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When the gods split the humans in two, Edward Teach and Israel Hands were scattered to opposite ends of the earth.
Not only one body, but one soul was split in two, neither to be complete without the other. Both men feel the ache of something missing, but can’t remember a time when it was different.
So a young Edward flees from his home, joins a pirate crew. Sets out for adventure, for the unknown, and if he finds something (or someone) to fill that hole one day, all the better.
A young Israel joins the navy. Better than the streets, and maybe he’ll get to see the world. Meet different people, maybe someone who will make him feel whole.
Neither boy is quite aware of what they’re searching for, only that they are dissatisfied.
Both try to fill that missing part of themselves with sex, and drink. Edward with treasure, Israel with service. Both with respect and renown.
But nothing works.
When Hornigold’s ship raids an English navy vessel, young Israel Hands cuts down man after man with his sword. But the pirates prove too much and Captain Hornigold, impressed, convinces Israel to join his crew.
It’s not until the next day that they see each other.
At first, across the ship, they don’t recognize each other. But as soon as they say hello, as soon as the beautiful Ed enthusiastically shakes the hand of the beautiful Israel, as soon as they start talking, they know. They keep it to themselves, but they know.
Know that they’ve found the one.
They recognize the pain in each other. They feel as if they’ve been together their whole lives. As if they’re meant to be together (they are).
The first time they make love is a revelation. They’re in a hammock but it may as well be a feather bed, in a room with crew, but may as well be alone. All that matters is the two of them, joining, thrusting, giving, taking, loving. Forcing themselves back together.
Wrapped tight in each other’s arms, when Edward comes deep inside Izzy, they both feel complete.
The rest will come later. The promises, the titles, the matelotage. But for now the two halves of the same soul are whole again at last, and will be until death do they part (and even longer than that).