The mood aboard The Abyss was unusually tense as the crew gathered on the main deck, waiting for Captain Rourke to address them. The recent success of the jungle expedition had sent ripples through the ship, with whispers of Jacob's growing power and influence spreading like wildfire among the men. Some spoke of him with admiration, others with caution, but all were keenly aware that something had shifted.
Captain Rourke, ever the commanding presence, stood at the helm, his sharp eyes surveying the assembled crew. His expression was unreadable, but Jacob could sense the undercurrent of tension beneath the captain's calm exterior.
"Men of The Abyss," Rourke began, his voice carrying easily over the murmur of the crew, "we have returned from Isla de los Perdidos with more than just gold and jewels. We have returned with the means to secure our future—treasure that will not only fill our coffers but also pay for the much-needed repairs to our ship."
The crew cheered, their voices echoing across the deck. But as the noise subsided, Rourke's gaze settled on Jacob, and the crowd fell silent.
"Much of this success is due to our boatswain, Jacob," Rourke continued, his tone even but carrying an unmistakable weight. "He led the expedition into the jungle, faced the dangers within the temple, and brought back both wealth and something more—something that ensures The Abyss will remain the terror of these seas."
Jacob inclined his head slightly, acknowledging the captain's words without giving too much away. He could feel the eyes of the crew on him, some filled with respect, others with suspicion. Rourke was clearly aware of the growing sentiment among the men, and his words were as much a reminder as they were praise.
"This treasure will be divided as it should," Rourke continued, his voice growing harder. "Each of you will get your fair share, and the rest will be used to repair and refit The Abyss so that we are ready for whatever lies ahead. But let me be clear—this ship thrives because we are united, because we follow the chain of command. Anyone who forgets that, anyone who thinks they can disrupt the order aboard this ship, will find themselves on the wrong side of the plank."
The crew shifted uncomfortably, the underlying threat in the captain's words hanging in the air. Jacob remained impassive, his expression carefully controlled. He understood the message perfectly—Rourke was reminding him, and everyone else, who was in charge.
But the captain's warning did little to quell the murmurs that spread through the crew after the address. As the men returned to their duties, Jacob could hear snippets of conversation—some voices praising his leadership and courage, others cautioning against challenging the captain's authority.
Garrett approached Jacob as the crew dispersed, his expression thoughtful. "You've made quite an impression on the men," he said quietly. "They're talking about you, you know."
Jacob nodded, his gaze drifting to where Captain Rourke stood, still watching the crew with that same unreadable expression. "The captain's right to be cautious," Jacob replied. "But I have no intention of challenging him. Not yet."
Garrett raised an eyebrow. "Not yet?"
Jacob met his gaze, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "There's still much to be done, Garrett. But when the time is right, I'll make my move. Until then, I'll bide my time and strengthen my position."
Garrett regarded him for a moment before nodding slowly. "Just be careful, Jacob. Rourke's not a man to underestimate."
"I know," Jacob said, his tone serious. "And that's why I'm taking things one step at a time."
With the captain's warning still echoing in his mind, Jacob knew he had to tread carefully. His success had earned him respect, but it had also drawn attention—both from those who supported him and those who feared what he might become.
But Jacob was patient. He would continue to play the role of the loyal boatswain, following orders and proving his worth. All the while, he would quietly build his power base, ensuring that when the time came, he would be ready.
And the first step in that plan was to acquire the maps from the old cartographer. The amulet, now a part of him, was the key to unlocking the next stage of his journey. But the trade would have to be handled carefully, with the knowledge that every move he made was being watched.