scourgeofpiracy | (no subject)

(no subject)

Admiral Norrington has been cloistered in his cabin since Lord Beckett gave him back his sword. He's had a lot of thinking to do. But a time comes when a man's thoughts start going round in circles, and what he needs is fresh air.

So he heads out onto the deck, to watch the waves for a while.

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"If the Dutchman had found her", Norrington says with as much confidence as he can muster, "don't you think we'd know it?"

Beckett isn't the kind to resist gloating.

"We'd know, but would it be too late?"

He sighs, leaning over the railing and staring out into the dark water.

"Phantom ships, monsters from the deep... I rather liked the old days when cut-throat pirates were all one had to worry about."

Norrington smiles faintly, with no humour in it.

"I can appreciate that feeling."

"Well. I think I shall turn in in a moment."

He doesn't leave the railing quite yet, though. He's pondering the sea and the stars, and whether Elizabeth is looking up at the same moon as he.

"As you like, sir." He turns to look at the governor, compassionately. "And have a good night."

"You too, James, you too."

He turns from the railing, his back now to the sea.

"And James? If you see her, no matter where, or in what situation, will you do your utmost to keep her from harm? Please?"

"Whatever I can do", he promises without hesitation, and he means it. "You know... she asked the same for you."

"Did she?" His smile brightens. "Hopefully, I can hold my own and get back to England without aid. But it's good to know. Take care, Admiral. I'll see you tomorrow."

He pats the younger man's shoulder as he leaves.

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