X Marks the Spot

I couldn’t think of a good “X” post. But I had to come up with something, so what would any writer do in this situation? Write a story of course! I know it’s not Monday, so consider this a bonus piece of 500-or-fewer-words flash fiction called…

X MARKS THE SPOT

My heart near about leaped from my chest when I saw it. I collapsed my telescope and called to the First Mate.

“Billy,” I said, “straight ahead. Keep her straight!”

“Aye sir,” he called back.

The Mutiny may be a rickety pile of wood, but she’s done me proud these past five years since I’ve been captain. She fairly clips along when the wind’s billowing in the sails, and she was doing a fine job cutting through the water as we approached the island. I pulled out the map we’d been following for six months now. Everything looked just as it said.

We hit land maybe thirty minutes later, and all but a few watchmen disembarked, with five of the burliest men carrying shovels.

“Where now, sir?” said Billy. I consulted the map, and noted the landmarks. Five trees in a circle, and a big cross in the middle: “X” marks the spot.

“Follow me,” I said, and led the march across the sand into the woods. It was maybe only ten minutes of walking before we were standing in the middle of five big palm trees. I checked the map one last time, then announced to the assembled crew:

“Right here, lads! Right under my feet!”

They let up a loud cheer, then I moved so the five diggers could begin their work.

I imagined they were as excited as I was, because they dug at a furious pace, making quick work of the sandy soil. I stood back and watched as they hauled dirt, their bald heads glistening under the tropical sun. I was fair sweaty myself, but I, and the others, took shade beneath the long branches of the trees.

The men dug for what seemed a long time. I suppose time goes slow when you’re anticipating a big reward. The ground was well over their heads when one gave up a shout. I ran to the edge, my heart pounding.

“Is it there?” I said.

“I think so, captain sir,” said the man who’d shouted.

“Let me see!”

We helped the five men out of the hole, and I was about to lower myself down when I felt a thump on my back and I fell. I hit the bottom, landing awkward on my foot. I couldn’t stand, but the thrill overcame thoughts of pain and confusion. I looked to my feet… and yelled out in fright.

“There’s bones down here!” I said. “And a skull! What kind of treasure is this?”

“Treasure’s all ours captain,” said Billy, looking down the hole. “And she ain’t called The Mutiny for no reason!” He smiled and nodded to the men hidden from my view.

Dirt started to rain down on my head.

“What’s going on?” I shouted. “Get me out now!”

“I think not,” said Billy. “We’re just going to let you rest there with the last captain of The Mutiny. Maybe we’ll find a decent one yet.”

My last cries were muffled…