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ON DECK --- AFTERNOON


(Norrington is on deck with various EITC sailors. A few recognizable faces are among those gathered there; Groves, Murtogg and Mullroy. They are staring at the drenched, exhausted form of Anne Sloan.)


Norrington: (looks pained to be dealing with such a situation) Do I even want to know about this?


Murtogg: Probably not sir.


(Mullroy elbows him and quickly speaks up.)

Mullroy: Found her floating in the water, sir. Said she came from The Endeavor.

Norrington: (purses his lips and looks irritated) I see.

(He kneels down beside Anne and speaks sharply, though it isn't without concern.)

Norrington: Are you quite well, madam?

Anne: (glares at Norrington) Not more you lot!

Norrington: (politely, but with an edge) I'm sorry?

(Anne sits up, but the sudden movement seems to be too much for her. Lack of sleep, food and the long swim to the ship over-comes her, and she starts to slump back onto the deck in a near-faint. Norrington manages to keep her head from colliding with the decking.)

Norrington: (sighs) I know I'm going to regret this...

(He gently lifts Anne up off the deck and cradles her in his arms, ignoring her feeble struggle to free herself.)

Groves: She can have my cabin, sir. I don't mind bunking with the men.

(Norrington nods and looks a bit relieved that he won't have to put her in his cabin.)

Norrington: Good man. I knew I promoted you for a reason.

(Groves give a toothy grin to Norrington.)

Groves: What shall we do with the prisoners, sir?

Norrington: (smiles faintly) Oh, I'm sure by now that they have managed to formulate an escape plan. Did you have the corridors unmanned?

Groves: (grins) I did, sir. That way they won't have to maim, injure or kill anyone to find you.

Norrington: (snorts, but looks concerned when Anne goes limp in his arms) Send for me
if they manage to make it to the deck. And send for the surgeon and some hot tea, please.

( Norrington nods at his men and then carries Anne to the second level of the ship, where the officer's cabins are. Murtogg and Mullroy jump to do Norrington's bidding. Murtogg heads to the galley, Mullroy goes to the surgeon. )



--- BELOW DECKS ---


Will: (speaking softly) Do you find it odd that we haven't found one man on duty yet?


(Will and Elizabeth are making their way through the bowels of the ship, working their way upwards.)


Elizabeth: (looks confused) This isn't like James.


(Will and Elizabeth exchange glances.)


Will: Or is it? Maybe he really is telling the truth.


Elizabeth: Well then...


Will: It's probably safe...


(The two of them look furtively at each other, then share a passionate if brief kiss.)


Will: Barbossa will kill us if he ever finds out about that.


(They share a quick grin and continue walking. They are still cautious, but are a bit more relaxed. )


Elizabeth: Then I guess we should never tell him about it.


( Will is about to reply when he suddenly grabs Elizabeth's arm as they hear footsteps. He steps in front of her and plucks the bottle from her grasp. Mullroy rounds the corner with the surgeon. Mullroy stops while the surgeon continues on his way.)


Mullroy: Thought you'd be here, we did. The commodore's busy with a woman, but I'm sure he can find time to fit you two in.


( Elizabeth and Will gape at him. Mullroy pauses, considers and turns red.)


Mullroy: I think I had better rephrase that...


Will: Please, do.


Mullroy: Er...we found a woman floating in the water. The commodore is seeing about getting her some treatment. He'll meet with you as soon as he's done...er, just follow me.

SECOND DECK --- INSIDE GROVES' QUARTERS


(Norrington is standing off to the side while the surgeon helps Anne to drink a glass of brandy.)


Surgeon: This should help revive you, lass. (to Norrington) She seems fine, aside from over-taxing herself. I recommend quiet rest for today and some light food. We don't have much good for patients on board right now, but I think we can spare a chicken to make some broth for her.


Norrington: (nods, his thoughts obviously not entirely on the situation) Thank you. I will see to it that she follows your instructions.


Anne: (is pale but now fully conscious, narrows her eyes at that remark.) I don't think --


Norrington: (sharply as the doctor leaves) What you think doesn't matter.


(Below deck in the brig)

Barbossa: Where are they? Should have been back by now.

Gibbs: Outrunning the navy might take some time.

Barbossa: No doubt they're off enjoying marital bliss again.

Gibbs: I'll not have ye sayin' such filth about Ms. Elizabeth and Will! (takes a swing but is still chained to the wall)

(Barbossa laughs at him)


CUT TO Mullroy, Will, and Elizabeth

Will: Are you taking us to his cabin?

Mullroy: Something like that.

(enters Groves' cabin where Norrington and Anne are. Anne has passed out.)

Norrington: Good. You're here.

Mullroy: I brought them here.

Norrington: Thank you, Mullroy (dryly)

Elizabeth: James, to tell you the truth, I didn't have much of a plan- incapacitate the guards and get to you to take the ship to our destination.

Norrington: Where is it you plan on going?

Elizabeth: Barbossa has the charts. We're looking for a Sao Feng.

Norrington: You have to be joking.

Will: The only lore that has any living person knowing anything about Davy Jones' Locker is Sao Feng.

Norrington: But he's a pirate!

(Will and Elizabeth look surprised, but not necessarily shocked)

Elizabeth: How does a pirate have dealings with Davy Jones and survive?

Norrington: I don't know. He's only been the most feared pirate on this side of the world, surpassing even names like Hector Barbossa and Jack Sparrow.

Will: We still have to go to him. Release the others and we'll make our way to him.

(Suddenly, Anne summons all her strength and springs from the bed. She pulls out the sash attached to her belt and holds it over Norrington's neck)

Mullroy: Sir! She's alive!

Norrington: I can tell.

Anne: I think this ship is going to turn around and attack the Endeavor. Right now.

Elizabeth: What are you doing? We're on a rescue mission! We can't turn the ship around.

Anne: Suit yourself. (she starts to tighten the sash. Norrington gags slightly)

Will: Why?

Anne: To kill Cutler Beckett and all those who serve him, including this clown here.
CUT TO: Davy Jones' Locker. An endless white desert. Jack is sitting in the sand next to the Pearl, leaning in the shade of the ship. Elizabeth is next to him.

Jack: So then I sailed to the Mediterranean.

Liz: (mocking) to forget me?

Jack: Have you ever been to Alexandria? That's the place to forget women.

Liz: But you didn't.

Jack: For a week or two, maybe. But you can only stay in Alexandria so long, especially when you've been pilfering every establishment and corrupting all the sheik's daughters. (pauses) I figured you'd be married to the whelp by the time I got back.

Liz: And that would stop you from wanting me?

Jack: I've fought Mr. Turner once before and I've no intention of doing so again. At any rate, I thought maybe your marriage would turn you back in to the boring (though beautiful) stuck-up society lady.

Liz: You thought wrong.

Jack: Lizzie, Lizzie, why can't we ever just have a nice conversation without you arguing with everything I say?

Elizabeth just smiles at him.

Jack: You know the rest of the story, love. I came back to Jamaica, and was promptly caught up in a mess. Then you came along, unmarried and desperately in need of my services, and what could I do?

Liz: You could have kissed me on the Pearl, that time, instead of giving in to the good man inside.

Jack: I thought I was doing the right thing...

Elizabeth leans in, poised to kiss him, and Jack gazes into her eyes. He leans closer, and just as their lips are about to meet, she vanishes into the air. It was merely a hallucination.

Jack sprawls onto the sand, pounding it with his fist.

Jack: Damn that wench. Always disappearing just when we're getting somewhere.


CUT back to Norrington's Ship. (The Intrepid, ?)

The moment is still tense--- Anne has Norrington on his knees, with the sash around his neck. Elizabeth and Will are frozen.)

Elizabeth: It's impossible to kill Beckett now. He has a host of ships at his call. We have one ship and no plan. If you attack him now, we'll all be killed, and you'll be no closer to your revenge.

Will: Come with us! We'll take this ship and escape for now. We've got a friend who can help. (glances at Elizabeth, she catches on).

Elizabeth: A great pirate lord. Several, in fact. They hate Beckett as much as you do. If we convince them to join us, then we'll have a chance to defeat Beckett.

Anne has loosened her grip on the sash. She considers their words.

Anne: You aren't just making this up to save your friend?

Elizabeth: We know what it's like to be hunted and alone. We have our own vengeance to take against Beckett.

Will: Just wait for the opportune moment!

Anne considers another moment, then nods. She loosens the sash entirely, catching James as he slumps forward, breathing hard. She smiles wryly.

Anne: Sorry there, sir. I didn't mean any harm to you. A girl learns to look after herself in whatever way she can.

James: (with sarcasm) Apology accepted. It seems it's not difficult for women to use me for their own purposes.

Elizabeth blushes and Will smirks.

Anne: We'd best get away from here, then. Something tells me Beckett and his men won't wait around much longer for your decision.

James: Ah, Elizabeth. I was about to tell you--- a clever sailor payed a fortune to a certain voodoo mistress for something that should make this ship the fastest in the Caribbean.

Elizabeth: (smiling) Then we have a chance to outrun Beckett and find Sao Feng...
CUT TO...the Locker

(Jack is messing with his charts out of boredom and insanity. He hears a sound outside. Intrigued and still hopeful, he runs out only to see two small crabs scurrying along the sand.)

(He peers into the horizon and sees a small pack traveling in a line, each about two feet long and slightly cuter than "real" crabs.)

Jack (to the maidenhead of the Pearl): Stay here, darling. (follows them)


CUT TO....the Intrepid

Norrington: We'll have to gain speed gradually to throw Beckett off. We have to looks as inconspicuous as possible.

Anne: How do you know this pirate lord will help us? Pirates aren't known for their trust.

Elizabeth: We have our ways. (pauses. Runs down into the brig)

CUT TO...the brig

(Elizabeth enters)

Barbossa: 'Bout time, young Mr. Turner must have some skill in the satisfyin' department, methinks.

(Elizabeth ignores him and frees them)

Gibbs: We seem to be speeding up.

Elizabeth: Only a little. We have to lose Beckett.

Pintel: Why we just not attack? With us free, I figure we outnumber 'em by now.

Ragetti: How could you know that?

Pintel: I don't. I just wanted to fight.

Elizabeth: Will and Norrington are in charge of this right now. If you really want to fight, I'm sure they'd be happy to drop you off.

(Pintel and Ragetti look at each other and then shake their heads at her)

Gibbs: Get me on deck. We'll go with the wind and then we can go faster without him worryin'.

Barbossa: And just what's to happen when we land and Beckett lands not far behind?

Elizabeth: We'll figure it out when that happens AND we'll be watching you extra closely. (turns to go)

Barbossa: At this rate I'll never get back me ship.

Elizabeth and Gibbs: It's not your ship!
CUT TO--

(At the Empress, we see Sao Feng and his crew following Barbossa's crew..)

Cho: Where'd they be headed?

(Sao looks into his telescope)

Sao: (chuckles) Looks to me they are finally heading to the rescue.

Cho: Aye. Sparrow.

Sao: They possess my charts and we still have a deal to finish. (smirks)

Beckett: (trying to be sneaky) Fate intervened, it seemed. Your main concern is what's to be done with you. You are acquainted with Tia Dalma?

Will: (surprised to hear the name) What do you want with her?

Beckett: She sent you to find Jack did she not?

Will: You never ask a question you already know the answer to.

Beckett: Here is one I don't know the answer to-- what did she tell you about Davy Jones? Be as specific as you can.

Will: I barely have any memory of that meeting. I was aboard the Dutchman after that, almost drowned, was in a horrid kraken attack. I'm afraid I have nothing to tell you.

Beckett: Then you will be taken to Port Royal, hanged as a pirate, and parted from your dearly beloved wife until I find her and do the same thing to her.

Will: What is it you want me to do about Tia Dalma?

Beckett: Just bring her to me. Find her, return with her to Port Royal, and I will grant you full pardon and you will never see me again.

Will: Agreed.

Beckett: Thinking rather hastily, aren't we?

Will: I would rather work for you than never see my wife again.

(The guards escort him to a longboat.)

Beckett: Stop at the nearest port and give them this (hands him a letter with Beckett's seal on it). They will grant you passage to the Caribbean. Oh, and Turner. Your time is running out.

(Will rows away. Fade to black. We cut to the same scene only it is later. Will is rowing back to Singapore.)

CUT TO....The Endeavor

(Jack isn't as comfortable as he was last time. His hands have been tied just to be on the safe side)

Beckett: You're free to go. I'll soon have what I want.

Jack: Not what you really want.

Beckett: I'm through listening to you, Sparrow. The only reason I'm not hanging you is because I want to catch you with your entire crew so you can see every last one of them die before you do.

Jack: That would be a fascinating story to tell your friends. I trust, then, that Mr. Turner took his leave?

Beckett: Bound for a port even as we speak. (unties him, a smirk comes across his face) Amazing what one would agree to do for love, isn't it?

Jack: I think it would be better if we just stayed enemies, mate.

Beckett: Will Turner did not hesitate to cooperate, all out of concern for his new bride. (looks at Jack to read his face)

Jack: I concur. Good talk. (starts to walk out, then stops. He has his "I'm having a thought" face) Out of concern for his wife? What method did you threaten said woman?

Beckett: Simply that I would kill her right after him.

(Jack knows exactly where Will is going. He turns, and mouths, "shit" to himself)

Jack: Well, I'm off. (the ship has docked back in Singapore. The Pearl is tied behind it. Jack coolly walks down the dock, strutting/staggering as usual. He looks behind him. The Endeavor is pulling back out. As soon as it has made a full turn, Jack breaks out into a run.)

CUT TO...Tia's shack

(Tia is in her back room where she previously found the jar of dirt. She is searching for something, humming/singing to herself. This time, a little boy walks in.)

Boy: You sent for me?

Tia: I did. There'll be a crew comin' soon, a pirate crew.

Boy: How soon? (excited)

Tia: Not far off. I can feel it. You will meet dem at da mouth of da river and bring em here.

Boy: But they know the way?

(Tia comes out into the main room. She has a rolled-up scroll or chart in her hand.)

Tia: Dey do, but dey'll be wantin' dis.

Boy: What is it?

Tia: It'd be a question dat if dey tink of da answer, all tings will change. Hold onto it. Don't let dem know you have it. Dey will come askin' me for it and I must say I don't have it.

Boy: (unsure, but takes the small scroll and puts it in his pocket) Yes'um.

CUT TO...inside James' cabin

(Elizabeth can hardly get through the door. Anne and the surgeon are standing directly over James on either side of the bed. Will, Groves, Murtogg, and Mullroy bustle as best they can, often running into each other. Swann is just in the door, sandwiching Elizabeth between himself and Barbossa)

Elizabeth: All right. I think we need to give him some room to breathe.

Murtogg: That's a right good idea, miss. I mean, captain.

Mullroy: It's what I've been suggesting.

Elizabeth: You two, go check to see where Mr. Gibbs is. Groves?

Groves: Captain?

Elizabeth: (smiles at the title) Supervise the deck? (Groves leaves, Murtogg and Mullroy follow out) (to the surgeon) How is he?

Mullroy: Told you we shouldn't have stayed in here.

Murtogg: Sh!

Dr. O'Doyle: (Maneuvers to Elizabeth, whispers to her) We'll be giving him some laudanum here soon, small dose, mind you. It should do wonders for him. (sees her worried face) He'll live. Don't worry.

Elizabeth: Why don't you take some well-deserved minutes rest?

Dr. O'Doyle: Don't be sayin' anything to upset him or get him worked up now. (leave)

Elizabeth: Of course not. (she edges closer to James. She, Swann, Barbossa, Anne, and Will are in there with him) You got the collar off already?

Will: It didn't take too long. You look upset.

Elizabeth: Just concerned how my co-captain is doing.

James: (eyes are half-closed, feverish. He has a little bit of trouble focusing on her) Much better now that I have some privacy (looks around and sees everyone) Oh. (turns to Will) Thank you.

Will: We should probably chart a course, shouldn't we, Elizabeth?

Barbossa: All the time without the missus cleared your head, didn't it, boy? (Will gives him a dirty look)

(Jack enters. Everyone looks at him)

Jack: Oh. Well, this little shindig will just have to be postponed. (looks right at James) We have a situation as it were (eyes everyone suspiciously)

James: (sits up a little. It's a strain) If you know about it, it must be a crisis. (falls back. Anne rubs a wet towel over his forehead)

Will: Maybe this isn't the time.

Jack: I would think he would want to know about a change of course. (really hated saying that in front of everyone)

Barbossa: What did you do?

Jack: That's a fine first thought.

Barbossa: I know from experience.

Jack: Might I have a word with the captain, sorry, captains, alone?

James: (smirks) You forget, Jack Sparrow, that until I or Captain Turner (looks proudly at Elizabeth) say otherwise, you are a humble member of our crew, subject to do whatever we tell you (coughs, exhales deeply.)

Elizabeth: Everyone in this room needs to know, Jack.

Jack: Fine. (mumbles) We need to see Tia Dalma.

Will: The witch? Why?

Jack: Beckett, uh, is going to kidnap her and use her to lure Davy Jones to him whereby he will use the heart of said evil doer to control the ocean.

Swann: Witch?

Elizabeth: But how could...(she looks at Will and James. All their eyes suddenly go wide) What did you do?

Will: You said something!

(James tries to laugh but can only smile.)

James: If it's not one thing it's another...how in the world did you manage to get Beckett bait?

Jack: It was a ruse! (tries to wave it off)

Will: Probably using me.

Barbossa: Probably.

Jack: Now I didn't know you had your own plan up your sleeves, did I? It was to get you off the ship.

Elizabeth: Let that be a lesson to you. You can't make up these elaborate plans and then not tell anyone about them!

Jack (glares at her): I think you should take your own advice.

Swann: I'll have you not speak to my daughter and your captain in such a manner.

James: Anne, Will, bring the imbecle over here. I'm going to (gestures his hands strangely) use my last breath to strangle the life out of him.

Anne: As your physician for the moment, I can give you orders, don't forget. Lay back down! (to Elizabeth) You want to take your problems somewhere else?

Elizabeth: (picking up the collar) (to everyone) Stay with him. He might go out of his head soon. (to Jack) Outside. Now.

Swann: We'll take care of him.

James: (laughing weakly) If the two of you wanted to be alone, she has her own cabin now. (passes out)

Jack: Sick captains don't get to talk.

Elizabeth: Now!

CUT TO...(outside on deck)

Elizabeth: (walks close to the railing, stares at the sea for a moment) Do you know what this is? (holds up the collar)

Jack: I have a guess.

Elizabeth: You always have a guess.

Jack: Comes with being captain. You'll pick that up on of these days.

Elizabeth: I don't think you appreciate everything James has done for us. You have no idea, do you? This is what they put on James, when he gave himself up to get the information to bring YOU back. (pause) I think Sao Feng was more interested in James' torture than in getting his brother back.

Jack: (long pause) You'd probably be right about that, love.

Elizabeth: (looks at the collar) And after that, he drew them off.

Jack: I knew there was a reason I rooted for him. How long was I there?

Elizabeth: What?

Jack: Gone. (not looking at her)

Elizabeth: (disappointed laugh. She toys with the collar and sets it down on the railing in front of him) Hopeless. (walks off)

(Jack glances down at it. He watches her leave, then turns back to it. A scolding, yet thoughtful expression appears on his face. He holds the collar for a brief second and then pockets it)

THE INTREPID -- CAPTAIN'S CABIN -- PRE-DAWN

(Jack is still seated, reading James' worn journal. He occasionally glances up from the book to check to make sure James is still sleeping. Finally, he reads the last entry.)

Jack: You're too serious, mate. You need to have more fun. (He looks from James to the journal, and his face softens.) Maybe the world's already taken that from you. We'll just have to fix that now, won't we?

(James sighs and stirs. Jack realizes the man is beginning to wake, and panics when he realizes that Norrington would probably kill him if he saw him with his journal.)

Jack: Bugger.

(He looks around frantically for a good place to hide it, but James' eyes are already fluttering, so he tosses the book over his shoulder and poses in the chair, smiling brightly when James looks at him sleepily.)

James: (groggy) Sparrow? (he blinks at Jack, turns his head and sees Anne lying beside him. This propels him into motion, and he sits up suddenly, then hisses as his body protests.) What are you --

Jack: (puts a hand on James' non-injured shoulder) Easy, mate. You've been ill. You remember what happened?

James: No...It's all hazy...

(His hand flies up to his neck. Jack hesitates, then pulls the collar out from the pocket of his coat and hands it to James.)

Jack: Remember now?

James: (turns the collar over in his hands) Some. (he looks over at Anne) But not everything.

Jack: Oh, that. Don't worry, you didn't do anything fun (under his breath) As usual.

James: (narrows eyes) What was that? What have you been up to?

Jack: (brightly) Nothing. Why would you assume I was up to anything?

James: You're always up to something.

Jack: I should probably be going.

James: What did you do? (he moves to get up and realizes he's naked) Where are my clothes?

Jack: (backing away) Happily, nowhere near you. Bye!

(Jack flees with more speed than dignity. James, completely suspicious now, looks around and sees his journal on the floor near the window seat.)

James: Bastard! I'll kill him!

(He pulls the sheet back, intending to get up, but Anne stirs and he hurridly pulls the covering back down.)

Anne: Where do you think you're going?

James: (attempting to remain dignified) I intend to dress and speak with Elizabeth. I seem to recall that we are heirs to a pirate now.(he pauses, then adds) And I'm going to throttle Sparrow.

Anne: I don't think so. You need to stay here and rest.

James: (annoyed) No!

Anne: (equally annoyed) Yes!

James: (leans closer) No!

Anne: (leans in closer as well) Yes! Besides, you can't get up.

James: (leans in even closer) Oh, and why is that?

Anne: (sputters and pulls away) Because you're naked, that's why!

James: (smirks) Why so shy?

(He tosses back the covers and gets up. Anne gapes at him, then remembers finally to cover her eyes.)

James: It's not like you haven't seen it before.

Anne: Oh you -- that was different! You were --

(She peeks out from behind her hand in time to see James pull up a pair of breeches.)

James: (looks over his shoulder and smirks) I was what?

Anne: ...distracting me.

(James laughs. Anne is simultaneously furious and embarrassed.)

Anne: I meant that you were ill.

(James grabs her arm and gently but firmly pulls her from the bed.)

Anne: You still are. What are you doing?

James: Getting some peace and quiet.

(He pulls her to the door, even though she's putting up a mighty struggle.)

James: Find Elizabeth for me and tell her I would like to speak with her.

(With that, he pushes Anne out the door and closes it firmly in place. There's a click as the door is locked from the inside.)

Anne: Ooooh, that -- that -- scoundrel!

(Inside the cabin, James leans wearily against the door and closes his eyes. It takes him a few moments to straighten back up and make his way over to the water basin. It's quite obvious that he is in pain.)

-----------

THE INTREPID -- ON DECK -- DAWN

(Anne glares at the closed door. A shadow looms over her, and she looks up to see Groves, Barbossa, Jack and Governor Swann standing behind her.)

Groves: I'm impressed, milady. You've only known James for two days and you've already been thrown out of his cabin. Usually it takes at least a week or more before he does that

Jack: (to Anne) Ah, not good enough in bed for him, were you? I know he's quite well-end--owww!!

(Jack rubs his shoulder, where Groves had just hit him.)

Jack: (sullenly) Don't see why you had to hit so hard, mate.

Swann: (ignores Jack and Groves) How is he?

Anne: Stubborn as ever.

Swann: He's a man's man. If his arm fell off, he'd claim it was just a scratch and that he's fine.

Anne: Well, he's not fine, I can tell you that. He is going to wear himself out.

Barbossa: Don't worry yerself about him, missy.

Anne: (shrilly) I'm not worried! I'm just...(before anyone can 'help' her, she changes the subject.) Where is Elizabeth?

Swann: (before Jack can speak up) I believe she is still with Will.

Jack: Yes, probably still waiting in vain for him to -- ooof! Stop doing that!

(Will and Elizabeth exit their cabin and approach the group as Groves attempts to look innocent. Jack makes a face at him.)

Will: You aren't still making eunuch jokes about me, are you Jack?

Elizabeth: (eyes widen) Eunuch? (she looks at Will)

Jack: You see love, a eunuch is when a man (this time, Jack is ready for Groves' elbow and dodges out of the way. Unfortunately, Barbossa is there to slap the back of his head.) Owww!

Elizabeth: I know what a eunuch is, Jack. (begins to giggle) You think WILL is a --? (she really starts to laugh, and she hangs onto Will to keep from falling over, especially when Barbossa indicates a small length with his finger and points to Jack.)

Jack: I can see you, Barbossa! (looks at Will, who is grinning at him, and at Elizabeth, who is still laughing) So...not a eunuch then?

Elizabeth: (shakes her head) Really Jack, you think some of the most outrageous things.

(Jack looks like he might respond to this, but Anne finally speaks up.)

Anne: (primly) The commodore is wanting to speak with you, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth: He's up?

Anne: (her eyes flash) Unfortunately. Maybe the idiot will listen to you if you tell him to rest. His burn needs tending to; wash it and put some salve on it, and cover it back up.

Elizabeth: Don't you want to --

Anne: NO! (takes a deep breath) I'm going to go rest. Good day to you.

(Anne walks stiffly below-deck while everyone watches her go.)

Jack: Is it my imagination, or am I sensing a bit of tension between her and the commodore?

Barbossa: Who knows what goes on in that sun-addled brain of yours?

(As the two captains start sniping at each other, Elizabeth presses a kiss to Will's lips before parting with him. She presses a kiss to her father's cheek, and then she knocks on James' door.)

CUT TO Caribbean, Tia's shack

(There is more activity in the swamp than we have ever seen. People are bustling all over the place. The boy we saw earlier runs as fast as his little legs can carry him to Tia's shack)

Boy: Ma'am!

Tia: (coming from behind the shadows) I tol' ya and tol' ya not to be bodderin' me. What is it?

Boy: The riddle you gave me! I solved it! I know what it is.

(He opens his mouth, but Tia covers it)

Tia: Don't even speak it. Remember da ships I said would be comin'? (waits for the boy to nod) T'will be in a matter of days.

Boy: Do you know if...if...(too nervous to say what's on his mind)

Tia: Yes. I tink he'll be wid dem by now. Listen to Tia. Dis is da most important ting you have to know. (so close she's almost whispering) Don't ask for him, but wait for someone to address William Turner. Can you remember dat name?

Boy: William Turner. Yes.

Tia: Good. Now run off.

(The boy hugs her before he goes, but loses his balance. He accidentally tears a piece of jewelry off her neck. It falls to the floor)

Boy: I'm sorry! (picks up the locket and looks at it. It plays a familiar tune)

Tia: (closes it rapdily, fighting back tears) Dat will do. Go on now. Go one now and wait, little one.

Elizabeth:Head on! (The crew bustles as Murtogg steers the ship)

Mullroy: Faster!

Murtogg: I'm doing my best!

(Cho's ships are in a diamond position. On one side, Barbossa and Will's ships have flanked them. On the other, Jack and Groves have flanked them. The rest come straight across)

James: To the guns!

(the crew mans the cannons)

James: Fire!

(heavy cross fire continues. A cannonball sweeps by Murtogg's head, luckily landing into the sea)

CUT TO...below decks

(Anne along with the rest of the crew fire the cannons. She covers her ears after each one, but keeps loading.)

CUT TO... (Cho's ship)

Cho: Never mind them! The Intrepid!

(Cho's and another ship head straight for the Intrepid. The rest begin to attack Will and Barbossa's ships. Cho's is the closest. The crew begins shooting flaming arrows over onto the Liz and James' deck.)

(From behind Cho's ship, we can see Will's ship maneuver towards them)

Barbossa: Crazy kid. (steers his own ship straight for the attacking ships. He laughs)

CUT TO...Liz and James

Elizabeth: Will! Murtogg, stay up there! (to some crewmen on deck) You all, ready your rifles. (they scramble to their guns) Ready.....fire!

(several attacking pirates are taken out.)

CUT TO...Jack and Groves' ships

(Jack and Groves manage to sink an attacking ship)

Groves: (shouting over) One would think you take out pirates all the time, Sparrow!

Jack: (shouting back) I can see how it could get addictive!

(They start on another ship)

CUT TO...Liz and James

(Cho is close enough now to see them. His eyes burn with fire when he sees James. He takes a rope)

Cho: (points to 1st mate) You! Take over! The rest of you, follow me!

(Liz and James' ship is being boarded by Cho and some of his crew. Heavy gunfighting is soon replaced by close-combat swords. James and Liz join in.)

CUT TO...Will's ship

(Will is finally close enough to Liz and James' ship. He swings over and quickly boards the ship. His sword drawn, he takes down a pirate right behind Elizabeth. Elizabeth manages to kiss him quickly before running past him to take out more pirates)

CUT TO...Jack and Groves

(The ship they are against returns heavy fire.)

CUT TO...Jack's ship

Gibbs: (on deck) It's not the Pearl, is it?

Jack: Not nearly. (looks over, sees Will, Elizabeth, and James) Take over!

(Gibbs runs up and takes the helm)

Jack: Don't disappoint Mr. Groves now. Starboard!

(Jack's ship edges closer to Cho's. Jack boards it and moves his way onto James and Elizabeth's ship)

CUT TO...James and Elizabeth's ship

(It is nearly mass chaos. James, Elizabeth, and Will stay fairly close together. Suddenly, a large wave washes over the deck. Many sailors from both sides are taken overboard. Elizabeth and Will move to the opposite end of the deck)

Cho: Now I have you, James Norrington.

(Cho makes a move to strike. James blocks)


CUT TO...Opposite end of deck

(Will and Elizabeth are starting to be overrun. Jack quickly joins them)

Jack: Just when I was beginning to think you could take care of yourselves. (takes a swing at an attacking pirate)

(Elizabeth looks to see James fighting alone. She runs over to him. Will and Jack follow.)

(James shows off his swordsmanship, almost disarming Cho. He switches arms and fights left-handed for a short while. Elizabeth joins up with him.)

Elizabeth: Call off your men! Now!

Cho: Such a pretty flower. You can die next to him.

CUT TO...Barbossa's ship

(Barbossa's ship is not doing well. It has suffered massive cannon fire. It quickly sweeps around getting closer to Groves.)

Barbossa: We'll need to come aboard, lad!

(The crew of Barbossa's ship manages to board Groves' ship just as it starts to sink. A strategic shot almost splits it in half. Within minutes, the ship is sunk.)

CUT TO...Liz and James' ship

(Will and Jack quickly switch sides, each dodging a sword coming their way. They practically bump into Elizabeth, who is still fighting Cho with James. It is eerily similar to their battle with Sao.)

Cho: I shall enjoy having you back in my control, Norrington.

(Norrington finally disarms him and takes several steps back in pain from fighting. Elizabeth rams her sword into Cho's gut. It is agonizing to watch her put more of her weight on it, sinking deeper into him. Just when he looks like he cannot be in any more pain, a last look of agony takes over his face, and then goes still)

(Rain starts to pour down as we hear a roar of thunder. One ship was sunk. All but two of the enemy's are sunk. A white flag waves across one.)

Elizabeth: Now that is a beautiful sight to see.

(A white flag waves across the other. The ships in James and Elizabeth's armada come close)

Will: (to James) Are you all right?

James: Fine, fine. Is he?

Jack: That's very dead.

(The four of them look up at each other and then out to the remaining ships. It is a clear victory.)

CUT TO...deck of James and Elizabeth's ship.

(There is a long line of seaman waiting to be seen by Anne, Dr. O'Doyle, and Zian. Fortunately, most just have minor injuries. Swann is close by, recording any problems. Moving down the line, we see Jack and Gibbs side by side.)

Gibbs: The hulls of these vessels, not near to what the Pearl was.

Jack: Is, mate. Is. I know she's not torn to pieces yet. (sees Anne has finished) Just the one I wanted to see.

Anne: (sarcastically but in a good-natured way) You flatter me. Let's see.

(Jack lifts up the back of his shirt. He has a nice cut)

Anne: Ooh, let's take care of that, shall we? (gestures for him to come closer) Fortunately it's not much.

Jack: Doesn't look like much either. No story there.

(Elizabeth walks by after checking on the sailors in line)

Elizabeth: Father?

Swann: Elizabeth, according to Sao's inventory, we should have enough supplies to fix everyone, bandages, a few things for pain. Next port we stop at we should probably look into buying a few more.

Elizabeth: (looks back to see her crew) And to give them a short rest. We'll stop somewhere for a few hours to let them have some fun. (hugs her father and starts to leave, sees Jack) What's wrong with you?

Jack: Not much according this one (points back to Anne)

Anne: Try not to act so disappointed.

Jack: You're not the one making a living off these stories you know.

Anne: You're about done anyway!

Elizabeth: (goes behind him) You weren't lying. (pause) You came to help.

Jack: So I did. Goes right into your "good man" theory, unfortunately.

Elizabeth: (leans down) Jack, I'm so sorry.

(He looks up at her, knows what she's talking about)

Jack: All over, love.

(Elizabeth smiles and heads back)

CUT TO...Madagascar port. (It is Tortuga-Lite. Foreign music and exotic smells fill the air. Men and women of all colors, shapes, and sizes walk around, eating and talking in several languages. In other words, our heroes feel quite at home.)

(James and Elizabeth exit the Empress. The men run out in front of them, almost like children.)

James: This should raise some spirits, don't you think?

Elizabeth: I think so. (looks to see where everyone is) I think the pirate captains deserve a drink on us, eh?

James: Splendid idea. (extends his arm to her for her to take it)

Elizabeth: And you know who else has worked so hard? Our physicians and our surgeons.

James: No doubt about that.

Elizabeth: (breaking away from him) Why don't you find our crew while I round up the doctors and Anne. (hurries away from him before he can reply)

(James searches the area, sees Will and Groves talking. He smiles to see Will looking more cheerful.)

Gibbs: Who ya lookin' for, Commodore? (has full flask) Some ravishing delight?

James: Our captains. You should join us for a drink, too.

Gibbs: Why, I'd be delighted. Jack! He's over there, sir, pr'y talkin' some sense into Barbossa.

James: Sense?

CUT TO...Jack and Barbossa. (Jack seems at home, more relaxed but Barbossa looks restless.)

Barbossa: Don't s'pose no one would notice if I were to sneak off for a respite, hmmm?

Jack: Asking me for advice? I think I'll savor this.

Barbossa: You got to be feelin' it too.

Jack: S'cuse me? (preparing for a laugh)

Barbossa: (whispers) There's but two ladies in our company, and I ain't fancyin' either one, but so help me...there's, there's urges, Jack.

Jack: Can't help you. I don't take to masculine propositions. (decides to milk it) Don't really know what you want.

Barbossa: (sighs) A brothel, Jack! I need to slake me....

(James and Gibbs approach)

James: Evening, gentlemen.

Jack: Evening, Commodore. Barbossa was just telling me about all the amusing things to do in Madagascar. Would you care to elaborate?

Barbossa: Bah!

James: The co-captains of the Empress extend an invitation for drinks. Knowing Sparrow, he'll be coming. What about you?

Jack: Yes, what about you? (loving this)

Barbossa: Is that an order?

Gibbs: Most definitely.

Barbossa: Not as if I had anything else to do....

(Jack catches Elizabeth bringing Zian, Dr. O'Doyle, and Anne with her.)


CUT TO...inside of the bar. (James, Elizabeth, Will, Jack, Gibbs, Groves, Barbossa, Qiao, Dr. O'Doyle, Zian, and Anne sit around a crowded round table)

Elizabeth: Will, would you care to make a toast?

Will (raises glass): To Marty! Faithful, brave, heart as big as the sea.

(All drink. Barbossa looks towards the door.)

Barbossa: Well, I best be gettin' some rest.

Jack: That's not what you were telling me. You had a whole night planned.

(Barbossa glares at him)

Barbossa: It's all good for a man that don't have nothin' else to occupy his time. (looks at Qiao) You there, fella, stout little heart you have. What say we go amble through the port?

Qiao: (decent English) Women should be escorted in place like this, captain.

(Barbossa sees she's a woman)

Jack: He was looking for someone to escort him.

Barbossa: Do you never keep your mouth shut? Good night. (squeezes past half the group to get out.)

(Elizabeth gives Will a prodding look)

Will: Well, now this isn't a very civilized little party, is it? Commodore Norrington, I'm technically not supposed to sit next to my wife. Would you mind switching places with me?

(James gets up, squeezes past the others to switch with Will. Elizabeth is now on one side of him, Anne on the other.)

James: Proper enough now, Mr. Turner?

Will: (blushing slightly) For pirates, yes. I think that about does it.

(Smaller conversations begin and it's quite a lively table. People are exchanging stories, reminscing, comparing drinks.)

Will: A second home to you, Jack?

Jack: Why not a fourth or fifth home? (suddenly looks taken aback. A tall, beautiful, African woman pushes her way over to their table)

Gibbs: Why that's---

Jack: Shh!

Prostitute: I thought I said I never wanted to see you again! (slaps him and storms out)

(All conversation stops)

Jack: Been here once or twice before. Reputation kind of fell out of favor, however.


(Conversations resume. Camera pans to the door. A familiar looking, hobbled man limps in. Will stands and runs over to him.)

Will: You!

Old man: Saw you, Beckett's ship. Didn't...forget

(The party rises to help him sit down.)

Dr. O'Doyle: He looks exhausted. Bring him some water!

Will: How did you escape?

Old man: (wheezes) Not important.

Gibbs: Go on.

Old man: (struggles for breath) The last thing before I escaped...

Will: What? What happened?

Old man: I heard him say, boy, heard him say...

Anne: (reachign him first) We're losing him.

Old man: I heard him say, (barely whispering) he'd be waiting for you.

Will: Waiting?

Old man: Beckett. Waiting for you. (slumps down in his seat)

Elizabeth: Is he dead?

(Anne checks for signs of life)

Anne: Yes. Poor soul. Care to explain, Will?

CUT TO...

(Jack, Will, Elizabeth, James, and Barbossa are in a longboat, making the long, winding way towards a familiar shack. The little village is quiet. A few of our heroes are still a little tipsy.)

Will: Just when did you meet Tia? I don't think we heard you say.

(All eyes turn to James)

James: (tipsy) Much happened between meeting up with Beckett again and landing this new position. Elizabeth, your father probably should have come with the (loses balance slightly) four, five....all of us.

Elizabeth: (stifling a laugh) Why don't you just turn around and be on your guard? I'm sure Father's fine.

James: Should have had some with us.

Elizabeth: You should have left it for the crew.

James: Excellent idea! Sparrow, Captain Turner and, well, I, appoint you to deal out the only substance that manages to kill my pain. (laughs at his own sarcastic remark)

Jack: You may tell the captain that I am disinclined to acquiese to her request. (to Elizabeth) Really should have joined us, love. Would love to see you drunk. Or are you still a believer that it turns respectable men into complete scoundrels?

Elizabeth: Just a few.

Will: (sobering slightly) What's that over there?

(they look to the side of their boat. A little reed winds around out of the water towards them.)

James: (gets pistol out) That reed looks suspicious. (hiccups)

Will: You're suspicious. (He leans over and fingers it. Suddenly, a little boy pops out of the water, coughing slightly)

Jack: Remy!

Remy: Jack! (the longboat pulls up to outside Tia's shack. Jack gets out and picks the boy up in his arms) You be wantin' to see her?

Jack: Unless you think that's a bad idea? (eyes him)

Remy: Not at all. She's expectin' you, she says.

Will: That's never good. How did she know we'd be coming?

Jack: You haven't seen anyone else, have you? Possibly a giant bluish-green man with tentacles for a beard and an ill temper, eh?

Remy: (laughing) I'd let you know. (hand unconsciously taps the pocket the tiny scroll is in) I come in with you?

Elizabeth: I'm not sure that's a good idea... (Remy runs into the shack before she can finish) Well, we might as well follow suit. (enters)

CUT TO...inside of Tia's shack.

(Tia is at her table with her crab claws. She looks much cleaner and her teeth are whiter, as if some of her as melted away)

Tia: Didn't know if I'd be seein' y'all again, least not all together.

Jack: (ducks under her hanging jars) A pleasure as always. Glad you decided to send this motley crew for me.

Tia: (rises and heads toward them) Yet ye be standin' in the doorway. Sit down. You too, captains. (lets her hand glide across James' chest as she goes back to the table) What ya be needin'?

(Jack looks at everyone else. They usher him to start. He makes a face.)

Jack: Well, ahem, you may be receiving more visitors in the near future. (sits across from her. The others follow)

Tia: Dead or alive? (looks up at Barbossa, he avoids eye contact)

Jack: Oh, very much alive and craving power. (sheepish grin disappears) The East India Trading Company, Tia.

Tia: (stands quickly. Her chair falls to the floor) What? Not here, they ain't. What did you say, Jack Sparrow? What did you do?

Will: Please, we came here to warn you. Cutler Beckett has the heart of Davy Jones.

Tia: The heart belong to him now?

Will: Yes. He'll be coming to take you to Davy Jones. (Tia looks at him intently) If you forgot to tell us anything the last time we were here, we need to hear it now.

Tia: It does beg da question, how all came to be here at da same time?

(Elizabeth looks at James. He seems reluctant to even look at her.)

Elizabeth: Captain Norrington and I command the late Sao Feng's ships. We have 11 ships now. We could protect you and your village from him. It's not hopeless, especially if we have your help. (leans over the table, gaining confidence) You really don't want Beckett to control the sea, do you?

Tia: Sao give ya his Piece of 8? (Elizabeth nods) What a lovely gift. Which one he give it to?

James: Both of us. We were meant to share it.

Tia: Fitting, but not in either of ye's nature. One must be in control. (nears James, coyly lets her lips hover all around his face without touching him)

Elizabeth: I share the Piece of 8 with James.

Tia: That's not all he's shared. (grins at him) Had no idea you'd take to likin' sailin' wid da little pirate.

Will: (losing patience) Is there any way to destroy the heart? Tell us all you know about that.

Tia: Da way to destroy da heart'a Davy Jones is ta stab it.

Barbossa: There be another way, I heard.

Tia: Legend. Legend covered in deep myth. (to Will) Now if you were to retrieve him heart, bring it here...

Jack: Do you want me to tell them about all the horrors you can pull without it? We're not bringing you the heart.

Tia: You want me to tell dem all 'bout what ya dream in da Locker and here on world? (sees Jack shut up) If one of ya would stay, I could take him to da Flying Dutchman...

Elizabeth: You could have done that in the first place.

Tia: But da heart was not dug up then, was it? I thank ye for findin' it, Captain of Sao Feng's assets, but you be busy lookin' after James Norrington I see.

(James and Elizabeth glare at her.)

Will: Is there something you're not telling us?

(Remy, who has been listening to all of this, edges his chair closer to Will)

Will: Why did you bring back Barbossa really? Why did you send us to Jack?

(Tia says nothing. She opens her hand and reveals several Pieces of 8)

Barbossa: Good God! These folks'd give their dead bodies before their coins!

(Tia smiles up at him)

Barbossa: Oh, you ain't gettin' mine, madam. Thanks for bringing me back to life, but this stay with me.

James: You could have taken it off his body.

Tia: But then who would lead ya to Jack? (smiles at Jack, then stands up and goes to James) Who would bring ye back to me?

Jack: So it's all true. (she turns to him. Jack quickly takes Remy and points his pistol at her)

Remy: What are ye doin'?

Jack: What's this boy have, Tia? What's he have?

Tia: I don't know what you mean?

Jack: Why do you need all the Pieces of 8, hmm? I know a lovely little sea goddess who's rumored to need them all to leave her body. Tryin' to get out of a cage, are you?

Elizabeth: Goddess? (looks at Tia)

Tia: Let me take William Turner. Let me take him to da Flying Dutchman to get da heart. No need to be shootin', Jack.

(Jack lets Remy sit back down.)

Will: (takes compass out of his pocket and dangles it in front of Tia) We both want to find the Flying Dutchman. So tell me, is it what you want most?

Tia: Don't try to outwit me, William Turner. Your destiny is locked in place, already in motion. A little touch of destiny is now draped over you, and you cannot be free of it.

(Will looks disturbed.)

Tia: Pardon me (goes back further into her shack)

Elizabeth: (whispering to James) Why on earth did you come to see her?

James: (whispers back) Speed up my ship.

Jack: Don't worry, mate. We won't say a word to any gorgeous widows about the fun you had here. (pats him on the shoulder. James groans in pain) Sorry.

James: Will all of you...(Tia comes back. She carries a hulking, furry cat in her arms)

Tia: Take dis wid you, James Norrington. She protect you. (shoves cat into James' arms.) You not give me William, not Pieces of 8, you face Beckett soon. You face him and all you will die.

CUT TO...Barbossa's ship.

(Barbossa is at the helm. He sees Will on the Dutchman and the Dutchman coming close to the ship Elizabeth and James are on. He spins it quickly to maneuver to them.)

Barbossa: Prepare for battle, boys! The other ships'll follow!

(The crew scrambles. Murtogg and Murray scurry to some rifles.)

Barbossa: Aim straight and true! They'll be comin' over! (As soon as he finishes, a slew of Davy's monsters invade the ship, two of which come at Barbossa from both sides. Barbossa rams his sword straight into the one on his right and then shoots the one on his left. He lets out a hearty laugh.)

CUT TO...Jack's ship

(Gibbs is at the helm. Jack runs over to the side of the deck. He first spots Will on the Dutchman)

Jack: Bloody hell...? Gibbs!

Gibbs: Aye!

Jack: Hard to port! Now! (starts climbing up the rigging)

(The ship, followed by Groves' and Qiao's, move over to the Intrepid. Jack's ship actually bumps into Elizabeth and James ship, interrupting Jack from swinging across. He falls from the rigging onto the deck of the Intrepid. Scrambling to his feet, he runs across the ship onto the Dutchman. He looks every which way, as if searching for something. He draws his gun.)

Davy: Looking for something?

(Jack turns to see Davy Jones with a sword drawn)

Jack: Certainly wasn't you. (lunges his sword at him)

Davy: (goes on the offensive) Well, well, a lost bird who never learned to fly. I'll enjoy ordering you about for the rest of eternity.

(They parry, each one's thrusts growing in intensity)

CUT TO...Will's ship

Elizabeth: Will! (gets loose of Barbossa long enough to run to the rail of the deck. The sudden burst of movement catches James' eye. Still kneeling, he grabs her legs as Barbossa reaches her.)

Elizabeth: Let go! Let go! I need to get to him!

Barbossa: He's gone, Elizabeth! He's gone.

Elizabeth: NO! No, no, no...

(The fire on the Dutchman persists. Jetsom floats towards them. Elizabeth is finally overcome and faints. Barbossa barely catches her limp body.)

(Jack stands nearly frozen, staring straight at the sight of what is left of the Dutchman.)

James: (straining to stand upright. To Barbossa) Take her to her cabin. We need to make some distance between ourselves and...this. (gestures to Anne) I'm all right. (face pales. He closes his eyes and steadies himself) Let's go.

(Barbossa carries Elizabeth away)

Jack: (gaining back his alertness) Bring out the nets! Clear past the wreckage. Start looking for survivors!

James: What are you doing?

Jack: (ignoring him. Continues ordering the crew) Spread them out! It's a lot of water to cover.

James: Captain Sparrow, you are not captain of this ship. (hobbles over to him)

Anne: (to James) And you need to get back to your own ship. (sees Barbossa coming back) Barbossa, talk some sense into them.

James: Sparrow, Will is dead.

(Jack looks at him, at first in horror and then suspiciously. His breathing a little more shallow, we can almost see on his face the realization that what James is saying is true. He turns and heads for his ship.)

Anne: (to James) You're next. Where's Swann?

Swann: (shaking) Here. I'm going to my daughter's cabin. She, she shouldn't wake up alone. (exits)

Barbossa: Orders, captain?

(James gives him a blank look)

Barbossa: I can take it from here, Commodore. (sees James give him a disoriented look) You ought to be looked at, don't ya think? (to crew) The rest of ya, find the physicians in shifts. You (points to a group) go first. Everyone else, more distance. Make haste!

(James nods. Barbossa raises an eyebrow at James' compliance. As he starts to go, he sees Tia Dalma walk up on deck. She sees the Flying Dutchman, what is left of it, and lets out a piercing shriek. Everyone stares at her. Walking like a zombie, she turns and gives James an anguished look and drops into the ocean. A few crew members run over to see, but she has disappeared.)

Cut to....Beckett's ship

(Beckett is at his desk, fidgeting.)

Beckett: Mr. Mercer! Mr. Mercer!

(a young officer walks in)

Man: Sir, the, the body count is still be added up, but...

Beckett: Unless you have something constructive to say in the next five seconds, you're advised to leave.

Man: (nervous) Mr. Mercer was among the dead. Apparently when Will Turner destroyed the Dutchman, some--

Beckett: I don't want to hear anymore about Will Turner. (suddenly, it is as if a lightbulb has gone on over his head) Bring me that ring over there.

(The man scurries to the ring and brings it to him.)

Beckett: Ah, this is what I can use. Now, (turns to the man. An eager, helpful expression is on the man's face) get out.

(Beckett is left alone. A smirk spreads slowly on his face.)

CUT TO...Jack's ship

(Gibbs is walking on the deck to Jack's cabin. He knocks, no answer. He tries once more, but there is no answer. Shaking his head, he opens the door and walks in.)

(Inside are several empty rum bottles on the desk and on the floor. The cluttered space is a mess.)

Gibbs: Cap'n?

(Jack has a slight stagger getting up from his bed. His eyes are bloodshot, but he appears more hungover than drunk.)

Jack: Tell me, do all old salts like yourself enter rooms when your knocking goes unanswered?

Gibbs: Cap'n, I was thinkin' since it's after the funeral and all, that we need a plan.

Jack: And?

Gibbs: And I have one.

Jack: (sputters out a laugh) Really? (crosses arms) Do share.

Gibbs: We have to find out first what happened to Calypso, by my reckoning. (sees Jack nod but doesn't catch it's mocking) Then, we best be findin' a way to keep Beckett off our backs. He won't be givin' up even with the Dutchman no longer on his side.

Jack: All spot-on points, Mr. Gibbs. Really. Now, what should the very first thing we do be?

Gibbs: That's where you come in. We figure you're so good with the details...

Jack: We?

Gibbs: We meanin' myself and the crew.

Jack: Ah. Well, (escorts him to the door) I'll leave you and the crew to your thoughts.

Gibbs: Jack! We need you out there. The captains need you. It's... (places his hand on the cluttered desk. He looks down on it and sees a familiar letter) Is this...is this Will's note to you?

Jack: Maybe.

Gibbs: It's not even opened! (picks it up) You have to read it. It might be important.

Jack: I'd rather not.

Gibbs: Are you afraid he'll tell you? (sees Jack's annoyance begin to boil) But, all fears aside, you have to read it.

Jack: The addressee determines when parcels and the like shall be opened, not shameless ne'erdowells who come up with half-done plans. Shoo! Off you go! (waves at him to go)

Gibbs: Jack. (shoves the letter in front of him) It was a dyin' man's wish you read what's on here. It can't be that long, can't take too much of your time.

Jack: Fine. (opens it and takes out the letter, sees it's not an exceptionally long letter. He looks up and sees Gibbs lingering)

Gibbs: Got to make sure it don't get lost in the mess.

(Jack pushes the mess on the desk aside and sits on top of it. He reads silently, but we can hear Will's voice)

Jack,
By now, if you're reading this, it means I have died. Hopefully you have spared James' life, at least long enough to allow him to hand out the letters I entrusted to him. Don't be too hard on him. Everything he did- I take full responsibility.
I knew he could probably restrain Elizabeth if she were able to come onto the Dutchman, but I am sure you will make an attempt to help me. You have been quite a handle to help, but then again you always manage to help me to some degree. I meant what I said that day at Port Royal when I said you were a good man, and you are, just an impossible one as well.

(Jack flashes a small smile. We haven't seen a smile on his face for a while. He continues to read)

Your friendship has meant more to me than I care to let on, and with that said, I feel I know you on a level most people do not. For example, I know you're in love with Elizabeth.

(Jack coughs. He almost fumbles the letter)

Gibbs: What is it?

(Jack lifts a finger to shush him. The letter continues)

If there is a person whom you've been there for more than me, it's her. I don't blame you. In fact, I compliment your taste. I've finally had the pleasure of being her husband, even if it was only for a little while. I know she's been faithful to me in mind and body, but I know she feels a closeness and devotion to you. I entrust her protection to you, even though she rarely needs protecting, and even though you're a self-serving, manipulative ass. If you wish to pursue a relationship with her, and if she comes to love you, I give you my blessing.

Take care of her and yourself and the crews. I thought I would never wish good fortune to a pirate, but if one needs to have it, it is certainly you.


(Jack folds the letter and sits with wide eyes. We can almost see the wheels turning. He leaves the desk and begins to pace around the room. Gibbs follows him around the cabin.)

Gibbs: What is it? Is it good news?

Jack: In a way.

Gibbs: What did it say?

Jack: Shh! Thinking... (dashes out of the cabin. Gibbs follows him out. Jack shouts orders to the crew.) Bring us around to the co-captains' ship.

Gibbs: Ah! A captains' conference. This is a good start.

Jack: You're in charge until I get back.

Gibbs: Can you at least tell me the gist of it?

Jack: Permission. It's new. Never usually have permission.

CUT TO...James and Elizabeth's ship

(James shifts slightly, his arms still around Anne. They are silent, but share warm carresses and, well, snuggling. James traces her hairline with his fingers as they lock eyes.)

Jack's voice: Commodore! Lizzie!

James: (furious) What the bloody hell does HE want? (starts to get up)

Anne: You don't have to speak to him if you don't want to.

James: (putting on his pants) And then he'll come looking for us and I'd rather the whole crew not...(looks back at her. His face softens somewhat as Anne scrambles to her clothes)

Anne: Run up before I do. I'll come up later. (she rushes to him to give him a short but passionate kiss and watches him go to the deck)

ON THE DECK

James: What do you want, Sparrow?

Jack: Ouch. What happened to your face? You look bloody awful.

James: I swear to God...

Jack: Was I interrupting something? (can somehow see the signs) Or were you still being a smug, self-righteous git?

(James starts for him. Elizabeth finally comes out of her cabin.)

Elizabeth: James. (to Jack. She looks like she hasn't slept in days. It is worse than how she looked at the funeral only earlier that day) Did you come for a purpose?

Jack: Just the captain I wanted to see. (to James) Fare thee well. (back to Elizabeth) I had a thought.

(Anne rushes up. She is fully clothed, but her hair is disshelveled)

Jack: Ahhhh, hello. (Anne looks flustered) Grief feels so good, doesn't it, Annie?

Elizabeth: Back to that thought.

Jack: Cabin?

Elizabeth: (weary) This way. (looks back at James. She bites her lip, a hard decision on her mind. A thousand thoughts are in her head) James, are you coming?

(She and James share an understanding but hesitant smile as he approaches her)

James: I couldn't ask you to forgive me.

Elizabeth: Someday I will. Not today, though.

Cut to... Tortuga. Norrington is walking amidst the crowded, rowdy streets, his arm slung over Giselle and Scarlet, laughing and giggling. Barbossa walks behind him, muttering and rolling his eyes. Pintel and Ragetti both follow, ill at ease. Their group of ships can be seen behind the port.

Norrington: So then I said to him, 'pirate? he was a monkey!'

Scarlet and Giselle laugh like it's the funniest thing they've ever heard.

Barbossa: I hate to ruin so splendid an evening, but think it's high time we said goodnight.

Scarlet: (to Norrington) Well, why don't we go upstairs and you can tuck us in?

Barbossa: (muttering) he's in no condition to climb any stairs.

Norrington: I have a better idea. There's a cozy little spot just a little ways out to sea... what say you to a midnight swim, ladies?

Giselle: (pouts with a sly look on her face) But I have nothing to wear!

Cut to the Beach, with Tortuga in the background. Barbossa is sitting glumly next to Pintel, Ragetti, a pile of clothes. Norrington, Scarlet, and Giselle and swimming a hundred or so feet away, splashing each other. They are moving steadily to the outside of the bay, and soon disappear from Barbossa's sight.

Norrington: Just a little further this way...

Giselle: Ouch! I just stepped on something sharp!

Norrington: I'm taking you somewhere very special.

Scarlet: Well, wherever it is, it's awfully deserted.

Norrington begins leading them towards shore, and the screen shifts to a gathering of trees onshore, where a dark pair of eyes is watching the threesome. The figure sees them approaching land, and turns, running madly into the jungle. It seems to know it's way well, and within moments arrives at a small hut, where a thin trail of smoke emerges from between the banana-leaf roof. The figure clears it's throat, and then steps into the light--- it's a beautiful young woman, clearly native to the island, draped in pearls and shells. Suddenly, a hoarse voice calls to her.

Voice: Ima'ka, how swiftly you run to come home to me. Anxious are we?

The girl steps inside, where dim lighting reveals a man with long gray hair and blue eyes. He's ragged and beside him is a bowl of fruit.

Ima'ka: He's here. On the beach.

Man: What? Why didn't you kill him?!

Ima'ka: He's not alone. He brought two young women. Both young and beautiful.

The man pauses and licks his lips, his eyes narrowing.

Man: Young and beautiful? Well, well. I suppose we shall have to invite them all inside.


CUT TO a very dark room, possibly a cave, with stone floors and walls. Anne is sitting in the center next to a lone, flickering candle, her arms wrapped around her knees, softly weeping. Footsteps are heard, and Anne snatches the candle and holds it up--- it's Beckett.

Beckett: Well, my dear, I'm sorry I can't offer you more comfortable accommodations, but that can't be helped now. Have you made a decision?

Anne: (refusing to meet his eyes) If I do as you ask, you must promise you will keep him alive. Do not harm him.

Beckett: Of course, of course. He's not the prize I'm after, merely a tool to accomplish a bigger plan.

Anne: And I'll be sent back to England, as you promised?

Beckett: Aboard my finest ship.

Anne: (purses her lips and nods) Very well. We have an accord.

Beckett: Excellent...

Cut to... the hut in the jungle. Norrington is sitting comfortably at the table with the old man, while the two random whores he picked up in tortuga (scratch Scarlet and Giselle, as they are unfortunately dead.) preen and giggle behind. Ima'ka brings a pot of some steaming liquid over.

Old Man: (heavy with sarcasm) Well, well, James, it seems you've done pretty well for yourself. Here you are, scruffy as ever, with two common wenches and two empty pockets. Mr. High and Mighty isn't so mighty now, is he? Or have you come to arrest me?

James: (voice strained, but trying to hide it) Nonsense. I just wanted to see if you'd really make good of your promise to kill me on sight next time you saw me.

Old Man: I thought I'd spare the ladies the gore.

The strumpets both giggle and shrug.

James: How kind of you. Though, you always were something of a leche.

The reaction is instantaneous- the old man throws the table over in a rage and leers over James.

Old Man: You worthless boy! You've always been worthless, and disrespectful to your elders. I'll not stand for it a moment longer. I've left you alive longer than is necessary.

James: Father, you really should calm yourself. This can't be good for your health.

Ima'ka, the two strumpets, and the old man gasp.

Old Man/ James' father: I'm not your father.

James: (maintaining composure) Well, technically you are. I don't think disowning me can quite erase that fact.

James' Father: This is getting us no where, boy. Why have you come? Be straight and talk fast, as I tend to enjoy hitting things after tea.

James: (suddenly serious, and contrite) I need your help.

James' father: Ha! An unsurprising though delicious development. What makes you think I'd ever help you?

James: You were right... about some things.

James' father: (now confused and wondering where the catch is) Go on...

James: I'm a pirate. I threw away my career and everything that went with it to join them. In the end, that was where my heart belonged.

James' father: (whispers, suddenly vulnerable) With freedom?

James: It was a choice of conscience. The pirates and the thieves, the beggars and the outcasts, they are hardly admirable. But the real villains made themselves clear in the name of Cutler Beckett and the East India Trading Company. I will not be counted one of them.

James' father is incredulous. He turns around and strokes his chin, his eyes wide. Finally he embraces James in a bear hug.

James' father: Well I'll be! This is an end I could never have expected! I was so ashamed of you, all these years, ashamed that you were the one roping in my friends and comrades, sentencing them... but that's all finished now. Now you understand boy, don't you? Now you can forgive me?

James: (sighs) The past is in the past. We're both better off leaving it there.

Ima'ka: Edward, it's nearly time for the ritual.

James' father: Ah, yes. We cannot risk making her angry now.

James knows what they are talking about.

James: Father, you stay with my, er, friends. I'll perform it.

James' father: (grins) You sure you remember how?

James: Always.


James and Ima'ka walk into the jungle, a fair ways away.

Ima'ka: I didn't know he had a son.

James: I didn't know he had a... a you.

Ima'ka: He doesn't have me. I have him, as I choose. I am here to do her bidding.

James: Ah yes, her. There's been much afoot from her camp lately. Part of the reason I've come.

Ima'ka: (slyly) Really?

James: I have a deal to make with her.

Ima'ka: (laughing) The sea goddess has many duties. She seldom visits, James.

James: She will tonight.

Cut to Jack and Elizabeth. They are walking across an ash gray beach under a full moon, their longboat hidden behind some rocks near shore. Elizabeth is adjusting her weapons at her side, and Jack is counting paces quietly.

Jack: forty five, forty six. Stop! (Elizabeth does, and nearly runs into him). Now look 45 degrees to your right... or was it your left?

Elizabeth: Jack!

Jack: Alright love. I'm sorry. Are you really that eager to go to your death?

Elizabeth: (gives him a dark look) Eager for someone else's death.

Jack: Like mine perhaps? You've killed me once and you seem to be intent on making sure I die again.

Elizabeth: Jack, don't be ridiculous. It'll be my life on the line. You can get back in the boat and sail off if you like.

Jack: What, and leave you to fight the baddies all by your onesy? Not a chance, love. I've written up a new section of the pirate code.

Elizabeth: Cheeky!

Jack: Yes well. You know that bit about "any man who falls behind, is left behind?"

Elizabeth: Of course.

Jack: I've added a bit. The line now reads, "any man who falls behind, is left behind, unless said man is actually a lovely young lady is desperate circumstances, in which case you stand by her until you can talk some sense into her."

Elizabeth laughs warmly.

Jack sighs and then takes Elizabeth's hand, pulling her to the cover of some dark trees.

Jack: Revenge isn't worth giving your life for. I know I'm no giver of great wisdom, but I can say that with a fair amount of confidence.

Elizabeth: I don't like it when you are serious, Jack.

Jack: (smirks) I'm sorry to disappoint you. I'll do my best to be utterly trivial from now on. Though, you ought to listen to me.

Elizabeth: I seldom do what I ought.

Jack: (grins slyly) That's my girl. (turns to study the dark, swampish landscape) I've a feeling this is going to make or break the legend.

Elizabeth: Legend?

Jack: The legend of Captain Elizabeth Turner, bravest sea lass to ever defend the ones she loves, with the help of the magnificant Captain Jack Sparrow of course. Or, quite possibly (and probably) The legend of Captan Elizabeth Turner and Captain Jack Sparrow, the most foolish pirates to ever attack an armed camp with no help and the fastest pirate deaths of all time.

Elizabeth: Jack, I'm not changing my mind.

Jack: Stubborn as ever. Well, that's that. On we go.

Jack and Elizabeth move out of the cover of the trees and Jack begins counting paces again, leading them furthur from shore. Soon they encounter a small ring of stones.

Elizabeth: A ruin?

Jack: An underground fort, if you will. A volcanoe buried the previous fort years ago, but Beckett has taken to remodling it. This was once the rowdiest port in the Caribbean, and a haven for pirates, until Beckett took it back for the crown.

Elizabeth: And how do you know about it?

Jack: Well love, if you must know, the legendary Captain Jack Sparrow was once a humble sailor who did errands for important men in wigs.

Elizabeth: (hiding a smile) You don't say.

Jack: I do say. Only, you shouldn't say anything about it to anyone else. Ever.

Elizabeth: Very well...

Jack: He kept me here, after I... disobeyed orders.

Elizabeth: And you escaped?

Jack: After a while... after Beckett got tired of torturing me. (Jack smirks again, to put Elizabeth at ease) But the mark he gave me, it turned out to be the start of my career.

Elizabeth: What did you do?

Jack: Set some cargo free. Human cargo. Just my nature I guess... to spread the good name of freedom to my fellow creature.

Elizabeth laughs. Jack suddenly pushes her down and flattens himself on the sand.

Jack: (whispering) Lookout. Don't move.

The troop of soldiers comes marching towards them...

Jack: (whispering to Elizabeth) If they see us, let me do the talking.

Elizabeth: (also whispering) I'm very capable of incriminating myself, thank you.

Jack: I don't doubt that, but I...

Jack looks up. The soldiers are next to them, looking at them with their weapons raised.

Jack: I... I found it! (holds up one of his rings)

Elizabeth: Thank God! That ring has been in the family for years.

Jack: Well, madam, shall we be off?

Soldier: I don't think so. This island is off-limits to civilians.

Elizabeth: We're terribly sorry, we didn't know. If we see any, we shall inform you immediately.

Jack: (pointing) Look! There's one over there! (The soldiers look, and Jack shoves Elizabeth, whispering 'run!' Elizabeth shakes her head.)

Soldiers: You are now in the custody of Lord Cutler Beckett, for trespassing and... (gives them a look over) more than likely, piracy.

Jack: Alright, alright gentlemen, you've caught us. Now go easy. We've been up all night and can't find that buried treasure anywhere.

Soldier: (perks with interest) Buried treasure?

Jack: Aye, supposedly the largest buried treasure Blackbeard ever buried. We could split it, mate. 60% 60%.

The soldier goes cross-eyed trying to figure out that math.

Jack: (getting closer) Think about it, mate. We'd be the richest men in the Spanish Main.

Elizabeth: Not just the Spanish Main... the entire ocean! The entire world!

Soldier: Very well, pirates. You have 5 minutes to find this treasure, or I'll shoot you where you both stand.

Jack gulps and looks at Elizabeth. He begins scratching around in the soil.

Jack: Ah! Here it is!

The soldier bends eagerly to look, and Jack quickly throws a punch in his face. The soldier goes down, but the others draw their weapons. Jack whips out a sword and a pistol.

Jack: Run, Elizabeth! Get in the boat and get away from here!

Elizabeth: (pulling out her weapons) Don't be absurd. (starts to fight)

Jack: Beckett gives prisoners no mercy, Elizabeth. You'll never accomplish what we set out to do this way. What you'll be is a very legendary but very dead pirate. And how am I supposed to explain that to your father?

Elizabeth: I'm not leaving you, Jack.

More soldiers can be seen running towards them. Things look desperate. Suddenly, one of the soldiers takes aim at Elizabeth. Jack sees, and throws himself in front of the bullet, collapsing to the ground. His shoulder begins to bleed profusely.

Elizabeth: (screaming) Jack!

One of the soldiers grabs Jack, who has collapsed, and begins to drag him towards the fort.

Jack: (softly) Elizabeth, Keep to the code...

Elizabeth fights for a moment longer, a distraught look on her face, then overwhelmed as more soldiers approach, runs back towards the boat.

Cut to.... James and Ima'ka, who have waded out into the ocean and are lighting small candles, floating them on the water.

James: I always thought this was an absurd ritual.

Ima'ka: Don't! You will offend her.

James: (laughing) I hope so.

Ima'ka: (darkly) Then you will face her wrath.

James: Undoubtedly.

Ima'ka shrugs and goes back to lighting the candles. A full moon is rising above them. Ima'ka begins to hum an eerie tune. The water ripples, then waves, and a strong wind begins overhead. James puts his hand over Ima'ka's mouth, then begins to sing an old song about Davy Jones. The wind grows harsher. Suddenly, Tia Dalma appears before them, now Calypso of course.

James: Ah! Right on time.

Calypso: You overstep your mortal bounds, James Norrington.

James: Listen to me... for the sake of your friends, you must help us.

Calypso: I do not make mortals my friends.

James: But you make them your lovers? (pauses) William Turner is dead, and our band has scattered. Beckett is taking over the ocean, even without the help of Davy Jones. Will you allow him to have it?

Calypso: The ocean is mine.

James: Then help us fight for it! Help us destroy Beckett...

Calypso: How? (lifts her hand to caress James' face) I have struck a bargain with Beckett, and I'll not go back on that bargain.

James: (truly shocked) You? Made a deal with Beckett? Have you gone mad?

Calypso: He has something of great value to offer to me.

James: And what is that?

Calypso: I'm sorry James Norrington, but you cannot win this time. Your friends have either joined Beckett or been captured by him. Your fleet is small and now, at my mercy. Thank you for bringing them to me.

James: (it's one of those moments of complete despair) What have I done?

Calypso looks ready to strike James where he sits, but suddenly, James' father bursts into the water, wielding a small knife.

James' father: Back! Back, Calypso! You'll not lay a hand on my son.

Calypso: Your son?

James' father: Aye. You know what this weapon is capable of.

Calypso: I do. (looks furious) You will all regret this night... (she vanishes into the ocean, leaving James, his father, and Ima'ka stunned)

James' father: Bloody hell.

James: Yes precisely.

Ima'ka: You have incurred her wrath... now you shall pay--

James: Will you stop the doomsday talk? We're quite aware of what's just happened.

James' father: You and your fleet have to get away from here. Quickly. She moves fast but not instantly.

James: And go where? She's right. We're lost.

James' father: Not quite. I know where Beckett is.

James: What? Bloody hell!

James' father: Come with me.

They rush back to the hut, and James' father quickly produces a map.

James: (sarcastically) Buried treasure? This is hardly the time, father.

James' father: Forget the treasure. It's the island you want to get to. Beckett has a fortress there, where he keeps prisoners. If you want any chance to destroy him, save your friends and then work on your relationship with the goddess.

James takes the map and pauses to look at his father.

James: Thank you.

James' father: (grins) You'd better get going!

James turns and rushes away.

Cut to James. Reboarding his ship, very quickly. Barbossa, Pintel, and Ragetti are following him, barking orders to the crew, having been filled in by James on the run back.

James: That's what I said. Out to sea, and follow those charts precisely. We haven't any time to waste.

Gov Swann: So, you got what you were looking for? You know how to find my daughter?

James: After a fashion. (steps away to avoid giving up what happened) Unfortunately, the sea isn't the safest place we could be now.

Gibbs comes running over to James with the charts and pulls him aside.

Gibbs: Captain!

James: Yes?

Gibbs: These charts, they must be wrong... they're leading us straight to---

James: (quickly covering his mouth) I know. It's the only way. But the fleet won't be coming the whole distance. We must be strategic. I'll go alone, first, and do my best to see everyone safely freed. If that doesn't work, we move on to plan B.

Gibbs: What's plan B?

James: I'll just put it this way-- it involves a lot of explosions.


CUT TO Elizabeth rowing the longboat, alternately weeping and cursing.

Elizabeth: I have to go back, I must. I don't care anymore, there's nothing left...

Suddenly, she seems to get an idea. She peers over the water and dips a hand in, calling at the same time "Calypso!" Unsurprisingly, it isn't long before Calypso shows up, magnificently.

Calypso: I've been having many strange conversations with mortals today...

Elizabeth: I need your help. You told me on the ship that if I needed you, I need only ask.

Calypso: Indeed.

Elizabeth: (trying to hold back tears, speaking quickly) I was trying to find Beckett to kill him, because I was so angry, so dead inside, I wanted to make him that way. I made Jack bring me here, and he's been wounded, he's been taken, maybe he's dead now. Everything I love is slipping away, and... and... I don't think I'm a real pirate, after all. I can't think. I can't plan. I need your help...

Calypso: Aye, you do. Something terrible. (smiles distantly) What would you have me do? Kill Beckett?

Elizabeth: No. Save Jack. Keep him alive, free him, whatever you can manage.

Calypso: And what will you give me in exchange for this help?

Elizabeth: Anything you ask of me.

Calypso smiles deviously...



CUT TO: James rowing a longboat up to the notorious island. It's day, but the sky is dark and heavy. Behind him, his ship is anchored, looking deserted.

Back on the island (wow, I feel like I'm writing LOST here, lol) we get a brief glimpse of Beckett peering through a telescope at James, and smiling.

Beckett: Fool. I knew he would come.

Cut back to James.

He's landed, and walks across the beach, looking around with a bewildered expression on his face. Suddenly, he hears something in the distance. The sound of a woman screaming, and struggling. He rushes towards it and sees Anne, bound, held by Mercer (he IS still alive, right?).

James: Anne! Oh my God, Anne!

Mercer whips out a knife and holds it to Anne's throat.

Mercer: Don't take another step forward.

James stops.

Mercer: Are you here to surrender, as you should?

James: No. I'm here to rescue that lady. I'm armed and I've brought quite a company.

Mercer: Well, in that case, I better just kill her and have done with it. Battles are so messy when they are fought over women. Unless you care to surrender.

James: What value am I to you?

Anne: James, please! Do as he says...

James looks at Anne desperately.

James: I'm so sorry I wasn't there to protect you...

Anne: Please, James, do something... save me.

Mercer: Well, Admiral? What is it to be?

Mercer inches the knife closer.

James: No! Stop! Let her go. I'll surrender, you can take me away, but you must promise to let her go.

Mercer: Agreed. Put down your weapons, and swear to me you won't fight.

James: I swear.

James drops his weapons and allows Mercer to bind his wrists, a knife at his throat. Then, briskly, Mercer turns and unties Anne.

Mercer: Very well, you're free to go. You've upheld your end of the bargain beautifully.

James: What?

Mercer: It was nicely played, don't you think? She won you over without any soldiers or mess. Such a help to the East India Trading Company.

Anne: You promised to send me back to England.

James: What? Anne...?

Mercer: You may have his boat, and that's more than we ought to give you. Now off you go. Rowing is hard work, especially across the Atlantic this time of year.

Anne gives him a dark look, and turns to walk away.

James: Anne!

Anne: (biting her lip, a harsh expression on her face) They promised me you wouldn't be harmed. That's the most I can offer.

James: Anne, I love you!

Anne: You don't! You told Beckett you didn't. I know all about how you traded me in. Don't lie to me anymore.

James: I'm not---

He wants to continue, but Anne has rushed into the longboat and begun rowing out to sea.

He hangs his head, and allows Mercer to lead him roughly toward the fort.

CUT TO Elizabeth and Calypso.

(Calypso grins wickedly and begins to hover directly above Elizabeth.)

Calypso: I have to say, dis give me much pleasure, Lizabet

Elizabeth: You've taken everything I had from me. There's nothing you can say that I won't do.

Calypso: Better reconsider dat.

(Elizabeth's eyes dart from side to side. A variety of things come to her mind)

Elizabeth: Say what you want and then leave me be.

Calypso: You know what I want. I want my Davy.

Elizabeth: (breaks her heart all over again to say it) He's as dead as my love. Name another price.

Calypso: It was you, your husband, and your friends what stopped my plan from taking shape. I could kill you now with one wave and no one would ever find you. But I have use for you, use for revenge.

Elizabeth: You're taking up my time, goddess.

Calypso: Bring me da ring Lord Beckett now has. I have use for it.

Elizabeth: Ring?

Calypso: Since you go to find him now, dat's all you need to know.

Elizabeth: What's so important about a ring?

Calypso: You aren't meant to know. You will bring it to me, Lizabet. You will bring it to me or else you will captain your ship all yourself.

Elizabeth: (horrified) James?

Calypso: He helped William Turner.

Elizabeth: Don't hurt him.

Calypso: I suppose I might not. Der be other ones in da world as much trouble if not more. Jack Sparrow for instance.

Elizabeth: I'll get you your ring if you'll never bother any of us again.

(Calypso smiles and vanishes into the clouds)

CUT TO...the brig of a ship

(Jack surveys the scene, too used to being in these to be that shaken by it. It's dank with water drops coming from an unknown origin. He shifts his weight, but as he moves his hand, it lands upon something he can't identify, a greenish brown goop. He removes his hand like it touched a hot iron)

Beckett: Don't look so disgusted by the place, Jack. These should be a second home to you by now.

(Jack smirks and does a silent mocking laugh)

Beckett: You want to know what led me to you?

Jack: No, I'll just be on my way. (sarcastically looks at the bars) Let's hear it.

Beckett: (pulls out a ring) A pretty little wench gave this to me, well, not gave. And by some twist of fate, it led me right to you. Fancy that.

Jack: I see. And this is the part where I'm supposed to say, "you're so clever, my lord. Do let's compare notes of our cleverness." What'd you do, murder the lass?

Beckett: Precisely.

(Jack reacts for a second, not actually expecting it...but not surprised)

Jack: So you have me, (starts playing with one of the steel bars) finally caught me. What are your plans now?

Beckett: Well, first I think I'll take you out of there...

Jack: (dryly) Bless you.

Beckett: ...and put you in with dear Norrington in the other ship.

(Jack has a visibly unpleasant look on his face)

Jack: Well, if you already have him, there's no need for me, so kindly return my ship to me and I'll be off.

Beckett: It's not that simple. I had Davy Jones well under my control until you and that miserable fleet led by Norrington and Mrs. Turner killed him. (leans a little closer to the bars) Do you remember what I told you that last time we had a little chat? That I would make sure you would watch your crew die before you were finally hanged? That day is upon you, Jack. Once I have the rest of them...

(Jack sees James' cat out of the corner of his eye walking around. Apparently they let her wander around loose on the ship)

Jack: In what manner am I to find the Commodore?

Beckett: Alive. I think once you and all your friends are through, I shall remove his cat's heart, just for good measure.

Jack: You always did know how to show animals a good time.

(Beckett ignores this and snaps at two guards. They pull Jack out of the brig and lead him away to where they are holding James. Beckett smiles)

CUT TO...brig where Jack is tossed in with James.

James: Being reunited with old friends really does do the heart wonders.

(Jack waves)

Beckett: Now to wait for someone to rescue you both. How I do look forward to that.

Jack: Leave us in here and you'll never find Calypso.

Beckett: (turns back around) As if you would know how to find her.

(James eyes Jack, then understands)

Jack: It just so happens I do now how to find her, seeing that she doesn't pick up on hints that she's worn out her welcome.

James: Stop talking, you idiot! You ruin us all!

Beckett: Norrington, calm down. Now, Jack. Do go on.

Jack: That's all I was really going to say, actually. Unless I'm compensated....substantially.

James: Self-serving Judas! (swings a punch. Jack falls backward)

Jack: Help! I'm trapped in a cell with a mad man!

James: And I'm trapped in a cell with a loathsome pirate who can't shut up.

Beckett: Gentlemen, it sounds like you could do with some separation time. What is it you want, Jack?

Jack: (to James) And let that be a lesson to you! (to Beckett) I leave here with the Pearl. That is a must. And no more involvement in any of your power-hungry misadventures, savvy?

Beckett: And what about your friend?

Jack: Oh him. (pretends to think) I'll take him and the cat with me. He's an excellent deck swabber. Gets it real shiny-like.

James: Elizabeth and I never should have trusted you.

Beckett: Ah, Mrs. Turner. If memory serves me correctly, she'll find some way to sneak in here armed. (nods to guards) You're coming up on deck with me, Jack, to conjure this sea goddess of yours. And when she shows up, provided she doesn't smite you down, you can leave with all your effects in good order.

Jack: (is let out) Thank God. I was about to be mauled to death in there.

James: (shouting) She'll never come to you, Jack! She'll be able to smell the trickery!


CUT TO...Elizabeth in the longboat. She is near Beckett's ship. Silently, she manages to climb the lines and squeeze through a port hole.

(It's very drak in the hull. She walks around cautiously. She jumps. It is Pixie, rubbing herself against Elizabeth's legs.)

Elizabeth: You're the last person I expected to see. James must be close.

(She climbs up some stairs, pistol out and ready. She is on the same deck as the brig.)

James: Elizabeth! (whispers) There's so much I need to tell you.

Elizabeth: (puts her hands up to the bars) How do I get you out?

James: I think only Beckett has a key. He took Jack above decks, so I think he has something planned.

Elizabeth: Jack or Beckett?

James: Well...both. (Pixie slides between the bars and nuzzles against James' legs. James looks up at Elizabeth) I don't suppose there's a way you can do that.

Elizabeth: Pixie. Come here, girl. (Pixie won't come back to her) Where did you say they went?

James: I don't know where, exactly. Elizabeth, Beckett wants Calypso.

Elizabeth: Why?

James: He must figure she's the only way he can control the sea now that the heart is destroyed. He's ready to kill all of us and I'm certain Calypso would be more than happy to oblige.

Elizabeth: Calypso will listen to me before she will listen to Beckett. (looks up at him suddenly. She didn't mean to say that)

James: Why?

Elizabeth: (lying) I think I reasoned with her. Woman to woman. (thinks hard) I'm going to find Beckett. I was able to get what I wanted from him once before. I'll get you out of here, James. (sneaks away)

James: (dryly) I'll just stay here then. (pets Pixie)

Elizabeth is running through the narrow ship's corridors (they ARE on a ship, right? sometimes i get confused...) when she suddenly stops and peaks into a hallway. Glancing behind her, she ducks in. Beckett's voice can be heard, barely audible.

Beckett: He promised she would come.

Henchman 1: And what has prompted you to have such faith in Jack Sparrow?

Beckett: (growling) You are to follow my orders, and my orders alone. I did not hire you for your judgment. Now remain on deck and keep a weather eye open for the goddess to appear. Jack has until dawn to make good his promise.

Henchman 1: Yes sir. (exits the room... Elizabeth flattens herself against the wall as he walks by, and then peers back into Beckett's office. Beckett pours himself a glass of brandy and leans heavily against the desk. Elizabeth pauses as if thinking for a moment, and then bends to adjust her skirt and bodice, perhaps yanking it down a bit to reveal some skin. She pinches her cheeks, and hastily unbraids her hair. Then she slips through the doorway.)

Beckett: What did I tell you about remaining--- (suddenly looks up and realizes its Elizabeth) Mrs. Turner... what a pleasant surprise.

Elizabeth: (very charming) Cutler. It's been too long.

Beckett: You've saved my men some trouble looking for you. Though they'll undoubtedly have fun looking for whatever weapons you've hidden on your person... (turns as if to summon some men, but Elizabeth reaches and shuts the door quickly, with a demure smile.)

Elizabeth: Really, Cutler. I'd hoped to have some time alone with you.

Beckett: (dryly) Do you honestly think I will be charmed into anything, my dear Elizabeth? You may have half the pirates in the Caribbean panting after you, but I assure you I am not one of them.

Elizabeth: (with a delicate pout) I know you better than that. And I'd hoped you'd have enough respect for me not to assume I'd try such a thing.

Elizabeth casually approaches Beckett's desk, and pours them both another brandy. She lifts the glass, her hand steady.

Elizabeth: Cheers. Long live the King.

Beckett: (smiling wickedly) Long live the King's man... and that would be me.

Elizabeth's smile turns slightly brittle, but she clinks his glass and downs the drink. Beckett pours another.

Beckett: So, are you going to tell me why you are here, or shall I guess? It wouldn't take long, either way.

Elizabeth: Well, it's very interesting. First I was here for revenge. You'll pardon me.

Beckett: Indeed. I've killed some very dear friends of yours.

Elizabeth: (still smiling) And very dear husbands.

Beckett: Yes, that too.

They both down their drinks again. This time Elizabeth reaches for the flask and pours another. Beckett raises an eyebrow-- then shrugs as Elizabeth lifts her glass again.

Elizabeth: And you've taken hostage my remaining dear friends.

Beckett: So I have.

Elizabeth: And have them aboard this ship, behind bars.

Beckett: So I do.

Elizabeth: (with an impressed smile) You really are quite the mastermind.

Beckett: (returning her smile) I'll drink to that.

They do. They are both flushed now, and still grinning dangerous grins. The air is of a face off between well-matched adversaries. Elizabeth pours another brandy... the last of the flask. She twirls the liqueur in her glass.

Elizabeth: It's really too bad that we haven't spent more time together... I think there is much we might have learned from each other.

Beckett: Well, we'll have plenty of time during your captivity.

Elizabeth cocks her eye and downs her drink, Beckett follows suit, though it's clear he's had enough.

Elizabeth: Unfortunately that won't be possible... you see, I'm leaving soon. Going back to England, for good.

Beckett: Had enough adventure then, have you?

Elizabeth: Well, I haven't had enough brandy. Do you have another bottle? (Elizabeth smiles engagingly and leans forward flirtatiously)

Beckett nods and stumbles back towards a cabinet. Elizabeth seizes the moment to examine his desk... papers, maps, no ring. She snatches up a pistol and shoves it into her skirt as Beckett returns with the bottle. She wastes no time in pouring another glass each.

Elizabeth: To good breeding, good manners, and everything we don't seem to have here in the Caribbean.

Beckett: (now sloshing a bit) To good women, which are also hard to come by!

They clink and drink. Both are looking glassy eyed. Elizabeth inches closer to Beckett-- she has spied a curious ring on his finger. It's the one she's after.

Elizabeth: (slurring slightly) I could be a good woman... if you'd let me.

Beckett: (also slurring) My dear Elizabeth, you are a very bad woman. Very, very bad...

Elizabeth is now inches away from him, toying with a curl on his wig. She whispers in his ear...

Elizabeth: Deep down, you're an evil man, so we're square...

Elizabeth traces down his arm as Beckett closes his eyes, and she reaches for the ring as he leans towards her mouth. She slips the ring off of his finger, and suddenly, his eyes pop open. She leaps back as he springs forward, sword drawn, and both are clearly sober and very much awake, weapons drawn, ready to fight.

Beckett: Lieutenant! (calls towards the door as he lunges forward with his sword) Give it back, or I'll murder every pirate from here to the Pacific.

Elizabeth: You won't have the chance. I'm going to kill you. (takes aim)

Suddenly, someone barrels through the door. Beckett and Elizabeth turn and gasp as Jack Sparrow bursts in.

Jack: Oh my! Am I interrupting something in here?

Beckett: Yes. The lady was about to kill me.

Jack: My apologies. Please, go on, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth pulls the trigger. The pistol clicks-- it was empty. Jack and Elizabeth's faces fall, as Beckett smiles-- he's not surprised.

Beckett: Jack, you don't ever seem to die. I could have sworn one of my men shot you. Care to try again? Or shall I run you both through now and have done with?

Jack: (ignoring him) Elizabeth... the ring!

Elizabeth: It's here... (holds it up)

Jack: The sea-witch has returned... get above decks!

Elizabeth races for the door, as Beckett pulls out a revolver.

Beckett: Not so fast. Put down the ring, and I might spare your miserable life.

Elizabeth: Put down the revolver, and we might spare yours.

Beckett: You ought to work on your bluffing.

Jack: I think she's an excellent bluffer. In any case, you won't live long enough to do us much damage. You've had enough poisoned brandy tonight to kill 10 strong men.

Beckett suddenly gasps and looks at the brandy jug; Elizabeth seizes the moment to rush out the door and up to the deck. Meanwhile, Jack is giggling to himself. Beckett's eyes harden.

Beckett: There was no poison. Liar.

Jack: (correcting him) PIRATE, if you please. Liar makes me sound soft. And as to the poison, there would have been, if I could have thought of the idea sooner.

Beckett scowls and points his sword at Jack...

Meanwhile, Elizabeth has reached the deck and Calypso waits there, silently. Elizabeth holds out the ring...

CUT TO...the rest of the ships.

(The rest of the heroes, led by Anne, race towards Beckett's ship to save Jack, Elizabeth, and James.)

Barbossa: (at the helm) Been wonderin' if you got a plan against the likes of Beckett and Calypso together, Miss Anne?

Anne: (rushign towards him) What? What do you mean?

Barbossa: (points off in the distance) Storm a'comin. Not natural that.

Anne: She'll want them alive for as long as she can. Gibbs! (signals over to another ship which Gibbs is captaining. woo hoo!) Stay behind this one.

Gibbs: Aye! (to the crew) Ease off, ye miserable oafs!

Crew man: Aye, Captain.

Gibbs: (to himself) Lives to be saved, villains to be thwarted...Captain Gibbs. (smiles at his own musings)

CUT TO...brig of the ship.

(James, Jack, and Elizabeth scramble to the deck above the brig. We see Beckett's henchmen run around every so often. So we have three unarmed pirates at a clear disadvantage.)

James: Would have been nice had you picked up a sword or two in addition to a set of keys.

Jack: Well if you want to go back in there, we could make an exchange...

(Elizabeth runs up ahead and gestures for them to follow her. If they run across to her, they could be seen. Looking very carefully, they sneak over to her.)

James: Now what?

Elizabeth: If we could get up to the top deck we could signal for help.

Jack: And alert every pirate hunter within 1000 kilometers. (Note: I know Liz says feet in COTBP, but this is about British people way back when and I don't know much about the metric system. Please insert unit of measurement if this makes no sense)

Elizabeth: And signal our own ships. Barbossa and Qao and Groves should be able to see some kind of signal.

(They see one soldier walking by, seeming nervous. It must be his first day on the job. Jack seems to perk.)

Jack: I'll handle this. (more to himself) Captain Jack's moment in the sun. (walks up casually behind the young bundle of nerves. Throwing his arms around him, he takes him to the ground and covers his mouth as he is about to yell for help.)

Jack: I know what you're thinking, mate. You're thinking, this is your chance to capture the most famous pirate in all history...

James: He flatters himself, does he not?

Jack: And while it may seem like you cornered, that you have no way of escaping, I'm willing to make you out to be the hero in this story. What say you to that? (slowly takes his hand off the youth's mouth)

(The boy nods)

Jack: What's your name?

Hopkins: Hopkins...Captain.

Jack: (sparkles at the unexpected use of his title) All right then, Tuttle.

Hopkins: That's Hopkins.

Jack: Since I am currently on top of you and am forming the plan here, I get to call you whatever I want. Now, stand up. (they stand. James and Elizabeth stay hidden)

Jack: That's a good lad. Now, (pushes himself so the boy has him in a headlock) Take me up to the top and announce you have me.

Hopkins: What?

Jack: Take me up to the top. That's where everyone can see and you can get your medal of valor or nice pat on the shoulder or whatever you want that's not included in your pay. Point that gun at me right, boy.

Hopkins: Oh, right. Um, 'I have you now.' (takes Jack up. He grins at James and Elizabeth)

James: Bloody brilliant.

Elizabeth: Quick. Follow me.

CUT TO...top deck

(Hopkins is growing more confident having "captured" Jack...unsuspecting twit. More soldiers have stopped in ther search to see what the commotion is. James and Elizabeth are nowhere in sight.)

Hopkins: Look who I found! Captain Jack Sparrow, out and about like he owned the ship. Where's Lord Beckett? He needs to see this.

(There is some cheering. James and Elizabeth hide behind some barrels. They take some rope and start filling it in the barrel, convenitently marked "rum." A small lamp is hanging up above them. They stand and watch it, waiting for the opportune moment.)

(Camera cuts back to Jack)

Hopkins: Let me see, I'll get a promotion out of this.

Jack: Damn right. (pulls a fast move and takes the gun Hopkins held and points it at him, the boy in a tight hold)

(The soldiers point their guns at him.)

Jack: Shoot me (they prepare to. Jack looks worried) Or DON'T shoot me, but either way, Tuttle will get it. That means put down the weapons. (the soldiers lower their weapons) That's all well and good.

(James and Elizabeth now take the flame from the lamp and throw it onto the rum-soaked ropes. Bright, smoky flames reach up into the sky.)


CUT TO... (Anne, watching the sea)

Anne: Look! (sees smoke off in the distance) That's where they are! Coax that wind, Mr. Gibbs!

(James and Anne give each other an awkward but longing stare. It is as if neither knows what to say.)

CUT TO...open sea

(Several crew members have broken out their instruments and entertain everyone with lively shanties. A few pirates start dancing and the rum bottles are passed around. Only Jack and Elizabeth are nowhere in sight.)

(Anne appears and laughs at the sight of pirates dancing with each other. Her eyes are searching. She sees Barbossa, in a corner drinking. He seems bitter.)

Anne: Don't you have a lot to celebrate, Captain Barbossa?

Barbossa: Heh, once again, the Pearl is lost to me (raises his bottle to the Pearl, traveling next to the ship), me old crew dispersed, and not a female soul in sight save you and, no offense to ye, madame, but you and I would never work out.

Anne: There are a few women here if you bothered to look. (she gestures to the local women the crew picked up. A matronly, but lovely, woman smiles coquettishly at Barbossa.)

Barbossa: If this conversation be over... (walks away from Anne.)

(The song ends and some applause is heard. The musicians, pleased, begin a slower waltz. A forlorn look comes over Anne's face.)

James: There you are. (She turns to see him) May I have this dance?

(Anne smiles and takes his hands. They dance closely, the sexual tension building, wafting in the air around them. Each looks as though they are dying to say something.)

James: Anne, I would have never, ever, traded you to anyone. You aren't to be traded.

Anne: I know. I'm ashamed to think I doubted you even for a second, especially to someone like Beckett, deceitful little man.

James: (laughs) As long as you forgive me...

(Anne nestles her head on his shoulder. James closes his eyes, savoring the sensation of it. He swallows. His lips move as if he is speaking, but nothing comes out. Finally, his voice manages to be heard.)

James: Marry me.

(Anne looks up at him, a gleeful smile across her face. She throws her arms around his neck and kisses him.)

(The camera pans from their passionate kiss to Barbossa and the woman.)

Barbossa: ...So there I was, about to shoot the little wench what caused me so much trouble. And then, there was a loud 'bang,' as loud as could be heard all the way down in Hades.

Woman: What happened?

Barbossa: I looked down, and it was me that was shot!

Woman: Who did it?

Barbossa: Some nameless beggar. Never saw the no-account after the incident.

Woman: You must have been terrified. But you survived it, and here you are talking to me.

Barbossa: Lucky me.

(Gibbs, Swann, Groves, and the rest of the minor characters are in ear-shot and roll their eyes at his ramblings before toasting themselves on a job well done.)

(Barbossa's ramblings fade into background noise and the camera pans to the Pearl, looking gorgeous as always. It is almost from a fly's point of view as we squeeze through a crack in the captains' door.)

(Inside, entangled in ivory linen sheets on a large bed, Jack and Elizabeth lay sleeping in each other's arms. It does not take vulgarity to observe they are unclothed. There is a calm silence.)

(We cut briefly back to the band playing on the other ship. They have just ended their slow song and begin a rousing, extremely, EXTREMELY loud rendition of a familiar song. The crew begins singing the famous opening words, "Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me."

(Cut back to Jack and Elizabeth. They stir with a jump to the loud music. They sit straight up and look around, somewhat disoriented. They shake their heads and look at each other. There is a comfortable pause.)

Elizabeth: They're probably all looking for us.

Jack: That is my guess (gathers her back into his arms). Think you can ignore it?

Elizabeth: (gives him a sexy kiss on the neck) If you can distract me.

Jack: Pirate. (grips her. They share a hard, lingering kiss.)



("He's a Pirate" starts suddenly as the screen fades to black. The credits begin rolling. There is a special thanks to Willofthewisp for writing such subtle, yet spectacular, vivid smut. There is a special thanks to Kate for all the drama and twists the story has. There is a special thanks to Surreal for the POTC comedy and the great narrative. There is a special thanks to Minie Mina for the little touches that make Jack, well, Jack.)

(Finally, there is a special thanks to everyone that read the story, because a movie is nothing if it does not touch people's hearts.)

Glad you enjoyed!