John Looples' Revenge
Copyright by Shane Dismal 2011
Smashwords Edition
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Chapter 1
Boom! The cannons roared as they were shot upon the lonely village of Dresda. Women and children tried to flee away while the Men grabbed any weapons they could and headed for the docks. The magnificent brigantine stood true and strong as its crew shot cannonball after cannonball onto the surprised citizens. As the ship got closer to the shore the Men awaiting them could see the devastating symbol that all people fear. A tattered, blood red flag with the picture of a dark and eerie crescent moon that shined at the top of the massive ship. Some of the townspeople started firing off guns just hoping that they would be left alone. But to their dismay the terrifying brigantine didn't stop until it touched the white-sanded shore of Dresda. There was a short moment of silence. Then slowly but surely rope laddersdescended from the sides of the ships and a glorious roar filled the night. The townspeople panicked and jolted for safety back towards the women and children. In what seemed like an instant a crew of 70 blood thirsty pirates stampeded towards the fleeing Men. With just cutlasses at their sides the pirates stormed through the town slaughtering all the cowering Men. They broke down doors and windows and plundered whatever they could carry. Houses were torched to the ground as the pirates moved through
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the town closer and closer to where the other citizens were hiding out. After just less than an hour they had destroyed the
town and started surrounding the shelter where all the women and children had fled to. A single man opened the hatch to the lower safe house. He climbed out and stood his ground.
“I refuse to let you brutes hurt these people!” He yelled out. His only answer was a crowd of laughs and taunts from the pirate crew. However, their fun was cut short as the crowd shifted in two and only mumbles were heard. As the last of the crew shifted and opened a path a large crooked figure appeared. He had a blue tricorne hat and a matching jacket with what looked like golden buttons. His pants were white slacks and he wore large black boots with gold buckles. His soot black, curly beard came down over to just above his chest.
“What do we have here?” He chuckled. “A hero? Don't you know heroes only end up dead!” He smirked at the man.
“W-well, I am not gonna let you hurt these people!” The Man boasted.
“Is that so? How do you plan on stopping 70 men by yourself? “ The Large Pirate asked.
“Like This!” The man pulled out two flintlock pistols and shot them off straight ahead of him. One of the shots just
barely whizzed by the Large Pirate and struck a crew member in
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the forehead. The other bullet hit a crew member to the left of the Large Pirate in the arm. For a moment the crew members
blankly stared at him. Then all at once they took out their swords and charged at the man. He was completely slaughtered and torn limb from limb for taking the life of one of their members. The Large Pirate stood in the same place and just showed off an evil grin.
“Now boys! Lets get the rest of them! Shawny go and set up the fuses!” The Large Pirate shouted.
“Aye Captain!” Shawny and several other crew members yelled back. Shawny took out a long fuse out of his pants and attached it to a large box that another member carried that was filled with gunpowder. They placed the box a few feet away from the opening of the shelter and then lit it with a torch.
“After it goes off! Kill them all!” The Captain yelled. The crew roared in excitement and readied themselves for more. A huge explosion went off followed by high pitched screams and the crew members' howls. They climbed down into the shelter from the open hatch and the hole the explosion made. All awhile the Captain stood calm above ground listening to the sounds of the raid. From his facial expressions it seemed like it soothed him in a way that couldn't be described.
“That's all of them Captain!” Shawny yelled up after just a
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few minutes.
“Good! Now take what ye can and lets head back to the ship!”
The captain ordered.
“Aye!” The crew members answered. They went to work searching the pockets of the deceased taking whatever they find of value. With a blistering holler the crew walked back to the ship through the newly created ruins of Dresda.
Chapter 2
“Hey did you hear about Dresda?” Simon asked. He had short blonde hair and was very well built for a bartender.
“No. What happened?” One of his customers asked. He had long dark hair and a sharp goatee. His hands were rough and his shoulders broad.
“The Blood Moon Crew left it in ruins. They didn't leave a single soul behind.” Simon answered.
“Well then how do you know about it?” The customer asked. Simon poured a drink for another customer and continued.
“The Navy just found it on one of their merchant runs. They were in complete shock when they saw that almost nothing was left.” Simon responded.
“Yea. Well how did they know it's the Blood Moon Crew?” The customer asked again.
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“Well the other day was a Blood Moon wasn't it? The Navy even said it looked like it was done by them. What other Pirate crew is as merciless as them?” Simon told him.
“There was a Blood Moon the other day? I didn't see it.” The
customer answered.
“You didn't see that Crescent Moon in the night sky? It gives me the shivers every time I see it.” Simon shivered just thinking about it. A man with a brown tattered shirt and tan ripped pants stood up.
“I saw it. It's the scariest night of the month. You never know if your town will be the next. At least they only ever attack on Blood Moons. Otherwise we would be in trouble.” Theman said.
“What do you think they do until their next pillage?” The customer asked.
“Well, they go around sinking Navy ships and whoever else is unlucky enough to sail too close.” The man answered. The customer put down a few silver coins, nodded to Simon and walked out. There was a short silence.
“That man who just walked out.” Simon paused. “His brother lived in Trent. They got attacked by The Blood Moon Crew four months ago. He still doesn't like talking about it but it's his right to know who they are attacking so I bring it up. I think
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it helps him sometimes.” Simon told the man.
“Who is he anyways?” the man asked.
“Well first of all who are you?” Simon asked pouring another drink.
“I'm Tod Snare.” He answered
“Well I'm Simon nice to meet you. What are you doing here in Gohl. I haven't seen you before.” Simon answered.
“I'm just here for a some business for my little family owned shipping company.” Tod told him.
“Oh that's nice. A lot of businesses here could use your help. The Navy over prices their shipping. By the way that guy there was John Looples. He is the best blacksmith around. He makes swords for the Navy when they come through to pick up supplies.” Simon explained.
“Interesting. Well thanks.” Tod went up to the bar put down a dozen silver coins and walked out. Simon stared blankly at the coins but happily picked them up and put them into his pocket.
Tod walked down the street until he noticed an old man resting on his porch. He walked up to the steps and asked politely.
“Can you point me to the town's Blacksmith please.”
“Why yes he is just six houses down that way” The old man smiles and points to the right of Tod.
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“Thank you very much.” Tod smiled and started walking towards the Blacksmith. He knew he was there when he saw a wooden sign that had a hammer carved into it. Tod knocked on the door and waited for a response.
“I'm not done with the order yet come back in a few hours.” John answered.
“I'm not here for an order I want to ask you something.” Tod told him. John stopped working and walked towards the door.
“Who is it?” He asked
“My name is Tod. I'm the man from the bar.” Tod said. John opened the door and look Tod up and down. Then he nodded and pointed him inside.
“What do you need to ask Tod?” John asked.
“Simon told me about your brother. I was just wondering if you ever planned to do anything about it.” Tod asked.
“I wish I could The Blood Moon Crew are just so dangerous. There isn't even a point in trying.” John answered back.
“Well what if there was a chance?” Tod asked.
“If there was a chance.” John thought to himself for a second and finally said. “Definitely.”
“Good. I am offering you the chance now.” Tod told him.
“What?” John asked confused.
“Join my Pirate crew and together lets bring down The Blood
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Moon Crew. You can supply the swords and a plus one addition to my crew.” Tod smiled.
“Your joking right. Why would I want to become what I hate?” John told Tod.
“Well if you change your mind I'll be here for about another month. I'm living with a nice old lady named Katherine just a few houses away.” Tod then nodded to John and set a bag full of silver coins on a table.
“There
is a lot more where that came from.” And at that
Tod left.
Chapter 3
Cannonballs fell from the sky as the Blood Moon Crew moves toward the shore. The people of the town run frantically. Some trying to escape by Sloops or rowboats and some run towards the forest hoping they can hide and escape. The Crescent moon fills up the night sky with light as millions of stars glisten around it. Simon tries to gather all of his money in a bag before his bar is destroyed. John busts through the down and explosions erupt around him.
“That was close! Simon what are you doing we need to escape! I have a Sloop just a few miles down the coast. We can escape.” John says while taking deep breaths of air.
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“I just wanted to get all of my money! Now we can go.” Simon answered back.
“You greedy basta-” A cannonball came blistering through the roof and just crashed just next to John. He is flown across the room and hits the bar.
“John!” Simon yells as he tries to get him to wake up. Simon
drops his bag of coins and puts John over his shoulders.
“Let's get out of here!” Simon yelled. He runs as fast as he can with John on his shoulders towards John's Sloop. A loud yell comes from the shore.
“Go Get Them!” Someone yells and the crew rushes for the town.
“You need to wake up! We need to run!” Simon yells. He puts down John and slaps him in the face a few times.
“Come on! I know you won't quit on me like this!” He yells again. John opens his eyes a little and puts his hand to his head.
“I don't feel so good” He smiles at Simon.
“No Time! Lets go!” Simon roars. Simon helps John to his feet and they start running away.
“I can see the Sloop!” John exclaims.
“Me too! We are gonna make it!” Simon answered happily. Just as they thought they were going to escape from The Blood Moon
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Crew a loud pop went off. Simon stopped in his tracks and cried out.
“No! Simon!” John yelled. He looks up to see that a pirate with a red bandana and a red ripped up shirt is running towards him with a sword.
“How dare you!” John cries out. “I'll kill you!” The Pirate
smirks as he draws his sword towards John. Another loud pop goes off and John shuts his eyes.
“Hurry! Come with me! Grab his pistol and sword too.” A familiar voice says. John opens his eyes and looks over to Tod Snare. John sighs with relief but quickly does as he says. They run to the Sloop and John gets aboard.
“No it's too big for two people!” Tod tells John.
“Then what are we supposed to use?” John asked nervously. Tod runs down the coast for a few more minutes before he yells out.
“This way hurry!” And John runs after him. Tod smiles and boards a small rowboat. He throws an oar at John.
“Get in we don't have much time!” Tod orders him. “Start rowing!” Tod orders again after he pushes the rowboat off of the shore. Safely but surely they escape from the Blood Moon Crew's and start rowing into the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Chapter 4
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“Where are we going?” John asked after about an hour.
“You will see soon enough” Tod answered mysteriously. And soon enough John saw.
“You know what. I think I've changed my mind.” John said after seeing the Schooner approach them.
Tod smiled. “Good.” The Schooner was blazing fast and made it to their rowboat from the horizon in no time. Once the
Schooner got close to the rowboat a rope ladder was dropped down to Tod.
“Come Aboard Captain!” A man yelled from atop the vessel.
“You can go first.” Tod said as he gestured John to climb the rope. John climbed up the rope and Tod followed. When they got aboard they all cheered and immediately were drinking rum and eating to their hearts desired.
“Why are they all celebrating?” John asked.
“Well, we have learned the Blood Moon Crews next victim.” Tod answered with a big grin.
“What do you mean? How?” John asked confused.
“My crew ported in Gohl about three months ago. People here tend to have a lot of information from outside sources. So we asked around about the Blood Moon Crew and got a lead. A woman by the name of Mary told us that her fiance was working a job out in Angelos as a carpenter when the town got attacked. After
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that we used the other information we gathered about them and predicted they would hit Cardel which is just a little ways away from Trent. We found out we were right and then predicted they were coming here, Gohl. When they didn't show we regrouped and decided to try to follow them because we knew they were in the area. I stayed behind to see what other information came up while they went out and searched. That's when I met you and
Simon and he told me about Trent a few months ago and that's when I figured it out. The Blood Moon Crew attacks the most populated but weak places they can. All of those places have high population but are either very poor or not known for military.” Tod explained.
“Well then why do you want me here?” John asked.
“After I had heard that you lost someone in Trent I couldn't just leave you to the same demise. So I asked you to join me. Then when the attack came I went out looking for you. Luckily I found you when I did.” Tod explained again. John stared into Tod's eyes for a moment and said very sincerely.
“Thank you.”
“Don't worry about it. I just hope you know how to use those swords you make.
“I'm around swords all day. What else am I supposed to do?” John smiled at Tod
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“Good. Your first assignment though is to celebrate!” Tod throws a bottle of rum at John. “Meet some of the crew and enjoy yourself.” Tod smiled and at that he turned cheered loudly and took a swig of his rum disappearing into the crowd. John looked around at the hysterical pirates and smiled. He immediately knew he was going to like being on this boat.
One of the crew members climbed up about half way to the
crow's nest and put his bottle of rum high in the air.
“To Victory!” he yelled. The entire crew yelled out in return and started to sing some song.
“Their singing about the ship. She has been through so much and has never let us down so we constantly thank her.” Tod came up from behind John.
“What's her name?” John asked.
“The Redeemer” Tod eyes glared with passion as he said it.
“She's Beautiful” said John.
“Aye, magnificent.” Tod responded. He looked up at the sky and closed his eyes. “Incredible.” He mumbled to himself. “Can you teach me the song?” John asked.
“The Redeemer, The Redeemer! A savior in our eyes! The only women in our lives! Forever and always! The Redeemer, The Redeemer!” Tod answered.
“That's all they're saying?” John asked again.
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“They're drunk.” Tod smiled. Then John and Tod chanted out over and over again.
“The Redeemer, The Redeemer! A savior in our eyes! The only women in our lives! Forever and always! The Redeemer, The Redeemer!”
The crew joined along and they celebrated until the moon fell out of the sky.
Chapter 5
“Good Morning” Tod greeted John with a splash of water. Surprised with anger John woke up.
“What!?” John yelled out.
“Just an induction to the crew.” Tod grinned at John.
“What's the name of the crew anyways? I haven't seen a flag anywhere either.” John questioned.
“Crews don't have names. The Blood Moon Crew got the name from random gossip and it caught on. And for our flag.” Tod paused. “Every single member of this crew joined for their own personal reasons. A lot are like you. They either didn't have anywhere else to go or wanted to get revenge against the pirates who wronged them in their life. So we don't sail under any one flag but under each of our own.” Tod explained.
“This sure is a weird bunch of pirates.” John said.
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“Well your one of them now so get used to it. And to start off your on cleaning duty.” Tod hands John a dirt mop and a bucket of water. “Start cleaning the top deck.” Tod smiled and wandered back up to the deck. John changed into some clothes he found beside his bed. They were a bit tattered but he wore red slacks and a white and red striped shirt. He also got a nice pair of brown boots that had rusted buckles. After changing John grabbed the cleaning supplies and walked up to the deck. It was a very bright day and the ship was already moving fast. Everyone
was at work either cleaning or tending to the abundance of knots and ropes around the ship. Enthusiastically John got right to work and started mopping the top deck near the wheel.
“Hey matey!” another pirate said nearby who was mopping too. “Welcome aboard The Redeemer!”
“Thanks. It sure is an adventure already.” John smiled at the pirate.
“My name is Kyle but around the ship I'm called Sea Short.”
“Nice to meet you Sea Short. My name is John Looples.” John told Sea Short.
“John Looples, eh?” Sea Short thought for a moment and then spoke. “Well nice to meet you. We will have to think of a nickname for ya. Most of the guys here already have one.” Sea short smiled and then continued to mop the deck.
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“Why are you called Sea Short?” John asked curiously.
“Well, when I first joined about seven months ago. When we had about 30 members and a Sloop. We were attacking this Navy merchant ship. It wasn't much bigger than the Sloop and we had more cannons than they did. We eventually boarded the ship and started fighting but they had a massive crew of about 80. The ship was overcrowded to the extremes but it sure did surprise us. We started to flee but I got shot in the back while trying to cross the plank back over. I fell over and almost drowned.
That's when Tod jumped in after me and carried me back aboard all by himself. I was so close to dying they paid to have a doctor look at me. The doctor said that I was a Sea Short. It's what he calls a person who just barely escapes from the waters but should have died and that has been my name ever since.” Sea Short told John.
“That's incredible Tod seems like an amazing Captain.” John said.
“Aye, one of the best. That's why most people stay here after they have accomplished their goals. I assume Tod already mentioned how everyone here is here for their own reasons. Well a lot of men leave after they accomplish what they came here to do.” Sea Short explained to John.
“Well, Tod saved my life. So the only way I can repay him is
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by staying by him until I return the favor. I guess that's my goal.” John thought to himself for a couple minutes. Then Sea Short broke the silence.
“I hope that's a promise.” Sea short smiled.
“Sea Short!” Tod yelled from the bottom deck. “Your on rigging!”
“Yes Captain!” Sea short shouted back and immediately put away his mop and bucket and went to help out with rigging. Captain Tod nodded to Sea Short and walked up to the top deck.
Chapter 6
“I see you met Sea Short.” Tod said. John didn't notice Tod was there and looked up to him with a smile.
“Yea. He is a really nice guy. Not what I expected from a Pirate.” John answered.
“He is a good man. He has been my first mate since the beginning and hasn't left my side yet.” Tod looked down towards the ground and thought about the first time he met Sea Short.
“It looks like this deck is squeaky clean. Anything else you want me to do?” John asked breaking the strange silence between the two.
“Why don't you talk to Rocket. Learn a little about navigation. I think you'll be a good one.” Tod smiled and then
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walked off without another word. John didn't know a thing about navigating and was even more clueless on why Tod thought he would be good at it. Despite his reasoning he followed orders and approached Rocket.
“Captain Tod told you to come over ere' right?” Rocket asked before John could even open his mouth.
“Yea. He said he thinks I'll be good at it.” John answered him. Rocket was a strange looking guy. He was probably the most pirate looking man there. He had an eye patch over his right eye and a lot of scars on his neck and arms. He was slim but looked a lot stronger than John was. He wore a very dirty white coat
and puffy blue pants.
“Aye. He said the same thing to me when I started out. Captain Tod is right about the strangest things.” Rocket thought to himself for a moment then laughed a spoke again.
“Well, I guess we should start with some tips!”
“Okay, sounds good.” John answered eager to hear what Rocket had to say.
“First things first! Never, and I mean never leave the wheel unattended. Doing just that could doom the entire crew and of course The Redeemer.” Rocket started talking more strictly.
“Okay. I got it what else?” John asked.
“The only other thing I have for you is no rum. Your not
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allowed to get drunk especially when we're about to go into battle. Being a trustworthy navigator plays a huge part in surviving.” Rocket explained seriously.
“No drinking? I guess I can do that.” John answered.
“Good. Now the best way to learn how to maneuver a ship is to try it for yourself.” Rocket steps away from the wheel. “Grab the wheel and start. We aren't going in any one direction right now so I'll keep track of where we are you just get used to The Redeemer.” Rocket explained again. John grabbed the wheel having no clue what to do. First he turned the wheel to the right and then just back to the left.
“That's perfect get a feel for her you're gonna need it when you're up here during a battle.” Rocket told him.
“How do I know if I'm doing this right?” John asked.
“There isn't a way of explaining it but when you are you'll feel it. But for now you're just practicing and getting a feel for it.” Rocket answered back. John continued to sway right to left for what seemed like hours. His hands had splinters from the wooden wheel and he still didn't feel anything. Meanwhile, Rocket is just below at a table looking at a map.
“How are ye doing there?” Rocket asked surprising John.
“Good I guess. I'm really not sure.” John answered.
“Hmm. How long have you been at it?” Rocket asked.
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“About two hours I think.” John answered.
“Give me a minute.” Rocket climbed back down to the room below and came back up with a map and a pencil. He set it on the ground and started writing on it while continuously looking up at the sky.
“Incredible.” Rocket eventually said.
“What?” John asked nervously.
“You stayed on the exact course the entire time. Your sway from right to left were exactly equal in distance. I guess Captain Tod was right. It looks like your cut out for this whether you know it or not.” Rocket said with a smile.
“Really? That's strange. I didn't even feel like I was doing anything.” John responded.
“Well obviously you have the knack for it but you can take a break that's all for today. Report to Captain Tod in his quarters.” Rocket ordered.
“Yes sir.” John answered obediently. John walked down to the lower deck and then walked towards the Captain's Quarters. He went to knock on the door when it flew open.
“John! I wasn't expecting you come in, please1” Tod said with great enthusiasm. Tod held the door open and gestured John into the room. Tod shut the door behind them and sat behind his desk in the corner of the room.
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“So. How did you do with steering the ship?” Tod asked with a big smile.
“Rocket said I stayed on course the entire time and that my movements from right to left were the same distance. He said I had a knack for it.” John answered.
“I knew you would! I have get some strange feelings about things like that and they usually turn out to be right.” Tod smiled again.
“Rocket said the same thing.” John added.
“Well, anyways tomorrow we start trailing the Blood Moon Crew. So I hope you're ready. Once we catch up to them it's
going to be an intense battle. Tomorrow you will start your sword fighting training with Ricky. Until then you may do whatever ye like. Dinner is whenever you're hungry.” Tod told him.
“Okay, thank you.” John smiled and then walked out of the room and down to his bed. He laid down and fell asleep within a few minutes exhausted from his first day.
Chapter 7
“Rise and shine!” Ricky said as he poured a bucket of freezing water over John. John burst from his slumber with a loud cry.
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“Good morning.” Ricky laughed. John, now soaked and cold, rubbed his eyes and opened them. Ricky looked just as expected. He had a rugged look to him and was one of the most muscular person he had seen. He had one cutlas at each of his sides and wore a dark brown vest with lighter brown shorts.
“Morning.” John answered angrily.
“Oh don't be mad. It was just a joke now go change into some dry clothes and I'll change your bed.” Ricky said with a smirk. John walked off to the small room nearby and changed into new clothes. He came back into the room and Ricky was sitting on John's, now dry, bed.
“Today you're going to learn to how sword fight.” Ricky said.
“Well I am a blacksmith so I should be fine.” John told him.
“Is that so? Then let's not waste time.” Ricky handed John one of his swords.
“Let's see what you got. Attack me!” Ricky urged John.
“Whatever you say.” John said as he took a swing and Ricky. Ricky sliced back at the handle of John's sword and knocked it out of his hand.
“What that an attack?” Ricky asked with a big grin. John picked up his sword and swung again. This time Ricky just simply moved to the side and dodged it. John continued his attack and
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Ricky continued to dodge every single one of them.
“Are you done yet?” Ricky asked after about two dozen attempts.
“I guess I'm rusty.” John said with a heavy breath.
“No. You're just not very good. You see you come at me with random swings hoping to hit me. You have to plan each strike and always look one step ahead. We may be pirates but we aren't idiots.” Ricky explained.
“Okay, so why don't you attack me now. I want to see what you got.” John said confidently. Ricky immediately jabbed at John with his sword. John struck back but Ricky circled around John's sword and jabbed again. Right before he was about to stab John he stopped and smiled at him.
“I guess I have a lot to learn.” John said with a frown.
“Don't worry. A couple of lessons with me and you'll get better.” Ricky told him.
“Alright. Well I'm ready let's start!.” John enthusiastically said.
“First we will start with your stance. I noticed that yours is sloppy and needs some work. You have the right idea but you don't keep to it you continuously change. You need to spread your feet apart and always be on your toes ready to pounce towards or away from your opponent. Watch me” Ricky positioned
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his feet about shoulder width apart and slightly arched up on his toes. He then moved forward and backward very quickly showing John how to move.
“You see you don't just jump back and forth you either lightly glide or you shuffle. Also, you should never have your back or front directly pointed at your opponent. Your body should always be angled so you can easily dodge any incoming jabs or slashes.” Ricky explained.
“Okay. Like this?” John asked as he took position like Ricky did and started shuffling backwards while having his body turned slightly away from Ricky.
“That's pretty good but the only way you can improve is by adapting to different attacks. So I will swing at you and you
have to dodge my attack. That means no weapon.” Ricky told John. John handed his sword to Ricky and Ricky put it aside. John got back in the stance and readied himself.
“Here we go.” Ricky said. First he dashed forward and tried to surprise John but John simply side stepped and then shuffled backwards avoiding Ricky's second attack.
“That was very good!” Ricky applauded John. “You dodged the first attack and then thought a step ahead of me and dodged my incoming second attack.”
“Yeah. It's incredible how much of a difference just the
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stance is.” John smiled thankfully.
“Every little part of sword fighting is important as you will soon learn. But next you will learn how to parry.” Ricky said.
“Parry?” John questioned.
“You're a blacksmith who has prior knowledge of sword fighting and doesn't know what a parry is?” Ricky asked.
“No. I don't have a clue.” John answered.
“Well. A parry is when your opponent attacks you and you use your sword, or whatever else you may be using to block the attack. Attack me and I will show you.” Ricky readied himself. John slashed at Ricky and Ricky used his sword to uppercut John's attack. John's arm was pushed upward and Ricky put his
sword to John's throat.
“A parry.” Ricky smiled. “Now get in your stance and ready yourself. You will be trying to do the same.”
John took his stance and held out his sword in front of him. Ricky then stabbed towards John's waist and John slashed down at his sword.
“That was good but easily avoided. Here let me show you a few examples. Attack me again.” Ricky said. John tried to attack Ricky by bringing his sword down toward Ricky's head and Ricky put one hand on each end of his sword and put it in front of
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John's attack.
“That block may get one of your hands cut but it can be a life saver.” Ricky said. “Now stab at my chest.”
John nodded and took a jab at Ricky. Ricky took one big swipe at John's sword from below.
“That one, if effective, will make your opponent's arm go up in the air making him open for an attack. Now it's your turn.” Ricky smiled.
“Gotcha.” John said as he got ready. Without a second thought Ricky tried to stab John in the chest. John did as instructed and cut upwards at Ricky's sword. Ricky slashed back down towards John's neck and John moved to the side and stabbed back at Ricky. Ricky smiled at this and shuffled backwards and
then pounced forward with another jab. John, once again, blocked it and tried to slash at Ricky's shoulder. Ricky cut up at his sword but John attacked again with a stab to Ricky's chest. When Ricky tried to parry it John did the same thing Ricky did when he tried to attack him and circled around Ricky's sword. John went to finish his strike and stopped right before the middle of his chest. Ricky got a very big smile and John grew a grin.
“Very good work!” Ricky laughed.
“Thanks” John responded.
“I guess you were just rusty. You seem to be very good
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already you just needed some tweaking. Well that's all for today tomorrow we will work on combinations and more dodging. Report to Captain Tod in his Quarters.” Ricky ordered. John smiled but did what he was ordered and walked up to the deck and entered Tod's Quarters. Tod was sharpening his sword on some sort of belt.
“Captain Tod, Ricky told me to report to you.” John said. Tod stopped what he was doing and looked up at John.
“Well, what do you have to report to me?” Tod asked.
“I finished training with him today.” John answered.
“Oh good!” Tod said ecstatically. “How did you do?”
“At first I was really rusty but I improved on my stance and learned how to parry. I've already improved greatly.” John
explained with a smile.
“Perfect! I hope you will be a valued fighter. We're going to need as many as we can once we find The Blood Moon Crew.” Tod said.
“Are we going after them now?” John asked.
“Aye. We started for them early this morning. We are hoping to catch up to them in just a few days. They may be feared everywhere but their ship isn't as fast as The Redeemer that's for sure.” Tod smiled.
“Do you think we will be ready?” John asked.
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“Well, I'll give you all the details. The Blood Moon Crew now has an estimated 95 crew members. We have 73. They have a brigantine with 12 cannons. We have a schooner with 10 cannons. So the truth.” Tod paused. “We are outnumbered and out powered. However, we have been waiting for this moment for a long time. We have a fast and wonderful ship with 73 hard working men. We are ready!” Tod smiled.
“Then let me know what you want me to do Captain!” John shouted.
“You could go find Sea Short. I want you to help him with whatever he is working on up on deck.” Tod said.
“Yes captain!” John smiled and walked out of Tod's Quarters to look for Sea Short.
Chapter 8
John walked around the bottom deck and couldn't seem to find Sea Short. He went up to the top deck and saw Rocket.
“Hey Rocket!” John waved. Rocket answered with a smile.
“Do you know where Sea Short is?” John asked him.
“Sea Short and a few others took a rowboat out further ahead to get a glimpse of things. There doesn't seem to be much wind so Captain sent them out.” Rocket answered.
“Oh, Captain Tod just told me to look for Sea Short.” John
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proclaimed.
“Really?
Well you should report back to him to remind him that he isn't here.
Just to be sure.”
“Okay, thanks.” John gave Rocket a quick
smile and then returned to Captain Tod's Quarters. John went up to
the door and knocked.
“Come in!” Captain Tod ordered. John opened the door and walked in.
“What are you doing here? Didn't I just tell you to go help Sea Short?” Tod asked with a raised voice.
“Rocket told me Sea Short and a few others are out scouting ahead.” John answered.
“Aye. I must have forgotten, my apologies. In that case, you can get something to eat in the galley and then give Rocket a break.” Tod ordered.
“Give Rocket a break? Are you sure?” John asked.
“Aye. We don't have much wind today so it won't be too demanding. It will give ye some practice so get to it!” Tod ordered again.
“Yes, Captain!” John walked out of the room and went below the deck to the galley. The room was oddly large for the size of the ship however it was probably the neatest room on the ship. There were a few pots on a table in the middle but other than
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that the room was filled with barrels and shelves. Each barrel had a label of a different type of food like “Apples” and “Fish”. The shelves on the other side of the room were nailed to the floor and wall. They were filled with loaves of bread and rum, lots of rum. Theparts of the shelves filled with rum had another piece of wood along the middle the shelf to make sure nothing fell. John decided to grab a bottle of rum, a small loaf of bread, and a few apples. He didn't feel too hungry and wasn't sure how much he should eat because before now food had been brought to him. The top of the Apple barrel came off quite easily. John took the food to his bed and started eating.
“Ow!” John cried out after he took a bite of the bread. It was extremely stale and was as hard as a rock. John set down the bread and started eating his apples. They were very old but edible and somewhat sweet. After devouring both apples John took
a swig of rum which seemed to be the most appetizing thing on the ship. Another crew member came into the room and sat on his bed. He looked over at John and smiled.
“Ello! You should really try pouring rum on ye bread. It is help ye eat it.” The man advised.
“Thanks!” John smiled. He poured a little Rum on the end of his bread and took a bite. It was still very hard but had a nice taste to it.
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“There ye go.” The man smiled.
“Thank you. I haven’t seen you around what's your name?” John asked taking another bite out of his rum-soaked bread.
“My name isn't really important as ye won't see me anymore.” The man answered.
“Why not?” John asked again.
“I'm not fit for this world anymore. I have served on this ship for awhile and decided that once we finally get rid of The Blood Moon Crew I won't have purpose.” The man said solemnly.
“No purpose?” John asked confused.
“Aye. The Blood Moon Crew took everything from me. So once I return the favor I'll have nothing.” The man responded.
“I've lost everything too. The Blood Moon Crew killed the last of my family, my brother, and destroyed my home. That's why I'm here because Tod saved my life.” John explained.
“We have similar stories you and I. You see my family livedin a fairly large village called Angelos. I was helping the Navy as a carpenter nearby but The Blood Moon Crew killed everyone. I also had a fiance who lived in Gohl but she was murdered.” The man explained.
“Gohl? I lived in Gohl. Was she killed when The Blood Moon Crew attacked?” John asked.
“No. When Captain Tod was there for information I asked him
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to give her a letter. The next time I saw him he said she was murdered by a deranged man in town. He was sent to prison but I had lost my future wife.” The man started crying.
“Wait. What her name Mary?” John asked. The man looked up in awe.
“Ya, yes it was. How did you know?” The man asked.
“Captain Tod told me that a women in Gohl named Mary with a fiance in Angelos gave him information about The Blood Moon Crew. He said her fiance was killed there.” John explained.
Horror grew in The man's eyes and he lashed out in anger at John. John pushed back at him trying to hold him back.
“Help!” John yelled.
“How dare you lie to my face! I'll kill you!” The man yelled out in anger. Captain Tod came running into the room sword drawn.
“I order you to stop Theodore!” Tod yelled. Theodore didn't
stop and continued to try and strangle John. John was still holding him off but just barely.
“Theodore!” Tod yelled as he lightly cut the back of Theodore's neck. Theodore stopped and put his hand over the cut.
“Calm yourself and tell me what John did!” Tod ordered. Theodore tried to calm down but was still furious.
“He lied to my face about my wives death!” he accused. Tod got a worried expression on his face.
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“If you know he is lying then he's lying!” Tod yelled.
“You told me you got information from a women named Mary in Gohl who had a dead fiance in Angelos!” John yelled. Tod went to talk but was speechless. Theodore noticed his expression and started crying again.
“It's true! I can see it on your face! Why did you lie to me?” Theodore cried out. Tod thought for a moment and gathered a sentence.
“I needed a man with nothing.”
“What?” Theodore asked confused.
“I needed a man who would be willing to sacrifice himself to take down The Blood Moon Crew. No one would do it because they had something to look forward to after this. You were the only one who had almost nothing.” Tod explained.
“No one else here has lost their family?” John asked.
“Most have lost a lot of their family or part of it but all of them still have something.” Tod answered.
“You are a sick man!” Theodore proclaimed.
“I did what was needed for the crew.” Tod said softly.
“Well I'm not doing the mission anymore.” Theodore answered.
“You must! It's our only hope!” Tod ordered
“What mission?” John asked.
“The scouts we sent out are going to the nearest town to
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steal gunpowder and a sloop. Then they would fill the sloop with gunpowder and Theodore and few others would light the gunpowder and sail it into The Blood Moon Crew's ship. However, most of the crew would use rowboats to escape but one man needs to stay behind to make sure it hits.” Tod explained.
“And I'm not doing it! I'm doing nothing for you traitor!” Theodore yelled.
“I'll do it.” John whispered.
“What?” Tod and Theodore said.
“I'll do it. Even if Tod lied to you he saved my life and I am here to repay you. So. I'll do it.”
“Very well.” Tod said. “Report to my Quarters and we will discuss the plan. Theodore you can take the day off. We will talk later.”
John nodded and Theodore walked off. Tod stood up and
gestured John to follow. They walked up and into Tod's Quarters.
Chapter 9
“Take a seat.”
“So what's the plan?” John asked.
“The next few days you will be with Rocket learning how to steer a crew-less ship. Then once the scouts return you will board the sloop and sail into The Blood Moon Crew's ship. The
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other men will take care of the gunpowder.” Tod explained.
“We will find The Blood Moon Crew by then?” John asked.
“We have been trailing then for a few days now. We are behind them enough that they can't spot us. We have scouts posted on smaller ships farther ahead so we know their movements.” Tod answered.
“Alright.”
“You're a brave lad. The Redeemer thanks ye.” Tod empathized. John stood up and walked to the corner. He brushed his hand against the wall of the room and looked up with his eyes closed.
“You understand her now don't ye?” Tod smiled.
“Aye. I understand.”
Chapter 10
“They're here Captain Tod!” a crew member yelled from atop the Crow's Nest.
John was in Tod's Quarters sitting silently across from each other. Everything had gone by so fast. He had lost his entire
family and right when he thought he may have found,maybe not another family, but something close he has no choice but to leave them. He owed Tod his life and this was the only way he could repay him. Whether John wanted to be or not he was truly
2
alone now.
“We'll be sailing next to each other for the day. So ye can get a feel for her.” Tod finally said. John just shook his head in response.
“Boy!” Tod growled. “You're the one who volunteered! Now go do your duty!”
“I know. It's the only way I can think of to repay you for saving me. I was just hoping I could think of another.” John answered.
“Aye. Yer time here was short but your impact on these men and The Redeemer will be huge.”
“Aye.” John left the room and tried to put a smile on his face as we boarded the sloop.
“Welcome aboard Captain John!” Sea Short greeted John with a smile.
“Thanks.” John responded. A man handed John a red tricornehat with a gold colored trim.
“It was my fathers. He was a great man just like you. I'm sorry John” John looked up and saw Theodore. He smiled, took the
hat from Theodore and placed it on his head.
“Let's set sail!” John ordered.
“Aye Captain!” His crew responded. John and Theodore shared smiles and then separated. John took to the wheel and glanced
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back over to The Redeemer. He saw Rocket waving back at him.
“Just follow me Capt'n Johnnie!” Rocket yelled. John gave him a wave back and they were off.
Chapter 11
“Captain John!” Sea Short said.
“Aye, Sea Short.”
“Captain Tod would like to see you in his Quarters. We are very close to The Blood Moon Crew.”
“Let's board!” John yelled out. When both ships slowed down John and Rocket moved close together.
“Put down the planks!” John ordered. Several mates carried large wooden planks and laid them down connecting the two ships.
John walked across and went right into Captain Tod's Quarters.
“Ye wanted me?” John said.
“I see ye have started to speak more like us. It catches on it does.” Tod smiled.
“I guess so. What did you want from me?” John asked again.
“It seems we are closer than I anticipated. So, sadly.” Tod paused. “We will have to do it tonight.” Tod finished. John
didn't say anything for a moment.
“Aye. I'll ready the ship”
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“Your crew has already done it. Now it's just about getting things done.” Tod said.
“So what's the plan?” John asked.
“I will take The Redeemer in first with your sloop trailing behind. We will start cannon fire from afar as a distraction. Then you move the sloop in using its speed and crash into them.” Tod explained.
“Got it.” John answered.
“Good luck matey.” Tod said as his final words.
John gave a wimpy smile and then returned to the sloop. The two ships separated and The Redeemer started to pull ahead. The sloop was completely silent. The crew members were preparing the rowboats and waiting at their stations. John was at the helm waiting out his final moments. Sea Short approached him.
“Captain. I think you should spare some last words.”
“Aye. Gather the crew.” John ordered. Sea Short went back to the deck and individually rounded up the crew. They were silent.
“I have only been here for a short time. Most of you know why I'm here but for those of you who don't Tod saved my life. As he may have done the same for many others. The difference between us? I have nothing. The Blood Moon Crew took that all
away from me! Now I have a chance to redeem myself! It my cost my life but living with all this hate isn't worth it any longer.
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Many people would refer to my actions as heroic. I'm not the only one giving up their life though. The one person who, without them, we would surely fail. This ship.” John caressed the railings near the helm. “The Savior.”
There was complete silence and then a pop. John fell to his knees in awe. He moved his hand and noticed it was over his chest. Blood was seeping onto his shirt. He fell to the ground silent.
Chapter 12
“What? Who shot him!” Sea Short yelled.
“Shut up ye filthy blood rat!” A familiar voice yelled.
“Cap-Captain Tod!?” Sea Short yelled.
“Bring them over!” Tod ordered. The Redeemer stayed a lot closer than anyone thought. The ship slowed and met up with The Savior. Planks were put down and most of the crew members were hauled over by a few other members. All of the ones being forced over were tied up with rope.
“Now, put up the flag!” Tod ordered.
“After hauling over everyone the 12 pirates under Captain Tod took out pistols and tied up the rest of the crew. Then 4 of them walked back over to The Redeemer and started raising a flag. It was a dark, eerie red color with the picture of a
2
crescent moon in the middle.
“No!” Sea Short and several other cried out.
“Oh, yes” Tod snickered. “Now light the fuses and send them afloat!” He grinned.
“I knew you were a sinister man!” Theodore shouted. “I never trusted you!”
“Well it's too late now.” Tod grinned again.
“This was your plan then? Manipulate people you planned to hurt but use them for free labor!?” Sea Short yelled.
“Close. You see The Blood Moon Crew's Captain is my beloved brother. He wanted to start a fleet of unstoppable pirates. His offer was tremendous so I and the men you see before me agreed. Everyone else, yes, was here so that we could easily expand our wealth.” Tod explained.
“You're a monster!” Theodore yelled while everyone stared in complete disbelief.
“Pirate!” Tod taunted. “Oh, speaking of my brother.” Tod smiled. The Blood Moon Crew's ship approached The Redeemer with blazing speed. It started to slow as it got near. They set planks to board The Redeemer and slowly made their way to The Savior.
“Brother!” The Captain of The Blood Moon Crew said happily.
“Gareth!” Tod responded.
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“I see everything went as planned” Gareth smiled.
“Aye. Perfectly.” Tod said.
“Good. Now mates!” Gareth paused. “Load the ship with the booty!” His crew roared with excitement.
“Tod, I assume you can take care of the rest.”
“Aye.” Tod responded.
“Good.” Gareth turned and walked back to his ship as his crew finished loading the treasure. Then they started sailing to safety.
“You won't get away with this!” Rocket yelled.
“Too bad.” Tod smirked. “Light the fuses!” He ordered. Below the deck a few of the crew members lit the fuses and hurried back up.
“All set let's go!” one of them said.
“All aboard! Hurry now!” Tod ordered as he walked back to his ship.
“So long.” He said the last plank was lifted and the began to sail away. The remainder of the crew now on the doomed ship sat in pure silence waiting for their demise. Still in shock from John's death and their captain's betrayal. The fuses got closer and closer to the barrels of gunpowder and The Redeemer got farther and farther away. Some men struggled to release their bonds but could not while most just sat there knowing the
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end was near.
Chapter 13
“Ugh. What happened? This pain in my chest. I can't move and everything is black. What's going on?” John's vision started to clear but the pain in his chest worsened. His mobility slowly returned to him and he sat up right.
“Ah!” John cried out in pain putting his had to his chest. He was still bleeding profusely and couldn't stop it.
“John!? You're alive!” Rocket yelled. Everyone looked over and shouted out to him.
“John! The ship is going to explode! You need to do something! Tod betrayed us!” Sea Short explained.
John tried to stand up but fell back down. The second time he grabbed the railing and lifted himself up to his feet. Still pushing against the railing he walked down the stairs and stumbled to the group of tied up pirates.
“Here.” John took out a knife but fell to the ground.
“John!” Sea Short cried out.
“I think I can reach the knife.” Rocket said. He stretched and after a few tries grabbed a hold of the knife and started to cut himself free.
“Hurry! There can't be much time!” Theodore told him.
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“I got it!” Rocket yelled.
“Quickly run downstairs and stop the the fuses!” Sea Short
cried out. Rocket ran as fast as he could down below the deck and saw the fuses. They were just a few feet away from the gunpowder and moving fast. He dashed over and stomped on all three of the fuses until they went out.
“Ya!” He yelled out to the heavens. The men above heard him and cried out with joy. Rocket went back up and untied the rest of the crew.
“Now we have to help John.” Theodore said while rubbing his wrists from the rope burn.
“Aye. We need to find some bandages and stop that bleeding.” Rocket said.
“I'll go grab some rum and whatever bandages I can find. The rest of you should get the ship sailing so we can catch up to those bastards!” Sea Short told them. He ran downstairs and went into the galley to grab a bottle of rum then he checked the shelves all around the room and found two rolls of bandages next to the loaves of bread. He ran back upstairs and to his surprise the ship was already heading in the direction that Tod and Gareth sailed. Sea Short went over to John and popped open the rum bottle.
“This is going to hurt. A lot.” Sea Short poured the rum
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over John's wound and he yelled out in pain. “Good your conscious. Now I'm gonna put some bandages on your wound so just
stay still.” Sea Short explained. John's body eased from the relief of pain while Sea Short wrapped bandages around his chest. After he used up the rolls he tied it tight so that it wouldn't come undone.
“Thanks.” John managed to say.
“He'll be fine he just needs some rest.” Sea short reassured everyone.
“They're coming our way!” Rocket pointed in their ships direction and just on the horizon was The Redeemer.
Chapter 14
“We need a plan!” Theodore said.
“I have one.” John whispered.
“John said he has one!” Sea Short told everyone. “What is it?”
“Light the fuses and crash into them.” John advised.
“Are you kidding?” Sea Short asked.
“No. The pain in my chest is getting worse and I know I don't have much time. So...” John stopped for a moment and held his chest. “So carry me to the fuses and I'll let them while you escape. They are coming this way anyways we can trap them.” John
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explained.
“What? We just saved you! How would you even know when to light the fuses?” Sea Short asked.
“Let off a hand grenade.” John gave a weak smile.
“We don't have any other choice!” Rocket said.
“But we can't just let him die!” Theodore added.
“It's okay. I finally get to repay Captain Tod.” John gave a little smirk.
“Aye. Its what he wants.” Sea Short finally agreed. “Theodore help me carry him down to the fuses. Rocket get me a torch. The rest of you get ready to sail in the opposite direction!” Sea Shore ordered. Theodore immediately ran over and helped Sea Short carry John. John tensed up in pain and held his chest tightly. Rocket followed and searched the kitchen for a torch. He found one but it wasn't lit. So he went to the sleeping quarters and looked under each bed. Luckily he found a tinderbox and brought it over to John who was laying on the floor near the three fuses.
“Here you go Captain John.” Rocket gave a smile.
“Now get out of here! They should be close and remember to shoot a cannon off when they get close.” John ordered.
“Captain! They are closing in!” One of the crew members yelled from the top of the stairs.
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“Go Now!” John yelled.
“Goodbye. Captain Johnnie.” Theodore smiled.
“Aye. Goodbye.” “Goodbye” Rocket and Sea Short said.
“Ye were a pleasure to serve under sir!” Sea Short added.
“And you a pleasure to have known.” John responded. And at that the three went upstairs and boarded the rowboats. There were three of them and they easily fit the crew.Theodore took out a hand grenade from his vest and got ready to light it. The Redeemer was just about 2 minutes away from The Savior. The crew tried to row as fast as they could to get to a safe spot away from the explosion.
Chapter 15
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