Post by Deleted on Mar 26, 2020 21:32:24 GMT -5
[JULIET] She couldn’t do this. Sitting there, surrounded by people, listening to their laughter and playful banters while the musicians played yet another song, no smile painted her face. This was a day for celebration, but she was overwhelmed. Her heart thrummed against her chest, panic rising up to the surface, her eyes remaining wide and open. The hour was growing late, and she was not so innocent as to not understand what was soon to come. And that would surely seal her fate, more than the actual wedding ceremony had. She had to run. She had to go. A hand on hers, it broke her out of her thoughts to turn and regard the man at her side. He had neatly pulled back blonde hair and bright blue eyes. Well, at least one was blue. The other had been scarred and fogged to white. A few other thin, raised scars adorned his face, but they didn’t seem to frighten her. It was the way he carried himself that did. “Everything alright?” he inquired. Honey-colored eyes blinked and she smiled warmly, “Yes. I’m sorry...I’m just tired.” That was mostly a lie. “Perhaps I need some air. I shall return.” Rising up from her seat, her smile widened just a little bit more to assure him that she was fine, before she quickly weaved through the crowd of people to find the exit. And the moment she felt the cool night air upon her face, she ran. Fortunately for her, the port was not far. Juliet saddled up the first horse she came across and took off from the estate, knowing it would not be long before someone came looking for her. That alone sent her into panic-mode, more than the fact that she was actually doing this. She was finally running.
There had been nothing entirely wrong with her life- she had a good childhood, a good home, and a loving family...but it hadn’t been enough to satiate her adventurous heart. Stuffy walls couldn’t push the image of the crashing waves from her mind, the allure of the salt-scented air. Juliet had only ever been on a ship a small handful of times, and they had been for short voyages. She wanted to make this one far longer. The cold bit into her skin, but she gritted her teeth against it as the town was coming into view, and she spotted the tavern up ahead. Certainly, crews would be resting right about now? Not one moment was taken to think about this, to realize how insane this truly was...not even as she slipped down from the horse and marched straight into the tavern. Heat, voices, and the scents of sweat, ale and cooked meat instantly assaulted her senses. It actually made her abruptly pause...especially when a lot of eyes turned their attention to the young woman decked out in a very beautifully beaded and lace dress, with jewels that glinted in the candlelight. Oh, no, she definitely hadn’t thought this through. Eyes scanned the patrons, trying not to cower beneath their scrutinizing gazes. Perhaps she should have stashed her jewelry, but this is what she did- she acted without really thinking, and it foolishly got her into trouble. The door opened behind her, causing her to quickly step forward. This led to a quick series of unfortunate events. Brisk steps made her step upon the already dirty hem of her pale dress, which ultimately made her stumble and bump into a rather large fellow seated at the table in front of her. It made him spill his drink down the front of his shirt...and Juliet was made very aware of just how tall and burly he was as he rose to his full stature to glare down at her.
“Ye owe me another drink-” he growled, pausing as he seemed surprised by the sight of her. “...lass.” He finished, and she didn’t really like the smile that suddenly curled a corner of his mouth. “Say now, that’s an awfully nice dress yer wearin’...and necklace…” For the briefest of moments, Jules wasn’t sure whether or not he was looking at that particular necklace, or her assets beneath it. “I’m assumin’ yer not from around here, eh?” “That is none of your concern,” she said in a steady voice, even if her heart was pounding once more. He was causing her to move away from the door and deeper into the tavern. The man’s menacing eyes glanced back towards the door briefly, amused by the fact that it was quite clear that she was alone. “Not usual for a lady of your...wealth to be unaccompanied, perhaps I could-” Before his meaty hand could rest upon her shoulder, her own smaller one was swiftly grasping the knife sheathed at his belt and drawing it out. The tip of the blade was quick to slash up his shirt and rest beneath his chin. She dug the tip in just enough to draw a speck of blood. “Lay a hand on me, sir, and I will cut you...from navel to nose…” How was it that she was so frightened but feeling so exhilarated at the same time? A smirk fell onto her mouth...until she realized how quiet the tavern had gotten, and there were footsteps all around her. This man had friends, it seemed.
Teeth bit down upon her bottom lip, and she was suddenly acting coy, “You, uh...wouldn’t hit a lady, would you?” What a way to throw your status in their face, Juliet. Almost rolling her eyes at her inner thoughts, she caught sight of someone stepping up in her peripheral. When she dared to look, she was staring at a darker-skinned elder woman, grinning at her with missing teeth. Right, so, a woman could still hit a woman. Panic set in as she swiftly stepped aside to rush across the tavern, hiking up the skirt of that lovely dress to step over a couple of empty chairs in her way. [d]
[JONATHAN] The merchant ship he had arrived on was docked for several days, and just like every land they came to--he had a choice: Leave on the ship when it left. Or stay. He had never found a reason to stay, yet. Perhaps he just enjoyed jumping from one land to the next and being out on the ocean. He was meant to be out on the ocean. But occasionally it was nice to be on dry land, as he was now. He sat in the tavern with some of the other crew members from their ship-- their second night on land. It was loud in there, mainly from his group of men, cheering, drinking, playing games and laughing. One of the men was actually busting out a song with the band playing off in the corner. Jonathan just sat there watching everyone, a permanent smirk on his lips. They were a good group of men. Mostly.
"Aren't ye gonna join in the games, Jonathan ol' boy?" One of the men shouted, clapping him hard on the back. He laughed and took a long sip of his ale, shaking his head. "I'm out of this round...But maybe next one!" He grinned, raising his glass as if making a promise toast.
His dark eyes scanned the room and he spotted the strange woman in what appeared to be a wedding gown-- a bit out of place here, it would seem. And she seemed to have gotten herself into some trouble. He slowly stood, mostly because he was curious, but also, he couldn't bear to stand seeing a lass in trouble, whether she deserved it or not. As she climbed over the chairs and nearly ran into him, he caught her and swung her around so his back was to the group trying to pursue her and he hid her before he led her around a corner and out of their view, making them confused and wonder where she was. When they moved past them, he looked down at her and grinned with that charming smile of his. "That was close..." [d]
[JULIET] This was stupid. This was so stupid. Why did she ever think this was a good idea? Soon enough, her family would realize she was missing and come looking for her, but would they even think to look at the tavern? Perhaps that was the reason why she had come here, subconsciously. Really, though, was this marriage truly that terrible? She didn't know Daniel all that well...but she had heard stories. Yet, even that wasn't the reason why she fled now. For her life, apparently. She knew the woman was quick on her heels as she scrambled through the crowded tavern, being pretty spry on her feet. This came from years of growing up with three brothers, but that didn't mean she was equipped to get into a bar brawl! Before she could figure out what on earth she was going to do next, she was almost barreling into someone and she felt a pair of hands on her shoulders swinging her around. Until she was stopped, staring wide-eyed at some blue-eyed stranger. "Uh, yes," she breathed, hearing the pissed off men roam by. Juliet shut her eyes briefly as if that would further hide her...until one dark hue opened, eventually followed by the other and she was attempting to peer around the corner. When one of the men happened to be taking his time, only passing by that second, she was gasping and standing up straight again. "Another one of your brilliant ideas, Juliet," she murmured to herself, as if she was the only one there. Realizing that she wasn't, her cheeks flushed slightly and regarded the man...who she prayed wasn't just another creep. "Thank you..." [d]
[JONATHAN] He watched as the last man wandered past them and he laughed, glancing down at her curiously. "You're welcome... Though I hope I did not just help a fugitive who stole a wedding dress or something?" He tilted his head regarding her carefully. It wasn't every day you saw a lady wander, or running around a tavern in a wedding dress. "Should I keep my eye out for an angry husband, or have you gotten lost on your way to your honeymoon?" Oh, he was prying and should probably just shut up. But he couldn't. He was curious now. "Sorry." He took a step away from her, giving her space now that the people she was running from were out of view and he didn't need to hide her anymore. [d]
[JULIET] They may have wandered out of view for now, but for how long? Would she be able to sneak out of the tavern...where would she go? Blinking, Juliet tried to clear her head of these questions when this man began to talk. No, question her. "A fugitive? Well, I never...!" Did she look like some rogue? He should certainly know! At the mention of an angry husband, she swallowed a lump in her throat as a look of panic washed over her face. When he took that step away, she felt like she could breathe a little easier, but not quite. She was clawing at that beautifully embroidered underbust that her mother squeezed her into. "I, um...fled the reception?" Her voice drifted into a question when she realized she was telling a complete stranger this. Yep, this was going so well. "Oh, my God...this was so stupid. I need to go, I need to get out of here..." Although she was rambling, Juliet was still feeling that invigorating rush of excitement...while, at the same time, probably having a panic attack. Fingers were nimbly undoing the clasps on that corset to remove it, gasping for air. "Maybe, I could sell my jewelry...find a ship. Yes, a ship!" she exclaimed, nudging the man in the shoulder as if he was in on this whole conversation inside her head. She really wasn't crazy, but...it probably looked at it. [d]
[JONATHAN] He had only been joking when he called her a fugitive, but that had clearly gone over her head and she misjudged it. It didn't matter though--she had already moved passed that when she admitted she ran from her wedding reception. Oh, this was good.. This was interesting. He laughed in disbelief, eyes lifting from her and glancing around. "So should we...uh...be expecting to see your husband searching for you now?" But she was rambling as he asked the question, seemingly fighting with herself and her conscience. A brow rose in curiosity and concern. "A ship?" She nudged him and she scratched his head in confusion now. He should really just walk away. Most likely, probably. He couldn't help but laugh. "You need to go somewhere?" He asked. "My men and I are from a merchant ship..." He pointed to the table where most of the crew sat, rowdy and laughing amongst each other. "We can take you... as long as we won't be hearing from your angry husband.... for helping you get away..." He smirked, that charming smile of his as he regarded her for a moment. "And you'd have to ditch the dress..." [d]
[JULIET] Maybe she should hush and just take a moment to think before this man thought she was completely out of her mind. Juliet had a tendency to just jump into things without thinking things through fully...and this was one of those situations, except this was really bad. Closing her eyes, she took in a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to calm her nerves. Maybe she should try and answer his questions...even though she probably shouldn't be trusting a dashing stranger in a tavern full of brutes. "Yes, I need to leave," she began, attempting to explain. "I can't...I can't stay here anymore." For so many reasons, ones she didn't bother to explain because apparently he was a part of a crew himself. Those doe eyes lit up. "You are? You can?" She didn't mention Daniel, because, well...she really didn't know how he would react. Maybe it was this man's charming smile, but she was grinning now herself...until he mentioned the dress. Juliet looked down at herself in a bit of concern. "But, I've nothing else..." [d]
[JONATHAN] "Hmmm... That is a problem..." He said sarcastically, tapping his finger against his chin. "Wait here." He ushered her to a table and urged her to sit before he wandered off and made his way to the bar where a woman was tending. He waited patiently, leaning against the counter top, flashing that grin. When the woman came over to him, he spoke to her quietly, seemingly making the woman blush. A few words were exchanged and the woman was nodding before walking off. He turned around, leaning his back up against the counter, peering back over to where Juliet sat, and he watched her, with that nervous demeanor she had going on. If they took her along, would she end up regretting it and make them turn back around? He laughed at the thought and shook his head. The woman was returning with a satchel stuffed full that she handed to Jonathan. He smiled to her and gave her a wink. "Thank you." He said to her, before stepping away and moving to sit across from Juliet, handing her the satchel. It was filled with some new clothing items for her along with some shoes that would hopefully all fit. "If these don't work... You can hit up the village market tomorrow morning?" He set a key down on the table in front of her. "You can stay upstairs in one of the rooms, for now... Until we leave." He leaned back in his seat and folded his arms over his chest. "I'm Jonathan, by the way..." [d]
[JULIET] No, this was definitely insane. She kept trying to tell herself that it wasn't...but it was. All of a sudden, she was trusting some stranger and a crew full of men to take her away from here. What was wrong with her? Juliet was frightened...but invigorated at the same time. And that was a dangerous conversation. As he led her to a table, those brown eyes were looking around frantically, expecting to see those brutes still around. They probably were, but the tavern was so crowded that she might be safe. Then again, she was sitting there in a wedding dress. When she felt like she was still safe, her attention drifted over to her charming savior as he appeared to be schmoozing one of of the tavern girls. Oh my. She found herself staring, blinking when he finally brought the satchel full of clothes over to her. Juliet did her best not to cringe, wondering how...filthy those clothes might be. That wasn't enough to keep her from doing this, though. "Thank you," she finally said. Then she was surprised at the key. "I'm Juliet..." A small, embarrassed smile found its way to her lips. Fingers reached for that room key, playing with it a little on top of the table, and she just had to ask, "Why...are you helping me?" [d]
[JONATHAN] If she wanted to be an adventurer and live on the sea, she would need to get used to dirty. He extended his hand to shake hers in introduction as they exchanged names with one another. Then, she was asking him a very good question. Why was he helping her? He laughed and folded his arms over his chest again. "Hoping to get you into the sheets, maybe?" He smirked and tilted his head, regarding her for a moment before laughing. "I'm kidding.." He shook his head. This was how Jonathan was... a prankster, a charmer, a deviant. "Truthfully?" He pondered his answer and shrugged his shoulders. "Why not?" He leaned forward then, folding his hands to rest on the table. "I have a sister of my own... And if she were a woman in distress...trying to run from her husband... I would want someone out there to help her..." [d]
[JULIET] Shaking his hand, she was quickly withdrawing it with his comment. She actually gasped in disgust, her lips parting to clearly berate him until he was telling her that he was joking. But Juliet couldn't help but watch him with unsure eyes. He was handsome- she wasn't blind- and he knew it...so he probably got away with a lot of things. So, excuse her for being a little cautious now; clutching that satchel of clothes against herself. The mention of a sister only eased her nerves a little, and she swallowed the lump in her throat. Finally, she eased back in her seat, shielding half her face with her hand. "You must think I'm insane...I think I'm insane." Just a little. Okay, maybe a lot. [d]
[JONATHAN] "Aren't we all?" He laughed and shrugged his shoulders. He thought that was true. What was normal, anyway? He leaned back in his seat and looked at her, studying her even before he sighed. "So.... Will you tell me why you ran?" Of course she didn't have to, but maybe it would help him think her less insane if he truly had a good reason to help her out. "You don't have to.... But, I kind of want to hear your story..." He smirked before waving over a tavern worker and ordering himself a drink. "What would you like, doll?" He questioned her, motioning to the tavern woman to also bring whatever Juliet requested. [d]
[JULIET] That caused her to smirk slightly, and her back wasn't as ramrod straight anymore. Still, those brown eyes were wandering around the tavern again as a precaution until they inevitably fell back to Jonathan. She wondered if she should tell him and was contemplating it when the tavern girl came over to take their drink order. "Oh, um...an ale? Please." She'd only ever had wine before, but heard ale was rather good. When the woman walked away, she went back to the question that was left in the air. "I...don't even know him," she began, speaking of Daniel, her husband. "And I heard stories...about him..." She shook her head, dismissing that thought. It could literally just all be gossip. "But I...couldn't take the stuffiness of life anymore. Ever since I was little, I wanted to sail, to travel. My brothers got to." There was a little bit of stubborn jealousy in her voice now. Childish, maybe, but why did the men get to have all the fun? "What is it like?" she asked him, leaning forward to rest her arms upon the table. "The ocean?" [d]
[JONATHAN] A brow rose at her admitting that she didn't even know her husband. "Stories? What kind of stories?" He could only imagine what these stories were if they were enough to make her run. It made him want to help her more. She kept rambling though about her brothers and wanting to sail and travel. "The ocean? Sailing?" He asked in response to her question. "Hmmm..." He tried to think. "It can be peaceful one moment, and dangerous the next... it's complete freedom, but also sometimes isolating..." He shrugged his shoulders. "But exploring...seeing new lands, visiting different places... It's nice." The tavern girl came back and set the two mugs of ale down, Jonathan thanked her and picked his up taking a long sip. He set it back on the table and sighed. "Are you good at anything? Have any skills?" [d]
[JULIET] Oh, maybe she had said too much, and she was quick to bite down on her lip as if that would take it all back. Perhaps that was a story for another time. Right now, she was actually afraid that Daniel would find her here. There were still plenty of hours until the morning. As Jonathan explained the ocean, she found herself leaning forward just a little bit more; a gentle smile creasing her lips. "It sounds...wonderful." Even while it sounded treacherous. She was almost imagining it before the tavern girl came back with their drinks, snapping her back to reality. Hand reached for the mug to stare down into it, hesitating when he asked if she had any skills. Well, nothing that would be helpful on a merchant ship, certainly. She appeared almost embarrassed now. "Well, I..." No. No real skills. "My eldest brother taught me how to use a sword...a little. I'm a quick learner!" In other words...Sorry, sir, I'm pretty much useless right now. You might want to forget about this little arrangement. [d]
[JONATHAN] He laughed as she said it sounded wonderful. At times it could be, but other times it grew old and they were landing just in time before they were all about to kill each other. She really had no idea. Though, he supposed a woman who was used to being stuck in the stuffiness of life, it would seem the adventurous life would be more appealing. An eyebrow rose as she admitted that she was taught to use a sword. a little. He laughed again. "Seriously, lady?" He scratched his chin and shook his head. "You're going to have to come up with something better than that..... The Captain is going to put you to work if you're on board... Or you'll have to pay a pretty amount of gold for passage...Do you cook? Clean? Anything like that?" Oh yes, he was being stereotypical. What woman didn't know how to cook? [d]
[JULIET] Anything sounded better than what she was dealing with. And perhaps that was horrible of her to think. She had a decent childhood, always had a roof over her head, food in her belly. She had a safe life, a wealthy one...something that not everyone had. She had always been told how fortunate she was, so then why did she want to give it all up? Was this a ridiculous idea? Would she change her mind before getting on that ship? Could she really trust this crew, this man she barely even knew? At his reaction, her brows furrowed together. Maybe if she had a blade (having dropped that knife she'd taken during her scrambling) she could show him a thing or two! George had done well with teaching her enough, she thought...until mother found out and quickly disapproved of it. "Anything like that?" she repeated, clearly offended. Juliet took a few sips of that ale- taking a moment to realize that it was rather delicious- before slamming the mug down in her annoyance. "Are you insinuating that you men are incapable of doing such easy tasks yourselves?" Maybe he wasn't, but she now was insinuating it. Another sip. "I'm capable of any work if given the chance, you...filthy ship rat. I am a quick learner, understand? Maybe I could best you." Of course, she had no idea what he did, exactly, but the wine from the reception to calm her nerves and this ale was making her awfully confrontational. Was it supposed to do that? [d]
[JONATHAN] "Filthy ship rat?!" He laughed, a brow raising at her. Did she really just call him that? He lifted an arm to sniff his armpit before glancing back at her. "I bathe. I'm not that filthy..." He laughed before shaking his head. "I am not insinuating anything. Sorry if I offended... it's just that... it would be helpful to have a homemaker on board...someone to help us cook and clean. We are quite capable... And maybe you could best me. Or maybe not." He shrugged, that charming smile of his never faltering. [d]
[JULIET] She actually felt bad, and embarrassed, for the name calling. Truly, she didn't know what had suddenly come over her. Perhaps it was now or never to do the most unthinkable thing imaginable. "Could have fooled me..." she murmured quietly into that cup. Dammit, stop! You're embarrassing yourself. She took a few more sips of the alez relishing the flavor of it. Why had she never had this before? Brown eyes narrowed lightly at the charming not-so-filthy ship rat. "So... you're asking me to do what I would basically already be doing were I to stay?" She chuckled. It wasn't much to ask, but she was being stubborn. And maybe becoming a little tipsy. She hadn't eaten much at the feast because she feared she would become ill. A hand went to shield half her face. "This is ridiculous," she finally said, surprised at herself. "I... don't even know, or them!" She pointed at his crewmates. "I'm a naive girl willing to hop on a boat full of-" Juliet studied him quietly for a moment before that hand was now waving at him in gesture. "Rougish men." Naive indeed. That idea, in and of itself, was foolish. And dangerous. Regardless of the fact that he seemed to genuinely be helping her. [d]
[JONATHAN] This lady was severely conflicted. One minute she was ready to rush off as soon as possible. The next, she was doubting herself and coming to realization that what she was about to do was not only crazy, but dangerous. She didn't know any of them, so how could she be sure that she'd be safe. He couldn't help but laugh at her. She was naive, and it was a bit humorous to him. With a sigh, he turned around to look at the crew and he whistled to get their attention. They all glanced up at him and he motioned them over. "Come meet Juliet..a new ship mate." The men stood up from their seats and filed into a line, each one stepped up to Juliet and either shook her hand or placed a kiss upon her knuckles in greeting. They were all well behaved, respectful, warm and welcome. And when they all sat down around them now, Jonathan leaned into Juliet and spoke quietly into her ear. "Bunch of savage rogues alright!" He laughed, sitting up straighter and sipping his ale. [d]
[JULIET] Naive was putting it lightly. Gently, even. He wouldn't know that she has never done this sort of thing before, and her mind was reeling. It was so very scary but still, that exhilaration would not go away. She imagined it would only get worse once she set foot on the ship. Also, she might be nearing drunk, but it was a little too soon to tell. But that cup of hers was empty, and she was such a lithe thing. What Jonathan did next took her by surprise. Juliet watched as the crew got up...and even filed into a line to take their turn to greet her. It was actually kind of...well, heartwarming. They had better manners than some socialites she'd met. Jules did her best to say hello to each of them, but she was grinning in a rather dumbfounded way, from ear to ear. They certainly weren't pirates! As Jonathan leaned in, she laughed, watching as they all joined their little table. "A bunch of...dashing rogues, maybe," she said, waving to the old man seated nearby who smiled warmly at her with missing teeth. She turned back to Jonathan, pressing a hand to her face again as she felt the embarrassment begin to return. "I'm sorry. I'm not usually this...weird." Not entirely anyway. "It's been a rather trying day..." You know, with the wedding and all. Brown eyes glanced down to that ridiculously extravagant emerald ring on her finger...studying it for a moment before pulling it off. "Next few rounds is on me, gentlemen!" [d]
[JONATHAN] He laughed at her comment. Yes, dashing rogues indeed. Especially himself. That grin formed on his face again when she was apologizing, and he waved his hand as if to excuse her. "Don't worry about it." He finished off his ale before sighing. "Anyway... No one is going to force you to come along. The choice is entirely yours. But now you know everyone...at least by name and face...And you're welcome to come along."
He watched her as she stared at that ring on her finger. It was rather large and beautiful--surely she could get some good money for it. Eyebrow rose though when she removed it and announced that the next rounds were on her. The men cheered and praised her, then, and a tavern girl came over to take everyone's orders. Jonathan leaned in again to speak to Juliet. "You don't have to do that." [d]
[JULIET] If he didn't notice, she had plenty of other jewels to go around. Even the dress she wore would fetch a pretty penny, especially if she didn't spill ale on it. Besides, that bloody ring felt like an anchor on her finger right now. If she was going to do this, if she was going to really leave, then she had to lose everything. "Thanks." She grinned at him, feeling a little more at ease. Was the worry completely gone? Of course not...but right now, she simply wanted to forget what she was running from and of those consequences that may arise, and simply enjoy herself. For once. Ordering another ale, she waved him off. "I'm happy to buy my new friends some drinks." She said that a little loudly, causing some of the crew to cheer. That grin widened a bit more in response. "So then, Mr..." A pause, she realized he hadn't shared his last name. "Jonathan...what is it that you do? Besides save random girls in taverns." Or woo them out of their skirts, most likely as well. [d]
[JONATHAN] He ordered himself another ale as well before regarding Juliet as she questioned him. What is it that he did? Well, that certainly was a great question. A man nearby, hearing her question laughed and nudged Jonathan. "Oh this guy?! A whole lot of nothing!" He squeezed his shoulder and grinned. "Nah... he's a good man... Works hard when he wants to!" Jonathan shook his head and laughed. "Thanks... that's quite enough Leroy." He turned back to Juliet. "I handle all the sails.. Catch fish. And when we're on land, make all the deals and trades." He shrugged. "Not a whole lot, I suppose..." [d]
[JULIET] "Is that so..." she murmured in amusement as Leroy jokingly began to answer for him. Perhaps this fella was just all talk and no action. His comrade made it clear he was joking, but her brows were lifting up in gesture. "Only when he wants to," she repeated, her eyes regarding Jonathan. "I see..." When he actually took a moment to explain, he tried to pass it off as nothing. "Seems like a whole lot to me," she added as the tavern girl began bringing over everyone's drinks. The men cheered and Juliet was already taking a sip of her ale. Then another sip. Suddenly, a few of the men began to stomp their feet as others clapped their feet, beginning to sing. It took Juliet by surprise, but wide curious eyes turned to them. Apparently, they had been in the tavern awhile now...and may have already had a few drinks. "Oh, Sally Brown, she's a nice young lady, Way, hay, roll and go. And we rolled all night, And we rolled all day, Spend our money on Sally Brown!" [d]
[JONATHAN] Only when he wants to, yes, Jonathan was known for busying himself with ahem other things, in his bed, from time to time--shirking his work duties. But he always made up for them later! He laughed and shrugged his shoulders at her as she tried to make his responsibilities seem like they were a lot. He really didn't see it that way, there could have been more to do, but their crew was a well oiled machine, and they all worked well together and got what needed to be done, done. The drinks came, and Jonathan reached for his, taking a long sip. The other men started so sing and stomp their feet, putting on a show for everyone in the tavern, and Jonathan laughed, leaning back in his seat to watch, nudging Juliet. "Now look what you've done..." He grinned, and eventually started to sing along, because, hell, why not? [d]
[JULIET] "Me?" she questioned when he nudged her. Well, whether she started this or not, she suddenly seemed completely enthralled by the display of camaraderie. Her smile spread wide across her face before looking back to the singing sailors. Oh, how she wished she knew the words to this song! It was almost strange how, in this very moment, she didn't feel so much like a stranger. How did that happen so quickly? Ale. It had to be the ale that was suddenly filling her up with such a warmth. She erupted into laughter as the old man- Harry she quickly remembered- was drawing her up to dance while Leroy grabbed the tavern girl who was simply trying to do her job. "I'm afraid I don't know this dance!" she confessed to Harry but drifted to his side to try and mimic his footing to the best of her ability anyway. The thing about Juliet was, she really was a quick learner. It was this strange skill that she hadn't necessarily been lying about. She watched the fancy footwork just a couple times before making an attempt; falling into a fit of laughter as she managed to do it. And what a sight she probably made- a bride dancing among the tavern ruffians. What would her mother think? [d]
[JONATHAN] He laughed and nodded at her. Yes, it was her fault. He watched as Harry and Juliet danced, laughing quietly at the sight. He clapped and stomped his foot as he sang along with the group. He wasn't the dancing type, but he'd still participate with the fun. When the song finally came to an end, one of the men was quick to start up with another song. So it’s cheer up my lads, let your hearts never fail, While the bonny ship, the Diamond, goes a-fishing for the whale. Jonathan shook his head and laughed again. They got going and now there'd be no stopping them. [d]
[JULIET] She was being led around the table, a couple of the sailors beginning to dance around in a circle. Reaching over Jonathan' shoulder, she was grabbing her mug of ale along the way before she was off again in a fit of laughter. It would seem the men didn't stop at just one song, already drifting into another. If they kept this up, the whole tavern would be joining in. None of her family's parties were this much fun!
[BILLY] After making sure all supplies and cargo were accounted for, the quartermaster walked the quiet docks this evening to head towards the tavern. And the closer he got, the more he could hear the commotion from inside. He had no doubt that it was his crew enjoying this time on dry land. As he entered, hit with the loudness of it, he spotted them immediately and belted out the next verse of the song, "...with their shawls about their heads and salt tears runnin' down. I'll never weep my bonny lad though I'm left behind, for there's not a rose on Greenland's ice to make you change your mind!" The other men laughed in their greeting, one of them drawing the young man closer to the group to hand him a cup of ale. That was when his light eyes fell upon a particular face that stood out among the ugly mugs surrounding him. And she was no tavern girl. Funny how his attention quickly shifted to Delaney in accusation, who had a knack for causing strange problems. He was praying to whatever god would listen that the man didn't schmooze some poor, defenseless rich girl into whatever-the-hell. [d]
[JONATHAN] Oh yes, he sure did have quite the knack for causing strange problems, though that was a harsh word..perhaps maybe just situations. Though none of the crew were complaining about this situation. He caught a glimpse of Billy and shot him an innocent grin, raising his glass of ale before sipping at it. Billy had to admit--He kept things interesting, did he not? Jonathan motioned for Billy to look at Juliet and he waggled his eyebrows as if to say, "look what I found" There had been no schmoozing. Well, not his usual amount, anyway. [d]
[BILLY] That look...he didn't quite trust it. It was clear the girl was highborn, and- correct him if he was wrong- she was wearing a wedding gown...? Billy was turning to look back at her just as the dancing line of figures was approaching and she nearly barreled into him. But the quartermaster stood still, curiously looking down at her laughing face, at the same time bringing his drink to his lips.
[JULIET] "Oh!" she exclaimed, coming to an abrupt halt as she was suddenly staring at a broad chest. Those dark eyes had to rise up, higher and higher to find the man's face. "Oh," she said again. My, wasn't he tall! And younger than most of the crew. "My apologies, I-" But she didn't get to finish as Harry was dragging her away again, causing her to almost spill what was left of her drink.
[BILLY] He almost laughed at her reaction, eyes shifted as she was pulled away. Then he was moving to sit next to Delaney with that questioning look once more. "So..." He simply said, giving the man an opening to explain why the crew was passing around some highborn girl, and in the most innocently way possible. [d]
[JONATHAN] He knew what Billy was getting at and he laughed. "Oh, don't give me that!! I had nothing to do with this..." He pointed at the group and the woman in the wedding dress. "Mostly..." he nodded with a grin. "Mostly I had nothing to do with it." He laughed. Seymour's gang were after her because she made him spill a drink...I hid her from them and she told me she wanted to find a ship and leave, so I offered her passage." He shrugged his shoulders like it wasn't a big deal. "She's a quick learner though...so she'll be steering the ship in no time." He grinned and laughed slightly. [d]
[BILLY] Excuse him for not believing Delaney for one second. This had him written all over it. "Uh huh..." he murmured into his cup as he took a few sigs of that ale. Then the man was explaining, and it nearly made Billy spit out his drink. "You...offered her passage?" Did he not hear him correctly over the ruckus the crew was making? "Did you ask the captain about this, or, I don't know...the first mate?" Which would be him, sitting right there in front of him. Captain Samuel Wright was a good, decent man, but..."A highborn girl doesn't belong on a merchant ship, Delaney. I don't think Wright's going to like this." But what did he know? That man often surprised him. [d]
[JONATHAN] "I'm about to ask you now." Jonathan grinned that charming, innocent grin at Billy before he sighed. "She wants to get out of her highborn life and wants to sail...learn
to sale... and explore." He shrugged his shoulders. "If it doesn't work out, I'm sure she'd be fine with us dropping her off at the next stop... Just to get her away. Hell if I know. It'll be fine. If it's not, you can kick my ass overboard." He laughed and motioned over to her. "The guys seem to get along with her and she's keeping them entertained and happy..." He grinned again, taking a sip of his ale. [d]
[BILLY] His eyes narrowed upon him, but he was almost too tired to argue with him right now. The captain may or may not mind- it would all depend. As Delaney explained, however, Billy's eyes drifted back to the girl. "Who would want to leave a life of money?" he wondered out loud. It sounded like she was too drunk to realize just what she was getting into, and he supposed he'd have to remind her of it in the morning. If she didn't already run off by then. After taking another swig of ale, he pointed a finger at Jonathan, "This is on you. I'm holding you responsible." Nearly rolling his eyes, that cup back to his lips, his gaze drifted back to the men as the song ended. They would be at this all night if he allowed them.
[JULIET] Completely lost in the fun of it all, her laughter erupted from her chest as she was quickly forgetting who she was and what she had been running from. It also could have been that third mug of ale she was nursing. Perhaps she should stop. The song ended and so did the dance, but one of the crew was belting out for her to sing something- they couldn't possibly be the only entertainers! "Me?" she questioned and her smile was nervous. "No, I don't th-" "Come now, lass. It's only fair!" the sailor called back. "Call it...your initiation." A hand pressed to her forehead as she carefully put her cup down onto the table. "I, um...well, I know a part of one song..." She had heard it from this very tavern while visiting the ships with Father one day. "Let's hear it then!" Harry nudged. Gritting her teeth, she stood up straight and tried to smooth out the front of that beautifully beaded dress. Were she more sober, she would have argued this until she died, but...she wanted adventure, so... "His hair it hangs in ringlets His eyes as black as coal My happiness attend him Wherever he may go From Tower Hill to Blackwall I'll wander, weep and moan All for my jolly sailor Until he sails home..." To her surprise, two barmaids (perhaps where she had first heard this song from originally) joined in on the chorus with her, and Juliet tried to keep singing with a ridiculously wide smile on her face. "My heart is pierced by Cupid I disdain all glittering gold There is nothing can console me But my jolly sailor bold." [d]
[JONATHAN] He only shrugged his shoulders in response to Billy's question about someone wanting to leave the life of money. He imagined it were only the people who didn't have wealth that would ask that sort of question. He grinned as Billy decided to place blame and responsibility over the woman and Jonathan laughed. "Yeah...yeah..." He waved him off, finishing his mug of ale and glanced back over to where Juliet was, suddenly starting her own song that no one but the barmaids sang along to. "See....She can teach us new songs.." He chuckled softly and nudged Billy. Jonathan clearly wasn't worried, so why should anyone else be? [d]
[BILLY] Well, that was it, these drunkards were stupidly enamored with the poor girl and slowly accepting her into their rowdy brood. He shook his head at Delaney as he laughed lightly in return. "Bringing a woman on board is bad luck, y'know...or so they say." He was shrugging now because he had no idea where that superstition came from. But good ol' sailors were men, who arrived back home to the women. Speaking of, he hadn't missed one of the tavern girls eyeing him a moment ago, so he returned the favor as he took another sip of ale. It hadn't been the first time he'd noticed her, either.
[JULIET] Unfortunately (or fortunately?), she didn't know any of the other verses...so as the two women continued to sing a bit more, Juliet simply curtseyed before reaching for her ale again. It was nearly finished, and she thought that this should probably be her last one. She frowned at the thought. [d]
JONATHAN] "Yeah... And like we don't already have bad luck without a woman on board?" He laughed and shook his head. He didn't believe in all those damn superstitions. Women had to travel too...and all of the ships carrying women didn't sink. It was a dumb superstition. His eyes followed Billy's gaze as it landed on one of the tavern girls, and he laughed. "Sometimes you're just as bad as I am... so I don't think it's fair you give me a hard time." He nudged him hard before he stood up and stretched. He did a little mockful bow at Billy before walking off and over to where Juliet was. He'd stand there, arms folded over his chest as he watched her sing until she stopped, seeing her eyeing her ale. "Can I get you another?" he questioned her. [d]
[BILLY] Well...he had a point. Billy didn't necessarily believe it, but there were ships out there- merchant vessels specifically- that believed in such things. He didn't know where it came from. As Delaney commented about him being as bad as he was, he chuckled but didn't shift his eyes from the girl. "The difference between you and me...is that I don't just fuck and forget, mate. This has been a long pursuit..." Although he still didn't know her name or whether she was spoken for. But those batting eyes made it quite clear that she wasn't. When Jonathan nudged him, he finally broke his gaze as his ale sloshed out over the rim and onto his shirt. "Oi! Ye shithead!" he called after him, but he was still laughing nonetheless.
[JULIET] She was certainly feeling all warm right now. And forgetful. She was glancing down at herself and that dress, wondering why on earth she would wear such an extravagant gown to a tavern. That was silly, wasn't it? "Hmm?" she was inquiring when she heard Jonathan speak, but her eyes were slow to look over at him. Then her gaze averted back to her empty mug and she was quick to nod. "Oh yes, please." [d]
[JONATHAN] He didn't fuck and forget. Not all the time, at least. He couldn't help it if their ship never returned to certain lands again. If they did return...Maybe he wouldn't forget. He laughed at Billy as he yelled over at him, calling him a shithead for making him spill his drink. Wouldn't be the first time he'd be called that. He grinned as Juliet nodded, wanting another mug of ale and he stepped away again, moving over to the bar where that one particular barmaid was that Billy was eyeing. He leaned against the bar and winked at her. "Can I get two more ales, please?" The woman was suddenly all flustered by Jonathan, then, and went to retrieve the ale. He turned and glanced to Billy and grinned innocently at him, before he turned back around just as the woman came back with the two mugs. He laughed and urged her to lean in closer to him like he had a secret and he spoke quietly just enough for her to hear. "My friend back there... The one you are eying... He told me he wants to fuck you all night long..." He grinned and stood up straight. The woman became completely flustered again, as if her breath had been caught in her chest. Jonathan nodded to her and winked again before walking away with the two mugs of ale, handing one to Juliet, and sipping the other one. [d]
[BILLY] In the middle of trying to dry his shirt (not that it was the cleanest thing to begin with), he noticed Jonathan looking over at him with that damned grin of his...only to lean in to whisper, probably sweet nothings, into that particular girl's ear. Oh, so he was going to play that game, huh? Unfortunately, he didn't know exactly what the idiot had said, and the barmaid seemed unsure of what to do with whatever it was. "Delaney!" he called out in warning, but as he stood up, it were as if he had forgotten how tall and broad he was, and accidentally knocked into Harry...who proceeded to spill his drink on his already stained shirt. Blue eyes rolled up into whites as he tilted his head back in defeat. This night was going swell.
[JULIET] The tall one's outburst startled her for a moment, but she found herself giggling when the others began to. Poor guy, he looked tired and completely defeated for whatever reason...but she was forgetting about it when that ever-grinning fella was bringing her another ale. "Delaney," she repeated when Billy had used it. "Thank you." Perhaps trying to commit names to memory while she probably wouldn't remember half of these evening in the morning was most likely a silly idea. But, at least she was trying. She held her cup in a small salute before taking a sip. "How did you...find these wonderful gentlemen?" she asked. [d]
[JONATHAN] He heard Billy yell his name and watched as he was splashed with another drink. He chuckled softly and he watched as that barmaid went to Billy with another ale, handing it to him nervously. "I um.... your friend told me something..." her eyes shifted to where Jonathan was and she laughed nervously. "I was thinking.. maybe we could go upstairs, then?" Your welcome, Billy! Jonathan laughed and turned back to Juliet "They're not my crew... but I found them while looking for work. They took me in." He shrugged his shoulders. [d]
[BILLY] "Dammit, Har!" he exclaimed in exasperation. The old man was glaring at him because it had technically been the quartermaster's fault. But before he could say or do anything more, that particular tavern girl was approaching with a fresh pint, starting to say something about Jonathan. "Whatever he said to you, I can assure you that-" Wait, what? Well, that took the tall sailor off guard and he probably looked completely dumbfounded. "I, uh...um...okay...?" It was Harry he heard snickering beside him and who had taken that fresh ale from his hand (since Billy spilled most of his), ushering the lad away to go follow the pretty girl upstairs.
[JULIET] She was watching the tall one stammering on nearby. Was he blushing? Juliet giggled quietly into that cup while Jonathan replied. "Ah. Then they are a good group of chaps, indeed." And maybe...just maybe... she'd find her place among them? It seemed like such a silly idea right now, but she felt too invigorated to care. "I do hope I can do this..." she was mainly murmuring to herself. She almost sounded completely sober, too. But she meant taking this giant leap, living on the sea, hoping for it to be as grand as she expected. Well, mostly expected. [d]
[JONATHAN] He couldn't hide that mischievous grin on his face as Billy was stammering and started to follow the girl. Now Billy owed him one. He glanced back to Juliet and chuckled. "Well, you have until tomorrow morning to make up your mind... And I've been warned that I'm responsible for whatever you do... So no pressure on making me look bad or anything like that." He laughed and shook his head. Silly superstitions. He sighed, taking a long sip of his ale. The crew had started with another sing, though this time a slow harmonizing melody. Jonathan wasn't familiar though. [d]
[JULIET] "Responsible?" she echoed, brown eyes blinking as she looked to him in soft surprise. Then it slowly made sense (silly drunken mind) and that grin slowly began to spread wide across her face. Maybe there was even a glint of deviousness in her gaze now. "Is that so...?" A finger pressed against her lips in contemplation. "That makes this all the more tempting now, Mr. Delaney. You probably shouldn't have told me that." Of course, she was kidding, but even still. [d]
[JONATHAN] "Oh, does it now?" He grinned. "I've been told many times that things involving me are often tempting..." He laughed and winked at her. But then he shrugged his shoulders. "It's alright... I'll just be tossed overboard if they don't like you...Or you cause any problems. No big deal." He laughed. [d]
[JULIET] She looked at him curiously. He had this charm about him...in a kind of prideful, conceited sort of way, she realized. That wasn't necessarily a bad thing, but she imagined it got him into a lot of trouble. But his following words actually had her pausing midway to taking another sip of her ale; her brown eyes wide. Now, sober Juliet would have realized that he was joking, but...the poor girl was beyond being able to understand that right now. Any sane girl would have realized this was a major risk, surrounding herself with roguish men...but she just ran away from her wedding reception. There was nothing logical about this evening. "Oh my gosh, will they really?" she asked in a panic. Fingers even lifted to press against her mouth in alarm. Dear God. If her normal self could just see her now...she would be cringing in embarrassment. [d]
[JONATHAN] Oh yes, it did get him into a lot of trouble, it seemed... But it was also his charm that got him out of trouble, too. He wasn't sure how the captain would respond to Juliet boarding their ship... Billy didn't seem all that pleased about the idea, so he could only imagine. He would have to figure out some convincing. Though, was this girl really worth the trouble? He didn't know a thing about her, just that he had jumped into helping her right away. He often did things without thinking them all the way through. Finally, he nodded. "Yes, they would....So you best be on your best behavior, alright?" [d]
[JULIET] Now she was taking him seriously and frowned at his answer. Dark eyes flickered back to the men who were laughing, singing, and still drinking, and it was hard to fathom that they would throw anyone overboard. "Hm, well then-" she began, pausing to take a sip of her ale once more. This really should be her last one. Her fingers were getting tingly, and she may have fallen into a laughing fit if the conversation hadn't gotten so dire (at least in her drunken mind it had). "You'll have to show me how to be a proper sailor." She jabbed him in the shoulder playfully. "Teach me your ways, Mr. Delaney." [d]
[JONATHAN] "I hope for both our sakes you really are a quick learner..." He grinned and let out another laugh, finishing off his ale and setting it down on the table. "First lesson, is you need to learn how to hold your liquor better..." He could tell that she was drunk, and he considered seeing if he could somehow taken advantage of her in this state--though, contrary to others' beliefs, he was a lot more respectful than that. "Second lesson... You need to get proper attire... No more of this wedding ballroom thing...and the jewels... Being on board won't be pretty, you have nothing to dress up for, unless you wish to try and impress someone... But I am already impressed, so you won't have to worry about that anymore..." He grinned that innocent charming grin again. "Any questions?" [d]
[JULIET] Brown eyes blinked, eventually focusing on his lips because he was beginning to talk to quickly for her ear drunken mind...as if she'd be able to lip read. She almost rolled those eyes at herself before she became slightly offended. "Hold my liquor better?" What was this, the night to repeat everything he said? "I'll have you know, good sir, that I am completely fine." Oh, no she wasn't. Clearly. "I could walk the ship's railing with perfect balance right now." Nope. She couldn't, but she seemed awfully proud of the fact that she thought she could at the moment. Then, at the mention of her clothes, she was looking down at herself. She did look rather silly in this thing and in this place, didn't she? But at the mention of him already being impressed, she grinned stupidly, "Aw, you are?" Did she have any questions? Juliet appeared to be lost for a second before she answered, "You're a good man, Jonathan. No matter what Leroy says." Well, that was nice...except it wasn't a question. How many drinks did she have? [d]
[JONATHAN] Right. She clearly was not thinking straight and was completely drunk. Still, he couldn't help but chuckle at her words and her confidence that she was totally sober and could walk a straight line balancing on the ship's railing. "Uh huh... I'm sure..." He watched her for a moment, and as she questioned his comment about him being impressed, he didn't bother answering her. She wouldn't remember anyway whether he answered her or not. He shook his head and laughed. "I think it may be time for bed for you. We can start the lessons in the morning..." He motioned to the key on the table and the bag of clean, dry clothes (despite her thinking they were dirty earlier). "Do you need help getting upstairs?" And into bed. Ahem. At least he didn't say it out loud. [d]
[JULIET] Somehow, she was already looking down into an empty mug again and was prepared to go in search for another when he was telling her what to do. "Bed? It's too early for that." Maybe, but she wasn't going to last much longer. The poor dear was going to crash hard and she didn't even realize it yet. But she stomped her way over to that table to grab the bag and key, bidding some of the crew goodnight. "I think I can manage. Perfect. Balance," she accentuated those words with a prideful grin, gliding on over to the steps. Juliet made it up three before her foot slipped and she was leaning against the railing for support. Oh, she was so very graceful. It caused her to burst out into laughter. [d]
[JONATHAN] He watched her, his grin never fading from his lips. She said she could manage and was on her way. Jonathan found himself wondering if she would even remember any of this in the morning. If she would recall wanting to come along with them and leave her life behind. He laughed as she lost her balance and nearly fell down the stairs. "Are you sure you don't need help?" [d]
[JULIET] Somehow, it was the funniest thing in the world to her, how those steps seemed to be warping in front of her eyes. She felt like she was moving, but in fact, she was still standing still with one of her hands gripping tight the railing. The jury was out on how much she would remember tomorrow. She'd arrived here mostly sober and in her right mind, but that ale was doing a number. Juliet had never had so much to drink before. When she tried to take another step, her laughter stopped because now she was becoming a little nervous and unsure whether or not she would fall back. "I, uh...I might need help." There weren't a horrible amount of stairs, but right now, it looked like a million! [d]
[JONATHAN] He really didn't think she was going to make it up those stairs--and he couldn't help but laugh as she seemed to be stuck in the funniest thing in the world right now. He moved closer and stood at the bottom of the stairs, until she finally admitted that she needed help. He laughed again, shaking his head as he moved up to where she was on the stairs and slung her around around his neck and shoulders. He carefully helped her up the stairs and extended his hand to grab that key from her, finding out which room it was so he could unlock and open the door for her. He led her into the room and sat her on the bed. "Well.... It was nice to meet you, Juliet... I will see you in the morning?" [d]
[JULIET] She really didn't think she was going to make it up those stairs, either. No matter how hard she stared at them. When he was finally coming up to help her, she looked back down at the crew in the tavern, waving and blowing them kisses as though she had known for ages. Before she knew it, slight dizziness aside, she was seated on a bed. She bounced a little, testing it and it was awfully springy! It made her grin mildly at herself. Then someone was talking. She found him standing there and nodded. Right, the morning. When she really ran away. Well, at least she was remembering that now. Who knew what the morning would bring. Maybe nothing would change, or maybe she'd completely panic. "Oh, wait!" Speaking of panic. She actually grabbed for his arm to help leverage herself up to stand straight, legs only a little bit wobbly. "Could you, uh...buttons?" She turned a little and gestured to the back of her dress. It was a purely innocent request, because she really couldn't reach back there to do it herself. And she couldn't very sleep in the damned thing. If she remembered, she would burn it later. [d]
[JONATHAN] He was about to leave, but she was grabbing his arm and requesting him to help her unbutton her dress. He nearly choked on his breath and stared at the back of her dress and all the buttons that ran down it. "Uh.... Sure..." He said quietly, stepping up behind her. Despite what others thought of him, he was respectful to women. Quietly, he started to unbutton her dress until he was at the last one. "All set..." He said before taking a step back away from her. But god help him for the thoughts that were running through his head right now. [d]
[JULIET] It really was absurd, the amount of time it took to put a woman into the ridiculous amounts of layers. On top of it, she had worn the corset...which had been discarded somewhere downstairs, probably to never be seen again. But she thought nothing of asking him to help with this task, not until the bodice of the dress loosened. Not even her drunken mind would forget modesty. "Thanks..." Holding the dress against her chest with an arm, she turned slowly to regard him with a tired smile. She said nothing for a long moment before taking a step closer. When it seemed as though she was about to close that gap between them completely, her other hand was resting against his chest...and she began to gently push him backwards towards the door. "See you in the morning, Mr. Delaney." [d]
[JONATHAN] "You're welcome..." He said quietly, eyes watching her as she just stood there silently, and he wondered if she were about to say something or if she was just too drunk to realize that she wasn't talking. Finally, she took a step closer and put her hand on his chest. He swallowed nervously, but then she was pushing him towards the door and bidding him goodnight. He nodded and smirked. "Goodnight." And without another word, he was quick to leave her and went back downstairs with the rest of the drunken crew. [d]
There had been nothing entirely wrong with her life- she had a good childhood, a good home, and a loving family...but it hadn’t been enough to satiate her adventurous heart. Stuffy walls couldn’t push the image of the crashing waves from her mind, the allure of the salt-scented air. Juliet had only ever been on a ship a small handful of times, and they had been for short voyages. She wanted to make this one far longer. The cold bit into her skin, but she gritted her teeth against it as the town was coming into view, and she spotted the tavern up ahead. Certainly, crews would be resting right about now? Not one moment was taken to think about this, to realize how insane this truly was...not even as she slipped down from the horse and marched straight into the tavern. Heat, voices, and the scents of sweat, ale and cooked meat instantly assaulted her senses. It actually made her abruptly pause...especially when a lot of eyes turned their attention to the young woman decked out in a very beautifully beaded and lace dress, with jewels that glinted in the candlelight. Oh, no, she definitely hadn’t thought this through. Eyes scanned the patrons, trying not to cower beneath their scrutinizing gazes. Perhaps she should have stashed her jewelry, but this is what she did- she acted without really thinking, and it foolishly got her into trouble. The door opened behind her, causing her to quickly step forward. This led to a quick series of unfortunate events. Brisk steps made her step upon the already dirty hem of her pale dress, which ultimately made her stumble and bump into a rather large fellow seated at the table in front of her. It made him spill his drink down the front of his shirt...and Juliet was made very aware of just how tall and burly he was as he rose to his full stature to glare down at her.
“Ye owe me another drink-” he growled, pausing as he seemed surprised by the sight of her. “...lass.” He finished, and she didn’t really like the smile that suddenly curled a corner of his mouth. “Say now, that’s an awfully nice dress yer wearin’...and necklace…” For the briefest of moments, Jules wasn’t sure whether or not he was looking at that particular necklace, or her assets beneath it. “I’m assumin’ yer not from around here, eh?” “That is none of your concern,” she said in a steady voice, even if her heart was pounding once more. He was causing her to move away from the door and deeper into the tavern. The man’s menacing eyes glanced back towards the door briefly, amused by the fact that it was quite clear that she was alone. “Not usual for a lady of your...wealth to be unaccompanied, perhaps I could-” Before his meaty hand could rest upon her shoulder, her own smaller one was swiftly grasping the knife sheathed at his belt and drawing it out. The tip of the blade was quick to slash up his shirt and rest beneath his chin. She dug the tip in just enough to draw a speck of blood. “Lay a hand on me, sir, and I will cut you...from navel to nose…” How was it that she was so frightened but feeling so exhilarated at the same time? A smirk fell onto her mouth...until she realized how quiet the tavern had gotten, and there were footsteps all around her. This man had friends, it seemed.
Teeth bit down upon her bottom lip, and she was suddenly acting coy, “You, uh...wouldn’t hit a lady, would you?” What a way to throw your status in their face, Juliet. Almost rolling her eyes at her inner thoughts, she caught sight of someone stepping up in her peripheral. When she dared to look, she was staring at a darker-skinned elder woman, grinning at her with missing teeth. Right, so, a woman could still hit a woman. Panic set in as she swiftly stepped aside to rush across the tavern, hiking up the skirt of that lovely dress to step over a couple of empty chairs in her way. [d]
[JONATHAN] The merchant ship he had arrived on was docked for several days, and just like every land they came to--he had a choice: Leave on the ship when it left. Or stay. He had never found a reason to stay, yet. Perhaps he just enjoyed jumping from one land to the next and being out on the ocean. He was meant to be out on the ocean. But occasionally it was nice to be on dry land, as he was now. He sat in the tavern with some of the other crew members from their ship-- their second night on land. It was loud in there, mainly from his group of men, cheering, drinking, playing games and laughing. One of the men was actually busting out a song with the band playing off in the corner. Jonathan just sat there watching everyone, a permanent smirk on his lips. They were a good group of men. Mostly.
"Aren't ye gonna join in the games, Jonathan ol' boy?" One of the men shouted, clapping him hard on the back. He laughed and took a long sip of his ale, shaking his head. "I'm out of this round...But maybe next one!" He grinned, raising his glass as if making a promise toast.
His dark eyes scanned the room and he spotted the strange woman in what appeared to be a wedding gown-- a bit out of place here, it would seem. And she seemed to have gotten herself into some trouble. He slowly stood, mostly because he was curious, but also, he couldn't bear to stand seeing a lass in trouble, whether she deserved it or not. As she climbed over the chairs and nearly ran into him, he caught her and swung her around so his back was to the group trying to pursue her and he hid her before he led her around a corner and out of their view, making them confused and wonder where she was. When they moved past them, he looked down at her and grinned with that charming smile of his. "That was close..." [d]
[JULIET] This was stupid. This was so stupid. Why did she ever think this was a good idea? Soon enough, her family would realize she was missing and come looking for her, but would they even think to look at the tavern? Perhaps that was the reason why she had come here, subconsciously. Really, though, was this marriage truly that terrible? She didn't know Daniel all that well...but she had heard stories. Yet, even that wasn't the reason why she fled now. For her life, apparently. She knew the woman was quick on her heels as she scrambled through the crowded tavern, being pretty spry on her feet. This came from years of growing up with three brothers, but that didn't mean she was equipped to get into a bar brawl! Before she could figure out what on earth she was going to do next, she was almost barreling into someone and she felt a pair of hands on her shoulders swinging her around. Until she was stopped, staring wide-eyed at some blue-eyed stranger. "Uh, yes," she breathed, hearing the pissed off men roam by. Juliet shut her eyes briefly as if that would further hide her...until one dark hue opened, eventually followed by the other and she was attempting to peer around the corner. When one of the men happened to be taking his time, only passing by that second, she was gasping and standing up straight again. "Another one of your brilliant ideas, Juliet," she murmured to herself, as if she was the only one there. Realizing that she wasn't, her cheeks flushed slightly and regarded the man...who she prayed wasn't just another creep. "Thank you..." [d]
[JONATHAN] He watched as the last man wandered past them and he laughed, glancing down at her curiously. "You're welcome... Though I hope I did not just help a fugitive who stole a wedding dress or something?" He tilted his head regarding her carefully. It wasn't every day you saw a lady wander, or running around a tavern in a wedding dress. "Should I keep my eye out for an angry husband, or have you gotten lost on your way to your honeymoon?" Oh, he was prying and should probably just shut up. But he couldn't. He was curious now. "Sorry." He took a step away from her, giving her space now that the people she was running from were out of view and he didn't need to hide her anymore. [d]
[JULIET] They may have wandered out of view for now, but for how long? Would she be able to sneak out of the tavern...where would she go? Blinking, Juliet tried to clear her head of these questions when this man began to talk. No, question her. "A fugitive? Well, I never...!" Did she look like some rogue? He should certainly know! At the mention of an angry husband, she swallowed a lump in her throat as a look of panic washed over her face. When he took that step away, she felt like she could breathe a little easier, but not quite. She was clawing at that beautifully embroidered underbust that her mother squeezed her into. "I, um...fled the reception?" Her voice drifted into a question when she realized she was telling a complete stranger this. Yep, this was going so well. "Oh, my God...this was so stupid. I need to go, I need to get out of here..." Although she was rambling, Juliet was still feeling that invigorating rush of excitement...while, at the same time, probably having a panic attack. Fingers were nimbly undoing the clasps on that corset to remove it, gasping for air. "Maybe, I could sell my jewelry...find a ship. Yes, a ship!" she exclaimed, nudging the man in the shoulder as if he was in on this whole conversation inside her head. She really wasn't crazy, but...it probably looked at it. [d]
[JONATHAN] He had only been joking when he called her a fugitive, but that had clearly gone over her head and she misjudged it. It didn't matter though--she had already moved passed that when she admitted she ran from her wedding reception. Oh, this was good.. This was interesting. He laughed in disbelief, eyes lifting from her and glancing around. "So should we...uh...be expecting to see your husband searching for you now?" But she was rambling as he asked the question, seemingly fighting with herself and her conscience. A brow rose in curiosity and concern. "A ship?" She nudged him and she scratched his head in confusion now. He should really just walk away. Most likely, probably. He couldn't help but laugh. "You need to go somewhere?" He asked. "My men and I are from a merchant ship..." He pointed to the table where most of the crew sat, rowdy and laughing amongst each other. "We can take you... as long as we won't be hearing from your angry husband.... for helping you get away..." He smirked, that charming smile of his as he regarded her for a moment. "And you'd have to ditch the dress..." [d]
[JULIET] Maybe she should hush and just take a moment to think before this man thought she was completely out of her mind. Juliet had a tendency to just jump into things without thinking things through fully...and this was one of those situations, except this was really bad. Closing her eyes, she took in a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to calm her nerves. Maybe she should try and answer his questions...even though she probably shouldn't be trusting a dashing stranger in a tavern full of brutes. "Yes, I need to leave," she began, attempting to explain. "I can't...I can't stay here anymore." For so many reasons, ones she didn't bother to explain because apparently he was a part of a crew himself. Those doe eyes lit up. "You are? You can?" She didn't mention Daniel, because, well...she really didn't know how he would react. Maybe it was this man's charming smile, but she was grinning now herself...until he mentioned the dress. Juliet looked down at herself in a bit of concern. "But, I've nothing else..." [d]
[JONATHAN] "Hmmm... That is a problem..." He said sarcastically, tapping his finger against his chin. "Wait here." He ushered her to a table and urged her to sit before he wandered off and made his way to the bar where a woman was tending. He waited patiently, leaning against the counter top, flashing that grin. When the woman came over to him, he spoke to her quietly, seemingly making the woman blush. A few words were exchanged and the woman was nodding before walking off. He turned around, leaning his back up against the counter, peering back over to where Juliet sat, and he watched her, with that nervous demeanor she had going on. If they took her along, would she end up regretting it and make them turn back around? He laughed at the thought and shook his head. The woman was returning with a satchel stuffed full that she handed to Jonathan. He smiled to her and gave her a wink. "Thank you." He said to her, before stepping away and moving to sit across from Juliet, handing her the satchel. It was filled with some new clothing items for her along with some shoes that would hopefully all fit. "If these don't work... You can hit up the village market tomorrow morning?" He set a key down on the table in front of her. "You can stay upstairs in one of the rooms, for now... Until we leave." He leaned back in his seat and folded his arms over his chest. "I'm Jonathan, by the way..." [d]
[JULIET] No, this was definitely insane. She kept trying to tell herself that it wasn't...but it was. All of a sudden, she was trusting some stranger and a crew full of men to take her away from here. What was wrong with her? Juliet was frightened...but invigorated at the same time. And that was a dangerous conversation. As he led her to a table, those brown eyes were looking around frantically, expecting to see those brutes still around. They probably were, but the tavern was so crowded that she might be safe. Then again, she was sitting there in a wedding dress. When she felt like she was still safe, her attention drifted over to her charming savior as he appeared to be schmoozing one of of the tavern girls. Oh my. She found herself staring, blinking when he finally brought the satchel full of clothes over to her. Juliet did her best not to cringe, wondering how...filthy those clothes might be. That wasn't enough to keep her from doing this, though. "Thank you," she finally said. Then she was surprised at the key. "I'm Juliet..." A small, embarrassed smile found its way to her lips. Fingers reached for that room key, playing with it a little on top of the table, and she just had to ask, "Why...are you helping me?" [d]
[JONATHAN] If she wanted to be an adventurer and live on the sea, she would need to get used to dirty. He extended his hand to shake hers in introduction as they exchanged names with one another. Then, she was asking him a very good question. Why was he helping her? He laughed and folded his arms over his chest again. "Hoping to get you into the sheets, maybe?" He smirked and tilted his head, regarding her for a moment before laughing. "I'm kidding.." He shook his head. This was how Jonathan was... a prankster, a charmer, a deviant. "Truthfully?" He pondered his answer and shrugged his shoulders. "Why not?" He leaned forward then, folding his hands to rest on the table. "I have a sister of my own... And if she were a woman in distress...trying to run from her husband... I would want someone out there to help her..." [d]
[JULIET] Shaking his hand, she was quickly withdrawing it with his comment. She actually gasped in disgust, her lips parting to clearly berate him until he was telling her that he was joking. But Juliet couldn't help but watch him with unsure eyes. He was handsome- she wasn't blind- and he knew it...so he probably got away with a lot of things. So, excuse her for being a little cautious now; clutching that satchel of clothes against herself. The mention of a sister only eased her nerves a little, and she swallowed the lump in her throat. Finally, she eased back in her seat, shielding half her face with her hand. "You must think I'm insane...I think I'm insane." Just a little. Okay, maybe a lot. [d]
[JONATHAN] "Aren't we all?" He laughed and shrugged his shoulders. He thought that was true. What was normal, anyway? He leaned back in his seat and looked at her, studying her even before he sighed. "So.... Will you tell me why you ran?" Of course she didn't have to, but maybe it would help him think her less insane if he truly had a good reason to help her out. "You don't have to.... But, I kind of want to hear your story..." He smirked before waving over a tavern worker and ordering himself a drink. "What would you like, doll?" He questioned her, motioning to the tavern woman to also bring whatever Juliet requested. [d]
[JULIET] That caused her to smirk slightly, and her back wasn't as ramrod straight anymore. Still, those brown eyes were wandering around the tavern again as a precaution until they inevitably fell back to Jonathan. She wondered if she should tell him and was contemplating it when the tavern girl came over to take their drink order. "Oh, um...an ale? Please." She'd only ever had wine before, but heard ale was rather good. When the woman walked away, she went back to the question that was left in the air. "I...don't even know him," she began, speaking of Daniel, her husband. "And I heard stories...about him..." She shook her head, dismissing that thought. It could literally just all be gossip. "But I...couldn't take the stuffiness of life anymore. Ever since I was little, I wanted to sail, to travel. My brothers got to." There was a little bit of stubborn jealousy in her voice now. Childish, maybe, but why did the men get to have all the fun? "What is it like?" she asked him, leaning forward to rest her arms upon the table. "The ocean?" [d]
[JONATHAN] A brow rose at her admitting that she didn't even know her husband. "Stories? What kind of stories?" He could only imagine what these stories were if they were enough to make her run. It made him want to help her more. She kept rambling though about her brothers and wanting to sail and travel. "The ocean? Sailing?" He asked in response to her question. "Hmmm..." He tried to think. "It can be peaceful one moment, and dangerous the next... it's complete freedom, but also sometimes isolating..." He shrugged his shoulders. "But exploring...seeing new lands, visiting different places... It's nice." The tavern girl came back and set the two mugs of ale down, Jonathan thanked her and picked his up taking a long sip. He set it back on the table and sighed. "Are you good at anything? Have any skills?" [d]
[JULIET] Oh, maybe she had said too much, and she was quick to bite down on her lip as if that would take it all back. Perhaps that was a story for another time. Right now, she was actually afraid that Daniel would find her here. There were still plenty of hours until the morning. As Jonathan explained the ocean, she found herself leaning forward just a little bit more; a gentle smile creasing her lips. "It sounds...wonderful." Even while it sounded treacherous. She was almost imagining it before the tavern girl came back with their drinks, snapping her back to reality. Hand reached for the mug to stare down into it, hesitating when he asked if she had any skills. Well, nothing that would be helpful on a merchant ship, certainly. She appeared almost embarrassed now. "Well, I..." No. No real skills. "My eldest brother taught me how to use a sword...a little. I'm a quick learner!" In other words...Sorry, sir, I'm pretty much useless right now. You might want to forget about this little arrangement. [d]
[JONATHAN] He laughed as she said it sounded wonderful. At times it could be, but other times it grew old and they were landing just in time before they were all about to kill each other. She really had no idea. Though, he supposed a woman who was used to being stuck in the stuffiness of life, it would seem the adventurous life would be more appealing. An eyebrow rose as she admitted that she was taught to use a sword. a little. He laughed again. "Seriously, lady?" He scratched his chin and shook his head. "You're going to have to come up with something better than that..... The Captain is going to put you to work if you're on board... Or you'll have to pay a pretty amount of gold for passage...Do you cook? Clean? Anything like that?" Oh yes, he was being stereotypical. What woman didn't know how to cook? [d]
[JULIET] Anything sounded better than what she was dealing with. And perhaps that was horrible of her to think. She had a decent childhood, always had a roof over her head, food in her belly. She had a safe life, a wealthy one...something that not everyone had. She had always been told how fortunate she was, so then why did she want to give it all up? Was this a ridiculous idea? Would she change her mind before getting on that ship? Could she really trust this crew, this man she barely even knew? At his reaction, her brows furrowed together. Maybe if she had a blade (having dropped that knife she'd taken during her scrambling) she could show him a thing or two! George had done well with teaching her enough, she thought...until mother found out and quickly disapproved of it. "Anything like that?" she repeated, clearly offended. Juliet took a few sips of that ale- taking a moment to realize that it was rather delicious- before slamming the mug down in her annoyance. "Are you insinuating that you men are incapable of doing such easy tasks yourselves?" Maybe he wasn't, but she now was insinuating it. Another sip. "I'm capable of any work if given the chance, you...filthy ship rat. I am a quick learner, understand? Maybe I could best you." Of course, she had no idea what he did, exactly, but the wine from the reception to calm her nerves and this ale was making her awfully confrontational. Was it supposed to do that? [d]
[JONATHAN] "Filthy ship rat?!" He laughed, a brow raising at her. Did she really just call him that? He lifted an arm to sniff his armpit before glancing back at her. "I bathe. I'm not that filthy..." He laughed before shaking his head. "I am not insinuating anything. Sorry if I offended... it's just that... it would be helpful to have a homemaker on board...someone to help us cook and clean. We are quite capable... And maybe you could best me. Or maybe not." He shrugged, that charming smile of his never faltering. [d]
[JULIET] She actually felt bad, and embarrassed, for the name calling. Truly, she didn't know what had suddenly come over her. Perhaps it was now or never to do the most unthinkable thing imaginable. "Could have fooled me..." she murmured quietly into that cup. Dammit, stop! You're embarrassing yourself. She took a few more sips of the alez relishing the flavor of it. Why had she never had this before? Brown eyes narrowed lightly at the charming not-so-filthy ship rat. "So... you're asking me to do what I would basically already be doing were I to stay?" She chuckled. It wasn't much to ask, but she was being stubborn. And maybe becoming a little tipsy. She hadn't eaten much at the feast because she feared she would become ill. A hand went to shield half her face. "This is ridiculous," she finally said, surprised at herself. "I... don't even know, or them!" She pointed at his crewmates. "I'm a naive girl willing to hop on a boat full of-" Juliet studied him quietly for a moment before that hand was now waving at him in gesture. "Rougish men." Naive indeed. That idea, in and of itself, was foolish. And dangerous. Regardless of the fact that he seemed to genuinely be helping her. [d]
[JONATHAN] This lady was severely conflicted. One minute she was ready to rush off as soon as possible. The next, she was doubting herself and coming to realization that what she was about to do was not only crazy, but dangerous. She didn't know any of them, so how could she be sure that she'd be safe. He couldn't help but laugh at her. She was naive, and it was a bit humorous to him. With a sigh, he turned around to look at the crew and he whistled to get their attention. They all glanced up at him and he motioned them over. "Come meet Juliet..a new ship mate." The men stood up from their seats and filed into a line, each one stepped up to Juliet and either shook her hand or placed a kiss upon her knuckles in greeting. They were all well behaved, respectful, warm and welcome. And when they all sat down around them now, Jonathan leaned into Juliet and spoke quietly into her ear. "Bunch of savage rogues alright!" He laughed, sitting up straighter and sipping his ale. [d]
[JULIET] Naive was putting it lightly. Gently, even. He wouldn't know that she has never done this sort of thing before, and her mind was reeling. It was so very scary but still, that exhilaration would not go away. She imagined it would only get worse once she set foot on the ship. Also, she might be nearing drunk, but it was a little too soon to tell. But that cup of hers was empty, and she was such a lithe thing. What Jonathan did next took her by surprise. Juliet watched as the crew got up...and even filed into a line to take their turn to greet her. It was actually kind of...well, heartwarming. They had better manners than some socialites she'd met. Jules did her best to say hello to each of them, but she was grinning in a rather dumbfounded way, from ear to ear. They certainly weren't pirates! As Jonathan leaned in, she laughed, watching as they all joined their little table. "A bunch of...dashing rogues, maybe," she said, waving to the old man seated nearby who smiled warmly at her with missing teeth. She turned back to Jonathan, pressing a hand to her face again as she felt the embarrassment begin to return. "I'm sorry. I'm not usually this...weird." Not entirely anyway. "It's been a rather trying day..." You know, with the wedding and all. Brown eyes glanced down to that ridiculously extravagant emerald ring on her finger...studying it for a moment before pulling it off. "Next few rounds is on me, gentlemen!" [d]
[JONATHAN] He laughed at her comment. Yes, dashing rogues indeed. Especially himself. That grin formed on his face again when she was apologizing, and he waved his hand as if to excuse her. "Don't worry about it." He finished off his ale before sighing. "Anyway... No one is going to force you to come along. The choice is entirely yours. But now you know everyone...at least by name and face...And you're welcome to come along."
He watched her as she stared at that ring on her finger. It was rather large and beautiful--surely she could get some good money for it. Eyebrow rose though when she removed it and announced that the next rounds were on her. The men cheered and praised her, then, and a tavern girl came over to take everyone's orders. Jonathan leaned in again to speak to Juliet. "You don't have to do that." [d]
[JULIET] If he didn't notice, she had plenty of other jewels to go around. Even the dress she wore would fetch a pretty penny, especially if she didn't spill ale on it. Besides, that bloody ring felt like an anchor on her finger right now. If she was going to do this, if she was going to really leave, then she had to lose everything. "Thanks." She grinned at him, feeling a little more at ease. Was the worry completely gone? Of course not...but right now, she simply wanted to forget what she was running from and of those consequences that may arise, and simply enjoy herself. For once. Ordering another ale, she waved him off. "I'm happy to buy my new friends some drinks." She said that a little loudly, causing some of the crew to cheer. That grin widened a bit more in response. "So then, Mr..." A pause, she realized he hadn't shared his last name. "Jonathan...what is it that you do? Besides save random girls in taverns." Or woo them out of their skirts, most likely as well. [d]
[JONATHAN] He ordered himself another ale as well before regarding Juliet as she questioned him. What is it that he did? Well, that certainly was a great question. A man nearby, hearing her question laughed and nudged Jonathan. "Oh this guy?! A whole lot of nothing!" He squeezed his shoulder and grinned. "Nah... he's a good man... Works hard when he wants to!" Jonathan shook his head and laughed. "Thanks... that's quite enough Leroy." He turned back to Juliet. "I handle all the sails.. Catch fish. And when we're on land, make all the deals and trades." He shrugged. "Not a whole lot, I suppose..." [d]
[JULIET] "Is that so..." she murmured in amusement as Leroy jokingly began to answer for him. Perhaps this fella was just all talk and no action. His comrade made it clear he was joking, but her brows were lifting up in gesture. "Only when he wants to," she repeated, her eyes regarding Jonathan. "I see..." When he actually took a moment to explain, he tried to pass it off as nothing. "Seems like a whole lot to me," she added as the tavern girl began bringing over everyone's drinks. The men cheered and Juliet was already taking a sip of her ale. Then another sip. Suddenly, a few of the men began to stomp their feet as others clapped their feet, beginning to sing. It took Juliet by surprise, but wide curious eyes turned to them. Apparently, they had been in the tavern awhile now...and may have already had a few drinks. "Oh, Sally Brown, she's a nice young lady, Way, hay, roll and go. And we rolled all night, And we rolled all day, Spend our money on Sally Brown!" [d]
[JONATHAN] Only when he wants to, yes, Jonathan was known for busying himself with ahem other things, in his bed, from time to time--shirking his work duties. But he always made up for them later! He laughed and shrugged his shoulders at her as she tried to make his responsibilities seem like they were a lot. He really didn't see it that way, there could have been more to do, but their crew was a well oiled machine, and they all worked well together and got what needed to be done, done. The drinks came, and Jonathan reached for his, taking a long sip. The other men started so sing and stomp their feet, putting on a show for everyone in the tavern, and Jonathan laughed, leaning back in his seat to watch, nudging Juliet. "Now look what you've done..." He grinned, and eventually started to sing along, because, hell, why not? [d]
[JULIET] "Me?" she questioned when he nudged her. Well, whether she started this or not, she suddenly seemed completely enthralled by the display of camaraderie. Her smile spread wide across her face before looking back to the singing sailors. Oh, how she wished she knew the words to this song! It was almost strange how, in this very moment, she didn't feel so much like a stranger. How did that happen so quickly? Ale. It had to be the ale that was suddenly filling her up with such a warmth. She erupted into laughter as the old man- Harry she quickly remembered- was drawing her up to dance while Leroy grabbed the tavern girl who was simply trying to do her job. "I'm afraid I don't know this dance!" she confessed to Harry but drifted to his side to try and mimic his footing to the best of her ability anyway. The thing about Juliet was, she really was a quick learner. It was this strange skill that she hadn't necessarily been lying about. She watched the fancy footwork just a couple times before making an attempt; falling into a fit of laughter as she managed to do it. And what a sight she probably made- a bride dancing among the tavern ruffians. What would her mother think? [d]
[JONATHAN] He laughed and nodded at her. Yes, it was her fault. He watched as Harry and Juliet danced, laughing quietly at the sight. He clapped and stomped his foot as he sang along with the group. He wasn't the dancing type, but he'd still participate with the fun. When the song finally came to an end, one of the men was quick to start up with another song. So it’s cheer up my lads, let your hearts never fail, While the bonny ship, the Diamond, goes a-fishing for the whale. Jonathan shook his head and laughed again. They got going and now there'd be no stopping them. [d]
[JULIET] She was being led around the table, a couple of the sailors beginning to dance around in a circle. Reaching over Jonathan' shoulder, she was grabbing her mug of ale along the way before she was off again in a fit of laughter. It would seem the men didn't stop at just one song, already drifting into another. If they kept this up, the whole tavern would be joining in. None of her family's parties were this much fun!
[BILLY] After making sure all supplies and cargo were accounted for, the quartermaster walked the quiet docks this evening to head towards the tavern. And the closer he got, the more he could hear the commotion from inside. He had no doubt that it was his crew enjoying this time on dry land. As he entered, hit with the loudness of it, he spotted them immediately and belted out the next verse of the song, "...with their shawls about their heads and salt tears runnin' down. I'll never weep my bonny lad though I'm left behind, for there's not a rose on Greenland's ice to make you change your mind!" The other men laughed in their greeting, one of them drawing the young man closer to the group to hand him a cup of ale. That was when his light eyes fell upon a particular face that stood out among the ugly mugs surrounding him. And she was no tavern girl. Funny how his attention quickly shifted to Delaney in accusation, who had a knack for causing strange problems. He was praying to whatever god would listen that the man didn't schmooze some poor, defenseless rich girl into whatever-the-hell. [d]
[JONATHAN] Oh yes, he sure did have quite the knack for causing strange problems, though that was a harsh word..perhaps maybe just situations. Though none of the crew were complaining about this situation. He caught a glimpse of Billy and shot him an innocent grin, raising his glass of ale before sipping at it. Billy had to admit--He kept things interesting, did he not? Jonathan motioned for Billy to look at Juliet and he waggled his eyebrows as if to say, "look what I found" There had been no schmoozing. Well, not his usual amount, anyway. [d]
[BILLY] That look...he didn't quite trust it. It was clear the girl was highborn, and- correct him if he was wrong- she was wearing a wedding gown...? Billy was turning to look back at her just as the dancing line of figures was approaching and she nearly barreled into him. But the quartermaster stood still, curiously looking down at her laughing face, at the same time bringing his drink to his lips.
[JULIET] "Oh!" she exclaimed, coming to an abrupt halt as she was suddenly staring at a broad chest. Those dark eyes had to rise up, higher and higher to find the man's face. "Oh," she said again. My, wasn't he tall! And younger than most of the crew. "My apologies, I-" But she didn't get to finish as Harry was dragging her away again, causing her to almost spill what was left of her drink.
[BILLY] He almost laughed at her reaction, eyes shifted as she was pulled away. Then he was moving to sit next to Delaney with that questioning look once more. "So..." He simply said, giving the man an opening to explain why the crew was passing around some highborn girl, and in the most innocently way possible. [d]
[JONATHAN] He knew what Billy was getting at and he laughed. "Oh, don't give me that!! I had nothing to do with this..." He pointed at the group and the woman in the wedding dress. "Mostly..." he nodded with a grin. "Mostly I had nothing to do with it." He laughed. Seymour's gang were after her because she made him spill a drink...I hid her from them and she told me she wanted to find a ship and leave, so I offered her passage." He shrugged his shoulders like it wasn't a big deal. "She's a quick learner though...so she'll be steering the ship in no time." He grinned and laughed slightly. [d]
[BILLY] Excuse him for not believing Delaney for one second. This had him written all over it. "Uh huh..." he murmured into his cup as he took a few sigs of that ale. Then the man was explaining, and it nearly made Billy spit out his drink. "You...offered her passage?" Did he not hear him correctly over the ruckus the crew was making? "Did you ask the captain about this, or, I don't know...the first mate?" Which would be him, sitting right there in front of him. Captain Samuel Wright was a good, decent man, but..."A highborn girl doesn't belong on a merchant ship, Delaney. I don't think Wright's going to like this." But what did he know? That man often surprised him. [d]
[JONATHAN] "I'm about to ask you now." Jonathan grinned that charming, innocent grin at Billy before he sighed. "She wants to get out of her highborn life and wants to sail...learn
to sale... and explore." He shrugged his shoulders. "If it doesn't work out, I'm sure she'd be fine with us dropping her off at the next stop... Just to get her away. Hell if I know. It'll be fine. If it's not, you can kick my ass overboard." He laughed and motioned over to her. "The guys seem to get along with her and she's keeping them entertained and happy..." He grinned again, taking a sip of his ale. [d]
[BILLY] His eyes narrowed upon him, but he was almost too tired to argue with him right now. The captain may or may not mind- it would all depend. As Delaney explained, however, Billy's eyes drifted back to the girl. "Who would want to leave a life of money?" he wondered out loud. It sounded like she was too drunk to realize just what she was getting into, and he supposed he'd have to remind her of it in the morning. If she didn't already run off by then. After taking another swig of ale, he pointed a finger at Jonathan, "This is on you. I'm holding you responsible." Nearly rolling his eyes, that cup back to his lips, his gaze drifted back to the men as the song ended. They would be at this all night if he allowed them.
[JULIET] Completely lost in the fun of it all, her laughter erupted from her chest as she was quickly forgetting who she was and what she had been running from. It also could have been that third mug of ale she was nursing. Perhaps she should stop. The song ended and so did the dance, but one of the crew was belting out for her to sing something- they couldn't possibly be the only entertainers! "Me?" she questioned and her smile was nervous. "No, I don't th-" "Come now, lass. It's only fair!" the sailor called back. "Call it...your initiation." A hand pressed to her forehead as she carefully put her cup down onto the table. "I, um...well, I know a part of one song..." She had heard it from this very tavern while visiting the ships with Father one day. "Let's hear it then!" Harry nudged. Gritting her teeth, she stood up straight and tried to smooth out the front of that beautifully beaded dress. Were she more sober, she would have argued this until she died, but...she wanted adventure, so... "His hair it hangs in ringlets His eyes as black as coal My happiness attend him Wherever he may go From Tower Hill to Blackwall I'll wander, weep and moan All for my jolly sailor Until he sails home..." To her surprise, two barmaids (perhaps where she had first heard this song from originally) joined in on the chorus with her, and Juliet tried to keep singing with a ridiculously wide smile on her face. "My heart is pierced by Cupid I disdain all glittering gold There is nothing can console me But my jolly sailor bold." [d]
[JONATHAN] He only shrugged his shoulders in response to Billy's question about someone wanting to leave the life of money. He imagined it were only the people who didn't have wealth that would ask that sort of question. He grinned as Billy decided to place blame and responsibility over the woman and Jonathan laughed. "Yeah...yeah..." He waved him off, finishing his mug of ale and glanced back over to where Juliet was, suddenly starting her own song that no one but the barmaids sang along to. "See....She can teach us new songs.." He chuckled softly and nudged Billy. Jonathan clearly wasn't worried, so why should anyone else be? [d]
[BILLY] Well, that was it, these drunkards were stupidly enamored with the poor girl and slowly accepting her into their rowdy brood. He shook his head at Delaney as he laughed lightly in return. "Bringing a woman on board is bad luck, y'know...or so they say." He was shrugging now because he had no idea where that superstition came from. But good ol' sailors were men, who arrived back home to the women. Speaking of, he hadn't missed one of the tavern girls eyeing him a moment ago, so he returned the favor as he took another sip of ale. It hadn't been the first time he'd noticed her, either.
[JULIET] Unfortunately (or fortunately?), she didn't know any of the other verses...so as the two women continued to sing a bit more, Juliet simply curtseyed before reaching for her ale again. It was nearly finished, and she thought that this should probably be her last one. She frowned at the thought. [d]
JONATHAN] "Yeah... And like we don't already have bad luck without a woman on board?" He laughed and shook his head. He didn't believe in all those damn superstitions. Women had to travel too...and all of the ships carrying women didn't sink. It was a dumb superstition. His eyes followed Billy's gaze as it landed on one of the tavern girls, and he laughed. "Sometimes you're just as bad as I am... so I don't think it's fair you give me a hard time." He nudged him hard before he stood up and stretched. He did a little mockful bow at Billy before walking off and over to where Juliet was. He'd stand there, arms folded over his chest as he watched her sing until she stopped, seeing her eyeing her ale. "Can I get you another?" he questioned her. [d]
[BILLY] Well...he had a point. Billy didn't necessarily believe it, but there were ships out there- merchant vessels specifically- that believed in such things. He didn't know where it came from. As Delaney commented about him being as bad as he was, he chuckled but didn't shift his eyes from the girl. "The difference between you and me...is that I don't just fuck and forget, mate. This has been a long pursuit..." Although he still didn't know her name or whether she was spoken for. But those batting eyes made it quite clear that she wasn't. When Jonathan nudged him, he finally broke his gaze as his ale sloshed out over the rim and onto his shirt. "Oi! Ye shithead!" he called after him, but he was still laughing nonetheless.
[JULIET] She was certainly feeling all warm right now. And forgetful. She was glancing down at herself and that dress, wondering why on earth she would wear such an extravagant gown to a tavern. That was silly, wasn't it? "Hmm?" she was inquiring when she heard Jonathan speak, but her eyes were slow to look over at him. Then her gaze averted back to her empty mug and she was quick to nod. "Oh yes, please." [d]
[JONATHAN] He didn't fuck and forget. Not all the time, at least. He couldn't help it if their ship never returned to certain lands again. If they did return...Maybe he wouldn't forget. He laughed at Billy as he yelled over at him, calling him a shithead for making him spill his drink. Wouldn't be the first time he'd be called that. He grinned as Juliet nodded, wanting another mug of ale and he stepped away again, moving over to the bar where that one particular barmaid was that Billy was eyeing. He leaned against the bar and winked at her. "Can I get two more ales, please?" The woman was suddenly all flustered by Jonathan, then, and went to retrieve the ale. He turned and glanced to Billy and grinned innocently at him, before he turned back around just as the woman came back with the two mugs. He laughed and urged her to lean in closer to him like he had a secret and he spoke quietly just enough for her to hear. "My friend back there... The one you are eying... He told me he wants to fuck you all night long..." He grinned and stood up straight. The woman became completely flustered again, as if her breath had been caught in her chest. Jonathan nodded to her and winked again before walking away with the two mugs of ale, handing one to Juliet, and sipping the other one. [d]
[BILLY] In the middle of trying to dry his shirt (not that it was the cleanest thing to begin with), he noticed Jonathan looking over at him with that damned grin of his...only to lean in to whisper, probably sweet nothings, into that particular girl's ear. Oh, so he was going to play that game, huh? Unfortunately, he didn't know exactly what the idiot had said, and the barmaid seemed unsure of what to do with whatever it was. "Delaney!" he called out in warning, but as he stood up, it were as if he had forgotten how tall and broad he was, and accidentally knocked into Harry...who proceeded to spill his drink on his already stained shirt. Blue eyes rolled up into whites as he tilted his head back in defeat. This night was going swell.
[JULIET] The tall one's outburst startled her for a moment, but she found herself giggling when the others began to. Poor guy, he looked tired and completely defeated for whatever reason...but she was forgetting about it when that ever-grinning fella was bringing her another ale. "Delaney," she repeated when Billy had used it. "Thank you." Perhaps trying to commit names to memory while she probably wouldn't remember half of these evening in the morning was most likely a silly idea. But, at least she was trying. She held her cup in a small salute before taking a sip. "How did you...find these wonderful gentlemen?" she asked. [d]
[JONATHAN] He heard Billy yell his name and watched as he was splashed with another drink. He chuckled softly and he watched as that barmaid went to Billy with another ale, handing it to him nervously. "I um.... your friend told me something..." her eyes shifted to where Jonathan was and she laughed nervously. "I was thinking.. maybe we could go upstairs, then?" Your welcome, Billy! Jonathan laughed and turned back to Juliet "They're not my crew... but I found them while looking for work. They took me in." He shrugged his shoulders. [d]
[BILLY] "Dammit, Har!" he exclaimed in exasperation. The old man was glaring at him because it had technically been the quartermaster's fault. But before he could say or do anything more, that particular tavern girl was approaching with a fresh pint, starting to say something about Jonathan. "Whatever he said to you, I can assure you that-" Wait, what? Well, that took the tall sailor off guard and he probably looked completely dumbfounded. "I, uh...um...okay...?" It was Harry he heard snickering beside him and who had taken that fresh ale from his hand (since Billy spilled most of his), ushering the lad away to go follow the pretty girl upstairs.
[JULIET] She was watching the tall one stammering on nearby. Was he blushing? Juliet giggled quietly into that cup while Jonathan replied. "Ah. Then they are a good group of chaps, indeed." And maybe...just maybe... she'd find her place among them? It seemed like such a silly idea right now, but she felt too invigorated to care. "I do hope I can do this..." she was mainly murmuring to herself. She almost sounded completely sober, too. But she meant taking this giant leap, living on the sea, hoping for it to be as grand as she expected. Well, mostly expected. [d]
[JONATHAN] He couldn't hide that mischievous grin on his face as Billy was stammering and started to follow the girl. Now Billy owed him one. He glanced back to Juliet and chuckled. "Well, you have until tomorrow morning to make up your mind... And I've been warned that I'm responsible for whatever you do... So no pressure on making me look bad or anything like that." He laughed and shook his head. Silly superstitions. He sighed, taking a long sip of his ale. The crew had started with another sing, though this time a slow harmonizing melody. Jonathan wasn't familiar though. [d]
[JULIET] "Responsible?" she echoed, brown eyes blinking as she looked to him in soft surprise. Then it slowly made sense (silly drunken mind) and that grin slowly began to spread wide across her face. Maybe there was even a glint of deviousness in her gaze now. "Is that so...?" A finger pressed against her lips in contemplation. "That makes this all the more tempting now, Mr. Delaney. You probably shouldn't have told me that." Of course, she was kidding, but even still. [d]
[JONATHAN] "Oh, does it now?" He grinned. "I've been told many times that things involving me are often tempting..." He laughed and winked at her. But then he shrugged his shoulders. "It's alright... I'll just be tossed overboard if they don't like you...Or you cause any problems. No big deal." He laughed. [d]
[JULIET] She looked at him curiously. He had this charm about him...in a kind of prideful, conceited sort of way, she realized. That wasn't necessarily a bad thing, but she imagined it got him into a lot of trouble. But his following words actually had her pausing midway to taking another sip of her ale; her brown eyes wide. Now, sober Juliet would have realized that he was joking, but...the poor girl was beyond being able to understand that right now. Any sane girl would have realized this was a major risk, surrounding herself with roguish men...but she just ran away from her wedding reception. There was nothing logical about this evening. "Oh my gosh, will they really?" she asked in a panic. Fingers even lifted to press against her mouth in alarm. Dear God. If her normal self could just see her now...she would be cringing in embarrassment. [d]
[JONATHAN] Oh yes, it did get him into a lot of trouble, it seemed... But it was also his charm that got him out of trouble, too. He wasn't sure how the captain would respond to Juliet boarding their ship... Billy didn't seem all that pleased about the idea, so he could only imagine. He would have to figure out some convincing. Though, was this girl really worth the trouble? He didn't know a thing about her, just that he had jumped into helping her right away. He often did things without thinking them all the way through. Finally, he nodded. "Yes, they would....So you best be on your best behavior, alright?" [d]
[JULIET] Now she was taking him seriously and frowned at his answer. Dark eyes flickered back to the men who were laughing, singing, and still drinking, and it was hard to fathom that they would throw anyone overboard. "Hm, well then-" she began, pausing to take a sip of her ale once more. This really should be her last one. Her fingers were getting tingly, and she may have fallen into a laughing fit if the conversation hadn't gotten so dire (at least in her drunken mind it had). "You'll have to show me how to be a proper sailor." She jabbed him in the shoulder playfully. "Teach me your ways, Mr. Delaney." [d]
[JONATHAN] "I hope for both our sakes you really are a quick learner..." He grinned and let out another laugh, finishing off his ale and setting it down on the table. "First lesson, is you need to learn how to hold your liquor better..." He could tell that she was drunk, and he considered seeing if he could somehow taken advantage of her in this state--though, contrary to others' beliefs, he was a lot more respectful than that. "Second lesson... You need to get proper attire... No more of this wedding ballroom thing...and the jewels... Being on board won't be pretty, you have nothing to dress up for, unless you wish to try and impress someone... But I am already impressed, so you won't have to worry about that anymore..." He grinned that innocent charming grin again. "Any questions?" [d]
[JULIET] Brown eyes blinked, eventually focusing on his lips because he was beginning to talk to quickly for her ear drunken mind...as if she'd be able to lip read. She almost rolled those eyes at herself before she became slightly offended. "Hold my liquor better?" What was this, the night to repeat everything he said? "I'll have you know, good sir, that I am completely fine." Oh, no she wasn't. Clearly. "I could walk the ship's railing with perfect balance right now." Nope. She couldn't, but she seemed awfully proud of the fact that she thought she could at the moment. Then, at the mention of her clothes, she was looking down at herself. She did look rather silly in this thing and in this place, didn't she? But at the mention of him already being impressed, she grinned stupidly, "Aw, you are?" Did she have any questions? Juliet appeared to be lost for a second before she answered, "You're a good man, Jonathan. No matter what Leroy says." Well, that was nice...except it wasn't a question. How many drinks did she have? [d]
[JONATHAN] Right. She clearly was not thinking straight and was completely drunk. Still, he couldn't help but chuckle at her words and her confidence that she was totally sober and could walk a straight line balancing on the ship's railing. "Uh huh... I'm sure..." He watched her for a moment, and as she questioned his comment about him being impressed, he didn't bother answering her. She wouldn't remember anyway whether he answered her or not. He shook his head and laughed. "I think it may be time for bed for you. We can start the lessons in the morning..." He motioned to the key on the table and the bag of clean, dry clothes (despite her thinking they were dirty earlier). "Do you need help getting upstairs?" And into bed. Ahem. At least he didn't say it out loud. [d]
[JULIET] Somehow, she was already looking down into an empty mug again and was prepared to go in search for another when he was telling her what to do. "Bed? It's too early for that." Maybe, but she wasn't going to last much longer. The poor dear was going to crash hard and she didn't even realize it yet. But she stomped her way over to that table to grab the bag and key, bidding some of the crew goodnight. "I think I can manage. Perfect. Balance," she accentuated those words with a prideful grin, gliding on over to the steps. Juliet made it up three before her foot slipped and she was leaning against the railing for support. Oh, she was so very graceful. It caused her to burst out into laughter. [d]
[JONATHAN] He watched her, his grin never fading from his lips. She said she could manage and was on her way. Jonathan found himself wondering if she would even remember any of this in the morning. If she would recall wanting to come along with them and leave her life behind. He laughed as she lost her balance and nearly fell down the stairs. "Are you sure you don't need help?" [d]
[JULIET] Somehow, it was the funniest thing in the world to her, how those steps seemed to be warping in front of her eyes. She felt like she was moving, but in fact, she was still standing still with one of her hands gripping tight the railing. The jury was out on how much she would remember tomorrow. She'd arrived here mostly sober and in her right mind, but that ale was doing a number. Juliet had never had so much to drink before. When she tried to take another step, her laughter stopped because now she was becoming a little nervous and unsure whether or not she would fall back. "I, uh...I might need help." There weren't a horrible amount of stairs, but right now, it looked like a million! [d]
[JONATHAN] He really didn't think she was going to make it up those stairs--and he couldn't help but laugh as she seemed to be stuck in the funniest thing in the world right now. He moved closer and stood at the bottom of the stairs, until she finally admitted that she needed help. He laughed again, shaking his head as he moved up to where she was on the stairs and slung her around around his neck and shoulders. He carefully helped her up the stairs and extended his hand to grab that key from her, finding out which room it was so he could unlock and open the door for her. He led her into the room and sat her on the bed. "Well.... It was nice to meet you, Juliet... I will see you in the morning?" [d]
[JULIET] She really didn't think she was going to make it up those stairs, either. No matter how hard she stared at them. When he was finally coming up to help her, she looked back down at the crew in the tavern, waving and blowing them kisses as though she had known for ages. Before she knew it, slight dizziness aside, she was seated on a bed. She bounced a little, testing it and it was awfully springy! It made her grin mildly at herself. Then someone was talking. She found him standing there and nodded. Right, the morning. When she really ran away. Well, at least she was remembering that now. Who knew what the morning would bring. Maybe nothing would change, or maybe she'd completely panic. "Oh, wait!" Speaking of panic. She actually grabbed for his arm to help leverage herself up to stand straight, legs only a little bit wobbly. "Could you, uh...buttons?" She turned a little and gestured to the back of her dress. It was a purely innocent request, because she really couldn't reach back there to do it herself. And she couldn't very sleep in the damned thing. If she remembered, she would burn it later. [d]
[JONATHAN] He was about to leave, but she was grabbing his arm and requesting him to help her unbutton her dress. He nearly choked on his breath and stared at the back of her dress and all the buttons that ran down it. "Uh.... Sure..." He said quietly, stepping up behind her. Despite what others thought of him, he was respectful to women. Quietly, he started to unbutton her dress until he was at the last one. "All set..." He said before taking a step back away from her. But god help him for the thoughts that were running through his head right now. [d]
[JULIET] It really was absurd, the amount of time it took to put a woman into the ridiculous amounts of layers. On top of it, she had worn the corset...which had been discarded somewhere downstairs, probably to never be seen again. But she thought nothing of asking him to help with this task, not until the bodice of the dress loosened. Not even her drunken mind would forget modesty. "Thanks..." Holding the dress against her chest with an arm, she turned slowly to regard him with a tired smile. She said nothing for a long moment before taking a step closer. When it seemed as though she was about to close that gap between them completely, her other hand was resting against his chest...and she began to gently push him backwards towards the door. "See you in the morning, Mr. Delaney." [d]
[JONATHAN] "You're welcome..." He said quietly, eyes watching her as she just stood there silently, and he wondered if she were about to say something or if she was just too drunk to realize that she wasn't talking. Finally, she took a step closer and put her hand on his chest. He swallowed nervously, but then she was pushing him towards the door and bidding him goodnight. He nodded and smirked. "Goodnight." And without another word, he was quick to leave her and went back downstairs with the rest of the drunken crew. [d]