Wealth, freedom, and power... or perhaps the hangman's noose.

1672. The Caribbean. Diego Cargrave is a merchant sailor, and as master gunner's mate, an officer of sorts, though not much of one on a small ship with only two cannon. Life offers many risks and scant prospects. He feels increasingly restless, and begins to wonder what might be the cure. When he spots a ship approaching, he suspects trouble and warns his captain. When the ship runs out guns, and runs up the black flag, he and his crew mates ready for battle.

He is startled to find he welcomes it, and the prospects now before him.