Beast of Howling Treetop [1]

Around 24 hours had passed since they left the island, but they were swiftly apprehended by the navy. Mary skillfully dropped the anchor near a considerably large island, densely covered with a thriving forest.

This island stood as the grandest they had encountered thus far in Jack's relentless pursuit of treasure. Its apparent lack of inhabitants only fueled Jack's suspicion, given his recent encounters with various tribes and monstrous entities.

"Ye ready?" he asked.

"Aye, captainnn," she responded, her words swaying melodically as her body moved from low to high octaves.

Jack took the plunge first, diving into the water and causing his long, weathered brown coat and tattered brown tricorn to become drenched in the salty sea water. Emerging from the depths, he retrieved his tricorn and began swimming towards the shore.

Mary, in her characteristic fashion, dropped a small barrel of rum into the water before following suit, clutching two wooden mugs in her hands.

Once they reached the verdant shore, devoid of any sea life such as shells, algae, or lifeless fish, they swiftly set up a modest camp and settled down to rest before venturing into the mysterious forest.

Prior to their arrival, they had circled the island in search of a less densely forested area, but to their dismay, it seemed the entire island was consumed by rampant overgrowth. There was no discernible path leading to the heart of the island, only an expanse of untamed greenery.

"I'm gettin' an ill feeling 'bout this place, captain. It be resemblin' them previous islands where them peculiar scallywags and tribesmen resided," she voiced her concerns, her tone laced with caution.

Jack chuckled, his laughter echoing through the forest. "I know, Mary. Be prepared for anythin', especially them tribesmen lurkin' in the shadows, plannin' a surprise attack. They may not be the brightest or the strongest, but if luck turns against us, similar to our misfortune on the last island... well, ye know."

She nodded, offering a wry smile and a familiar look to Captain Jack.

"Now, ye can't be indulgin' in any more drinkin' for the moment. Sober up, lass, and let's make our way afore nightfall," he declared, his voice filled with authority.

Her smile vanished, replaced by a determined expression. "Ay, ay," she replied firmly.

After resting for another 20 minutes, Mary began to regain her sobriety, and they prepared themselves to venture into the depths of the unknown island's dense forest.

As they entered the forest, the air was filled with the melodic chirping of birds and the invigorating scent of herbs. The vegetation was overgrown, presenting a challenge as they struggled to make their way through without the aid of machetes.

Jack turned to Mary, curiosity evident in his eyes. "What be this peculiar scent? 'Tis like nothin' I've ever encountered before."

Breathless, Mary responded, "It be the scent of trees and grass, captain. Perhaps yer time spent sailin' has dulled yer senses."

Crouching down, Jack surveyed his surroundings, his nostrils flaring as he attempted to locate the source of the scent. In that moment, he resembled a stray dog, desperately seeking sustenance.

"Harharharhar," Mary chuckled, finding amusement in Jack's determined search.

Without uttering a word or returning the laughter, Jack continued his investigation. His nose led him to a cluster of leaves, which he gently touched before plucking one and standing upright. "I've never laid eyes upon this before," he declared.

Intrigued, Mary leaned in and inhaled the scent. "Ye be right, captain. 'Tis unlike anythin' from trees or grass. What do ye reckon it could be?"

Jack retrieved a leather pouch from his belt and proceeded to collect more leaves, stuffing them inside. "I know not, but mayhap we can seek the counsel of herbalists on our next island. Who knows, it might hold some value."

Eager to contribute, Mary joined in, and together they filled the pouch to the point where it could no longer be closed.

Continuing their journey deeper into the forest, they noticed a gradual reduction in greenery and the number of trees. Eventually, they encountered towering trees that reached up to 20 meters in height, each one adorned with a treehouse.

The treehouses were connected by wooden bridges, and fixed ladders provided access to the platforms high above.

To their astonishment, they witnessed humans traversing the bridges and platforms.

[Click me]

"Humans!" Mary exclaimed, her voice filled with surprise.

Jack pondered the sight before him. "They may seem like ordinary folk, but who's to say? Perhaps they've stolen clothes from other ill-fated pirates who dared to set foot on this island. They could very well be tribesmen."

"Mayhaps," she replied.

Taking cover behind a bush to remain hidden, they observed the humans, analyzing their movements and manner of speech in an attempt to discern whether they were wild or civilized.

Every action and conversation leaned towards the conclusion that these were indeed humans.

"What course ought we take?" Mary inquired, seeking guidance.

"Consult the map. How close are we to the X?" Jack suggested.

Mary took hold of the map and compass, studying them intently. After a moment, she spoke, "We need to walk forward for five minutes, then turn left for a minute."

Jack contemplated their options. If we proceed forward for five minutes, we won't reach the area with sufficient foliage to conceal ourselves. We'd be exposed, potentially visible from the treetops. Even if we go around by turning left, we'll still need to turn right for three to eight minutes. 'Tis a gamble, but I suppose I'll rely on luck.

Stepping out from behind the bush, they emerged into an open area surrounded by towering trees, their eyes fixed on the village of treehouses. Their gazes were drawn upwards, half-expecting the humans to descend upon them with ropes, ambushing them. However, the humans remained oblivious to their presence.

Cupping his hands around his mouth, Jack bellowed, "HELLO ME HEARTIES!"

The humans, whether mid-stride on wooden bridges or standing on platforms, abruptly halted their activities, turning their attention downward to behold Captain Jack and Mary Grace.

Windows of several treehouses swung open, revealing curious faces peering out, eager to ascertain the cause of the commotion.

"WE COME IN PEACE!" Jack shouted once more, anticipating some form of reaction from the villagers.

To their surprise, the villagers stood frozen, as if they had encountered spectral beings engaging them in conversation. One woman swiftly sprinted from platform to platform, traversing the bridges until she reached a tree housing a hollowed-out cavity.

Within the hollow, a metallic bell hung from a rope.

With great speed and strength, she vigorously pulled the rope, setting off ding-dong bell noises, alerting the other villagers.

{{Read Author's Thoughts}}