Fight to Run, Die to Live (2/2)
Continuing from Part 1
***
Strange. Very strange.
James blinked, didn't want to believe what he saw. And felt.
Water.
He was surrounded by sheer endless spaces of water. But he didn't float, didn't need to hold his breath. He sat against the rail of the submerged Flying Dutchman. But there was no pain, no weakness anymore. Only the vague sense of immaterial bonds. To the ship itself. To the crew.
His crew. He focused his attention across the deck. The barnacled figures stood some yards in front of him. Waiting for his orders.
Two of them were holding the locked chest. Although he couldn't hear anything except the rushing of the sea, he instantly knew that it again contained a living, beating heart.
His own.
James' hand wandered to his chest, automatically fumbled for the wound - and failed.
There was no flesh under his fingers, only cloth. Firm cloth. Remarkably familiar cloth. His eyes darted downwards and widened in astonishment. He wore the same uniform as he did when he was a Commodore of the British Royal Navy. Even his sword, the one that killed him, was at his belt, sheathed in its scabbard. Carefully he touched his face and head, too.
He was clean-shaven, his regular tricorn was in place as well, but without the wig. His natural, shoulder-length hair ended in a neat queue. Well, on this ship he definitely didn't need a further sign of authority like that powdered monstrosity.
But this change of appearance was really unexpected.
Why should whoever was responsible for the Dutchman's forces think of him as the honorable and dignified officer he was in the past? He had not only completely failed to stay that way but instead sold himself to the fiercest menace he'd ever met.
"Don't damn yerself anymore, James Norrington. Ye are a good man and the best choice to fulfill the Dutchman's purpose that could've been found."
The female voice was in his head, his mind. He didn't know her, but an instinctive trust, a vague sense of connection to him and the ship, eased his first discomfort.
"Who are you?" he asked as silently as she had addressed him.
"I am Calypso, goddess of the sea. It was I who charged Davy Jones with the task of ferrying all souls who died at sea to their afterlife. He disappointed and betrayed me when he not only cut out and cursed his heart, but helped the first Brethren Court to bind me into human form. But the worst was that he corrupted his purpose when he abandoned the drifting souls and treated them with cruelty. Now it is yer duty to collect and guide them to the afterlife they have waited for far too long."
Duty. Now that was something he understood perfectly well.
"Then perhaps you're right that I'm worthy of your mercy, milady. Though I lost my path somewhere in the past, devotion to duty was one of my better qualities for most of my life."
He heard a soft chuckle.
"I know that, James Norrington. Ye were the one who served others, not yerself. And ye will be that one again. Ye will not betray yer duty, ye will stay loyal to the souls, will be gentle but strict with them and always care about the ones dear to yer heart. That's why ye will never be lonely, never again rejected."
James held his breath, confusion overwhelmed him.
"What are you talking about? I'm undead, cursed to sail between two worlds. How can I ever find someone to love me? Who would love a man, a ghost, that has no heart and will probably live for centuries, if not forever?"
It seemed like he could hear her smile.
"Trust me, ye already are loved. And ye soon will learn that ye love that person, too. Ye'll have one day ashore every ten years, the first of them today. Use them wisely, as well as the power ye've been given. Ye are allowed to do whatever ye think necessary or makes ye happy as long as ye never abandon yer duty."
James swallowed, his throat seemed to narrow. For a moment he felt dizzy, as a wave of knowledge rushed into his mind.
Oh Lord, he'd never guessed what unimaginable amount of power was part of captaining the Flying Dutchman! It didn't surprise him anymore that no one could match her, especially when led by the cruel ambitions of the late Davy Jones. He made a silent promise to never misuse these forces.
"Be assured, James Norrington, that ye really are worthy of my favour. Just remember one unchangeable rule: It's all a question of choice. Ye can but don't need to ask every soul to stay and join yer crew, but any who declines is to be ferried along to eternal peace. As is any who wants to quit yer service after five years, no matter how long they promised to stay in the first place."
In an instant, he got on his feet. Fortunately, his body obeyed and was as strong as ever. No trembling, no injuries. No physical or mental uncertainty about anything.
"You have my word on this, milady. I won't disappoint either you or the souls."
"I have confidence in ye, Captain Norrington. Now go on yer way, I know ye wish to turn something to good account and ye're needed to do so."
James wanted to thank the goddess, but he sensed that she was already gone. Well, perhaps he would get the chance another time. He had plenty of that now...
Unlike the living souls above him who tried to intercept Beckett.
James clasped his hands behind his back, cleared his throat and addressed the still waiting crew.
"All hands on stations, man the guns and prepare to emerge."
***
Breaking through the surface into bright sunlight was a breathtaking experience. James stood on the quarterdeck near the helm, as he always did when he was a commanding Navy officer. But he felt very different from those long past times. If there was no urgent task he had to take care of he would allow himself to enjoy the ride, something he could never do while performing his naval service. But now wasn't the opportune moment, as Jack would probably say.
Jack...
James hoped that he, Elizabeth and Turner had escaped the mess on the Dutchman before the ship submerged. He didn't want to ferry their souls. Especially not Jack's. He still felt the pirate's lips on his forehead, heard the soft farewell he'd bidden him.
Jamie-luv.
No one had ever called him Jamie, not even in his childhood. He also couldn't remember anyone who offered him such tender comfort as Jack did when he died. The pirate's sad but encouraging and fond smile was James' last sight, when his mortal existence ended.
And the most precious gift he had received in his life.
A soft smile grew on his own face. There could be only one reason for the pirate's obvious care about himself and his own feelings for Jack...
Calypso had told him he was already loved.
She knew. Now he knew that she was right. And that he had indeed started to return this unexpected love, as she had said. That he longed to see Jack, talk with him. Touch him...
Damn. Bloody bad time to muse about love!
James took a deep breath, ordered himself to stop any distracting thoughts, and surveyed the suspiciously calm sea.
Both fleets were still waiting, only the Endeavour and the Pearl were heading towards each other. So he didn't waste precious time below waters. Very well.
He flinched when something suddenly cracked from the Dutchman's hull. There was another crack, and all at once the whole ship seemed to shudder. James gasped while he watched not only the cursed vessel but also his crew shedding their rotten appearances. The sails changed into white ones, the deformed creatures...
Well, they became men, lost all the barnacles and sea attributes as quickly as the ship. And a beautiful ship she was, with silver and gold ornaments as well as clean decks, neat rigging and a polished hull.
James shook his head to banish his feelings of admiration. No time for this at present. He pressed his lips together and swallowed. There was no other choice to defeat the company's fleet than making an example of killing Beckett. He had to unite with the Pearl and engage the Endeavour, this proud British three-decked ship of the line.
That would probably cost the lives of some hundreds of his former comrades.
Including one of his closest friends from Port Royal.
James clenched his jaw and straightened his back. He hated what he had to do. But he would do it nonetheless. Though it was long ago - strictly speaking, in another life - he'd sworn to protect every human being threatened by injustice and undeserved harm.
He'd failed to keep his oath many times.
He wouldn't fail today.
***
Both, the Flying Dutchman and the Black Pearl pivoted simultaneously towards the Endeavour. James smiled as soon as he recognized Jack on the black ship's quarterdeck. Of course he survived and returned to his precious lady, how could James ever think he wouldn't?
His gaze, sharpened by his new powers, wandered to the company's flagship.
Beckett seemed frozen, his eyes were unnaturally wide and somewhat helpless, his lips moved constantly. Of course, he never suspected the Dutchman to turn against him...
Theodore Groves stood beside the Lord, apparently asking for orders.
Orders...
They were right beside the Endeavour's forecastle, had just reached the best position for attack. James heard shouting from the Pearl and the roar of her cannons. For a second he closed his eyes, then focused on his crew and lifted his chin.
"Fire!" he bellowed.
It was a horrible disaster for Beckett. His opponents centered him, blew his ship to pieces through constant broadsides without any resistance. No single shot was fired by any of the three-decker's guns while the ship was crushed between the Dutchman's and Pearl's united powers.
James saw and actually felt every single death aboard the Endeavour. He didn't flinch or avoid looking at the terrible destruction, but though his heart was below decks, in his cabin, it hurt far more than ever before.
Those he just killed were his men, if only for a short time. Good men, loyal and brave. Their only sin was serving a man they shouldn't.
As was his own until the day before yesterday.
When the ship's quarterdecks nearly reached the same level, his eyes met Captain Groves', saw them widen in surprise - and horror. James forced the upcoming lump back down his throat. A single tear rolled down his cheek. "I'm sorry, Theo," he whispered.
He watched his desperate friend jumping into the sea, followed by others. Maybe they would get away. Oh, he so much hoped they would!
When his ship passed the wreck, still firing, James turned to continue observing. Beckett walked down the crashing staircase, untouched by and seemingly unaware of the millions of splinters dashing around him. Just as he stepped onto the deck, a giant explosion tore the whole ship apart.
While it start to sink, the Lord's corpse hurtled through the air until it hit the already drifting flag of the EIC.
James cocked an eyebrow.
Now, that was a fitting end as well as a fitting place for Lord Cutler Beckett and his voracious ambitions...
The remaining fleet, although they greatly outnumbered the pirates, turned tail. Certainly they wouldn't dare engage their former ally, for which James was more than thankful.
He surveyed the now calm surface. Not a single man among the wretched debris. No survivors. More than eight hundred sailors and marines lost. Killed by himself. And he would meet every single soul aboard the Dutchman ferrying them to their afterlives.
James gritted his teeth. He would apologise. To all of them. Especially Theo. Even though he was sure that his friend must hate him, and would never forgive him for this slaughter.
Well, that made two of them...
***
A short time later a group of visitors from the Pearl boarded over the gangplank. Two of them appeared uneasy and uncomfortable.
Elizabeth and Turner shared looks he couldn't read, but - amazingly - wasn't interested in. Jack grinned the same wicked way as always, except his eyes held a new sparkle and a softness James knew was for him alone. Their companion...
James knitted his brows.
He'd never met that older pirate with the worn black hat, of that he was certain. Maybe he was one of the pirate lords?
He cleared his throat and addressed his guests. "Welcome aboard the Flying Dutchman. At least for the moment. This is no place for living people."
Will Turner rolled his eyes and stepped forward. Elizabeth prodded him and hissed: "Don't. Just bid your thanks and ask him!"
Turner looked down and clenched his jaw as well as his fists before he approached James. "I owe you thanks, Norrington," he said in a cold voice, "both for Elizabeth's rescue and my own."
James sighed inwardly and clasped his hands behind his back. Some things never changed. Including a rash, blacksmith-turned-pirate whelp who tended to forget his place. But he would rather ignore than bother with the lack of addressing him as 'Captain'. After all, James wasn't Jack...
"You don't have to thank me for saving your lives, Mr. Turner. It was my duty to provide Elizabeth's happiness, which is inevitably attached to your well-being."
Funny, it didn't hurt anymore to say that... Maybe cutting out his heart was actually the cure he needed?
No. His feelings for Jack hadn't altered nor lessened. He exchanged a look with Sparrow. Still the same gentleness there that he saw prior his death.
Again Elizabeth seemed to urge Turner, whispered something in his ear. But he just glowered at her and spat: "I know what I promised. But I won't beg him for it, even if my soul was about to be doomed. Don't expect me to prostrate myself before that traitorous bastard! Nothing of the last months would have happened if he hadn't surrendered the heart to Beckett!"
Jack's annoyed expression mirrored James' feelings, but the pirate stood silent. A miracle, James thought.
"Then I will do it myself," Elizabeth stated and turned to her first fiancé.
Just then the strange pirate touched her shoulder and said: "Missus Turner... May I suggest..."
Mrs. Turner? When did they get married? James masked his amazement behind his usual stern façade.
"No, Captain Barbossa, you may not," she responded, shoved his hand away and focused on Norrington.
James barely succeeded in keeping his stiff expression. Barbossa? The cursed pirate Jack killed at Isla de Muerta? Now that was a nasty surprise. Seemed that death wasn't very effective of late. At least not among the pirates.
"James... Will's father is one of your crew. Will promised to free him."
So that's why they both came aboard in the first place. Of course. She never would really care about any other creature than her dearly beloved and herself, except the two dead fathers...
James noticed a sailor who smiled hopefully at the couple - and recognized the figure as the one who stabbed him after he freed Elizabeth. Why did that not surprise him in the least? Too rash, your name is Turner...
"You, sailor. Are you William Turner senior?" he asked.
"Aye, Captain. Bootstrap Bill Turner, at your service..." The man avoided eye contact, was shy and obviously frightened. James couldn't blame him after all Davy Jones did to terrorize his own cursed crew.
Elizabeth stepped closer and addressed him once more. "I know he hurt you badly, James. But he wasn't himself then, he was already a part of the ship, didn't know what..."
"What side he chose?" James interrupted her. "I know. Don't argue with me about wrong decisions, I made enough of them in my former life. One was to trust you with my heart."
Astonishment grew on many faces. Except Sparrow's, who coughed to hide a grin, and Will Turner. The young man put his arm around his wife's shoulder, pure hatred in his eyes. "Don't you dare to insult my wife, Norrington!" he spat.
James shook his head. He would never learn...
"It was not meant as an insult, Mr. Turner, it's simply the truth. I did love Elizabeth and she didn't return my sentiments, ergo my proposal to her was a wrong decision. But as I don't love her now, it's not necessary to talk about it."
Turner's mouth opened and shut a few times, like a stranded fish gasping for air.
James' face stayed unmoved while Elizabeth gaped at him, clutching Turner's arm to prevent another rash action.
"You... you stopped loving me?" she stuttered. "Why?"
"Because I did love a headstrong but spirited and very fine young woman I used to know back in Port Royal and at Isla Cruces, even the proud fighter for justice I captured with the Empress. But I do not love the pirate king."
Jack snickered openly, Barbossa cocked his eyebrows while the Turners simply stared at James, apparently dumbfounded. Which was fine, as he didn't want to hear more of their babbling. Time to dismiss them...
"As for your request..."
He paused, saw Elizabeth flinching about this word, and suppressed a smug smile. The growing sparkle in Jack's eyes made James himself more comfortable as he continued. "I would greatly appreciate all members of the Turner family to leave my ship. Now."
They looked at each other, then Elizabeth asked: "What do you claim for Bootstrap's release?"
Now that hurt more than any rejection, any distress she put him through. James' expression instantly became aloof. He straightened his back.
"You don't know me." The truth of it dawned on him even as he spoke the words, his grief hidden behind his cold voice. "Nine years we socialized with each other, called ourselves friends, I even died for your happiness! And you ask me all the same if I demand a reward for the release of your father-in-law?" He shook his head, lips pressed together, before he continued. "You don't know anything about my nature. You didn't even try to. No, there isn't any condition. Take it as a wedding gift."
She jerked back from him, her eyes wide. Jack coughed again, much louder than the first time. But not loud enough to mute his laughter. Barbossa wrinkled his nose and shook his head at Sparrow, who attempted to shoo him away.
When Elizabeth tried to speak, James interrupted her again with a raised hand. "Oh, and by the way... I give you my word that no one of you three will ever be asked if you fear death as long as this ship and its duty is under my command. I suggest you die ashore or at peace. Farewell, Mrs. Turner."
***
An awkward silence descended, following the Turners' departure; only a few crew's feet scrabbled the deck. Once he was sure they were outside earshot, James cleared his throat and locked eyes with Barbossa.
"Excuse me for not being pleased to see you, Captain Barbossa. What do you want?"
Jack's face, greatly amused just seconds ago, became serious, and his hands started to wave in his distinctive way.
"Now that's my turn to explain, dear Commodore." He carefully eyed the uniform, hat and sword. "Ye are Commodore, aren't ye?"
James sighed. "I command only one ship, so the correct form to address me is the same as for you, Captain Sparrow. And I asked Captain Barbossa what he wants, not you!"
"But..."
"Jack! Keep silent," James barked, but added a soft "Please..."
The pirate's pout was remarkable, nearly matched the one James' long deceased aunt used to show not less than a dozen times each day. He suppressed a chuckle and turned towards Barbossa.
"Captain?"
"Oh, never mind, Captain Norrington. Just wanna bid the honors and ask for yer good will," Barbossa snarled.
James cocked one eyebrow. Honors? Good will? Unthinkable to hear such words from the reckless pirate Barbossa used to be.
"I don't desire anything bidden by you, least of all something including the word 'honor'," he replied in a cold, low tone. "And be assured that although we had to unite to defeat Beckett, I don't see any common ground between us. Leave."
"James, please listen to me," Jack said and stepped nearer. "Hector and I, we have a problem and need yer help to solve it."
Norrington bit his lip. He couldn't deny Jack anything. Not only because he loved him, but also for what he owed him.
"I see. So, what is it?"
It was Barbossa who answered.
"As a matter of fact, we both claim the Pearl to be ours. Since we worked out our former..." He hesitated.
"Your former disrespect for Jack's rights?" James snapped.
Sparrow grinned again and performed his little bow. "Think that's it, luv," he agreed.
"Let's say, I wouldn't kill him but won't hesitate to leave him behind," Barbossa corrected with a smirk.
Bastard.
Maybe he supported the right side; fought his part to win the battle. But James would never like or trust this man.
They stood silently for a while, each observing the other while musing over their trouble. Finally, James got an idea. He wasn't really pleased about it, but he wouldn't disappoint Jack's confidence.
"Captain Barbossa, I propose a bargain. You'll leave the Black Pearl and promise to never again try to take her away from Jack. In return you name a ship... any ship already gone. I'll raise and repair it and hand it over to you."
Both pirates stared at him in surprise. Jack was the first to recover.
"But... James. Any ship? Even one that's faster than my lady?"
Barbossa grinned, clearly satisfied. "Aye, that sounds fair. Any ship already gone, no matter how long, no matter how big or how much destroyed, for leaving the Pearl and Jack be. So we have an accord?"
"We have, Captain Barbossa. But I suggest you choose wisely. As much as I'd understand your desire to captain a big ship, like the Endeavour, for example, don't forget that you would need at least five hundred men to work her properly in a battle. I daresay that would be expensive to maintain. Not to mention that smaller ships are more manoeuvrable..."
Sparrow chuckled while James allowed one corner of his mouth to twitch upwards a little. Barbossa made a face. Seemed he didn't expect Norrington to guess his target.
"Could've told ye, mate," Jack stated. "He's a clever one, my Commodore."
"So it would seem," James remarked dryly. "Captain Barbossa, if you like the Company's or Navy's ships that much, may I suggest the Interceptor? She's nearly as fast as the Pearl, just a little smaller, and easy to crew. Trust me, I was quite fond of her when she was under my command."
Jack's eyes widened, his lips moved silently while he fixed Norrington's gaze. James' smirk grew into a soft smile. "Yes, Jack. I can endure her sailing under a pirate flag. I'm not Navy anymore. In fact, I'm dead. And it is a very small price for your happiness aboard your Pearl."
Barbossa cocked one eyebrow, his eyes flitting back and forth between the men, while Jack's expression gentled.
"Jamie..." Sparrow started, but was interrupted.
"Seems to me ye've taken a liking to each other, did ye?" Barbossa said. "Of course that doesn't bother me as long as ye don't turn yer joined forces against me."
James' humourless smile didn't reach his eyes.
"The Flying Dutchman will no longer harm other ships, Captain Barbossa. Not if we aren't first attacked ourselves. Under my command this vessel will serve its original purpose of ferrying souls. No more, no less," he stated.
"Then I accept the Interceptor, Captain Norrington. When will we meet? At sunset? Or dawn?" Barbossa extended his hand.
James hesitated a moment before he took the pirate's hand as briefly as possible, just to settle the deal. Then he explained: "Neither, Captain Barbossa. The wreck is not in the vicinity and is blown to pieces. My crew and I will need at least a week to raise and restore her."
Jack chuckled, but Barbossa glared at Norrington with open rage.
"A week? That's ridiculous!" His eyes shot daggers. "Don't try to double-cross me, lad, ye wouldn't like the consequences!"
Jack rolled his eyes and waved his hands. "Now, now Hector... calm down. I'm sure James never thought of betraying ye, aye?"
"Of course I won't. But having some supernatural powers doesn't mean I'm a magician," James said. "Besides, we didn't mention the technical details of raising sunken ships, did we?"
Now it was Barbossa who rolled his eyes, perhaps remembering that he himself was an expert in bargaining without specifying details...
James nodded and continued. "Well, as this is settled I suggest you move to Shipwreck Cove and spend the waiting period picking up a crew. Farewell, Captain Barbossa. And please do me one last favor..."
"Aye, I know" Barbossa snarled with a smirk. "Dying at peace or ashore, for ye never will allow me to stay aboard the Dutchman. Don't worry, Navy. I would rather hang from the gallows than serve under yer command!"
Two identical smiles grew on Jack's and James' lips when Barbossa turned and left the ship.
When their eyes met, none of them spoke for a long while. Finally James cleared his suddenly very dry throat and asked: "Captain Sparrow, would you please meet me ashore? There are several things I want to talk about in a more... private atmosphere."
The pirate nodded, open joy on his face. "It'll be my honor, Captain Norrington."
***
James was sitting upon a rock at the beach, wearing only shirt, breeches and boots. His coat lay folded besides him. When Jack jumped off his skiff and pulled it out of the water, he stood up and waited for the approaching pirate. His breathing became faster and he sensed an odd rush inside though there was no heart to speed up his pulse.
"What took you so long, Jack?" James asked with a hint of nervousness. "Trouble with that broken compass of yours?"
"Nay, just not accustomed to rowing long ways by my onesies, after the Locker and such... Unfortunately, I'm not able to just move through water like ye, mate," Jack replied.
The pirate grinned and tilted his head, looked at him in a charming and gentle way nobody else had ever done. Beautiful. James felt like fire and melted honey simultaneously. He moved without thought, his arms wrapped around Sparrow and his lips found Jack's.
"Want this... You... So much..." he whispered into the pirate's mouth, slipped his tongue through now open barriers of white and golden teeth. Jack's tongue invaded his own mouth, joined his for a desperate dancing duel.
James never felt so complete, never experienced any comparable intensity. His skin, his whole body seemed to burn. Tears ran down his cheek. Oh God... He suddenly broke away from Jack, sank to his knees, and buried his face in both hands.
"Jamie... What's wrong, luv?" He heard Jack's anxious voice.
A hand grabbed his shoulder, another stroked his head, pushed strands of loose hair back. He leant into the touches, closer to the pirate's body, but didn't stop weeping. His mind was a turmoil of emotions, both desperate and overjoyed the same time. So much he had never felt before...
He'd longed for love - requited love - for so many years. Had wanted a wife, children. At least someone to share his life, his lonely nights. Someone who cared for him, supported him through ranks and duty as much as he wanted to support his beloved in all matters. So many years he thought Elizabeth would be the one. He knew that his dreams were crushed the very moment on the parapet when she stood next to Turner.
But he couldn't stop his sentiments. He didn't stop loving her. Not through his fall from grace, not while he drowned his pain in far too much rum, not when they joined Sparrow for the quest for Jones' heart. Not even during his bloody service as Beckett's pawn. He didn't stop loving her before...
Before he died in Jack's arms.
Now, where his life and heart were gone forever, he had found the only person who loved him unconditionally. The one he himself loved without question, despite any of their differences or moral constraints. The one who finally managed to run Elizabeth out of his heart. Who freed him from what seemed like an eternity of despair and solitude.
And James knew that after all he had wreaked, he didn't deserve it...
***
When his last sobs finally ebbed away, he cleared his hoarse throat.
"Jack... I thought I... we... but..." he stammered, avoiding the pirate's eyes. He had to take a moment to gather himself before continuing. "It is impossible. I'm dead. And I was the cause for everything you and countless other people had to suffer from Beckett's deeds. I'm responsible for so many deaths, so much misery, there's no way to ever redeem myself. Even if I run the Dutchman forever, I'll find no absolution at all."
"James..." Sparrow started, but Norrington interrupted him.
"You are alive, you will sail the seas on the Pearl and enjoy your freedom, Jack. I don't want you to long for someone you can't have, who will never be able to share your life. I know that dark abyss. I won't allow you to ever suffer the same way," he explained, his voice steady again. "Go, Jack. Leave me. I can't give you anything but one day every ten years. Only solitude and despair for eternity."
He tried to rise, but was held by strong hands. Sparrow fixed James' gaze, his nearly black eyes bored themselves into uncertain green ones, before he spoke.
"James... Listen, mate. Perhaps ye made the biggest and most momentous mistakes a man can make in one life. But ye paid for them, in more ways I can tell. And I very well know ye're dead 'cause I was the one holding ye when ye died." He paused; a gentle smile grew on his lips when he took James' face in his hands. "But I don't care, Jamie. I bloody well don't care! I love ye."
James eyes went wide, his body shuddered and a fresh tear leaked down his cheekbone. The guilt nearly overwhelmed him when he shoved Sparrow's hands away and grabbed the pirate's shoulders.
"Jack... I killed my own men! Not only the four hundred souls aboard the Dauntless, on the day I decided to hunt you through that hurricane. No, I also killed eight hundred sailors, marines and officers just today, when I ordered the Dutchman's cannons to blow the Endeavour to pieces! And worse, I murdered a friend who served among them! I saw the horror on his face when our ships passed each other, when he recognized that it was I who would kill him. I, who fought and sailed with him for so many years! I've become a monster. You can't love me, Jack! It will destroy you."
He looked down and released the pirate before he continued, his voice nothing more than a whisper. "And I love you too much to allow that..."
James stood and left the still kneeling pirate, grabbed his coat and walked towards the sea. He wanted to run. To fly like the gulls. Anything to get away instantly, as far as possible. The pain was unbearable.
He didn't reach the water.
"Don't ye dare leave me, James Norrington!" Jack yelled and swayed him around. His fingers dug deep into James' upper arms, his eyes seemed like daggers of dark flames. "Don't try to tell me what I can do and what I can't do, savvy?" he hissed through clenched teeth and stepped nearer, stood so close their noses almost touched. "Ye better listen to me, Jamie, 'cause I won't tell ye twice! I don't give a damn if yer dead or killed half the world's inhabitants! I love ye and I bloody well want to show ye how much. Now! Here!"
James tried to move back, and opened his mouth to protest, only to feel Sparrow's lips frantically meet his own, thrusting his tongue deep inside. He couldn't break the kiss, couldn't stop his own tongue slipping into Jack's mouth, starting again that oh-so-wonderful teasing, caressing and battling.
No, he couldn't resist. It felt too right.
***
The sun nearly touched the horizon when James slipped back into his clothes, Jack watching him. Their eyes were still dark, gleaming with love and completion. They didn't talk during the last hours, just stammered words of tenderness and shared deep moans, no need for anything more.
But after he finished dressing, James knelt back down besides his lover, and broke the silence. "Jack... May I ask you a favour?"
Sparrow smiled and cocked an eyebrow, one index finger on his lip for a moment. "A favour, aye? Shall I guess, dear?" His grin widened, but his voice never lost its softness. "You want me to hide and protect the most valuable thing in the world."
No doubt seemed to be there, every inch of the pirate showed that he was absolutely certain about his presumption.
James closed his eyes, he couldn't repress the impending tears. His hand stroked Sparrow's cheek tenderly. "Yes, Jack. But only if you want to... I would understand if..."
"Stop babbling, Jamie. Yer love, yer faith in me is the greatest gift I've ever received. I'm proud of being worth it." He nuzzled deeper in his lover's touch and pressed his lips into James' palm. "I'll keep it safe for ye, darling. As long as ye wish me to."
James sighed and conquered his pirate's mouth for a last, fierce farewell kiss, before he handed him a small black leather bag. "I thought it would be better to keep the chest. No one needs to know I took my heart off the Dutchman..."
Jack nodded, grabbed his coat and shoved the bag into one inside pocket. Then he stood, still naked, and wrapped his arms around Norrington. "Ye know, ye can find me at any time somewhere on the horizon, luv..."
They embraced for some minutes, silently. Finally James gave Jack a peck and let go.
"I have to leave, the sun is nearly down," he said with obvious regret. "Be careful. I don't want to greet you aboard my ship, Jack."
Sparrow produced one of his typical lopsided smiles.
"Don't worry, I intend to stay alive for a very long time! We will meet again, luv. I promise."
"So do I. Goodbye, Jack."
"'Bye, Jamie."
Sparrow followed Norrington with his eyes. Just when the officer stepped into the water, he shouted: "Hey, and don't ye dare to ask for Beckett's service on the Dutchman when ye fetch him!"
James turned one last time and laughed. "Why not? It would be a fitting revenge to see him kneeling and scrubbing my decks, wouldn't it?"
He was still laughing when he disappeared into the sea.
~~~The End~~~
***
Strange. Very strange.
James blinked, didn't want to believe what he saw. And felt.
Water.
He was surrounded by sheer endless spaces of water. But he didn't float, didn't need to hold his breath. He sat against the rail of the submerged Flying Dutchman. But there was no pain, no weakness anymore. Only the vague sense of immaterial bonds. To the ship itself. To the crew.
His crew. He focused his attention across the deck. The barnacled figures stood some yards in front of him. Waiting for his orders.
Two of them were holding the locked chest. Although he couldn't hear anything except the rushing of the sea, he instantly knew that it again contained a living, beating heart.
His own.
James' hand wandered to his chest, automatically fumbled for the wound - and failed.
There was no flesh under his fingers, only cloth. Firm cloth. Remarkably familiar cloth. His eyes darted downwards and widened in astonishment. He wore the same uniform as he did when he was a Commodore of the British Royal Navy. Even his sword, the one that killed him, was at his belt, sheathed in its scabbard. Carefully he touched his face and head, too.
He was clean-shaven, his regular tricorn was in place as well, but without the wig. His natural, shoulder-length hair ended in a neat queue. Well, on this ship he definitely didn't need a further sign of authority like that powdered monstrosity.
But this change of appearance was really unexpected.
Why should whoever was responsible for the Dutchman's forces think of him as the honorable and dignified officer he was in the past? He had not only completely failed to stay that way but instead sold himself to the fiercest menace he'd ever met.
"Don't damn yerself anymore, James Norrington. Ye are a good man and the best choice to fulfill the Dutchman's purpose that could've been found."
The female voice was in his head, his mind. He didn't know her, but an instinctive trust, a vague sense of connection to him and the ship, eased his first discomfort.
"Who are you?" he asked as silently as she had addressed him.
"I am Calypso, goddess of the sea. It was I who charged Davy Jones with the task of ferrying all souls who died at sea to their afterlife. He disappointed and betrayed me when he not only cut out and cursed his heart, but helped the first Brethren Court to bind me into human form. But the worst was that he corrupted his purpose when he abandoned the drifting souls and treated them with cruelty. Now it is yer duty to collect and guide them to the afterlife they have waited for far too long."
Duty. Now that was something he understood perfectly well.
"Then perhaps you're right that I'm worthy of your mercy, milady. Though I lost my path somewhere in the past, devotion to duty was one of my better qualities for most of my life."
He heard a soft chuckle.
"I know that, James Norrington. Ye were the one who served others, not yerself. And ye will be that one again. Ye will not betray yer duty, ye will stay loyal to the souls, will be gentle but strict with them and always care about the ones dear to yer heart. That's why ye will never be lonely, never again rejected."
James held his breath, confusion overwhelmed him.
"What are you talking about? I'm undead, cursed to sail between two worlds. How can I ever find someone to love me? Who would love a man, a ghost, that has no heart and will probably live for centuries, if not forever?"
It seemed like he could hear her smile.
"Trust me, ye already are loved. And ye soon will learn that ye love that person, too. Ye'll have one day ashore every ten years, the first of them today. Use them wisely, as well as the power ye've been given. Ye are allowed to do whatever ye think necessary or makes ye happy as long as ye never abandon yer duty."
James swallowed, his throat seemed to narrow. For a moment he felt dizzy, as a wave of knowledge rushed into his mind.
Oh Lord, he'd never guessed what unimaginable amount of power was part of captaining the Flying Dutchman! It didn't surprise him anymore that no one could match her, especially when led by the cruel ambitions of the late Davy Jones. He made a silent promise to never misuse these forces.
"Be assured, James Norrington, that ye really are worthy of my favour. Just remember one unchangeable rule: It's all a question of choice. Ye can but don't need to ask every soul to stay and join yer crew, but any who declines is to be ferried along to eternal peace. As is any who wants to quit yer service after five years, no matter how long they promised to stay in the first place."
In an instant, he got on his feet. Fortunately, his body obeyed and was as strong as ever. No trembling, no injuries. No physical or mental uncertainty about anything.
"You have my word on this, milady. I won't disappoint either you or the souls."
"I have confidence in ye, Captain Norrington. Now go on yer way, I know ye wish to turn something to good account and ye're needed to do so."
James wanted to thank the goddess, but he sensed that she was already gone. Well, perhaps he would get the chance another time. He had plenty of that now...
Unlike the living souls above him who tried to intercept Beckett.
James clasped his hands behind his back, cleared his throat and addressed the still waiting crew.
"All hands on stations, man the guns and prepare to emerge."
***
Breaking through the surface into bright sunlight was a breathtaking experience. James stood on the quarterdeck near the helm, as he always did when he was a commanding Navy officer. But he felt very different from those long past times. If there was no urgent task he had to take care of he would allow himself to enjoy the ride, something he could never do while performing his naval service. But now wasn't the opportune moment, as Jack would probably say.
Jack...
James hoped that he, Elizabeth and Turner had escaped the mess on the Dutchman before the ship submerged. He didn't want to ferry their souls. Especially not Jack's. He still felt the pirate's lips on his forehead, heard the soft farewell he'd bidden him.
Jamie-luv.
No one had ever called him Jamie, not even in his childhood. He also couldn't remember anyone who offered him such tender comfort as Jack did when he died. The pirate's sad but encouraging and fond smile was James' last sight, when his mortal existence ended.
And the most precious gift he had received in his life.
A soft smile grew on his own face. There could be only one reason for the pirate's obvious care about himself and his own feelings for Jack...
Calypso had told him he was already loved.
She knew. Now he knew that she was right. And that he had indeed started to return this unexpected love, as she had said. That he longed to see Jack, talk with him. Touch him...
Damn. Bloody bad time to muse about love!
James took a deep breath, ordered himself to stop any distracting thoughts, and surveyed the suspiciously calm sea.
Both fleets were still waiting, only the Endeavour and the Pearl were heading towards each other. So he didn't waste precious time below waters. Very well.
He flinched when something suddenly cracked from the Dutchman's hull. There was another crack, and all at once the whole ship seemed to shudder. James gasped while he watched not only the cursed vessel but also his crew shedding their rotten appearances. The sails changed into white ones, the deformed creatures...
Well, they became men, lost all the barnacles and sea attributes as quickly as the ship. And a beautiful ship she was, with silver and gold ornaments as well as clean decks, neat rigging and a polished hull.
James shook his head to banish his feelings of admiration. No time for this at present. He pressed his lips together and swallowed. There was no other choice to defeat the company's fleet than making an example of killing Beckett. He had to unite with the Pearl and engage the Endeavour, this proud British three-decked ship of the line.
That would probably cost the lives of some hundreds of his former comrades.
Including one of his closest friends from Port Royal.
James clenched his jaw and straightened his back. He hated what he had to do. But he would do it nonetheless. Though it was long ago - strictly speaking, in another life - he'd sworn to protect every human being threatened by injustice and undeserved harm.
He'd failed to keep his oath many times.
He wouldn't fail today.
***
Both, the Flying Dutchman and the Black Pearl pivoted simultaneously towards the Endeavour. James smiled as soon as he recognized Jack on the black ship's quarterdeck. Of course he survived and returned to his precious lady, how could James ever think he wouldn't?
His gaze, sharpened by his new powers, wandered to the company's flagship.
Beckett seemed frozen, his eyes were unnaturally wide and somewhat helpless, his lips moved constantly. Of course, he never suspected the Dutchman to turn against him...
Theodore Groves stood beside the Lord, apparently asking for orders.
Orders...
They were right beside the Endeavour's forecastle, had just reached the best position for attack. James heard shouting from the Pearl and the roar of her cannons. For a second he closed his eyes, then focused on his crew and lifted his chin.
"Fire!" he bellowed.
It was a horrible disaster for Beckett. His opponents centered him, blew his ship to pieces through constant broadsides without any resistance. No single shot was fired by any of the three-decker's guns while the ship was crushed between the Dutchman's and Pearl's united powers.
James saw and actually felt every single death aboard the Endeavour. He didn't flinch or avoid looking at the terrible destruction, but though his heart was below decks, in his cabin, it hurt far more than ever before.
Those he just killed were his men, if only for a short time. Good men, loyal and brave. Their only sin was serving a man they shouldn't.
As was his own until the day before yesterday.
When the ship's quarterdecks nearly reached the same level, his eyes met Captain Groves', saw them widen in surprise - and horror. James forced the upcoming lump back down his throat. A single tear rolled down his cheek. "I'm sorry, Theo," he whispered.
He watched his desperate friend jumping into the sea, followed by others. Maybe they would get away. Oh, he so much hoped they would!
When his ship passed the wreck, still firing, James turned to continue observing. Beckett walked down the crashing staircase, untouched by and seemingly unaware of the millions of splinters dashing around him. Just as he stepped onto the deck, a giant explosion tore the whole ship apart.
While it start to sink, the Lord's corpse hurtled through the air until it hit the already drifting flag of the EIC.
James cocked an eyebrow.
Now, that was a fitting end as well as a fitting place for Lord Cutler Beckett and his voracious ambitions...
The remaining fleet, although they greatly outnumbered the pirates, turned tail. Certainly they wouldn't dare engage their former ally, for which James was more than thankful.
He surveyed the now calm surface. Not a single man among the wretched debris. No survivors. More than eight hundred sailors and marines lost. Killed by himself. And he would meet every single soul aboard the Dutchman ferrying them to their afterlives.
James gritted his teeth. He would apologise. To all of them. Especially Theo. Even though he was sure that his friend must hate him, and would never forgive him for this slaughter.
Well, that made two of them...
***
A short time later a group of visitors from the Pearl boarded over the gangplank. Two of them appeared uneasy and uncomfortable.
Elizabeth and Turner shared looks he couldn't read, but - amazingly - wasn't interested in. Jack grinned the same wicked way as always, except his eyes held a new sparkle and a softness James knew was for him alone. Their companion...
James knitted his brows.
He'd never met that older pirate with the worn black hat, of that he was certain. Maybe he was one of the pirate lords?
He cleared his throat and addressed his guests. "Welcome aboard the Flying Dutchman. At least for the moment. This is no place for living people."
Will Turner rolled his eyes and stepped forward. Elizabeth prodded him and hissed: "Don't. Just bid your thanks and ask him!"
Turner looked down and clenched his jaw as well as his fists before he approached James. "I owe you thanks, Norrington," he said in a cold voice, "both for Elizabeth's rescue and my own."
James sighed inwardly and clasped his hands behind his back. Some things never changed. Including a rash, blacksmith-turned-pirate whelp who tended to forget his place. But he would rather ignore than bother with the lack of addressing him as 'Captain'. After all, James wasn't Jack...
"You don't have to thank me for saving your lives, Mr. Turner. It was my duty to provide Elizabeth's happiness, which is inevitably attached to your well-being."
Funny, it didn't hurt anymore to say that... Maybe cutting out his heart was actually the cure he needed?
No. His feelings for Jack hadn't altered nor lessened. He exchanged a look with Sparrow. Still the same gentleness there that he saw prior his death.
Again Elizabeth seemed to urge Turner, whispered something in his ear. But he just glowered at her and spat: "I know what I promised. But I won't beg him for it, even if my soul was about to be doomed. Don't expect me to prostrate myself before that traitorous bastard! Nothing of the last months would have happened if he hadn't surrendered the heart to Beckett!"
Jack's annoyed expression mirrored James' feelings, but the pirate stood silent. A miracle, James thought.
"Then I will do it myself," Elizabeth stated and turned to her first fiancé.
Just then the strange pirate touched her shoulder and said: "Missus Turner... May I suggest..."
Mrs. Turner? When did they get married? James masked his amazement behind his usual stern façade.
"No, Captain Barbossa, you may not," she responded, shoved his hand away and focused on Norrington.
James barely succeeded in keeping his stiff expression. Barbossa? The cursed pirate Jack killed at Isla de Muerta? Now that was a nasty surprise. Seemed that death wasn't very effective of late. At least not among the pirates.
"James... Will's father is one of your crew. Will promised to free him."
So that's why they both came aboard in the first place. Of course. She never would really care about any other creature than her dearly beloved and herself, except the two dead fathers...
James noticed a sailor who smiled hopefully at the couple - and recognized the figure as the one who stabbed him after he freed Elizabeth. Why did that not surprise him in the least? Too rash, your name is Turner...
"You, sailor. Are you William Turner senior?" he asked.
"Aye, Captain. Bootstrap Bill Turner, at your service..." The man avoided eye contact, was shy and obviously frightened. James couldn't blame him after all Davy Jones did to terrorize his own cursed crew.
Elizabeth stepped closer and addressed him once more. "I know he hurt you badly, James. But he wasn't himself then, he was already a part of the ship, didn't know what..."
"What side he chose?" James interrupted her. "I know. Don't argue with me about wrong decisions, I made enough of them in my former life. One was to trust you with my heart."
Astonishment grew on many faces. Except Sparrow's, who coughed to hide a grin, and Will Turner. The young man put his arm around his wife's shoulder, pure hatred in his eyes. "Don't you dare to insult my wife, Norrington!" he spat.
James shook his head. He would never learn...
"It was not meant as an insult, Mr. Turner, it's simply the truth. I did love Elizabeth and she didn't return my sentiments, ergo my proposal to her was a wrong decision. But as I don't love her now, it's not necessary to talk about it."
Turner's mouth opened and shut a few times, like a stranded fish gasping for air.
James' face stayed unmoved while Elizabeth gaped at him, clutching Turner's arm to prevent another rash action.
"You... you stopped loving me?" she stuttered. "Why?"
"Because I did love a headstrong but spirited and very fine young woman I used to know back in Port Royal and at Isla Cruces, even the proud fighter for justice I captured with the Empress. But I do not love the pirate king."
Jack snickered openly, Barbossa cocked his eyebrows while the Turners simply stared at James, apparently dumbfounded. Which was fine, as he didn't want to hear more of their babbling. Time to dismiss them...
"As for your request..."
He paused, saw Elizabeth flinching about this word, and suppressed a smug smile. The growing sparkle in Jack's eyes made James himself more comfortable as he continued. "I would greatly appreciate all members of the Turner family to leave my ship. Now."
They looked at each other, then Elizabeth asked: "What do you claim for Bootstrap's release?"
Now that hurt more than any rejection, any distress she put him through. James' expression instantly became aloof. He straightened his back.
"You don't know me." The truth of it dawned on him even as he spoke the words, his grief hidden behind his cold voice. "Nine years we socialized with each other, called ourselves friends, I even died for your happiness! And you ask me all the same if I demand a reward for the release of your father-in-law?" He shook his head, lips pressed together, before he continued. "You don't know anything about my nature. You didn't even try to. No, there isn't any condition. Take it as a wedding gift."
She jerked back from him, her eyes wide. Jack coughed again, much louder than the first time. But not loud enough to mute his laughter. Barbossa wrinkled his nose and shook his head at Sparrow, who attempted to shoo him away.
When Elizabeth tried to speak, James interrupted her again with a raised hand. "Oh, and by the way... I give you my word that no one of you three will ever be asked if you fear death as long as this ship and its duty is under my command. I suggest you die ashore or at peace. Farewell, Mrs. Turner."
***
An awkward silence descended, following the Turners' departure; only a few crew's feet scrabbled the deck. Once he was sure they were outside earshot, James cleared his throat and locked eyes with Barbossa.
"Excuse me for not being pleased to see you, Captain Barbossa. What do you want?"
Jack's face, greatly amused just seconds ago, became serious, and his hands started to wave in his distinctive way.
"Now that's my turn to explain, dear Commodore." He carefully eyed the uniform, hat and sword. "Ye are Commodore, aren't ye?"
James sighed. "I command only one ship, so the correct form to address me is the same as for you, Captain Sparrow. And I asked Captain Barbossa what he wants, not you!"
"But..."
"Jack! Keep silent," James barked, but added a soft "Please..."
The pirate's pout was remarkable, nearly matched the one James' long deceased aunt used to show not less than a dozen times each day. He suppressed a chuckle and turned towards Barbossa.
"Captain?"
"Oh, never mind, Captain Norrington. Just wanna bid the honors and ask for yer good will," Barbossa snarled.
James cocked one eyebrow. Honors? Good will? Unthinkable to hear such words from the reckless pirate Barbossa used to be.
"I don't desire anything bidden by you, least of all something including the word 'honor'," he replied in a cold, low tone. "And be assured that although we had to unite to defeat Beckett, I don't see any common ground between us. Leave."
"James, please listen to me," Jack said and stepped nearer. "Hector and I, we have a problem and need yer help to solve it."
Norrington bit his lip. He couldn't deny Jack anything. Not only because he loved him, but also for what he owed him.
"I see. So, what is it?"
It was Barbossa who answered.
"As a matter of fact, we both claim the Pearl to be ours. Since we worked out our former..." He hesitated.
"Your former disrespect for Jack's rights?" James snapped.
Sparrow grinned again and performed his little bow. "Think that's it, luv," he agreed.
"Let's say, I wouldn't kill him but won't hesitate to leave him behind," Barbossa corrected with a smirk.
Bastard.
Maybe he supported the right side; fought his part to win the battle. But James would never like or trust this man.
They stood silently for a while, each observing the other while musing over their trouble. Finally, James got an idea. He wasn't really pleased about it, but he wouldn't disappoint Jack's confidence.
"Captain Barbossa, I propose a bargain. You'll leave the Black Pearl and promise to never again try to take her away from Jack. In return you name a ship... any ship already gone. I'll raise and repair it and hand it over to you."
Both pirates stared at him in surprise. Jack was the first to recover.
"But... James. Any ship? Even one that's faster than my lady?"
Barbossa grinned, clearly satisfied. "Aye, that sounds fair. Any ship already gone, no matter how long, no matter how big or how much destroyed, for leaving the Pearl and Jack be. So we have an accord?"
"We have, Captain Barbossa. But I suggest you choose wisely. As much as I'd understand your desire to captain a big ship, like the Endeavour, for example, don't forget that you would need at least five hundred men to work her properly in a battle. I daresay that would be expensive to maintain. Not to mention that smaller ships are more manoeuvrable..."
Sparrow chuckled while James allowed one corner of his mouth to twitch upwards a little. Barbossa made a face. Seemed he didn't expect Norrington to guess his target.
"Could've told ye, mate," Jack stated. "He's a clever one, my Commodore."
"So it would seem," James remarked dryly. "Captain Barbossa, if you like the Company's or Navy's ships that much, may I suggest the Interceptor? She's nearly as fast as the Pearl, just a little smaller, and easy to crew. Trust me, I was quite fond of her when she was under my command."
Jack's eyes widened, his lips moved silently while he fixed Norrington's gaze. James' smirk grew into a soft smile. "Yes, Jack. I can endure her sailing under a pirate flag. I'm not Navy anymore. In fact, I'm dead. And it is a very small price for your happiness aboard your Pearl."
Barbossa cocked one eyebrow, his eyes flitting back and forth between the men, while Jack's expression gentled.
"Jamie..." Sparrow started, but was interrupted.
"Seems to me ye've taken a liking to each other, did ye?" Barbossa said. "Of course that doesn't bother me as long as ye don't turn yer joined forces against me."
James' humourless smile didn't reach his eyes.
"The Flying Dutchman will no longer harm other ships, Captain Barbossa. Not if we aren't first attacked ourselves. Under my command this vessel will serve its original purpose of ferrying souls. No more, no less," he stated.
"Then I accept the Interceptor, Captain Norrington. When will we meet? At sunset? Or dawn?" Barbossa extended his hand.
James hesitated a moment before he took the pirate's hand as briefly as possible, just to settle the deal. Then he explained: "Neither, Captain Barbossa. The wreck is not in the vicinity and is blown to pieces. My crew and I will need at least a week to raise and restore her."
Jack chuckled, but Barbossa glared at Norrington with open rage.
"A week? That's ridiculous!" His eyes shot daggers. "Don't try to double-cross me, lad, ye wouldn't like the consequences!"
Jack rolled his eyes and waved his hands. "Now, now Hector... calm down. I'm sure James never thought of betraying ye, aye?"
"Of course I won't. But having some supernatural powers doesn't mean I'm a magician," James said. "Besides, we didn't mention the technical details of raising sunken ships, did we?"
Now it was Barbossa who rolled his eyes, perhaps remembering that he himself was an expert in bargaining without specifying details...
James nodded and continued. "Well, as this is settled I suggest you move to Shipwreck Cove and spend the waiting period picking up a crew. Farewell, Captain Barbossa. And please do me one last favor..."
"Aye, I know" Barbossa snarled with a smirk. "Dying at peace or ashore, for ye never will allow me to stay aboard the Dutchman. Don't worry, Navy. I would rather hang from the gallows than serve under yer command!"
Two identical smiles grew on Jack's and James' lips when Barbossa turned and left the ship.
When their eyes met, none of them spoke for a long while. Finally James cleared his suddenly very dry throat and asked: "Captain Sparrow, would you please meet me ashore? There are several things I want to talk about in a more... private atmosphere."
The pirate nodded, open joy on his face. "It'll be my honor, Captain Norrington."
***
James was sitting upon a rock at the beach, wearing only shirt, breeches and boots. His coat lay folded besides him. When Jack jumped off his skiff and pulled it out of the water, he stood up and waited for the approaching pirate. His breathing became faster and he sensed an odd rush inside though there was no heart to speed up his pulse.
"What took you so long, Jack?" James asked with a hint of nervousness. "Trouble with that broken compass of yours?"
"Nay, just not accustomed to rowing long ways by my onesies, after the Locker and such... Unfortunately, I'm not able to just move through water like ye, mate," Jack replied.
The pirate grinned and tilted his head, looked at him in a charming and gentle way nobody else had ever done. Beautiful. James felt like fire and melted honey simultaneously. He moved without thought, his arms wrapped around Sparrow and his lips found Jack's.
"Want this... You... So much..." he whispered into the pirate's mouth, slipped his tongue through now open barriers of white and golden teeth. Jack's tongue invaded his own mouth, joined his for a desperate dancing duel.
James never felt so complete, never experienced any comparable intensity. His skin, his whole body seemed to burn. Tears ran down his cheek. Oh God... He suddenly broke away from Jack, sank to his knees, and buried his face in both hands.
"Jamie... What's wrong, luv?" He heard Jack's anxious voice.
A hand grabbed his shoulder, another stroked his head, pushed strands of loose hair back. He leant into the touches, closer to the pirate's body, but didn't stop weeping. His mind was a turmoil of emotions, both desperate and overjoyed the same time. So much he had never felt before...
He'd longed for love - requited love - for so many years. Had wanted a wife, children. At least someone to share his life, his lonely nights. Someone who cared for him, supported him through ranks and duty as much as he wanted to support his beloved in all matters. So many years he thought Elizabeth would be the one. He knew that his dreams were crushed the very moment on the parapet when she stood next to Turner.
But he couldn't stop his sentiments. He didn't stop loving her. Not through his fall from grace, not while he drowned his pain in far too much rum, not when they joined Sparrow for the quest for Jones' heart. Not even during his bloody service as Beckett's pawn. He didn't stop loving her before...
Before he died in Jack's arms.
Now, where his life and heart were gone forever, he had found the only person who loved him unconditionally. The one he himself loved without question, despite any of their differences or moral constraints. The one who finally managed to run Elizabeth out of his heart. Who freed him from what seemed like an eternity of despair and solitude.
And James knew that after all he had wreaked, he didn't deserve it...
***
When his last sobs finally ebbed away, he cleared his hoarse throat.
"Jack... I thought I... we... but..." he stammered, avoiding the pirate's eyes. He had to take a moment to gather himself before continuing. "It is impossible. I'm dead. And I was the cause for everything you and countless other people had to suffer from Beckett's deeds. I'm responsible for so many deaths, so much misery, there's no way to ever redeem myself. Even if I run the Dutchman forever, I'll find no absolution at all."
"James..." Sparrow started, but Norrington interrupted him.
"You are alive, you will sail the seas on the Pearl and enjoy your freedom, Jack. I don't want you to long for someone you can't have, who will never be able to share your life. I know that dark abyss. I won't allow you to ever suffer the same way," he explained, his voice steady again. "Go, Jack. Leave me. I can't give you anything but one day every ten years. Only solitude and despair for eternity."
He tried to rise, but was held by strong hands. Sparrow fixed James' gaze, his nearly black eyes bored themselves into uncertain green ones, before he spoke.
"James... Listen, mate. Perhaps ye made the biggest and most momentous mistakes a man can make in one life. But ye paid for them, in more ways I can tell. And I very well know ye're dead 'cause I was the one holding ye when ye died." He paused; a gentle smile grew on his lips when he took James' face in his hands. "But I don't care, Jamie. I bloody well don't care! I love ye."
James eyes went wide, his body shuddered and a fresh tear leaked down his cheekbone. The guilt nearly overwhelmed him when he shoved Sparrow's hands away and grabbed the pirate's shoulders.
"Jack... I killed my own men! Not only the four hundred souls aboard the Dauntless, on the day I decided to hunt you through that hurricane. No, I also killed eight hundred sailors, marines and officers just today, when I ordered the Dutchman's cannons to blow the Endeavour to pieces! And worse, I murdered a friend who served among them! I saw the horror on his face when our ships passed each other, when he recognized that it was I who would kill him. I, who fought and sailed with him for so many years! I've become a monster. You can't love me, Jack! It will destroy you."
He looked down and released the pirate before he continued, his voice nothing more than a whisper. "And I love you too much to allow that..."
James stood and left the still kneeling pirate, grabbed his coat and walked towards the sea. He wanted to run. To fly like the gulls. Anything to get away instantly, as far as possible. The pain was unbearable.
He didn't reach the water.
"Don't ye dare leave me, James Norrington!" Jack yelled and swayed him around. His fingers dug deep into James' upper arms, his eyes seemed like daggers of dark flames. "Don't try to tell me what I can do and what I can't do, savvy?" he hissed through clenched teeth and stepped nearer, stood so close their noses almost touched. "Ye better listen to me, Jamie, 'cause I won't tell ye twice! I don't give a damn if yer dead or killed half the world's inhabitants! I love ye and I bloody well want to show ye how much. Now! Here!"
James tried to move back, and opened his mouth to protest, only to feel Sparrow's lips frantically meet his own, thrusting his tongue deep inside. He couldn't break the kiss, couldn't stop his own tongue slipping into Jack's mouth, starting again that oh-so-wonderful teasing, caressing and battling.
No, he couldn't resist. It felt too right.
***
The sun nearly touched the horizon when James slipped back into his clothes, Jack watching him. Their eyes were still dark, gleaming with love and completion. They didn't talk during the last hours, just stammered words of tenderness and shared deep moans, no need for anything more.
But after he finished dressing, James knelt back down besides his lover, and broke the silence. "Jack... May I ask you a favour?"
Sparrow smiled and cocked an eyebrow, one index finger on his lip for a moment. "A favour, aye? Shall I guess, dear?" His grin widened, but his voice never lost its softness. "You want me to hide and protect the most valuable thing in the world."
No doubt seemed to be there, every inch of the pirate showed that he was absolutely certain about his presumption.
James closed his eyes, he couldn't repress the impending tears. His hand stroked Sparrow's cheek tenderly. "Yes, Jack. But only if you want to... I would understand if..."
"Stop babbling, Jamie. Yer love, yer faith in me is the greatest gift I've ever received. I'm proud of being worth it." He nuzzled deeper in his lover's touch and pressed his lips into James' palm. "I'll keep it safe for ye, darling. As long as ye wish me to."
James sighed and conquered his pirate's mouth for a last, fierce farewell kiss, before he handed him a small black leather bag. "I thought it would be better to keep the chest. No one needs to know I took my heart off the Dutchman..."
Jack nodded, grabbed his coat and shoved the bag into one inside pocket. Then he stood, still naked, and wrapped his arms around Norrington. "Ye know, ye can find me at any time somewhere on the horizon, luv..."
They embraced for some minutes, silently. Finally James gave Jack a peck and let go.
"I have to leave, the sun is nearly down," he said with obvious regret. "Be careful. I don't want to greet you aboard my ship, Jack."
Sparrow produced one of his typical lopsided smiles.
"Don't worry, I intend to stay alive for a very long time! We will meet again, luv. I promise."
"So do I. Goodbye, Jack."
"'Bye, Jamie."
Sparrow followed Norrington with his eyes. Just when the officer stepped into the water, he shouted: "Hey, and don't ye dare to ask for Beckett's service on the Dutchman when ye fetch him!"
James turned one last time and laughed. "Why not? It would be a fitting revenge to see him kneeling and scrubbing my decks, wouldn't it?"
He was still laughing when he disappeared into the sea.
~~~The End~~~