Pieces of Jade

by Lani Woodland

  “High praise.” I leaned in closer to Dorian. “Does this mean I have your sympathy?”

  Dorian’s eyes hardened. “No. I’ve heard your excuses, but they don’t change what you did. You murdered the prince.”

  “It was an accident.” I looked him square in the eye. “I swear it.”

  To my surprise Dorian laughed. “Like I’d believe you.”

  I ignored the way his words burned and peeked over my shoulder. Lafe and the guard were still deep in conversation and I leaned close to Dorian.

  “I’ve seen the medallion.”

  His head whipped up. “You have?”

  I bit my lip as I thought back to the claim that it was a map. “Dorian, what do you know of it? Why does the kingdom want it back?”

  Dorian shook a chicken bone at me. “I don’t question my assignments. I’m told what to track and I find it.”

  “Aren’t you curious? The pirates seem to think it leads to a great treasure.”

  He dropped the bone onto his plate. “Of course they do; pirates think everything is a map to a treasure.”

  I frowned at him. “Still, we should let the kingdom know when we give it back to them.”

  “We?”

  “I thought you needed to turn me in to get paid.”

  “I do,” he said, still surprised.

  I shrugged. “I don’t plan on fighting it. Even without our blood oath, they have my sister, how could I do anything other than come willingly? She shouldn’t suffer for my choices.”

  “Such noble words,” Dorian said. I didn’t miss the sarcasm.

  “I wasn’t trying to sound noble.” I stood up and dusted the dirt from my trousers. “I’ll come up with some way to steal the necklace, and if you’re still in here when I do, I’ll find a way to free you as well.”

  Dorian pushed his plate under the bars. “Don’t do anything hasty. It would do you no good to steal it now or even release me. Where would you hide it? Of everyone aboard, you would be suspected first. Don’t make a move until you can get us both off of the ship.”

  “I know that, but I need to act quickly. Pearl’s life depends on it. The longer we wait, the further we are from her.”

  He sighed and leaned his forehead against the metal bars. “You want my advice? Don’t let your emotions rule your head. Think. Plan. Wait.”

  “I will.” I looked at him in silence for a moment before picking up the plate. I headed back to the galley, my mind fumbling for a plan.

  Chapter 13

  I finished my assigned kitchen duties with a thoughtful determination, my body working but my mind trying to find a way to steal the medallion. I washed every dish while Joe silently observed my tenacious scrubbing and leant a hand by scrubbing the floor. When we were done the galley gleamed. Joe dismissed me for the evening and Lafe followed at my heels.

  No plan came to me and my spirits were low as I descended the stairs back towards the room I would share with my husband. I leaned my forehead against the doorframe for a moment and shut my eyes. For all I knew, William could be in there now, preparing himself for bed.

  “Lafe?”

  “Ma’am?”

  “Would you mind making sure my . . . that my husband is decent?”

  Lafe grinned widely and I heard him chuckle in surprise. “I doubt he’d care if he wasn’t. William ain't ashamed of his own skin. He won’t mind if you see him bare.”

  “Perhaps not, but I mind.”

  Lafe scratched the back of his neck. “But ma’am, he’s your husband.”

  “Well yes, but not in the normal way.”

  “Oh.” He stepped around me and knocked once, waited for a minute to see if William answered, then opened the door and popped his head inside.

  “He ain’t there. Probably still on duty.” He nudged his shoulder against mine with a laugh. “It’s safe.”

  With as regal a nod as I could manage I slipped through the door. A long nightshirt lay on my bunk, a note attached.

  In case you need something to sleep in.

  The bed is yours. I will take the hammock.

  William

  “That was thoughtful of him,” I admitted to myself. I locked the door and quickly changed into the soft shirt. It smelled like pine needles and rich soil. After unlocking the door, I slipped into the cool sheets, which had the same comforting, earthy smell.

  I soon found I couldn’t rest because my thoughts wouldn’t settle. They turned to the mystery of my medallion. It had hung from my neck my entire life. I had always thought it was beautiful, but otherwise unremarkable, except, perhaps, for the story of its origin. It had originally belonged to Princess Dawn, the first Emmía who had spilt her blood to combat the warlock’s curse on the soil. No one but the Emmía ever wore it; during the two hundred years interim, it was stored and guarded as it awaited its next owner.

  Yet with all of the care and importance given to the medallion, I had never heard anything to suggest it held any power other than showcasing my obedience to the kingdom’s morals.

  But the captain insisted it was a map to a treasure. I would have thought it impossible only a few days ago, but now, with everything that had happened, I wasn’t sure anymore. I remembered Aleah’s nervous expression when I’d confessed I no longer possessed the medallion. Could it really be because of a map?

  I had to consider the possibility that the pirates knew something no one else did. They must truly believe it to risk so much, to go to such lengths for it. I couldn’t help but speculate. What could be worth risking the wrath of the entire Orean kingdom? What kind of treasure would be worth such a cost?

  My mind whirled as thoughts tumbled over me, choppy as the sea. No matter how I looked at the situation, it still seemed impossible to believe.

  And yet, I owed it to myself and to my people to reclaim the medallion and return it to Orea. Not only would it save Pearl’s life, but the medallion would be back where it belonged. And it would deprive the pirates of their coveted treasure—if it really existed.

  The wind howled and the boat creaked in agreement with my decision. I had so many questions I was afraid to ask. However, what I needed more than answers was a plan of action. While cleaning, I had the thought that the captain most likely kept the medallion hidden in his quarters when not on his person. I would need to gather my courage and sneak into his room alone. If it was there, I could steal it and then . . .

  I sighed. That was always the problem: how to get away alive. I wasn’t sure how I could accomplish such a feat. Perhaps I would have to wait for the ship to dock at another port before I took it. That left me with escaping the hunting group the pirates would no doubt send, and getting back to Orean territory. Perhaps Dorian could help. That reminded me, I would have to organize a jailbreak on top of everything else. And I would have to abandon my husband, severing my marriage vows.

  A pang of conscience pulled at me at the thought. I had been raised to believe marriage vows were important, not to be taken or broken lightly. I immediately rejected that thought. The captain had plainly stated that my marriage to William was a technicality only. Besides, I was sure that William would be glad to be rid of me. What young man would truly want an old woman for a wife?

  The rocking of the ship intensified. After fifteen minutes or so I feared it would last the whole night. I groaned in bed. My dinner rumbled in my stomach, acid clawed its way up my throat, and a clammy perspiration dotted my forehead. The room swayed back and forth. I curled into a ball and moaned, wishing the misery would end. A knock on the door distracted me for a moment. “Yes?”

  “It’s William.” He paused. “May I come in?”

  “Of course.”

  The door swung open and he entered, giving me a brief nod and a tight smile.

  “Thank you for the nightshirt,” I managed.

  He nodded just as I felt the contents of my stomach rise. I put my hand over my mouth, jumped out of bed, and sprinted for the chamber pot across the room. Before I could get there,
it all came out, spraying my sick on William from his shirt to his boots. As green as I felt, my cheeks flushed red.

  “I’m so sor—” I started, but threw up again. This time I managed to get most of it in the chamber pot, though some spilled on the floor. I pushed my gray hair away from my face and peeked at my husband, who stood frozen and wide-eyed. “I’m sorry. I’m afraid I’m a bit seasick.”

  Without a word he turned and left. I threw up a few more times and lay on the floor, wishing for death.

  “Sheridan?” Lafe asked, opening the door a little. “I heard you might need this.” He set down a pitcher of water, a bucket, and a few rags before leaving. The smell of the room added to my nausea. I stood on shaky legs and opened the round window to let in some of the fresh, salty air. What a day for poor William. He had ended up married to an old woman and spent his wedding night covered in sick.

  To distract myself, I decided to put the water and bucket to use, cleaning up my mess. I emptied the chamber pot out of the window, leaning as far out as I could so it wouldn’t splatter me or the ship. Luckily the wind worked in my favor.

  I rested against the wall, gathering strength. After a few minutes I sank to my knees, picked up a rag and mopped. I had to stop to throw up one more time but the room was almost clean again when William reentered.

  He stopped short when he saw me. “What are you doing?”

  “Cleaning up. Isn’t that why you sent for a bucket?”

  He sighed. “I sent those up so I could do the cleaning. Get back in bed.” He helped me to my feet and led me to the bunk. “You rest.” He put the chamber pot close to the bed. “Let’s keep this close.”

  “Thank you,” I said weakly.

  “Well it’s the least I could do for my wife on our wedding night.”

  A small laugh escaped my lips. William finished cleaning and then helped me sit up to sip some water.

  “Here. I got this taffy from the doctor. It’s a special blend of . . . I have no idea what is in it, to be honest. We give it to all the new sailors. It will help. I also have some crackers for you.”

  The taffy tasted of peppermint and ginger, and calmed my roiling stomach. I nibbled the crackers and sipped water until I felt better. When William decided I looked less green, he turned out the lamp and got into his hammock. What had motivated this seemingly kind man to marry a woman he thought old enough to be his grandmother?

  “If you start to feel sick again, please wake me up.” He yawned. “Goodnight.”

  I didn’t think I would be able to sleep in a room with a man who was practically a stranger, but to my surprise I felt my eyes grow heavy and I quickly fell into a deep sleep.

  The next morning, the sun had barely peaked through the window when I awoke. To my surprise William had already slipped out.

  A green apple lay on the desk. A note beside it instructed me to eat it on the top deck near the middle of the ship to help prevent my seasickness from returning. He swore it would help, as would the extra piece of taffy that lay beside it. A lukewarm cup of tea was also waiting for me, with a slice of bread.

  I picked my satchel up from the desk chair and retrieved the pouch of dried herbal potion Aleah had given me to maintain my disguise, and slipped a pinch into the water. I stirred it and swallowed it down with my breakfast of soft bread.

  With a small smile, I donned a comfortable walking dress, picked up the apple, and headed to the top deck. The ocean air was bracing and I shivered against it. Despite the early hour and a thick fog, the ship was full of activity. I made my way to the railing and leaned against it before biting into the apple. It was tart and delicious. I rested my back against the railing and observed the men as they climbed the rigging, hoisting the sail and lashing it to the yard arms.

  A throat cleared to my right and I turned to find William. He pursed his lips, which pulled at the scars on his cheek. I wondered how he’d received such horrible wounds. But in the diffused morning light the ridges appeared less pronounced and it was easy to imagine the hardened skin smooth and perfect. Even scarred he was a handsome man.

  “Are you feeling better?” He took a step back. “Or should I stay out of range.”

  I burst out laughing and the corner of his mouth twitched. “I’m feeling much better. Your boots are safe.” I took another bite of the apple and chewed it slowly. “Thank you for taking such good care of me last night.”

  He dipped his head. “It was my, uh . . . honor as your husband.”

  I snorted. “If you say so.”

  “William and Sheridan. Our happy newlyweds.” My whole body tensed and the smile that had been flitting across my face died at the sound of the captain’s voice. The anger that knotted my stomach at his presence drained away into nothing, an empty hole swallowing my rage.

  The captain pulled his coat more firmly around him. “Sheridan, you will help in the galley again today. Tomorrow we will find you something else to do as well, perhaps mending tears in the sails, or rips in the crew’s shirts. Everyone works on a ship. Even old stowaways. William, please return to your duties.” The captain continued on his way.

  William watched his brother walk away. “I’ll see you later. If you feel ill again remember to visit the doctor.”

  Working in the galley was not bad. I didn’t mind washing dishes or cooking. I spent the whole day in that room. I scrubbed every surface, including the tables and floors. When I was done scrubbing, it was already time to prepare dinner. That evening, after Joe and I had finished in the kitchen, I walked up on deck for a bit of fresh air. The brisk breeze chilled my skin, and I wrapped my arms around myself for warmth.

  Most of the men were below deck, staying warm. Moonlight softly lit the sky, dancing along the waves while the stars twinkled. With the night so beautiful I couldn’t bring myself to retreat to my room. I rubbed my hands up and down my arms chafing the skin to stay warm as I walked. A lone man stood highlighted in the dim light. It was William, his head tipped back, studying the sky as if paying homage to the stars. I shivered as a gust of air stirred around me. William shivered too. He cupped his hands together in front of his mouth and then rubbed them together.

  I glanced at Lafe, my faithful shadow. “How long will William be out here in this cold?”

  Lafe shrugged. “A few hours yet.”

  The corner of my mouth dripped into a frown, watching William tug his jacket tighter around him. I returned to the kitchen, heated a pot of water, and made William a hot tea, which I carried to him. Just having it in my hands warmed me.

  “William, this is for you.”

  His eyes widened as he took the cup. “You didn’t have to do that. But thank you.” He took a sip. “Ahh . . . that helps keep the chill out.” He finished the mug in a few swallows.

  I gave him a small smile as he handed me the empty mug. “I’m glad I could do something for you after all you did last night.”

  His eyes left my face and returned to the sky. “I didn’t do much.”

  I clasped the still warm mug in my hands. “I think I’ll turn in now.”

  “Sleep well, Sheridan. Thank you again.”

  I returned the cup to the galley before going to my cabin. I said goodnight to Lafe and closed the door. The moonlight made it easy for me to light the lamp. Before I could begin undressing, the ship rocked and I lost my balance as the floor lurched out from under me. My body slammed into the wall, and as I crashed to the floor a deafening boom assaulted my ears. The ship shuddered and tipped again, snuffing out my lamp and adding a layer of smoke to the room. I blinked in the darkness, trying to understand what was happening. Was there a storm? Had we hit something?

  I could hear screams and the pounding of feet on deck. A shiver went down my spine as I limped toward my door and opened it, peering into the hallway. A man flashed past me as he ran toward the stairs, and a desperate clanging on the warning bell boomed ominously.

  “We’re under attack!” someone shouted.

  I flung open the door and
stepped into the hall. The captain appeared from around the corner, tightening a sword around his waist. I watched as he stuck his pistol into his pants and draped another sword across his torso. He paused briefly, looking at my shaking figure. “Do you know any healing?”

  I nodded. “A little.”

  “Good; go help the doctor. I daresay he’ll soon be needing all the help he can get.”

  He brushed past, then stopped, and returned to press two small daggers into my hands. I clasped the hilt, imagining for a second plunging it into his skin. The thought made my stomach churn. I doubted the bond he had on me would allow it, but even if it did, I couldn’t do it. I wouldn’t want to. Upset by weakness and yet, strangely at peace with this discovery, I watched him wheel around, following the crewman toward the stairs to the upper deck, a determined lift to his chin.

  I tucked the knives into my belt. I couldn't have asked for a better distraction to search for the medallion. Instead of heading for the sick bay, I made my way toward the captain’s room.

  I didn’t waste time being neat as I searched his quarters. His drawers and trunk proved unfruitful. I picked up his fiddle and a strange thunk resonated from the instrument. I held my breath as I rattled the fiddle. Sure enough, the strange sound was still there, as if something were inside. Could it be? I held my breath as I peered between the strings. The medallion lay nestled inside. My palms were sweaty as turned it upside down and my medallion fell into my hands, the strings squeaking as it slid past.

  I let out a squeak of triumph as I closed my shaking fingers around it. A momentary feeling of wholeness shocked me as I cradled it in my hands, the polished stone casting ruby sparkles across my face. Dropping the medallion quickly into my shirt, securing it close to my heart, I put the fiddle back and hurried into the hall.

  The clang of swords grew louder as I made my way on deck. My joy at finding my prize vanished as I stepped into the night air, horrified at the scene before me. As men locked in bloody hand-to-hand combat with swords and daggers, others swung from the enemy ship and joined the battle as soon as their feet touched the ground.