"Go wake daddy."

"Okay."

A moment later, Will felt someone poking his shoulder.

"No, Wills, jump on him."

A soft giggle form two people came to his ears. He felt someone climbing on the bed. He waited a moment then…

"Gotcha!" Will shouted, grabbing his son before Wills could jump on him.

Wills screeched as his father took him into his arms.

Will laughed and tickled him a moment. Once that was done, Wills jumped into his arms and squeezed him.

"Good morning daddy," said Wills.

"Hello Wills," said Will with a yawn.

They pulled away and smiled at each other.

Elizabeth giggled.

"Now I have the whole day with you," said Wills happily. He looked at his father's body. "Daddy, you're really, really strong." He pulled at the key.

"I'm a sailor Wills," said Will, pulling the key back.

"Can I be a pirate captain too?" asked Wills, touching the key again.

"I don't care what you do," said Will.

Wills jumped on the bed.

"Come on my little pirate captain. Let's go get breakfast ready so your father can get his clothes on," said Elizabeth as she took Wills's hand.

"I wanna stay with Daddy," whined Wills. He folded his arms across his chest.

Will leaned over the bed. He tickled his son's nose. "I'll be out in two minutes."

"Promise?" said Wills.

"Cross my heart, I promise," said Will, crossing his chest. Wills laughed. "What's so funny?'

"You don't have a heart Daddy," laughed Wills.

Will rolled his eyes as he leaned over the bed more, but kept his lower half covered. He crossed the chest at the edge of the bed. "Are you happy now?"

Wills nodded. "Uh-huh."

"Go on, I'll be right out," said Will, giving his son a light push.

Wills ran out singing.

Elizabeth smiled. She shut the doors about halfway before leaving.

A few moments later, Will walked into the dining room. He smelled the air. "It all smells so good," he noted.

Elizabeth came from behind him. She turned his head to kiss him.

Wills walked back in with a plate, cup, knife, fork, and spoon. He set that next to him.

"Wills, I already got that," said Elizabeth.

"You forgot someone," Wills told her.

"No, we have three, one for you, me, and your father," said Elizabeth, looking over everything again.

"You forgot grandfather," said Wills as he began to walk to the window.

"He won't come. He wants this to be my one day," Will told him.

Wills didn't care. "Grandfather! Breakfast is ready!" he hollered as loud as he could towards the Dutchman.

"No need to shout lad. I'm right here."

Wills jumped as he turned.

Bill was sitting in a chair, his feet crossed on the footstool, peering over a book.

"I didn't see you come in," noted Elizabeth.

"That's because you were sleeping or doing something else when I arrived at sunrise," said Bill, turning a page. "And, Will, not even your one day can keep me from Elizabeth's cooking."

"Come on," said Wills, taking his grandfather's hand and looking at him with big brown eyes.

"Don't look at me like that," said Bill. "It's your father's decision."

"I don't have a choice," said Will.

"No you don't," said Bill with a sly smile as he took Wills's hand and went to sit down.

"According to him nothing can have a higher rank than father, not even if I am captain and he is first mate," said Will.

"Well, I do have to agree with him though. You still are his son," noted Elizabeth.

"So, what are we eating?" asked Will as he sat down.

"Blueberry, banana muffins, toast, fresh fruit, and juice," replied Elizabeth.

"Bananas," said Will snatching every last banana on the fruit tray. He placed them in his lap and looked around at them.

"This is all made fresh this morning," added Elizabeth.

"How long have you been awake? It's just half past eight," noted Will.

"I would say she's been awake since quarter after seven," said Bill.

"I couldn't sleep so I watched you sleep then made breakfast," said Elizabeth.

"The crew was requesting they be invited for lunch," said Bill.

"So they liked the table scraps," noted Elizabeth.

"There was a tournament for the last biscuit," said Bill.

"Who won?" asked Will.

"Maccus," replied Bill.

"He is good," admitted Will. "I'll give him that."

"I'm done," Wills announced, slamming cup on the table upside down.

"Where did you learn how to do that?" wondered Bill.

"I don't know. He's done that his entire life," said Elizabeth.

"What shall we do today?" asked Will.

"Play pirate, play on the beach, to swimming, build sand castles, play chase, and tell me more stories!" shouted Wills.

"William," said Elizabeth in a displeased tone.

"Sorry Mum," said Wills.

"Wot'd he do?" asked Will.

"Mum doesn't like it when I shout while we eat," said Wills.

"I don't care," Will told him.

"You're the best father in the whole world!" shouted Wills, running to him. He sat in his lap.

"And you're the best son in the whole world," said Will.

"Second best," corrected Bill with a soft smile.

Will glanced at him with a smile.

"I should probably get back to the ship," said Bill as he stood.

"Wait a moment," said Elizabeth as she let her hand on his shoulder. She ran into the kitchen then came back. All the extra food was set into a basket. She placed the juice into a large pitcher before setting that in the basket as well. "Give this to the men. Even they deserve one day of real life."

Bill nodded then walked out.

"Daddy," began Wills.

"Aye, son," said Will.

"Race you to the beach!" shouted Wills as he took off.

Will smiled and chased after him leaving Elizabeth behind to clean up the mess.

"Go, I'll take care of this," said Thomas, poking his head from the kitchen doorway.

Elizabeth walked down to the beach finding the Wills already splashing about in the water. "Boys, it's too early to be getting wet," she said.

"Not it's not," said Wills, splashing her a bit.

Elizabeth dodged the splash.

Will laughed as he stood ankle deep in the water, touching both land and sea.

"FOOD!"

Will turned to the Dutchman, seeing the ship rock to the side of the dock and everyone run. He laughed wondering who was going to be gifted enough to have the last bite this time.

"You wouldn't think how much someone can miss having sand beneath their feet and between their toes," he said.

"You don't know how much I've missed being at sea," said Elizabeth.

"Missed the sea or me?" asked Will going to her. His reply was a gentle kiss.

"Daddy, does my ship float like the real Black Pearl?" asked Wills.

Will shrugged. "I never tried it."

"Can we?" wondered Wills.

Will nodded. "But this is the last time we leave the beach." He knelt. "Climb on."

"Really Daddy?" wondered Wills.

"Come on," said Will.

Wills jumped on his father's back and swung his arms around his neck.

Will reached under his son's knees then walked back with Wills laughing the entire way.

Elizabeth watched them. She tightened her red sash then touched the key around her neck. It was very early in the day still, but she wanted to cry. Half the time with Will was over. He would be gone for another ten long years at sunset. Wills was going to have to wait again just to play with his father. By then he was going to be nineteen and a full-grown man. As laughter approached she shook it off.

Both Wills knelt in the sand. Will quickly showed his son how to set everything in its proper place. He went knee deep in the water then gently set the ship down.

"It floats Daddy. It really floats!" cried Wills, running in the water. He pushed his ship around.

All three soon began playing on the Pearl in the water. By their son's request, Will and Elizabeth were themselves and they had to get married again.

"Was it really like that?" wondered Wills.

"But more exciting," added Elizabeth.

Wills laughed. He had sudden chills consume him. He shivered a bit.

"Wills, you're shivering. Your lips are turning blue," noted Will.

Wills shook his head. "No they're not. I'm fine," he told them.

"Wills, you're freezing. You're going to catch a cough," said Elizabeth.

"I'm fine Mum," said Wills, playing more.

Will set his hand under his son's chin. He raised his head to find his son's lips did have a tint of blue to them and he was lightly shivering. Wills forced a smile.

"Come on son, you're mother is right. It's too early to be in the water," said Will, lifting the ship.

"But I want to play with my ship," protested Wills.

Will shook his head. He sat the ship in the shade of the cliffs.

Wills climbed on the dock and began walking to the end.

"Where are you going?" asked Elizabeth.

"If I can't play with my ship then I'll play with daddy's ship," said Wills.

"Your father's ship is not a toy," said Elizabeth.

"Since when?" asked Will going to her side then added. "Besides, he is my son."

Wills climbed over the rail. He fell on deck, losing his balance then stood like nothing happened. He smiled at the crew who looked at him oddly.

Orion, in a great, sniffing fuss, came to Wills's rescue and began liking his face. The moment Will stepped onto the ship, he rushed on over to his master and hopped his front paws in the air and began running around Will.

"Did you miss me?" he asked, rubbing his dog's body.

"He whined the entire night," Edward told him.

Wills looked around with wide eyes and his mouth open.

"Want to meet my crew?" asked Will, shaking him.

Wills nodded.

Elizabeth came onto deck. She brushed herself off.

Everyone immediately stood. They began cleaning around them, wiped their clothes, and combed their fingers through their hair.

"I told them you were Pirate King," said Will.

Wills began walking around. He was soon taken to a world he had only known in his stories.

"Captain, who's the boy?" asked Skully.

"Will Turner. Call me Wills," replied Wills.

They stared at the boy.

"William, what are you doing on your ship? You should be on land not here," said Bill, coming from the hold.

"I wanted to play with Daddy 's ship," said Wills. He ran to the rigging and jumped to reach it.

"You're not going up there," said Elizabeth.

"Daddy did," Wills said, jumping higher.

Will laughed as he lifted his son.

"What are you doing!" shouted Elizabeth, pulling him down. "He is not going up there."

Wills ran to the helm.

Will followed to find him at the wheel on his toes trying to see over it. He lifted his son up.

"Now I'm captain," laughed Wills. He squirmed out of his father's arms and began running all over, pulling at ropes, knocking barrels over, and causing chaos.

"He's worse than the monkey," said Edward.

"'Jack' the Monkey?" asked Wills. Half the crew nodded.

Will took his hand. "Come, I want to show you something." He led him to his cabin. Wills immediately ran to a stack of piled papers off to the side. Will ran after him. "Don't touch those."

"Why?" asked Wills.

"Because they are very important," replied Will.

"Why?" asked Wills again.

"They are records, dates, and information of all those who have been brought on this ship," replied Will.

Wills nodded. He climbed on the table and took a pen and piece of paper.

Elizabeth came in. She looked around seeing how beautiful it really was. She looked down at Wills. He was still busy scribbling at the paper.

"What are you doing Wills?" she asked.

"You'll see," said Wills.

Elizabeth glanced at Will. He shrugged.

Wills jumped off the table and ran to his father. "Now you have the records, date, and information about me and Mum so you don't have to do it yourself."

Will took the paper. He looked at the messy handwriting with frightened eyes. "I hope I never have to." He looked at Elizabeth.

She shrugged. After all, their son was only nine.

Will set the paper down not wanting to do with the thought of it.

"Daddy, where do you sleep?" asked Wills.

Will set his hand across his son's shoulder. He took him through a door off to the right. It wasn't a big room, but it was cozy. There was a small, unmade cot, a flat pillow, a few blankets, a small table, a messy shelf occupied of folded and unfolded charts, a window, and another door.

Wills went to the other door.

"Go on," said Will.

Wills went through the other door and down the stairs into a large chamber. He looked at the wall of shelves complete of carvings. His eyes then fell upon the organ. He rushed over to it and just stood there, gazing upon it.

Will came from behind him. He touched a key and let it ring.

Wills jumped as the sound echoed. He looked at his father then began pushing random keys. Before long, he began banging on them. Will joined. The random notes from both echoed in the chamber and carried around the ship. They even echoed off the cliffs.

Will grabbed his son and squeezed him in his arms. Wills laughed.

"Nice playing son. I believe it's your greatest work," noted Bill with a laugh.

"I helped," said Wills. He pointed to the two paintings that hung on the wall. "Who are all of them?"

"That's my family," Will told him.

"But I thought Mum and I were your family," Wills said.

"These are my relatives that live in London," Will said. He pointed to the faces and told his son their names.

"Oh, Seastone, I know them. I know Alexander. He came here last year," Wills said.

Will whipped around to Elizabeth. "Alex was here and you never told me?"

"I didn't see the point. He was only here to restock and to check on us," replied Elizabeth.

"It was him and Christian I think his name was. They were on business," said Wills as he walked to the shelves of sea turtles.

"You already have a pair or sea turtles," said Will.

Wills shook his head. "You don't."

"I have two pairs of sea turtles," said Will with a smile.

"But I want you and I to have our own. That way when we're together so will the sea turtles," Wills told him. "Besides, a pair of sea turtles can bring me anywhere." He handed Will a sea turtle.

"That one doesn't have its match," said Will. Upset, Wills slumped. "But I will carve us a pair if you want." Wills handed him two blocks. "Not now."

"Daddy, why do you have that?" asked Wills, pointing at the wooden carving on the ledge above the keyboard.

Will brought the chest to the table.

"Is that what I think that is?" wondered Elizabeth.

"The chest with your heart!" Wills shouted, opening it. He seemed disappointed to find just sand in it.

"I don't set foot on land much anymore so I made this chest and put sand in it as a reminder. The Dead Man's Chest holds my heart and this chest holds land," Will told him.

Wills lifted his finger through it. He shut it then stood. He lifted it into his arms. It was a bit too heavy for him though. In three steps, he tripped over his feet and fell.

Will hopped on the table out of habit.

"No!" cried Bill as the sand fell all over. He smacked his hand to his forehead and shook his head.

"Sorry," said Wills as he was being brushed off by his mother.

"Are you all right?" asked Will.

Wills nodded then turned to Bill. "Do you have your own room too?"

"It's across your father's," said Bill as he scooped handfuls of sand from the floor.

"You have all day to clean it at least," said Elizabeth.

"He told you didn't he?" wondered Bill. Elizabeth nodded. "You managed to keep that in there for nearly of a decade then your son drops it and it bloody falls everywhere."

"He's only nine years old. He doesn't know much," said Will.

Bill sighed. "Where did he go now?"

"I think he went to your room," said Elizabeth.

Will and Bill looked at each other with the same thought.

Little Wills sat on the floor of his grandfather's room. He pulled another book from the shelf. Boring. And another. Too long. And another. Too small of words. And another. Not in English or French or Latin. He reached for one on the top shelf. His finger tips reached it. Along with that one, ten more toppled on top of him. He rubbed his head then fumbled for the one he wanted.

"Legends of the Sea," he read aloud.

Setting that in a different pile, he picked up another one. Not English again. Grabbing another book, he threw that one aside.

"Under the Black Colors."

His eyes widened. It was his favorite book in the world. Elizabeth read that to him so many times. He knew by heart but still loved it.

"In God's name, William, what do you think you're doing?" asked Bill. He looked at all of his books lying on the floor.

"Reading," replied Wills casually as he laid on his belly and a few books.

Will and Elizabeth walked in.

"It smells wonderful in here," noted Elizabeth, gazing at all the books. "I always knew you were a calm pirate, but I admit I didn't know pirates could be satisfied with books."

"Grandfather, what language is this?" asked Wills, pointing out a book.

"It's German," replied Bill, beginning to put his books back.

"And these?"

"Greek and Spanish."

"Where did you learn so many?" wondered Wills, curious.

"My father taught me German and Spanish. The crew taught me Greek," replied Bill, setting his books in their place.

"What about this one?" asked Wills, holding up an old, tattered book with discolored pages.

Bill snatched that one immediately. "This was my favorite book when I was boy. I remember my mother reading to me at night and my father telling the tales. It's the only thing I have left of them."

"What is it?" wondered Wills.

"A book of Celtic legends, tales, and myths of Scotland and Ireland. It's in Gaelic lad," said Bill.

"Gaelic?" wondered Wills.

"It's my native language. You see my father was a pure Scot and my mother was half Irish and Scottish. Gaelic was my first language along with English. I was taught the two side by side. I taught that to your grandmother a very long time ago," said Bill softly. His eyes misted over with tears as his mind filled with lost memories.

"You've never mentioned that to me," noted Will.

"Does Jack know?" wondered Elizabeth.

"Aye, that's why he knew me as William. We became friends quickly," said Bill. He seemed to snap out of his trance. "Get out of here lad. Go play with your father on the beach. You've never known him and the day is slipping away. You don't want to know about my past. Trust me, it's rough." He began pushing Will from the room. "Get out of here Will. Today is your day. If I see you on the ship before sundown, I'm sending you to the Locker myself."

Will laughed as he nodded. He led his wife and son from the room, but did notice his father opening the book. Before leaving his cabin, Will grabbed a folded black cloth.

"A round Captain?" asked Edward, beginning a new game of Liar's Dice.

"I've been ordered from my ship by my father," said Will.

"He's taken on the roll as captain more than you," noted Edward.

"Yet it's my heart in that chest. I'm the one that is cursed," said Will with a heavy sigh.

"So is your father Will," said Elizabeth, letting her arms around him.

Wills begged him. "Come on Daddy. Let's go," he pleaded.

Not long over an hour, a huge sand castle that looked more like a Shipwreck Cove, two large sea turtles, and a chest were sitting on the beach.

"You are very talented Will. It's a shame you can no longer work as a blacksmith. Your work would be beautiful," said Elizabeth, pulling a few loose curls dangling from Will's head.

"Daddy, why does grandfather like books so much?" asked Wills.

"I don't know. He's the most civilized pirate I've ever known," said Will, burying his legs in sand again.

Wills took and handful of sand. He threw it in the sky. It fell all around him.

Elizabeth laughed. "Wills, not on you," she told him then threw a handful at Will's head.

Will turned and began throwing sand at them.

The three Turners kicked and threw sand at each other. Their laughter was loud and carefree. Will suddenly took Elizabeth into his arms. He ran waist deep into the water.

"Will, no!" she screamed as she was thrown in.

"Me next Daddy. Me next!" shouted Wills.

Will grabbed him and did the same to his son. He stood on the sand laughing at them.

Elizabeth came to him. She pushed him in the water.

Will reached up and pulled her in again. She fell on top of him with a scream.

"Will," she said playfully as she began splashing him.

Wills splashed back as did Wills. Both Wills and Elizabeth began splashing Will. He laughed and put his hands to his face as water got into his eyes. He retaliated by pushing them both down. Wills was thrown into the water again and d Elizabeth was dropped. She pulled at her husband's ankle. Will fell face forward into the sand, eating a few grains. There was roaring laughter from the ship. Ignoring them, he rolled around in the sand, getting it everywhere. He stood with a sand coated body, not caring at all. The laughter was twice as loud now.

"Daddy's a sand monster," laughed Wills.

Elizabeth screamed and hid behind Wills.

Will ran back in. He pulled his wife in for a quick kiss. That kiss was longer than quick, much longer.

"Daddy, stop kissing Mum," whined Wills, splashing them.

Will and Elizabeth sent a wave of water on top of him. That toppled him over. They stopped kissing to help Wills to his feet. Wills, not happy with his parents, glared at them.

Will returned the glare. He moved closer until he grabbed his son's sides. He began tickling Wills again.

Laughing and screaming, Wills squirmed around in the sand.

Elizabeth joined her husband.

After a few minutes, Will turned on Elizabeth. She was now enduring tickle torture from her husband and son. Not able to move due to being pinned, she laughed in the sand. Will took one of her bare feet. He ran his finger up the middle. She burst into harder laughter, pleading for him to stop. She finally managed to take both of their necklaces and pulled on them.

"Very funny Will," she noted, catching her breath. She stood and wiped her body before she became the sand monster. "How is it you managed to escape that?"

"I'm Captain Will Turner," Will told them proudly with his back straight and tall, head held high and arms out much like Jack Sparrow.

"It think becoming captain has made you act very much like Jack," noted Elizabeth.

"Oh really? That's something then," said Will.

Elizabeth nodded again as she stepped closer to him then whispered in his ear. "So does knowing where you're ticklish." She ran her finger up the neck.

Will flinched as he moved away from her.

Wills quietly came behind him and pushed his daddy closer to Elizabeth.

She pulled at the key, keeping him close to her while ticking the back of his neck. Finally in her grasp, Will was unable to move. He was now at the mercy of the Pirate King and Prince. He tripped while trying to escape their hands. He rolled in the sand laughing more freely and alive than he had ever done.

Elizabeth loved that sound. His laughter always brought light to her dark moments.

On the Dutchman, Bill Turner stood at the helm watching the scene play out through the spyglass. He couldn't help but to laugh himself. He watched as his son rolled around whole being tickles by four hands.

"Are you spying on them?" asked Edward.

"No, I am simply admiring the cliffs and their beauty," Bill said after a moment.

Edward looked at the angle of the spyglass and laughed. "You are spying on them."

"I'm simply observing his condition," said Bill. "He seems happy."

Edward laughed a little more. "What is the difference? You're still spying on him."

Still watching his son, Bill raised a finger and said. "Observing."

"All right. I understand. Stop, please! Elizabeth, I won't do it again!" Will hollered among his sweet laughter.

Satisfied, Elizabeth smiled innocently.

Will wiped his eyes.

"Daddy, that was fun," said Wills.

Will shook his body. Sand flew everywhere. "Now what?"

"I don't know Daddy. What do you want to do?" asked Wills.

"I don't know. What do you want to do?" Will asked.

Wills shrugged. "What do you want to do?"

"No, I'm asking you what you want to do."

"I don't care. Whatever you want I'll do too."

"I don't know. What do you want to do?"

"I told you I don't care. What do you want to do?"

"I don't know much about you so what do you want to do?"

"I don't know. I do want to do something with you though."

"Okay, so what do you want to do?"

"I don't know. What do you want to do?"

"Whatever you want us to do I'll do."

"What should we do then?"

"I don't know. What do you want to do?"

"I don't know. What do you want to do?"

"Wills, Will, shut it," laughed Elizabeth, hysterically.

She was clutching her sides. Tears from laughter rolled down her cheeks. Her body trembled horribly from laughter. Her legs wobbled as she could barely stand on them.

Will set his hands on her shoulders to steady her body while she attempted to breathe.

"You two are so much fun together. Respecting Calypso, but I think Wills and I are just going to have to sail on the Pearl with Jack so we can see you more often," said Elizabeth.

"That's what I want to do!" cried Wills.

Elizabeth burst out laughing again. This time, Will had to tell her how to breathe to get her to breathe normal again.

"Other than going sailing with Jack what do you want to do?" asked Will.

Wills shrugged. "I don't know. What do you want to do?"

"I don't know."

"I don't know too. What do you want to do?"

"I don't—Wills, don't start that again," said Will, catching himself.

"It's something to do," said Wills.

"Well, I know I could go eat lunch. All this laughing is making me hungry," Elizabeth told him.

"Okay, let's do that," agreed Wills.

Will nodded as he took his hand.

Elizabeth walked to the manor with her hands still on her sides.

The three Turners ate fresh sandwiches and salads for lunch with cider to drink. They sat in the parlor. Elizabeth's heart had finally slowed to normal and her sides no longer caused her horrible pain, and the two Wills finally found something to do.

"Am I interrupting?" asked Thomas as he poked his head through the doorway.

Will shook his head. "Not at all. Come join us."

"You haven't changed since that last time I saw you," noted Thomas.

"I'm never going to change. I'll always be twenty-two," said Will.

"You know my daddy too?" asked Wills.

"Yes, I've known him for as long as your mother. I was there when we rescued him," said Thomas. He turned to Will. "William, your carvings are absolutely amazing."

Will smiled. "Thank you."

"Your swords are flawless as well," added Thomas.

"You own one of my swords?" asked Will.

Elizabeth smiled. "Not exactly. Jack also brought three swords and a knife for us along with new weapons for the crew. Apparently there is an unmistakable difference between your swords and the new ones. Yours were the best."

"I wish I could have a smithy on the ship. Father would enjoy that much better and so would I. Pounding on metal is the best way to relieve any anger and stress," said Will.

"Can I tell him?" asked Wills with a proud smile.

Elizabeth nodded. "Go on. Tell Daddy what you'll be doing soon."

Will looked at his son most curious.

"I'm going to be a blacksmith's apprentice!" Wills shouted proudly.

A very proud smile widened across Will's face.

"Samuel Woods, the blacksmith in town, was looking for young boys around ten years old and with a strong arm and artistic talent of any kind. His own son, Alexander, didn't have his heart set on a blacksmith. Since Alex is our son's best friend, he told his father. Samuel thought Wills was a bit young but gave him a try anyway. When it was all said and done, Wills was chosen," explained Elizabeth.

Wills ran to the mantle. He reached for a small metal object. He ran back to his father, handing him the beginnings of a blade.

"You made this?" asked Will impressed as he looked it over. It was nearly flat and straight with a few places of unevenness. For the most part, it was incredible for a nine year old.

"What do you think?" asked Wills unsure.

"You are going to be a great blacksmith, better than I ever was," said Will. He pulled his son into a huge hug.

Wills handed the piece of metal to his father. "Here, you keep it."

"That reminds me," said Will to himself.

He took the folded black cloth from his sash and handed it to his son.

Wills unfolded it. His eyes widened. It was the Black Pearl's colors, a bit stitched, torn, weathered, beaten, and faded.

"Is that the Pearl's?" asked Elizabeth.

Will nodded. "The same ones that you ordered to hoist in the last great battle. The same colors that flew high and proud after our victory."

Elizabeth delicately touched the flag. Memories filled heart. She pressed the cloth to her face, breathing in the salty sea air.

"These are your colors now Wills," said Will.

"What about you?" wondered Wills.

Will wrapped the flag around his son like a blanket. "I need none. Besides, every great pirate captain needs their own."

Calmly, Wills gazed at the flag. He felt like a great hero or someone of great importance to the world. He felt as great as his father.

"Did you really practice three hours a day?" he asked, completely changing the subject.

"What?" wondered Will. He thought a moment then caught on. "Oh, of course. If I ever was to meet a pirate I could kill it. Little did I know then."

"Can you teach me now?" asked Wills.

"Well then, let's get started. Elizabeth, where can we find two swords?" said Will.

Wills gave him a tight hug.

"He has some in his room," said Elizabeth.

Wills raced to his room and came back with two wooden swords.

Will shook his head. "Where are the ones Jack gave to you?"

"Will, no. He is not using a real sword. He's nine. Something could happen," said Elizabeth.

Will took her into his arms, playfully kissing her. "I won't hurt him and he can't hurt me no matter how badly he tries. You should know that. He's our son. He deserves to begin his sword lessons with a real one. What do you say Elizabeth?"

"Please Mum," pleaded Wills

Elizabeth shut her eyes. "Oh, fine. I'll go get them."

She was kissed by both her Wills. Still not approving this at all, she slowly left and return with the swords.

"Be very careful," she said, handing Wills his.

Wills took the sword very gently. He pulled it a little ways from the scabbard to see the blade shine.

Will looked at him proudly.

"Jack said you needed a replacement of the one you own now and I think this one should be yours. It's not balanced well enough for me because it's a little heavy," said Elizabeth.

Will took his sword. He fully removed the blade. A smile. This one and two others were the last ones he ever made. His eyes fell on the etching at the beginning of the blade. Will Turner. It was perfectly balanced for him. It looked much like the one he crafted for Norrington. He took Elizabeth's sword. Elizabeth Turner.

"Why didn't you ever tell me?"

"It was to be your wedding gift," said Will.

"Jack sends his immortal thanks. It's just the right balance and weight. The sparrow under his name gives it just the right touch," said Elizabeth.

"It didn't feel right not making him one," said Will, pulling her close into a kiss.

"Daddy," began Wills.

"I know, I know. Stop kissing Mum. You look like her and have her temper," said Will. Elizabeth playfully smacked his arm. Will stood. "All right, let's go to the beach. This could become a bit deadly and I don't wish to get blamed for breaking something."

"I'll be down soon. I'm going to change into more suitable clothes," Elizabeth told them.

Wills ran out with Will following close.

She went to her room and changed into her boots and breeches. She pulled her hair back with a blue ribbon. Before leaving the manor, she stepped onto the veranda. Her eyes fell upon Will showing his son properly how to hold a sword. She smiled gently. Her mind fled back to times. Less than eight hours left.

"Elizabeth," called a voice softly.

She turned. "Bill, what are you doing here?"

"Can you spare a few minutes?" asked Bill, moving closer. She nodded. "I want you and I to make something of the sand for him. I want you to make him a jar of sand and fill this with the softest sand on your beach." He handed her the empty wooden chest.

Laughter tore his eyes from her. He gazed at his son with a gentle smile. His own eyes teared and heart ached for him.

Elizabeth noticed. "You love him more than anything don't you?"

Bill nodded. "I never wanted this for him. I never wanted this life for him. Richard was right. It was right of him to keep Will away from me."

"You didn't leave?" asked Elizabeth.

"No, Richard threw me from Will's life when he was three. He wanted nothing to do with piracy for her son. He wanted Will to grow up happy and normal."

"He was telling me about that."

Elizabeth saw the sadness and pain in his eyes as he watched his son and grandson play. She gently set her arms around him. She kissed him on the cheek.

Bill gently took her hand.

"Thank you for everything you're done for him in the last ten years. You're a wonderful father," said Elizabeth.

"And you, Elizabeth, are a wonderful daughter. I would imagine my own daughter to have been like you," Bill told her.

With a smile on her face, Elizabeth walked along the beach to her husband and son.

"Mum, look what I can do," said Wills.

He raised his sword then swung down Will blocked then gently swung. Wills pun to dive it and his blade came across his father's arm. It cut deeply into Will's arm.

Both Elizabeth and Wills screamed.

"Daddy!" cried Wills, dropping his sword. He looked at the tear on his father's tunic. "Oh no, I hurt Daddy. I cut my daddy."

He began sobbing as he ran away from him.

"No, Wills, I'm fine. You didn't cut me," said Will, reaching for his son's arms.

"Yes I did. I hurt you. I'm never going to touch a sword again," sobbed Wills.

Will ripped his tunic a little more. "See, no blood or cut. You just got the sleeve," he told him.

Wills sniffled as he touched his father's arm. No blood. No cut. He nodded.

Will pulled him into his arms. He rolled his eyes as he rubbed his son's back. "You know I am immortal," he reminded.

Elizabeth nodded coming from her mind. "I know that. I remember."

"It's okay Wills," whispered Will as his son squeezed him tighter.

Wills let out a deep breath. He pulled away to glance at his father's arm again.

"I did the same thing to your father when he was teaching me how to swordfight," said Elizabeth.

"Really?" wondered Wills.

"She just scratched my arm, though she acted like she cut it off," said Will.

"You know how to fight too?" asked Wills.

Elizabeth appeared almost insulted. "Of course I do."

"Show me," said Wills.

"Aye, what do you remember my love?" asked Will.

"I do practice sometimes when I have the chance. I faced Captain Sparrow," said Elizabeth.

Will stepped back three paces. "Let's just see."

Elizabeth nodded and drew her sword. She stood in front of him.

Wills watched with wonder as his parents circled each other.

"Your move your majesty," said Will.

"Please. A queen before king," said Elizabeth.

"If you insist," said Will as he gently swung.

Gentle wore off quickly. For having no moving target but once with Jack, Elizabeth was as still very good after ten years. They danced around each other, swinging and blocking much like they had done ten years ago. Suddenly, with both swords meeting each other over the top of their heads, Will and Elizabeth froze. They gazed at each other. Elizabeth breathed hard. Will breathed normal. A single memory filled them. A ten year old memory. A memory of their wedding. Will leaned in for a kiss. Elizabeth's sword dropped from her hand. Their forehead's touched.

"I do," whispered Will, lovingly as he traced her jaw line with his forefinger.

"I do," whispered Elizabeth.

Will wrapped his arms around her. He pulled her close and just held her.

"That was amazing," said Wills, in awe.

Both looked at him and did not leave each other's arms. They never wanted to.

"I'm going to practice four hours a day," declared Wills, picking up his sword. He swung around and spun like a great hero. He turned and his blade slammed into his father's, giving him a start.

"You'll be the most feared and admired pirate on the seas. Who wouldn't fear you?" said Will proudly.

Wills smiled. "No one."

They sheathed their swords

Will dived under the water to cool down. He swam around and was soon accompanied by Wills. Will pulled his son's wet hair back.

"Stay here. Don't worry about me," he told him.

He dived under again, but did not come back up.

Wills looked all over. He had to come back soon. No one could hold their breath that long.

Even Elizabeth tensed. She stepped into the water.

"Mum," said Wills worried.

"He'll be fine," said Elizabeth, forcing a smile.

Minutes passed. Will had not returned.

"Daddy," called Wills worried. He heart raced. It beat in his throat and feet. Where was he? "Daddy!" he called again with a hoarse voice.

"You can come back Will," said Elizabeth to the water.

Wills screamed as something grabbed his ankle.

Will surfaced and laughed.

"Daddy!" Wills cried, throwing his arms around him.

"Will," whispered Elizabeth with a heavy sigh.

Will seemed confused. "Both of you do know that I am immortal?" he asked again.

"But you were underwater for hours," said Wills.

"Probably a little over five minutes," corrected Will as he set something in Wills's and Elizabeth's hands.

Both held beautiful, large shells

"Oh, Will," gasped Elizabeth as she held up the largest pearl she had ever seen in her life. It was a black pearl. A few more fell from the inside. A total of fifteen pearls were in her hands.

"Are these real?" asked Wills, as a handful of shark teeth fell into his hand. Will nodded. "Where did you find these?"

"At the bottom of the ocean of course and of a spot I know," replied Will then added. "That's not all." He held a large, pearl white conch in his hand. He blew into it. Out came a pure note of the sea. He handed it to Wills.

Wills gave it a try. No bad, but it needed work.

Will pulled another from underwater. It was a light coral color. Inside were many different pearls of all color, but mostly black. He handed that to Elizabeth of course.

She looked at her treasures then flung her arms around Will.

Looking at them kissing again, Wills blew into his conch as loud as he could. His parents looked at him. He shrugged and smiled innocently.

"I'm going to put this on the Pearl," he told them. Will looked at him strangely. "Come with me Daddy."

Wills led him to a massive tree with long, swaying, drooping leaves. They climbed the trunk and came to a small wooden platform. On top was a compass, spyglass, and map. Will glanced up to find a small, homemade flag blowing in the wind. It was just like the Black Pearl's colors.

"Is this your ship Wills," asked Will.

"When I can't go to sea yes," said Wills, setting the conch on a chair. He pulled a map from the small shelf then handed it to Will. "These are all the places I want to sail to."

Will looked at them. Port Royal. Tortuga. Ireland. London. Gold Coast. Madagascar. India. Japan. Antarctica. Terra del Fuego. Bermuda Triangle. World's End. Wills had even charted a course to each by direct route or stopping at a few along the way.

"What do you want to go to World's End?" asked Will curious.

Wills shrugged. "It would make a great adventure."

"There's nothing there," Will told him.

"How do you know?" asked Wills, looking at him.

"I was there once. When we rescued Jack in fact," said Will.

Wills sat next to his father on the wood. "Really? What was it like?"

"Well, it was different. There is no living person there so it is very quiet. A sunset there is a sunset here, because up is down. Everything is opposite. At night the stars shine from the sky and sea. It seems like I'm sailing on the stars. It is beautiful though. Most of all it's lonely. You see, I just have my crew and any souls we must ferry. Sometimes, it can be very boring. Rather, it's always boring. That's why I've made so many carvings. I'm considering learning a different language form my father or writing a book of my own. World's End is nothing like here. This world is nothing like the other," explained Will, lost in thought.

"If you were only there once then why do you keep saying 'is' and not 'was'?" asked Wills, seeing more than what was being told.

Will looked at him. Great. Now he's really done it. He quickly thought of an excuse. "I see it in my dreams quite a lot so it feels like I've been there many times," said Will.

"I brought lemonade for the two of you," said Elizabeth.

Wills threw down a small crate attached to a rope. He raised the crate as Elizabeth climbed the tree trunk.

"You need a ladder," she noted.

"I was thinking about borrowing rigging," said Wills.

"Where do you plan to get this?" asked Elizabeth.

"Taking it from a ship in port," replied Wills. Elizabeth shook her head. "I'll give it back when they come back so I'll just borrow without permission."

"You've met Jack once and already you've acting like him," said Elizabeth.

Will laughed silently to himself as he took the compass. For curiosity matters, he opened it then spun it all around. It always pointed north.

"Since I'm getting sword lessons can I keep my sword?" asked Wills.

"Of course you can," said Will.

"Absolutely not," said Elizabeth. Both looked at her. "Wait until you know how to use one bore better than now and when you are older."

"Now that Daddy's home forever, he can teach me for hours every day and we can go sailing on my adventure together. Daddy, you will teach me tomorrow night won't you?" said Wills happily.

Will said nothing. He looked at Elizabeth.

She shook her head sadly.

Will painfully shut his eyes. He slumped. How does one tell his son there will be no tomorrow, but instead, another ten years of separation? He set his hand on his son's head.

"Wills, I'm not going to be here tomorrow," he said softly.

Wills shrugged. "Oh well, you can teach me the day after then."

Will shook his head. "I won't be back the day after either. Wills, come sunset I won't be back. I told you this already."

"What? Of course you will. You're home now," said Wills. He looked at his mother. "Mum."

Elizabeth scooted beside Will. "He's right Wills," she whispered, tucking her hear behind her ear.

Wills gazed at his father with moist, confused eyes.

Will looked at him and began. "It is part of the curse Wills. I must spend the years at sea then I get one day on land. After tonight, I can no longer step on land. I can't be on land. I must return to the sea and continue my duty for ten more years then I'll come back."

Wills shook his head, not wanting to believe it. "But, it's been ten years already."

"Every ten years Wills. One day every ten years I'll come back."

"Why though?"

"I told you, it's part of the curse."

"Why is your duty so important?"

"I ferry souls of those who have died at sea to the other world. They need help finding their way. Being captain of the Flying Dutchman, it is my duty, and mine alone to do so. That's why I get one day every ten years."

"Can you just stop and stay here? Why can't someone else just do it?"

"It's my heart in the chest. I was made captain. This is my curse. It I stop then I'll turn into Davy Jones and I still won't be able to step on land. Someone else doing it means stabbing my heart and killing me to replace everything."

"Then let me come with you," pleaded Wills, clinging to him.

"You can't. You aren't dying. The only way to come with me is to join my crew and the only way to do that is to be dying at sea," Will told him.

Elizabeth gently rubbed her son's back. She glanced at Will, seeing the pain in his eyes.

Will softly added, "I have until sunset."

"That's only a few hours away. It's almost time for dinner," said Wills.

"Then we must not talk and do something together while I'm still here," said Will, drying his son's eyes.

Wills nodded. "Can you tell me a story?"

"As long as I can sit on the beach," agreed Will.

They climbed down then sat in the sand. Will told his son about the time when he frightened his father by appearing that he stepped on land. Then, he explained, attempted to explain, why he couldn't step on land.

"Oh, that's why Grandfather was angry when I spilled the sand," noted Wills with a laugh.

"Aye, that's why. He also hates when I played with the sand when it was in the chest. Every time we supply the ship, he inspects everything and everyone before going on deck. Even then he inspects the deck. Not surprisingly, he has a sixth sense for sand because one tiny grain of sand could change the world," said Will. Wills threw sand at him. "It won't work now. It's my one day."

Wills nodded, but threw more sand at Will.

Laughing, Will did the same. He grabbed his son then swung him in the air a few times.

"Dinner is ready," called Thomas.

Wills's eyes suddenly lit with fear. His smile faded. His eyes slowly turned to the horizon. The sun was lowering.

The Turners quickly ate enough only to satisfy themselves. The rest, and most of the food in the manor, was packed into large sacks. Unfortunately, all the bananas were gone and Will had a particular liking for bananas. He ate them all that morning and last night. Elizabeth ran to her room and around the manor packing another sack. She, Will, and Thomas brought them to the dock.

The crew looked over the side.

"Are those for us?" asked Skully.

Will nodded. "Real food that will last until we eat it all." He began handing them up.

"These are for you two," said Elizabeth as she handed Bill two sacks. "This one is for Will." She handed him one sack that was slightly smaller.

"This should be enough to last ten more long years. Will, I still say we should come here every night for dinner. Ten years is a long time from her cooking especially those muffins. We played a game for the last one," said Bill.

"Who won?" asked Will.

"Sharkface," replied Bill.

"Who?" asked Elizabeth.

"Maccus," said Will.

"You mean it's really once every ten years?" asked Wills.

Bill nodded sadly. "Unfortunately, yes. Now it's back to carvings and cleaning sand and waiting for another ten to pass. You'll be nineteen the next time I see you Wills."

"No!" screamed Wills, understanding completely now. "It can't be ten years. It's not true. It's just a legend. It's not true. It can't be."

He ran across the dock as he cried.

"Wills!" called Will, running after him.

Wills ran as fast as he could, ignoring his father. Maybe if he ran fast enough he could run away from the truth. Maybe he would wake up.

"Wills, come back. Wills," called Will as he ran faster. He caught up to his son. "William, come here." He pulled Wills against him.

"Let me go Daddy. Please. I want to run away from everything. It's not true. You're not leaving me. Don't leave me. Let go," sobbed Wills as he struggled to free himself from his father's grasp.

Will hushed him as he pulled his son closer. He rocked back and forth as he kissed his son's head. Not able to control it, Wills stopped. He threw his arms around his father's neck, wailing into his shoulder.

"It's all right. It's all right. I'm here Wills. I'm right here," whispered Will, holding him tighter. He shut his eyes. Realization dawning on him, he sighed as a few tears rolled down his cheeks. This was going to be one of the last few times he could hold his son in years.

Elizabeth knelt beside him. She gently wrapped her arms around both of them.

Later, all three sat in the sand, listening to the sea roll in and out and watching the horizon. A warm orange glow was upon the sand. Their shadows were behind them. Will had not let his son from his arms. Wills sat in his father's lap, clutching his arms tightly. Elizabeth clung to Will's other arm. They were silent and lost in their thoughts.

Will kissed his son's head again. It was love at first sight. They had bonded more quickly than anything else in the world, both worlds. He did want to leave his son alone on this island. He wanted to take him with. Far away from him, his heart ached. Wills grabbed onto him tighter knowing he had only a half hour with his father. Will rested his chin on his son's head. In the distanced he heard his father's voice shouting orders. He watched as his toes played in the sand one last time. Elizabeth let her head rest against her Will then looked back to the horizon.

"Almost sunset," he whispered.

"I know," said Elizabeth. She looked at Wills.

He was already crying.

Will stood. He set an arm around Wills's back and under his knees. He wasn't going to let him go yet. With Elizabeth clutching his other arm, he walked to the dock slowly. Before touching wood, he looked at his feet on top of the sand and memorized the feeling. He walked onto the dock. Each step, he felt his life and freedom sinking back into the chest with his heart. At the edge of the dock, he stopped.

"You have to go don't you?" wondered Wills.

"Aye," said Will softly.

Will set him down and knelt. "I won't be far away. Now that you are old enough, you and your mother can come out to sea and see me for a day. Whenever you need me come to this spot and call. I'll come."

Wills nodded.

Will stood. He gazed at Elizabeth.

She threw her arms around his neck. Her body trembled as she too began crying.

Will softly hushed her.

She pulled away and kissed him tenderly. She had to make this last ten years.

Wills watched his parents. It was like there was no tomorrow for any of them.

"Daddy," he whispered sadly as he wrapped his arms around his waist.

Elizabeth slowly pulled away.

Will touched his forehead to hers. "I have to go," he told her.

She nodded.

Wills took the necklace from his neck. "I want you to have it back," he said.

Will slowly took the necklace. "Are you sure?"

Wills nodded.

Will set the necklace around his neck again. He smiled.

"Don't leave, I have something else for you," said Wills as he ran backwards.

Elizabeth found time to curl back in Will's arms. She noticed the sand falling from him.

"If I don't do this your father will," she said as she brushed her fingers through his curls. She brushed his clothes tenderly.

Will pulled her into a kiss of passion and love.

Wills ran back breathing heavily. "Daddy, you need 'Jack' more than I do," he told him in between gasps.

"Wills, no. He's yours," said Will.

"I have Mum. You don't have anyone," said Wills.

Will took the monkey. He looked at his son and knelt.

"When will I see you again?" asked Wills.

Will pulled him close. "When Jack comes, but it's our secret," he whispered in his ear.

Wills nodded.

"William," called Bill.

Will shut his eyes and stood. He looked at both of them.

"I'll always wait for you," said Elizabeth.

Will gave her one last hug. He breathed in her scent deeply. "And I will always love you."

One last kiss goodbye.

He knelt to hug his son.

Wills held him tightly. He didn't want to let go. "I love you Daddy."

"Always know that I love you no matter what," said Will, pulling away.

They gazed at each other.

Will stood and turned. He walked to the edge of his ship. He hand just touched the wood.

"Daddy, wait!" cried Wills desperate.

Will turned and pulled him close.

Elizabeth followed. She still kissed Will with their son in his arms. On last desperate kiss and one last desperate hug. She gazed into his eyes.

Will set his son down.

Wills gazed at him crying hard.

"Keep a weather eye on the horizon," Will told them with a small smile.

One last look. One last smile. He turned and boarded his ship. The order was given and he was sailing away. He leaned over the rail at the stern.

Wills stood at the edge of the dock. He glanced at the halfway disappeared sun.

Will smiled and waved at them.

Crying, Wills waved back. He smiled.

Elizabeth smiled as well. She set her arm around Wills's shoulder.

They watched as Will turned from them. The ship sailed farther and farther away. With each moment, the ship became smaller and smaller until a flash of green on the horizon. Nothing, not even the sun.

"Is Daddy gone?" asked Wills.

"Yes Wills, Daddy's gone," replied Elizabeth, fighting hard to hold back her pain.

Wills bowed his head.

She pulled him against her.

An hour later, Elizabeth continued to hold Wills and gaze at the horizon. Ten more years alone, away from her husband. So much had happened in the past day. So much she wanted to remember. So much she couldn't wait another ten years to do.

"Elizabeth, come inside now," said Thomas softly. He took Wills into his arms

Elizabeth followed slowly. She turned back once to see if he was really gone. He was.

In her room, she began to undress Wills. He woke and looked around.

"He's not here Wills," said Elizabeth.

Wills lowered his eyes. He nodded. "I miss him," he whispered. A drop rolled down his cheek.

"Me too," said Elizabeth. "But we'll see him again."

Wills nodded again. He crawled in bed.

Elizabeth changed into her normal nightgown in the other room. She crawled under her blanket beside her son.

Wills suddenly ran from the room then ran back in. He held a figure in his hand. He crawled back in bed next to his mother again and curled against her. "I love you Mum," he whispered.

"I love you Wills," said Elizabeth.

The melody from the music box lulled both to sleep in minutes and continued until Thomas entered to blow out the candle. He shut the music box then tucked the blanket tighter around the two. He noticed the figure in Wills's hand and smiled.

"I'll look after them for you Will," he whispered, looking at the sea then quietly left.

Wills smiled in his dream as he clutched the figure of his father tighter. That may have been the best day of his young life and it probably would be the best day of his life. He saw his father for the first time and he could finally tell everyone that he wasn't fatherless. He knew what his father looked like and if they asked for proof he could show them the carvings and his mother could even confirm that he was there for a day. Thomas could tell them too.

His father did say that if he ever needed him all he had to do was call him and he would call him. Now that he was old enough, his father didn't have to be a secret to him. They could spend time together. And when Jack came they would be together again. Besides, if he really wanted his Daddy all he had to do was hurt himself because his daddy did say that all it would take was to be dying and dying and hurt were pretty much the same thing. He couldn't wait until he was a little older then he would go sailing with his father and they would be together. Curses had a counter curse. He may have been nine years old but he was well educated in opposites and everything had an opposite. All he had to do was find the counter curse to the curse his father was under.

Now that he knew about his daddy, he wanted to ask his mother if he could keep the chest in his room now. She had him all her life and he only knew him for a day. It was only fitting that she let him have the chest. He was really good at keeping secrets and he would never tell anyone about the chest because his father told him not to tell anyone and he wouldn't. He promised. He was someone who never lied or went back on promises ever. And, one day, he could tell Alex about his father and his father's heart and then Alex could meet his father.

But, for now, he was content in his dreams of his father and holding the little wooden figure of his father in his hand and his mother sleeping beside him. He was only a child, but dreaming was what children did the best. He had big dreams, but the biggest of all was yet to come.

A Note from TurtleHeart:

so, thus ends Beyond the Horizon: A Decade to Wait, part one of the Beyond the Horizon Series. part two is entitled Beyond the Horizon: His Son's Realization and focuses on young Wills Turner and his struggles of living. i hoped you enjoyed part I and will continue to read this series although it is going to get quite long. the beginning of part II should be up within a few days so keep an eye out for it. and thank you to all of those who enjoy this story!

happy readings and keep a watchful eye!