Freeing Mr. Jones

Dressed finer then a Grand Duchess, instead of her usual pirate gear; Marina made her way down the dark, dank corridor of prison cells. The smell of unwashed bodies and disease over whelmed her, as she took in the pitiful site of slaves locked in their flea-infested cages.

She spotted him immediately. His son's description was spot on, except of the addition of several days growth of a beard.

"How much for him?" she asked.

"That big lout there? Not for sale Miss. Due to hang in the morn."

"I wish to see him."

"Don't see why when you can't buy him?" the guard said annoyed. He worked by sale and did not want his time wasted.

Marina grabbed a jewel from her purse, and slipped it into the guard's hand. "I must say I don't particularly care for your answer. May I have another?"

The guard snorted and pocketed the gem. "Sure, why not? Look, but do not touch," he said leading her over to the man.

Jabbing him in the ribs with his club he said, "Jones you got a visitor." And then walked away to attend another patron, one who hopefully would make a real purchase.

Jones could not imagine what this beauty would want of him.

"Good day, Mr. Jones. May I ask have you any skill with ships?"

"Much, mam. I worked at the docks until I was let go without wages."

"Do you have any family, Mr. Jones?"

The man's eyes filled with tears at the thought of his only son. He was foolish to try and steal food for them but felt without it they would surely starve. Now caught, he had no idea what would happen to his boy.

"A son," he managed to choke out.

"I see. Are you aware of the cove just west of here?"

"Yes, mam."

"Well it has been a pleasure, Mr. Jones?" And she extended her hand through the bars.

Jones looked at it confused. 

"It's customary Mr. Jones that when a woman of my status offers you her hand to bestow upon it a kiss."

Jones took her palm in his and his eyes lit up in wonder as he now found himself in possession of a key and a dagger.

He pressed his lips upon her hand and she smiled.

"If you wish to see your son again, use what I have given you and meet me at the cove after dark. We will be waiting. Don't disappoint us."

Pocketing the items Jones said, "You must be my Guardian Angel."

Marina just laughed, "I assure you Mr. Jones I have been accused of many things but an angel has never been among them."