fear, then I will allow them passage.” His eyes shifted to the ship’s captain, “But be warned Captain Sail, if for any reason I see your actions unjust. Then I will return and bring with me the pain and suffering that thousands have felt before you. Your ship, your bodies, your very souls will freeze and crumble at the might of the last titan.”
With that said, the Leviathan flapped its wings as it jettisoned himself onto the air as he flew over the ship and dived into the sea behind it allowing the crew to see all two thousand feet of the great titan of the sea. As the titan splashed into the sea, the splashing water solidified while in the air leaving a spikey Iceberg behind him as the great titan vanished amongst the waves.

As the Leviathan vanished amongst the waves, the crew stared at the eerie iceberg left behind as Captain Sail gave Siren a confused look as he spoke, “Guardian?”
Siren replied with a smirk, “A lady has to have her secrets captain. All will be explained once we reach Home.”
With that said Siren looked back over the ship acting as if her comment wasn’t made as Pinpoint approached Captain Sail, “Captain… might we have a word… in private?”
At that moment Powder Keg had finished climbing down from the crow’s nest as he trotted up to Captain Sail and added, “I agree captain… we should discuss something in the absence of curtain company.”
Seeing the uneasy expressions on both their faces Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… then let us retire to my quarters.” He looked over the ship, “Open the main sails and continue on course!”
The crew opened the sails and continued on their course as Captain Sail, Pinpoint and Powder Keg trotted down onto the main deck then entered the quarters that sat just below the upper deck.

As soon as the door was shut, Captain Sail trotted over to his desk as he spoke, “So… what is it you gents want to discuss?
Pinpoint spoke first, “Did you know about this captain? About the lass’s involvement with the Leviathan?”
Captain Sail shook his head as he pulled out a bottle of rum, “No… I didn’t, as of a few moments ago, I’m just as in the dark as you lot.”
As the captain pulled the cork from the bottle Powder Keg spoke, “Captain? What did she mean by, guardian?”
Captain Sail thought to himself before taking a drink, then he replied, “Apparently the lass is trusted to protect some sort of treasure for the Leviathan.”
Captain Sail passed the bottle to Powder Keg as the master gunner smiled, “A treasure guarded for a god… I’m willin’ to bet somethin’ like that could fetch a nice and shiny bit. Must be pretty valuable.”

Powder Keg took a swig as Pinpoint added, “Or dangerous… A deity has no need for treasure no matter its value. If he needs somethin’ guarded, is isn’t guarded for himself, it’s guarded from everypony else. Whatever it is, it has to be powerful, possibly as much as he.”
As Powder Keg passed the bottle to Pinpoint, Captain Sail added, “Or more so, nevertheless our goal remains unchanged. We will not pay any mind to this treasure. A titan just showed mercy to an unwelcomed vessel, none in Pirate Cove have this type of grog story to tell.”
Pinpoint took a swig then spoke, “Or none who wish to share the story anyways. We aren’t forgetting the reason I have these charts.”

As Pinpoint passed the bottle back to his captain, Captain Sail nodded as he continued, “Aye, and as senile as he seems, Teacher Ticket is the wisest pirate in all the seas. If there is a tale he refuses to tell, then there is good reason behind it. So while we are here, we abide by the Leviathan’s rules.”
Captain Sail took another swig from the rum as Powder Keg added, “That means we are abiding by the lass’s rules too.”
Captain Sail nodded as he passed the bottle to Powder Keg, “Then that’s what we’ll do. We are dealin’ with a deity after all. We can flee from Equestria’s princess since she’s a land lubber. But for us, there is no fleein’ from a Titan of the sea. Especially one who can turn the very water to ice at will.”
Powder Keg took the bottle and drank more of the rum as Pinpoint rubbed his head in irritation, “Speakin’ freely captain, I don’t like this predicament we’ve found ourselves in. She may have opened up to ya last night, but the lass is still hiding something… something important.”
Pinpoint then took the bottle and drank more as Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Be that as it is, we still have a task at hoof. The Leviathan says that Iron Hoof is his subject… to hear anypony, deity or not, mention that they’ve seen him is a rarity in itself. We are much closer to him now than we ever were before… and I won’t lose him. We’ll play nice and bide our time till we get what we came for. Then once it’s all done, we will leave with nearly a word spoken. We came in peace, and will leave all the same. Understood?...”

Pinpoint passed the bottle back to his captain as Powder Keg asked, “And these captainin’ lessons… will they continue?”
Captain Sail nodded as he took one last swig, then replied “That is a barter between the lass and I. So you leave that between us. She will make a fine captain when this is all done, and hopefully someday a keen ally. But till then, we will play nice, agreed?”
Pinpoint and Powder Keg nodded in agreement as Captain Sail put the cork back in the bottle and placed it back in his desk, “Now then… since you’ve had your words about this spoken, lets continue with the reason we are here. Let’s find and kill our ghost, once and for all.”
The two officers stood as they both replied, “Aye aye captain.”
With that all three officers left the cabin as the two highest ranking ones trotted to the upper deck leaving Powder Keg to return to his post on the crow’s nest.

As soon as they were back on the top deck Siren asked, “Everything alright captain?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye, just discussing matters of the Tide. Nothing for you to worry about.”
Siren gave him a curious look, “Is… is that rum I smell on you?”
Captain Sail smiled innocently, “Rum… at this hour? I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about lass.”
Giving a skeptic look Siren held her silence as Captain Sail quickly changed the subject as he spoke, “Mr. Point? What’s our next heading?”
Pinpoint took the sea charts back out as he unrolled it and laid it across a barrel, “Well Captain, we entered the seas through here on this heading, so if we continue, we should reach Home within a few hours. If I’m readin’ them properly, we should be able to beat the dusk twilight.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good, then let’s continued smartly. If we reach this island then we can rest on dry land before seeking out the Iron Wing.”

Siren nodded as she replied, “Alright, then we will rest at Home. We can use that time to sell the booty from yesterday’s pirate hunter fiasco.”
Pinpoint was surprised, “Sell it? Is there a town on Home?”
Siren nodded, “Aye there is.” She pointed at the island on the charts, “Home is a simple isle, in the center is a large mountain surrounded by thick jungles and a temple on its peak. But on this side of the isle, there is a port and a small town, filled with everything a pirate and his crew needs, markets, shipwrights, and of course a pub and tavern.”
Captain Sail smiled, “You seem to know a lot about this town… This wouldn’t happen to be where you hail from is it?”
Siren replied with an annoyed tone, “As if it’s any of your business, it is.”
Pinpoint asked, “What’s the name of the town?”
Siren hesitated before replying, “… Home…”
Captain Sail and Pinpoint looked at each other before looking back at Siren as Captain Sail replied, “Not a very creative bunch are ya?”
Siren replied with a smug tone, “This from a captain who’s name basically scream uncreative?”
Captain Sail thought to himself, “… Touché.”

Hours later, the Bloody Tide continued on its course as Powder Keg called from the crow’s nest, “Land Ho! Two isles off the port bow!”
As soon as this was heard Captain Sail and Siren looked in the direction that Powder Keg called as Pinpoint pulled out a spyglass and looked in the direction, “I see it captain… large island comin’ up soon… looks like there is a second about a mile further. That one must be the nameless o… oh… wow would ya look at that?”
As the Bloody Tide started nearing home, Pinpoint passed the spyglass to his captain as he pointed to the island passed Home, “What do you make of this captain?”
Captain Sail looked at the other island as he saw large arcs of Ice incasing the entire island as he asked, “What in blue blazes?”
Siren replied to his confusion, “That’s the Isle of the Leviathan, nopony is allowed there, not even I. That is the sanctuary of the Titan himself. Any who step hoof there die, no matter who they are.”

Captain Sail lowered the spyglass as he replied, “Then let’s steer clear of it then. I didn’t come all this way to get eaten by a god.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye, let us focus on making port at Home. Whereabouts is the town lass?”
Siren replied, “Just around this peninsula once we see the town we ca…”
Before she could finish her sentence a distant booming sound echoed through the sky as she paused, “What?...”
at that moment, an explosive shell hit the water a few feet from the Bloody Tide’s bow. Then after a brief moment, the shell exploded as everypony on the Tide was knocked to the deck as the shockwave rocked the ship while throwing a large amount of water into the air as it showered onto the Bloody Tide’s deck. After the splash subsided, Everypony picked themselves back up as Captain Sail called, “They are firing on us! All hooves to station!!!”
Siren called back, “Belay that!!! Strike the colors!”

Captain Sail gave her a stern look as he replied, “With all due respect lass we don’t have time for pleasantries! We are facing an isle that has us in sight, I can’t risk m-”
“Captain please just listen to me! Home never fires its guns unless they are threatened! They obviously think we are somepony else. Strike the colors and a white flag! If they see that then they will stop, or at the very least try to make contact before sinkin’ us.”
Powder Keg called from the crow’s nest, “Order’s Capt’n?”
Seeing the serious expression on Siren’s face Captain Sail sighed in anger, “Strike the colors and a white flag! Show them we mean them no harm!”
As the crew followed orders, Siren replied, “Thank you captain… you may have just saved us all.”
Captain Sail replied in anger, “You better be right about this lass.”

Over on the island a group of Hippogriffs were reloading a cannon as the leader with her sky blue coat and grey mane stood next to them looking at the Bloody Tide. As she stood watching their target, the cannon lead called, “We missed the first shot milady, but after calculating the distance, we won’t miss again.”
The mare replied, “Good, I’m tired of this pirate scum. Sent them to the bottom of the sea where they belong.”
As the crew finished loading the cannon, the spotter stood watching their target as he called, “Priestess? You might want to take a look at this!”

The angry mare trotted to her spotter as she took the spyglass and looked to the Bloody Tide. First she focused on the colors of the Tide as she saw both the Crimson Jolly Roger and the white flag beneath it, then she looked to the helm as she saw Siren standing next to Captain Sail an she replied, “What the?...” She lowered the spyglass, “Cease fire! The guardian’s daughter is aboard that ship!”
The gun crew stopped sighting the cannon as the gunner replied, “Siren?... she’s alive?”
The mare replied, “Yea… looks like our theories were correct. Ready the port for her arrival, and notify the Queen, she’ll want to meet her at the port as well.”
With both sides of the conflict ceasing their attacks, Captain Sail and his crew were free to sail to the port that sat just on the opposite side of the island.

As the pirate vessel approached the port, the tie roped were thrown to the dock workers as the ship was pulled in to be tied to the dock. As the ship listed closer to the dock, Siren spoke, “Captain… when we go ashore it would be a good idea if you and I were to step out together, the natives know me, and if they fired on us, then something’s got them spooked. Home never fires on visiting ships… not that we get many visitors.”
Pinpoint spoke up, “Now listen here lass, who named you captain of thi-”
“Agreed…” Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail as the captain continued, “As guests to the island, it would be best to be escorted by a resident. Yet another lesson on being captain lass, never create conflict on a new land. Unless… you’re forced to.”
Rolling her eyes on the lesson, Siren replied, “Sure… but still, the hippogriffs here aren’t very trusting to unknown ponies, so it would be best to-”
“Hippogriffs?”

At that moment, before Captain Sail could add to his interruption, the gangplank fell onto the dock with a thump as everypony looked over the dock to see a large number of approaching hippogriffs on the other side. Acting casual, Captain Sail stepped onto the gangplank and trotted onto the dock, followed closely by Siren as the two pirates trotted to the group of approaching hippogriffs. As soon as the two parties met, the hippogriff priestess stood at the lead of the group as she spoke, “Siren… it’s good to see you safe and sound… and… this is?”
Captain Sail stepped forward as he replied, “Beggin’ your pardon miss, but I believe the hostess should introduce herself first. Common courtesy and whatnot…”
Siren gave Captain Sail an annoyed look as the priestess replied with an untrusting glance, “My name is Priestess Aqua… I am the leader of this island and priestess to the Leviathan temple. And… you are?”

Captain Sail bowed in a seemingly sarcastic way as he replied, “Of course, my name is Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail at your service Miss Aqua.”
Before Aqua could reply, Siren spoke up, “Captain Sail helped me after Iron Hoof dumped me in the Equestrian Sea.”
The priestess continued with her untrustworthy glance as she replied, “Did he?... and… what does he know of Home?”
Siren shrugged her shoulders as she replied, “Not much, he knows about the Lullaby and that father is… was the guardian.”
Aqua nodded, “The Lullaby… got it… Well perhaps we can discuss more when we are al-”
“Sister!!!”

At that moment, a pregnant hippogriff with a pinkish coat and dark purple feathers stepped through the herd as she reached out and hugged Siren as Siren replied, “Y-your majesty? What are you still doing here?... and, didn’t I tell you to stop referring to me as sister?”
A number of guards arrived and stood amongst the herd as the pinkish hippogriff stopped hugging her friend and replied, “And why shouldn’t I? We practically grew up together, so as far as I’m concerned we are sisters…”
At that moment the pregnant hippogriff noticed Captain Sail as she spoke, “Oh… hello.” She looked back at her friend, “Siren… who is this charming sailor… and where can I find one?”
Siren replied, “This is Captain Sail, he and his crew of pirates brought me back from the Equestrian Sea.”
The royal mare smiled “Did he?... and a pirate? Seems that the two always attract one another. Maybe I should be a pirate.”
Siren sighed in hopelessness, “I don’t think your husband the king would appreciate that very much.”

Taking the words as a compliment Captain Sail nodded, “You humble me lass… or… did I hear right? Your majesty?”
The Mare smiled as she stood up strait, “Oh that’s right, allow me to introduce myself, my name is Queen Novo of the Hippogriff Kingdom.”
Captain Sail was a little confused, “Hippogriff Kingdom? I’ve been in those waters before, don’t recall if I’m wanted there or not but I digress, you’re a long way from home lass.”
The priestess cleared her throat, “That’s your majesty to you Mr. Sail. And don’t forget it.”
Queen Novo shook her head, “Now, now, he is right, I am fare from my kingdom so the need for formalities isn’t nessisary here. Nevertheless, I came to both visit my favorite sister and observe the treasure’s security. Though, this visit wasn’t supposed to last this long.
Captain Sail smiled, “Ah, so this treasure is a hippogriff relic?”

Feeling that the subject was bordering secret, Queen Novo replied, “Perhaps… Anyways, I was supposed to be back in my kingdom by now… but…”
Siren asked, “But?...”
Queen Novo replied with an unhappy look, “I’ve been trapped here… because of Iron Hoof.”
Siren replied “So… he’s attacking the island?”
Priestess Aqua nodded, “Yes, for the past few days now. We didn’t understand it before, but the Iron Wing has been targeting every ship that leaves the island. He’s even attacked the port a few times, but only with long range warning shots. To be honest I’m surprised you haven’t run into him?”
Captain Sail replied, “We just missed him. After he laid waste to a fleet of fishing schooners.”
The priestess sighed, “So that’s why they haven’t returned. We sent them out to gather food, but… seems they failed.”
Queen Novo sighed, “Now, things are only going to get worse.”

Siren shook her head, “No… they aren’t. My father is dead, and I aim to get Iron Hoof back for it. Eye for an eye.”
Queen Novo was surprised, “What? Your father?”
Siren nodded, “Aye… Iron Hoof killed him.”
The priestess shifted her eyes to and from Captain Sail as she nodded and spoke carefully, “This better explains things… and as much as I hate to agree. Something must be done. Siren… Your father was the guardian of this island’s treasure. So if he is truly gone, then the responsibility falls onto you.”
Siren nodded, “I understand, and I accept it.”
Queen Novo realized that Captain Sail was still there as she replied, “But for now, let us put aside our troubles and welcome our guests to the island.” She looked over the observing ship as she called, “Sail Pirates!”
Siren corrected “Crimson…”
The Queen corrected herself, “Crimson Pirates!... Welcome to Home!”

Thinking this was a good time to replay, the crew cheered, “AYE!!!”
Hearing this the Queen smiled, “Wow, a lively bunch aren’t they.”
Captain Sail took it as a compliment as he replied, “Aye they are, but you will never find a better crew on this or any sea.”
Queen Novo smiled at his comment, “Then we are in good hooves.”
Captain Sail went back to his ship to delegate guard duties as Queen Novo stepped closer to Siren as she spoke, “So… big tough pirate… how fare have you gotten with him?”
Siren sighed, “Nowhere, he only helped me get back home, so don’t read into it.”
The Queen replied, “Done read into it? I want to read ALL of it. Finally we can have an actual girl talk about boys.” She patted her pregnant belly, “Even if it’s a little late for me. So, have you kissed yet? What was it like? Is he tough and burly or does he have a gentle side to him that he only shows when you two are alone?”
Siren rolled her eyes as she replied, “Nothing is happening between us, he is only teaching me tips for being a captain.”

The Queen’s eyes lit up as she replied, “Oh… so he is one of those quid-pro-quo guys then huh?”
Siren’s face turned red, “What?... no! He… well… sorta… it’s complicated.”
The priestess gave her a sinister smile as she replied, “Not really, I was once with a stallion like that. The key is making them work for it.”
Siren replied, “He isn’t like… THAT… he’s only here to… oh forget it.”
The two hippogriffs chuckled at Siren’s expression as the priestess continued, “Nevertheless… this is a problem. With your father gone the treasure is in trouble. And this Iron Hoof… he needs to be dealt with.”
Siren nodded, “I know… but don’t worry, Captain Sail Is as anxious to kill Iron Hoof as I am.”

The priestess was concerned, “Captain Sail is hunting Iron Hoof as well?”
Siren nodded, “Aye… I don’t know why, but rumors amongst his crew say that he lost somepony to Iron Hoof too. But… from the way it sounds, it was about twenty years ago.”
The priestess was surprised, “Twenty years… so… he doesn’t know the Iron Wing’s duty then does he?”
She shook her head, “No… I hope I can keep it that way, but if my luck continues, he will.”
The queen felt a little concerned, “And… what will happen then?”
Siren sighed, “Hopefully he will be passive and accept what’s happened with a little maturity. But considering who he is… it will probably end with blood.”
The priest asked, “And… what will you do if it comes to that?”
Siren sighed as she replied with a serious tone, “My duty as guardian will always come first. I can’t guard the treasure if I’m dead now can I? If it comes to that, then I'll do what has to be done… I'll end him.”

Ch10 The Isle of Home

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Captain Sail and Pinpoint patiently stood outside a large temple as Pinpoint asked, “Are you sure about this captain… what if they are plottin’ against us in there?”
Captain Sail replied, “Have some faith Mr. Point, the lass is crafty, but she wouldn’t lead us all the way here just to kill us. Sides, The Queen herself said we were welcomed here, and I hear that the Hippogriff Queen is a mare of her word. It’s their right to request we do not enter their temple. The Leviathan is a god of sorts to them, and we must respect their religion.”
At that moment a rubber ball fell in from the air as it hit the ground and bounced towards the two ponies before stopping at their hooves. Curious, Captain Sail picked up the rubber ball as a small group of hippogriff foals flew up and landed as one spoke, “Sorry sir, I think I kicked it too far. Can I have my ball back?”

Smiling at the innocents, Captain Sail tossed the ball back as he replied, “Be your right lad, I may be a pirate but I ain’t one to take from a welcomin’ isle.”
The colt caught the ball as he asked, “A pirate? Is that your frigate in the harbor?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good eye on ya, As a matter of fact it is. That’s The Bloody Tide.”
The group of colts smiled as the same one replied, “Cool, how many guns is it? Thirty four?”
Marveling at the colt’s knowledge Captain Sail nodded, “Close, thirty nine, four chase guns are hidden in the bow, and there’s also a howitzer that we hide in the forecastle. But I have to say you’re cleaver for your years. What's your name lad?"
The colt smiled, "Jim Sir."
Captain Sail nodded, "Jimbo eh? Any plans on sailing the seas?”

The colt smiled as he replied, “Yea… I always hoped that one day I could join the Iron Pirates, but it looks like that won’t happen now… any chance you might recruit pirates in a few years? I promise I’m a hard worker.”
Hearing the comment about the Iron Pirates confused the two ponies, but before either of the officers could reply, another voice spoke up, “Now now little Jimbo, please don’t pester our guests. The two will be happy to answer any question you have later.”
The group of foals and pirates looked to Queen Novo as she and a few of her body guards trotted up as the foals bowed with respect with Jim replying “Apologies your majesty, we can come back later.”
The group looked at the Captain Sail as the same colt replied, “Thanks Captain, it was nice talking with you.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And I you lad.”

With that the group of foals flew off as Queen Novo smiled, “Charming and good with foals, I’m starting to think you’re too good for Siren.”
Captain Sail could only chuckle at the complement, “True as that may be, the lass would sooner kill me then give me the time a day.”
Queen Novo smiled, “She’ll come around eventually.”
Pinpoint asked, “Your majesty? What did the lads mean by, joinin’ the Iron Pirates?”
Queen Novo thought carefully as she replied, “The Iron Wing wasn’t always an enemy to this island. There was actually a time where it was always in the harbor.”
Captain Sail was curious, “Is that right? Then why the sudden change in stance? Was there a disagreement about somethin’?”
Continuing to carefully reply, Queen Novo spoke, “Sadly, we are unsure. It was recently that Iron Hoof started attacking ships. For what reason, we haven’t the slightest clue.”

Inside the temple, the priestess felt concerned as she replied, “Greek fire?… Are you sure?”
Siren replied, “I saw the flames myself. And it was Captain Sail’s master gunner who confirmed its use also.”
The priestess asked, “Perhaps he was mistaken.”
Siren shook her head, “That gunner could thread a needle with a howitzer if it were possible. I have no doubt that he identified the weapons perfectly.”
The priestess rubbed her head in irritation, “How did it come to this… That fire was only supposed to be used as the last resort for escape. To use it so willingly, and against our own. Its blasphemy of the highest order.”
Siren nodded, “And that’s why I will not spare him. My father is dead and now he attacks the island without mercy. He ruined every aspect of my life, so I intend on taking his.”

The priestess sighed as she replied, “I agree with your decision but I want you to be carful. You cannot let your thirst for vengeance take control. It’s apparent that Iron Hoof will not take any of our laws seriously anymore. Meaning he is now more dangerous than ever.”
With a heavy heart the priestess trotted to a window that overlooked the island as Siren nodded, “He got the better of me once. His mistake is he didn’t kill me when he had the chance.”
The priestess nodded as she looked over the town, “Let us hope he doesn’t redeem that mistake… but, just in case, what is your instruction should you fail.”
Siren Replied, “If I fall, I want the Queen to take my place. If anypony can keep it safe, it’s her.”

The priestess nodded, “Then… it shall be done. But… I do worry about where we found ourselves.”
Siren nodded, “I agree, the leviathan has forsaken us simply because it’s one of his ship that’s fighting us. I wish he would step in to take care of it. Then maybe my father would still be guardian.”
The priestess sighed, “The leviathan is our lord, and it is his will that this matter betwixt his subjects remain just that. If it were an attack from an outside party the leviathan would happily step in but his subjects must resolve maters within them.”
Siren sighed, “Some benevolent god.”
The priestess glared at Siren from the corner of her eye as she replied, “I'll pretend I didn’t hear that… now… about this Captain Sail.”
Brushing off the comment, Siren replied, “What about him?”

Priestess Aqua replied, “He knows about Home… what will you do once you two part ways?”
Siren replied with an unsure tone, “Captain Sail is a pirate, but from my understanding he is also a stallion of honor. If we respectfully request he keeps it secret, then he… probably will.”
The priestess glanced at the Bloody Tide through the window, “You don’t sound very confident.”
Siren nodded, “I can’t guarantee he will remain an ally once this is all over, if he discovers the truth, he may turn on us. Despite the Leviathan’s warning.”
Aqua sighed as she looked through the town, “When did things go so wrong, used to be we could glance at the sails of the Iron Wing sitting in the harbor and feel protected… now…”
Siren sighed, “We can still glance at sails and feel protected, they are just a different color then before.”
With nothing more to say, Siren turned and left the temple as Priestess Aqua nodded, “I hope you’re right.”

Outside the temple, Queen Novo was still talking with Captain Sail as Siren spoke, “Sorry, I took so long, just had to go through the usual lectures.”
Queen Novo replied with a smirk, “No worries, just say three hail marries and I’m sure the leviathan will forgive your sins.”
Siren chuckled sarcastically, “Oh har har, for your example, it would take well more than three for my sins to be forgiven’. Anyways… Captain? What’s say we make our way to the tavern. I’m willin’ to bet that that is where we will find the rest of your crew.”
Captain Sail smiled, “But we should probably stop somewhere else first. My crew may be at the tavern… but I have a good idea of where my gunner is.”

About thirty minutes later the group arrived at the coast as they looked to one of the coastal cannons. As soon as they saw the massive cannon they noticed Powder Keg hugging the large weapon as the gunner spoke, “It’s just as beautiful as she sounded…Seventeen feet and sixteen tons of power, firing a twenty-two hundred pound ball at a mile and a half rang. It… it brings a tear to my eye.”
Seeing this Captain Sail spoke, “Yep, I knew he would find his way here. That’s just the type of gunner he is.”
Hearing his captain, Powder Keg looked back and stoped hugging the weapon as he pointed at it, “Capt’n, look! It’s a Bombard, one of the largest cannons in the world. Can we get one, please?”
Captain Sail replied, “Now ya know if we get one, you will have to take care of it and feed it every day right?”
Powder Keg smiled, “All we need is enough powder and some cannon balls that are slightly smaller than three feet in diameter.”

Queen Novo giggled at the conversation as a guard standing next to the cannon replied, “Now hold on captain, I would highly suggest you say no to this.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Now now, we may be pirates but even I know to never turn a weapon onto one who sells me it. You and your own have nothing to worry from us.”
The guard shook his head, “That’s not it captain, the last time we mounted this to a ship, the recoil alone split her in two.”
Slowly Powder Keg approached the gun again as he hugged it, “More reason to get it… it will be a testament to the Crimson Pirates. It would drive even the Liviathan to flee in fear.”
Captain Sail rolled his eyes in hopelessness as he replied, “I doubt that, but if what he says is true, im gonna have to pass on that idea.we didn’t come all this way to deal one shot from a cannon and sink.”
Powder Keg argued, “But I promise I wouldn’t miss, we will happily take Iron Hoof with us.”

The group could only smile at the comment as the guard asked, “Iron Hoof?…” he looked at Siren, “So it’s true then? He’s turned against us?”
Siren’s expression became serious as she replied, “Not how you think, but Aye, we are going to hunt down the Iron Wing tomorrow.”
Trying to dodge the subject Siren looked at Captain Sail and spoke, “As amusing as your gunner’s obsession is, we should probably get to the tavern before the rest of your crew drink it dry.”
Not paying attention to what she told the guard, Captain Sail replied, “Aye, let’s be off then.” He looked at his gunner, “Mr. Keg, once you’re finished, you can meet us at the tavern. Just don’t be too late. I’ll need you for a lesson later.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye captain… I'll be with ya soon.”

Leaving his gunner behind, Captain Sail and the group of ponies along with their royal hippogriff and her company as she spoke, “That Mr. Keg is quite the eccentric isn’t he? A little odd even.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye, but he is the best gunner on the sea.”
Queen Novo looked at Pinpoint, “And you Mr. Point, you are truly a skilled navigator to find home so easily. Even ships that are native to these waters on occasion lose themselves to the erratic currents flowing between the islands.”
Pinpoint smiled, “Foals play to me your majesty, I’ve been navigatin’ the sea for many decades, so I’m accustomed to predicting tides and current shifts for curtain seas. It’s all about knowing where you are in the world and where the moon is. Even the youngest Navigator knows to keep this information in mind when traveling anywhere, especially into unfamiliar waters.”

Queen Novo smiled, “That’s impressive.” She looked at Captain Sail, “This is an interesting crew you’ve surrounded yourself with captain.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Of course they are, to hunt a ghost, you need the finest crew available to watch your back. And there is no finer crew then those I chose to surround myself with… I'll give ya a demonstration on their skills later to prove it.”
Pinpoint gave Captain Sail a confused look as Queen Novo nodded, “I look forward to it. By the way… what do you intend to do after you beat Iron Hoof?”
Captain Sail was curious, “What do ya mean?”
She replied, “Well is there a special mare waiting for you back where you come from?”

Pinpoint nodded as he smiled, “Aye there are… plenty of bonnie lasses ready to cut his throat when they see him again.”
Captain Sail have Pinpoint an annoyed look, “That’s a little harsh Mr. Point… to my knowledge there is only one who would do that… maybe five”
Queen Novo giggled as she replied, “So, you’re a regular womanizer aren’t you?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Now I wouldn’t say that. Let’s just say, if I had a bit for every lass waiting for me back at home, I'd have a hefty bill to pay.”
Siren gave Queen Novo an annoyed look, “What are you doing Novo?”
Queen Novo tried to look innocent, “What?... me?... I’m only checking your competition, that’s all.”
Siren could only give her an angry look as the group started entering the more populated part of Home.

As they continued Captain Sail looked through the streets at the town and its inhabitants. A majority of the town’s residents were hippogriff with very few ponies in sight though there was a mix of the two species. The town itself seem to have an older style look to it with wooden homes and businesses lined up on dirt streets that all seemed to lead either to the temple or the port. And though they were new to the island, there were very few who paid any mind to them as they trotted through the streets freely as if they were long time residents. Seeing this Captain Sail had to ask, “This island, how long has it been inhabited?”
Queen Novo replied, “Many centuries. This island is the original island that the hippogriff race began.”
Captain Sail nodded, “So how did it thrive? Being an empty spot on a map? How did it get supplies?”
Queen Novo smiled with pride, “The Hippogriff Kingdom, once we established a city in the mainland we were able to establish trade and commerce while keeping this island secret.”

Captain Sail smiled at the idea, “And secrecy allowed it to survive, this place seems so peaceful, I can hardly believe it’s where the Iron Wing makes port. Strange to think that a pirate I’ve been hunting for two decades was welcomed anywhere, let alone here.”
Siren gave Captain Sail a confused look, “What?... how did you?...” She glared at Queen Novo, “What did you tell him?...”
Queen Novo replied, “Only that the iron wing used to dock here. I didn’t tell him anything that you would need to worry about.”
Captain Sail cleared his throat to get their attention, “So, is this worrisome information… is it matters that threaten me or my crew? If so I would like to hear it.”
Both Queen Novo and Siren felt nervous as Siren replied, “A captain must keep the wellbeing of his crew in mind… I told you everythin’ you need to know to keep to that lesson captain.”
Although Captain Sail didn’t believe her, he still felt pride that she quoted one of his lessons as he replied, “If you say so lass.”

A few minutes later, the group reached a large building as they entered to see a large lobby full of drinking hippogriffs and pirates as everypony was merrily singing and drinking to life’s simple pleasures. As soon as the group entered, most of the pirates looked and cheered to their captain, but after that first moment, they each went back to their merriment and carried on as if the captain wasn’t even in the room. With that, the entering group trotted to an open table as a waitress trotted to them and asked, “What can I get ya’ll? Round of rum?... and a juice for her majesty?”
The group nodded as the Queen corrected, “Limon aid for me please”
The waitress replied, “Right away majesty.”
As she trotted off, Captain Sail looked to the pregnant hippogriff, “Good to see her majesty is thinkin’ bout her little one.”

Queen Novo placed her talon on her belly as she replied, “Of course… He or she will be the next king or queen of our kingdom someday. It will be the light of my life and someday the entire kingdom.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… a parent would only want the best for their foal. It’s only natural.”
Queen Novo asked, “And what of your parents captain? Where did you hail from?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I hail from Equestria. Horseshoe Bay to be more accurate.”
Siren smiled, “Captain Sail is from the illustrious Sail Family… nobles if you believe it.”
Queen Novo was surprised, “Nobles? Really? And what would drive a noble to piracy?”
The waitress brought the drinks as Captain Sail grabbed his mug and raised it high, “The sea has always beckoned me… AM I RIGHT LADS!?!”

Although they didn’t hear the conversation, the surrounding crew heard the question as they all cheered, “AYE!!!”
After that was called, the crew went back to their own business as Siren added, “Well, there was a little push into becoming a pirate… although I don’t know the full story to it. Rumor has it… Iron Hoof somehow drove you to the sea.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Possibly… what is the rumor amongst the crew lass?... What do me hardies say when their good ol’ captain isn’t present?”
Siren waved her hoof in a shaming sort of way, “Now now, a good captain won’t sell out his crew for anything… even coin.”
Captain Sail chuckled as he replied, “Aye… s’pose I’m teaching ya too well lass.”

Queen Novo asked, “So… you’re teaching Siren captaining lessons?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, I thought since her father died before she could learn it from him, that I should teach her. After all, she needs the skills if she wants to continue claiming herself as captain of the Lullaby. Though even if the ship is gone, she can still reclaim herself a new ship and crew… or is that against her guardian duties?”
Queen Novo gave him a curious look before smiling and replying, “Actually to continue as guardian, she is supposed to have a ship and crew.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Well… by the time we reach, and kill Iron Hoof. We will have made a proper captain out of her.” He called out, “AIN’T THAT RIGHT LADS!?!”
Once again the crew cheered, “AYE!”
Queen Novo asked, “Why exactly are you hunting Iron Hoof Captain?”
Pinpoint started to reply, “now that’s a matter best discussed at another ti-”
“He killed my father… so… I’m gonna return the favor.”

Everypony at the table were surprised, Siren and Novo for what he said, and Pinpoint for saying it so carelessly. Concerned, Siren replied, “Wait… he killed your father too?”
Captain Sail took a drink from his rum then replied, “Aye… little did you know lass, our reasons are the same, though I’m curtain you want him dead more since you also lost a ship and crew to him. But don’t think I’ll let up because of that. I’ve been hunting him for twenty years now, so I don’t intend on backing off just yet… though I should thank you, if not for your help, I wouldn’t have gotten this close, and now, tomorrow I get that chance.”
Siren put her hoof on her head as she mumbled, “Twenty years… it can’t be…”
With nopony able to hear her mumbling, Queen Novo nudged Siren as she spoke, “Looks like you two are even more alike than I thought. Perhaps he is the one.”
Siren sighed, “Novo, don’t start this again.”
Queen Novo shrugged her shoulders, “What? I’m just making sure you don’t grow into an old maid.”
Siren replied with a skeptic look, “You’re three months older than me.”
“And yet I’m married and with foal. But where does that leave you.”

Siren gave her an angry look, “Can we have a word… in private?”
Both Queen Novo and Siren stood up as they trotted to a corner of the room as Siren spoke as quietly as she could, “What are you doing?...”
Novo replied, “I’m just saying, you and he are alike. Perhaps it’s time you settle down. You can still have a family and be captain of the-“
Siren quickly covered her mouth as she whispered, “Don’t say it here… Look I appreciate it… but we can’t talk about this here. You heard him, His father was killed by Iron Hoof… MY Iron Hoof… if he finds out the truth, then there is no telling what he will do.”
Novo nodded, “Sorry… but… maybe if we tell him after Iron Hoof is dead he will forget it. After all, he is coming to us and asking for help to get his revenge. It’s the type of lesson I would love to teach my foal when it grows up. To help an outsider who asked for it would be a great lesson for a future king or queen of the Hippogriff Kingdom.”

Siren sighed as she replied, “Maybe…” She looked at Captain Sail then continued, “He may be a pirate but there is a noble side to him… if we play this right then there is a possibility of coming out of this unscathed.” She started to look back at her royal friend “Till then w-”
Siren looked back at her friend, but was silenced by the starry eyed mare as Queen Novo replied with a joyous look, “Noble… You do like him!”
Siren rubbed her head in annoyance, “Will you grow up already?... geez… It’s like talking to a wall… Just don’t bring up anything too close to the truth. I still need time to butter him up before breaking it to him.”
As the two started back, Captain Sail and Pinpoint were still enjoying their drinks as the two mares trotted back and sat down. After they got back, Captain Sail asked, “Everything alright lasses?”

Siren replied with an unenthusiastic tone, “More or less.”
Pinpoint spoke up, “Don’t take it personal lass, I’ve known the captain for many years and if anything I’ve tried to get him to settle down with a mare.”
Without any expression, Captain Sail picked up his mug and spoke before taking a drink, “Now’s not the time Mr. Point.”
Pinpoint and Queen Novo smiled at each other about their friends stubbornness as Powder Keg entered the room and called, “AIN’T THAT RIGHT LADS!”
Still reacting without knowing the details, the pirates raised their mugs as they called, “AYE!!!”
As everypony went back to their drinks Powder Keg smiled, “I love doing that.”

With a pleased smile, Powder Keg trotted to Captain Sail’s table as he pulled up a chair and sat down, “I’m back Capt’n, so what did I miss?”
Captain Sail replied, “Not much… but now that you’re here we can carry out the next lesson.”
Captain Sail looked at Siren, “Lass… though you may find it unsettlin’, it’s time to learn a lesson that is a Captain Sail original. That lesson is to always know your enemies more so then your allies… but if you’re ever questioning your allies… then learn about them too.”
Both Siren and Queen Novo’s expressions seemed confused as Captain Sail looked to Powder Keg and spoke, “Tell me what you found Mr. Keg?”
Powder Kegs expression also became concerned as he looked at the Queen’s guards then back at his captain as he asked, “Um… right here capt’n?”

Captain Sail nodded, “Aye lad, it’s a lesson for them too, so out with it. Tell use what you found.”
Powder Keg gave a bracing sigh as he replied, “Um… alright… well there are twenty-three cannon in the isles defenses. Seven-teen bombards, and six mortars, all arranged in formation to protect every edge of the coast from approximately three miles into the sea, however… there is a blind spot on the port.”
The guards started griping their weapons in preparation as Queen Novo replied, “A blind spot?”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye.” He looked at Pinpoint, “you got any charts of the isle?”
Pinpoint shook his head, “No I left them on the Tide. But here.” He pulled out a sheet of blank paper, you got any shot with ya?”
Powder Keg pulled a lead bullet from a pocked on his vest as he handed it to Pinpoint who then used it like a piece of chalk to draw a perfect outline of the island and its land features on that same sheet of paper. After he finished, he handed it to Powder Keg as he asked, “How’s this?”

Powder Keg smiled as he laid it flat on the table, “This’ll do...” He then took the bullet and preceded to mark on the map the locations and angles of every cannon he found as he spoke, “Each bombard is sittin’ with perfect angles to hit every part of the coast within three miles of the shore…” He drew a circle on the map, “But right here on the port, there is an opening. With the angle of each cannon, there is no possible way to hit a ship that pulls within this range of the coast and sits on this spot right here. Unless you intend of firing through a few of your own buildings.”
Powder Keg slid the sheet to Queen Novo as she looked at the details drawn and spoke with shock, “Amazing… a perfect sketch and setting of the island and its defenses… your crew is truly remarkable.”
Although Siren was angry with Captain Sail’s snooping, she decided to ignore it since the Queen was amazed by his work as the royal hippogriff continued, “If anypony can take down Iron Hoof it’s your crew. Speaking of which, how do you intend on doing it? I mean, how will you find Iron Hoof?”

Realizing that the order wouldn’t come, the guards released their sheathed weapons as Captain Sail replied, “Simple, I’m gonna act as bait.”
“Bait?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, earlier when we arrived ya said that Iron Hoof has been targeting every ship that enters or exits the port. So I’m gonna leave the port, sail out to the edge of the Leviathan Sea’s border then return. If what you say is true, then we have two chances to encounter him on that one voyage. And if we don’t, we will repeat it again. Sooner or later he will attack us so we will have the cannon ready by then. Tell them about it Mr. Keg.”

Powder Keg added, “If he is housing Greek fire on his ship, then he obviously has a reservoir for it. And since it’s highly flammable, it will be stowed in the bow, the safest place on any vessel. So, we are going to focus our fire on the bow. If we hit the reservoir, the fire will ignite and lite the ship like a candle. And that fire will be more than enough to cripple her ship and cause the crew to panic, and make mistakes with defenses.”
Queen Novo smiled, “Baiting a pirate, then using their weapon against them. I’ve never heard of such a tactic, but it is ingenious.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, but not common, so we should be at the ready before he encounters us. If he has been attacking ships for a while, then there is a chance he might be prepared for such a retaliation.”
Siren nodded as she took a drink then replied, “Prepared or not… we will get him back for everything he’s done. To the both of us.”

Captain Sail smiled at her words as he raised his mug, “We will lass, even if we die trying.” He called, “Ain’t that right lads!”
The crew mindlessly called again, “AYE!!!”
Smiling at their reaction, Queen Novo spoke, “Then you two will come back and will be married.” She called, “Ain’t that right lads!!!”
Once again the crew cheered, “AYE!!!”
Siren gave her an angry look as Queen Novo giggled before adding, “My, that is fun.”
Powder Keg raised his mug, “Carful majesty, it gets addictin’.”

The group of ponies and pirates continued drinking into the night, however as the night toned down, Captain Sail decided to leave the tavern early as he made his way towards the Bloody Tide to get some rest. As he continued alone, He was stopped by Priestess Aqua as the hippogriff spoke, “Captain… May I have a word please?”
Though Captain Sail was inebriated, he was still in the right sense of mind to function as he replied, “Sure… go for it miss… uh… sorry the name escaped me.”
The priestess sighed as she replied, “Well… perhaps it’s too late to speak… but, I want to say my peace. Captain… I’m sure you know we are lying to you about many things but… we aren’t doing it to hurt or belittle you.”
Captain Sail looked at his imaginary wrist watch as he replied, “Old news lass… can we speed this up a bit.”

The priestess continued, “What I’m trying to say is that despite all our lies, we are only trying to protect our livelihood. We truly don’t want any harm to come of you, your ship, or your crew. So if at any time you feel that you can’t trust any of us, please try to understand. The Leviathan and his treasure are all we have, and without his blessing, this little island would have perished many centuries ago. Just ple-“
Though his words were slurred and his actions unsteady, Captain Sail was able to place his hoof in front of his mouth as he interrupted, “Shush shush shush, Everypony, island, and culture has a right to their secrets lass, so if you hide stuff from me, I’m sure you have reasons. However… I rely on my crew and their continued loyalty. So if something comes along that threatens that loyalty, I will do what I must to keep that loyalty… so… I’m… gonna go lay down and sleep the rum away. So g’night majesty, I will see you three in the morning.”
Without even giving her the chance to correct him, Captain Sail stumbled passed the priestess as the mare sighed, “A pirate and his rum… Perhaps I should have waited for him to sober up first. I don’t know if any of my words sank in, but I hope they did.”
She watched Captain Sail leave as she mumbled, “Rely on the loyalty of his crew… He truly is like her father… I can see why she likes him.”

Ch11 White Flag over the Iron Wing

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The Bloody Tide slowly rocked amongst the waves as Powder Keg called from the crow’s nest, “Capt’n! Isle on the horizon! It’s the Leviathan’s!”
Captain Sail, Pinpoint, and Siren were on the top deck as Captain Sail looked passed the Bow at the Ice covered Isle and mumbled, “Back already, and no Iron Wing… S’pose we should make port at Home then try again.”
Siren sighed, “You think he recognized that this ship isn’t native to Home?”
Pinpoint nodded, “It’s possible.” He looked at Captain Sail, “What’s the call captain?”
Captain Sail turned back to his officer and replied, “As I said, we make port and then prepare to cast of again. It’s just the first try, so we can’t call this a fa-“
“CAPT’N! Mast on our stern!”

Almost immediately, everypony on the Bloody Tide turned to the back of the ship as they all looked to see a large frigate approaching from behind. Pinpoint pull out his spyglass and looked to the approaching ship as Captain Sail asked, “Well?...”
Pinpoint smiled, “See for yourself captain.”
Pinpoint passed the spyglass to his captain as Captain Sail looked at the approaching ship and focused on the ships Jolly Roger, “It’s him…” He lowered the spyglass and smiled, “Its Iron Hoof.”
Pinpoint took the spyglass as Siren spoke, “Good… lets strike the chime and sink em’ where they sit.”
Captain Sail was confused, “Chime?”
Realizing what she said, Siren felt nervous as she corrected himself, “Oh… um… nothing, just something my dad would say before a fight… I think it was supposed to be the sound of a cannon ball falling into a cannon or somethin’.”

Captain Sail brushed off the explanation as he replied, “Aye… let’s do this.” He looked over the ship, “Our mark is in the water lads… Let’s send her to the bottom of the sea!”
The crew cheered, “AYE!!!”
With that the crew rushed to their stations as Captain Sail called, “Strike the colors Mr. Keg!”
Powder Keg smiled, “AYE AYE CAPT’N!”
Captain Sail placed his focus on his rushing crew, “Load all Cannon! Solid in the galley, and grape on the main deck!” he looked at the helmscolt, “Bring her about and keep her steady, lets show our ghost that we ain’t afraid.”
The helmscolt smiled, “Aye Captain, bringin’ her about.”

Far off on the Iron Wing, A large red unicorn was standing on the forecastle watching the Bloody Tide through a spyglass as he mumbled, “She’s coming about?... that ain’t no transport.”
At that moment a shorter black stallion with a white mane stepped onto the deck as he spoke, “What are ya doing here Quartermaster?”
The Red Unicorn replied, “Capt’n? That ship we spotted ain’t a transport. She’s come about and is flyin’ a Roger… She’s a pirate ship from the main seas.”
Iron Hoof was confused, “What?... In the leviathan seas?” He grabbed the spyglass and looked at the Bloody Tide as he saw the colors and smiled, “Well would ya look at that, never thought I would ever see him on these waters.”
The Quartermaster asked, “Who is it capt’n?”
Iron Hoof turned away from his quartermaster, “A legend on the main seas.” He looked over his ship, “Stand down lads! Strike a white flag! I’ve been waitin’ a good while to meet this one, and I intend on makin’ good on my first impression.”

Back on the Bloody Tide Powder Keg called, “Um… Capt’n?... the Iron Wing… She’s flying a white flag.”
Captain Sail was confused, “What?”
Pinpoint took out a spyglass and looked at the Iron Wing as he nodded, “He’s right captain, a white flag. What do ya s’pose that’s about?”
Pinpoint passed the spyglass to Captain Sail as Siren spoke, “It’s a trick… it has to be. What reason would he have to meet with us?”
Captain Sail saw the flag and lowered the spyglass, “Not sure…” He called, “Mr. Keg! Raise the white flag, he wants to meet us then I'll oblige to it.”
Siren was surprised, “What? Don’t tell me you’re falling for his trick.”
Captain Sail replied, “A white flag is an invokement of parlay, though parlay isn’t officially part of any recorded pirate code, I feel that any who wish to barter for their lives have the right to be heard.”

Siren was amazed at what she heard as she replied, “You’ve got to be kidding me… Now, of all times you choose to act civilized?”
Captain Sail nodded with a serious expression, “You know me too well to assume that lass. As I said, I’m only going to hear what he has to say. What happens afterwards… depends on him.”
Pinpoint approached Captain Sail, “Alright then, a meeting… is there a timer on it?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… Ten minutes and not a second more.”
Pinpoint replied as he started to leave, “Aye Captain, I'll pass it on.”
Before he was out of earshot, Captain Sail added, “Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint stopped as Captain Sail repeated with a serious tone, “Not, one second more… understood?”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain.”
With that Pinpoint stepped down onto the main deck as Siren asked, “What was that about?”
Captain Sail replied, “You’ll see.” He called up to Powder Keg, “When you’re done with that flag, get down here! I’m gonna need you to help set the timer!”

As the two ships started to approach one another, Captain Sail had the Helmscolt pull the Bloody Tide alongside the Iron Wing so that the two ships could be tied together. As both pirate ships neared each other, grappling hooks from both vessels flew to the other as the crews pulled the ships together before tying the port side railings of the Bloody Tide to the Iron Wing’s port side leaving both ships to be facing in opposite directions. Now that both ships were tied, the Iron Hoof Pirates and the Crimson Pirates stared at the opposing crew as the air became full of tension. Ready for their meeting, Captain Sail, Pinpoint and Powder Keg met at the port side railing as they looked across to the Iron Wing’s crew as they saw the black stallion and red unicorn approach the railing on the opposite ship. As they stood there, Captain Sail spoke to his two officers, “The Lass and I will go meet him… you two stay here and keep your eye on them… and the time. And remember, time starts as soon as we leave your sight got it?”
Powder Keg nodded, “Rear to front captain… just listen for the first shot.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good lad.”

With that, Captain Sail and Siren stepped onto the tied railings of the two ships then onto the Iron Wing. As soon as they stepped onto the Iron Wing’s deck, a metal on metal chime was heard as Captain Sail looked down to see that Siren’s metal horseshoes made the noise when she stepped onto the iron plating that was nailed to the deck along the inside of the ships side railings. After he saw what made the noise Captain Sail disregarded it as he looked forward to see both Iron Hoof and his Quartermaster standing in front of him surrounded by the pirates of the Iron Wing. As Iron Hoof saw him, he smiled, “Well, this be a treat for all senses. Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail, The crimson ghost hunter himself, and aboard my ship of all places. Welcome aboard, the Iron Wing Captain Sail.”
Captain Sail kept a casual expression as he replied, “Much appreciated… and might I assume you are who I suspect?”
Iron Hoof smiled as he bowed in a noble way, “A thousand pardons captain, my name is Captain Iron Hoof, Captain of the Iron Wing and, your ghost as it would seem.”

Captain Sail gave him an emotionless stare as Iron Hoof replied to his stare, “Is there something wrong captain? You appear as if you were trapped in thought.”
Captain Sail nodded, “You’re an earth pony… and barley my age no less.”
Iron Hoof was curious, “Aye I am… is that a problem?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Not at all, I just assumed that a captain well over three hundred years old would be something immortal… an alicorn, dragon… maybe even a demon.”
Iron Hoof smiled at the comment, “Well as flattering as demon sounds, I don’t s’pose you think an alicorn could possibly sail any finer than an earthpony could?”
Captain Sail smiled, “S’pose not…”

Iron Hoof looked at Siren as he smiled, “And speakin’ of immortal… Welcome back Siren. I don’t s’pose you finally came to your senses and return to join my crew did ya? You would be wise to finally see it my way and sail alongside Iron Hoof.”
Siren replied with a disgusted look, “Sorry… but you haven’t earned that title… Sabastian.”
Captain Sail gave her a confused look as Iron Hoof only replied with a smile and a brief moment of silence. All of a sudden, the moment was broken as Iron Hoof swung his hoof hitting Siren on her face as the impact knocked her to the deck. As soon as he saw the punch, Captain Sail started to step forward in an attempt to reflexively fight back, but before he could plant his hoof, he realized his actions as he stopped himself before any of the ponies watching could notice.

As Captain Sail acted casual to his missed action, something caught his eye. As Iron Hoof lowered his hoof, Captain Sail saw something familiar. It was a metal horseshoe, nailed directly onto his hoof, no different from Siren’s. Without bringing attention to himself, Captain Sail paned his eyes to the Quartermaster’s hooves to see if he had the same horseshoes, but when he saw that the quartermaster didn’t have them, he put two and two together and didn’t like the answer. With the rest of the group’s attention still on Iron Hoof’s assault, Iron Hoof looked to Captain Sail and spoke, “Apologies for having to witness that captain. Though I’m sure you know as well as I, that anytime a sailor refuses to address you with your proper title, that they need to be made and example of.”
Still annoyed with his discovery, Captain Sail replied with an almost disrespectful tone, “I understand Captain, a sailor must respect the captain of whom’s ship she stands.”

Noticing that his words were directed at her, Siren looked up at Captain Sail as she picked herself up and wiped the blood from her lip. After she was back up Captain Sail looked back to Iron Hoof, “So… Captain Iron Hoof? To what do I owe this pleasure of being invited aboard the Iron Wing?”
Iron Hoof smiled, “Of course, for that we should retire to my quarters where we can discuss this in a more secure settin’. This way.”
With that Captain Iron Hoof, lead Captain Sail towards the captain’s cabin as Pinpoint watched from the Bloody Tide as he saw Iron Hoof and mumbled, “That Stallion… he looks familiar but… where have I seen him before?”
As soon as they reached the cabin door, Iron Hoof, Captain Sail, and Siren entered as Iron Hoof’s quartermaster waited outside the door as if he were a posted guard.

Inside Iron Hoof’s quarters, Captain Sail, Siren and Iron Hoof sat at a table, as Captain Sail spoke first, “Alright… what is this about Captain? If you know who I am, then surely you know that inviting me aboard your ships isn’t very wise.”
Iron Hoof smiled, “Aye, many in my situation would think me mad, but meeting’ a sailor of your reputation is a privilege that can’t be missed.”
Captain Sail was confused, “My reputation?”
Iron Hoof nodded, “Aye, I’m not a native to the Leviathan Seas, in fact I was born outside on Pirate Cove, and I of all ponies know the stories of Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail.”
Captain Sail was confused, “What?”
Iron Hoof continued, “Your very sails put fear into those who see em’. And all who sail the sea know that if they surrender to those sails, that you will spare their lives in return. So quite literally, all who see you surrender on sight. A reputation like that… it’s what most pirates dream of. Pillagin’ and plunderin’ by attendance alone. And it’s for that reason I wanted to speak with you.”

Captain Sail tried to understand what was going on as he spoke, “That explains why you know me… but flatterin’ as is, it leaves my question unanswered.”
Iron Hoof replied, “Sure, well what I was getting at is I wanted you to hear a proposition. A sailor such as yourself would be a fine addition to what my plans are for the future of pirates everywhere. What I’m proposing is, you sail your Bloody Tide, as part of my Iron Fleet.”
Siren replied in surprise, “Did you say fleet?”
Iron Hoof replied, “Calm yourself lass… you heard me right. The era of pirates is slowly diminishin’ but I intend to bring it back. Soon I’ll start putin’ together a fleet, of the seas’ finest pirates. With them, we will establish a nation on the sea itself. Why must we pirates only control a hidden cove, when we are the true rulers of the seas? I will rule the seas… and you, captain sail, can have your share of its riches.”

Siren shook her head in disbelief, “You can’t be serious? You’re talking about claiming the sea as your own… ya realize how crazy that sounds?”
Iron Hoof shook his head, “Come now Siren, there is place for you too in this. You can sail with the good captain here. After all, you are the guardian of what we need to truly begin taking back the seas. We can always welcome ya back… in exchange for that treasure of yours. With that, we will truly become a fleet that the world will fear. Nopony, god or mortal, will ever threaten us. We will rule the seas, and not just the main seas, the Atlantian, the Equestrian, even the Leviathan. We will have rule over everything the waves touch. To include their treasures.”
Siren stood up in anger, “I knew it… this isn’t about a fleet at all is it?... You want the Leviathan’s treasure. And because of that you betrayed my father and the Isle of Home? You’re a disgrace to this ship, its colors, and to pirates everywhere!”

Outside on the upper deck of the Bloody Tide, Pinpoint and Powder Keg watched the crew of the Iron Wing closely as the helmscolt looked at Pinpoint and spoke, “Sir… Ten minutes is up.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Then it’s time to call it.” He looked at Powder Keg, “Give the order Mr. Keg.”
Powder Keg didn’t feel comfortable, “What about the captain?”
Pinpoint replied, “The captain said not one second more… he knows the risk… now give the order.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Sir.”
With that Powder Keg rushed down from the top deck, stopped at each cannon crew, quietly gave them instructions, then moved on to the next. Seeing this, the quartermaster of the Iron Wing started to get suspicious as he turned to knock on the door to the Captain’s quarters.

Moments ago Inside the captain’s quarters, tension couldn’t be higher as Iron Hoof replied to Siren’s outburst, “Now now lass, I think you of all ponies have no place to speak of morals… after all, you arrive here with Captain Sail… so I’m assumin’ you ain’t been very honest with the good captain… have ya?”
Siren’s expression became nervous, “I… I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Iron Hoof replied with a sinister smiled, “Aww, you’ve chosen to keep that little tale to yourself haven’t you? The tale of a voyage you took, say… twenty some-odd years ago?”
Captain Sail looked at Siren, “What is he saying?”
Siren started nervously replaying, “I… um… well…”
Iron Hoof continues, “You know the one… the voyage you took, aboard the Iron Wing before I became Iron Hoof. I believe it was the day we met.”

Siren replied in anger, “You are NOT Iron Hoof!!! You’re nothing but a snake! Slithered in her in a barrel like the coward you are and if it wasn’t for me, we would have tossed you back into the sea like the rest!”
Iron Hoof smiled “Aye, and I repaid your kindness when I chose to let you live. So as far as I’m concerned my conscious is clea-”
All of a sudden a knock was heard on the door, “Um… Captain? Something is happening aboard Sail’s ship.”
Iron Hoof looked to the door, “What do you mea-”
Before he could finish, Captain Sail interrupted as he stood up, “I suppose now is as good a time as any to give you my answer to your proposal.”
Iron Hoof and Siren looked at him in confusion as Captain Sail continued, “I set out twenty years ago with only one purpose in mind. In doing so, I’ve branded myself a criminal, destroyed the marriage that I would have had, sunken ship after ship, and killed many a sailor all to get the chance to take your head as prize. And now that I’m here, you say that I should spare you in exchange to sail under your flag and assist in establishing a new kingdom… but you forget captain… that a pirate will never sail under a kingdom nor any flag other than his own.”

At that moment aboard the Bloody Tide, Powder Keg reached the bow of the ship as he turned to face the cannon crews and called, “From rear to front! All cannon! FIRE!!!”
At that moment, with half second intervals, all the cannons on the Bloody Tide fired off starting with the one in the stern all the way down towards the bow, as the cannons on the main deck sent a cluster of grape shot out injuring and killing many Iron Hoof pirates as the cannons in the galley sent solid cannon balls into the Iron Wing damaging the ship while destroying vital cargo. After the back few cannons fired, Captain Sail quickly spoke as fast as he could, “I decline the offer!”
Without leaving any time between his last word and his actions, Captain Sail jumped towards Siren and tackled her to the floor as the firing cannons finally reached the aft castle of the Iron Wing. As the cannon outside the Iron Wing’s aftcastle went off, nine miniature cannonballs shattered the wall as lumber from the ship’s hull flew in leaving a sharpened piece of wood to hit Iron Hoof in his face knocking him to the floor as the rest of the room was filled with flying cannon shot and splinters that barely missed Captain Sail and Siren as they took cover on the deck.

Wasting no time, The Iron Pirate’s quartermaster drew his sword as he quickly ran down the railing cutting all the lines that tied the two vessels together as he called, “OPEN ALL SAILS AND GET TO STATIONS!!!”
Quickly reacting, the few Iron Hoof pirates that managed to get out of the attack without wounds climbed into the yardarms as they unrolled the sails as fast as they could. As soon as the sails caught wind, the Iron Wing jerked forward and away from the Bloody Tide as Captain Sail picked himself up and looked through the massive hole in the cabin wall as he spoke, “Quickly back to the Tide!”
Reacting to the order, both Siren and Captain Sail rushed to the hole in the wall and jumped through just in time to land on the Bloody Tide’s main deck as both ponies landed and rolled a few feet before stopping.

As soon as they stopped rolling, Captain Sail stood up and turned to the Iron Wing, “FIRE!!! SINK THE IRON WING!!!”
By the time this order was called a number of the previously fired cannons were already reloaded as they fired a second volley leaving one cannonball to hit the Iron Wing’s rudder disabling the rudder chain and making steering impossible for the ship. Seeing that their foe was now immobilized, Captain Sail quickly rushed up to the top deck as he called, “We got her where we want her lads! She’s dead in the water! Now let’s finish her! Open the sails and bring her about! Aim for her bow and light her Greek fire!”
Glad that the attack disrupted the previous conversation, Siren started assisting the gun teams as they quickly reloaded the cannons while the rest of the crew rushed to release the sails and catch up to the enemy’s vessel.

On the Iron Wing, Iron Hoof climbed out of the rubble as he pulled a large piece of broken wood from his left eye socked then covered his fresh wound and called in anger, “Quartermaster!!!”
Seeing his captain climbing out of the damage aftcastle, the quartermaster and a number of sailors rushed to their captain as one pulled some bandages from a pouch, “Captain!... We need to get that treated at once.”
Reacting out of anger Iron Hoof grabbed and yanked the bandaged out of his surgeon’s hooves as he quickly wrapped them around his head to cover his bleeding eye socket as he called, “Where is he? Where is Captain Sail?”
The quartermaster replied, “He escaped and is back aboard his ship, he also disabled the rudder, and is coming up on us fast.”
Iron Hoof replied, “We can’t fight him like this… Wake up the Leviathan.”
The crew was shocked to hear the order as the quartermaster spoke, “Captain… what your saying is blasphemy… your talking about fir-“

Before he could reply, Iron Hoof with one hoof covering his bandaged wound, used the other front hoof to gesture his quartermaster closer, “Come her I need to tell you something.”
Doing as he was told, the quartermaster came closer, but just as he got close enough, Iron Hoof reached out and grabbed the officer by the back of his head before picking up the same piece of wood he pulled out of his eye and jamming it into the throat of the sailor he was talking to, “I said, wake up the leviathan… I don’t need any excuses… now DO IT!!!”
Pulling the steak from his quartermaster’s throat, Iron Hoof watched as his most trusted officer fell to the deck wheezing before bringing the stake down on his head and silencing the red unicorn’s final breaths. Shocked at what their captain did, the surrounding crew stared at their captain for a second as Iron Hoof looked to them and screamed, “NOOOOOWWWW!!!!!!”
Fearful for their lives the crew rushed to follow orders as the next-in-line officer called, “Ready the mortar and target the Leviathan Isle! Quickly lads quickly!”
As the crew quickly readied the mortar, Iron Hoof trotted towards the ships railing as he stomped his hoof on the iron plating as it created a loud chiming sound alerting the rest of his crew to get to their battle stations.

Back aboard the Bloody Tide, the Ship started to approach their stuck prey as Captain Sail called, “We need to target the bow just above the waterline! Make the shots count and be ready for incoming projectiles, and… FIRE!!!”
Just as the Bloody Tide started to close in on the Iron Wing, the cannons fired off from both ships as the Bloody Tide took damage on its port side while the Iron Wing took damage all along the bow of their ship. Shortly after all the cannon balls hit the Iron Wing, Flames started spewing from the holes left behind as the Iron pirates on the bow of the ship scrambled to get to safety and to put out the fire. Seeing this, the crew of the Bloody Tide cheered as Captain Sail called, “Good work lads, now let’s get in close and drag her under the waves!”
The Crimson pirated held their smiles of pride as they readied new grappling hooks to try to reboard the Iron Wing. But as they did, a loud shot echoed from the Iron Wing as a small number of sparks was seen flying upwards from what’s left of the upper deck.

Seeing this silenced the cheers of the Crimson Pirates as they all watched in confusion at what had happened aboard the Iron Wing. However the next sound didn’t come from their defeated foe, instead it echoed far off from the Leviathan’s island as the mortar shell came down hitting and shattering one of the massive arcs of ice that incased the landmass, as the large arc shattered and fell in leaving a large hole in what was once considered a dome over the island. Seeing this greatly worried the crew of both ships as Siren rushed to the railings and spoke, “No… he… he didn’t?”
With everypony including the Iron Pirates frozen in shock, the area became still and quiet before being shaken with a loud, ferocious, and angry roar as the leviathan flew through the massive hole in his sanctuary and vanished into the sky as the partially cloudy weather immediately turned to dark overcast.

As this happened, Captain Sail looked at the changing weather as he spoke, “He can change the weather too… this just took a wrong turn.” He called over the deck, “All hooves bring in the sails and secure your lifelines!!!”
Reacting to the order, everypony aboard the Bloody Tide quickly grabbed a rope and tied it around their torsos, then tied the other end to the ships masts as they all did what they could to make sure they and their fellow shipmates were secured. Then just as the sails were brought in and the last line secured, The Leviathan dove down from the sky and leveled himself just a few feet over the sea as the massive titan started charging head on at the Bloody Tide from about a mile away miles away. Seeing the titan closing the distance, Captain Sail called, “The titan is coming!!!”
With that, everypony on the ship looked to the massive deity as the Leviathan turned his body sideways and opened his mouth with an impression that he was going to eat the Bloody Tide with one charging bite.

Caaptain Sail watched the titan close in on him as he called over the ship, “Everypony brace for impact!”
With that order, everypony on the ship with their lifelines secured grabbed onto anything they could as the massive titan finished closing the distance and approached the ship at an astonishing speed. As the Titan’s now horizontal jaws passed by both sides of the Bloody Tide, the Leviathan’s body quickly turned to water as the ship was hit by the liquid body with a feeling as if the ship was pulled under water and was trapped in a fast moving current that crossed from the stem to the stern. Holding on for dear life, the crew of the Bloody Tide did everything they could as the waters rushed over the decks picking up unsecured cargo, and tossing it over the upper deck as it flew over Captain Sail and off the back of the Bloody Tide.

Finally after about a full minute of the rushing current, the last of the water passed as the Leviathan reformed into flesh and dove into the sea before vanishing amongst the waves. As soon as the titan was gone, the crew of the Bloody Tide released whatever support they were holding onto as they all coughed to get air after the momentary submerging they all went through. As soon as he was done coughing, Captain Sail looked around as he started to speak, “Mr. Point… check the crew make su-”
Before he could finish, Captain Sail looked around to find that not only did the Titan vanish without a trace, but so too did the titans Isle and the Iron Wing. Confused Captain Sail looked around as he spoke, “What?... where is?...”
Pinpoint looked around and spoke, “We… we were transported. The Leviathan must have taken us far from his island.”
Captain Sail replied with an angry tone, “Where?...”
Pinpoint shook his head, “I’m… not sure captain.”
Captain Sail looked in every direction, as his mind raced with frustration. As he looked in all the direction he slowly realized the hard truth, that not only did they lose themselves… but they lost the Iron Wing. As soon as his mind started to accept this, Captain Sail broke out in a fit of rage, “NO!!! IT’S GONE!!! WE HAD HIM!!! WE HAD HIM IN OUR GRASP!!! THAT SLIMY SCURVY SERPENT TOOK HIM FROM US! HE WAS RIGHT HERE! WE HAD HIM ON HIS KNEES! BLAST YOU YA FLYING GRASS SNAKE!!! BLAST YOU THROUGH ALL NINE CIRCLES OF HELL!!!”

Pinpoint was surprised, he had never seen Captain Sail so angry as the rage filled captain slammed his front hooves on the ships railing and closed his eyes to try and calm himself down. Finally as his breathing calmed down, he remembered something as he opened his eyes, “Twenty years ago…”
Though his rage was still present, Captain Sail was able to calm himself enough to remove it from his expression as he stepped away from the side railing and looked over his ship as the crew on the main deck tried to recover from the mess they just went through. As they all started to recover they looked to their captain as he narrowed his eyes on the one pony that he wanted to talk with. On the main deck, Siren was untying her lifeline as she finished coughing up the last bit of water before looking around the deck to see what was happening around her. As she looked to the upper deck, she made eye contact with Captain Sail as he spoke with a tone that scared her, “Lass!!! Make yourself know and step forward…”

Nervous, Siren started trotting towards the upper deck as Captain Sail watched with an expression that made everypony aboard feel slightly worried for her safety. As Siren started reaching an opened area between the mast and the upper decks Captain Sail stopped her, “That’s close enough lass.”
Following the instructions, Siren stopped as she stood and waited for Captain Sail to speak. Confused, Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail and noticed that although his rage was held from his expression, he could see Captain Sail’s muscles tense with anger as even Pinpoint started to feel worry for the mare on their ship. With the ship confused Captain Sail spoke calmly and loudly enough for all the crew to hear, “Ever since you’ve been aboard this ship, I’ve been curious about many things with you lass. The way you fight, the way you carry yourself and of them all, why you have metal horseshoes nailed to the bottom of your hooves… though metal as always the term I focused on… I should have focused on what they truly are… Iron on your Hoof… am I wrong lass?”
The crew became shocked as they looked at Siren as she started to speak, “Captain… I-“
“Shut up…”

Captain Sail’s tone became even more intimidating as he continued, “I brought you aboard my ship to help me find Iron Hoof… But now… I’m startin’ to wonder if you are just as bad as he is… or possibly more so.”
Siren didn’t reply, instead she hung her head in shame as he sighed, “As I thought… Seize her…”
With that a number of sailors rushed up and grabbed Siren before slamming her onto the deck and tying her hooves as one spoke, “What should we do with her captain?”
Other sailors started talking, “I say we fodder her now.”
“Aye… put her head in a cannon and watch her eyes part.”
“I say we string her up here. Watch as she dances the hempen gig high over the Tide.”
“Aye, or gag her in place. Only this time we will keep her over the water to watch as the shell explodes.”
“How about we just put a ball and chain on her and dump her over the deepest part of the ocean. That way she will have to prey she drowns before the sea crushed her like a grape.”

With her head held up by her mane and her hooves tied, Siren could only listen to the suggestions that the Crimson Pirates were saying around her as Captain Sail held his silence and allowed her to hear all the horrifying ways to kill her. As he held his silence, Pinpoint spoke, “Captain… what do you propose?”
Hearing their quartermaster, the crew went silent as all eyes locked on Captain Sail as they all waited for the order. With the silence, Captain Sail made eyes contact with Siren as he replied, “Mr. Keg…”
Taking it as an order, Powder Keg stepped through the herd as he replied, “Aye capt’n...”
With that the gunner raised his musket and pointed it at the side of Siren’s head at point blank range, but before he could press the firing lever, Captain Sail continued, “Take her dagger from her… then take her to the brig…”
All of a sudden, the entire crew’s expression became confused as Powder Keg lowered his musket and replied, “Pardon capt’n? Did you say… the brig?”
Captain Sail replied “Aye… and I’m placing you as the guard… Nopony is to go near her unless I’m with them… understood?”

Confused, Powder Keg nodded, “Uh… a-aye capt’n… I'll take her to the brig then…”
With that Powder Keg drew her dagger and lead the way as the sailors holding Siren dragged her away without any sign of struggle or resisting. As soon as she was out of sight, Pinpoint asked, “Captain… in twenty years, you’ve never sent anypony to the brig before, not even one… What are you going to do to her?”
Captain Sail replied with anger, “That depends on what she tells me… according to Iron Hoof… She was there.”
Pinpoint was confused, “There captain?”
Captain Sail looked at his quartermaster, “She was there the day the Annabelle sank, and my father died. You didn’t happen to see her by chance did you?”
Pinpoint shook his head, “No captain… I didn’t see her… but…”
Captain Sail turned completely to Pinpoint, “But?...”

Pinpoint replied with a serious expression, “I did see Iron Hoof… that black stallion.”
Captain Sail was annoyed, “And you’re just now remembering? You could have saved us plenty of time searching if you only tol-”
“No captain… it’s not what you think, he wasn’t aboard the Iron Wing… he was aboard the Annabelle.”
Captain Sail was now confused, “What?”
Pinpoint replied, “I was only the navigator so I didn’t know him by name, but he was the cabin boy working in the cargo bay. He was much younger back then though I almost didn’t recognize him.”
Captain Sail tried to think to himself, “So… he isn’t Iron Hoof?... then… Who is?”
Pinpoint shrugged his shoulders, “I’m not sure captain… but if anypony knows the truth… it’s Siren.”
Captain Sail nodded his head, “Then she will be of used to us still… how long will it take for you to find out where we are?”

Pinpoint shook his head, “About an hour or so, it all a matter of gatherin’ my charts and sextant. As soon as I find our location we can be ready to sail… let’s just hope our supplies will be subtle till the next port… wherever it is.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Then I'll leave you to it. Order the crew to focus on tending to wounds and damages. Then when they are done, I want minimum workloads. We all just went through an ordeal, and I for one would like to take a moment to calm my nerves.”
Captain Sail started trotting down the steps to go to his cabin as Powder Keg spoke, “And the lass captain?”
Captain Sail replied, “She ain’t going nowhere. Keep Powder Keg as the guard and be sure nopony, gets near her. Once I take a breather I'll deal with her personally.”

Ch12 The Truth About Iron Hoof

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The crew of off duty pirates sat gathered around a barrel and lantern as one spoke, “I’m telling ya the captain’s gone soft… I’ve been sailing with him for almost eighteen years and he ain’t ever placed a single pony in the brig. Everypony that’s crossed him was either punished or killed right there on the deck.”
Another pony replied, “I don’t know… did you see how angry the captain was? I don’t think I’ve ever seen him like that… then that glare he gave her afterwards… I tell ya if looks could kill, she’d be six feet under right now.”
The first sailor replied, “Angry or not, we can’t overlook this so easily. How many of us were executed right then and there as soon as the captain found out about their actions? And yet the lass is still breathin’ I tell ya somthin’ needs to be done.”
Another sailor shushed him, “Shut your gob… ya realize If capt’n heard ya talkin’ like that, he’d cut out your tongue. If ya don’t like it, why don’t ya do somethin’ bout it? The lass is in the brig, go down there and deal with her yourself.”

Another sailor shook his head, “Good luck with that, t’ween Mr. Keg and his musket you’d have a better shot attempting a mutiny. I respect him, but that gunner’s a loose cannon… pun intended.”
An unexpected voice replied, “Aye… sometimes I wonder if he’s protecting the captain from you lot… or if it’s the captain protecting you from Mr. Keg.”
All of a sudden everypony in the room looked to the doorway as they saw Pinpoint standing there with an unamused expression on his face. As soon as they saw him everypony in the room quickly straitened their stance as one spoke, “M-Mr. Point… I… I’m… just blowing off steam is all… I… I meant no disrespect.”
Another pirate spoke, “We’re… just worried… a-about the Captain… he just… hasn’t seemed like his usual self lately. If we were to guess, it’s because of that mare.”

Pinpoint replied with an annoyed tone, “Captain has matters of his own to deal with just as you have yours… S’pose you should worry more about yourself and less about what Captain Sail decides to do with the lass. Now if you lot are done, clearing the air from below deck… Captain has ordered us to the top to get ready to sail.”
The crew nodded as they replied, “Aye sir!”
Hopping the conversation was forgotten, the crew quickly filed out of the room as fast as they could as they rushed to the stairs and up onto the main deck. As soon as the last of the crew was out of the room, Pinpoint looked to the doorway they exited as he spoke, “Did you hear what you wanted to captain?”
At that moment, Captain Sail stepped out from behind the doorway as he replied, “That’ll do… funny they rushed passed me without noticing I was leaning against the outside of the doorway.”

Pinpoint smiled, “They were averting eye contact with me. They know what they did, and now they will watch their steps, since they know I’m onto them”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good, so any attempt to harm the lass has been averted.”
Pinpoint nodded, “for them anyways… but what about you?”
Captain Sail held up a bottle of rum as he replied, “That depends.”
Seeing the bottle Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… a talk then?”
Captain Sail nodded, “S’pose I may get the truth from her this time, it may save her life. By the way, have you discovered our location yet?”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… we are a ways outside of the Leviathan Sea. Easily two days travel from Home.”

Captain Sail nodded, “and what’s the next closest port?”
Pinpoint felt a little confused, “Well… we are about twelve hours from Zebabwee, in Zebrica. But… shouldn’t we return to finish Iron Hoof?”
Captain Sail replied, “We need a good reason first.”
Pinpoint turned to his captain and started to reply, “Good reason?... Captain we need t-“
“Mr. Point…”
Hearing the anger in his captain’s tone, Pinpoint silenced himself as he replied, “Aye captain?”
Captain Sail replied with the same anger, “You’re forgetting your place.”
Pinpoint didn’t like the way his captain was talking, but rather than argue, Pinpoint replied, “Apologies captain…”
Captain Sail disregarded the conversation as he continued, “For now tell the cook to prepare supper, dusk is on us, and I would prefer the crew be well rested and fed before setting a course.”
Captain Sail turned towards the door as Pinpoint nodded, “Aye, aye captain, I'll see to it.”
After that both stallions left the room as Pinpoint trotted up the stairs to the main deck, while Captain Sail trotted down another set of stairs towards the ship’s brig.

Down below, Powder Keg stood outside a locked door as Captain Sail approached and asked, “Mr. Keg? How’s our first prisoner?”
Powder Keg replied, “Silent as the grave capt’n. Every now and then I check on her to see if she is still there, but all she’s done is sit in the corner of the cell moping. Have you decided what to do with her capt’n?”
Captain Sail held up the bottle of rum as he replied, “That’s to be determined…”
Seeing the bottle, Powder Keg replied with a serious tone, “Capt’n, I don’t trust this mare anymore… but you know I'll stand by whatever decision you make, just… make it wisely, capt’n.”
Captain Sail nodded with an unamused tone, “I’ll be fine… you should worry about her.”

Powder Keg, unlocked the door and held it open as Captain Sail started to enter, “At no time will anypony enter or exit this room without my say so… no matter what you hear, understand?”
Powder Keg nodded his head as he replied, “Aye capt’n, I understand.”
With that Captain Sail nodded, and he fully entered the room, “Good… now close the door and lock it behind me.”
Powder Keg nodded his head as he closed the door behind him while Captain Sail listened for the door to lock. After hearing the door lock, Captain Sail turned back to the rest of the brig to see two cells with metal bars built with the side hull of the ship providing the back wall of both. As he looked into the closest cell, he could see Siren sitting against the back corner as she looked up in response to the sound of the locking door, but as soon as she saw Captain Sail, she lowered her head back down in disregard of his presence.

Seeing this Captain Sail started trotting closer as Siren spoke without looking up at him, “What are you doing here… aren’t you busy trying to think of some horrifying way to kill me so that your crew can become even more afraid of betraying you then they already are?”
As Captain Sail approached the bars to her cell, he placed the bottle of rum down on the floor between the bars so that if she wanted to, she could take the bottle, as he replied, “I was… but then I already decided on how I was going to do it.”
Siren looked up at Captain Sail as she saw the bottle and replied, “What’s that?... some sort of peace offering?”
Captain Sail turned away and started trotting towards a chair sitting in the corner of the room as he replied, “It would be… assuming I wanted to establish peace… but until I get answers that I agree with… there will be no peace between us lass.”

Siren stood up and trotted to the bottle as she looked down at it and replied, “So… it’s poison then… isn’t it?”
Captain Sail picked up a chair and started back to the cell as he replied, “Some would agree… but to me… it’s just rum.”
Siren watched as Captain Sail returned to the bars as he set up the chair outside the cell and sat down in it, as she replied, “You truly live up to the pirate name don’t you?… Makin’ a mare drink her own poison… that’s cold, even for you.”
Captain Sail gestured towards the bottle, “You sayin’ ya don’t want it?”
Siren pushed the bottle away as she replied, “I may be in a pickle… but I ain’t so broken as to take my own life. I still have some pride.”

Captain Sail smiled as he picked up the bottle, pulled the cork out, and took a swig before replying, “Suits yourself lass.”
Confused, Siren watched as Captain Sail placed the bottle back between the bars as she pointed at it and spoke, “Wait… what’s this about?”
Captain Sail smiled, “This lass… is a lesson that predates even myself. One that… my father taught me, a long time ago.”
Siren picked up the bottle, as she replied, “Your father… and… the lesson is?”
Captain Sail gestured to the bottle telling her to take a drink as Siren took a swig. As soon as she tasted the rum, Siren coughed in surprise as she replied, “Wow… that’s strong… and… much better than the grog we get at port. What is this?”

Siren passed the bottle back as Captain Sail looked at the drink and replied, “It’s a fine rum… this bottle is twice the cost of a single keg of any other stuff in the sea.”
Captain Sail took a swig of the rum as Siren replied, “And… the lesson?”
Captain Sail swished the bottle around as he replied, “Sailors have a since of intimidation towards their captain. But when troubling matters are discussed over a stiff drink… that fades. When you talk over a good drink, titles like captain, quartermaster, officer, subornment, even… father… become irrelevant. When talking over a bottle, we are no longer superior and subornment… we are friends. My father taught me that… that’s one of the reasons I respected him as much as I did.”
Captain Sail sat the bottle back down between the bars as Siren picked it up and took another swig before replying, “Sounds like a great stallion. I respect ponies like that, seems the world is seeing less and less of em’ each year.”

Captain Sail replied with a peaceful tone, “Aye, you speak the truth in that matter. Either way, with this bottle, you ain’t a prisoner, and I ain’t not your capture. We are just a stallion and a mare shar-” Realizing what he said, Captain Sail cleared his throat and rephrased, “We are just two sailors sharing a drink, and a story…”
Smiling at his corrected phrase, Siren took another sip of the rum as Captain Sail continued, “And you lass, hold the most interesting tale I know… The tale of the Annabelle’s last voyage.”
After hearing his words, Siren placed the bottle back in its place between the bars as she held her silence in shame. Noticing this, Captain Sail continued, “Lass… I’m giving ya the chance to save yourself… now tell me… What is your connection with Iron Hoof?”
Siren looked down at the bottle as it sat uninterrupted between the bars as she replied, “If you’re referring to the mockery we fought earlier today… I’m not connected to that traitor… but… if you’re talking about the Captain Iron Hoof… the one you’ve been hunting for all these years… He is… was my father.”
Although Captain Sail was expecting this kind of answer, he was still surprised as he replied, “Is he now… Go on…”

Siren picked up the bottle, took a quick swig and sighed before setting the bottle back down and continuing, “In order for you to understand… I’m going to have to start from the very beginning… For a sailor who’s been hunting Iron Hoof, you know of the last time he was seen in the main seas?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… chased into a hurricane over three hundred years ago.”
Siren nodded, “Yea, well… the pony who chased him into that storm was a commodore for the Prench Royal Navy. Commodore Chrysanthemum, of the Lullaby.”
Captain Sail picked up the bottle and took a drink then nodded, “I heard of her… a great pirate hunter if I ain’t mistaken.”
Siren nodded, “Aye… she held the record for most pirates captured by a single ship and crew in all of the main seas… but of them, there was always one that eluted her.”
Siren picked up the bottle and took a drink as Captain Sail nodded, “Captain Iron Hoof?”

Siren nodded as she placed the bottle back down and continued the story, “Aye… every step she took to catch him, was always one step behind. She tried for many years until finally she got lucky. She and her fleet of nine ships managed to corner Captain Iron Hoof off the coast of the Griffin Kingdoms. However, even a cornered pirate will never surrender easily. Desperate, Iron Hoof sailed directly into the path of a Hurricane, as the commodore took it upon herself to follow with all nine ships. Sadly, none of them knew the ferocity that this one particular storm held. What was once ten ships, quickly dropped to eight, then six, then four, then two. Before they knew it, the hurricane toppled and crushed all of em’ accept for Commodore Chrysanthemum’s flag ship the Lullaby, and Iron Hoof’s Iron Wing. Knowing there was no hope for survival, the pirate hunter and her target formed a pact. In order for them to escape the storm with their lives, they had no choice, but to work together for survival.”

Captain Sail picked up the bottle and spoke before taking a drink, “When faced with death, even the bitterest of foes will join forces to survive.”
As Captain Sail took his drink and sat the bottle back down, Siren picked up the bottle, took her own swig and replied, “Yea… well the storm wasn’t over that easily. To survive, the two ships and their crew’s tied the both vessels together from the sides so that they both would be hard for the fierce waves and sporadic winds to capsize. And though it only fixed half their problems, it did enough for them to fight the waves and storm, but the fierce winds tore their sails to ribbons, so all they could do was wait it out. Six days later, the storm dispersed and they were finally free, though by this time, the hurricane had traveled from the coast of the Griffin Kingdoms, to the Leviathan Sea. Wounded, exhausted, and too damaged to sail, the tied Lullaby and Iron Wing were set adrift until they became beached, on the Leviathan’s island.”

Captain Sail was able to hide his surprise as he took the bottle, took a swig, and then replied, “So… what happened next?”
Siren continued, “Well, when the Leviathan spotted them, he appeared and was going to kill them like he did all who stepped onto his island, but Captain Iron Hoof decided to make a counter offer for his trespass. In exchange for sparing their lives, Captain Iron Hoof offered his services as a Privateer. A Pirate for hire assigned to serve the Leviathan for any task that may be needed. At first the Leviathan was skeptic of the trespasser and his crew, but when Commodore Chrysanthemum offered to do the same, he was surprised. Whatever ill will set forth to unite a pirate hunter and a pirate must have been an unforeseeable and uncontrollable set of circumstances. So, showing mercy to the castaways, the Leviathan accepted the offer, but with one condition. The two captain’s and their crews could never again return to the main seas, they had to set up a new Home amongst the Hippogriffs on the Isle of Home. And so, Captain Iron Hoof and Commodore Chrysanthemum became Home’s first guardians tasked to protect the Leviathan’s most sacred treasure… A pearl with powers far beyond our own understanding.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Funny, I bet the Commodore was angry that she was stuck working with the one pirate she was unable to catch

Siren smiled at the mood of the story as she replied, “She was… but in time… she… sort of fell for him, in fact, not long after, they were married.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Ah… I see… fell for your enemy in the heat of the moment.”
Siren shrugged her shoulder, “Or something like that… either way… that was the true and first Iron Hoof.”
Captain Sail replied with curiosity, “First?...”
Siren took another swig from the bottle as she replied with a skeptic look, “You think that an earthpony could sail the leviathan seas for three hundred years? Of course not, He was just the first. Like my father, every time a guardian takes control of the Iron Wing, he places another as his successor, so that if he or she dies, the Leviathan will always have a guardian. I was my father’s successor, as was his father, and his, etcetera, etcetera. The position of guardian and the ownership of the Iron Wing is and will always be my family’s lineage. Or… at least it was.”
Captain Sail figured it out, “Oh… so you’re a descendant to the first Iron Hoof… and… the Commodore?”

Siren nodded, “Aye… if we were to count myself, I would have been the eighth Iron Hoof on the Leviathan Sea. But… that was before Sebastian.”
Captain Sail took the bottle and took a swig, then replied, “Aye… that black stallion?”
Siren nodded, “That coward in sheep’s clothing is more like it. We took him in and spared his life, and how does he repay us? He forged a mutiny against my father, and now is after the Leviathan’s treasure.”
Captain Sail held up his hoof to stop her as he spoke, “Easy now lass… one thing at a time. Now… tell me of the Annabelle… were you there the day she was sunk?”
Siren nodded with an unhappy look on her face, “Aye… I was… but… it wasn’t anything personal. We only did what we had to.”
Captain Sail started to get angry as he replied, “What you had to?… better start talkin’ lass.”

Siren sighed as she reached for the bottle, but before she could take it, Captain Sail picked it up and spoke before taking a sip, “I’m waiting lass… and be careful of what ya say… I can’t promise that I won’t lose my temper on this subject.”
Seeing that he wasn’t going to let her drink, she replied, “We didn’t attack the Annabelle for any personal reason, nor was she some random target. The reason we sank the Annabelle was because of her cargo.”
Captain Sail was curious as he sat the bottle back down for her to take as he asked, “What do ya mean cargo?
Siren replied with a serious tone, “The Annabelle was transporting a stolen relic from the Leviathan Temple. This relic was taken when the priestess was chosen to take over the temple. When Priestess aqua was chosen, her rival got jealous and stole a relic from the temple to sell in the main sea. After he escaped to the Hippogriff Kingdom, we found out that he had sold the relic to a black market dealer and was having it smuggled into Equestria so that his buyer could examine it. The relic, was a book with a map and details about the leviathan sea that we wanted to keep secret. With it, anypony could find out that there was not only an island hidden in the Leviathan Sea, but that there was a treasure hidden on it. So… we tracked the vessel off the coast of Equestria… where… we sank her… and all witnesses aboard. To include, I’m sad to say… your father Captain Sail.”

Knowing that this was the most difficult part of the story, Siren took another swig of the bottle, sighed in preparation, then continued, “After she went down… we waited for a few minutes as our changed crew salvaged the relic and any supplies we could use from the bottom of the sea, then we set a course back to Home. Only when we searched the supplies, we found the relic, but we also found a colt hiding in one of the barrels.”
Captain Sail nodded as he confirmed, “Sebastian… right?”
Siren nodded, “Aye… Naturally, the first option suggested was to toss him back into the sea.”
Captain Sail nodded as if to agree, “Naturally…”
Siren continued, “But… since I was only a year older then him, I stood up and defended him. I told father that if we could spare his life, then we would get a new cabin boy to help around the ship. I was… a little soft back then. But now that I look back on it… I wish we did throw him overboard. Actually… I would have loved to see that.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Karma in the mix.”
Siren was confused, “What?”

Captain Sail replied with a careless tone, Iron Hoof killed my father, but spared another that day… it’s only fitting that the one to kill him is-“
“Careful captain… I chose my words in respect for your father’s honor… I would ask that you show the curtesy of doing the same.”
Although he didn’t like it, Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Fair enough… but you mentioned something about your changed crew, salvaging the wreckage from the bottom of the sea… what did you mean by that?”
Siren took another drink as she hesitated before replying, “The Leviathan’s treasure… the one that we guardians protect, is a giant pearl, but it’s not just that. This pearl has the ability to transform anypony or hippogriff into anything that is required for survival. Although the only thing ive seen it change us into is a seapony.”
Captain Sail was interested, “Seapony… like those old sailor stories?”

Siren shook her head, “These ain’t those stories captain… That pearl has more power in it then even I know of. If it fell into the hooves of somepony who would mistreat it… like Sebastian… He could sink ships from under their keels, collect their loot from under the sea… and leave its sailors floating amongst the waves to die as a castaway. Every ship and sailor who thirst for adventure, will fall victim to his gluttony, and not just merchants and navy transports. Pirates, family schooners, sea artist, you name em’… Everything that the waves touch, will be at his mercy… and if I know him the way I do… that mercy doesn’t exist.”
Captain Sail was confused, “So, why won’t your deity do anythin’ to stop him?”

Siren took yet another swig of the rum and sat the bottle down as she replied, “The Leviathan may be a god… but he’s stubborn as a foal. He chose the Iron Wing as his guardian ship, so as long as one of his subject is at the helm, he will stand by whatever decision the ship chooses to make. The only way he would disagree is if the ship chose to attack him. In a way it did… but I’m willing to bet that when the Leviathan’s isle got hit by what he could assume was a stray shell, he had decided that the one who fired that round was the ship that was unfamiliar to his waters. Which is why he transported us away from the fight. If I wasn’t aboard this ship, he probably would have destroyed it and everypony aboard.”
Captain Sail mumbled to himself, “A god with an ego… made a decision three hundred years ago and refused to accept that its circumstances could have changed. So I’m willin’ to bet that after we were casted away from the fight, the Iron Wing and its crew were spared.”
Siren sighed, “Aye… most likely. As I said, the Leviathan will always trust the vessels he deems worthy, but he refuses to believe that any who captain that said vessel is bad. Even now, after seeing that the Iron Hoof Pirates and Home are enemies, he refuses to get involved.”

Captain Sail could only smile as he replied, “That’s some benevolent god ya got there lass.”
Siren smiled, “That’s what I said.”
Captain Sail nodded as he started to ask, “Back to the Annabelle… you watch her go down with your own eyes?”
Siren sighed as she replied, “Aye… I did…”
Captain Sail nodded, “And my father… how did he die?”
Siren smiled slightly as she replied, “A Captain and his ship are one… they sail together, they fight together, and if done properly… they die together.”
Captain Sail could only guess that the word weren’t her own as he replied, “Well said lass… is that from a book?”
Siren shook her head, “No… my father said that… right after the Annabelle was sunk. After we fired a number of vollies on the Annabelle, Captain Sail, your father despite his wounds, climbed to the helm of his ship, and… stood ready for what would happen next.”

Although the words were painful to hear, Captain Sail held a straight face as he asked, “And… what did happen next?”
Siren replied with a sympathetic tone, “He vanished… amongst the smoke and fire of our final volley… the one that sunk the Annabelle.”
Captain Sail looked down at the ground and replied, “I see…”
Seeing his obvious disappointment, Siren continued, “Afterwards, we shared a moment of silence for the Annabelle, her captain and her crew. The Iron Wing has only sunken six ships since it became the Leviathan’s ship, but each one was done out of respect and in defense of Home and her treasure. We may be pirates but we are not butchers.”
Captain Sail replied with hidden anger, “You ain’t butchers… and yet my father’s blood still rusts upon your hooves… am I right?... Lass?”

Siren nodded but as she reached to take another drink, she found that the bottle of rum was now empty as she stared at the bottle to avert her eyes before replying, “Aye… it is…”
Captain Sail leaned back in the chair as he replied with an indecisive tone, “One would say that… being the daughter of the Iron Hoof I was after would justify you inheriting the debt he owed when he killed my father… would you agree lass?”
Feeling like this was what he would decide, Siren nodded while still looking away, “I s’pose your right… and… I wouldn’t argue with that decision should you make it.”
Captain Sail continued thinking over his decision as he replied, “And your only words of defense… you carried it out by doing what was best for Home… correct?”
Siren sighed as she replied with a serious tone, “Aye… which is why, with all due respect… I regret nothing.”

Hearing this almost enraged Captain Sail as he hid his anger and continued with a serious tone, “Did the crew tell ya ‘bout the first pony to ever cross me on my ship?...”
Getting her attention, Siren looked up at him as he continued, “He was just some random pirate I recruited on the Cove, but soon as he came aboard, he started muttering ideas of mutiny behind my back, so ya know what I did?”
Siren kept her attention as Captain Sail continued with a murderous look in his eye, “I shoved Mr. Keg’s musket in his mouth while he slept, and as soon as he realized what was happenin’, I scattered those ideas and where they were stored, across the rest of my crew while they slept.”
Imagining the horrible sight, Siren stared with surprise at Captain Sail as he continued with no emotion in his voice, “Before he could make his move, I acted first. I didn’t give him a chance to defend himself, nor to fight back, I just did what was best for my crew… so… what would you think if a captain with a reputation such as that were to just… let you go?”
Seeing his logic, Siren looked at the ground in shame as Captain Sail smile, “I'd think him a fool. But… he has his reasons that even I would dare question.”
Captain Sail stood up, “And those reasons lass, are to do what is best for Home.”
Suren was confused, “What?”

Captain Sail trotted towards the main brig door as he knocked on it, “Mr. Keg?”
A voice was heard through the door, “Aye capt’n?”
Captain Sail spoke, “Open the door and hand me the keys!”
Mr. Keg replied, “Aye, aye capt’n!”
With that, the door to the room clicked unlocked as Powder Keg cautiously opened the door and gave the brig keys to Captain Sail. As soon as Captain Sail had the keys, he trotted back to the cell and unlocked it as Siren asked, “You’re letting me go?”
Captain Sail opened the cell as he replied, “Your Home’s guardian right? Then your place is there.” He looked at his gunner, “Mr. Keg… Inform the crew that the lass is still a guest on this ship. And if anypony wants to complain… then my cabin and your cannon are ready to answer any questions they have.”

Powder Keg looked at his captain, then at Siren, before looking back and replaying, “If you say so Capt’n… but are you sure you can trust her? She did betray us.”
Captain Sail replied, “No, betrayal would entail she surrendered her loyalty. But as she stated befor, she’s no member of this crew, so it isn’t this crew that her loyalty lies, it is in the Isle of Home, and her ship that is temporarily in the care of another. So as far as I’m concerned, Miss Hoof did what she had to. She is a captain after all.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Ok well if that’s what y- wait… Miss Hoof?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… Mr. Keg… Meet Siren Hoof… Iron Hoof’s daughter.”
Powder Keg gave Siren a shocked look as Siren added, “I don’t go by that last name… its either Iron Hoof, or Siren.
Captain Sail smiled, “Whatever ya say… Lass.”
Powder Keg replied in surprise, “And… you’re still letting her go?”

Siren winked in a gloating manner as she replied, “Nice to formally meet you Mr. Keg.”
Although he didn’t trust her, Mr. Keg still felt a little awkward as he blushed at her pretty face, “Well… um…”
Captain Sail sighed, “Easy Lass… you may be free, but this doesn’t change much. I’d be wise to watch your step while aboard my ship.”
Siren sighed, “Sure… so nothing has changed then… Either way, I can only thank you captain. I… I honestly didn’t think this would matter to me.”
Captain Sail pulled out her dagger and handed it to her as he replied, “I wouldn’t say that… once we reach Home and I drop you off, you and I… are done. Got it? I’ll go about my way… and you will deal with your problem by yourself… understand?

Although she was disappointed to hear that, Siren understood his decision as she sighed in frustration, “Fine… if that’s your decision, I won’t argue with it… captain.”
With an angry tone, Siren pushed Captain Sail aside and left the brig as both Powder Keg and Captain Sail watched her leave as Powder Keg spoke, “Um… is it me… or does she not like that idea?”
Captain Sail replied with sarcasm, “It’s just you.”
Powder Keg turned to his captain, “How do you know she can be trusted captain? After everything she did… I assumed she’d be dead by now.”
Captain Sail looked back at the empty bottle of rum as he replied, “That was a fine rum we were drinkin’ lad… and anypony who would drink a rum like that that quickly either has a problem, or seeks a solution. I have no doubt in my mind that she was honest this time. Sadly… it’s too late to convince me to help her. Once we drop her at home we will go our separate ways… and preferably never cross paths with her again.”

Ch13 The Lullaby

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The morning was complete overcast, and the air was still thick with tension as the Bloody Tide sailed through the leviathan sea with its captain and his rival’s daughter sitting on the upper deck. As the ship rocked amongst the waves, Siren sat looking out over the sea from port side railing, while Captain Sail sat next to the helmscolt as Pinpoint climbed up from below deck and made his way to the upper deck before talking, “Any sign of him captain?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “None to speak of. Though after his actions a few days ago, I’d hide my face too, less I want somepony pointin’ a cannon at it.”
Pinpoint smiled, “Even if we did, do ya think a single cannon can do anything to the face of a god?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “That wouldn’t stop me from tryin’. Though it is strange it’s been nearly ten hours since we entered the leviathan sea, and our gracious host has yet to show himself. I don’t figure a god having better things to do then pay forward an apology for transporting his guardian two days away.”

Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Speakin’ of which… are you and Miss Hoof still on… rough seas?”
Hearing his words, Siren turned her head until she could see him out the corner of her eye as she gave Pinpoint an evil glare before turning back to the sea. After seeing this Pinpoint could tell the answer as Captain Sail didn’t bother answering the question. After a few seconds passed, Pinpoint sighed as he looked over the ship with his captain and spoke, “I can recall battles with less tension then this.”
Captain Sail replied, “Oh… name one.”
Pinpoint replied, “The Highlands…”
Captain Sail smiled, “That wasn’t a battle. That was runnin’ away.”
Pinpoint smiled as he replied, “It sure felt like a battle though… I still think it was a bad idea bringing Mr. Keg ashore.”
Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders, “I told him that was no mare… but he had to find out the hard way, and to think it would have ended better if he had just apologized and left. Punching that guy didn’t help anythin’. All it did was anger the Clydesdale and his clan.”
Pinpoint chuckled, “I still have a scare from the bullet I took when we fled the port. Who knew that highland clans were so violent after insulting their princess?... or prince…”

Chuckling at the memory for a few seconds, Pinpoint thought about what was happening now as he looked back at Captain Sail and spoke, “Captain are you sure about this… I don’t mind that you decided to spare the lass, in fact I’m actually proud you did… but must you ignore their threat? It ain’t right to just dump her on Home and leave her to Iron Hoof’s mercy.”
Captain Sail sighed in annoyance, “Mr. Point… Iron Hoof is dead… and though I’m relieved that I got to know the truth… it still pains me that I wasn’t the one to enjoy my revenge properly. So, with this fact in mind, its time I return to the main seas and put this ordeal behind me.”
Powder Keg called from the Crow’s nest, “Land off our bow! It’s the Leviathan’s Isle Capt’n!”

With the call Captain Sail and Pinpoint looked into the distance to see the ice covered island as Captain Sail spoke, “The hole in his dome is gone… and the Iron Wing is nowhere in sight neither.” He looked at the helmscolt, “Adjust a few degrees to starboard and stay the course, Home is just beyond that isle.”
The helmscolt nodded as he slightly turned the helm, “Aye capt’n.”
With the Bloody Tide listing to the side, Captain Sail continued looking at the approaching leviathan island as his eyes started focusing on the dark overcast above it. As he looked at the clouds Captain Sail spoke, “Mr. Point?… Spyglass…”
Curious of his tone, Siren looked at Captain Sail as he was handed a spyglass and looked at the clouds over the leviathan’s Isle. As he looked at the cloud cover, Captain Sail discovered something as he called with an almost frantic tone, “All sails on the wind! More speed!!!”

Confused, Siren and Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail as Pinpoint asked, “What is it captain?”
Captain Sail replied, “Home is under attack, that ain’t overcast… it’s smoke!”
After hearing the explanation, Siren quickly looked towards the Leviathan Island as their approach slowly moved it out of their view revealing the Isle of Home, and its burning town. As soon as the crew laid eyes on the burning island, the crew of the Bloody Tide stared in shock as Powder Keg looked at the isle from the crow’s nest and called, “Capt’n! I see the hippogriffs fightin’ the fires! If they were attacked there are plenty of survivors!”
Captain Sail replied, “Do ya see who was attacking the isle? A ship, or somthin’?”
Powder Keg shook his head, “None to speak of capt’n. look’s like we missed them?”
Captain Sail nodded as he called, “Work smartly lads! We need to get there as soon as possible.”
As the crew rushed to get to the island faster, Siren could only watch in worry as the ship continued to its destination.

Minutes later, As the Bloody Tide approached the dock, Siren didn’t waste any time as she darted across the deck and jumped to the pier as she landed with a roll then took off sprinting into the town in worry for her home. Reacting to the mare’s actions, Captain Sail called his orders as fast as he could, “Mr. Point, you’re in command, I want all hooves inland helping the hippogriffs. Mr. Keg you’re on me, we’ll follow the lass and help her.”
Jumping onto the dock, Captain Sail started chasing after Siren as Pinpoint asked, “What about the Tide?”
Captain Sail called as he ran up the pier, “Anchor her! The town is more important!”
As Captain Sail vanished into the town, the crew looked to Pinpoint in confusion as Pinpoint nodded, “You heard him lads! Get this crate tied and then get your plots ashore!”
Following their order, everypony aboard the Tide tried to get the ship docked as fast as they could while Powder Keg rushed down the Jacobs ladder then went ashore to try to catch up to their captain.

In the damaged town of Home, Siren made her way through the rubble littered streets as many hippogriffs scrambled to put out fires, save those still trapped in buildings, and help the wounded. By the time both Captain Sail and Powder Keg caught up to the mare, she spotted Queen Novo as a few of her guards helped the pregnant mare out of a partially collapsed building. As soon as she saw her foal hood friend, Siren rushed over, “Novo!”
Seeing Siren approach, Queen Novo smiled, “Siren, thank the leviathan you’re here. What happened?”
Siren replied, “I should ask the same… what’s going on here?”
With a guard helping her stand, the queen replied, “Its Iron Hoof… He was here…”
Siren replied, “When?...”
The disoriented queen placed her talon on her head, “A few hours ago… he hit us hard with volley after volley of cannon fire, then he and his pirates charged the docks and raided the town. Some of us tried to fight back, but I was stuck here when the house supports gave way. That didn’t stop me from seeing him though… that one eyed pirate let his crew raid the town as he made his way t-”
Before she could finish, Queen Novo’s expression became nervous as she turned her head to look up the road, “The temple…”

Realizing the same thing, Siren replied, “The pearl…” she looked at the guards, “Stay with her, and see that she gets medical attention.”
The guard nodded, “Yes ma’am.”
With that, Siren started rushing up the street as Queen Novo looked at Captain Sail and spoked, “What are you waiting for captain?… follow her…”
Captain Sail could only nod slightly as he and Powder Keg rushed up the road following Siren to the Leviathan Temple. By the time they arrived, half of the temple was already on the ground as the other half was still standing but on fire. As he saw the situation, Captain Sail looked to Siren who was frantically trying to get information from another hippogriff in the area, “Where is she? Where is Aqua?”

The hippogriff she was talking to continued trying to move the rubble as he replied, “She’s still inside! Help, we need to get her out before it collapses!”
With that Siren started trying to move the rubble as she looked at Captain Sail, “Help us! The priestess is still inside!!!”
Reacting to the frantic mare’s plea, Captain Sail and Powder Keg started picking up rubble as they all tried to move the rubble clear so that they could get inside. As the group of hippogriffs and ponies tried to move the rubble out of the way, it wasn’t long before they cleared it out enough to reveal a small opening in the debris. Without warning, Siren wasted no time in squeezing herself into the small crevice and into the condemned building.

As soon as Siren vanished into the rubble, Captain Sail squeezed himself into the hole as he quickly tried to catch up with the frantic mare. As soon as they were inside the temple, the small hole in the rubble widened into a large chapel like room that held many pews lined up on both sides of a long isle. At the end of the isle stood a large bronze statue of the leviathan that sat a few feet behind an altar. As Captain Sail marveled at the place of worship, he could tell that what was left of the ceiling which was supposed to be ten feet over the statue was actually laying on top of the large idle and was soon to collapse. Seeing that the only thing holding up the roof was the statue, Captain Sail looked to the front of the room as he saw Priestess Aqua laying between the alter and statue with Siren trying to wake the unconscious mare. Trying to help, Captain Sail rushed to the mare as Siren spoke, “She’s still breathing… but her throat was cut.”
Captain Sail looked at the wound and spoke, “No lass, it’s not. Look at the angle, a blade was held to her neck, but it only cut the flesh. This wasn’t an attempt at her life, look here… somepony knocked her unconscious with a blunt instrument.”

Siren asked, “W-will she be alright?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “I can’t say, but this cut isn’t fatal. All we can do is get her out of here.”
Siren looked at the statue as she spoke, “Wait here I'll be right back.”
Without waiting for a response, Siren rushed around the statue to a hidden stairway that sat behind the large idle as she rushed down the stairs as fast as she could. Curious, Captain Sail left the Priestess on the ground as he followed Siren down the stairs as the hidden stairwell led to a large underground cavern with a pool in the center and a tall stalagmite sticking out as if to present something of great importance, however what the stalagmite was presenting wasn’t present as Siren spoke, in shock, “No… he took it…”
Siren looked at Captain Sail as she spoke, “Iron Hoof took the pearl… it’s gone!”

At that moment, the sound of the shifting rubble echoed through the stairway as Captain Sail spoke, “One thing at a time lass. We need to get the priestess outta here now!”
As Captain Sail started back up the stairs, he made it halfway up before realizing that Siren was still looking at the empty stalagmite as he called, “Now lass! While we got time to save her!”
With his call snapping her out of it, Siren quickly followed as the two made their way out of the cavern as the rumbling of the roof started to get louder. As soon as the two reached the chapel, Captain Sail picked up the priestess as he and Siren quickly rushed back to the small entrance to the temple. There they carefully moved the unconscious priestess out of the small opening in the rubble before exiting the temple themselves just as the statue gave way leaving the crumbling ceiling to collapse behind them, as the last of the leviathan temple fell to the ground in rubble.

As soon as they were safely outside the ruined temple, the Crimson Pirates’ surgeon was waiting as he approached the priestess and spoke, “Let her to me so I can see…” He studied her wounds, “She’s unconscious, probably concussed, but her wounds are miner. She should be fine.”
Captain Sail nodded as he spoke, “Do what you can, and then return to the town to tend to more wounded. I want to help as many of the island residents as we can.”
The surgeon smiled, “Aye Captain, I won’t let ya down.”
Captain Sail looked at Powder Keg, “Go back to the Tide and gather all the medical supplies we have, then divvy them out to anypony who needs ‘em.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye, aye capt’n.”
With that Captain Sail and Siren stayed with the priestess as the Crimson Pirates worked to help the rest of the residents of Home.

Hours later as the crisis came to an end, Captain Sail, Queen Novo, and a few of her guards were trotting down the pier towards the Bloody Tide as the queen spoke, “I cannot thank you enough for your help Captain, without your assistance I’m afraid casualties would have been much higher.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Considering what happened here, it’s not easy to turn a blind eye to an island that tried to help me fulfil my two decade long task.”
Queen Novo smiled, “Whatever your reasons, we still thank you.”
At that moment, Siren approached as she spoke, “Captain?...”
Captain Sail turned to her as he spoke, “Hey there lass…”
Queen Novo asked, “How is Priestess Aqua?”
Siren replied with a sigh, “She’s fine. The Crimson Pirates’ surgeon says she is stable but she still hasn’t woken up yet.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Rest assured lass, with him there, she’s in good hooves.”
Siren gave a joyful smile as she replied, “I wouldn’t doubt it…”

After that Siren’s smile faded as she became silent for a few second as if she was trying to figure out how to word her next question. Seeing this Queen Novo realized what was happening as she spoke, “Oh… um… I’m… going to go check on Aqua myself… you know, in case she wakes up.”
Acting casual Queen Novo and her guards trotted passed Siren as she whispered, “Knock him dead sister.”
Siren whispered back, “Grow up already.”
As the queen and her guards left the port, Siren asked in what seemed to be an embarrassed tone, “So… um… captain? Would you mind coming with me… there is something I should have shown you the moment you arrived here.”

Captain Sail was curious, not by what she wanted to show him, but by the way she was acting as he replied, “Sure lass… just lead the way.”
Siren nodded, as she led Captain Sail off of the dock and out of the town. As they continued across the island, Captain Sail looked at the path they were traveling as he noticed the changes of the road as it went from well-kept brick, to run down cobble, to rotting timber then finally a simple dirt path. With the glowing embers of the now extinguished town vanishing in the distance, it wasn’t long before the road ended at an old metal gate that seemed to encircle a cliffside Cemetery. As they entered the cemetery, Siren spoke, “This way…”

Siren continued leading the way in silence as Captain Sail looked at the passing gravestones. Like all cemeteries, some graves were fresh enough that the dirt over the casket didn’t have any grass growing yet, while others were so old that the names, dates, and markings on the tombstones were completely unreadable. Soon, Siren led the curious captain to a large mausoleum that sat in the center of the cemetery as she approached the metal door and opened it. As Captain Sail looked at the large mausoleum he noticed the carving above the door that read, The Lullaby. As he read these words, Captain Sail paused as Siren noticed this and spoke, “All good captains go down with their ships… but… when the ship is still in service of a higher power. Then they are put to rest in the remnants of another vessel owned by him. Believe it or not… this is one such vessel.”

Without explanation, Siren entered the mausoleum as Captain Sail followed closely before entering a long room that was lined with crypts and tombs. Looking into this room, Captain Sail was surprised. The outside of the mausoleum was made entirely out of marble and granite, but the inside walls were lined with timber and wood that stretched all the way down the line of tombs. Curious Captain Sail passed a few unmarked tombs before approaching the first one with text as he read, “Shanty C. Hoof, AKA Iron Hoof IV.” He approached the next, “Compass D. Hoof, AKA Iron Hoof III.”
Captain Sail looked back at Siren, “These are… were the Iron Hooves of the leviathan seas?”
Siren nodded, “Aye… all laid to rest within the timber of the original Lullaby.”
Captain Sail looked at the last tomb that was centered in the back wall of the mausoleum as he trotted to it, and read the inscription on the stone casket, “Captain Iron Hoof, & Commodore Chrysanthemum. What once was loth, will pass on as Love.”

Captain Sail looked upon the tomb of the one he thought he was hunting as he mumbled, “So… I’ve been hunting a real ghost then haven’t I?”
Siren approached him, “Yea… way to live up to your nickname captain.”
Captain Sail smirked, “I aim to please lass.”
Siren replied with a smile of her own, “Here… this is what I wanted to show you.”
With that Siren led Captain Sail passed the final crypt as they approached a shelf with six dust covered vases placed in an orderly fashion. As Captain Sail approached the shelf, he wiped away some of the dust as he read the text on the first vase, “The Waterspout?” he looked at the next vase and wiped the dust from it, “The Vengeful Mare.” Then the next, “The Twisted Knot, what is this?”
Siren replied as she picked up the last vase in the row, “These are the ships that the Iron Hooves have sunken over the years. Since none were sunk out of hatred or grudges, we collected the nameplate of each vessel, burned them, then gathered the ashes so that they could be laid to rest here. Each vase is a tribute to the ships, the crew, and the captains of every ship that we’ve had to sink… which includes…”

Siren handed the vase in her hooves to Captain Sail as he took the vase, then wiped away the dust before reading the name, “The Annabelle…”
although he was able to hold it together, Siren could see the sadness in his eyes as she spoke, “That vase represents the Annabelle her crew and… her captain. It’s only right that we paid her respect along with the others.”
Captain Sail shook his head in disbelief, “But… why?...”
Siren smiled, “Iron Hoof may be a name that is referred to as a notorious pirate on the main seas… but here… he’s a protector, and a hero. And it’s only right that a hero should honor the lives he must take for Home. Though… now that Sabastian has the pearl… it may once again become a notorious name for a murderer.”

Although she wanted Captain Sail to reply with words of advice or encouragement, Siren could only notice that Captain Sail seemed to have ignored her comment as he gazed at the vase in a sympathetic way. Understanding how it felt to lose a father, Siren spoke, “Captain… I want you to take this with you.”
Captain Sail was surprised, “What?”
Siren continued, “We paid our respect to him, so it’s only right that you take all that remains, and lay him to rest back at your home. It’s the least you can do to honor his memory.”
Captain Sail looked back at the vase as he smiled, but then his smile faded as he replied, “A temptin’ offer lass… but I have to decline.”
Siren was surprised, “What?”

Captain Sail looked back at her as he explained, “He was laid to rest already, so by taken him now, would mean I’m robbin’ his grave. So no… I think it will be much better.” He placed the vase back where it originally sat, “If he stayed here.”
Siren replied in confusion, “But… wouldn’t it be better to take him back to your homeland?”
Captain Sail chuckled as he replied with a proud tone, “Lass, I’m a pirate. My homeland is the Bloody Tide, my countrycolts are my crew. Where I’m going there is no earth to bury this in lass. Besides, it’s better he remains here and be honored as a great sailor, then to take him to Equestria, and be remembered as the father to a criminal.”
Siren smiled as she replied, “Then we will give him the honor and remember him as the father to a criminal.”
Seeing the irony in her words Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “And a great honor that is… Thank you lass.”

For a brief moment, the two’s eyes locked as they both smiled at each other, however as Captain Sail started to realize the mood of the moment, he quickly changed the subject as he turned back to the original Iron Hoof tomb as he spoke, “So… uh… Iron Hoof and Chrysanthemum are both in this crypt right?… Funny how two enemies could fall for one another like they did.”
Siren smiled at his attempt to change the subject as she replied, “Actually, I always thought it was romantic. Two bitter foes with goals to kill one another, only to find that the one they were hunting was actually their soul mate. I often imagined finding my love by the same means. Though it’s only a story.”
Captain Sail could only smirk, “Funny, I never figured you for the romantic type.”
Siren smiled, “I may be tough… but I’m still a mare.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… that ya are.”

After that, the two stared at the tomb of the ancient pirate for a few moments of silence as Siren broke the silence with a nervous tone, “So… um… what are you going to do now captain?”
Captain Sail looked at her, “What do ya mean lass?”
Siren continued, “Well, you said that as soon as I was back here we were done… so… what’s next for you? You going, back to Pirate Cove?”
Captain Sail turned back to the tomb as he replied, “Well… I s’pose I could… but honestly, I don’t know.”
Siren was surprised, “You don’t know?... didn’t you have a plan for what happens after Iron Hoof was dead?”
Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders, “Well I did… I planned to go back to Equestria and do right by a lass I wronged a long time ago… but now that she married another, I don’t see how that’s possible. S’pose I could return to Pirate cove, though I'll spare them the tale of Home and its secrets. I'd rather a place like this has seen enough excitement for a life time.”

Siren gave herself a bracing sigh as she started to ask, “I… I know you probably had enough of us here at Home… but… why not stay an-“
Before she could finish her sentence, the door to the mausoleum flew open as one of Queen Novo’s guards rushed in, “Miss Siren! Captain Sail! The Priestess has regained consciousness!”
The two ponies looked at the guard as Siren asked, “Is she okay?”
The guard nodded, “Yes ma’am she is… but she is asking to see you.”
Siren nodded, “Alright… I’ll get there as soon as I can.”
The guard shook his head, “With all due respect, she wasn’t wanting to see you Miss Siren… she wants to see Captain Sail.”
Both pirates were surprised as Siren looked at Captain Sail as he replied, “Me?... really?...”
The guard nodded, “Aye… uh… yes sir.”
Captain Sail looked at Siren as he replied, “Far be it for me to disappoint a mare… lately… let us go see her lass. Whatever she needs me for must be important if she is askin’ for a low-life like myself.”

Later just outside a tent that was being used as an extra infirmary, Siren and Captain Sail approached as Queen Novo met them and spoke, “Captain… the priestess is asking to see you.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… as I was already told… any idea as to why?”
Queen Novo replied, “I think it has something to do with Iron Hoof’s attack. We’ve already informed her of Home’s situation, so try to keep it short, she needs her rest after all.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, I’ll keep it quick.”
Captain Sail then moved the flap that was the entrance to the tent as the captain entered the tent and allowed the flap to close behind him.

As soon as Captain Sail was inside, he saw a hospital bed sitting in the center of the tent as the Sky blue hippogriff looked at Captain Sail and smiled, “Captain… you’re late.”
Captain Sail replied, “A thousand pardons lass, but one tends to lose track of time, when your deity transport ya half way cross the sea.”
Priestess Aqua nodded, “I understand… I’ve been informed of your recent voyage and what followed. Now… come here and take a seat captain… we have much to discuss.”
Captain Sail approached the hospital bed as he replied, “With all due respect lass, I'd rather stand… I ain’t some foal approaching his mother on her death bed.”
The priestess replied, “Of course not… my son would be better mannered then to lock Siren in the brig of his ship.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Well it was either that or the alternative. Any other pony would have been killed on the spot. She should count herself lucky.”

The priestess asked with curiosity, “And, may I ask why you spared her? I would guess a ruthless pirate such as yourself would have killed her and be done with it.”
Captain Sail replied, “What ruthless pirate would I be to not remember a conversation whilst being tanked like a sunken barrel or rum? It was you that said, and I quote… the lies your tellin’ me are to protect your livelihood and aren’t meant to disrespect myself or my crew? Or was I more tanked then even I remember?”
The Priestess was surprised he remembered, “It was…”
Captain Sail nodded, “That’s why I gave the lass a chance to tell her side of it. If I didn’t like her story, I would have killed her. And if I did which you can see, I would let her go. That and… I s’pose, I’ve taken a fancy to the lass’s charm.”

The priestess smiled, “Thank you captain. Not just for Siren, but for coming to our aid. You are a stranger to this island, and yet you’ve treated us as if you were a resident of this island. And for that, I and every hippogriff of Home, thank you.”
Bowing her head to show gratitude, Priestess Aqua held her gracious smile as Captain Sail replied, “You welcomed us in peace and treated us as proper guests. For a group of scurvy pirates, that’s a rarity in these waters. I for one know how to return hospitality, so, there is no thanks nessisary.”
The Priestess nodded her head as she replied, “Selfless and modest, you’re the full packages aren’t you, but enough with the pleasantries… The reason I needed to see you is because of Iron Hoof.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Aye… I’ve already discussed this with the lass. The Iron Hoof I’m lookin’ for is dead, and I don’t want anythin’ to do with the one that’s still about. So after we resupply, I and my crew will be off on our marry way.”
The priestess shook her head, “It’s not that easy captain… as you know, Iron Hoof has the pearl… but that’s not why he attacked the island.”
Captain Sail was confused, “It ain’t?”
The Priestess replied, “No… He didn’t come here to collect the pearl, or to intimidate us in any way… he came here for you.”

Captain Sail was surprised as he replied, “Did he… and why pray tell did he do a thing like that?”
The priestess replied, “I could see it in his eye… He wants revenge. You’ve crossed him in a way that has completely consumed his entire idea of rationality. Now… he will do everything it takes, to find, and kill you.”
Captain Sail was still confused as he sat down and spoke, “S’pose you could explain it a little better to me than that? How do you know he wanted me?”
The Priestess replied, “When he kicked in the doors to the temple, he and his pirates pinned me to the alter, but the first words out of his mouth were, Where is he? I asked who, but he only continued by slamming me against the wall and placing his sword to my throat as he said Captain Sail. He says that you took his eye from him, so he was going to watch as his crew pulled both your eyes from you. He didn’t give details, but that look in his eye… it’s the same look that I’ve seen twice now. Once in Siren’s… and once in yours.”

Although he didn’t like the way she said that, Captain Sail brushed it off as he replied, “Took his eye?... s’pose that’s an injury from our scuffle. If he wants me, he’ll have to find me. He ain’t worth the effort to track down.”
The priestess nodded as she replied, “You won’t have to track him at all… since he will return here.”
Captain Sail replied with a curious look, “Will he? And how do ya know that?”
The priestess replied, “Once he finds out he can’t use the pearl, then he will turn his focus back on this island for answers. Bye then, his thirst for revenge will have aged enough, to demand blood.”
Captain Sail shook his head as he replied, “Wait… I think I missed somethin’, how do you know he can’t use the pearl?”
Priestess Aqua sighed, “Because it’s not as easy as to merely possess the pearl, you must be at peace to control it. If your mind is clouded by strong emotions such as revenge, grief, or shame it will never work. Only a mind at peace can hope to control its power. Although a well suppressed anger may find its way through this rule… but Iron Hoof is well beyond that loophole.”

Understanding the situation, Captain Sail replied, “Well I suppose your next action will be to set a trap and wait till Iron Hoof returns. Then you and your guardian can get back the pearl and save your home.”
The priestess nodded as she replied, “I agree… But I must ask.” She sighed in preparation before continuing with an official tone, “Captain Sail, would you stay and support us in this time of need?”
Captain Sail didn’t reply instead he just gave her an expressionless stare as she saw his hesitation and continued, “Please… it’s obvious that the Leviathan isn’t willing to help us. And we have already tried and failed to fend off the Iron Hoof Pirates on our own. So I beg of you, help us to stop Iron Hoof if he makes it back here… more of my fellow hippogriffs will die, and… I can’t bear any more loss.”
Seeing that Priestess Aqua was desperate Captain Sail replied, “I would lass… but is there any chance your god could take action… for once?”
Priestess Aqua’s expression went from worried to offended, as she replied, “Seeing that you’re not from here, I'll overlook your blasphemous tone. The Leviathan may seem idle, but he sees to our survival by ensuring we settle all of our internal disputes without his aid.”

Captain Sail wasn’t convinced, “Even if his priestess is layin motionless in his own burnin’ temple?”
The priestess nodded, “His actions may seem cruel, but it is his will. And his will be done.”
Captain Sail became increasingly annoyed, “So you’re willin’ to accept that he will watch his subject’s burn and ignore their plea for help?”
The Priestess sighed, “I know it’s hard to understand, but we have relied on his protection for centuries. So in this matter, yes, we must tend to ourselves in order to grow stronger. This is how things must be settled.”
Captain Sail shook his head in irritation, “Only if you chose it to be, But I am not convince enough to allow him to continue like this.”

Captain Sail turned towards the door as Aqua asked, “Wait… what do you mean by that?”
Captain Sail replied, “I think it’s time I speak to this lord of the sea.”
Priestess Aqua got nervous, “What are you going to say?”
Captain Sail smiled, “My opinion… and that’s all.”
Without letting her reply, Captain Sail stepped out of the tent as he stopped in front of both Siren and Queen Novo as Siren asked, “Captain, is she alright? What did she say?”
Captain Sail replied with a serious tone, “She’s fine lass… listen, you want to settle this matter with Iron Hoof right? Get back the Pearl and whatnot?”
Siren didn’t like the sound of his tone, “Y-yea… why?...”
Captain Sail nodded, “Good… then come with me… we are settling a matter that will speed this up.”
Captain Sail trotted passed Siren as she hesitated before following, “D-did I miss somethin’ what are you going to do?”
Captain Sail replied, “Somethin’ that needs to be addressed.”

The Queen Stepped forward, “Anything I can do to help Captain?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, gather as many able bodied hippogriffs you can and meet me at the docks, I’ll explain everything when they get there.”
With that Captain Sail trotted away with a dominant attitude. As he trotted away, Siren spoke, “What could the Priestess say that has gotten him as riled up like this?”
Queen Novo smiled, “I don’t know… but I like it. You really picked yourself a keeper with this one. Mama likes a stallion who takes charge.”
Without giving her time to respond with what would be an annoyed tone, Queen Novo trotted off to gather the hippogriffs as Siren mumbled quietly, “I… I hope so…”

Hours later as the sun started setting on the horizon, Siren, Captain Sail, Pinpoint, and Powder Keg were in a long boat as Powder Keg rowed the boat and spoke, “Capt’n did I tell ya how crazy this is?...”
Captain Sail replied as he looked forward, “Aye… three times now.”
Powder Keg replied, “Well, let’s make it four. Cuz this is crazy.”
Pinpoint replied, “I have to agree with Mr. Keg, Captain… As surprising as this day has been, I didn’t expect it to end with you threatening a god.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye… you don’t pay me enough for somethin’ like this capt’n.”
Captain Sail sighed, “I told ya that if ya wanted to stay on the ship you were free to.”
Powder Keg shook his head, “I would have, but Mr. Point wanted me to be the one to row the boat.”
Pinpoint smiled sarcastically, “What can I say Mr. Keg, you row better then the rest of the crew.”
Powder Keg gave him a dull look, “Is that supposed to be a compliment?”
Pinpoint smiled with sarcasm, “Nah, not even close.” he turned to Captain Sail, “Are ya sure ya want to go about this like… this captain?”
Captain Sail replied, “Of course… nothing gets a gods attention like blasphemy of the highest order.” He looked at Siren, “Ain’t that right lass?”
Siren didn’t answer him, instead she just continued watching the water in front of the boat as she mumbled, “It’s for the good of Home… it’s for the good of Home…”

Hearing her nervous mumbling Captain Sail spoke, “Calm down lass, it’s kinda funny seeing you all shaken up like this. First a romantic side, now a divout side. Seems your more a mare then I thought.”
Siren glared at him out the corner of her eye as she replied, “Careful captain, this mare can still take you down a peg or two.”
Captain Sail replied, “Don’t threaten me with a good time lass.”
not in the mood to reply, siren held her silence as the boat tilted upwards when it slid a few feet onto the beach. Captain Sail looked at the large shell of an iceberg that sat on the island as Pinpoint spoke, “Okay… who wants to be the first to step on the isle and threaten the titan?”

Captain Sail rolled his eyes as he stepped onto the beach first, then one by one the rest of the ponies stepped off the boat as they trotted a few steps onto the island. As they looked at the Ice wall that stood in front of them, Captain Sail heard Siren mumble again, “For the good of Home… that’s what it is…”
Captain Sail turned to her again, “Lass calm down.”
Siren replied in anger, “How can I?... I’m going against everything I’ve been taught since I was a filly.”
Captain Sail replied, “The leviathan is a deity… but if he wants to rule his subjects then he needs to start actin’ like they matter.”
Captain Sail looked back at the icy shelter as he continued, “Mr. Keg… why don’t you knock for us.”
Powder Keg gave Captain Sail a nervous look, “Are… ya sure that’s a wise idea captain?”
Captain Sail gave him an annoyed look, “Did I ask for a second opinion?”
Powder Keg shrugged his shoulders as he pulled the hammer back on his musket, “Aye, aye capt’n.”

As Powder Keg raised the Musket, he pointed it at the large dome of ice as he steadied his aim. However, just as he started to press the firing lever, the massive wall of ice exploded outward as the shockwave knocked Powder Keg to the ground as large chunks of ice rained down crushing everything around them as the Siren and Pinpoint flinched at the falling ice sleet and snow that fell from the explosion with only Captain Sail standing his ground as he looked into the foggy hole left behind. As soon as the falling ice started settling, Siren looked at Powder Keg as she yelled, “How about a little warning next time Keg!”
Captain Sail stared into the foggy entrance as he replied, “That wasn’t Mr. Keg lass…t seems we were expected.”
All of a sudden, the massive Aquatic titan slowly emerged from the entrance to the icy shell as he raised his massive head high over the unwelcomed visitors before looking down at them with the light of the setting sun cascading a red hue that made half of his serpent-like scales glow red. Glaring at Captain Sail in anger, the titan spoke, “Insolent fool… how dare you trespass on my personal sanctuary! I don’t know what you are thinking, but my advice to you is to choose your next words carefully… they will be your last!”

With that Siren, Pinpoint, and Powder Keg looked at Captain Sail as he replied with a sinister smile, “Alright… listen carefully titan… cuz I ain’t repeatin’ myself…” He cleared his throat before yelling in an angry and disrespectful tone, “YOU ARE THE BIGGEST WASTE OF USELESS SELFISH SCALES THAT I HAVE EVER HAD THE MISFORTUNE OF GAZIN’ UPON!!! What sort of pathetic excuse for a god to you claim to be!?! I’ve scraped barnacles from my keel that seemed more reliable then you!!!”
Everypony including the Leviathan gave Captain Sail a surprised look as Captain Sail glared at the god with an expression that showed he stood behind every word. Seeing this the leviathan spoke, “It’s apparent to me, that you are not in the right state of mind… perhaps I should spare you in the assumption of insanity. Or perhaps an irresponsible amount of rum.”
Captain Sail replied, “Oh I think I’m in the perfect state a mind here, Fish… in fact, I never saw things clearer.”

The leviathan sighed in disappointment as he replied, “Then tell me… before I end your life, what brought on this fit of anger?”
Captain Sail replied, “You’re pearl… it’s been stolen…”
All of a sudden the leviathan narrowed his eyes in anger, “WHAT!?!” his eyes shifted to Siren as he spoke, “Is this true!?!”
Siren tried to show no fear as she stepped forward and bowed in respect, “Yes, he speaks the truth. Captain Iron Hoof attacked the Isle of Home while I was gone… he took the pearl, and made off with it after layin’ waste to the island. Many are dead, and even more are severely wounded.”

The leviathan replied with an angry tone, “How could you let this happen?... Was it not you who was appointed as guardian by your predecessor? How could you fail where so many have succeeded before?...”
Since she didn’t know how to respond, Siren decided to hold both her bow and her silence in shame, however before the titan could continue, Captain Sail spoke up, “If anypony failed anypony… it’s you!”
The leviathan’s eyes shifted to Captain Sail, “Me?... it is she who failed to protect the pearl as her title dictates. She who has failed to do the one thing I ask of her family in exchange for their livelihoods.”
Siren looked up from her bow as she looked at Captain Sail in surprise as he shook his head, “And yet it was you who transported her clear across the sea so that protecting said pearl was impossible!”
The leviathan replied, “It is no fault of mine that she chose to be aboard a foreign ship who attacked my sanctuary.”
Captain Sail replied in irritation, “And what proof do ya have that is was I who attacked it? See, you’re so full of yourself that you didn’t even consider the fact that a ship appointed by yourself centuries ago would have the audacity to attack you to save their own skin?”

Hearing this, the leviathan silenced himself as Captain Sail continued, “We arrived this mornin’ less than five hours after the attack ended. You call yourself a god… and yet you’ve done more bad then good.”
The leviathan stared in rage at Captain Sail as he replied, “Watch your tone captain… you forget yourself.”
Captain Sail took a step closer, “I have done more for this island in the past week, then I’ve witnessed from you at all.”
“You have no place t-“
Captain Sail stepped forward and interrupted again, “If you truly are a god, then you have duties as such! You’re supposed to look after your subjects and keep their wellbeing in mind at all times.”
“My ta-“
“Your guardian did everythin’ in her power to keep the pearl out of Iron Hoof’s… hooves. And in the end, it was your neglect that lead to its theft. Your no god… you’re a burden, you demand their praise and yet you do nothing to deserve it. You may be the creator of the hippogriff species… but you could learn a thing or two about how to take care of your creation. I’m just a simple ship captain, but at least my crew knows that I'll keep them safe… even from their own!”

Angered by his words, the leviathan yelled, “ENOUGH!!!”
With that command, the mighty titan flapped his wings with a powerful force as large spikes made of ice flew down from their tips hitting and embedding themselves in the beach as they created a pike wall on both sides of the trespassing ponies. Powder Keg and Pinpoint jumped back from where the spikes hit as Siren did everything she could to act as unconcerned as Captain Sail seemed. With this anger apparent the leviathan spoke, “You trespass on my island then you speak to me in such a manner?... who do you think you are, pony?”
Captain Sail stood up with pride as he spoke, “My name, is Captain Crimson Bartholomeus Sail! Captain of the Bloody Tide and the Crimson Pirates! And you… you are a god who has strayed on his duties. To be a god is no different from being a captain. You must look after your crew and not only protect them from others… but on the occasion quell the conflict amongst them.”

The leviathan replied, “You think you can tell me how to rule my domain?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nah… I can’t…” he gestured over his shoulder, “But I s’pose they could try…”
With that said, Captain Sail pointed across the sea towards the Isle of Home as the Leviathan saw not only Captain Sail’s ship floating between the two with a large number of Hippogriffs aboard watching the conversation, but also the smoldering remains of the Town of Home as more Hippogriffs watched from the town’s pier. Seeing his subjects staring at him in hopeful expressions, the leviathan felt concern as Captain Sail spoke, “They have been through a lot today… and yet you did nothing to help them… how are they supposed to think of their god, when he doesn’t even lift a scale to come to their aid? And yet I, a Pirate from another nation and deity came to their aid when there was not so much as a whisper from your island.”

Seeing the faces of his subjects made the leviathan feel guilty as he tried to defend himself, “Conflicts amongst my subjects must rema…”
“IRON HOOF IS NOT YOUR SUBJECT!!!”
Surprised by her outburst, Everypony looked at Siren as she stepped forward and continued, “My lord… The current captain of the Iron Wing is a mutineer from the main seas. We may have spared him and allowed him to sail with us… but he is a pony from Pirate Cove… an island outside your domain, there for, he is not your subject.”
The leviathan was confused as he spoke, “So… what is the true name of this new Iron Hoof?...”
Both Captain Sail and Siren replied at the exact same time, “Sebastian…”

The leviathan thought to himself as he replied, “I see… then… he is an enemy to Home from the outside seas?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… he is…”
The Leviathan closed his eyes and nodded his head before sighing in disappointment as he opened his eyes back up and looked at Siren, “Then… I owe you an apology… since he is no subject of mine, I will allow anypony to kill him in any way they see fit… However, since he still commands the Iron Wing and its crew, who I will assume are still under my protection… I will not harm that ship. However… I am willing to lend my power to assist you in your trial, so long as you are the one to finish him.”
Captain Sail stepped forward as he replied, “Then I'll accept your help, but it’s only a start…”
The leviathan’s expression became unamused as he looked at Captain Sail, “Oh… a start to what?”

Captain Sail turned around and trotted to Siren as he turned back and stood shoulder to shoulder with her, put his hoof around her shoulder and replied, “We lost faith in you, my lord… so to rekindle that faith… we have an idea of how you can help us get the pearl back. Once ya do that… then all will be forgiven.”
Siren was surprised, partially of how he was standing with her, but mostly on his words as she replied, “Wait… we?... Us?... I thought you were going to leave?”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “You were goin’ to ask me to stay and help back at the mausoleum weren’t ya? S’pose I can wait till the pearl is back where it belongs before leaving these waters.”
Hearing this made her both happy and a little annoyed as she replied, “Stay and help… yea… that’s what I was going to ask.”

Not catching the tone in her voice, Captain Sail looked back at the leviathan as the mighty god replied, “You have the gull to make demands of me captain?... What sort of ruler would I be to yield to a pirate from the main seas?”
Captain Sail shook his head as he smiled in a clever way, “Demand?... now I ain’t one to be makin’ demands from a titan… no these are just… prayers… and though they are suggested, that’s what the hippogriffs will see them as… just prayers, to a god…”
seeing his clever play on words, The Leviathan smiled as he replied, “I see… then feel free to prey captain. Perhaps, I will answer them accordingly as long as they meet my previously stated requirement.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Then it’s time to get back what was taken.”

Ch14 Battle at Sea, The Tide Vs. The Wing

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“WHY ISN’T IT WORKING!?!”
In a fit of anger, Iron Hoof punched the mystical purple pearl as the metal chime from his horseshoe echoed through the cargo hold of the Iron Wing. Nervous for their lives, the surrounding crew in the hold held their silence as Iron Hoof turned around and looked over them, “Well?...”
The crew looked at one another as one replied, “I’m not sure captain… I was certain the iron horseshoes were the key.”
Iron Hoof looked at the sailor as he replied, “Certain… you were certain… YOU BLASTED FOOL!!! I don’t need certain, I need it to work!”
He looked at an older sailor, “You! You were under the last Iron Hoof when he attacked the Annabelle right? What did he do to activate this thing?”

The sailor replied, “I… I don’t know capt’n… he just held it and waved his hoof over the top of it towards us… then we changed.”
Iron Hoof took the pearl and held it up in his hoof as he waved the other hoof over it, “Like this?”
With nothing happening, the sailor replied, “Well… sort of… it was more like spreading seeds in a field or somthin’.”
Iron Hoof tossed the pearl to the hippogriff sailor as he spoke, “How?… Show me!”
As the hippogriff unexpectedly caught the pearl, he held it in his talon as he started to reply, “Well, first he held it like this… then he started to wave his hoof over the top of it. Kinda like…”
Slowly the hippogriff started to wave his other talon over the pearl, as he did the hippogriff could see a slight glow start to emerge from the mystic pearls center. However, before Iron Hoof could notice the light, a call came from a higher deck, “Captain! My want to get topside, we got a storm brewin’.”

Confused, the captain looked towards the stairs as he mumbled, “Storm?... there weren’t a cloud in the sky a minute ago…” he looked back to the sailor, “Belay the lesson for now… I need to see to this.”
With that Captain Iron Hoof and most of his crew left the cargo bay as the sailor holding the pearl and another standing next to him remained as the other sailor spoke, “The pearl… was it?...”
The hippogriff holding the pearl put his finger in front of his beak as if to say shush while he placed the pearl back into a padded chest and spoke, “Captain needs us up on deck, let’s go see what he needs.”
Nodding in agreement to both the order and the dishonest action, the second sailor followed as the two locked the pearl in its chest and left the cargo hold.

Up on the main deck of the Iron Wing, Captain Iron Hoof and his crew looked to the sky as Iron Hoof spoke in confusion, “A storm brewin’… and a moment ago it seemed as if the sun would beam down on us for the rest of the day.”
A hippogriff called from the main deck as he spoke, “It’s a bad omen capt’n! a storm this fast has to be the leviathans doin’.”
Captain Iron Hoof replied in irritation, “I be the only god on these waters worth fearin’. Shift the course towards Home, I will get the power in that pearl even if I have cut it out of the priestess’s flesh.”

Not far over the horizon, the Bloody Tide sailed unknowingly towards the Iron Wing as a voice echoed from beneath the waves, “Captain… your prey lays on your current course… and it’s as you say. He is no subject of mine.”
Captain Sail nodded as he spoke from the helm, “Aye… and thank ya for answerin’ my prayer your lordship… I think your subjects may have a different light on you from here on out.”
The voice replied, “I suppose you are right… to insure a fair sea battle, the storm above is my gift. It will not rain anything upon you, nor will it allow anything else to do the same. However, as I mentioned earlier, it will be up to you and my guardian to kill Iron Hoof. I will accept collateral damage to his crew, but keep in mind, it is Iron Hoof that is your target. I would like to spare as many of his crew as possible.”

Though he didn’t like that, Captain Sail nodded in irritation as Siren stood next to him and replied, “Understood… we will do our best.”
The leviathan answered, “Then I shall leave you in peace… good luck to you both.”
With nothing more to say on the subject, the leviathan stealthily swam away without anypony aboard the Bloody Tide noticing as Captain Sail spoke to Siren, “Ya ready for this battle lass?”
Siren smiled, “Aye Captain… I aim to take back what’s mine… I know ya don’t care to take Iron Hoof’s head anymore, but are ya still willin’ to race to claim it?
Captain Sail smiled, “Ya know I can’t turn down a challenge from the Siren of Pirate Cove.”
With the two accepting each other’s challenge, their smiles were overshadowed from a voice on the main deck as it called, “Get your Land lobbin’, beak nosed, winged plots on those guns NOW!!! You’re on my ship now, and I won’t have the capt’n guns ill kept nor unarmed for this or any fight! Work smartly or I'll pluck your hippogriff feathers and shove ya in the howitzer to see if they help ya fly any better then they help ya scratch your plots!!!”

Working faster, the hippogriff sailors rushed to load the cannons as Powder Keg smiled at their progress as Captain Sail called from the helm, “Enjoyin’ the new hooves Mr. Keg?”
Powder Keg smiled as he replied, “It’s all about the language and culture captain. Once ya understand how to talk to ‘em, it’s easy getting ‘em in line.”
all of a sudden there was a loud thump as a hippogriff dropped a cannon ball on the deck as Powder Keg looked back at him and spoke, “Oh I’m sorry… did ya break your nail lassie?... Get that ball up and loaded or I'll test that same shot on your head!!!”
Working fast the hippogriff frantically picked up the cannon ball and went back to work on the cannon as Captain Sail smiled, “Keep up the good work Mr. Keg. We’ll make fine sailors of them yet.”

As the crew continued working, Siren spoke, “Probably would have been better to leave them on Home like the Queen suggested.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… but we left our surgeon behind to continue helping the wounded, and we can use the spare hoo… talons. Sides, they know the risk of bein’ here and they volunteered on their own. Better a volunteer crew, then a shanghaied one.”
Siren nodded as she replied with a thankful tone, “Aye… and for good reason too… We lost a lot of families in the attack yesterday. Even the foals wanted to join in on today’s fight… I’m happy you wouldn’t let them. Just… I’m grateful that you decided to help us.”
Captain Sail smiled, “S’pose if I had anythin’ better to be doin’, I would still find an excuse to stay and help. Sides, I did all this work to make you into a good captain, so I s’pose I should see it through and help you get your ship and crew back. Just remember your side of the bargain lass.”
Siren smiled, “Don’t count your loot too soon captain. You’ll get your song all in due time.”

Before Captain Sail could reply, the barrel colt called from the crow’s nest, “Capt’n!!! It’s as the beast said! I can see a mast on the horizon! It’s got to be the Iron Wing!”
Pinpoint looked out over the sea with a spyglass, as he smiled, “Looks like we have the Wing on our bow captain. Shall we strike the colors?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye make the call Mr. Po- on second thought…” he turned to Siren, “Why don’t you make the call Lass? It’ll be good practice for ya.”
Siren smiled and nod, “Would be an honor and pleasure captain.”
Siren Stepped forward and called, “ALL HOOVES ON DECK!!! Ready the cannons and get to your stations! Barrel colt! Strike the Colors… and while you’re at it… Show them the color of blood!”

The barrel colt smiled with a sinister grin as he replied, “Will be a pleasure Miss Siren.”
As the barrel colt moved to follow the order, Captain Sail stepped forward and corrected him, “That’s Captain!... and don’t ya forget it!”
With that, Siren looked at Captain Sail and smiled with pride as he looked back at her and smiled. As they did this, Pinpoint saw them and sighed, “Welp, I guess this was bound to happen eventually. Better late than never I s’pose.”
Captain Sail looked at Pinpoint, “What was that Mr. Point?”
Pinpoint shrugged his shoulders, “Nothin’ captain… nothin’ at all.”
Captain Sail ignored the comment and looked to Powder Keg, “Mr. Keg… you heard the lass, your station for this battle will be the crow’s nest. Mr. Point can handle the gun teams hear.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’n I'll get up there.”
Captain Sail added, “And don’t forget your musket. We will be relyin’ on your keen shots to cover us while we face Iron Hoof.”

Far off on the Iron Wing, the Iron Pirate’s barrel colt called, “Captain Iron Hoof! Mast off our starboard bow! It’s the Bloody Tide!”
hearing the order, The new quartermaster pulled out a spyglass, only to have it yanked from his hoof as Iron Hoof brought it up to look through it. When he did however, his usual reflexes brought it up to his missing eye as he quickly realized his mistake and shifted it to his other eye as he looked over the sea to his enemy’s ship. As he saw the Bloody Tide, Iron Hoof smiled, “Well well… it’s as if fate wanted one of us to settle this score… and his roger is joined by a red flag.” He lowered the spyglass and gave a sinister smile, “Good… then it’s a battle to the death he wants.”
Iron Hoof passed the spyglass back to his first mate as he called over his ship, “Captain Sail has returned to claim my head! But he will find that the Iron Pirates ain’t willin’ to roll over and show our bellies to anypony from the main seas! Let’s show him why the name Iron Hoof is a name of legend!”

Before he could say anything else, the first mate spoke up, “Captain… what about the ship? Are we in the proper state to face him?”
With that, Iron Hoof looked at the scorch marks that rested along the forecastle, then he looked down at his hooves at the freshly replaced timber beneath him as he replied, “Repairs are done… so there should be no need to worry. Sides, we ain’t gonna let him get close enough to hit us as hard as he did before.” He looked over the deck of his ship as he pointed at a few sailors, “You three! Load and aim the Howitzer! We’re gonna strike him down before he can get into range. The rest of you! Get your heads out of your plots and get this ship ready for battle! Load all cannons and strike the colors with a red flag… the story of this ghost hunter ends today!”

Back on the Tide, Captain Sail and his crew readied their guns as Captain Sail looked to Siren, “What do ya say lass? Aim for their bow?”
Siren shook her head, “No, I’m sure he removed the Greek fire. Even an idiot like him won’t make the same mistake twice.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, then what’s the call. We are takin on your ship so I'll let you decide how we take her.”
Siren replied, “As quickly as we can… a few vollies with the cannons then a close grind along her hull to hook and lock her down. Then we can have a close… chat with the Iron pirates.”
Captain Sail smiled, “A bold plan… but can your ship take it?”
Siren smiled, “She may have taken a beatin in our last meeting… but she is as tough as I… the real question is… can your Tide handle it?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye lass… No ship can topple the Tide.”
Siren smiled, “Then le-”
Before she could finish, a loud shot was heard as the howitzer on the Iron Wing fired a shot that flew into the sky and vanished into the clouds. Seeing this, Captain Sail called, “Everypony Brace for impact!!!”
High in the sky, the howitzer shell and its lit fuse flipped towards its target, however as it flew through the clouds, unseen sub-zero tempratures started consuming the shell in frost as it starting to form over the solid black bomb making the solid iron casing slowly turned grey while snuffing the lit fuse out.

Back on the sea, everypony aboard the Bloody Tide braced themselves for impact as the brittle ball of iron came in from above as it hit the base of the mast putting a small gash in the solid post as it shattered the frozen howitzer shell like a crystal ball. As the shards of iron scattered over the deck of the Bloody Tide, the surprised crew stopped bracing themselves as Pinpoint trotted down to the main deck as he picked up a shard of the shell and called, “Its frozen captain… shattered like a block of ice.”
Captain Sail was confused as Siren spoke, “Hm… so that’s what the leviathan meant by a gift that wont let anythin’ rain… he must have made the clouds some sort of freezer for anything that would try to fly through it.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… he truly does want this to be a fair sea battle… then let’s not disappoint.” He looked forward, “Back to stations, all ahead sails!”

Back on the Iron Wing, Iron Hoof was confused, “What?... Why didn’t the shell explode?”
The hippogriffs on the howitzer replied, “Captain… somthin’ went wrong with the shell… the clouds must have put out the fuse or somthin’. S’pose it’s the Leviathan’s doin’?”
Iron Hoof was angry, “Blast you Sail… you and your god.” He called, “Unfurl all sails!!! Let’s take this fight to his deck!”
Both ships now headed for each other as both captains of both vessels had full intentions of killing the other. As the ships started to get within five hundred meters of each other, Captain Iron Hoof called, “Hard to port! Line them up with our cannons!”
With that the helmscolt turned the helm till the Iron Wing’s starboard cannons were pointing directly at the Bloody Tide as Captain Sail saw the action and called, “Ready the Guns and bring her to port! If it’s a shootout they want then lets oblige!”

As the order was called, the helmscolt of the Bloody Tide turned their helm to line up their cannons. Once both ships had their starboard cannons lined up with one another, their helms colts started turning to the starboard side as they began circling each other while leaving their cannons lined up with their enemies. With both ships now turning to starboard and both lines of cannons pointed to their opponent, both captains looked at their enemies as they called at the exact same time, “FIRE!!!”
At that moment, Smoke filled the air between the two circling ships as cannonballs from both ships flew through the air and pommeled the opposite ship. With sailors from both ships bracing for impact and trying to reload the cannons Captain Sail called, “Keep at it lads we on-”
At that moment, a cannonball flew by and hit the railing of the upper deck as most of the shattering rail few through the air hitting and killing the helmscolt as the unfortunate stallion fell to the deck and released the helm.

With the Bloody Tide no longer turning, the hail of cannonballs from the Iron Wing started changing their focus from the center of the starboard side of the Bloody Tide to the stern. With the cannon fire getting closer to them, Siren rushed to the helm and grabbed it as she spoke, “Blast! We can’t hold this too much longer captain!”
Taking it upon herself, Siren kept their straight heading for a few more meters before pulling hard to starboard as she turned the vessel around and lined up with the pursuing Iron Wing. As she made this action Captain Sail could see that they were now on a collision course with the Iron Wing as he watched Siren call over the deck, “FIRE THE CHASE GUNS AND READY THE HOOKS!!! Boarding parties ready your swords, it’s time to take the fight to them!”

By this time, the crew of the Bloody Tide didn’t need confirmation from their captain as the chase guns started going off while Siren looked at Captain Sail and replied, “Time to end this captain… you in?”
Captain Sail smiled, “With you lass?… count on it.”
She smirked, “I would say in your dreams… but now… there’s a chance.”
With their foe now on their bow, Iron Hoof called, “Fire the chase guns and ready the hooks… I want Captain Sail’s head on a pike!”
The Iron Wing and the Bloody Tide fired a barrage of cannons at each other as both ships closed in on with absolutely no hesitation in their speed, cannon fire, or intent.

As the ships approached each other, the captain of both ships called to their crews, “BRACE!!!”
At that moment, the two ships collided as the angle of their impact caused The Bloody Tide to grind along the starboard side of the Iron Wing as both crews tried to jump aboard the opposing ship or throw grappling hooks to it. Although the hooks on both ships locked properly, the damaged railing of the Iron Wing broke them free as the force of both ships pulled them apart leaving the Bloody Tide to pass by the Iron Wing with a small number of opposing crews fighting on the opposite ships. Seeing that a few Iron Hoof pirates were on his ship, Captain Sail called, “Gunners! Suppress those stowaways!!! Mr. Point! On the helm! Lass, you’re with me, I hope you got your dagger ready. We’ll need all hooves for this fight.”
With that, Pinpoint trotted up to the top deck as he passed his sword to Captain Sail before taking the helm from Siren. Siren felt concerned though, “What about you’re other sailors on the Iron Wing? Will they be alright?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Thinkin’ ‘bout the crew?... Good lass, we’ll make a fine captain of you yet. Don’t worry about them, I have a special order for just such an occasion.”

Over on the Iron Wing the small group of Crimson Pirates looked around as one spoke, “The Tide has passed! You know what to do lads!”
Another called, “Aye, MAKE FOR THE RIGGING!”
With that order the surrounded group of pirates immediately started climbing up the Jacob’s ladder as a small few fought to keep the iron pirates from following. With a number of Crimson Pirates climbing into his sails, Iron Hoof didn’t notice the Bloody Tide turning around to pursue as he called, “Ready the muskets!!!”
With that call, a create was pulled from below deck as the Iron Hoof pirates opened it and began pulling out muskets as they started to open fire on the intruding pirates. Though many were able to duck behind the sails for concealment, the canvas wasn’t enough to stop the lead shots as one by one the Crimson Pirates started to fall.

Luckily, as the Crimson Pirates continued climbing into the rigging they started cutting lines and sails leaving the Iron Wing to slow down as the Bloody Tide started closing in from behind. With all his focus on the stowaways, Iron Hoof called, “Stop fooling around and kill them already! You lot are a bunch o-”
“CAPT’N!!! THE BLOODY TIDE!!!”
As soon as the warning was called, the Bloody Tide had already caught up to its target as the frigate colligated a second time with the Iron Wing, only this time it was from behind as it grinded along the port side with hooks flying over the Iron Wing. As the grappling hooks fell onto the unsuspecting ship, one landed on the Iron Wing’s helmscolt as the sudden jerk on the line caused it to dig into his body, killing him while pulling him away from the helm and preventing the Iron Wing from escaping a second boarding attempt. As the hooks locked onto the Iron Wing, the Crimson Pirates wasted no time in pulling the two ship together as the crews tried all they could to tie the ships together. When both ships were tied, the captain of each vessel gave their orders, starting with Captain Iron Hoof, “Kill as many as you can, but remember, Captain Sail is mine! Attack!!!”
Captain Sail called, “Take ‘em down however you please gents! But as for Iron Hoof?... My fight be my fight!”

Knowing what the term meant, the crew of the Bloody Tide drew their weapons, as they and the Iron Hoof Pirates clashed in a fight that turned the deck of both ships into a miniature battlefield. Seeing all the combat on the main deck, Siren wasted no time as she drew her dagger and jumped from the upper deck as she landed on an Iron Hoof pirate, digging the blade into his back and killing him instantly. After pulling her dagger from the dead sailor, Siren wasted no time as she darted across the main deck slashing every enemy she could while aiming for throats, arteries and other fatal weakpoints. Seeing her attacks, a larger Iron Pirate at the end of the deck, saw her coming as he drew his sword and blocked her attack before using his strength to push her back a few steps from him. Seeing that she was outweighed, Siren planed her next move as the large stallion swung his sword with a vertical strike. Seeing this, Siren used a combination of the dagger and her Iron horseshoes to block the attack, then using his weight against him, she shifted her dagger to the side as she caused the large hippogriff’s blade to dig into the ground as the nimble mare’s hooves stayed protected while she stepped onto the pinned sword. Using her horseshoes with her speed, Siren was able to use the step of the sword to lung forward and jump off the Stallion’s chest doing a backflip and kicking the stallion with her hind hooves in the process. As she leveled out in midair, Siren then proceeded to throw her dagger as the blade dug into the underside of the sunned stallion’s jaw as it immediately killed her target, leaving him to fall back and hit the ground at about the same time as she landed on her hooves.

Smiling at her accomplishment, Siren trotted up and reached for her dagger. However, as she did, she heard a battle cry from another Iron Hoof pirate as he came swinging in from a rope and tried dropping in on her with his sword drawn and ready to kill her. With No time to defend, Siren could only watch as her death seemed imminent, however just as the sailor was close, a shot rang out as the sailor was thrown off course by a large caliber bullet, as he hit the ground a few feet short of his mark. Guessing at what it was that caused the sailor downfall, Siren looked to the Bloody Tides crow’s nest as she saw Powder Keg reloading his musket with a supporting smile while he gave her a trusting nod. Knowing that he had her back, Siren nodded back as she readied her dagger and continued the fight on the main deck.

Up in the crow’s nest, Powder Keg finished reloading his musket as he pointed it across to the Iron Wing’s crow’s nest before pressing the fire lever and hitting the Iron Wing’s Barrel colt with deadly accuracy. As the opposing barrel colt fell from his crow’s nest, Powder Keg went to work reloading his weapon as he scanned the area for his next target. Just as he finished loading his musket, an Iron Hoof Pirate climbed to the rail of his crow’s nest and swung his sword at Powder Keg leaving the gunner only enough time to duck under the unexpected attack. As the enemy pirate’s sword hit the mast behind Powder Keg, the gunner slightly tilted his musket upward as he pressed the firing lever, shooting the attacking pirate at point blank range and throwing him off the mast and onto the deck below. Taking the hint, Powder Keg drew his bayonet as he attached it to the end of his musket and began loading the next round.

As soon as his weapon was reloaded, another enemy pirate finished scaling the mast rigging as he poked his head over the crow’s nest railing and took a swing at Powder Keg. Expecting this, Powder Keg blocked the swing with his musket as he parried the blade, dug the bayonet into the foe, and pushed him away leaving yet another corpse to fall onto the battle below. Then as Powder Keg looked down across the Iron Wing’s deck to pick his next target, he spotted a gun crew as they finished loading the howitzer and turned it in his direction so that it would fire directly at him. Seeing this Powder Keg mumbled, “Uh oh…”
Wasting no time, the frantic gunner reached for a rope as he spoke while readying himself to jump, “Crap, crap, crap, crap, crap, crap, shi-”
Before he could continue, the howitzer fired off as the flying shell hit the bottom corner of the crow’s nest, causing an explosion that tossed Powder Keg out of his post, over the upper deck and off the ship as he splashed into the water a few feet from the stern of the Bloody Tide. His musket however fell short as it landed on the upper deck of the Tide as the sound of its landing caught Captain Sail off guard.

Seeing the musket without its shooter, Captain Sail looked to Pinpoint and spoke, “Mr. Point! We got a stallion overboard!”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye Captain I got him.”
With that Pinpoint rushed to the railings as he lowered himself down to retrieve their master gunner. With his focus on Pinpoint’s actions, Captain Sail wasn’t paying attention to his surroundings as he started to sense something. Reacting fast, Captain Sail quickly turned around, raised the sword he was given, and blocked an incoming attack as both the attacker and his target locked both blades and eyes. With a sneering glare, Captain Sail’s attacker looked passed the interlocked swords as he spoke, “Sail…”
Captain Sail smiled, “Sabastian….”

With anger, Iron Hoof pushed himself away from Captain Sail as the two captain’s stared each other down from about five paces away. With safe distance between them, Iron Hoof spoke, “You got a lot of nerve showin’ your face on these seas… especially after what you did to me.”
Captain Sail looked at his enemy’s eyepatch as he smiled, “Oh, I'd consider it an improvement… nothin’ attracts the lasses more than a battle scare. Though I can’t do much with the rest of your face.”
Iron Hoof replied with an unamused tone, “So that’s all ya got… petty insults? Seems your stories were exaggerated a bit.”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Aye… as were yours…” he looked at the Iron Wing, “Brown cotton sails… and here I was told they were made of leather from your victims’ hides.”
Iron Hoof smiled, “Ain’t quite lived up to the legend have we?”
Captain Sail readied his stance as he replied, “Then shall we finish it? Mr. Ghost?...”
Iron Hoof readied his stance and paused for a brief moment as he replied, “On your guard, Ghost Hunter!”

Ch15 The End of Iron Hoof

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Sparks flew onto the older captain’s face as Captain Sail blocked a power driven swing from Iron Hoof’s sword. Without flinching to the sparks, Captain Sail parried the blade away as he returned the attack with a lunging horizontal swing. Iron Hoof ducked under the blade and jumped forward, as he swung himself behind Captain Sail before trying to strike him on the back of his neck. Expecting the attack, Captain Sail raised his sword up and brought it around behind him as he blocked attack before kicking back with his hind hooves hitting Iron Hoof in his chest and momentarily stunning the one eyed pirate. With his foe stunned, Captain Sail preceded to parry the blocked blade as he swung his body and sword around trying to hit Iron Hoof with a horizontal swing as Iron Hoof jumped back to both dodge the attack and gain some distance from his experienced foe.

As Iron Hoof fell back to a safe distance, he rubbed chest as he spoke, “Very good Captain… You ain’t one to disappoint when it comes to an excitin’ fight.”
Captain Sail nodded as he readied his stance, “I should say the same… Did Iron Hoof teach you to fight?... I mean… the real Iron Hoof?”
Iron Hoof smiled, “So you know the truth then do ya?… funny, I figured you’d thank me… I avenged Captain Sail, The Annabelle and everypony on board. And yet… you still raise your blade to me… Why is that I wonder?”
Captain Sail smiled, “You raised yours first… I’m only returnin’ the favor.”
At that moment, Iron Hoof sensed danger as he quickly raised his blade up and held it in front of his neck as a dagger came from behind his back and pressed against it with the intent of slitting his throat from behind.

Relived that he was able to save his life at the last second, Iron Hoof was able to keep the dagger’s blade from touching his throat as he turned his head slightly to see its wielder out the corner of his eye, “Nice try Siren… you truly are your father’s daughter. Even from behind you still go for the vital spots… Just like a killer.”
Trying to pull the blade closer to his throat Siren replied, “I told you… I’m going to kill you. Now give up and accept your fate.”
With a confident smile on his face, the stronger stallion started pushing against his sword edging her dagger further and further from his neck as Siren’s expression became surprised while he replied, “Sorry lass… But my fate… is to remain Iron Hoof!”
With that said, Iron Hoof was able to reach around behind his head as he grabbed Siren by the back of her neck as he threw her over his shoulder and slammed her on the deck below him. With Siren now on the ground in front of him, Iron Hoof raised his sword to stab her where she laid, but as he did, Captain Sail charged across the deck and used his shoulder to tackle Iron Hoof and push him away from where Siren was laying.

As the surprised Captain stumbled to regain his balance, he looked back at Captain Sail as he stood over Siren with his sword ready, “You want the lass… you go through me first.”
Seeing this made Iron Hoof smiled, “Ahh… so that’s what it is. You didn’t come this way to face me captain… you came to impress her.”
Unconcerned with his comment, Captain Sail replied, “Are you so sure?”
Iron Hoof replied, “I may only have one eye… but even I can see that the only reason you’re here is because you fancy her. And who can blame ya… a mare as fine as Siren Hoof is a rarity in these waters.”
Siren sneered at Iron Hoof as Captain Sail smiled, “Aye… I’ll agree to that.”
Without expecting the answer, Siren looked at Captain Sail and blushed as he continued, “A mare as fine and fair as this, is truly a treasure, that shines brighter than any gold I have ever set my eyes upon. But I ain’t doin’ this for her lad… even if I do fancy her. The reason I’m fightin’ is cuz the Iron Hoof I came here to kill proved to be nobler then I expected him to be… but you… are far worse. You may have avenged my father as you say… but if he knew that a member of his crew would stoop so low as to attack a harmless island for no reason other than to sully his own vengeance, then he would role over in his own grave.”

Iron Hoof smiled, “And yet you’ve hurt plenty of ponies for your same vengeance right?... so what makes you different from me?”
Captain Sail smiled sinisterly, “Aye… you could call me a hypocrite if ya want… But from all the innocent ships I’ve attacked to seek my revenge… I’ve never attacked any ship nor settlement that welcomes us pirates. No matter what treasure they hide. And by you attakin’ a place like Home… you pass yourself as something worse than a pirate. You’re just a two bit crook, with a ship.”
Knowing that Captain Sail was playing with his anger, Iron Hoof smiled as he replied, “Sticks and stones captain… Sticks and stones.”
Captain Sail smiled in a mocking manner, “Then s’pose I should us cannonballs… they seemed to do enough of a number on your face… I ain’t good at math… but I believe the number it did was… minus one.”

Hearing the mocking enraged the one eyes pirate as his smile turned to a sneer as he replied, “Mock me all ya want captain… but I'll gladly watch as my crew cut both your eyes out slowly, but not before I make you watch as I kill the lass that you’ve fallen for.”
With that, Iron Hoof charged towards the two as Captain Sail also charged forward as they both swung their swords at the same time, causing both blades to clash together before locking each other in a stalemate. Seeing the opportunity, Siren picked herself up and charged behind Captain Sail as she used his back to step up before leaping over him in order to bring her dagger down on Iron Hoof’s face. Seeing the incoming dagger, Iron Hoof quickly saved himself by rolling to the side while leaving both Captain Sail and Siren to continue passed Iron Hoof without landing a single hit.

When they both reacted, Siren turned and tried to hit Iron Hoof with a horizontal swing while Captain Sail tried to thrust his sword forward to dig his sword in Iron Hoof’s chest. Seeing his disadvantage immediately, Iron Hoof held his sword vertical as he brought it over his chest to both deflect and block both his enemies’ weapons at the same time. Trying to even the field, Iron Hoof reached up with his other front hoof and punched Captain Sail as hard as he could as the metal on his hoof tripled its impact causing Captain Sail to take a number of steps back before digging his sword into the deck to hold himself up while he regained his senses. With Captain Sail momentarily neutralized, Iron Hoof was free to parry Siren’s dagger away as he made an attempt to punch her the same way. Seeing what happened to Captain Sail, Siren jumped back and dodged the punch as Iron Hoof smiled, “You would have made a fine first mate lass… too bad… your lineage will soon end.”
Siren glared at Iron Hoof as she replied, “If I go down… I will take you and the Wing with me…”

With that Siren Charged at Iron Hoof as he replied while she swung her dagger, “Brave choice of words lass…”
As she swung her dagger, Iron Hoof shifted his sword to his opposite hoof as he brought his now unarmed right hoof up and blocked her dagger as he continued, “But problem is…”
With Siren’s dagger blocked, there was nothing to stop him as Iron Hoof thrusted his sword into her chest as far as it could go, leaving Siren to gasp in shock, as Iron Hoof whispered into her ear, “You will be taken that trip alone…”
With that said, Iron Hoof pushed Siren off his sword as she fell onto the deck dropping her dagger and trembling as her body began feeling the pain of being impaled. As the shock over took her body, Siren tried to pick herself up, but it was as if her muscles were refusing to lift her body as she was only able to roll onto her side and look up at Iron Hoof as he raised his sword up, “Say goodbye Siren Hoof!”

Iron Hoof tried to bring his sword down to kill Siren but as he did, Captain Sail, who had regained his senses charged at Iron Hoof and tried to strike him as he yelled in rage, “YOU’LL BE REGRETTIN’ THAT!!!”
Iron Hoof turned quickly enough to block Captain Sail’s attacks, however with anger controlling Captain Sail’s swings, He was only able to block as the fierce pirate captain continued attacking with rage filled strikes. As Iron Hoof backed up with each block, Siren who was barely able to move watched as Captain Sail pushed Iron Hoof back across the upper deck as he was forced closer and closer to the ships starboard rail. With some of her strength returning to her, Siren paned her head across the deck as she tried to locate her dagger. However as she looked for her weapon, she spotted somepony else’s that would work just as good as she used what strength she had to reach for it.

With Iron Hoof Stepping back to each of Captain Sail’s fierce attacks, it wasn’t long before the defending captain found himself pinned to the Starboard railing as the two locked swords with Iron Hoof speaking through his struggle, “Didn’t think ya for the emotional type… Why react this way… She’s nothing more than a harlot. A Siren to con ignorant sailors into their watery graves. Barely a pirate at all.”
Captain Sail replied through his anger, “Say what ya like boyo… but all in all, she’s twice the pirate you are, or will ever be. Cuz today… You will die, Sabastian.”
Iron Hoof smiled through his strain as he replied, “That’s Iron Hoof… or s’pose I should remind you the HARD WAY!!!”
With that, Iron Hoof shifted his sword far enough to the side, so that he was still protected from Captain Sail’s as he swung his other hoof towards his enemy in an attempt to punch him in the face with his horseshoes.

Seeing the attack, Captain Sail jumped back and slightly to the side to avoid the punch, however as he did, another attack came from behind as a musket’s bayonet blade cut along Captain Sail’s shoulder as the weapon flew passed hitting and digging into Iron Hoof’s chest as the mare wielding the musket pinned Iron Hoof back to the railing, while using her own weight to keep him there. As the traitorous Pirate felt the combination of a bayonet blade piercing his body and the muzzle of a musket hitting his chest, Iron Hoof’s strength seemed to flee from his body, as he dropped his sword, put his hooves on the Muskets barrel and tried to push the weapon out of his body. However, with Siren using all of her bodyweight to hold him down, the weakened earth pony was unsuccessful as Siren glared at Iron Hoof and spoke, “I told you Sabastian… you haven’t earned the title of Iron Hoof… and now, you will never be Iron Hoof.”

Coughing up a little blood, Iron Hoof looked towards the bayonet which couldn’t be seen since it was in his chest, then he ran his eyes up the barrel till he was looking Siren in the eye. As he looked at his enemy’s eyes, Iron hoof soon paned his gaze onto her wound that was left in her chest as he as he smiled, “Well done lass… but I ain’t the only one who won’t be holding that title.”
Realizing his point, Siren looked down at her wound which was still bleeding as Iron Hoof continued, “Seems like neither of us will live to captain the Iron Wing. I’ll applaud you in this victory lass… but in the end… it was for not. I’ll see you in hell, Siren Hoof…”

Weak as he was, Iron Hoof still had the energy to chuckle at Siren’s misfortune as Siren looked at her wound for a second longer as she thought over his words before replying in a serious tone, “The deepest, darkest circle of hell… is reserved for traitors and mutineers.”
Iron Hoof silenced his chuckling as Siren looked up, glared at him with a sinister smiled, then she pulled back the hammer on the musket as she continued, “Meaning… you won’t see me when I arrive.”
Iron Hoof could only give her a confused stare, as Siren pressed the firing lever causing the high caliber musket to fire off, pushing Iron Hoof off of the bayonet as his body was tossed through the ships railing and into the sea below.

With the Shot echoing out over the decks of the ships, a number of the fighting pirates paused as they looked towards the top deck of the Bloody Tide to see that out of the three captains fighting on the top deck, only two remained. With the silence starting to spread through the herd, the pirates of both crews slowly ended the fighting as the Iron Hoof pirates began dropping their weapons as they put their hooves and talons in the air as they surrendered to the Crimson Pirates. With that all Crimson Pirates began cheering as Pinpoint came climbing over the railing of the main deck with Powder Keg on his shoulder as Powder Keg spoke, “Wait… we missed the rest of the fight… that’s disappointin’.” Pinpoint angrily threw him onto the deck, “Hey!?!”
Pinpoint replied in irritation, “Next time, stay on the ship ya halfcocked swab.”

As the ships cheered with the victory, Siren lowered Powder Keg’s musket as she looked at Captain Sail and spoke, “So… this is what it feels like to fodder a traitor?”
Captain Sail nodded as she smiled, “Feels good… I could get used to this.”
At first Captain Sail smiled as her comment but before he could reply, Siren succumbed to her wound as she dropped the musket and fell to the deck leaving him to rush to her side, “Lass!!!”
As Captain Sail looked over her wound, he started to become worried, “S-surgeon… Surgeon!” he looked onto the main deck, “Where is the blasted surgeon!!!”
Pinpoint and Powder Keg rushed to the top deck to help. As they reached Siren’s weak body, Captain Sail spoke, “Mr. Point… Find the surgeon and get his plot her-”
Pinpoint interrupted, “Captain… we left him back on Home to help the Hippogriffs.”

Captain Sail replied with an almost frantic tone, “Then get on the helm and set a course for Home. We need to get their bef-”
Again Captain Sail was interrupted, only this time it was Siren as she took his hoof and replied, “No, captain… even I know that there is no saving me… If we set a course for home… I'll be dead before we get there.”
Pinpoint nodded, “She’s right… her wound is all the way through… and from its angle, we won’t be able to stop the bleeding.”
Captain Sail shook his head in denial as he replied, “Then what do we d…”
Knowing what he was about to ask, Pinpoint butted in as he interrupted, “Captain? If you have an order to give? I'd make it now…”

All of a sudden a pair of hippogriffs approached, “Captain Sail… Captain Iron Hoof…”
Both captains looked at the Hippogriffs as they placed a chest on the deck as one spoke, “This belongs to you.”
That said, the two opened the chest and revealed the Leviathan’s pearl as Siren reached out and picked it up, “Good… it survived the fight.”
She handed it to Captain Sail as she spoke, “Captain… For your help… I'll present your prize.”
Captain Sail looked at the magic that could clearly be seen inside the pearl as he shook his head, “No Lass… this belongs to Home. And… its guardian.”
Captain Sail handed it back as Siren took the pearl and smiled, “Then… that’s where it will go…”
She placed it back in the chest, “Take this to Captain Sail’s quarters.”

As the Iron Pirates took the chest to Captain Sail’s cabin, Siren Looked at Captain Sail and spoke, “Captain… Could you do me a favor and help me to my ship… I need to give my crew their orders.”
At first he didn’t want to move her, but since it was her request, Captain Sail put her hoof over his shoulder as he carried Siren to the Iron Wing as she mumbled, “Ya know… since I was a little filly… I always wanted to fall in love the same way Chrysanthemum and the original Iron Hoof did… and… now I have. You… the ghost hunter, hunting Iron Hoof who is your mortal enemy… and me… The new, Iron Hoof. It’s kinda funny, ain’t it?”
Captain Sail smiled as he started up the stairs of the Iron Wing to the upper deck, “that statement back there… about the pearl bein’ my prize… that was a test wasn’t it?”
Siren smiled, “Aye… and ya passed with flying colors. I knew you wouldn’t take the pearl. You may be a blood thirsty pirate… but your still a bit of a softie.”
Captain sail chuckled, “Lass, you ain’t as charmin as ya think you are.”
Siren smiled as she looked at her helm and replied, “You know very well, that I am as charming as I think… and more.”

As the two approached the helm of the Iron Wing, Siren struggled to stand on her own as she took the helm and smiled, “This… this feels good. After fighting all this way. I’m happy I’m finely here.”
Siren looked over the concerned faces of the two crews as they watched from both the main decks of the Iron Wing and the Bloody Tide, then she called, “Load all my cannons! I want every cannon on this ship loaded and ready for battle!!!”
A sailor from the Iron Pirates asked, “W-what shot… Capt’n?...”
She smiled at how she was addressed, then her expression became incredibly annoyed as she replied, “What’s that?... if I didn’t specify a shot… then that means I DON’T CARE!!! I told you dogs to load the cannons, now load em’, or so help me, I'll SHOVE YOUR PLOT IN THEM AND USE YOU AS SHOT!!!”
Hearing the angry threat, the same sailor looked over the crew as he called, “You heard the capt’n!!! Load all the cannons! Work smartly lads, Capt’n ain’t one to cross!”

As the crews worked to lead all the cannons on the Iron Wing, Siren watched them as she spoke to Captain Sail, “Captain… I… I want you to do something for me…”
Captain Sail heard the concern in her voice as he asked, “Aye lass… what is it ya need?”
Siren replied as she continued looking over the main deck, “I want you to take the Pearl back to Home… See to it that the priestess gets it… but first… I want you to sink the Iron Wing… and myself with it.”
Captain Sail was surprised, “W-what?...”
Siren looked at Captain Sail as she repeated, “You heard me… take the pearl and my crew with you… then… Sink the Iron Wing… with me on board.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “What are ya sayin lass?”

Siren replied with a serious tone, “Captain… you set out on the Bloody Tide for one reason. To find, and kill Iron Hoof. Well now, I’m Iron Hoof, and it seems like I won’t last much longer anyways, so… I think it’s time you do what you set out to do.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Lass… Siren… you’re asking me to do something that… I can’t do. All of this… all that we’ve been through… I… I just can’t.”
Wanting him to admit something, Siren replied “Give me a reason why…”
Captain Sail hesitated as he replied, “You know why lass… I said it to Sabastian while we fought him.”
Siren continued, “Then say it again… I want to hear it from you.”
Knowing he had no choice Captain Sail sighed, “Siren… I… I’m in love with you.”
Hearing it for the first time, most of the ponies standing around the two stared at Captain Sail in shock as Siren replied with an expression that was hard to read.

As everypony waited for Siren to reply, Captain Sail became impatient as he spoke, “You heard me right… and… it’s the truth. I’m in love wi-”
Before he could finish repeating himself, Siren reached out, grabbed the collar of his vest and pulled him in as she kissed him. Seeing the two embrace each other, most of the ponies on the upper deck looked away. Captain Sail and Siren embraced each other for a few seconds longer as a sailor from the main deck tried to speak as he cleared his throat, “Um… beggin’ your pardon capt’n… but… all cannons are loaded.”
Slowly the two captains stopped kissing as Siren and Captain Sail placed their foreheads against each other’s as Siren whispered, “You see… that’s why I want you to finish your task. You helped me to get my revenge… so… its time that you get yours.”
Captain Sail replied quietly, “If this is what it takes… I don’t want it.”
Siren replied, “A captain and her ship are one… they sail together, they fight together, and if done properly… they die together.”
Captain Sail could only smile at her words, “Seems your father taught you to be a better captain then I thought.”
She shook her head, “No… you did. And I will sing for you… but it won’t be today. Just be sure to listen for my song.”
Captain Sail nodded, “I will Siren… I will.”

Siren smiles at Captain Sail’s words before looking at her sailor and replying to his earlier comment, “Good, now… abandon ship!”
The sailor was confused, “Abandon ship?...”
Siren nodded, “Aye ya heard me right lads, you are no longer pirates of the Iron Wing. Captain Sail will take you back to Home and from there, you’re free to do whatever you please.”
The sailor started to argue, “But… Capt’n? What abo-”
Knowing that Siren didn’t have long Captain Sail became angry, “Do ya have barnacles in your ears, or did the last Iron Hoof spoil ya?!? Vacation’s over dogs! Your captain gave ya an order, now carry it out!!! Crimson Pirates! Assist the Iron Pirates all ya can, but don’t dally about! We ain’t got much time, and ya know how I dislike wastin’ it!”
Both crews nodded as they all started following the two captains’ orders as they started boarding the Bloody Tide and assisted all sailor in doing the same.

Seeing his reaction, Siren smiled as she replied, “So… you’re going to do it then… you’re going to sink the Wing?”
Although he didn’t like it, Captain Sail knew it was Siren’s last request so he sighed as he replied, “Aye lass… if that is what you want… then I'll ensure you go down with your ship.”
Siren smiled with tears rolling down her face as she replied, “Thank you captain… if it wasn’t for you… I wouldn’t be able to go in peace.”
Captain Sail smiled as he wiped away her tears and replied, “Captain Iron Hoof… are ya ready for what’s next?”
Siren nodded as she replied, “Aye, that I am Captain Sail… can I expect a good show?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… only the best, for the Siren of Pirate Cove.”
Siren looked over her helm as she replied, “Then… get on with it, Crimson Ghost Hunter.”

Captain Sail nodded as he looked over the ship at both crews as the last of the Iron Hoof pirates boarded the Bloody Tide, “All Sailors ready to make way! One thing left to do before we head to Home.”
With that Captain Sail made his way down to the main deck and stepped over to the Bloody Tide. Shortly after all sailor were aboard the Tide, the crimson pirates cut the lines that tied the ships together as Captain Sail called over the ship, “Let loose mains to half-mast! Move us out slowly!”
The crew started to unveil the sails as Captain Sail looked at Powder Keg and spoke, “Mr. Keg! Load all Cannons with explosive shot… and make ready to target the Iron Wing.”
Everypony looked at him in surprise as Powder Keg replied, “P-pardon capt’n?”
With no mood to argue, Captain Sail gave him an angry look as he replied, “Do I need to repeat myself?...”
Seeing the angry expression on his face, Powder Keg shook his head, “N-no capt’n. It’s just…”
Captain Sail interrupted, “Then do as I say… or clime into a cannon yourself… your choice.”

Powder Keg could see that his threat wasn’t something he wanted to challenge so he replied, “Aye, aye capt’n…” he looked over the ship, “Load the cannon! Explosive shot in all! Capt’n’s orders!”
The crew also hesitated in disbelief as Powder Keg yelled, “I SAID!!! LOAD THE CANNON!!! Get your plots in gear or I'll keel haul you all!!!”
The crew rushed to follow the order as Captain Sail spoke to the helm colt, “Turn us about… we need to bring the Iron Wing into range.”
As the helm colt did what he was told, Pinpoint approached him, “Captain… are ya sure you want to do this… I understand it’s her last request… but… can you do it?”
Captain Sail replied with an unamused tone, “In her honor… I have to.”
Pinpoint tried to argue, “Yea but s’pose you ca-”
“If there is another way tell me now… otherwise, Shut your gob!”
Knowing that the outburst was driven by pain, Pinpoint silenced himself as Powder Keg called, “All cannons loaded Capt’n… We are comin’ up on the Iron Wing now.”

Captain Sail looked across towards the Iron Wing as he saw Siren still standing at the helm as she looked over at him with little expression on her face. As he looked at her, Captain Sail hesitated as Powder Keg waited for his orders, “Capt’n?...”
Slowly the Bloody Tide started to cross paths with the Iron Wing as Pinpoint spoke, “Your orders Captain?”
Captain Sail didn’t acknowledge them, instead he continued to watch Siren from across the distance as she finally smiled and nodded in acceptance as Pinpoint asked one last time, “Captain? What is your order?...”
Captain Sail could only sigh in disappointment as he yelled loud enough for even Siren to hear, “FIRE ALL CANNON!!!”
Relaying the order Powder Keg looked to the crews, “FIRE!!!”
Hearing it one last time, a sailor standing on the stairs to the gun deck called below to the second level of cannons, “FIRE!!!”

With that order, the Cannons, fired off with their recoil jerking the ship slightly as a barrage of explosive cannonballs flew across the water as they peppered the Iron Wing sending all sorts of splinters and debris into the air as Siren only closed her eyes to protect herself from the airborne rubble. Less than a split second later, each shell which was either embedded on the Iron Wing or in the ocean on the other side, exploded as the explosive force of jerked Siren around as she tried to hold onto the helm as much as she could. Then as a shell logged in the main deck exploded, it tossed a cannon from its stand as the heavy iron barrel flew from the main deck colligating with the upper decks rail as the impact knocked Siren off the helm as she disappeared amongst the smoke from all the explosions.

Seeing this from the upper deck of the Bloody Tide, caused Captain Sail to call out in worry, “SIREN!”
The crimson pirates looked to their captain in surprise. Even Pinpoint, who had been his quartermaster since the very beginning never saw any outburst of worry from Captain Sail at all… not even from the safety of his own crew. With his mind off of his crew, Captain Sail watched in worry as he waited to see Siren emerge from the upper deck of the Iron Wing. As he watched, a lantern which was damaged on the Iron Wing’s main deck ignited its own oil as the fire started spreading creating smoke and flames aboard the now distant ship. With visibility becoming hazy, Captain Sail looked to his helmscolt and spoke, “Bring her about!”
Hearing the worry in his voice, the helmscolt replied as he turned the Bloody Tide around, “Aye aye capt’n.”

With the Bloody Tide turning back to the now burning Iron Wing, Captain Sail watched the helm in anticipation as he waited for any sign that Siren was alright. As he watched, he sighed in relief when he saw a hoof reach up and grab the center wheel as Siren soon emerged as she climbed back up the Helm as if it were an unstable ladder. As Siren finally regained her position on the helm Captain Sail smiled in relief until Pinpoint spoke, “Captain… She’s still afloat…”
Quickly his smile faded as Captain Sail realized what he had to do next as he watched Siren looked back to him. Seeing this, Captain Sail felt uneasy as Pinpoint turned to his captain and spoke, “Captain… she’s ready… and… still afloat. Your order sir?”
Captain Sail sighed as he looked down in disappointment. Trying to remember why he called the first attack, Captain Sail replied without looking up, “… Again…”
Barley able to hear him, Pinpoint nodded as he looked to Powder Keg and relayed, “Fire…”
Powder Keg nodded as he looked over the ship, “FIRE!”
Hearing it once more from the gunner at the stairs, Captain Sail took one last look at Siren as she smiled after hearing her gunner’s call as he read her lips, “Listen for my song.”

As he saw this, it seemed as if time had slowed down for the captain as the cannons fired off in a slightly out of sync volley as the cannon balls hit the burning Iron Wing while most if not all the explosive shells blew up just as they made contact with the fires on the deck of the opposite vessel. With the smoke from the cannons concealing her, Captain Sail lost sight of Siren as the exploding shells found their way into the Iron Wing’s magazine as the entire vessel shattered in a massive explosion that caused all three of its masts to fall over on themselves with nothing on the ships deck visible through all the chaos on board. As soon as the explosion took place, Captain Sail watched in disbelief as he stepped closer to the railing as a deafening silence fell over the Bloody Tide as everypony aboard watched in awe as the remains of the Iron Wing slowly started to sink as the smoke from the burning ship concealed its deck making it impossible to see anything or anypony aboard.

With the entire crew watching, The Iron Wing slowly descended into the sea as Captain Sail tried all he could to see the ships helm as the upper deck slowly submerged into the water leaving only the ship’s masts behind. As the last remnants of the Iron Wing started sinking behind the vessel, Pinpoint pulled out a spyglass and schemed the water’s surface. After seeing all he needed to, he lowered the spyglass and spoke, “No bod… I mean… nothin’ in the water Captain.”
Ignoring his quartermaster, Captain Sail watched in worry as the sail’s rigging which still connected the Iron Wing’s hull to its sails, slowly pulled the ship’s masts down as the last thing spotted on the Iron Wing before it went down, was the Jolly Roger, of the Iron Hoof Pirates. As the Iron Wing vanished into the waves, Captain Sail still watched for a few seconds longer, till Pinpoint spoke again, “Still no movement in the water captain… She… She must have gone down with her ship.”

Slowly Captain Sail reached up and removed his hat as he placed it against his chest as he tried to speak without showing any sadness, “Aye… s-she went down with her cannons loaded and her ship ready for battle… as any captain should. I… would like to go the same way someday.”
Seeing their captain paying his respects, Pinpoint, Powder Keg, the rest of the Crimson Pirates and even the Iron Pirates, slowly removed their hats and bandannas, as everypony aboard the Bloody Tide all joined in, in saluting not only the Iron Wing… but also its Captain. Captain Siren Hoof, the Ninth Iron Hoof of the Leviathan Sea… and its last.

Ch16 Regrets

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The Tavern was full of both Crimson and Iron Pirates, but there was no merrymaking. Each pirate had a mug of rum, but there were no smiles on any faces. Even the minstrel was present with his instrument, but the violin sat untouched in the middle of the table as the room remained quiet. At that moment, Pinpoint entered the tavern as he looked at the gloomy setting and spoke, “What’s all this?... Why the long faces gents? We just won a battle for the ages. We should be celebratin’ to a job well done.”
Powder Keg was sitting at a table next to the door as he replied, “He’s right… we just took down an enemy worth bragin’ ‘bout, and here we are lookin’ as if a bully just stepped on our Ice cream cone. We should be celibratin’.”
Pinpoint nodded, “That’s right… Tone Deaf are ya in here?”

The minstrel raised his mug as he replied with an unenthusiastic tone, “Aye sir, over here.”
Pinpoint replied, “Play us a jig! Something that will wake us up from this slump we found ourselves in.”
Tone Deaf replied, “With all due respect sir… it seems as if the music won’t flow. I can play… but with what I and the rest of the room feelin’, the song wouldn’t be a happy one.”
Pinpoint was annoyed as he looked across the room, “Ya can’t tell me that the loss of Miss Hoof was that bad? Sure she was a great sailor and a heck of a pirate… but we’ve lost plenty a sailors before.”
The room didn’t respond, instead everypony held their silence as Powder Keg replied, “I s’pose the others hasn’t had this great an impact on our crew as Miss Hoof did. At least… not like it has the Captain.”

Hearing the comment, Tone Deaf spoke up, “S’pose… the Captain were to join us?... that would probably lighten the mood up a bit. Maybe even pull us out of this slump altogether.”
A number of the sailors in the room nodded their heads in agreement as Pinpoint sighed, “I understand what ya mean… but the captain is dealin’ with this in his own way. So… I think its best we leave him to it and mind our own till he’s done.”
The crew nodded as another sailor replied, “We are just worried is all… I know what’s it’s like to lose a loved one… but what the captain and the lass shared… we just hope his method of dealin’ is healthy for him.”

Pinpoint replied with an annoyed tone, “Mark me lads! Captain’s business is and will stay captain’s business… I ain’t questioned the captain in the twenty year I’ve sailed under him and I don’t plan on startin’ now. But… I hear your concern, and I would be neglectin’ my duties if I were to ignore the worries of the crew. So… I s’pose I will go talk with him. I'll do what I can, but if captain chooses to stay on the ship, then don’t say I didn’t worn ya.”
The crew smiled at their quartermaster as the same sailor replied, “Aye, aye sir. That’s all we ask. Ain’t that right lads?”
Although it wasn’t as enthusiastic as it usually was, the rest of the Crimson Pirates raised their mugs as they replied, “Aye.”
Seeing this, lifted Pinpoint’s spirits slightly as he could only smile before leaving the tavern and trotting towards the docks.

Down at the Home Harbor, the Bloody Tide sat just as silent as the tavern as only a few sailors worked on the decks while Captain Sail stood silently in his quarters looking out the large window that looked out into the sea behind the Bloody Tide. Though his face remained tear free, his expression still showed a sadness unlike any that his crew had ever seen on him before as the depressed captain looked at the distant horizon. Slowly the captain picked up the bottle of rum that sat next to him as he drank the last bit in it and sighed, “Pity… wasn’t enough to get me tanked.”
As Captain Sail looked at the empty bottle, he could only remember when he and Siren finished the bottle off in the brig as he started smiling at the memory of Siren admitting to everything she hid. Then as he realized his thoughts were back on her, his smile faded as he reached up and touched the stitched wound on his left shoulder as he mumbled, “What are ya doin’ Sail… cant ya see she’s go-”
Before he could finish talking to himself, a knock came at his door as it spoke, “Captain… you have a visitor from ashore.”

Captain Sail turned to the door and replied, “I said I didn’t want to be disturbed.”
The voice replied, “Aye, I know capt’n… but she’s pretty adamant about seein’ ya. She won’t take no for an answer.”
Knowing it could be only one of two hippogriffs, Captain Sail sighed as he turned and trotted to his desk, “Fine… give me a moment…”
As the captain approached his desk, he sat the empty bottle on the desk and looked at Siren’s dagger that also sat on the desk. Looking at the forgotten blade that was discovered on the upper deck after the Iron Wing was sunk, Captain Sail smiled slightly as he opened the drawer to the desk and gently placed the weapon inside before closing the desk and replying, “Show her in!”
As soon as the door opened, two hippogriff royal guards entered the room as they both stepped to both sides of the doorway with expressions on their faces that showed that this visit wasn’t a friendly one. Seeing the familiar expressions, Captain Sail sat down right in front of his desk as he replied to their expressions without intimidation, “Evenin’ gents…”

The gaurds held their silence as Queen Novo entered the cabin with an expression that showed the same emotionless hostility as Captain Sail smiled and greeted her as he would if the visit seemed to be with a better purpose, “Majesty… its good to see ya, so what do I own this special visit from the most regal of Home’s residents.”
Queen Novo didn’t reply, instead she started towards him as he looked around and started making small talk, “I hope you’ll forgive the shape of my quarters lass, I don’t have the luxury of entertainin’ royalty. In fact you’re the first I'd had aboard, not countin’ the countess of Stalliongrad, but that’s a rather inappropriate sto-”
Before he could finish, Queen Novo had completely trotted across the room as she approached Captain Sail, raised her talon up, and slapped him across his face as hard as she could as the unexpected assault threw is head to the side and silenced his words. Looking in the direction his head was tossed, Captain Sail’s expression became depressed as he spoke, “So… I’m guessin’ ya heard then?... Bout the lass…”
Queen Novo spoke in anger, “Tell me it’s not true… Tell me she fought till the bitter end against Iron Hoof… Tell me she died in battle, she died from her wounds, or is playing a joke and is hiding on this ship.” Tears built up in her eyes, “Tell me anything! But what your first mate told us…”

Captain Sail continued looking in the direction his face was thrown in as he sighed, “I may be a bloodthirsty pirate, a criminal of many kingdoms, a thief… I even tend to twist words to my own likings, but… I ain’t a liar.” He turned his head to Novo and looked her in the eye, “And all of those choices… are all lies.”
Queen Novo took a step back as she replied in anger, “So… it’s true then… you killed her… You killed Siren!”
Captain Sail turned and trotted to the side of his desk as he reflexively reached for the empty bottle of rum, however the moment he lifted it, was the moment he remembered it was empty, so he sat the bottle back down as he turned and looked through the glass bottle and replied, “Aye… I did.”
Queen Novo replied, “How?... how could you do such a thing? We trusted you, we helped you to learn the truth about Iron Hoof and this is how you repay us?”
Captain Sail sighed as he looked back at Queen Novo, “I did what she wanted… what she asked.”
Queen Novo shook her head, “I refuse to believe that. Siren was the strongest pony I know, she would never give up on life so easily.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… I thought so too.”

Queen Novo replied, “So you agree then… the only explanation, is that you murdered her.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Call it what ya want lass… but I only did as she asked. Her wound was too deep and there was no way of saving her. So, by her request, I helped her board her ship, and casted her off like any captain would want.”
“Meaning you sank her with her ship…”
Captain Sail turned around and approached the aft window again as he replied, “Aye… I sank her. Just as she wanted.”
Queen Novo shook her head, in disbelief, “And you stand there and just admit it so calmly? Do you have even the slightest bit of a heart left? She loved you! I could see it the day you arrived, she had feelings for you, she confessed them to you and you just… killed her off like some expendable asset?”
Holding back his patients, Captain Sail replied, “And what else would I had done? Her wound was too deep and she would have died even if we tried to help her. This was the only way to send her off with honor.”

Queen Novo replied in anger, “By murdering her in cold blood?... I can’t believe that… I won’t believe that. She loved you Captain Sail… She loved you and from what I was told, she admitted that love just moment before you heartlessly killed her. So how does that make her feel? To know that the stallion you love is the one to end your life. To watch as the one you care about most turns around and stab you, not in the back, but right in the chest for you and the whole world to see! How does it feel to be betrayed by the one you care about the most? To die by the hoof of the one you love!”
Finally, Captain Sail couldn’t hold back anymore as a part of him snapped as he replied with an evil tone, “How does it feel?... funny… let’s try this then for ya?...” He slowly turned around and started trotting closer, “How does it feel… majesty, to be the one to do the stabbing?... how does it feel to be the stallion who admits his feelings before being ordered to kill the mare ya care about?...” Seeing the evil in his eyes, Queen Novo stepped back in fear as he continued, “How does it feel to have no choice but to kill the mare you love!?! Hmm?… answer me that…” He stopped right next to his desk as he paused waiting for her to reply, however after a moment of silence, he yelled, “I SAID HOW DOES IT FEEL!?!”

By the time he yelled those words, Captain Sail raised his hoof and slammed it down on top of the empty bottle of rum as the glass bottle shattered sending glass scattering across the desk and the room while cutting deep into his hoof. Scared of his actions, Queen Novo took an extra step back as the two guards quickly rushed towards their queen as they both stepped between Captain Sail and Queen Novo as they raised their spears towards the dangerous pirate. Unconcerned with the guards’ threatening stance and actions, Captain Sail continued with a murderous look in his eye, “How does it feel your majesty?… To fall in love, and find what’s missing in your life… just moments before removing it by not your choice… but hers?… You tell me that… and if ya can… then you have a greater wisdom then I. Though… I highly doubt it.”
Feeling slightly safer, Queen Novo removed the worried expression on her face as Captain Sail turned away and trotted back to the window leaving a bloody trail from the hoof that shattered the bottle mere moments ago. With his back now turned to them, the guards held their defensive stance as the queen signaled them to stand down. When the guards lowered their weapons, Queen Novo spoke, “If you wasn’t wanted in my kingdom before… you most certainly are now. If I see your ship on the horizon, your flag over our harbor, or you traipsing through the streets without a care… I'll have you locked up for the remainder of your days.”

Slightly calmer, but still enraged, Captain Sail nodded, “Good to know, but as for now… take your armored land lubbers, and get your feathery plots off my ship.”
Knowing that from now on, there would only be hostility between them, Queen Novo turned to the cabin doors and exited the captain’s quarters as the guards followed closely leaving the enraged captain standing silent by his window. Out on the main deck, Queen Novo sighed in relief as she was met by Priestess Aqua, “Was that truly nessisary?”
Queen Novo replied, “I wanted him to know what he had done… and how many he hurt.”
Aqua replied, “He only did it because Siren told him to.”
Queen Novo gave her an angry look, “Don’t tell me that you buy into that story too? You know as well as I that Siren wouldn’t give up so easily. Besides, he’s a pirate… lying is in his nature.”
Aqua replied, “He may be a pirate, but so was she… and if Siren was truly in love, then her decision not only gave her peace to die a true captain, but it was her way of paying back Captain Sail for helping Home and every hippogriff here.”

Queen Novo didn’t accept the logic as she replied, “Then why did he send his quartermaster to deliver both the pearl and that story? The fact that he didn’t tell us himself is proof enough of his guilt.”
Aqua shook her head, “No… its proof of his feelings for her. He could have taken the pearl and left but he didn’t. Instead he fulfilled her last request by not only delivering the pearl, but by also laying her to rest on her terms.”
Queen Novo sighed in hopelessness, “If you want to believe the words of a pirate, then be my guest.”
Aqua could only asked, “Why are you being like this Novo? Why the sudden change?”
Queen Novo sighed as she started turning to leave, “Siren used to tell me to grow up all the time… so… I think it’s time I did. For my foal’s sake and my kingdoms. And to you… it your majesty.”
As Queen Novo started trotting towards the dock, Priestess Aqua spoke up, “You’re the Guardian now…” Novo paused as Aqua continued, “Siren said that if anything happened to her, that you would take her place as guardian, and guard the pearl… You know as well as I that her words are final, and you cannot turn this responsibility down. Queen or not.”
Feeling slightly annoyed, Queen Novo looked at one of her guards as she spoke, “Place the pearl in my room and ready my ship for departure. Tomorrow morning we will take it back with us. After all…” She looked at Priestess Aqua out the corner of her eye as she continued, “There is no safer place, then the vault at Mount Aris.”

With that Queen Novo turned back to the dock as she spoke while trotting away, “There… happy? If I must protect what Siren fought for, then I'll protect it on my own terms.”
As Queen Novo trotted over the gang plank Aqua sighed, “You call this growing up?... Your more foalish then ever.”
Down the dock, Pinpoint was trotting towards the Bloody Tide, however as he passed Queen Novo, the angry queen gave him an unwanted look as she trotted by without an expression. After the queen was completely past him, Pinpoint turned in confusion to the disliked look as he watched her leave with a somewhat insulted feeling from the encounter. As he watched the angry queen trot by, Priestess Aqua approached him as she spoke, “Please do not take offence to her majesty Mr. Point. She is merely confronting the loss in her own way. Siren and the Queen were quite close if you remember right.”

Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Aye… I s’pose your right.”
Priestess Aqua trotted by as she spoke, “Nevertheless, we are still grateful for the Captain’s help, and to you for delivering the pearl and the news to us this morning. Though the queen doesn’t believe in it entirely, I know that a stallion like you wouldn’t lie about such things. After all, I can tell that you are a pony of honor, loyalty and respect.”
Feeling flattered Pinpoint smiled as he nodded, “I appreciate the complement ma’am. The Crimson Pirates and our captain wish that we could have saved Siren. She was a great sailor and a fine example of what a pirate and a captain should be.”
Aqua nodded with an inviting look, “Yes… she will truly be missed. Nevertheless… you have our thanks… and… if you ever want to come to the temple to… pray… you will always be welcome. After all, I'll be there to welcome you… personally.”
Seeing the suggestive smile on her face, Pinpoint watched as Priestess Aqua winked at him before continuing down the dock and into the town. As he watched her leave Pinpoint thought to himself, “Hmm… maybe I should- no… let’s not repeat the incident in the Ibex Empire.”

With that decision out of the way, Pinpoint continued towards the Bloody Tide as he crossed the gang plank and approached Captain Sail’s cabin door. As he reached the door he knocked, “Captain? It’s me… I need to speak with ya… can I come in?”
A moment of silence passed before he heard a reply, “Aye… come in…”
With that, Pinpoint entered the cabin as he saw Captain Sail still sitting at the aft window as he looked out into the sea. Seeing both the shattered bottle and Captain Sail’s bleeding hoof, Pinpoint decided to break the obvious tension as he spoke, “Captain you alright?... looks like the stiches on your shoulder reopened. It’s bleeding.”
Concerned, Captain Sail reached up and touched his stitching with his right hoof, however before he could confirm the suspected bleeding, he realized that the hoof he used to check the wound was already bleeding so as he touched the stitching, he only smeared the blood from his hoof onto his shoulder as he made it impossible to tell whether his shoulder was actually bleeding or not. When he noticed this, Captain Sail realized what his quartermaster was trying to bring his attention too as he looked at his bleeding hoof and spoke, “I… S’pose I over reacted a bit… didn’t I?”

Pinpoint sighed as he replied, “Aye… I’m sure it was just a bit though. I wasn’t here to see, but the blood is a good indicator.”
Continuing to ignore the pain and blood on his hoof, Captain Sail looked back out the window as he spoke, “Pin… did… did I make the right choice?”
Confused that he was called by his first name, Pinpoint asked, “What?”
Captain Sail turned his head till he could see Pinpoint out the corner of his eye as he repeated, “Did I make the right choice? Did I truly follow my only option when I chose to sink the Iron Wing?... was her request the only thing I could do? Was it my only honorable action to take?”
Pinpoint replied, “Crimson… You fulfilled her last request and sent her down like a true captain. Everypony in the crew would agree that not only was it our only option… that it was the most honorable action to take. And if any of them disagree… point them in my direction… I'll fodder them myself, with or without your order.”

Hearing the reassuring words made Captain Sail feel better as he turned back to the window and replied, “I don’t know how ya do it Pin… I just don’t know how ya can parade through life with nearly a care nor regret.”
Pinpoint gave him a confused look, “Nearly? Captain I’ve been sailing with you with regrets the entire time.”
Captain Sail was curious, “Really?... could have fooled me… so… what was this regret that you had?”
Pinpoint sighed, “You… captain.”
Captain Sail didn’t turn to him as he replied with a disappointed tone, “Ouch… way to hit below the waterline.”
Pinpoint shook his head, “Not like that captain… what I meant was… I regret everything that that drove you to become what you are. I survived Iron Hoof’s attack on the Annabelle, I passed the tragic news onto you and your mother. That news… I believe is what destroyed your life. It ended your wedding with Miss Mist, it drove you to piracy, and it sent you on a journey of murderous revenge that made you into what you are today. Then… it brought Miss Siren onto our ship… it drove you to fall for her, only to lose her in the end. If anything… this… all of this… is my fault.”

Captain Sail shook his head, “I appreciate the sentiments lad… I really do, but… I never had any intention on staying in Horseshoe Bay at all. Though we were betrothed, Miss Mist and I were never in love… or, at least I wasn’t. That wedding, that manor… that life wasn’t my calling at all. The sea was… the sea and all it had to offer, the tide, the spray… and even... Siren.” Trying to keep his mind on topic, he cleared his throat, “All you did was give me the reason to cast off. If anythin’ I should thank you.”
Pinpoint was a little surprised, “So… you intended on leavin’ Miss Mist at alter all along?”
Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders, “Sorta, I just couldn’t think of a way to tell her… without her killin’ me in the process.”
Pinpoint chuckled, “I didn’t figure you for the heart breakin’ type back then. Now sure, but not back then.”
Captain Sail nodded as his expression became sad, “Then… now… it doesn’t seem like much has changed in the past two decades.”

Captain Sail trotted back to his desk as he opened the drawer, and pulled out the dagger inside. As the captain studied the blade, Pinpoint felt concerned, “You really did love the lass… didn’t ya?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… at first… she was as her name suggested… A Siren. A demon mare set to lure any naive sailor to his watery grave. And to make it worse, I was right. A mare like that plays by only one tactic. To know everypony’s weakness, and if needed, use it against ‘em. For most, its charm. Any hot blooded sailor will turn to jelly if charmed by a beauty. Which is why Siren was so dangerous. But as for me, she found that my only weakness was my hatred for her father. Which is why she kept so many secrets.”
He placed the dagger on top of the desk as he trotted back to the window and continued, “I s’pose that’s what attracted me the most. Was the sheer mystery about her.”
Pinpoint asked, “Then what about after she told you who she was?”
Captain Sail replied, “It was her since of respect for both the sailor, and the pirate ways. Honoring the words of her father, the actions of mine. Even honerin’ those the past Iron Hooves have sunk. It’s an inspirin’ thing to see in this day and age. S’pose… it’s what captivated me the most. Made me fall for her even more then her charms could. Definably made me stay to help her fight the fight. Even if I didn’t tell her that.”

Pinpoint nodded as he replied with an almost careless tone, “Yea… when you find the right one. A mare will do that to ya. She’ll make ya do even the most fool hearty things to look good in her eyes.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye she will…”
Pinpoint trotted to a shelf at the side of the room as he grabbed a rag and replied, “So… what’s next for us Captain?”
Captain Sal turned his head to look at his quartermaster, as he took the rag and started wiping the blood from both his hoof and shoulder, “Next?”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… with the Iron Wing sunk, and both the fake and real Iron Hoof gone… where will we go from here?”

Although he didn’t like how nonchalantly Pinpoint was talking about Siren’s death, he knew he was just trying to get passed it, as Captain Sail thought to himself for a second. After a few moments passed, Captain Sail looked back out the window and asked, “How many hippogriff sailors did we recruit?”
Pinpoint replied, “Hippogriffs?... I'd say… ‘bout ten or so. Although after returning with Iron Hoof’s pirates we may gain more after this.”
Captain Sail then asked, “Can we manage without ‘em?”
Pinpoint thought to himself, “The one’s we recruited, or the Iron Hoof sailors?”
“Both.”
Pinpoint replied, “We arrived fairly without them. Though we lost a few sailors in the fightlin’ I think we can manage all the same.”

Captain Sail replied with a tone as if he were giving orders, “Good, then I want them all fired. They may board to gather their personal belongings, but after that I want them off my ship.”
Pinpoint was curious, “Aye… but… why is that captain?”
Captain Sail replied, “I have a plan for the Bloody Tide, but it don’t involve any sailors from the Leviathan Seas, so we will leave ‘em behind.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Understood captain… but what are those plans?”
Captain Sail replied, “I'll tell ya once we arrive at the Cove.”
“The Cove?... So it’s Pirate Cove we’re headed?”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Aye… we will set sail first thing in the mor-… actually… we’ll make it at about lunchtime… I want to watch that royal leave first… just to spite her a bit.”

Although he didn’t know the story, Pinpoint could only roll his eyes as he replied, “Aye… still makin’ foes amongst friends, are we?”
Captain Sail smiled, “In a manner…”
Pinpoint sighed, “Sound good then Captain, I'll let the crew know… but… there is one thing.”
Captain Sail turned to look back, “Hm?”
Pinpoint replied, “The crew are a little worried for their captain’s mental state. Seems your absence is makin’ them feel a little low.”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Aye… I understand. Let them know I'll be there soon. I just need to clean myself up a little.”
Pinpoint looked at the glass scattered across the desk and floor as he replied, “Don’t take too long captain. There isn’t enough rum to keep them occupied all night. Oh, and if ya don’t see me there… then I'll see ya in the mornin’ I have another matter to take into account.”
Captain Sail nodded, “As long as you are back before we cast off, you’re free to do as you please.”

With that, Captain Sail cleaned and bandaged himself up before setting out for the tavern where the Crimson and Iron Pirates drank both the night and blues away. The next day, Captain Sail stood on the docks and watched a few hippogriff sailors step off the Tide with their belongings as he spoke, “Nothin’ personal lads, I just think that with Home still in need of repair that you should stay and help out. After all, a sailor works best when he has no need to worry about where he comes from.”
The sailor nodded, “I don’t spite ya none capt’n, just know that if we cross paths again, I will try to sign on again. A pirate as good as you is one worth sailin’ under.”
Captain Sail nodded to the compliment, but before he could reply, another sailor called, “Captain, royal Ship departin’!”
Hearing this, Captain sail trotted to the edge of the dock and looked out at Queen Novo’s departing ship as he sighed, “Some would disagree…”

Out on Queen Novo’s ship, the royal stood on the top deck as she looked over her working crew. When she looked back towards Home from her ship Queen Novo saw Captain Sail standing on the docks as she mumbled in irritation, “That’s the last time I trust pirates, or outsiders for that matter.”
Thinking she was talking to him, the helmscolt on her ship asked, “Majesty?”
The pregnant mare looked back, “Nothing, Open all sails and head towards Mount Aris.” She placed her hoof on a chest that sat next to her, “I have the responsibility to protect this pearl with my life… just as Siren gave her life to do the same.”

Back on the dock Captain Sail watched as the ship vanished as Pinpoint approached, “ Sorry im late Captain… are you ready to go?”
Captain Sail turned back and nodded, “Aye… As ready as I’ll ever be.”
As the two officers started trotting across the gangplank onto the Bloody Tide, Pinpoint asked, “Ya think you’ll ever return here someday?”
Captain Sail paused as he looked towards the town and could see the road leading to the Iron Hoof mausoleum as he nodded, “I should say so, after all, my father is buried here… sorta.”
Captain Sail continued onto the Bloody Tide as Pinpoint gave him a confused stare, “What?...”
Captain Sail smiled, “Long story lad, I'll explain later. Anyways, what kept ya? Its not like you to be late.”
Pinpoint looked away as he replied, “Long story lad, I’ll Explain later.”

Captain Sail smiled at the answer as he trotted to the upper deck of the tide and called, “ALL ASHORE THAT’S GOIN’ ASHORE!”
As Captain Sail looked towards the gangplank, he noticed Priestess Aqua and a number of hippogriff sailors as he trotted to the railing of the ship. As soon as he was within ear shot, Priestess Aqua called, “Captain Sail! Know that you are now and forever a welcome guest to the Leviathan Sea and the Isle of Home! If fate should ever find you in peril, know that the grace of the Leviathan and comfort of this isle will always be at your disposal!”
Captain Sail smiled as he called in response, “I thank ya for your kind words lass… but this isle and its hippogriffs aren’t disposable. To me… they are as valuable as all the gold in the sea. If ya ever find yourself on Pirate Cove… tell them I know ya and they will treat ya fairly. But if ya ever find yourself on Horseshoe Bay… You don’t know me, and I don’t know you.”
Priestess Aqua smiled at his joke as she replied, “Go with the leviathan’s protection, despite the queen’s resentment, you are a hero to Home… Siren would be proud.”
Captain Sail remembered something as he reached into his vest and pulled out Siren’s dagger, “I almost forgot, this is the lasses, I figure she wanted you to have it.”

Priestess Aqua shook her head, “No captain, that dagger belongs to a pirate, not a priestess. If anypony should take it, it’s you. Call it, payment for your help.”
Captain Sail put away the dagger as he smiled, “Then I'll treasure it. Thank you.”
Priestess Aqua smiled as she replied, “You’re very welcome. And Pin!... I'll always welcome you back.”
The priestess looked at Pinpoint and winked before turning away as Captain Sail gave Pinpoint a confused look. Seeing the action Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail and smiled, “What… the call of the Siren beckoned me.”
Captain Sail sighed, “Need I remind you of the Ibex incident.”
Pinpoint smiled, “Last time was a priest’s daughter… not a priestess. Sides, I’m old and have little to lose now.”
Captain Sail could only shake his head as he replied, “Well I can’t argue with your point. Either way, time we make way.” He looked over the ship, “Raise the gang plank, and cast off! Our next stop is Pirate Cove!”
The crew did as they were told as they continued to raise the anchor as the Bloody Tide was set adrift.

With the Bloody Tide now free to the sea, Captain Sail looked at Pinpoint as he spoke, “Mr. Point… Set us on course. I want us to get there as soon as possible.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain.”
Pinpoint then looked over the Tide as he called the order, “Let loose all sails! Put us on the wind and give us some speed!” he looked at the helms colt, “Put us on our heading, you know our destination, so I shouldn’t have to tell you which way.”
The helms colt nodded as he replied, “Aye Sir, heading west.”
With that, the Bloody Tide started on its course towards Pirate Cove. As the ship started out, Captain Sail looked over the aft railing as he saw both Home and the leviathan’s sanctuary fade onto the horizon. As he looked at the now distant islands, he started to see a steady stream of water following as he spoke, “Here to see us off deity?”

Confused, Pinpoint looked behind the ship as a voice replied, “I am… I decided that in honor of your help I wanted to wish you on a safe journey.”
Hearing the voice, most of the crew started looking at the large following stream as Captain Sail replied, “Funny, I'd suspect you and the queen shared the same opinion of me.”
The Leviathan replied, “I have lived for many millennia… and in that time I have seen and understood the pride and dedication in the hearts of all sailors and pirates alike. So despite the fact that it pains me to see my Guardian die… I know that your actions, or… should I say sacrifice, was both a noble and respectable one. And in her honor, I can only thank you for everything. For exposing the false Iron Hoof, for assisting in my subject’s protection, and… for seeing my Guardian off with honor. I have always feared that the last of the titans would one day fall to the pony race. But if I am to fall to a mortal someday, I hope he will be as noble as you.”

Captain Sail smiled as he replied with a sarcastic tone, “I doubt that… any pirate as noble as I wouldn’t dare challenge the might of a titan.”
Though the pirate couldn’t see it, the leviathan smiled, “True… though it wouldn’t be the first time one has.”
Captain Sail was confused, “What was that?”
The leviathan replied, “That’s not important… what is important, is that no matter where your travels take you. You will always be a friend to the Leviathan seas, and its ruler.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Watch over your subjects beastie… I ain’t gonna be here to bail them out again.”
The leviathan dove deeper and vanished into the sea as Captain Sail watched the stream of water dissipate as he placed his hoof against Siren’s hidden dagger under his vest as he mumbled, “Honored by a titan… it wasn’t worth it.”

Ch17 Pirates and Their Secrets

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The three pirate captains sat at the bar as Captain Celaeno looked into her mug and sighed, “So… she’s gone then. The real Iron Hoof.”
Captain Sail sat in the middle of the three as he took a drink before replying, “Aye… she is, went down with her ship, as any captain should.”
Captain Hawk who was sitting on Captain Sail’s right replied with the same tone, “A lass who could tame the Crimson Ghost Hunter, Must have been quite the beauty… Shame I didn’t get to meet her.”
Captain Celaeno gave him an annoyed look as he shrugged his shoulders, “Not that I'd try anythin’, you know I’m loyal to your mother, but she should remember, I’m married, not buried.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, she was a fine lass, and a great captain. Shame it had to end the way it did.”
Captain Celaeno nodded as she raised her mug, “Aye, Iron hoof or not, she was a pirate for the ages, and she will be missed. Let’s not overlook her parting gift. I don’t recall that cut on your shoulder.”
Captain Sail placed his hoof on the cut left from Powder Kegs bayonet then he raised his mug as he replied, “Aye she did! One way or another she found a way to leave her mark on us all.”
Captain Hawk raised his mug as he spoke, “To Iron Hoof! A captain of the ages, and a true pirate.”

As the three captains drank to the toast, Captain Hawk finished off his rum and spoke, “One thing bugs me ‘bout that story though Sail… If Iron Hoof kept refuge in the Leviathan Sea for all those centuries… then where did he make port? Even the most dedicated sailors must make port every once and a while.”
Smiling at the secret he was keeping, Captain Sail replied, “Who knows… Since we were in a titan’s territory, we didn’t waste any time in finding the false Iron Hoof, Killing him and getting out of those waters.”
Knowing he was hiding something, Captain Celaeno decided to let him keep his secret as she went back to the previous subject, “Hard to think that we were sitting at this very bar with Iron Hoof. And I accused her of being a rookie pirate. Kinda makes me feel foolish.”

Captain Sail nodded as he smiled, “She made a fool of us all, but then again that was her best quality was it not?”
Celaeno nodded as Captain Hawk spoke next, “Nah… foolish is changing your bet on the pool three days before the Crimson Ghost hunter catches his ghost… I lost a pretty gold coin on you Sail.”
The other two captains chuckled as Captain Sail replied, “I keep tellin’ ya Hawk. Never underestimate me, and yet every time we see each other ya do. That’s why you never win our little scraps when we have ‘em.”
Captain Celaeno asked before taking a drink of her rum, “So, now that the ghost is gone, what will the ghost hunter do next?”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Well… since I no longer have a crew, my next step will be to turn myself in.”
Surprised by his answer, Captain Celaeno started coughing while drinking her rum as she gasped for air before replaying in surprise, “What?... What do you mean, don’t have a crew? And turn yourself in?… are you serious?”
Captain Sail only smiled in response as Captain Celaeno looked at Pinpoint who sat on her other side as she asked, “Is he serious?”

With a depressed look on his face, Pinpoint looked into his drink as he repleid, “Aye… he fired us all this mornin’.”
Captain Celaeno looked back at Captain Sail as Captain Hawk spoke, “Are ya daft Sail? Ya know that if ya turn yourself in, you’ll hang. Your just as wanted as the lot of us, why would you even risk turnin’ yourself over to… to… who ya turnin’ yourself over to?”
Captain Sail took a drink before replying, “The Equestrian Royal guard.”
Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail in surprise, “What?... you failed to mention that part.”
Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders, “It didn’t seem important.”
Captain Celaeno spoke up, “You do that? And they will kill you. Need I remind you, your most wanted in Equestria then any kingdom in the world?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Actually, I’m probably most wanted in the Hippogriff Kingdom, but since I'd rather not spend my days in a prison, I figured Equestria will be a much faster punishment.”
Captain Hawk was confused, “Punishment? For that Siren lass? Are ya really that torn up to just let the royal guard’s hang ya?”

Pinpoint spoke up, “Royal guards?... no… that’s if he’s lucky. The one’s he should really worry about is the Cutters.” He looked at his ex-captain, “You go back there, and the Reaper will have your head on a pike, before you even make port.”
Captain Sail nodded confidently, “Aye… although… she may still have a soft spot for me.”
The two parrots and the navigator gave him a dull look as Captain Celaeno replied, “Uh… showin’ a bit of your ego there captain?”
Pinpoint sighed, “Even in the grimiest of expectations, Captain Sail still find ways to seem as if he has a plan figured.”
Captain Sail smiled, “A good captain should always have a plan, even if he has no crew.”

Wanting answers, Pinpoint replied, “Granted… but still why go back there of all places?”
Captain Sail finished his drink as he replied, “Something the lass said still haunts me… She said that she will let me sink her to fulfill the Tides purpose. To sink the Iron Wing with Iron Hoof aboard. Both The Tide and I were sailing to see Iron Hoof dead. And now… it’s served its purpose… as have I. What reason should we sail with no goal in mind.”
Captain Hawk replied in confusion, “Reason?... we’re pirates lad, almost everythin’ we do is without reason.”
Captain Sail was givin’ a new mug of rum as he replied, “aye… but the day the Bloody Tide was commandeered was only to find Iron Hoof, now without my ghost to hunt… I ain’t got a reason to be huntin’.”
Pinpoint replied with an annoyed tone, “So… your just gonna offer to dance the hempen jig for Princess Celestia then?”
Captain Sail nodded, “I said I would make things right after Iron Hoof is dead… so… I’m a stallion of my word.

Captain Hawk thought to himself as he looked at his daughter who only nodded at him before looking back at Captain Sail and replying, “I don’t know what all this Reaper business is about, but… far be it for me to choose your course captain. Anyways, what say if this is your last night of merrymaking here on Pirate Cove, then let’s make it a night to remember. Barkeep, quit serving us the slop from the front of the storehouse and bring us some real grog!”
The bartender gave her an angry look, “I don’t know what you’re talkin’ ‘bout lass, I bring ya what I have.”
Captain Hawk replied, “Now stop being stingy and do as the lass askes! Don’t think I don’t know ‘bout the hidden stuff in the back that ya pull out every time I’m annoyin’ your customers. You know, the strong stuff that knocks me on my beak.”
Annoyed with his comment, the bartender gave him a dull look as the rest of the room roared in agreement to the parrot’s demand. Sighing in irritation, the bartender turned around as he waved his hood in dismissal, “Fine fine, but I’m doublin’ the charge. That brand o’ rum ain’t cheap ya know.”

Captain Celaeno pulled both Pinpoint and Captain Sail in so they were shoulder to shoulder as she replied, “Fine, then I’m buyin’! It ain’t right to see off a grand crew as this without a proper celebration!”
Smiling at the offer, Captain Sail forgot about his troubles as he held up his mug and replied, “Here here!”
With that the large group of pirates amped up the room as they made what was already a rowdy pub of sailors into an even more raucous gathering of pirate crews that would last long into the night. However, hours later as the pirates started to tire, the mistral’s songs started to get slower until Captain Celaeno decided to get up and sing a song herself. As she approached the mistral, she started singing the best song she knew for any female to sing, All o’ wait, for all o’ ways. At first, Captain Sail paid no mind to it since he was already engaged in a conversation with a few sailors form the Avian Pirates, but as soon as he heard clearly what was being sung, he paused. Slowly, Captain Sail looked at Captain Celaeno up on the stage singing as for a split second, her voice seemed to change from her usual voice, to Siren’s.

As the captain started imagining Siren on stage singin’ in place of Celaeno Pinpoint noticed his expression as he asked, “Um… Crimson… you okay sir?”
Captain Sail shook his head to snap himself out of it as he replied, “I’m fine… just enjoyin’ the tune is all.”
As that was said, Captain Celaeno was finishing up the last line as she smiled at the applauding audience and stepped down from the stage. As soon as she was down, she approached Captain Sail as he spoke, “Well sung Captain, truly a moving tune.”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “isn’t it always?”
At that moment Captain Sail nodded as he finished off his mug and replied, “Well… I have a rather… long day for tomorrow, so… I guess I'll go hit the tar. Captain, it was good to call you friend.”
Captain Celaeno smiled, “as is always to you Sail.”

He turned to Pinpoint and held out his hoof, “Mr. Point… or Pin, I aim to set sail tomorrow with a replacement crew so… I guess this is it. It was good havin’ you aboard for the ride Mr. Point. And, though it didn’t go as we planned, I'd think that my father would be happy you stuck with me through all this.”
Pinpoint shook his hoof as he replied, “As he would you… Captain.”
Captain Sail looked over the room as he called, “You lot!... are the biggest waste of inconsiderate, worthless, conniving, pieces of garbage to ever step onto my or anypony’s ship!!!... And givin’ the chance, I can’t think of a finer group of sailors to ever share an adventure of freedom filled sailing. I hope you drink yourselves into a coma tonight, cuz you all earned it… AIN’T THAT RIGHT LADS!?!”
With that, the entire room lit up as they all replied, this time knowing what they were replying to, “AYE!!!”

With a smile on his face, Captain Sail left the pub as he made his way down the road back to where the Bloody Tide was docked. After Captain Sail was gone, Captain Celaeno walked up to her father as she spoke, “Well, here’s hoping your message got where it was going. Did you send it?”
Captain Hawk nodded, “Aye… I did that right before the bartender pulled out the good rum. Ya think he’ll be alright?”
Captain Celaeno nodded, “of course he will. I’ve always said that I may be the greatest pirate to sail the skies, but on the sea, Captain Sail is king. If any pony can pull through this… it’s him.”
With their ex-captain gone, Powder Keg approached Pinpoint as he sat down next to him at the bar and spoke, “So… what do ya plan to do now Mr. Point? Now that we don’t sail for Capt’n Sail anymore, what’s your next action?”
Pinpoint sighed, “not sure… what about you? What’s the great gunner and sniper gonna do now that he owns the weapon that killed the fake Iron Hoof?”
Powder Keg looked at his musket as he replied, “I ain’t gonna sell it fi that’s what your insinuating.”
Captain Celaeno approached the two as she as she put her arm around Pinpoint’s shoulder and held him close, “So… Mr. Point, might I ask a question?... if you and the rest of Captain Sail’s crew are now out of the job… might I ask to hire you for a… voyage of sorts? I can’t say you won’t regret it, but it may be of interest to both you and your crew.”

The Next morning Captain Sail laid hungover in his quarters as the sun peeked over the cliffs surrounding Pirates cove as they shined through his window and onto his face. Out of reflex, the tired captain reached for his hat and put it over his face to block the sun, but just as he did he heard some noises outside as a voice called, “Carful with those supplies! We need them intact if was want a stable accord to take place! You! Off your plot and grab those riggings I want those barrels on here now! Work smartly lads, we ain’t got all day!”
Confused, Captain Sail got up from his bunk put on his hat, vest and Siren’s dagger and exited his cabin to see his entire crew prepping the ship for departure. As he looked over his working crew, he saw Pinpoint directing some sailors as he approached them and spoke, “Uh… Mr. Point? What pray-tell do you think you’re doing?”
Pinpoint didn’t look at Captain Sail as he replied, “We’re preppin’ for departure… what’s it look like?”

Captain Sail replied with an annoyed tone, “It looks like your disobeyin’ my order and are trespassin’ on my ship after I clearly fired you lot yesterday.”
Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Aye… you fired your permanent crew… but not your temporary one.”
Captain Sail was annoyed as he sighed, “Ya got my attention… so explain.”
Pinpoint turned to his captain and sighed in a disrespectful way, “Captain… you fired us yesterday… why?”
Captain Sail replied, “Cuz what’s next is something I need to do al-“
Pinpoint interrupted, “Yea yea, alone we get that… but why DID you fire us?”
Hearing the question, most of the working crew stopped what they were doing as they looked to their captain for a reply. Seeing that he was now the center of attention, Captain Sail hesitated as Pinpoint answered, “Could it be that you, our captain fired us, your crew, because you had the full intention on turnin’ yourself in to the Equestrian royal guard. And as our captain you knew that if you turned yourself in, most likely we would be caught too and tried alongside you which would result in a mass execution of everypony on this ship… correct? So you, as our captain, fired us to keep us safe and out of harm’s way. No different from diverting us away from a storm to avoid risk to any of us. Is that right captain?”

Captain Sail gave Pinpoint a dull look as he replied, “Kinda puttin’ me on the spot here Mr. Point.”
Powder Keg trotted up as he spoke next, “and how did you plan on getting’ to Equestria Sail? In a row boat?”
Captain Sail’s annoyed expression shifted to the gunner as he immediately remembered who he was talking to as he stepped back in an intimidated way, “uh… I mean… c-capt’n.”
With his glare on his ex-gunner, Captain Sail stood silent as Pinpoint answered again, “you planed on hiring a temporary crew to go back to Equestria didn’t you… a pirate crew who probably would form a mutiny the minute they realized you were turning yourself in… and with no quartermaster or gunner on your side, that wouldn’t bode well for you would it?”
Captain Sail turned back to Pinpoint as he replied, “So… instead, you decide to mutiny first?”
Pinpoint replied as he gestured to the crew around them, “Not at all Captain, we are your new temporary crew, already paid in full by Captain Celaeno. It was her order that we deliver you to Equestria.”

Captain Sail gave him a dull look as he started to reply, “So Celaeno put ya up to this did she… Alright, then listen closely, If you are my temporary crew then you will follow this order, Get off the Bloody Ti-“
“Captain… ya know I have been your quartermaster for two decades, so ya know I'll follow any order you decide to give. Accept… that one.” Pinpoint stood up strait as he spoke with an almost demanding tone, “Say what ya want captain, but we are your crew. Temporary or permanent, we have followed you to the deepest depths of hell, almost deep enough to see a few of the traitors ya killed along the way. And if that’s where you intend to go, then we will follow ya. Iron Hoof, The Leviathan, even The Reaper, we will face your challenges by your side, or we will pull you back from them. No other options… so you can either give us an order we will follow, or I'll give the order. Either way we ain’t getting off this ship unless she is sinking beneath us.”
Captain Sail kept his annoyed expression as he looked at the rest of the crew and replied, “So this is how ya all feel then? A fool’s tactic? Declaring mutiny by stayin’ loyal?”

Though some of the crimson pirates looked nervous, they all nodded in agreement as a few of them replied with aye. Seeing this, Captain Sail sighed as he mumbled quietly, “Then a fool I be…” he spoke up, “Deepest circle of hells lads… Looks like I'll see ya there… Work smartly ya scabless buildrats! Your quartermaster gave ya an order. And unless you’re willin’ to disobey me twice in one day, ya best be gettin’ on it!”
Seeing that Captain Sail had finally seen things their way the crew smiled as they scattered to get back to work and called, “AYE!”
As the crew got back to work, Pinpoint smiled as he replied, “Good to have ya back Captain.”
Captain Sail rolled his eyes as he turned to trot away, “Yea, yea… just don’t make me regret it Mr. Point.”
Pinpoint nodded, “aye aye captain.”

As captain trotted back across the main deck he paused when one of his sailors called, “Capt’n! Visitor from ashore!”
Captain Sail looked at the gang plank as he saw Trip Ticket stepping onto the deck as the elderly unicorn smiled, “Ah so it’s true then… Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail has returned from the leviathan sea... and in one piece no less” he looked at Captain Sail’s Cut on his shoulder and continued, “Well… sorta.” Captain Sail Smiled, “Well if it isn’t Teacher Ticket… the sailor who led us to my ghost. Though it would have been better if ya did it sooner.”
Trip Ticket started examining the Bloody Tides deck, “Funny, I didn’t figure you a believer of ghost stories.” He looked at a small scar in the deck’s planks that was made by a metal horseshoe as he spoke, “So… Ya met with iron hoof did ya?… and he was on this ship wasn’t he?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… She was.”

At first Trip Ticket gave him a funny look, but then he realized what the captain was talking about as he nodded, “ah I see… it was young Siren on the helm then. How is the young lass by the way? I ain’t seen her since she was a wee bonnie near knee high.”
Captain Sail replied with an unhappy tone, “Well she ain’t a wee lass anymore… and, I’m afraid she ain’t anythin’ anymore.”
Trip Ticket sighed in disappointment, “Well… that’s a shame… was it you that did her in?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… She was the ghost, and I the hunter. It was destined that I send her down with her ship.”
Trip Ticket nodded with a slightly disappointed tone, “Well then, at least she went down with honor. As any well-seasoned captain should”
Captain Sail continued, “Aye she did…”
The old unicorn sighed, “Shame… she was a good filly. I’d think she has grown into a fine lass in the past two decades.”

Captain Sail nodded as he sat down, “S’pose she di- … Mr. Ticket?… did you say… two decades?
Trip Ticket replied with a confused tone, “Did I say two decades?... sorry, I meant twenty years or so… Guess my mind is slippin’ a tad.”
Captain Sail replied with an untrusting tone, “Mr. Ticket, I have to ask… how did you come by that map o’ yours?”
Trip Ticket smiled as he used his cane to trot along the ships railing, “Map? I own plenty of maps laddie… though if it’s my treasure map you’re asking ‘bout… I made it meself. Out of a crayon and paper. But don’t listen to it… it lies like a dog… or a groggy duck… ducks lie don’t they? I’m guessin’ they do.”
Captain Sail continued with the same tone, “I think ya know what map I’m talking about… the one that lead me to my ghost… the same map that took us to the Leviathan Sea and what it hides.”
Without hiding it, Trip Ticket replied, “Ah yes… the map of home. Course I use thate name in the literal since, since I am from there.”
Captain Sail gave him a curious look, “You’re from Home?”
Trip ticket nodded, “Aye born and raised.”
Captain Sail thought to himself, “So then… you know all about Home.”
Hearing the distrust in his tone, Trip Ticket replied with a seemingly confused tone, “Do I?”

Seeing through the ruse, Captain Sail replied with curiosity, “If ya know all about Home then I’d think you know of Iron Hoof’s real purpose. Of the pearl he protects… and why…”
Trip Ticket looked into Pirate cove from the main deck and nodded, “Aye… Pearl, a beautiful lass with huge… wings. A hippogriff of hippogriffs if you’re into that sort of thing that is.”
At that moment Pinpoint trotted up with a smile but before he could greet his old teacher, Captain Sail replied knowing that the elderly sailors rambling was a diversion, “Aye… acordin’ to the guardian, that pearl has the magic to turn anypony or hippogriff into a seapony right… but I wonder… Could it have the ability to turn a hippogriff, to a unicorn?”

Hearing the question, Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail in curiosity as Trip Ticket smirked and replied with honesty, “Aye it can, will… and did.”
Captain Sail Continued, “You’re a hippogriff… ain’t ya?
Knowing he was found out, Trip Ticket glanced at Captain Sail out the corner of his eye, “I am…”
Captain Sail continued, “So… care to explain a bit… bout your involvement… with the Annabelle?”
Pinpoint was even more surprised now as he looked at Trip Ticket and spoke, “What?... you mean… you had something to do with it?”
Trip Ticket nodded, “aye… S’pose I did. I would guess you met me daughter then… last I heard, she was called Priestess of the temple. Goes by Aqua, as did her mother.”
Captain Sail smiled, “I'd say Mr. Point knew her a little more personally then I… but aye… we met Miss Aqua.”
Trip Ticket gave Pinpoint an untrusting look, “Did he now?...” The look lasted for a brief moment longer before the old stallion shrugged his shoulders and replied, “She’s a grown lass and can set her own course, but I s’pose she could do worse.”

Pinpoint sighed as he replied, “Granted, I’m not the best out there, but let’s stay focused… Mr. Ticket… What do you know about the Annabelle?”
Trip ticked leaned against the rail of the ship as he tapped his cane on the deck, “After me daughter was born, I left Home and came here so I could pass the word of the leviathan sea. The word of tragedy and woe the likes of which no sailor bold enough to surrender his ship and crew could ever ignore. Best to keep any fool-hearty scallywag from venturing into those waters. Though that was prior to me takin you in to teach ya all I know ‘bout navigation. But then word reached my ears about a rouge priest stealing a book from Home and trying to sell it to some land lubber in Equestria. So when Iron Hoof came to my doorstep askin for records of an Equestrian ship under a captain named Sail… I pointed him towards the Annabelle. So… it’d be safe to say… The Annabelle’s sinkin’ was more my doin’ then his.”
Captain Sail’s expression was hard to read as he replied with an almost annoyed tone, “So… the book with the maps… was that the relic aboard the Annabelle when she sank?”

Trip nodded as he replied, “Aye it was… Iron Hoof passed it to me after the Annabelle sank. Told me that it may serve a purpose in the future. So when my student came to me askin’ ‘bout the Lullaby, I figured its purpose was nye.”
Captain Sail nodded with a slightly angry tone, “So… in all this… the reason I set out on this whole voyage, and this whole mess… was you’re doin’.”
Hearing the conversation, a few of the Crimson pirates started surrounding the group as they griped their weapons in preparation for their captain’s next order. As Trip Ticket saw this, he started expecting the same order as he replied with a casual tone, “I s’pose you’re right… so… what’s next captain? now that ya know the truth… are you gonna do me in?... do you intend on takin out your revenge by blowin’ me down, just as you did the Iron Wing, Sabastian, and Siren?”

Although he was more surprised that Trip Ticket knew about all the ponies he killed in the Leviathan sea, Captain Sail thought about them all as he started to consider his options. He thought about the original Iron Hoof who he spent years hunting only to find that he wasn’t the pony he thought he was. He thought about Sebastian who was once a simple cabin boy on his father’s ship, who eventually turned coat and became the monster he was hunting. Then, he thought about Siren… After that, Captain Sail looked at Trip Ticket, who stood in front of him using his cane to hold himself up, with no stance or expression that showed he wouldn’t even attempt to defend himself. As he looked at the old unicorn, Captain Sail could only sigh as he reached into his vest and pulled out Siren’s dagger. Seeing this, the Crimson Pirates drew their weapons as Trip Ticked smiled, “so… your choice be death then is it… well it be your right.”
Captain Sail looked down at the dagger and smiled peacefully as he replied, “No… it ain’t.” He put away the dagger as he continued, “I’ve already sunk the Iron Wing, and killed Iron Hoof. So as far as I’m concerned, I’ve seen enough blood over something as petty as revenge.”

Seeing the decision, Pinpoint smiled as Trip Ticket replied, “Ya sure ‘bout that Capt’n? You ain’t gonna get any better time than now.”
Ignoring the words, Captain Sail looked around to see his crew watching the scenario as Captain Sail called, “What are you lot gawkin’ at? Sheath your weapons and get your plots back to work!!! This ain’t no day care! Ya chose to come back to my ship so I expect ya to work like it!!!”
Quickly turning back to their duties, the crew put away their weapons and went back to work as Captain Sail looked to Trip Ticket and spoke, “I appreciate your honesty Teacher Ticket, but unless you’re intending on hitchin’ a ride to Equestria, you may want to go ashore.”
Seeing that Captain Sail didn’t intend on continuing the conversation, Trip Ticket smiled as he replied, “Aye… then I should take my leave.” He gave Pinpoint a stern look, “I'll expect ya to watch your step, should you cross my daughter’s path again… aye boyo?”

Hearing the obvious threat, Pinpoint nodded, “Um… Aye Sir.”
Trip Ticket nodded as he turned towards the gangplank and replied, “Smart lad… ya always had a good head on your shoulders.” He stepped onto the gangplank as he spoke to Captain Sail, “Capt’n if the Tide should bring ya back to the Cove, s’pose you should tell me in better detail about your adventure in the Leviathan Sea.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye I’ll hold ya to that, if you’re willin’ to buy a paint for my crew that is.”
The old sailor smiled, “I may… though forgive me if I’m a little short. I don’t get much plunder anymore.”
Captain Sail smiled, “tryin to stiff me before I even need it eh?”
Trip Ticket nodded, “Ya know now that I was once a hippogriff… but need I remind you that I am still a pirate?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Nah… then again, you still have to remind me whether your wise or just plain daft.”
The Elder pirate smiled, “What’s the difference?”

With that as his last words Trip Ticket stepped back onto the dock and started trotting back into the cove as Captain Sail smiled at the response, before speaking to Pinpoint, “Well… that was unexpected.”
Pinpoint gave him a funny look, “I know… I wasn’t expectin’ Teacher Ticket to be a Hippogriff…”
Captain Sail turned away from Pinpoint as he started trotting towards the upper deck, “Not that, I was talkin’ ‘bout his reaction to your rendezvous with his flesh and blood. I was half expecting it to be a repeat of the Ibex incident.”
Pinpoint followed his captain as he replied with a confused expression, “A repeat?... you mean you expected him to draw a sword on me and chase us into the horizon demandin’ either a wedding or blood.”

Pinpoint realized something before giving him a dull look as the two reached the upper deck and turned to look over the rest of the ship, “Wait… so when you told him that I and the priestess were together… you expected him to react violently?”
Captain Sail smiled with sarcasm, “Kinda… figured it would be one last danger filled hurrah for us. After all, we knew him as Teacher Ticket. The pirate who trained the most ruthless sea dogs this cove has ever seen.”
Pinpoint sighed, “Ya know Captain… Sometimes you scare me when ya need a little excitement in your day.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye that’s true… I thought after hiring Powder Keg I wouldn’t have that need anymore. Sadly I broke him in too well.”

At that moment the two looked over to Powder Keg as he yelled at one of his gunners on the main deck, “SEE THAT!!! That is a speck of rust on gun three… RUST!!! Get your plot over there and see to it and the rest of the guns better not be the same! I don’t want to see that on any of the Captain’s guns, GOT THAT!?!”
Seeing the action from across the ship, Pinpoint nodded at Captain Sail’s words, “Aye ya did captain… used to be we’d have at least one exploding gun ever other voyage. Granted we make more money this way, but the excitement seems misplaced.”
Captain Sail nodded, “aye, though this voyage will be plenty exciting enough.”
Pinpoint nodded, “that’s true… since we are basically threatening the Reaper by returning. Which means we are threatening the entire Kingdom of Equestria.”
Captain Sail smiled, “We’ve threatened worse, just last week we threatened a god.”
Pinpoint sighed, “No… the Reaper is worse. You didn’t leave the leviathan at alter.”

Captain Sail thought to himself, “Yea, your right about that.”
At that moment Powder Keg approached, “Capt’n… the crew is ready anything else before we depart?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nah… I think we are all set.” He looked at Pinpoint, “Call the order Mr. Point, you know our heading so work smartly.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye Captain.” he looked over the ship, “ALL HOOVES ON DECK!!! Cast off and open the sails! Time to make way!”
With that, all sailors followed the order as they set the Bloody Tide on its way out of Pirate Cove and on its way to Equestria.

Ch18 The Crimson Accord

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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.”