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SKELETON
ISLAND - Was a pirate secret location, known only to a small number of
captains by that name. But as piracy became unfashionable with mass hangings, the numbers
of those in the know, dwindled. Until, all that remained was a location
carved in wood. Generally hidden somewhere safe by the pirate concerned.
This location was useless without a chart giving the exact position that
each pirate buried their stash. The maps made on parchment, were handed down
to the next generations, by way of inheritance free of taxes.
<<<
CHAPTER 17
It
bothered John that he had been on Providence Island, seen the Golden Aztec
Skull, and found other clues missing from the puzzle, but still did not understand the
wooden carving he'd found with the remains of the famous privateer; Henry
Morgan, although at least the wooden marker had helped to identify the
Colombian Archipelago, from where Huntington had found the cave where
Blackbeard had stashed his hoard.
Lord
Huntington and Captain Tremaine still had much of the
limited quantity of cave gold onboard the
Hispaniola, since the mutineers had not had time or resources to shift it,
but they did not have the golden Aztec Skull. They decided to leave
re-acquisition of the priceless artifact to the Colombian Navy, since it was
in their domain, along with Peru, and had bid John, Cleopatra and Dan
farewell, as they headed out into the sparkling turquoise-blue Caribbean,
back to England, to report on their adventures to their Geographical
Society.
Not
so content, John puzzled over the missing loot, attributed to Henry
Morgan.
Two pirates at different times, apparently at the same geographical
location. Blackbeard, more or less accounted
for up to his untimely demise.
The enigma of the wooden carving, unearthed from the long-silent tomb of Henry Morgan, continued to occupy the forefront of John’s thoughts. He had stood on the shores of Providence Island, his gaze drawn to the cold gleam of the golden Aztec skull, the pieces of a historical puzzle scattered before him. Yet, the intricate symbols etched into the wood remained stubbornly resistant to his understanding. At least the artifact had served its initial purpose, guiding them to the Colombian Archipelago, the very waters from which Huntington had extracted the secrets of Blackbeard’s hidden cache.
Lord Huntington and Captain Tremaine, now sailing with a lighter, and considerably less volatile, crew, carried the bulk of the cave’s gold reserves aboard the Hispaniola. The fleeting mutiny had spared the treasure, the pirates’ ambitions outstripping their logistical capabilities. The golden Aztec Skull, however, remained a silent sentinel in Colombian territory, its recovery deemed a matter for the local authorities, with Peru’s historical claims also duly noted. With sincere farewells, the Hispaniola had charted a course back towards England, its passengers eager to recount their adventures to the learned members of the Geographical Society, leaving John, Cleopatra, and Dan to navigate the lingering mysteries of the Caribbean.
A sense of unease settled upon John, a persistent whisper of the unknown. The missing riches, the legendary haul attributed to Henry Morgan, refused to fade into the background. Two notorious pirates, separated by the relentless march of time, yet their paths seemingly converging upon the same stretch of ocean. Blackbeard, his brutal saga cut short, his secrets swallowed by the grave. But Morgan… his story felt incomplete, a final, crucial chapter lost to the currents of history.
I. Setting the Stage (aboard the Elizabeth Swann)
The hum of advanced technology filled the main operations room of the Elizabeth Swann, a stark contrast to the centuries-old mystery they were on the cusp of unraveling.
John Storm stood alongside
Dan
Hawk, their gazes fixed on the holographic projection emanating from Hal, the Swann’s onboard AI computer. The atmosphere, while thick with anticipation, was underscored by a palpable tension. The successful deciphering of the code etched into the wooden carving recovered from Blackbeard’s coffin, a feat accomplished with the considerable processing power of the
Cybercore Genetica supercomputer, had led them to this precise moment. The coordinates, now shimmering in blue light on Hal’s display, confirmed the location derived from the intricate puzzle.
Dan Hawk, a seasoned adventurer in his own right, leaned forward, his expression a mixture of exhilaration and apprehension.
“So, this is it,” he murmured, his voice barely audible above the gentle
purr of the Swann’s thrusters. “Right under the noses of the Royal Navy and the
Spanish
Armada.”
He gestured towards the sensor readings flickering on a nearby monitor, a testament to the intense naval presence in the area. The Elizabeth Swann, however, was currently enveloped in a cloak of advanced stealth technology, rendering it virtually invisible to conventional detection methods. This technological advantage was crucial, given the historical context of the early 18th century, a period marked by significant geopolitical tensions between England and
Spain. The research indicates that
privateering played a substantial role in the military strategies of both nations during this era, often blurring the lines between state-sanctioned raiding and outright piracy. The presence of both navies in this region underscores the strategic importance of these waters and the potential for conflict over any significant discovery.
John nodded, his eyes never leaving the coordinates.
“Precisely. But our priority remains the heritage value of this find. We document, we assess, and then we negotiate.”
He reiterated the plan they had meticulously discussed: a solo dive for initial reconnaissance and thorough documentation. His instructions to Dan and Hal were clear: maintain stealth and be ready for any eventuality, but under no circumstances were they to approach the wreck until he had completed his initial assessment. John’s cautious approach stemmed from a deep respect for the historical significance of such a discovery and a keen awareness of the legal complexities surrounding maritime salvage and cultural heritage.
II. The Descent into the Deep
Equipped with state-of-the-art diving gear that belied the age of his quarry, John entered the water through a concealed hatch on the Swann’s underside. The initial descent was through a dim world, sunlight rapidly fading as he plunged deeper. The pressure mounted steadily, a familiar sensation to the experienced diver. The water was initially murky, filled with suspended particles, but gradually, as he approached the seabed, visibility improved. Based on the clues deciphered from the map and the wooden carvings, John had initially anticipated finding the
treasure within a submerged cave, a hidden grotto that had served as a pirate’s secret vault.
However, as he reached the coordinates indicated by Hal, a large, dark shape began to materialize in the gloom. It was far larger than any cave entrance. The shape grew steadily more defined, resolving itself into the unmistakable silhouette of a shipwreck. The sheer scale of the discovery took John by surprise.
III. Discovery of the Sunken Privateer
The vessel resting on the seabed was clearly a ship of significant size, likely a privateer given the historical context and the nature of the treasure they sought. Privateers of the 17th and 18th centuries often comprised refitted merchant ships or even older warships, armed and commissioned by national powers to raid enemy commerce. This particular vessel, though bearing the marks of its long submersion – a delicate lacework of coral growth, a dusting of marine sediment – remained remarkably intact. Its cannons, still mounted along the gunwales, hinted at its former purpose. Broken hatches and open sections revealed tantalizing glimpses of its cargo hold. Even through the gloom, John could discern the unmistakable glint of gold, the dull sheen of silver, and the occasional vibrant sparkle that could only be gemstones. Historical records confirm that privateers frequently targeted
Spanish treasure fleets, laden with precious metals and jewels from the Americas. The potential value of the cargo was immense, but John’s focus remained on the historical significance of the wreck itself.
Adding an unexpected layer of complexity and danger to the scene was a large, discarded fishing net, a spectral web draped across the sunken ship. This
“ghost
net,” swirling eerily in the current like a macabre shroud, was a stark reminder of the enduring problem of marine plastic pollution. Research indicates that these abandoned nets, often made of durable nylon or other plastics, can persist in the marine environment for centuries, posing a significant threat to marine life through entanglement and ingestion. For John, the net presented a more immediate hazard. Its tangled strands, clinging to the wreck and swaying unpredictably in the underwater currents, made navigating the site considerably more dangerous. The risk of becoming entangled himself was significant.
IV. Careful Documentation and Assessment
John activated his high-definition underwater camera, its powerful lights cutting through the gloom. He began a meticulous process of filming the entire shipwreck, systematically documenting its condition, the visible cargo, and its entanglement with the ghost net. Every detail was captured: the ship’s lines, the state of its hull, the encrustations of marine life, and the glimpses of treasure within. Conscious of the need to preserve the integrity of the site, John was careful not to touch or disturb anything. His every movement was deliberate, avoiding any contact with the fragile remains of the past.
As he filmed, John narrated his observations into his comms system, the audio being recorded directly onto the video footage. He described the ship's overall condition, the types and approximate quantities of the visible
gold, silver, and
gemstones, and the extent to which the ghost net had ensnared the wreck. This detailed recording served as both archive evidence of his discovery and a comprehensive video schedule of the ship’s contents, a crucial step in any future discussions regarding salvage and heritage status.
V. A Close Call with Ocean Plastic
As John carefully approached the wreck to begin his documentation, a section of the ghost net, almost invisible against the dark timbers of the privateer, snagged his leg. He tried to pull free, but the net, caught on a piece of the ship’s rigging, tightened around his dive gear. Panic flared momentarily as he realized the strength of the discarded netting. Images flashed through his mind: turtles struggling in similar traps, the lifeless eyes of sharks ensnared in drifting lines , the immense form of a whale, like
the pregnant Kulo-Luna
he'd cut free of netting in the Pacific,
and later, the baby humpback he’d rescued off the Australian coast, hopelessly tangled and drowned. The memory of that young whale, its desperate cries echoing in his ears, fueled a surge of anger within him. This silent, insidious menace of
ocean plastic was not just an environmental disaster; it was a direct threat to life, including his own. Divers also face dangers from these submerged nets.
With a surge of adrenaline, John fumbled for the dive knife strapped to his leg. The cold steel felt reassuring in his grip. Working quickly but cautiously, mindful of the limited air in his cylinders, he began to saw at the thick
nylon strands. The net was surprisingly resilient, but with persistent effort, he finally cut himself free. He watched the severed section drift away, a ghostly reminder of his near-miss. The incident had cost him precious time and
air, and his earlier apprehension had now morphed into a burning resolve.
VI. Heritage Value and Legal Considerations
As John surveyed the scene, the historical significance of his discovery weighed heavily on his mind. A well-preserved privateer shipwreck from the 17th or 18th century represented a potential treasure trove of information about naval warfare, maritime trade, and the daily lives of seafarers during that pivotal era. His thoughts turned to Blue Shield International, an organization dedicated to the protection of cultural heritage during conflicts and disasters, including underwater sites. Given his existing connections within Blue Shield, John knew he had a crucial ally in ensuring the proper handling and preservation of this remarkable find.
His primary intention was to negotiate a legally binding agreement regarding the salvage of the treasure, one that prioritized the archaeological integrity of the shipwreck. He was acutely aware of the potential legal pitfalls associated with maritime salvage, particularly concerning historically significant wrecks. Traditional admiralty law, involving the law of salvage and the law of finds, often prioritizes monetary value over historical significance. John was determined to avoid any accusations of theft or unauthorized removal of artifacts. His aim was to work within the legal framework, potentially seeking the shipwreck’s listing as a UNESCO
World Heritage
Site.
To be considered for UNESCO World Heritage status, a site must possess outstanding universal value and meet at least one of ten criteria.
A shipwreck like this, bearing unique testimony to a significant period in maritime history and potentially representing an outstanding example of ship design and technology from that era, could certainly be a strong candidate.
The following table outlines the UNESCO criteria and their potential relevance to this
discovery.
Crucially, John understood that he was under no legal obligation to reveal the exact location of the wreck at this stage. This knowledge was a vital safeguard against what he suspected would be the next move from both
Spain and
England.
VII. Concerns about Spain and England
John harbored a strong suspicion that once news of his discovery reached the ears of the Spanish and English authorities – a near certainty given the naval blockade – their immediate reaction would be to attempt to discredit him and seize the location of the treasure by any means necessary. The historical context of intense rivalry between these two European powers in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, often fueled by competition for colonial wealth and maritime dominance, provided ample justification for this concern. The research indicates that the period was marked by frequent conflicts, including the War of Jenkins' Ear, which stemmed from trade disputes and geopolitical ambitions. In such an environment, a discovery of this magnitude, laden with potential wealth and historical significance, would undoubtedly become a focal point of international interest and potential contention.
John knew that prematurely revealing the precise coordinates of the shipwreck would almost certainly lead to attempts by both nations to claim the treasure for themselves, potentially disregarding its heritage value in the process. Discrediting him would be a strategic move to undermine his claims and justifications for controlling the site. Therefore, maintaining the secrecy of the location was paramount to ensuring his ability to negotiate a legally sound agreement and to advocate for the shipwreck’s potential designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
VIII. A Vow to Fight the Plastic Tide
The near-death experience with the ghost net had ignited a fierce determination within John. As an ardent ocean conservationist, he had witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of marine debris. This personal encounter, so close to becoming another victim of discarded fishing gear, solidified his resolve to intensify his efforts against this global menace. Upon returning to the Elizabeth Swann, his first call would be to his contacts at UNESCO, not only to discuss the historical significance of the shipwreck but also to highlight the urgent need for stronger international regulations and cleanup initiatives regarding ghost nets. He would also be reporting the incident to
Dr. Roberta
Treadstone, a leading expert in marine conservation, to collaborate on strategies for eradicating marine litter and protecting vulnerable marine ecosystems. The discovery of Blackbeard's Curse and the pirates' gold had taken an unexpected turn, adding a powerful new dimension to John Storm's ongoing battle to safeguard the world's oceans.
IX. Ascending with Evidence and Intent
Having completed his thorough documentation of the sunken privateer and its precious cargo, John secured his camera and began his ascent back to the
Elizabeth
Swann. The ghostly silhouette of the treasure ship, still entangled in the spectral embrace of the discarded fishing net, faded into the increasing light above. His mind was now firmly set on the next phase of his endeavor. Contacting his connections at
Blue Shield International would be the immediate priority, initiating discussions about the historical significance of the wreck and the best course of action for its preservation. Simultaneously, he would begin exploring the legal avenues for securing salvage rights while ensuring the site’s protection. And above all, he would safeguard the location of this remarkable discovery, a secret he held close as he returned to the sanctuary of the Elizabeth Swann.
UNDERWATER WRECK SITE AT NIGHT
The abyss pressed in on all sides, an inky void punctuated only by the focused beam of John Storm’s dive light, a solitary spear of illumination against the ancient shadows. His high-tech dive suit, a marvel of silent engineering, possessed a subtle luminescence, a ghostly shimmer against the timeless darkness. Below him, a sprawling silhouette began to resolve itself – the skeletal remains of a privateer ship, lying in silent testament to a bygone era. Its decks, once alive with the clamor of buccaneers, were now encrusted with a thick layer of barnacles and coral, a vibrant yet morbid tapestry of marine life. The once-proud hull was draped with the tattered remnants of a discarded fishing net, a swirling, ethereal shroud that moved with the unseen currents, a ghostly specter of modern neglect clinging to the bones of history.
(JOHN’S INNER VOICE, a soft, reverent murmur) Each relic of this sunken vessel is a page torn from the book of time – a story entrusted to the silent depths. I am here not as a plunderer, driven by the glint of gold, but as a guardian, tasked with safeguarding the legacy of those long departed souls.
A sharp, metallic click resonated within the confines of his helmet as he toggled his comm channel, the reassuring, measured voices of his team cutting through the oppressive silence of the deep.
(DAN HAWK’S VOICE, crackling through his earpiece) John, remember HAL’s readings on that net. Unstable grid. Tread carefully; the last thing we need is a cascade, a collapse of the cargo hold.
(HAL’S SYNTHESIZED VOICE, analytical and calm, a disembodied presence in the darkness) Analysis confirms that any abrupt movement increases the entanglement risk by thirty-two percent. Maintain a steady course, Commander Storm. Every subtle shift in the current has the potential to compromise not only our data acquisition but also the structural integrity of this significant cultural artifact.
As John drifted closer to the encrusted timbers, his mind’s eye conjured images of countless hours spent hunched over the wooden carving, the enigmatic code unearthed from Blackbeard’s final resting place, its meaning subtly amplified by the fragmented clues discovered amongst Henry Morgan’s earthly remains. His conviction, a quiet certainty, now felt as tangible as the cold, salty water pressing against his suit.
(JOHN’S INNER VOICE) That carved message… it was more than just a crude map leading to buried treasure. It was a testament, a coded whisper across the centuries, a call to protect what once bravely sailed the high seas. I owe it to history, to every life that has been inextricably bound to the fate of these unforgiving waters.
With deliberate slowness, his gloved hand raised the underwater recording device, its lens whirring softly as it captured the scene unfolding before him. Piles of aged gold coinage, their surfaces dulled by centuries of immersion, lay scattered amongst the shimmering threads of silver filigree. Clusters of gemstones, their facets catching the narrow beam of his light, glittered like scattered stars on a midnight canvas. The ghost net, draped almost reverentially across the decaying hull, swayed gently in the unseen currents, a spectral marketplace of the deep – a haunting reminder of both nature’s patient power of reclamation and humanity’s often-careless discard.
(JOHN, into comm, his voice steady and low) I’m capturing every detail. This digital archive will serve as our comprehensive video schedule of contents – irrefutable evidence of heritage, not plunder. The data is being streamed directly to Blue Shield; it’s our primary safeguard against those who would seek to exploit this site, wielding legal precedent as their weapon.
A subtle tremor ran through the draped net, a visceral reminder of the capricious nature of the deep. John paused, hovering motionless in the water column, as fragments of plastic, the ubiquitous detritus of a world that once marveled at the ocean’s pristine beauty and now marred its purity with abandon, drifted silently past him like ghostly snowflakes.
Hal's synthesized voice broke the silence. "Alert: currents fluctuating. Adjust trajectory by five degrees starboard, Commander Storm. Minimize all contact with the net’s perimeter."
With painstaking care, John maneuvered around an especially entangled section of the wreck, his underwater ballet unfolding with a medicated precision born of years of experience. His face, though hidden behind the reflective visor of his helmet, reflected the profound gravity of his responsibility – not only to the echoes of the past but to the future preservation of this irreplaceable site. Above the churning surface, the Elizabeth Swann, operating in stealth mode, remained a silent sentinel, a floating guardian amidst the looming shadows of the Royal Navy and Spanish Armada blockades, a silent promise of protection against those who sought to claim what was not theirs.
"Remember, John: this isn’t a salvage operation." Said Dan.
"Our ultimate goal is a legally binding agreement for UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. In achieving that, we erect an impenetrable shield around this vital piece of history, safeguarding it from the greedy machinations of power-hungry empires."
John’s gloved hand tightened its grip on the recording device as he captured a sweeping panorama of the wreck and its precious cargo, a silent testament to a lost world. His tone, when he finally broke the silence, was imbued with resolute determination.
John was adamant. "I will not be forced to yield the secrets held within these depths. They belong to history – and to all of humanity. Let those who seek to exploit them understand this: every frame of this recording, every data point collected, stands as irrefutable proof that this legacy will be preserved, not pillaged for personal gain."
An unseen current surged unexpectedly, tugging sharply at John’s tether, a sudden reminder of the ocean’s untamed power. With a sharp intake of breath, he regained his balance, his movements a precise blend of ingrained instinct and learned control. In that fleeting heartbeat of peril, his light caught one final, breathtaking glint of the buried treasure before he slowly began his ascent, leaving the silent city of the deep undisturbed.
UNDERWATER WRECK SITE AT NIGHT
John Storm drifted near the encrusted remains of the wreck, the powerful beam of his dive light methodically tracing every detail, illuminating the silent stories etched into the corroded metal and encrusted wood. Suddenly, an unexpected chill enveloped him – the distinct sensation of a freak
thermocline, a sudden shift in water temperature that sent a shiver even through the layers of his advanced dive suit. Far in the distance, a flimsy nylon net, a ghostly web adrift in the darkness, was caught by an unseen current and redirected, its ethereal form drifting like a phantom in the abyss.
(JOHN’S INNER VOICE, a prickle of unease) I thought I had navigated clear of that… but sometimes, the sea has a will all its own.
Before he could react, before his mind could fully register the shifting currents, the drifting net, propelled by the unseen force of the deep, wafted silently into his path. With terrifying, almost sentient speed, the fine nylon strands coiled around him, a cold, suffocating embrace. John’s limbs twisted awkwardly as the synthetic threads tightened, a horrifyingly familiar sensation that triggered a cascade of unwanted memories – countless underwater photographs, stark and heartbreaking, of turtles, whales, and even sharks ensnared in similar, inescapable traps, their silent struggles ending in a watery grave. His pulse hammered against his ribs, a cold tendril of panic beginning to snake its way through his carefully controlled composure.
Through the crackling static of his intercom, his dive suit sprang to life with urgent distress signals, the electronic pulses mirroring the frantic beat of his own heart.
(JOHN, into comm, his voice strained and tight with rising alarm) I’m caught – entangled in a net! It’s tightening… I can barely move!
BRIDGE OF THE ELIZABETH SWANN
Dan Hawk’s eyes widened in stark alarm as the frantic signal blared across his monitor, the graphical representation of John’s distress painting a terrifying picture. On a separate channel, HAL’s cool, calm digital voice, a stark contrast to the rising panic, cut through the tense atmosphere of the bridge.
(DAN HAWK’S VOICE, crackling with urgent concern but carefully controlled) John, steady now. Remember when you and Shui Razor freed Kuna near Fraser Island? You handled that with precision – focus and deliberate cuts. I’m suiting up for a rescue.
(HAL’S SYNTHESIZED VOICE, analytical and devoid of emotion) Commander Storm, listen carefully. Check your cylinder pressure – your oxygen levels are critically depleting. Do you have visual confirmation of your pressure gauge? Assess your immediate status and locate the compact cutting tool within your utility kit.
Back in the crushing darkness of the deep, John’s gloved hands fumbled frantically around his utility pouch, his movements clumsy and hampered by the ever-tightening net. Finally, his fingers closed around the cool, reassuring grip of his compact cutter. The net’s nylon strands constricted further with each passing second, each tightening loop a visceral counterpoint to the poignant memory of the baby humpback whale, Kuna, whose precarious rescue had etched itself into his memory, a constant reminder of the sea’s fragile and often brutal balance.
(JOHN, breathing heavily, his voice strained with a desperate determination) I… I remember Kuna… Shui Razor’s calm precision. I’ve got one arm partially free now – I’ll start cutting at the outermost edge of the net.
With agonizingly slow, deliberate movements, John began to saw at the encasing strands, the sharp blade of his cutter biting into the tough nylon with a small, hard-won victory against the panicked pull of the unseen currents and the relentless tightening of his synthetic prison.
(DAN HAWK’S VOICE, laced with encouragement) That’s it, John. Use slow, deliberate cuts. One slice at a time – just like you did with Kuna. Stay focused entirely on freeing yourself. I’m right beside you, mentally preparing to breach the water and haul you in if necessary.
(HAL’S SYNTHESIZED VOICE, a reassuring presence in the darkness) I am alerting the Mexican Navy support team – they are currently on standby, awaiting our signal. Commander Storm, minimize all sudden movements; maintain your current spatial orientation relative to the wreck. Your oxygen gauge indicates critically low levels – approximately thirty-five percent remaining. Every single second is now of paramount importance.
John’s vision flickered at the edges, the insidious tendrils of nitrogen narcosis beginning to cloud his thoughts, a cruel irony in his desperate struggle for air. His gaze darted between the suffocating embrace of the net and the rapidly fading numbers on his diving cylinder. Tears of salt water mixed with a fierce, unwavering determination as the heart-wrenching images of countless marine creatures lost to these silent killers flashed through his mind, fueling his desperate fight for survival.
(JOHN, into comm, his voice wavering yet imbued with a resolute core) I’m cutting through the strands – focusing on slow, steady, precise movements. I won’t let this become another senseless tragedy… not for me, and certainly not for all those we have fought so hard to save from similar fates.
The net’s suffocating grip loosened incrementally as John worked with a methodical precision born of years of facing peril in the unforgiving depths. Each controlled slice of the cutter against the taut nylon echoed the coordinated rescue of Kuna, a testament to his own resilience and the unwavering support of his dedicated crew.
(DAN HAWK’S VOICE, his tone filled with a growing sense of relief) Keep going, John. I can see some slack in the net now on the monitor. Hold on just a little bit longer. I’m fully prepared to breach the surface and haul you in the moment you’re free.
(HAL’S SYNTHESIZED VOICE) Excellent progress, Commander Storm. Once you have achieved complete disentanglement, signal immediately. Your subsequent steps will be critical, and we must ensure your swift return to the Elizabeth Swann without causing any further disturbance to the integrity of the wreck site.
With one final, determined slice, the last constricting strands snapped, releasing John from the net’s deadly embrace. His arms and legs, momentarily numb from the pressure, were finally liberated, though the insistent, high-pitched beeping of his diving cylinder’s gauge served as a stark reminder of his rapidly dwindling oxygen supply. He floated for a moment, gasping for regulated breaths, his heart slowly beginning to steady its frantic rhythm – a precarious blend of profound relief and lingering, chilling worry.
(JOHN, into comm, his voice still ragged but regaining a measure of control) I’m free. Extraction required immediately – oxygen levels are critically low. I’m holding on… just barely.
In the dimly lit control room above, Dan Hawk tightened the straps of his own dive gear, his face a mask of grim determination, preparing for an immediate underwater rescue, while HAL finalized the urgent call to the Mexican Navy support team, their arrival now a crucial factor in John’s survival.
(DAN HAWK’S VOICE, his tone firm and reassuring) Understood, John. Stay with me. We’re almost there. Just hold on.
(HAL’S SYNTHESIZED VOICE) Mexican Navy backup is en route, Commander Storm. Maintain your current position. I am continuously monitoring every minute drop on your pressure gauge. We will have you extracted to safety in minimal time.
John steadied himself amidst the muted, ethereal blue of the underwater world, the terrifying incident – a stark collision of nature’s unpredictable power and humanity’s enduring spirit – serving as a brutal yet poignant reminder of the delicate balance he was sworn to uphold. With the unwavering support of his loyal crew guiding him through the darkness, the silent legacy of the deep and the precious cargo of history remained, for now, in safe hands.
PIRATE SHIP ETHEREAL DECK NIGHTTIME
A ghostly, moonlit deck materialized aboard a spectral vessel, adrift in the liminal space between the realms of the living and the dead. The sea beyond shimmered with an uncanny, phosphorescent light, casting long, dancing shadows that seemed to writhe with the secrets of the deep. Two translucent figures – the GHOST OF BLACKBEARD (Edward Teach) and the GHOST OF HENRY MORGAN – stood at the spectral helm, their ethereal eyes fixed with an otherworldly intensity on the drama unfolding in the dark waters below.
GHOST OF BLACKBEARD (a deep, gravelly tone that seemed to emanate from the very depths of the ocean floor): “Avast there, ye landlubber! Look ye now—our living mate, John Storm, be tangled in that cursed plastic web! Shiver me spectral timbers, ‘tis a sight fit to chill even a dead pirate’s marrow!”
GHOST OF HENRY MORGAN (a dry, almost sardonic tone, tinged with a spectral hint of admiration and lingering concern): “Aye, Blackbeard, ‘tis a close shave indeed. If the mortal doesn’t cut himself free swift-like afore his earthly breath be entirely snatched away by that silent killer, our ghostly hopes of reclaiming that ill-starred booty be doomed to the crushing depths.”
Below them, through the dark, watery abyss, John’s struggling form was barely visible, a desperate dance against the suffocating embrace of the modern-day leviathan – the discarded fishing net. His every frantic twist and turn echoed the countless maritime tragedies that had claimed mortal souls in these very unforgiving waters.
GHOST OF BLACKBEARD (raising a transparent hand in a mocking, spectral salute towards the struggling figure): “I’ll wager me last phantom doubloon that our daring buccaneer cuts through them tangled threads in the nick o’ time! Else, the treasure I ne’er laid me spectral hands upon in life will remain as lost as Davy Jones’ ghostly locker!”
GHOST OF HENRY MORGAN (a spectral smirk playing across his translucent features): “Yar, Blackbeard, if the mortal be victorious against that silent kraken, then mark my spectral words, our fortunes may yet be reversed. But should he succumb to the watery depths, it be the final reckoning for our ghostly reign o’er these sunken spoils, aye?”
The spectral figures continued their silent vigil, their translucent forms shimmering in the eerie moonlight as they watched the mortal struggle unfold in the crushing darkness below.
GHOST OF BLACKBEARD (a hopeful whisper escaping his spectral lips): “Blow me down! See him go – like the wind through the riggin’ in a raging tempest! That be the heart of a true buccaneer, mortal or ghost! I’ll wager a chest of Spanish doubloons, yet to be plundered in the spectral afterlife, that he be free afore his last earthly breath is exhaled.”
GHOST OF HENRY MORGAN (softly, almost reverently, his spectral gaze unwavering): “A fine wager indeed, Blackbeard. For if his mortal valor prevails against the silent killer of the deep, our cursed treasure, ripped from our grasp so long ago by the whims of fate, shall rise once more from the depths, and our spectral names shall sail again upon the tide of fortune. But if not… then alas, our hopes be dashed like a brig run aground on a storm-lashed reef.”
The camera lingered on the ghostly duo, their translucent forms shuddering with a mixture of spectral anticipation and ethereal dread. Their otherworldly eyes followed every desperate pulse of John’s struggle, a ghostly reflection of battles once fought
>>>
CHAPTER 19
HURRICANE IOTA NOVEMBER 2020
- Providencia (boat dock) and Santa Catalina were ravaged by extreme weather
when heading into 2021.
The small Colombian island of Providencia was hit hard by the powerful Category-5 hurricane Iota,
which caused severe damage to the majority of local’s homes and the already scant public infrastructure.
At that time, Colombia’s President, Ivan Duque, said it is the first Category 5 – the most serious of hurricanes – to hit the Andean nation in its history.
Providencia island had a population of 5,000 people and is part of the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina located in the Caribbean Sea about 775km (481 miles) northwest of mainland Colombia. Geographically, it is closer to the central American country of Nicaragua.
The hurricane was first considered a Category 2 but just before passing Providencia it developed into a Category-5 tropical cyclone which NASA said can have wind speeds of up to 253km/h (157mph) and has the ability to cause catastrophic damage.
Neighbouring larger island San Andres also faced damage to its infrastructure, albeit less intense. Northern Colombian coastal cities, like Cartagena, have flooded and are battling high winds.
According to the United States Office of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2020 has had the highest hurricane activity in the Atlantic since official records began in 1851.
PROLOGUE:
ROYAL
AFRICAN COMPANY - King Charles
II, Royal Charter James Stuart II,
transport goods from Africa: Bloody
Triangle.
SCENE
1. THE
BATTLE OF OCRACOKE - Lt Robert Maynard, Blackbeard's
curse, beheading &
torturous interrogation on the
Adventure
SCENE
2. EARTHQUAKE
JAMAICA - Present Day - An earthquake hits Port Royal,
disturbing the sunken city & Palisadoes cemetery.
SCENE
3. BLUE SHIELD ENGLAND -
Blue
Shield, Newcastle UK, UNESCO
requests Storm catalogue underwater city UNEP
World
Heritage Site.
SCENE
3.1. SWASHBUCKLING
- John tries out Dan's VR sword fencing program, then duel with real pirate
cutlasses, Hal keeping score.
SCENE
4. HENRY
MORGAN'S DEATH - Henry Morgan has a heart attack; funeral ceremony at Palisadoes
cemetery, old Port Royal.
SCENE
5. SUNKEN
CITY SURVEY - Present Day, Swann's sensors scan the ocean bed, revealing mausoleum former Governor of Jamaica.
SCENE
6. JUNE
1692 TSUNAMI - Jamaica, June 7th, an earthquake hits
Port Royal, then a tsunami washes the pirate haven
under the sea.
SCENE
6.1. GHOSTS
BLACKBEARD & MORGAN - Spectral figures cheer on John Storm as
he searches Henry's Palisadoes crypt for clues.
SCENE
7. HENRY
MORGAN'S COFFIN - John Storm & ROV,
comes face to face with Henry's skeletal remains. Finds interesting wooden engraving.
SCENE
8. BBC
JILL BIRD - London. John
Storm's finds lost Henry Morgan's pirate remains. "And for those of you wondering,
there was no treasure."
SCENE 9. OPERATION
HISPANIOLA - British Geographical Society,
& Royal Navy fund Lord Huntington's
expedition to recover relics in the Caribbean.
SCENE
10. SHIP'S
COOK - William Gray helps John Long's cut-throats to crew for
Huntington's Hispaniola, Long a dab
hand on the galley.
SCENE
11. ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOS - Huntington
(BGS
bigwig) asks John Storm for help with
shipwreck survey - meet in the Caribbean, Haiti.
SCENE
12. SKELETON
ISLAND - Intrigued by map proffered by Lord Huntington, John
agrees to switch attention to location, to coast of Panama. .
SCENE
13. SANTA
CATALINA - Colombian,
Mexican,
Panamanian,
Nicaraguan
patrols re: 'Satisfaction'
& hunt for Aztec
gold, Spanish
Conquistadors.
SCENE
14. TREASURE ISLAND -
Hurricane
Iota erased map clues, Isla Providencia.
Longstride believes location of Blackbeard's/Morgan's treasure.
SCENE
15. KIDNAP -
Black Jack
& Billy Bones kidnap
Dan, Cleopatra - lock in Hispaniola with
Tremaine. Hal alerts John to events via BioCore.
SCENE
15.1. THE
GAUNTLET - With Dan and Cleopatra
hostage, John challenges Black Jack to a duel, which Billy Bones ends with a
pistol shot.
SCENE
15.2. MAROONED - Left of the dockside, John is forced to play
along with Longstride, to give Hal time to recover situation safely.
SCENE
16. DOUBLE CROSS - Maynard
pact with Spanish
Navy to blockade Caribbean to capture John & Swann. Longstride deal Aztec
Golden
Skull.
SCENE
17. BLACKBEARD'S CURSE - John retakes Swann, Hal immobilizes Black Jack and Billy
Bones and rescues prisoners on Hispaniola.
SCENE
18. MORGAN'S TREASURE SHIP - John deciphers carving
code helped Dan and Cybercore
Genetica. Dives to find privateer's shipwreck.
SCENE
19. BILLION DOLLAR DEAL - John
negotiates with Panama, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador & Blue
Shield for % salvage based on wreck video.
SCENE
20. BLOCKADE RUNNER - Swann navigates through
Spanish
Armada & Royal Navy
blockade in stealth mode, invisible to radar.
SCENE
21. BERMUDA TRIANGLE - Pirates
head into
Bermuda Triangle, Colombian Navy in pursuit:
BBC Sky News. Never to be seen again.
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