Captain Fletcher glared at the flintlock rifles aimed at his chest. The soldiers surrounding him looked entirely too pleased with themselves.
“The schematics, if you please.” One of them stepped forward, his ringed hand outstretched. Unlike his companions, he wore the loose clothes and armaments often seen on a pirate, save for a pin of a crown placed right above his heart.
“Spies.” Fletcher spat, “Should’ve seen right through you, you’re far too well spoken for a pirate.”
“A fault of mine, I admit it.” The man replied, a sneer on his lips. He clicked back his pistol as the surrounding riflemen did the same. “Now, if you will.”
Captain Fletcher slowly, and carefully, peeled back his coat to reveal a rolled up scroll hidden away. He drew it out and placed it in the imposter’s grasp. “Good luck deciphering them. DaVinci’s handwriting isn’t particularly legible.”
“I’m sure I’ll manage.” He tucked the plans in his own coat. “The Crown appreciates your hard work. In return, you shall be the first to see royal flags take to the sky as airships rain down fire from above.” With that, he spun on his heel and left the room, the red clad soldiers doing the same, keeping their guns pointed at Fletcher until they were out of sight.
~
Later that night, when a less bribeable guard had been set, Fletcher limped to a heavy chest in his quarters, his cane tapping in time with his steps. Plucking a key from his boot he clicked the lock open and peered inside. There were the original plans, in their entirety, safe and sound. Good luck indeed. He thought smugly, re-locking the chest. You may have pulled the wool over my eyes, but good luck building an airship without the entire instructions. Even with the missing information, Fletcher knew the Crown would put all their smartest minds on the task of translating the plans, and it was only a matter of time before they found a solution.
Stepping outside, Fletcher gazed passed the port and up into the tangled trees that coated DaVinci’s Isle. Only a matter of time….
~
Remember, July 15th! 5-10pm we raise our mugs of (non alcohol) ale and give our best arrr impressions. Looking forward to seeing you scallywags!
-Captain Fletcher/Jorrok