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Challenge: Beginnings
December 28, 2003

By Sylvia
December 28, 2003

~ Beginnings ~

The ship bucked under his feet, testing his resolve, appraising his worthiness. Jack moved with the swell, eyes fixed firmly on the horizon, not minding one bit that she wanted someone worthy of her. And he would be worthy. His strong hands clasped the wheel, feeling the rudder fight against his control, a battle of wills between ship and captain, each determined to show their mettle. He ordered the sails to be unfurled, catching the wind blowing up behind them, and the ship steadied, finally accepting that with this man she would be safe, that she belonged to him alone.

By Saber
December 30, 2003

~ New Life ~

White curtains wafted gently in a warm breeze blowing in from the ocean through open windows where early morning sunlight spilled its golden rays inside. A young dark haired man closed his eyes briefly and tilted his head towards the light, letting the warmth wash over him. It had been a long and trying night for everyone.

A sharp cry rang in the air, followed by another and another. Turning, he watched the newborn’s face scrunched and unhappy face ease as a female voice sang a soft lullaby.

Bill Turner’s face lit up with unbridled joy as the midwife placed his tiny son in his arms. His son. No two words had ever filled him with so much fear, but at the same time it brought him hope. Tears sprang unbidden into his deep brown eyes and his gaze traveled from the priceless bundle in his arms to his wife. She smiled tiredly up at him, reaching out a hand to caress the cheek of their child, moving it up to smooth his wispy dark hair.

“The lad still needs a name,” he reminded her.

“No…he already has one.” the young woman whispered, a smile playing on her features, “Will…”

By Hereswith
December 30, 2003

~ Beginning ~

A week on the ship and she got her sea legs. Like she was born to it, one of the sailors said, but Mr Gibbs shook his head, muttering about bad luck or no luck at all. She had learned not to mind him, though he had frightened her at first.

Whenever her father's attention wavered, she stood at the bow, watching the men climb up and down the rigging, watching the sea shift and change as the weather changed. Azure blue and grey as burnished steel.

A new life, beyond the edge of that horizon. She could hardly wait.

By Eledhwen
January 3, 2004

~ The Black Pearl ~

First, the hull. A skeleton of pale wood, curves steamed and shaped and fitted together. A skin laid over the bones. Decks, smooth and straight.

Then the adornments. A figurehead, to drive the vessel onwards into storm and wave. Carvings at the stern - sea creatures, looping and diving. Patterns on the Great Cabin's walls, leaded glass at the windows.

Masts and rigging. Mile upon mile of rope, acres of canvas, tightened and checked and checked again.

A final touch; wood stained black as night. Finally she sets sail, equipped with everything she needs, prepared to become what she is.

Freedom.

~.~

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