Cerulean Isle by G.M. Browning Read Free Book Online

Christoff.
    “Once you have stolen the sea chart,” Christoff began, “make for the harbor. I will lead Shanley there. He will think he is about to make a grand sale, but Obsidian’s crew will be there to capture him and bring him aboard. He will answer to Captain L’Ollon for his crimes.”
    L’Ollon threw his heavy sword across the room. The tip of the blade stuck into the wooden wall. The pommel wobbled from side to side.
    “There is time yet,” he said, now sitting on the edge of the desk. “Four days, to be precise. I want you both to work the main deck until we reach Curacao, so I can keep an eye on you. Once land is on the horizon, I will provide you with fresh clothing and the necessary tools to help you accomplish the mission. Now I ask only once, do you have any questions?”
    “When the job is over, Captain, what of Jacob and I?” asked Grant.
    L’Ollon’s brow arched. He stepped close to Grant and peered down at him. Strands of his black hair sprouted from under the red scarf and dangled over his eyes. “Are you asking, Cooper, for a reward? You want a share of the gold, do you?”
    “I desire no gold, Captain.”
    “Then what, in the wrath of Neptune, do you ask?”
    “To sign, Captain. I want to be official on board this great ship. I desire to be an articled crewmember. That is all I ask.”
    I could not understand Grant’s passion for the pirate life. Why would Grant desire to serve the ruthless L’Ollon? I wanted freedom. I wanted off the Obsidian and to be rid of Jean L’Ollon forever. I imagined asking for that. I envisioned myself standing tall and proud as Grant and asking the vicious pirate to let me go.
    “I’ll tell you what, Cooper,” said L’Ollon. “There is something else I want. If you can steal this item along with my sea chart, the shipboard articles will be spread out before you and you can sign your worthless name with my quill. How does that sound?”
    “Excellent, Captain. What more shall I obtain for you?”
    “A book, young cooper.”
    “A book, sir?”
    “Yes. In the private quarters of his villa, you will find a small library. Among the dusty tomes waits a book, small and crudely bound in sun-bleached brown leather. It is tied with a dark blue ribbon. Shanley has this book. I want it. You must get it but do not open it.”
    L’Ollon walked over to the window. The sunlight shone on his face as he stared out at the endless water. His left hand fell on the handle of his pistol. Silence filled the cabin and several long minutes passed. The ship creaked as it swam over the waves.
    “Christoff,” said L’Ollon suddenly, “set them to work on the main deck. Instruct them as you see fit. Teach them anything you desire. As for the deaf one, leave him in the cage until we reach land. No food, only water.”
    “Understood, Captain. Come along, lads.”

Chapter 8
Young Pirates
     
    So it was that Grant and I began our work on the main deck among the crew.
    Christoff showed us many things over the next several days and instructed the other pirates to share their knowledge when needed. There was excitement in Grant’s eyes as he worked alongside the pirates. Every chore he was given, he performed with a smile and hardly took time to rest. The other pirates liked his eagerness and energy. They took full advantage of him, using him to lighten their loads.
    I did what I was told. My life depended on it. Captain L’Ollon made his rounds and often stood on the forecastle looking down at the working crew. I could feel his eyes watching me. My misery was obvious, and he reveled in making matters worse.
    During midday, the Caribbean sun always shines the hottest. L’Ollon commented, “You look overheated, Jacob.”
    I nodded, not sure how to respond.
    “Give me your shirt, then. You’ll feel better with the spray of the sea on your back.”
    I obeyed and handed him the garment. The edge of his mouth curled to a devilish half grin. He left me to my work without saying