I shall resume the telling of the tale.
Captain Peanut Butter retired to his cabin to consider what to do. It was unusual. The Captain has a quick mind. But we were in a tight spot, and our next course of action would not be an easy decision.
After what felt like hours but was likely far less, the Captain returned to the deck.
“Lads, we need to have a meeting,” Captain Peanut Butter said. “I have made a decision that will affect all of us in life-changing ways. As you are aware, we are being pursued by the French. The British navy is out in force, preventing us from making it to Kapri to return Britpop and Andelbert to their home. Lord Archibald Hamilton offers a pardon and gold to any pirate who brings in a known pirate Captain, and I am a popular target. With these realities in mind, I have made a decision. I will retire from pirating.”
There was a great commotion among the crew as many shouted “no!” and asked questions simultaneously.
“Hear me out,” the Captain shouted, and the crew eventually grew silent. “I have saved enough gold to buy land and retire. I also set aside gold for each one of you in case this day ever came. Although I did not expect to live to see it. We will sail for The United States Of America. It is a new country. You can be whatever you want there. Take the gold and start a new life or continue as pirates with a new Captain. The choice is yours. As is The Jellyfish.”
The commotion started up again. Everyone spoke at the same time.
“I will not sail for any other Captain,” Jonas shouted.
“We are family. You cannot leave us,” Barrelhoop said.
“Don’t do it, Captain,” Cookie pleaded.
“Hear me!” Captain Peanut Butter shouted again. “The decision is made. I will not waver. We sail for The Americas. But first, we sail for Spain.”
Note:
This concludes Book 2 of the Baron Britpop Blastfurnace series. The adventure continues in Book 3, Captain Peanut Butter.
Well...this should open up a whole new plethora of problems!