Ship - The Black Pearl - 4 Years BDC

[Ariel]

"all of these occurrences align with the mythology of a mythical being with such validity that I am moved to look beyond scientific possibilities and embrace the impossible. So I ask you, dear Count; Are the whispered rumors true? Are you a vampire?"

"Why, yes I am," Dracula took pride in the creature he was as he couldn't help but to grin impressively over the fact that Etta had figured him out so quickly. Most never figured him out until his charms wore off and they found their own blood being drained from them or worse. Whether they were wooed by undeniable charisma or placed under hypnosis, none of who he encountered as a snack stood much of a chance to question him.

"And there needn't be any reason to utter whispers, it's definitely no secret," Dracula spoke in a gentle matter of fact tone as he continued to explain his position, "Simply, no one ever really bothers to ask. Or has the courage to, that is. I mean no harm now and certainly meant no harm to the villagers back home. Like you mentioned, my diet is very particular." Chuckling lightly to himself, Dracula played a bit of the outsider card. Yet, there was definitely a reason why he had been an outsider most of his life. He tried his best to let go many of the villagers he had enticed into his castle to feed as to not create an uproar in the village nearby. He had gotten better at practicing self control, though his impulsive nature would take over once in a while and unfortunately couldn't spare them all.

"If you really believed my existence was of the impossible, dear Etta, there are much more wilder ideas in this land that we could only have dreamt of back home. Real magic capable of moving mountains...but you've been here longer than I, so I'm sure I can spare you details of what you already know," Dracula leaned back in his chair once more, passing backwards over the food that he was incapable of eating. Sure, nothing beat the Land Without Color, but he was getting used to this new enchanting land. It grew on him, as magical and romantic as it may seem sometimes.

[Hollywood Heidi]

His prideful grin had had her grinning back in kind. As an educated female scientist, she understood all too well being proud of something about yourself that was out of the ordinary or frowned upon by others.

"Ah, but what happens here is more easily accepted. This is a world removed from our own, so I can find logic in the fact that the scientific laws and theories may not match our own. But if you think on it," she said, sitting forward and becoming more animated in her gesturing after going so long without deep, intellectual conversation, "many things we are first introduced to--new discoveries, new inventions--can strike us as awe inspiring, even miraculous at times. All it simply takes is to take a step back and break it down. Once you understand the mechanics, the science, the mathematics--" she rolled her hand in an et cetera motion, "the inner workings or the make-up of the thing, you may still find awe in it, but it is no longer magical." Etta sat back again, tapping her fingers on her crossed arms, looking thoughtful. "Given the time to study and understand the laws that make up this world, I'm sure I could crack the science of this whole 'magic' thing," she finished with air quotes.

Suddenly realizing that Jimmy was standing in the open door, and for more than a few seconds now judging by the glazed look in the eyes he held on her, Etta beckoned him in. "Jimmy, come on in."

Jimmy seemed to shake himself out of a daze and put on a respectful smile for the Captain and Acting First Mate. "Your drink, Count, sir. Is there anything else ye'll be needin'?"

"No, thank you, Jimmy. That'll be all." He started to turn but hesitated and Etta could see he wanted to ask a question. Always one to encourage curiosity in someone who seemed to have a genuine interest in learning, she turned the same question toward him, "Is there something you're needing, Jimmy?"

Knowing she'd shown patience with his curiosities in the past, he didn't hesitate long. "Beggin' your pardon, Captain, but I couldn't help overhearing a bit of what you were saying. Couldn't rightly understand most of it but... did you say you could..." he paused, trying to grasp at the proper terminology and unable to, blurted out, "work out how magic works?"

Squelching an amused grin so as to not discourage him from asking questions in future, Etta simply shrugged. "Well, if you break it down, magic is simply the act of manipulating elements or molecules." At his confused look over that last word, she simplified, "The parts that make up a thing. But to answer your question, I'm fairly confident I could if I put by mind to it. But that does not go beyond this room," she quickly interjected. "I don't want any of those men conjuring up any crazy notions. It would probably take years of research and studies, a massive amount of painstaking experiments." She sighed over how exhausting that sounded. "I need to work some things out with the Count, so off you go now. We can talk more later. Close the door on your way out, please."

He grinned and nodded and seeing the wheels in the boy's head turn in thought and wonderment, Etta smiled, turning her attention to Dracula again when the door closed, allowing them privacy.


"Goodness, my apologies. I went off on a bit of a tangent there. It's been awhile since I've had the opportunity to really use my mind in conversation without the other person's eyes glazing over. Regarding the fact of what you are not being a secret, I hate to ask this of you, but perhaps it's best the crew does not know." She truly looked pained, and tried to come up with the kindest way to say people would fear him simply for what he was. "Given your particular diet and the amount of time we'll be spending out at sea... I can't imagine anyone taking to the notion they are not at the top of the food chain well. I, on the other hand," she interjected, trying to soften what she felt was a slight he'd had to constantly face, "find what you are to be utterly fascinating. We're going to have to work out a plan, but in order to do that, I need to understand the mechanics of you." She grinned cheekily at her own reference back to how her mind worked.

[Ariel]

"Goodness, my apologies. I went off on a bit of a tangent there. It's been awhile since I've had the opportunity to really use my mind in conversation without the other person's eyes glazing over. Regarding the fact of what you are not being a secret, I hate to ask this of you, but perhaps it's best the crew does not know."

Etta had been incredibly spot on. Not once did Dracula's mind wander, nor did his eyes show that he were to have grown bored with their conversation at hand. It was moments like these where he did miss being back at home with his monsters, where outcasts of society could come together and be just as accepting and fascinated as the other that was in front of them. Dracula felt that this bond being formed was cosmic, and even more proof that she belonged in his care. Although Dracula knew that Etta was accepting of who he was, she reminded him that others aboard the ship might not be as open minded. Dracula nodded affirming that he was expecting this outcome, and he was okay with that. Whether the mortal men on the ship knew or didn't know about him being a vampire did not scrape any inches off of his pride whatsoever. He only looked for the acceptance and happiness of one. 

"Given your particular diet and the amount of time we'll be spending out at sea... I can't imagine anyone taking to the notion they are not at the top of the food chain well. I, on the other hand,"  "find what you are to be utterly fascinating. We're going to have to work out a plan, but in order to do that, I need to understand the mechanics of you." 

It was difficult for Dracula not to think of the men aboard of this ship like one would of a buffet. So many options, old and young. He wouldn't lie and say that it wouldn't be a joy to play a little bit with the swine that disrespected their Captain. He'd get his morsel and they'd have striking fear of being fast food again to keep them in line. Yet, those were merely thoughts he pondered over as he continued to listen to what Etta needed in this very moment from him. Dracula leaned back to cross one leg over the other before stretching his arms out to each side in offering, "For my Captain, I am an open book. Ask me anything." Dracula encouraged, already loving their dynamic.

[Hollywood Heidi]

While Dracula got comfortable and casual, Etta felt herself pulling more and more taught, like the string of a bow pulling back with each question that piled up in her mind. Etta looked upward as if peering at the questions in her mind.

"Goodness, where to start." She pursed her lips and blew out an overwhelmed sigh from the corner of her mouth that set the hair along the right side of her face ruffling. She sat up straight and leaned forward with anticipation. It wasn't often she stumbled across something that managed to capture her fascination and rarer still these day for an opportunity to learn and expand her knowledge base. She gathered herself, lest she fire off all the arrows that had compiled in her question quiver at once. It would be best to allow logic rather than curiosity to guide the order of her questions. "How often do you require nourishment?" she finally asked, her eyes settling back on him.

[Ariel]

"How often do you require nourishment?"

Dracula folded his claws together and placed them to rest on the table in front of him professionally, as if he were in an interview, "Once a day is satisfactory for my needs. I can, of course, fast longer. Though, the longer I am without sustenance the weaker I become. I only ever went without a morsel for many days just once. My complexion can grow faded and thin, and the bones in my body become decrepit and brittle. It's not a pretty sight, if you ask me. Frightening even." Dracula's words were spoken with shame over what becomes of him without drops of blood to quench his thirst - human blood. Though, there was one detail he left out verbally and would be amazed once more if Etta were to catch on. Without human blood, especially blood of the youthful, his weakest and most powerless state is the reversal of his strikingly handsome complexion. At this point, if his body were to transition into his true age, he feared he'd be nothing but a worthless bag of bones. With so much on the line, he never wanted to let that happen ever again.

[Hollywood Heidi]

Etta did not look the least bit worried over finding anything frightening in the outer appearance of a living thing. She'd seen all sorts of images in her studies. The nature of life both at its best and worst. If anything, it was actual worry rather than fright at the thought of him or any living thing wasting away.

"Well, that's precisely what most living beings would go through without nourishment. Though we mere, boring humans depend on more than one meal a day to get us by," she said, giving a grin and keeping things light despite the wheels in her curious mind continuing their furious turning. Wasn't it rumored that he was immortal? What, then, would that mean if one could deteriorate yet not perish due to lack of nourishment? Immortal or not, it was rumored that he was very old. Yet he did not look it. Considering he was capable of deteriorating if not provided nourishment, she could only deduce that it was this said nourishment that kept him looking like the handsome, debonair man in the prime of his life who sat before her.

But Etta did not inquire as to his mortality, eternal or otherwise. Perhaps another day and only after she'd gotten a better read on his personality. She did not wish to insult or make him feel like a lab rat for her to clinically dissect via questions he may not feel comfortable answering. For now, she needed to stick to pertinent questions. "This once-a-day, is one person sufficient? And how long would this person--or persons," she added, better breaking down her concern over the crew taking notice of mysterious lengthy disappearances of fellow crewmates, "be... out of commission?"

[Ariel]

"This once-a-day, is one person sufficient? And how long would this person--or persons," "be... out of commission?"


Never before had Dracula engaged in such a casual conversation regarding his diet. Utter amazement continued to come across his complexion at the overwhelming realization of Etta's acceptance of not only his diet, but of what he was exactly. He wasn't so sure why he was surprised, as she was just as unhuman as he was. Etta's acceptance meant something to him as the two misfits of society bonded over this dietary difference.

"One is typically satisfactory," Dracula admitted shamelessly as he was quick to answer her query with a slight nod, "As for how long they're out for has depended on a couple of factors," Dracula was not hesitant with Etta as he confided in her of the details of the feeding process, "There had been many a time where I wouldn't know where and when my next morsel would come from. One gentleman in particular had been residing in my home for many days, almost a month to be exact. By the time he had left, he was barely recognizable. Shriveled like a prune and barely able to stand on his two feet. Poor fellow," Dracula tisked as he shook his head in a regrettable fashion before returning back to the conversation at the table, "Like I said, I was at my wit's end then. I don't have any need to abuse my resources no longer. Most may feel a tad ill for a day before they're back on their feet." Dracula looked Etta in the eye with all the seriousness he had in his being. He knew she was no fool, and he would never treat her as such. 

[Hollywood Heidi]

"...Poor fellow,"

The way he spoke so casually about the gentleman as if he were an insignificant object that had been well purposed until worn to uselessness sent a little chill down Etta's spine. Would her heart be warning her to be more fearful of him if it was in its proper place, she wondered? She did not show the affect the confession had on her other than a bit of seriousness taking on her features; an understandable reaction any respectable captain of a ship who cared about their crew would show.


"Like I said, I was at my wit's end then. I don't have any need to abuse my resources no longer. Most may feel a tad ill for a day before they're back on their feet."

Etta listened and processed, taking deep consideration and thought in light of the unusual circumstances of an unusual being. It eased her mind that it seemed he did not feel the need to use a human to such extremes unless the circumstances were extenuating. The fight to survive was natural in all living things. Still, the way he referred to humans as 'morsels' and 'resources' was disconcerting, but less so when she took into consideration that humans spoke and thought of their own sustenance in the same disconnected manner. Also taking into considering the rumors of how long he'd been around, the lifespan of a human must seem utterly fleeting to him. Like a fly to a human. Looking at it from that angle, it was a wonder he held any regard at all for the life of a human.

Etta finally pulled herself from her deep processing, the wheels in her head continuing to turn, pulling together more and more semblance of a working plan. She focused her gaze back on him and gave an assertive nod in understanding and acceptance, then continued to gather more of the missing pieces of information needed to fill out the plan. "The ability to make them forget; how does that work?" Her utter fascination and curiosity was sneaking in. Etta quickly revised the question to be more concise and constructive. "I mean, how much control do you have over it? Is it basic and dependent on the person or can you somehow control how much time is erased from their mind? Can you pick and choose... pluck certain memories away. Can you even embed false memories?" Etta stopped the stream of questions her mind was endlessly cranking. So much for concise. At least she'd managed to keep constructive.

[Ariel]

"The ability to make them forget; how does that work?"  "I mean, how much control do you have over it? Is it basic and dependent on the person or can you somehow control how much time is erased from their mind? Can you pick and choose... pluck certain memories away. Can you even embed false memories?" 

Dracula stared through Etta's eyes, as if they were windows, to take a slight peek as to what was going on inside her head. He could see her scientific wheels turning, longing to understand from a technical point of view. Grinning as she spoke, Dracula fell absolutely pleased with the Captain's dedication to understanding just exactly how he ticked. Yet, he was aware that his mystical existence was far from logic and he far from a simple equation that could be figured out on a whiteboard.

"Hypnosis is one of my many abilities. I can make mortals forget years, if not decades of their lives. However, wiping their memory entirely does not serve me. Only a little amnesia to make them forget their encounters with me protects my livelihood and them from ravenous night terrors," Dracula wasted no time jumping into explanations for Etta, as he felt completely and entirely comfortable as well as safe in her presence, "The memories gained does not come from the hypnosis, surprising as it may seem. One drop of a mortal's blood on my tongue can trigger a surge of fragments from the life they live, sometimes I can even temporarily adopt traits and mannerisms of the one which whose blood I've consumed," Dracula confessed without giving too many details away. Etta deserved to know these things about him, yet there were details he would leave in the dark for now. What Etta didn't truly know wouldn't hurt her, after all, "All life lies in the blood, Etta, no modifications or alterations."

[Hollywood Heidi]

So far, every rumor she could recall had been either confirmed, denied, or clarified. But the fact that he could see a person's life, basically see their memories, was not a rumor she'd ever heard. It was fascinating. Apparently blood had even more of a link to one's life than even she, as a scientist, could fathom. This went beyond anything that could be easily studied, seeing as Dracula was the first and only vampire she'd ever known. Adopting a person's traits and mannerisms, that was yet another layer of fascination. 'And, probably an amusing party trick,' she thought in dark, slightly morbid amusement.

She could only nod her agreement. Despite not being able to acquire the piece of paper that would allow her the title of 'doctor' due to her gender, she'd studied and learned just as much, if not more, than any man who held the title. "Well, the term 'lifeblood' came about for a reason," she mused distractedly with a smirk.

Etta may have a million other questions, but they were only to appease her curiosity. She had enough information to form a plan and her mind was already busy piecing one together. Her expression turned serious as her eyes wandered sightlessly to a spot on the wall before her, thumb resting on the side of her jaw as her index finger lightly traced her lower lip, her physical tell that she was in deep thought, most likely plotting or working out a complex situation.


Nighttime would be best. There were usually only three men on deck to watch for threats or hazards. They were widely spread out, each keeping to their posts on opposite sides, the ship completely dark but for the little light the moon provided. No lanterns were allowed for the ship's own safety in order to remain as undetectable as possible to the threat of other ships looking for an easy mark, knowing the crews of most ships would be down below, fast asleep, leaving the ship vulnerable and easy for the taking.

If one of the night watch crew went missing for a short time, it would not be noticed. The watch assigned to walk the length of the bow and the one the stern were vital. However, the third was an extra precaution, assigned to take turns dividing his time between watching from the centers of port and starboard in case one of the other two missed something. He would be the closest and easiest to lure to her or Dracula's quarters. No, she'd prefer her quarters. She would like to be present to be sure that things went as planned; that each man walked away from the terrifying experience well and oblivious of what had transpired. She also felt she, herself, did not deserve to be oblivious to what she was allowing to happen to her crew for the survival of one unusual crewmember she was seriously considering for the replacement First Mate. It was a high moral cost being paid in order for her to have a right hand man she could trust to keep her from losing control and taking out her entire crew. As Captain and the one who should always have the best interest of her crew at heart, she also deserved to have the initiation of each act on her conscience. That being said, she would be the one to go out on deck to bring each one to the fate she lead them to without their consent.

No matter the route, people were always at risk where she was concerned. It was all about choosing the lesser evil. But now was not the time to dwell on guilt. The sooner she could complete her deal with the Dark One, the sooner she could remove herself to a secluded place, far from people, with the guarantee of her father's wellbeing still intact.

Etta had to concentrate on each step as she got to them. Pulling herself from spiraling further beyond the now, Etta's hand dropped back to the table as her serious, yet solemn gaze returned to Dracula, Captain ready to make her decree. "This is how it is going to happen..."

~*~*~*~*~

[Hollywood Heidi]

---

---

The rest of the day passes.

It is now late at night.

---

---

[Ariel]

Dracula gasped slightly as beads of water dripped down his chin, the aftermath of the spine chilling splash of cold water he had just given himself. He peered down at his reflection in the small basin that sat on a small table in Henrietta's cabin. Handsome and pale, yet he noticed a weariness in his eyes as they began to grow weak from the hunger that gnawed away at his throat. He turned his head to point his chin slightly to the right as he examined his face. A slight pang of anxiety overcame him as he lifted a single claw up to graze his cheek. Unsure if his cheeks had started to slightly cave inwards or if his hunger was beginning to make him hallucinate, Dracula's eyes darted to a dried cloth beside the basin. Having had enough of the dread of his condition, Dracula got over himself as he washed his face dry of the cleaning face bath. An attempt at freshening himself up before dinner. Nothing scared Dracula more than withering away to nothing but saggy skin and bones. Completely powerless and incapable of fulfilling his dreams and wishes. Dracula knew he was lucky to have come across Henrietta's path, just as she was lucky the day he stumbled into her cabin. It was a known fact that at this point, they needed each other more than ever.

Throwing the cloth to the side, he perched himself on the edge of the bed that resided in the cabin. Running the specifics of Etta's wishes and wants in his mind, she had his feedings down to every intricate detail. There was no choice for him, he had to feed and she knew that she had to keep him well fed if she wanted not only a functioning first mate but also someone who had enough strength to help keep her and her counterpart under control. Sitting on the bed in waiting for Etta's return, his eyes started to water slightly as the burning sensation of hunger crept up his throat. Pulling on the collar of his white dress blouse, Dracula attempted to clear his throat of the pain but nothing helped. Only the quenching taste of blood could cure him. The hand that rested on the top of his thigh began to tense up, his claws digging into his own flesh in dire anticipation.

[Hollywood Heidi]

Etta lingered under the stairs outside her cabin and observed the figure of the man holding watch from port. He took short steps back and forth, staring out at sea. Finally, he walked across deck to starboard, where he did the same. It wasn't until he'd finished that round and was beginning to head back toward port that she'd worked up the courage to pull off this deed for the first time.

Her first steps toward making this plan a reality. The first undeserving victim to be tricked into serving as a meal. It had to be done. Even without her heart in place, it had taken her some time to overcome the feeling of right and wrong. With her heart in place, she wasn't sure if she'd have been able to pull this off at all, taking the cowardly route to allow Dracula to do his own hunting and feeding while she remained in her cabin where she couldn't see it happen and could try to pretend it wasn't.

But her first steps began to falter when the man, faceless in the darkness, was neither at port nor starboard. Where had he gone, she wondered as she continued stepping forward and glancing left and right in the darkness.

Suddenly, an arm shot out from behind the mast and grabbed. She gasped in surprise as she found herself painfully pinned against it. She took a couple of deep breaths to calm away the stirring monster within. To her unfortunate luck, on this first night of this new plan, it had been the man who'd disrespected her before realizing she was the captain. The one she'd had to make an example of and had pegged as a potential problem when catching the look on his face after she'd done so. It being not even a full day with him and the other new recruits, she hadn't learned his name yet.

"I could feel you watching me, woman." He said the word in a demeaning tone. "Were ye looking for a bit of... entertainment?" he asked as he pressed himself even closer, using that same word he had when referring to her as the entertainment earlier that day.

The man's hands began to wander and Etta barely held back from gagging. Not only did he appear to have no respect for women, but worse, no respect for his captain. She was tempted to perform a move that would send him off balance, then run him through with her sword, but that would ruin the plan. Etta had to catch him off guard. "Why yes, actually," she said, placing her hands on his forearms and running them upward, "I was," she finished, leaning in close. And catch him off guard, she did. The surprise on his face finally melted into a leer and he started to lean closer, but Etta placed a finger over his lips. "Not here," she whispered, looking around conspiratorially. "We could be spotted. We wouldn't want to be interrupted in the middle of our entertainment, now would we?" He glanced around also, looking in full agreement. "My quarters, five minutes."

With a dark chuckle that made her skin crawl, he released her. Etta had to measure each of her steps to stop herself from hightailing it the rests of the way. She threw a suggestive glance over her shoulder to be sure she was still in the clear. He remained where he was, then at her glance, wandered back toward port to put on the act of keeping watch for those five minutes.



Etta smartly shut the door behind her, cursing below her breath and swiping her hands over various areas of herself as if it could remove the memory of that man's disgusting hands on her. She began to pace off the rest of the adrenaline brought about by the anger and fear to put the monster within her at full rest. "That disgusting, vial pig. It was the one I'd marked as trouble." Etta placed her hands on her lower back where the protruding base of the mast had dug in and rubbed at the ache as she continued to pace. "He'll be here in five minutes. I feel absolutely no remorse where he is concerned."

[Ariel]

Dracula flinched from his state of pain and torture that his own body was inflicting upon him at the sound of the slamming door. His Captain had reappeared right in the shut doorway, completely struck with disgust and horror as she appeared to be brushing filth off of her clothes. Alarmed at seeing her in such a state, Dracula forgot about his hunger and stood to his feet his Captain began to furiously pace the floorboards of the Cabin. "Etta...,"

"That disgusting, vial pig. It was the one I'd marked as trouble." "He'll be here in five minutes. I feel absolutely no remorse where he is concerned."

Dracula's features hardened as anger began to boil from within. He saw just how vile those pigs Etta called crew had been treating her. It would have only been a matter of time after that before one of them were to be foolish enough to try something incredibly stupid. As Dracula's eyes fixated on Etta, he felt a pang of guilt that he wasn't there to stop the encounter from happening. Because if he had been, oh, the things Dracula would have done to him in the spur of the moment. There probably wouldn't be any ham left on the squealing pig. Yet, he was still alive and crawling around this ship, probably slithering his way down to the cabin as they stood there fuming in this room. 

"He will pay. Once I'm done with him, he'll have to live with this night for the rest of his life. And trust me, he'll wish that he would have never been born," Dracula's fangs clenched together as he spoke with hatred in his voice, "Mark my words, Captain Henry. An example will be made of this vile pig tonight." Dracula softened slightly as he looked over at Etta who was trying to keep the beast inside of her at bay.

"Etta," Dracula took caution as he slowly made his way up to his Captain, "I understand how you feel right now. But you must put your hatred to rest, surrender it over to me," Dracula placed a hand on Etta's shoulder, her whole body shook, "Devote your strength to the light, and I will make sure that he pays for what he has done." Dracula encouraged her. He knew that she was strong, but he also noticed her struggle. From this day onward, Etta would never have to go through these moments alone. He would take care of her.

[Hollywood Heidi]

Etta listened to Dracula's words and heeded them, feeling the anger slowly simmer away. She closed her eyes, drew in a deep breath, then slowly let it out along with the last of the anger. As he started to remove his hand from her shoulder, Etta took it, squeezing lightly to emphasize how much his help had meant to her. "Thank you, Drac." Distracted, she'd unknowingly called him by a shortened version of his name. Nicknames were a sign of trust and friendship, both of which she was truly beginning to feel toward him after he'd shown how capable he was of keeping her monster at bay, knowing and respecting how important that was to her.

Releasing his hand, her calmed mind started to think like a Captain again and she began to form ideas of how to deal with this problem pirate. Etta moved around the cabin, snuffing out all candles but the ones by the door, putting Drac and the rest of the cabin into darkness. "I would like to say a few words to him first; give him a chance to show remorse. One last chance to make this easy on him." Since they both knew that was unlikely, there was still another important reason. "At the least, he needs to fully comprehend the severity of my warnings and the price that is paid when they are not heeded."

Her cabin door opened before they had a chance to discuss further, but she knew Drac would respect her wishes. Etta was ready and waiting. As soon as the pirate closed it behind him, Etta shoved him hard against the door, lifted the shoulder of his coat, and drove her dagger through it, deep into the door with a bit of strength drawn from the monster within, careful not to draw any blood. There would be plenty of that later.

She took a step back and watched him struggle with confusion and growing anger. "Unpleasant to be held against your will, is it not?"


"Bitch!" He growled out as he unsuccessfully tried pulling the dagger free from an awkward angle.

Etta placed her hands behind her back, looking calm and cool as she slowly paced in front of him. "Now that's no way to speak to your captain. Stand still!" she ordered with such authority that he complied and looked at her, seeing that same flash of anger with something very scary lurking behind her eyes. The same he'd seen when she'd sent him cowering back into the group before her speech. "I warned you all of the consequences of crossing me, yet you did not heed them, putting not only yourself, but the crew in danger." The pirate snickered his disbelief. Etta came to a stop before him. "What is your name, sailor?"


"Hobson," he answered succinctly, continuing to eye her in disbelief but with a hint of weariness.

"Mr. Hobson. You've heard the stories of Captain Henry, have you not?" At his nod, she continued. "And you had no reason not to believe them, given the evidence that was found?" Again he nodded, but only after eyeing her once again and this time, his agreement came with some hesitation. "Without hesitation, I'd wager, yet after learning that I am a woman, you hesitate to believe. Let me assure you," she said sternly, stepping closer and invading his personal space like he'd done earlier, with that darkness still burning behind her eyes, "that I am even more capable than any man of tearing you limb from limb and if you drive me to it, I will not be able to stop there. The blood of the entire crew will be on your hands, but, on the bright side, you will not be alive to live with the guilt. Do you understand me, Mr. Hobson?"

Paled and looking properly put in his place, just as before, he nodded silently. "Good." Etta yanked the dagger free and stepped back, sheathing it, preparing for what was coming next. His reactions had so far mirrored earlier which meant that his low view of women would soon have his anger begin to boil below the surface at having been cowed by one. She'd given him the chance to have this go as painfully for him as possible, but she just knew he'd stupidly ignore all her warnings.

As predicted, she heard a slow growl emit from him as he started for her. Etta quickly turned to the side and grabbed his arm, yanking him unexpectant forward and while his weight was off balance, she kicked at his leg, sending him sprawling onto his face. He flipped himself over, blinking in surprise. "It seems the only thing that can teach you to respect women is another man," she said on a tired sigh. "Very well then."

Etta stepped to the side and made a sweeping 'all yours' gesture toward the shadows. Hobson's wide eyes snapped toward the darkness as he started to scramble back and attempted to get to his feet at the same time, fear starting anew at whatever unseen thing the Captain had unleashed on him.

[Ariel]

Dracula had been slinking amongst the shadows of the dimly lit cabin as Etta and the prospective prey entered. Without making a single sound, Dracula's head flinched in their direction. He still struggled with his hunger, yet gained enough strength in waiting to keep it locked inward as the scene before him unfolded. Bringing the two into view, Dracula did not withdraw his painfully thirsty sight once as he ensured that this vile man would not try anything funny on their Captain. As soon as Etta twirled around and threw the disgusting creature up the wall as rightfully deserved, a pleasing smile cracked upon Dracula's face as he intentionally listened from the darkness that flickered among the candlelight. To say he was impressed, was an understatement. As Etta gave this man a mighty tongue lashing, Dracula watched proudly in his temporary solace from afar. She had come so far from the shaking woman pinned to the stake. A powerful force of her own, Dracula was amazed at how she had truly grown into a remarkable, all fearing beast. One he would be absolutely delighted in standing side by side with on this ship - and in their future life together with the rest of the monsters back home. His mouth began to saliva as the hunger grew, knowing that his boundaries of control were growing immensely thin. Just in time for Etta to toss this terrible man aside to one who could make a imprint on his brain to teach him a lesson full of terror.

"It seems the only thing that can teach you to respect women is another man," "Very well then."

Dracula's eyes were watering pools of lava as his reddened eyes scorched in pain as they made contact with Etta's. At this point, Dracula's immense hunger transformed him into half vampire, half animal as he slowly crawled out of the darkness. Intoxicated with the thirst that slowly took over his sound mind, Dracula gurgled a low growl as he set his sight on Hobson, who had now noticed the vampire's existence. "Ever met the boogeyman before?" Dracula crawled on top of Hobson who had fallen to the floor, frozen in sheer terror. Opening his mouth, Dracula showed off his salivating fangs to his prey as he slowly lowered his face down to the man's neck. His bloodshot, beady eyes never ceased to break contact with the fright in the mortal's eyes. If anything, it fueled his desire for blood more, "He's child's play...compared to me." Dracula whispered into Hobson's ear. As if he had inhaled a bout of ecstasy, Dracula paused his fangs above the man's neck allowed a pleasurable sigh escape right before sinking his teeth into the man's artery, coursing blood through his body and right into Dracula's throat. Dracula was on the outside in the mortal world sucking the life blood from this man, while on the inside of Hobson's head, it was as if a Freddy Kruger nightmare was surrounding him as all of his worst fears came to life. Deep within, Dracula's sound mind kept reminding him that the mortal needed to be spared, for lessons had to be taught and examples needed to be made in order to succeed as Etta's right hand man. By the time this was all over and the amnesia would kick in, it would be passed off to Hobson as he simply fainted and had a "nightmare." One of those incidences was correct, and he would never be the same again, striking fear into anyone who would dare to cross Captain Henry and first mate Count Dracula.

***

[Hollywood Heidi]

*~*~*~*~*~*

Etta stood at the wheel, noting by the placement of the sun that it had begun setting on yet another day at sea. It would be two nights since she'd first lured one of her crew to her cabin. Hobson and a second troublesome, though less bold about it, crewman were now very different toward their captain, and the rest of the crew had taken note of the dramatic change. Gone were their leers and disrespectful words. No longer did they attempt to manipulate the other crew with their thoughts and ideas of whispered mutiny. They now looked upon Captain Henry and her right-hand man with equal parts fear and loyalty. The drastic change was enough to heighten those along with other positive qualities in the rest of the crew.

But it did not rid her of all problematic crewmen. There would always be the troublemakers or the ones who would not fully respect a woman as a superior, and some who would not respect any person as a superior, greedily seeing themselves in a position of power. The cycle would continue with those remaining needing to be put in their place and new crew joining who had yet to learn the way of things in Captain Henry's crew. She was glad to have the loyalty of young Jimmy, for the crew were never shy about talking openly around a lowly cabin boy. They hardly acknowledged the young lad's existence.

With Jimmy's reports, Etta would be able to pinpoint the troublemakers and work out the night watch duties to land the worst offender to center deck duty. From there, she would continue the ritual of getting that crewman to Dracula awaiting his nourishment in her quarters. The level to which she would allow Dracula to affect their minds would depend on the level of threat they were to her, and in turn, she to the crew at large if they'd have succeeded.


Etta gazed sightlessly ahead to the endless water, keeping the wheel straight as her memories took her back to that first night. Dracula had become something different. The red eyes, the fangs. His features twisting into that of an animalistic predator as he approached his prey, using his words to toy with it before sinking his fangs into his prey's neck.

Watching it all unfold had been an odd mix of terrifying and fascinating. Her head had twitched to the side as if in a natural inclination to look away, but she could not tear her eyes from it. What should have been horrifying was inexplicably mesmerizing and strangely alluring, almost as if she was anticipating being his next prey. It did not matter how strong of mind one was. They were no match for the supernatural draw of Dracula when he was in full predator mode.


"LAND HO!"

Etta was startled from her thoughts at the cry of the pirate up in the crow's next. She took one hand off the wheel to rub away the chills that had gone up her arms over the last of her thoughts and focused her eyes ahead, spotting Tortuga in the distance. She noted that she'd been lost in thought for some time. The sun was nearly gone and the faint twinkle of stars in the darkening sky were beginning to show.

It was time to prepare the crew. Etta gave the signal to the second mate. He hurried over and took the wheel as she took her spot at the rail, Dracula joining her by her side from her place looking down at the deck, ready to give her usual speech upon making port. Like after every port, there would be new ears to hear her warnings and those who needed to be reminded of them.

There was the information on the short length of stay and warnings of causing trouble that would be brought down upon their captain and crew at large. There was the reminder that any information regarding Captain Henry was not to be spoken of beyond acknowledging they were part of Captain Henry's crew and that any rumors or stories they were asked to confirm by anyone daring enough to approach even a crewmember of Captain Henry's would be met with nothing beyond a grunt. It always went without saying that the fact Captain Henry was a woman was a secret to be kept of utmost importance. Such a simple thing would naively make some men forget their need to fear and give them ideas of taking on a woman, despite the stories they'd heard. Etta was very confidence that the men would not give this information away. Though some thought it would lose them their own respect for others to learn that they served a woman, all liked the fear and reverence they were shown when others learned they served on Captain Henry's crew.


"...And finally," Etta said, the men quieting at an unexpected addition to the usual monologue, "I would like to officially introduce you all to my new First Mate, Count Dracula." Etta placed a hand of support on Dracula's upper arm, turning to give him a firm nod of confidence in her decision, a hint of a smile over surprising him with it in this way. After a few hushed murmurs, no doubt over revealing that the new First Mate was titled, one by one, they brought their fist up to their chest in a show of respect to their new superior.

Turning to look back at her Second Mate, she nodded, giving the signal to proceed with his next task. As he continued at the wheel, he began barking out orders to prepare the ship for making port. Etta looked to Dracula and tilted her head toward the stairs. They needed to work out the final details in the privacy of her quarters.

[Ariel]

"LAND HO!"

"Ah, Tortuga. Have you ever heard the stories of it's drunken and boisterous reputation? A Pirate's heaven, especially for selling captured plunder. Best hope the Captain hasn't gotten tired of you and sells you off dear Jimmy...," Dracula broke into playful yet intimidating grin, patting Jimmy on the shoulder before advancing over to their Captain who was just allowing the second mate to take over the wheel, "Only kidding!" Dracula threw the mischievous remark over his shoulder. He found enjoyment out of menacing the youthful cabin boy, in good fun of course. His fangs wouldn't dare go anywhere close to the young man who played a vital role in his nourishments. Besides, Etta had taken a liking to the chap and the last thing Dracula wanted to do was create a complication.

As Dracula laid his sights on Henrietta, she appeared to be in an attempt to snap herself out of a daze. Though Dracula could only expect her to absorb so much of the overwhelming string of events that had occurred the past couple of days. From their first encounter where a contract sealed with promises of loyalty and devotion to Henrietta were proclaimed, things escalated at a rather intense rate. The past couple of nights, Dracula had turned The Black Pearl into The Blood Vessel as delinquents were brought to him behind closed doors. 'Keep your gaze to the horizon and try not to struggle...it spoils the flavour,' were the very words Dracula had uttered to his latest prey, his claw forcefully grabbed the back of the crewman's neck as he held the man's face in a constrained way to face the cabin window before being consumed by a dance with the devil. Dracula daydreamed wildly over the delicious amount of blood he had consumed last night, his lower jaw practically overflowed at one point as blood had oozed slightly over his bottom lip. Feeling his throat began to curl with slight hunger, Dracula knew that the day was setting and feeding time would be near once more. Besides keeping Henrietta happy and the men in line, he loved the fact that he merely had to make any moves himself while aboard. This ship was naturally full of an array of pigheaded characters. When they act out of line, Jimmy makes his report to the Captain and Dracula's bloody dinner of nightmares is served. He reveled confidently at these thoughts as he took his place next to Henrietta, beginning to address the crew.

"...And finally," "I would like to officially introduce you all to my new First Mate, Count Dracula." 

Dracula never got tired of the joyous ring Count made as it rang through his ears. Feeling a confident, confirming hand on his shoulder from Henrietta, he looked to her with widened eyes of surprise as a nod of thanks for using his preferred title expelled from his crown. Dracula couldn't help but to smile proudly as he turned from his Captain to face the crew, who were all paying their upmost respects to the new First Mate. The spout of fame was momentary as the crew dispersed, taking orders from the Second Mate who was manning the wheel. Dracula found Henrietta looking at him, her head motioning towards the stairs. Nodding in agreement, the Captain and the First Mate moved themselves to meet in the Captain's quarters.

"What further details might we be working out, Captain? Is it the fish? I understand Jimmy has remarked on it's peculiar smell as of late," Dracula addressed Henrietta as he closed the door behind him, turning his full attention to his Captain, "I can have a word with the fishermen to ensure their practices are not lacking. Being out on the open sea, one must hope the fish is fresh." Dracula chuckled, folding his hands behind his back as he took a few steps further into the room, meeting Etta halfway.

[Hollywood Heidi]

Etta chuckled at that. "One would hope," she agreed. "I think the crew assigned to fishing are attempting to save themselves the hassle of doing so each day by catching too many at once. Perhaps if we rotate responsibilities between all the crew, they won't find themselves growing bored with their assigned tasks," she finished as they disappeared into her quarters.

Shutting the door, she moved away from it, deeper into her quarters. Now that they were no longer near any ears that might overhear them, Etta turned the conversation toward the secret mission that would gain them the next step in obtaining the item that would fulfill her end of the bargain made with the Dark One. Needless to say, any information regarding treasures and the finding of them were always kept secret by the captains of any ship. Maps and information were securely locked away, lest greedy crewmembers get their hands on them and attempt to go after the treasure themselves or use it as a controlling factor in gaining the "loyalty" and following of the other crew.

Loyalty. She nearly scoffed aloud at the thought of it. It was a rare thing to find aboard a pirate ship, which was why captains took so many precautions and why it was imperative they had a First Mate they could fully trust and depend on. They were the only other person aboard the ship who knew the full details and destinations of missions well ahead of time while the crew was only given the barest of information and usually the direction without a clear answer as to the final heading until they were nearly upon it.

Save for their trip to Tortuga. The crew had known they were heading toward it as Etta had made it part of their task to speak widely about it at every port in hopes of luring a certain former captain of the Black Pearl and his compass to finding his feet back on the boards of the Pearl. Of course, the reason for asking them to speak of it was not revealed.


Etta went over the details of Dracula's mission once more. She was confident that he fully understood it, but this was more for her peace of mind as it was an imperative step to breaking herself free from the Dark One. She paced in thought as she spoke. "I'm hoping by now that Jack Sparrow has learned of the Pearl's plan to make port at Tortuga. Hopefully he's already made his way there. If we need to stay at port for a few days to await his arrival, it should not raise any suspicions."

Tortuga was one of the major havens for pirates and it wasn't uncommon for extended stays. "I'm not sure how, exactly, this..." she didn't like to use the word 'magic' because of its association to the Dark One and because she wasn't sure she could ever wrap her scientific mind around it, "inordinate compass of his works, so it would be best if we acquire both Sparrow and the compass. It shouldn't be difficult," she reassured, pausing and resting a hand on the hilt of her sword. "I'm sure he has designs on reacquiring his ship." She began to pace slowly again, head tilted in thought as she traced her lower lip, then pulled her hand away to wag a finger in the air with her new revelation. "Perhaps I could even use the Pearl as a bargaining tool to gain his cooperation." She'd no longer need the ship once she'd obtained Pandora's Box as she'd planned to return to her world with Dracula.

Pulling herself from future plans to concentrate on the current, Etta began pacing again, listing the tasks as she ticked them off on her fingers. "So, the compass, Jack Sparrow, a few new crewmembers to fill the vacancies, assigning a few of the men to restock provisions before we lose them to fun and fivol..." she broke off, finally stopping her pacing to turn and look at Dracula apologetically. "Sorry. I have every confidence in you, truly. It's just difficult for me to stay behind." Feeling useless. "The fact that I cannot contribute drives me mad," she finished on a frustrated sigh.

Etta wasn't sure if she'd ever get used to doling out orders. All her life, she'd had to prove herself in a field dominated by men. She was used to pulling more than just her own weight, never asking for help and tackling even the most difficult tasks on her own.

[Ariel]

"So, the compass, Jack Sparrow, a few new crewmembers to fill the vacancies, assigning a few of the men to restock provisions before we lose them to fun and fivol..." "Sorry. I have every confidence in you, truly. It's just difficult for me to stay behind." "The fact that I cannot contribute drives me mad,"

Dracula had made mental notes of Etta's pressing requests. She repeated them, inserting her thoughts and hopes every now and again. With how much thought and energy she had put into planning and anticipating for this mission to happen, Dracula became aware of just how much this port stop meant to her. Finding this infamous Captain and his compass was crucial, and being the polite creature he was, Dracula did not press her further in his curiosity. In due time, he was certain that if he was meant to be in the know about why this compass was so special to Etta, that she would eventually let him in. Besides, staying behind was already adding to her stress levels. Dracula could empathetically feel the weight of the situation cause pressing anxiety within her as they came closer and closer to the end of the conversation. He continued to hold the mood of the room as he never let go of the confidence he held, even through her frustrated state. Taking a few steps towards Etta, Dracula stared down at her with eyes filled of understanding and a reassuring grin, " There's no need to fret, Etta. A ship needs her Captain, after all," Dracula gently placed a hand on her forearm, hoping to soak up some of the dreadful feelings that had overcome her before his departure, "Let me assure you that I will not fail you." The ship jerked ever so slightly to a stop, insinuating that the ship had finally reached port and was set in park, "We're here. Time to find our Captain Jack Sparrow."

***Dracula exits to Tortuga***

[Hollywood Heidi]

Etta had donned her thick black cloak and gloves and stood in the shadow of her cabin's doorway, well out of sight of anyone outside of the ship, arms loosely crossed, she watched the men excitedly make their way down the gangway. Only a few men would stay behind in shifts to protect the ship and their captain, but the rest would blow off the steam of being cooped up by going landside to get their fill of booze and women.

She trusted that Dracula would also get the kind of fill he needed at some point during his tasks. With so big an area and so many patrons roaming every dark corner of the popular pirate destination, he would not be limited by great caution, nor would his intake be limited to just one person. It would free up her evening to have a proper meeting with this Sparrow character once he was aboard, but with more relief, it would free her of an evening of standing by and making herself watch what she'd been responsible for bringing upon the unsuspecting victim.


It was full dark by the time the last of the men had stepped off the ship.  She waited for the gangway to be pulled back up before pulling the large hood of her cloak well over her head, completely shadowing her face as she made her way over to get a view of the famed Tortuga.

Lifting her arms, she rested her hands on the railing on either side of her as she glanced out over the island, dimly lit and shadowed by the scatters of lanterns here and there.  The mix of various songs and merriment echoed back from the distance.


"Captain 'Enry!"

Etta looked down toward the last of her men who'd paused to brag to a few patrons who'd drunkenly stumbled over to gawk at the famed Black Pearl and perhaps catch a glimpse of her feared captain.  When the dark hooded figure who was a scythe away from looking like the Grim Reaper appeared at the railing, they'd given an enthusiastic call of the famed name.  They saw the dark, hooded figure's head angle downward and let out a loud "Yarrrr!" as they saluted her.  Etta grinned in the shadows of her hood but below, all that could be seen was a barely discernable nod.

More than satisfied with their experience, the patrons headed with her men to a tavern to brag over their bravery.  No doubt others would brave a closer look.  Etta did not mind lending a tangible view in the ominous form of a dark, hooded figure while she took her own fill of Tortuga from her perch.

[Ariel]

*** Later into the night, an hour before midnight ***

Back on familiar planks, Dracula was more than happy to be back on the Pearl. Especially with the success story that he was elated to reveal to Etta. The task almost seemed to easy, but Captain Jack Sparrow had been waiting just as Etta had speculated. Soon enough, Etta would be on the right course to fulfill her mission and Dracula's position as a First Mate would be solidified indefinitely. 

"Count Dracula," Smitty greeted the Count in a pleased manner, "Looks like you brought back some fresh meat to put to work! The Captain will be satisfied with your work," Smitty exclaimed, rubbing his hands together. 

"All in an eve's work," Dracula nodded his head in Smitty's direction. Smitty's words did not carry much value but any account of approval aboard this ship amongst Etta's crew was welcomed.

"Excuse me, Count Dracula?" Smitty's complexion grew slightly perplexed as he pointed at the corner of his mouth, "You, uh, have something...,"

Dracula's heart leaped within his chest with fright as the dried remnant of blood he had forgotten to wipe away still remained, "Oh!" Dracula's reflexes acted swiftly, his fingers quickly working to wipe the red stain away from his mouth, "Forgive me, Smitty. The red wine was so delicious, I simply couldn't help myself." Dracula chuckled, keeping his composure but also knowing that he had to be more careful. Clearing his throat, he addressed Smitty once more, "The Captain is still in the quarters from whence I left upon heading into Tortuga, I presume?" Draucla questioned and Smitty followed with a rapid head nod. Dracula wasted no more time, heading down to the Captain's quarters at a rapid pace to tell her the good news of his encounter with the pirate they had been looking for. Approaching Etta's door, Dracula knocked and waited for his invitation to enter.

[Hollywood Heidi]

Etta padded barefoot back and forth in her cabin, the pleasant breeze, always warm in the Caribbean no matter the time of day, flowing in through the partially open window and lightly ruffling her hair. She'd attempted to get a few hours of sleep in before Dracula would return with his report, but with the worries of the important upcoming task that would complete her deal with the Dark One and the man who was pivotal in making the task happen on her mind, Etta's mind would not quiet.

What if the bait of Sparrow's old ship was deterred by the fact that it was currently being captained by the dreaded Captain Henry? Dracula had a special way with reaching peoples' minds and persuading them to his way, but fear was a powerful emotion that could sometimes overpower the mind. If worse came to worse, they could always snatch him up against his will, but an unwilling participant was an uncooperative one which would make an already dangerous task even more so. Worse, what if Sparrow wasn't even here on Tortuga? It could take a long time to track someone down in this vast world, especially if they did not want to be found.


A sudden knock at her door pulled her from her thoughts. Etta retrieved the long red satin robe that matched her chemise and pulled it on to modestly cover the small, comfortable sleeping garment that was hardly appropriate for company before granting entrance.

"Enter," she called as she tied the robe into place, eyes on the door in the hopes that it would be Dracula with some news that would finally settle her mind.

[Ariel]

"Enter,"

Dracula heard the cue that he had been waiting for through the door, and opened it. He found Etta draped securely in a red satin robe, her gaze looking rather anxious to hear his news.

"Captain," Dracula greeted her with a slight bow of his head before straightening upright to address her again, "I do apologize that I am intruding upon you at this late hour," He commented apologetically. He knew it was late, though he had the feeling that she hadn't been able to rest a wink. Dracula knew just how crucial this mission was, so the fact that she had been avidly waiting for his return was no surprise. Though, he did not want to intrude on a women in her robes without any sort of respect.

"I am pleased to report that this evening went very well," Dracula confirmed, keeping a respectful distance, "Not only have we secured some new meat - forgive me, crewmates to board and start work immediately. I have successfully located Captain Jack Sparrow. He accepted the proposal to meet with you aboard at the strike of midnight with the compass in hand," Dracula confirmed, very pleased in himself of the good news he was able to bring to Etta, "Though, you did neglect to inform me how dashing this gentleman is. I feel that he may try to use his looks and wit to bargain for less than what this mission is worth. I do not underestimate you in any sort of way, as you are an incredible force to be reckoned with. However, If I may propose that I may standby in your conversions with him in case any sort of intervention may be needed," Dracula informed Etta, expressing the guard that he felt was necessary to have up with Sparrow. He knew the likes of men like him, he was one of the same kind himself. Though, Dracula did not want to see their efforts fail or settle for less in any sort of way, not if he could help it.

[Hollywood Heidi]

"Captain," "I do apologize that I am intruding upon you at this late hour,"

She inclined her head in answer to his bow. She didn't expect such formality from him, but knew it was simply an ingrained part of his impeccable manners. She easily waved away his apology. "The intrusion is most welcome," she reassured. Clearly, she hadn't been able to find rest and it was obvious why. "What have you?" She watched him expectantly, hoping for good news.


"I am pleased to report that this evening went very well," "Not only have we secured some new meat - forgive me, crewmates to board and start work immediately. I have successfully located Captain Jack Sparrow. He accepted the proposal to meet with you aboard at the strike of midnight with the compass in hand,"

Etta relaxed at the news. She did catch his slip-up, but knew he was very careful with his words around the crew. With her, he could be relaxed and himself, though he did still try to save her from having to think on what she helped to lead her men to in the dark of night.

"Thank goodness," she said, starting a slow pace again as her mind started to form the next steps of the plan.


"Though, you did neglect to inform me how dashing this gentleman is. I feel that he may try to use his looks and wit to bargain for less than what this mission is worth. I do not underestimate you in any sort of way, as you are an incredible force to be reckoned with. However, If I may propose that I may standby in your conversions with him in case any sort of intervention may be needed,"

That stopped Etta's pacing and gained her attention once again. She listened with raised eyebrows and an amused smile. "Dashing, you say?" she asked, tapping her chin in feigned interest and acting like most of the small-minded women she'd grown up around who were preoccupied with such things. Chuckling as she moved to stand at a more conversational distance in font of him, she said more seriously, "I did hear that he was quite the womanizer, but I do not lose my wits in the presence of a handsome face," she reassured. "How would I manage working alongside you, if that were the case?" she said in a complimentary tease as she reached up to gently pat the cheek of his handsome face.

Etta crossed her arms and geared back toward serious. She could handle herself, especially around men whose weapon of choice was flirtation, and she knew that Dracula knew that. He was simply being protective and she appreciated that. "We shall have to get a feel for the kind of person he is," she said, neither accepting or refusing his suggestion. "We need his full cooperation. If he is the cautious or paranoid type, he may feel ganged up on or outnumbered. Worst case scenario, you can wait right outside the door."

With his incredible sense of hearing and inhuman speed, it would practically be as if he was in the room anyway.

[Ariel]

"I did hear that he was quite the womanizer, but I do not lose my wits in the presence of a handsome face," "How would I manage working alongside you, if that were the case?"

Dracula chuckled inwardly, "My Captain, your strength and wit never cease to amaze me," He grinned down at Etta, his hand giving hers that rested upon his cheek a friendly, warm greeting as he placed it over top of hers momentarily before they released to drop back into being the professionals they were. Revisiting the issue at had with Jack Sparrow, Dracula knew that Etta could handle herself when it came to those who use tools against others for deceptive purposes. Feeling as if she had more to say, Dracula took a step back in waiting for further input.


"We shall have to get a feel for the kind of person he is,"  "We need his full cooperation. If he is the cautious or paranoid type, he may feel ganged up on or outnumbered. Worst case scenario, you can wait right outside the door."

"Very well," Nodding in agreement, Dracula understood the assignment and the role she wanted him to play. At the end of the day, it wasn't up to him but to his boss. He had to respect her wishes, even if they go against the plan he had in mind. Being placed outside of the door was not his particular preference, yet he did not forget that he could hear as small as a whisper from a mouse as crystal clear whether he was in the same room or in the next one over. Regardless, he would remain close by in case Etta needed backup, "I trust you and your sense of judgement, and I will do just as you wish." Dracula promised Etta, hoping he could remain on his best behavior. For her.

[Hollywood Heidi]

She gave a single nod of appreciation, glancing over at the small clock nailed down to a side table, noting that it was less than an hour away until midnight. They'd be shipping off around that time, depending on the timeliness of Sparrow.

It was her usual to give a speech before shipping off, giving the new arrivals a last chance to change their minds and leave the ship, but she did want Sparrow having any chances of leaving. "I won't be giving the speech tonight," she said, knowing Dracula would know why without an explanation. He'd gotten fairly good at knowing how her mind worked and working out the logic of her decisions, even if he didn't always agree. "As soon as Sparrow's boots hit the deck, I'd like us to ship off. I'll introduce myself to the crew in the morning. We'll be in the open sea, far from any other ports or ships."

Etta paused, raising a hand to stifle a yawn. She was relieved to realize that her mind was finally settled enough and she was starting to feel the exhaustion catching up with her. "Thank you, Drac. I think I can finally find some sleep now. Can you take it from here?"

[Ariel]

"I won't be giving the speech tonight,"  "As soon as Sparrow's boots hit the deck, I'd like us to ship off. I'll introduce myself to the crew in the morning. We'll be in the open sea, far from any other ports or ships."

Dracula nodded in agreement. Etta knew exactly what she was doing, and Dracula had full confidence in his Captain. There couldn't be any chance for escape or trickery for Jack Sparrow. Dracula took her word and would help her ensure that this mission she had put so much thought and effort into would be completed with as much ease as he could provide, "I'll communicate with Smitty and once the pirate hits the deck, we will take off. You have my word," Dracula assured Etta that she could trust in him to execute the plan accordingly.

"Thank you, Drac. I think I can finally find some sleep now. Can you take it from here?"

"Anything for you," Dracula confirmed with affirmation, "Gather your strength, and I will inform you when it's time." Dracula nodded to bit adieu for the time being before turning around and making his exit. It would be a long hour of waiting, but soon Sparrow would arrive and Etta would be closer to victory. He made his way to the upper deck where he could discreetly speak with Smitty upon the Captain's orders.

*** Dracula exits ***

[Hollywood Heidi]

---

---

An hour passes. 

It is now shortly after midnight.

---

---

[Ariel]

Dracula's pocket watch ticked away in his hand as he peered downwards. It was only seconds until midnight, and soon Jack Sparrow would finally be aboard the ship. Looking up from his watch, Dracula tucked it neatly into the pocket of his trousers and peered over to Smitty. Making eye contact, Smitty nodded in Dracula's direction as confirmation that the time was drawing near and that he understood his assignment. Board Sparrow, and then set sail as soon as possible. Walking along the wooden planks, Dracula inched closer to the entryway of the ship, peering down at the harbor for any sign of Captain Jack Sparrow's arrival.