Oh wow. I loved this. I do love The Truth of the matter the best simply because it allowed for hope and I adored Norrington's ability to laugh at the stories. This story is fantastic but disturbing because as Shelly says "now he had truly lost". It feels very real. I guess there never was going to be an outcome where they would all laugh - Shelly would feel betrayed and you've captured her so well. (and Norrington of course). Anyway, thanks for writing.