by Melanie Cossey

Created on: August 14, 2010

“A wench?” Captain Adam balked. “No wench is a match for any man!”

“Aye, but you are wrong, sir.” countered Rusty Jack. “This dame ain't like the rest.” He thrust the scroll into Captain Adam's palm who unrolled it hesitantly.

 Wanted for pirating and murder.

Jane “Sweetheart” Jones.

$1000 gold coins for any man who can bring her to justice

Alive only.

 “Bah” said Captain Adam, heaving the poster aside, “We'll see about that! Bring her here!”

 Soon a paprika-haired woman stood before him.

 “Is this you on the hand bill?” Adam demanded

 “Aye 'tis.” She hissed.

 “Boys, loose her bindings. Let's see what this wildcat will do.” Captain Adam barked.

 Jack balked. “Are you sure? She's dangerous! It took five of us to subdue her.”

 “Just do it!” He snapped.

 Jack cut her rope and ran for cover. Captain Adam looked at her expectantly.

 Sweetheart Jane just stood there eyeing the Captain.

 “What would you have me do, sir?” she asked innocently. “I've been stripped clean. I carry no weapon. Your boys saw to that. Do you expect me to kill with my bare hands? I am trained at sword play and quick with a pistol, but without these things, I'm just a mere woman.” She smiled.

 “Aye, just as I thought; nothing but a defenceless wench.” He approached her, chuckling.

 “Quite true, sir, I'm afraid you have me, ah, defenceless. I am at your mercy.” She cocked her head and batted her eyelashes at him. “My but you cut a handsome figure, and such finery you wear, you must have ransacked several mighty ships to acquire those, my lord.”

 “Aye, yes, quite right.” He stood before her beaming with pride.

 “Give us a kiss then.” she cooed.

 Captain Adam leaned towards her, pursing his lips.

 From behind her left ear, hidden in the mass of orange curls, Jane pulled out a tiny blade and effortlessly slit the Captain's throat. He fell dead at her feet.

 “And that, boys,” she grinned, “Is precisely why they call me Jane “sweetheart” Jones!”

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