Rain silently moves into the Captain's cabin and stands beside an inconspicuous Jiro and Variel.
She listens to Flynn's praise and recommendation toward his old friend Camm and the hippogriff mount.
"I did not witness that he can do the job. The Skylord fought when attacked, and that he stood instead of run is commendable, but it does not prove that he will fit into this crew or that he would be a good addition."
Rain turns her turquoise gaze fully on Camm, ignoring Flynn. "If you mean to be a true member of the Lady I suggest you first check your self-satisfaction at the door and learn some humility. From the first, your bravado was obvious and unappealing. You were rude to more than one officer and I did not care for it. Aye, you aided us in fighting the assassins as did your creature mount, and you both have my gratitude for standing ground. I presumed you did so more for your friend there, gesturing to Flynn, than the rest of us, but that is not relevant at this point. You have not proven yourself to me, but if my fellow officers are willing to give you an opportunity to do so, then I will not counter their decision."
Rain's voice throughout her speech is steady and smooth (not elevated or passionate). She is simply stating the facts as she sees it.
She returns her gaze to Flynn for a second and the turquoise is fiery. Since their tentative friendship was sundered by Flynn's constant disapproval, Rain kept her peace. He did not register her presence or words and she had come to finally accept it. And that he would presume to speak on her behalf, and in her native tongue, made her mood all the more disquiet.
Staring steadily ahead, his eyes seemed to look without seeing as he takes a long pull from his cheroot, and exhales it quickly.
He flicks the ash onto a small plate.
”We’re a pretty friendly bunch here, eh?” he says in a flat voice to Camm, as he continues to look without seeing.
”Yeah, well… now you know why I bunk below decks.”
He takes another pull from the cheroot, tired of dealing with ire and impatience and hurtful words and tones, and is already eager to simply get out of the cabin and get back to being around people who are more friendly with him.
Not yet, lad. First you need to settle business.
He lets out a sigh and than turns to Camm.
”I reckon a better question is – before we even talk about having you join up – is, knowing what we are – do you want to sail with us?”
”This ain’t like before, when we sailed and were all mates… this package has lots of uncertainties aboard. We got crew we picked up from all over the place – Rhahadoum folk that joined us when we captured and killed their officer; we got mutineers who joined up; we got various cutthroats and mercenaries and other scum who joined up from all over bloody Inner Sea.”
”I don’t know the half of them, and don’t trust all of them; I’ve even taking to watching a few of them, just to be sure.”
”On top of which… well, after tonight, it got me thinking on the new lot we picked up here. Any of them may be a spy from the same group who tried to knife us tonight. How the hell would we know? Ninja folk are rumored to be pretty slick; we did plenty of recruiting the last few days, no knowing if one the boys we picked up wasn’t an assassin in disguise eager to make another hit once we put to sea in case this little skirmish tonight failed. It could be we got another one of their boys already recruited and don't even know it, eh?”
”Anyhow, all of that may give you pause for wanting to even sail with us at all.”
”But assuming you’re still interested, I’ll say now that you’re a piss-poor sailor; that’s for damn sure, but not worse than some of the lads on board – hell; you should meet my mate Owlbear… But my point is you can fight and you can kill – and if we need either to get done, you’ll do it good. I know that much, because I’ve seen you do it; and not just tonight.”
"Plus I know you won’t stick a knife in my back secret-like, which makes me feel safer. I don’t know for sure the same about all of the crew on this ship – another reason I stay below… I like to keep my ears open, and my eyes. I watch them, just to be sure…”
He takes another pull from the cheroot.
”I’m thinking Jiro-san ain’t got a problem with you on this ship, but I don’t know. You got my vote – and it looks like Rain there won’t say “no” if you join up; provided Dhaavan and Nighstorm back you, and assuming you want to be on board.”
”So I guess when they make their vote – you’ll know more. Assuming you still want the job, that is."
Horatio suddenly frowns and swings himself out of the chair and move to the aft porthole, checking the water around the ship. After a moment of seeing nothing untoward, he shrugs, and moves back to drop back into his chair.
"I'll just say that one of the reasons we came to this joint was to recruit lads for fighting and pirating ships. We need men who can fight, and men who can kill. You can do both so I'm thinking that should be good enough for this lot; I don’t know why you’re getting the special “once over” when you already demonstrated you can at least fight and we need fighting men.”
”Now I’ll toss this last point out to at least Dhaavan and Nightstorm to chew over –as I’m guessing that they haven’t made up their mind formal-like,” he says with a very tired and somewhat listless voice, his anima and pleasant enthusiasm long since departed.
”There’s been a lot of talk about attacking this joint called “Tidewater Rock”. I got no knowing what it looks like, and no real details on the layout of the place – but the gist of it, as I heard – was that is some kind of island fortress, eh?”
”Our ship ain’t got much for artillery; we ain’t bought guns for her, nor have we got better protection.”
”That joint is a fortress, or something – likely it’s got batteries… er; siege guns, or whatever you want to call them – to batter off a ship attack. If we decide to fire back, our targets are going to be piss-poor small I’d reckon. Or at least – if I was engineering a fort, I’d have my weapons behind narrow windows and plenty cover – which means even with better weapons, it’ll be hard to destroy their guns behind good cover, and I bet they could sink our ship at range.”
He turns a dull look at Camm.
”I know what Cyc can do – he’ll we’ve done it together. But the point is – you could take him up, take a spellslinger with you – and fly over the range of their siege guns, which are not likely to be pointed straight up to shoot into the sky in any case.”
”Then a lad like Dhaavan – if he’s willing – can magic up some summoned beasties to drop right on top of their shooters, distract them enough to let our ship move in closer, and we could do the job better with less damage from their guns.”
He turns to Variel directly.
”You may not like his brag or swagger, but that’s a bloody good tactic. I’ve seen it done – I’ve helped him do it. It works – and there’s a good chance they won’t see it coming. You have him on board, he flies above the guns and drops havock on their gun ports from above – it’ll let you get the ship in with less heat.”
”You also know – as I do – we got lads on this ship that may be more polite than him; but that don’t mean they’re more trustworthy. Camm’s got a reason to brag, I know as much. If you don’t believe me, that’s fine – but he’s not going to sneak into your bed and cut your throat in the night. We don’t know that about all of our crew as of now.”
”Think about it when you cast your vote for him on coming with us; that is – if you want to attack this Rock place, and if he still wants to come with us,” he adds.
Having taken in what the crew has said,Camm mostly blows it off stating, "Worry not, Flynn, I expect as much from people of this station. I have worked with the free captains for longer than I had cared and in that time low breeding and impetuous behavior are things I have come to suffer with no real offense." Turning to Rain he continues, "While you have the diplomacy of a Bekyar tribesman, with whom I have also spent time, I must say that I was impressed the way you all reacted with those hooligans . That being said, Cyclone is no more a creature than you, elf, and I have nothing to prove to you nor any of these others. If your boat is need of the most effective warrior in all the Mwangi, then I am happy to lend my lance. But, if you are seeking someone hold hands and sing little ditties around a campfire, you have the wrong Man."he finishes with slight sneer.
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Variel listens to Flynn elaborate on the situation. Although he does make some points, Variel feels that he is biased towards Camm for good reason. Variel saw him stand with them and fire his bow, but that was the extent of seeing his abilities. Yes he did manage to hit and injure the assassins at lest once but nothing extraordinary was seen.
The problem for Variel was two-fold. First how would the crew take to having a creature like a Hippogryph on board with them. This was the first main issue and one that would have to be dealt with on the morrow by talking to the crew and listening to their sentiments. If Camm, Flynn, Piper and Cyclone all shared a space on the first level in the cargo hold that may alleviate some concerns. It would free up the bottom area for supplies and the secure storage for Jiro, have an opening for Camm and Cyclone to fly out of. If Flynn and Piper created a removable canopy to clo the hatch, then they could work there as well protected from the elements. It was possible anyways. But still something that would have to be relayed to the crew. Variel knew he was captain and that if he ordered it the crew would be forced to listen and follow, but was it worth it. The better path would be to find out first from some of the crew what their thoughts were and go from there. If they agreed to it then the decision was made, if they didn't agree then Variel would have to order it if he wanted Camm and Cyclone along.
The second issue was one that Flynn himself just mentioned. What good was Camm and Cyclone on a ship? Flynn stated Camm was a 'piss-poor sailor'. If that was the case then why take Camm on a ship? Yes we needed able bodies to fight and sail, but one should not be focused on to the exclusion of the other. If Camm was that bad on the water, who was to say he would be in fighting shape after a month on the sea. Then he would be a drain on resources and morale.
Opening his mouth to speak, Variel looks first at Flynn, Thanks Flynn for your speech regarding Camm here. However I would like to here from him before we continue on. Turning to Camm, A couple of things precisely I want answered. First, beyond fighting, what can you bring to The Dread Lady? We need more than just fighters if we are to make in on the seas. We need people that can fight as well as crew a ship. Second how do you plan on keeping Cyclone fed? Is he able to hunt for himself on the water? We do not have the resources to provide food for him everyday. Third, can and will you follow orders. You seem to be a fellow that takes matters into his own hands and damn the consequences. We don't need a hot shot causing problems because he won't listen or follow the plan. If you can answer these satisfactorily I will talk to the crew about you bunking in the first hold just below us. There should be room and the hatchway allows you and Cyclone to fly out if you need to. Flynn and Piper can build a removable lid for the hatchway to keep the weather out. Perhaps Flynn and Piper will join you once the lid is completed. That will free the space below for supplies. I await your answers Camm.
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As far as the assassins are concerned, Variel let his thoughts be known about the bodies. Variel would add later once the topic comes up again, I don't know about the rest of you, but I plan on going back to the town and spending the night there. The ship is safe and I want to prove that we can't be cowed or frightened, we can't leave the ship unguarded. I know Flynn you don't want to spend the night in town. Perhaps you and some others should stay here. Rain and I could go into town and if we do run into trouble house the hat to get back to the ship.
"I think I will stay here on the ship, Variel-sama. I have no desire to go to town again tonight, though I will want to go in the morning, since it is our last full day in town and I have business to attend to." He takes a deep breath and sighs softly... and pulls out a dagger and uses the tip to gingerly clean his fingernails.
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"And you Skylord have the manners of an ill-treated dog. Whereas the dog can be excused for its poor behaviour, you cannot. Speak to me in that fashion again and you shall feel my sword at your throat. And let's see how you can fight without your hippogriff to do all the work for you." Rain's eyes are a blazing turquoise and there is a sneer upon her face to match the disgusting human's. She stands her ground, straight, tall and fiery.
Camm was as boorish as Flynn and she would steer clear of him if he was accepted onboard the Lady. She hoped they would tear each other apart stuck together down below in the cargo hold.
"And it is a ship you are on, Saurar, not a boat."
As far as the assassins are concerned, Variel let his thoughts be known about the bodies. Variel would add later once the topic comes up again, I don't know about the rest of you, but I plan on going back to the town and spending the night there. The ship is safe and I want to prove that we can't be cowed or frightened, we can't leave the ship unguarded. I know Flynn you don't want to spend the night in town. Perhaps you and some others should stay here. Rain and I could go into town and if we do run into trouble house the hat to get back to the ship.
Later, after Variel has spoken his piece.
Rain turns to look at Variel directly when he mentions returning to town that same night.
She does not know how wise it is to leave Flynn and Camm onboard and have the others monitor their impetuousness (among other things), but she would not allow Variel to venture out without escort.
"If you require my attendance, then I shall come with you into town. I think it is best I put some distance between myself and some others on this ship and that you do not travel alone into Bloodcove."
Seijiro watches the interplay between Rain and Camm and winces, sighing. Wonderful, just what we need... more rancor on board. I'm inclined to vote against his presence as he seems as self-absorbed and rough as Flynn, though in truth, he's far preferable as he doesn't talk so much and he certainly doesn't keep repeating himself over and over again. That's a plus right there. But I will go along with whatever the majority wants. I don't want to make waves. He'd certainly be handy in a fight, but does he even know his way around a ship?
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Variel watches the exchange between Camm and Rain. Refraining from giving any outward reaction, Variel prepares to jump between the two of them with cutlass drawn if needs be to keep them from attacking each other. When Rain states that she would accompany him into town, Variel nods his head, I think it would be good to have some space. One this gets hashed out between all of us I think some fresh air and a different perspective is in order.
What the heck is going on here? I know that Flynn and I have issues, but that's nothing compared to this Camm fellow. If he doesn't tone it down I will have to throw him overboard myself.
Horatio just stares at the bulkhead and says nothing.
So much for the battle bringing us together and bonding us as a team.
He sighs.
Hearing Variel’s comment about reworking the ship, he clears his throat.
”Don’t know what you mean about reworking things… there’s already a pretty big hatch built into the hold anyhow; wouldn’t even be a problem as it’s already there.”
”As for where Camm sets up his kit? I wouldn’t worry about that anyhow. The “officer’s quarters” where I was supposed to be sleeping currently has an open bunk – he can sleep there, if he wants to, as there’s plenty of room, and personally, I don’t feel like sleeping there at this point anyway no matter what the situation was with the rest of the crew,” he says with a tired voice.
He takes a drink of whatever is on the table.
”By the way – I haven’t slept ashore since we got here; I been sleeping on the ship. Like I said – I don’t have the money for fancy rooms at this point. If you want to go back ashore and sleep in a tavern, do what you got to do,” he says, continuing to talk to Variel alone, his eyes looking at nothing in particular.
He considers other things for a bit, than quaffs the drink and stands up and walks away from the table.
Pausing at the door he turns to Camm –
”Camm, you’re a good lad, and I know you – and I like you, and I trust you. But you’re a guest here; maybe try cutting the attitude down a bit, seeing that you’re a guest, eh?”
He turns a tired look at Rain.
”And Rain, why don’t you quit this bit about how being an “officer” on this ship makes you better than other folks. It’s an ugly way to be, and it don’t suit you.”
He sighs and turns a dull look back at Variel.
”Nightstorm – we got our issues; but I reckon if you want to be acting like a ‘Toff than maybe the first thing you ought to think about is making sure everyone acts like… I don’t know… adults? – instead of bickering over nonsense.”
”Maybe people could just grow up and start thinking about the team, and acting like a team, and check the ego’s at the door, eh?”
He lifts the latch and pauses.
”Oh, uh – Camm? I hope things work out with you regarding staying on board and I hope you get things figured out. I’d like to sail with you, but as of now I need to get the hell out of here and get some air.”
”Let me know how things turn out, eh?” he adds, than walks out and shuts the door behind him.
Before Flynn dramatically exits the cabin,
"I speak as a person who will not stand for blatant disrespect. I did not call him names and slur his name but he did mine. I speak as Rain not as an officer of this ship. You mind that Horatio Flynn. I am done with you."
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Listening to Flynn talk and then Rain was giving Variel a headache. Something had to be done and quick before this escalated any further.
Raising his voice to a shout commanding silence from the rest, Variel starts talking quietly hoping his tone will make then listen to his words since nothing said earlier has registered. his words are forceful and commanding. If they want to squabble amongst themselves to bad. As captain Variel can not let that happen and will make sure it doesn't if within his power. Flynn, come back and sit down we are not finished yet. This is a meeting of the officers of the ship and as long as you hold that position you will abide by standards that position entails. Treat it as a request from Variel or an order from your captain. I don't care which one as long as you sit yourself down and not walk out like your better than the rest. You know we are free to talk openly here otherwise nothing will get said nor finalized.
Rain, you are not innocent either. Even though he may not speak the elven tongue others of us do and we know that you slurred him by calling him a foul one. Yes this was after he belittled you but you stooped to the same level.
Camm, I tried to give you the benefit of the doubt being our guest. You keep up this attitude though and I will start losing my patience. Your bravado may be well earned, but tell me, if you are the greatest Most effective warrior in all the M'wangi expanse, where were you when the fighting was taking place. From my vantage in top of the roof flanked by 2 assassins, you were in the street taking pot shots at them. Did you fell any foes, cause any to flee, protect anyone from being shot at, aided those who were injured? I saw none of that. Your effectiveness left a lot to be desired. Now stow the attitude or leave the ship.
As for why we are talking with you here, Camm, there seems to be some disagreement. Flynn thinks you are officer material according to his idea of you staying in the officer's cabin. Right now the questions seems to be not if you are officer material but if you are even going to be on the ship. You haven't said why you should be on board nor what you can do for us as a crewman let alone if you are officer material.
Variel finishes speaking and glares at the three of them almost daring them to deny his statements. He waits for one of them to talk and even then does not quit scowling.
Before Flynn dramatically exits the cabin,
"I speak as a person who will not stand for blatant disrespect. I did not call him names and slur his name but he did mine. I speak as Rain not as an officer of this ship. You mind that Horatio Flynn. I am done with you."
Pausing, he turns and looks at Rain, his eyes loosing their dull look for a moment.
"That's enough, Rain," he says with a tight voice.
He stares at her for a moment.
"On this ship we survive only by protecting our mates."
"We watch out for each other and protect each other, and help each other - because if we don't, we die."
He points a finger at Variel.
"I don't like him so much; and he don't like me - but we both know at least that in a fight, we got each other's backs. We may snap at each other, or bark at each other - but when push comes to shove, I know he'll back me in fight and he can believe I'll back him."
His eyes grow flinty.
"So while you're on this ship you can just stow that crap about "being done with" anybody who sails with us, and that includes me. Because if you can't be part of a team, this ship ain't for you."
His eyes narrow.
"And I don't want to hear no talk about spilling blood. It ain't gods damned professional, not to mention the fact that it's ugly, and it's downright "disrespectful" to tell a lad you'll kill him on account of the fact you don't like his lingo."
"But if that ain't enough, then I'll say that when you took the oath to obey the Code we sail under, part of that deal was that there wasn't going to be any business about killing mates on this ship, savvy?"
"Nightstorm and I piss each other off plenty - but there ain't talk about spilling blood because that kind of talk crosses the line."
"So if what Camm says pisses you off and gets under your skin, too bad. Toughen up your skin, and deal with it; but don't be threatening people with blood."
"And as for being "done with me"? I'm a member of the gods damned crew, and on this ship we back our mates because they're part of the team, even if we don't like them."
"If you can't act like a mate, if you can't back one of your mates in a fight, if your ire keeps you from supporting a mate and talk about being "done with" folks, or of killing someone - than you best find yourself a new berth."
Rain's stare could have burned through Flynn's blackened soul right and true. She held her words. He did not understand a thing, not one solitary thing, and she would have felt pity for him had she not begun to harbour such a burning dislike that it overshadowed any empathic feeling.
Variel's reprimand and scowl had silenced her wholly. She stood, eyes forward, shutting out what she had to to get through this moment and the others which would follow.
Listening to Flynn talk and then Rain was giving Variel a headache. Something had to be done and quick before this escalated any further.
Raising his voice to a shout commanding silence from the rest, Variel starts talking quietly hoping his tone will make then listen to his words since nothing said earlier has registered. his words are forceful and commanding. If they want to squabble amongst themselves to bad. As captain Variel can not let that happen and will make sure it doesn't if within his power. Flynn, come back and sit down we are not finished yet. This is a meeting of the officers of the ship and as long as you hold that position you will abide by standards that position entails. Treat it as a request from Variel or an order from your captain. I don't care which one as long as you sit yourself down and not walk out like your better than the rest. You know we are free to talk openly here otherwise nothing will get said nor finalized.
Rain, you are not innocent either. Even though he may not speak the elven tongue others of us do and we know that you slurred him by calling him a foul one. Yes this was after he belittled you but you stooped to the same level.
Camm, I tried to give you the benefit of the doubt being our guest. You keep up this attitude though and I will start losing my patience. Your bravado may be well earned, but tell me, if you are the greatest Most effective warrior in all the M'wangi expanse, where were you when the fighting was taking place. From my vantage in top of the roof flanked by 2 assassins, you were in the street taking pot shots at them. Did you fell any foes, cause any to flee, protect anyone from being shot at, aided those who were injured? I saw none of that. Your effectiveness left a lot to be desired. Now stow the attitude or leave the ship.
As for why we are talking with you here, Camm, there seems to be some disagreement. Flynn thinks you are officer material according to his idea of you staying in the officer's cabin. Right...
As Horatio is ready to leave, he hears Variel’s speech.
As he listens his expression changes and he gives the elf a strange look, and a slow smile forms on his lips.
Turning from the door, he moves back to the table, swings out the chair and drops himself back into it, still staring at Variel with the same odd smile.
”Alright, I’ll stick around for a bit,” he says slowly, starting at the elf with an appraising look.
Reaching for another bottle of drink, he pours himself another glass.
”Apologies all,” he says, his tone more relaxed yet sincere.
”I spoke in heat, got a bit riled just now… but it’s all good,” he says, continuing to watch Variel over the rim of the glass as he takes a drink.
Putting the glass on the table, he nods his head somewhat.
”I’ll say this for you, Nightstorm – you keep making speeches like that and pretty soon I’ll be calling you “captain” for real,” he says, lifting his glass to the elf.
”Of course, I’ll still call you’re a basterd, too. But at least I’ll say “sir” when I do,” he adds, giving him a wink to let him know he’s merely trying to lighten the mood with a bit of brevity.
Nevertheless, it seems that at least at this point Horatio was both surprised and pleased with how Variel handled the situation.
Seijiro sits quietly in a corner of the cabin, alone with his thoughts for the most part. He takes in what everyone is saying and shows neither agreement nor disagreement with anything said.
Too much anger in here, I think, but better in here, than out there. We've got to resolve this before it escalates even more. Everyone's got their points, and it doesn't make any difference really what I think. I'm just one voice and no one is going to listen to anything new at this point. They've all got their backs up and are snarling like a pack of wolves over a fresh kill. No one is really listening to Variel, they are all alphas here except me, maybe, and no one wants to back down or show weakness. This isn't going to end well, unless they are all willing to concede some points for the sake of peace, if nothing else.
He mutters to himself quietly, his voice not carrying far in the cabin over the voices of the others, and his words in Minkaian, which no one understands anyway. His eyes narrow and harden as he listens to the others and his lips draw thin with tension.
Horatio’s mind ranges over Variel’s words a moment, and he considers them.
”Now hold on a moment – I never said nothing specific about making Camm an officer,” he says holding up his hands.
”I said we could have him with us and he’d be good in a fight. He’s a good fighter, but better at range on Cyc to get his killing done. Toe-to-toe an archer ain’t very good in a fight, I’ll agree.’
”But as for officer? Well – there’s quite a bit that needs to get done before that can be handled proper.”
He looks at Camm.
”No offense – but it wouldn’t seem fair to some of the crew if we suddenly pulled an old mate of mine from out of the blue to be one of the chiefs to tell them what to do. We got some lads on board who sailed with us for a while; good lads – trusty folk who’ve been faithful and deserving of praise and merit.”
”You come with us and put your time before the mast like the rest of us; hell yeah – I’m all for making you an officer at that point, for what’s it worth.”
He turns back to Variel.
”My thinking was that – at least for a bit – he don’t get no specific title or position over any, until they seem him in action at least once; maybe more.”
”Once the crew – and the rest of you – see what he can do when he’s got open sky to work with, I reckon everyone will be more open to him getting some distinction on board.”
”As it is, we need fighting men. Letting him come on as a fighting man or recruit with the rest of the folk we hire on don’t seem unreasonable. Giving him a bigger cut than some second-rate swab because he’s got better gear to bring with him don’t unreasonable neither, once we everyone can see Cyclone in action with him on his back.”
”As for him taking my former bunk with the rest of the officers? Well… that was mainly on account that… well, I’m more comfortable below decks than above. We’ll leave it at that,” he says slowly.
He turns to Camm.
”Camm – you got the goods to show them, I know it, and so do you. Being a regular mate for a bit, until they see what you can do – that seems reasonable enough, eh? And then when you get out there and do what you do… if you’re willing to impress people with your skills; I reckon you’ll be moved up quick as can be.”
He glances back to Variel.
”Well, how does that proposal sound to you?”
Finally, when Flynn speaks up about him being a normal recruit, but sleeping in the officer's quarters, Seijiro looks up and his eyes open wider and he shakes his head.
"If he comes on as a normal recruit, then gets a bigger cut, and you want him to develop a rapport with the crew, he should bunk with the crew, and have a job on the crew. Even if he doesn't have the skill, he can learn, can't he? - have him be a swab if he can't sail - at least until he learns more or can prove himself to be officer material."
Not that I have qualms about sharing the quarters, but the rest of the crew will know right off that he's not here as a 'regular recruit' if he's quartered with the officers. And he certainly doesnt seem to be a friendly sort. If he's going to act like Flynn, I'm not sure I want to share quarters with him. I'd like to see how he gets along with folks first.
Finally, when Flynn speaks up about him being a normal recruit, but sleeping in the officer's quarters, Seijiro looks up and his eyes open wider and he shakes his head.
"If he comes on as a normal recruit, then gets a bigger cut, and you want him to develop a rapport with the crew, he should bunk with the crew, and have a job on the crew. Even if he doesn't have the skill, he can learn, can't he? - have him be a swab if he can't sail - at least until he learns more or can prove himself to be officer material."
Not that I have qualms about sharing the quarters, but the rest of the crew will know right off that he's not here as a 'regular recruit' if he's quartered with the officers. And he certainly doesnt seem to be a friendly sort. If he's going to act like Flynn, I'm not sure I want to share quarters with him. I'd like to see how he gets along with folks first.
Horatio laughs at Seijiro’s comment.
”Aye – fair enough. Swab or pump bilges or pitch in with Fishgust’s in the galley,” he says with a smile.
”That’s just and fair; we all had to cut our teeth that way, it’s only right that he does, too.”
”The only reason I offered him the berth above was because there was worry that there was no room for him.”
”But you’re right,” he says suddenly growing serious.
”He gets special perks, that won’t make it easy for him to blend in.”
”He either hops in as an officer direct – or earns it by proving himself.’
”So he proves himself first. Well, I got no worries on him proving it on account of the fact that he can get the job done.”
”As for coin – he does deserve extra cut on that count. He at least needs it if he’s going to be paying for Cyc’s feed. And anyhow, he’s essentially bringing us extra weaponry to this ship; that’s only fair that he gets more than a regular lad, even if he has to work a bit like one of them for a bit.”
"How does that sound?" he asks, curious to know what at least Seijiro has to say to that idea.
"If he does more fighting than the rest of the crew, and contributes more, than a larger cut is only fair, I just mean maybe if he gets one we shouldn't share that information with the rest of the crew. It certainly won't make them accept him faster. Some might resent that. But I leave that up to others to decide. That's just my opinion"
"If he does more fighting than the rest of the crew, and contributes more, than a larger cut is only fair, I just mean maybe if he gets one we shouldn't share that information with the rest of the crew. It certainly won't make them accept him faster. Some might resent that. But I leave that up to others to decide. That's just my opinion"
"I agree with that, too," Horatio says.
"Telling all in sundry that he's getting extra loot may be even worse for his standing with the crew. But I hadn't planned on sharing that with no one, though."
"I mean, I think there are occasions when rewarding a lad can be good for moral, as it encourages them to work harder. But that's just sort of a general rule - and doesn't really apply in this case."
He takes another drink.
"But that's all an aside. Right now I'm just saying I think once he gets out and there and does his thing, you'll be pleased with the results, that's all."
"But like you said; if the plan is to have him blend in, I don't want to advertise that to the rest of the regular lads either."
Again not giving the woman with hard eyes any attention, Camm turns to the Captain saying,"Your crew is most unwelcoming, dear Captain. I must say for an officer to speak in such way shows some lack of control. Now to the battle....I do believe that even in a fit of coughing brought on by those scandalous rouges I was still able to land a mighty shot against that fellow so intent on striking you down while you where similarly mired. And in the absence of my horn, Cyclone still arrived in time to destroy one then dissipate the dastardly smoke of the others.
Do you always ask how a crewman will be fed? Have never sailed upon a large enough vessel to carry marines? I have no qualms about aiding your men when needed, but I am a scout and a manner for you to have power projection against ships you might not otherwise ever take or defend against! There officers and rigging will more than often be shredded by the time you arrive than not. Now tell me the value I have aboard this ship.
Hearing Camm’s comments about Rain, Horatio turns to him and gives him a hard look.
”Alright – come on, enough of that, alright? It’s been a long night, we’re all still stressed about those damn assassins – so everyone got a little pissed just now, and I’m sure folks said things that maybe they didn’t mean. But it’s over and done with now, so don’t keep pushing at it, or it’s going to be a problem, alright?” he says, the last word more of a warning than a question.
Hoping that Camm will take the hint and start being more moderate around these folks, he says nothing more for a bit, though he eventually rolls his eyes at Camm’s bragging.
Sensing trouble and eager to push on before tempers get riled again, he waves his hand at Camm as if to signal that he stows his bragging for a bit and instead get the particulars taken care of without any more arguments.
”Yeah, yeah – we got all that,” he says briskly, interrupting Camm’s words.
”You’re handy with your bow and at range – better than most of us because you can swoop in hard and fast to deliver damage while the ship is still moving up.”
”And yeah, that fight didn’t show you in the best light on account of the fact that you were shooting near blind while choking on smoke. But you hit your man, and you helped out and if you were in a position to do range damage you’d be better off. Great, we got it,” he continues quickly, hoping to forestall any more hasty words.
”And to answer your question, no – we don’t ask for crewmen to have to take care of their own grub normally – but Cyclone is a different sort. I reckon everyone’s thinking of that old line – He eats like a horse – or something like that, and maybe they’re a bit nervous on it. After all, rations for a man don’t equal rations for a horse; that’s true. A horse’s feed would take up a lot more space than dry rations for a man supplemented by the occasional fish we may pinch,” he adds, speaking about the issue of what to feed Cyclone, and cutting Variel off.
However, Horatio isn't trying to be rude to Variel, only wanting to get to the point fast, and hopefully put people at ease regarding Cyclone before Camm pushes someone a bit harder than he might.
”Feeding a horse would be damn hard, aye. Luckily this ain’t the case,” he says, continuing to speak quickly.
He turns to Variel directly.
”Everyone knows that a horse or any other cattle beast typically lives off of grain and grasses – which means we’d need hay and other feed on board. That takes up a lot of space, and it spoils in the water generally on account of mold and other rot. So yeah, we can have horses on board, - but it’s tricky.”
”However – Cyc ain’t a horse; he’s a hippogriff. They got a different type of diet than most herd animals.”
”Unlike a horse, they’re omnivorous – they can live off grasses in the wild, sure – but just as well they not only can survive on – but they also crave – meat.””
”So when it comes to food, we send out Camm and Cyclone off during afternoon for an hour to cruise around the ship while we’re sailing, they see a group of fish breaching, they swoop down and pinch a few and bring ‘em back to deck.”
”Just like a hawk, or an eagle –a hippogriff looks for small animals to hunt and eat, and they can chow down on animals they hunt, even on the water. That’s why they got the beaky mouth and the forelegs are claws – that’s for rending flesh.”
”Point is, you send Camm and Cyclone out to forage while we’re sailing for an hour, they go out, stretch their wings, grab some food and come back to the ship. And – if it matters, they can also be hunting for extra fish to bring back.”
”I don’t have to tell anyone here that a ship like this is no good for fishing. Its size and bulk would scare away most schools of fish. We’d need to drop anchor and send out boats to fish, and that could take hours.”
”If we were sailing, Cyclone could even hunt by himself, if Camm allowed it – and likely bring back enough fish for himself and maybe more.”
”You all remember when we had to do that damn stupid mission for Harrigan to fetch him reefclaws? Well, if Cyc was doing that, he’d be flying around, see a reeflaw, swoop down, tear it open and bring it back even as we were still sailing on toward wherever we’re going.”
”Now that’s handy for us, and it takes the heat off of Cyclone regarding grub in general, and while Camm’s working on the rigging or pumping bilges, or whatever – Cyc can be lending a hand, er – hoof, or claw, or whatever – and be bringing us back extra grub to eat, even when our rations are running low.”
He exhales hard, glad to get the point out quickly, and hoping it will take some heat off the conversation.
”The only real trick is getting him a place to bunk down.”
”But that’s not even as bad as it might be; again – hippogriff, not horse.”
”They’re used to being buffeted around by wind and bad weather, unlike a horse. All we need to do is give him a decent cover to protect him from hard elements, and maybe some cheap bedding to snuggle down in like a nest; and he’ll be good enough.”
”He won’t need stables like a horse; because if he needs to crap or piss, he just flies off the ship a bit, does his business, and comes back. And he won’t go crazy and kick and buck on a rocking ship during a storm – because banking back and forth in high winds and storms is what he’s born to do. So we don’t need to worry much on him getting seasick, or whatever.”
”Give the lad a good ten by ten place to lay down in. It don’t even need to be permanent. If Camm’s got bedding to bunch up around Cyc, than he can just snuggle up in it like a hawk in a nest. When Cyc wakes up; Camm can just haul the bedding below. All you need over it is a tarp and some poles to hold it up when he’s sleeping, if that - and we can pitch that easy enough on the main deck; and take it down fast if we see trouble on the horizon.”
”The Shackles is pretty far south, too. That means that even during winter months him sleeping on the main deck snuggled in bedding won’t be too cold. This ain’t Brevoy for gods’s sakes, right?”
”So – short answer is this; he can hunt food for himself, and be useful to everyone by even hunting food for everyone on ship. That may even cut down some of the costs for supplies for the men.”
”He won’t get seasick or all panicky – because a hippogriff’s used to bad storms.’
”Finally; he don’t need a stable, or something like that. Just like a predatory bird, he’s equally comfortable bunking down in warm bedding like a nest. All we need to do is make a quick canopy or tent; and he’ll be just fine.”
He takes a gulp of whatever drink is on the table.
”Right. So that takes care of any issues anyone might have with Cyclone being on the ship.”
”That said – is he and Camm able to stay? If so – what are the terms. If not – what do they need to do formal-like to prove themselves?” he says, continuing to speak primarily to Variel at this point, his eyes flicking to Dhaavan, curious to know what the silent First Officer might have to offer and already aware of where Rain and Seijiro stood on the issue.
Dhaavan has remained quiet for this conversation, maintaining a mildly bemused expression as Camm so casually raises Rain's temper. "Let's not go too far in what we're sayin' here," he says as Rain flares and glowers in silence, Dhaavan strolls across the cabin, giving the elf woman a glance
While it lasts a moment, Dhaavan's facade breaks and Rain recognizes instantly the intense fear that filled the sorcerer's eyes on the island when he had been struck by his night-terrors. What concerns him so may not be obvious, but for a momentshe can see it as he implores her to at least attempt to find a way to tolerate these men who are so intensely abrasive to her.
"So it seems like Cyclone can pretty much take care o' himself, hunting'wise, and seeing how he took a chunk o' the damn stable with him as he flew over makes it seem worth some extra expense. Plus Cam's got some military experience so if the crew takes a shine to 'im it'd come in handy to have another individual ta train the men. Flynn'll have his hands full with the gunners, and the rest o us all have our tasks..." Dhaavan notes, regarding the advantages the crew could reap. The first mate is primarily concerned with the strength of the ship, and tactical advantages are something to consider.
"That said, none of us were really at our best but I think the best way to test things is a contract Job, like what Rain's got as our pilot, run a couple raids and see how things go, yeah?" the young man suggests. Then, paying a hopeful glance to Rain, as well as letting his eyes flit betwixt Flynn and Variel, he adds, "It's not as if it is impossible for first impressions to be overcome" recalling Rain's ill opinion of himself, and hoping that that bridge was at least on the mend, even if she still had doubts about him, as well as acknowledging the way Variel and Flynn were no longer at odds as they had been. The sorcerer does allow himself a little hint of a smile there.
Dropping his congenial attitude, Dhaavan takes on the much more business-like and firm voice and demeanor of a commanding officer on a ship, "That said, If this plan is agreeable, Camm, I shall have to speak to you privately before departing with Rain and the Captain for town. I won't have much time as i do not with to delay them, but my business must begin early in the morning and I'd like to be on shore." [ooc]I'm taking the harsh tone that i figure Camm would respond to well. I'm assuming someone of his Order doesn't really take orders or direction from sniveling namby-panbies and in spite of his only contribution in the conversation being an attempt and smoothing ruffled feathers at ths moment he is demonstrating the authority and competence of the kind of person a Knight could show respect to.
Dhaavan's expression is actually rather difficult to properly read. His tone is harsh, but there is a glint in his eye and subtle curl of the lip that shows that perhaps Dhaavan rather likes Camm's demeanor for his own private reasons. There is a sense of approval and that Camm's pride won't be an issue for Dhaavan personally, but he is keeping his opinion of Camm t himself.
Dhaavan has remained quiet for this conversation, maintaining a mildly bemused expression as Camm so casually raises Rain's temper. "Let's not go too far in what we're sayin' here," he says as Rain flares and glowers in silence, Dhaavan strolls across the cabin, giving the elf woman a glance
** spoiler omitted **"So it seems like Cyclone can pretty much take care o' himself, hunting'wise, and seeing how he took a chunk o' the damn stable with him as he flew over makes it seem worth some extra expense. Plus Cam's got some military experience so if the crew takes a shine to 'im it'd come in handy to have another individual ta train the men. Flynn'll have his hands full with the gunners, and the rest o us all have our tasks..." Dhaavan notes, regarding the advantages the crew could reap. The first mate is primarily concerned with the strength of the ship, and tactical advantages are something to consider.
"That said, none of us were really at our best but I think the best way to test things is a contract Job, like what Rain's got as our pilot, run a couple raids and see how things go, yeah?" the young man suggests. Then, paying a hopeful glance to Rain, as well as letting his eyes flit betwixt Flynn and Variel, he adds, "It's not as if it is impossible for first impressions to be overcome" recalling Rain's ill opinion of himself, and hoping that that bridge was at least on the mend, even if she still had doubts about him, as well as acknowledging the way Variel and Flynn were no longer at odds as they had been. The sorcerer does allow himself a...
”Fantastic,” Horatio says with a deep sigh of relief.
”That said, what are the terms of the contract jobs? How long does he have to work as a regular mate before he’s got it done?” he asks quickly, eager to get this done as soon as possible.
He turns to Camm.
”If you come on board, there’s a Code that we got set up on how to act and behave. But I’ll give you the run-down on that later.”
Turning to Dhaavan, he offers a suggestion…
”Look, it seems that not everyone here works as well with each other as we might.”
”I can work pretty well with Camm, but it seems that others here don’t get along too well with him.”
”If you want – I’ll put him on a gun crew for a bit, to get him broken in and all. Once he’s proved himself formal-like; that’s another story. If he’s under me direct than that way he won’t have to be spending too much time around people who he doesn’t work too well with.”
”That sound good to everyone?” he asks.
Seijiro gets up and grabs a piece of fruit and munches it. He gives Variel a pointed look and a slight nod, then goes back to his quiet corner.
No one really cares what I think or what I might have to say, so I'll just stay out of it, but Variel should 'ware my words, the ones we shared earlier, and I'll remind him of them when this meet is over.
He looks long and hard at Rain and Dhaavan and Variel wondering what their takes on all this REALLY are.
Everyone except Flynn seems to be generally against this guy, and still we are considering him. He'd better be worth it. I don't much care for him myself, but it's not my decision. He's too full of himself. Not that that's bad in moderation, but he doesn't seem to have much moderate about him. He is all braggart and self absorption and that does not bode well for becoming part of a team, that it doesn't. We've already got one person who doesn't want to be part of a team... another like him is bad business.
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If Camm can stow the attitude and is even a tenth as competent as he makes himself out to be it is worth a few weeks for a trial run. He will have to prove himself first and even then the officers will have to meet at the end to make it official.. No what Flynn says is fair. Will just have to see how Camm performs and behaves is all.
So Cyclone takes care of his own food, Camm is taken on as for a period of time to see how he fares under Flynn's supervision. He stays out of the way of Rain unless Rain orders him to som task when she is at the helm only if we need another person to help. In the meantime when not with the gunnery crew, Dhaavan trains him in the ways of being a sailor and in the rules and regulations required for being on board this ship. If he keeps his nose clean and follows orders then we make him a full member of the crew. If he goes above and beyond what is expected of him and shows promise, then we consider a possible promotion to an officer position, likely the master at arms. This sounds agreeable as long as the current crew does not object too much to having Cyclone on board. I understand the pros for having him, but I want to find out their position first before I order. In the morning I will be talking to the crew about this issue as well as being in town regaling the people about this attack tonight.
If that is decided then, everyone meeting adjourned. I will see you all on the morrow. In the meantime, Camm as a guest and hopefully future member of this crew you are welcome to stay he for the night.in the crews quarters. Flynn I trust you will make him actuated with everything and help him stow his gear and get Cyclone settled. Jiro tell the watch that the ship is yours and you are in command for the night and to wake you then Flynn if anything should happen.
Now then if y will excuse me I have some bodies to hang on the bow. After that Rain and myself will be going to town, Dhaavan I believe you said you re coming too?
Variel waits until everyone leaves the Captain's quarters before exiting himself locking the door behind him. Pausing a moment, Variel summons strength deep within and trusses the assassins up in a rope and hangs them for all to see from the bow. He places a lantern as well so that even in the dark they are visible. Once that is done, Variel will lower a boat and help Rain and Dhaavan in. Once in town Variel will wish Dhaavan a good night and inquire to Rain as to her destination for the night.
Seijiro makes himself scarce while the bodies are carried out and hung. Nor does he look at them when he does come back out on deck, keeping his eyes averted. He does take a few minutes to inform the watch of their assignments and that he has the conn for the night. He stays awake for a good while after the others leave the ship, just sitting on deck and softly playing his harmonica. While he is playing for his own enjoyment, if any of the crew who aren't in town want to join him for a while, he'll not turn them away. Making sure that subsequent watches are aware of the orders, he will finally slip off to his quarters for some much needed thinking time and then some sleep. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day.
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Perception
As busy as Variel is with first the bodies and then lowering of the boat, he does not notice Jiro being absent when the bodies are hung nor the eye aversion later. Since no one questioned him about his actions Variel feels that everyone is fine with the idea of stringing the bodies up as a warning.
Rain stands there, hands pressed to her sides, fingers straight, eyes veiled. She hears every word spoken in the room but does not react or respond, as if her very spirit had been shanghaied. Even if there is a valid reason to, she refrains. Her words and wisdom were deemed inappropriate, unsuitable.
Rain had absorbed Dhaavan's glance and suspected the secret meaning behind the look in his eyes. She could not acknowledge him in this moment. She had not spoken for a while now and took the verbal blows like a palm tree under the breath of a typhoon. Even as Dhaavan mentioned the Skylord, she was unaware of much else, not paying the sorceror much attention after his earlier secret communication.
Many thoughts came to her, questions, recriminations and alike.
Jiro had caught her eye and given her a long stare. But she had no voice and was of no use to him to speak on his or anyone's behalf, even her own's. Her welfare was endangered now. And what she believed she could trust in was no more than a will-'o-wisp.
When Variel called the meeting to an end, still she stood there and waited, unable to move for her rigid posture. She managed to exit the cabin without drawing any attention and stood by the wheel, looking out over the dark water.
After the assassins' bodies were strung up, she was ushered into the rowboat by Variel and sat housed between him and Dhaavan. Rain remained mute as they rowed into Bloodcove's harbour and then made their way onto shore.
Variel's question as to her destination shook her from her wordless movement. Through the course of the disastrous meeting she had been unsure whether she still wanted to go into town with Variel. And now she was here, she had no idea where to go being this was only her second trip into Bloodcove. "I am unsure, Nikerym. I may find a tavern." Rain's voice is barely audible and she does not meet Variel's eyes. She does look about to discern a safer street to travel but she is slightly befuddled and beaten down. Still, she is determined to find some place for the night.
If Camm can stow the attitude and is even a tenth as competent as he makes himself out to be it is worth a few weeks for a trial run. He will have to prove himself first and even then the officers will have to meet at the end to make it official.. No what Flynn says is fair. Will just have to see how Camm performs and behaves is all.
So Cyclone takes care of his own food, Camm is taken on as for a period of time to see how he fares under Flynn's supervision. He stays out of the way of Rain unless Rain orders him to som task when she is at the helm only if we need another person to help. In the meantime when not with the gunnery crew, Dhaavan trains him in the ways of being a sailor and in the rules and regulations required for being on board this ship. If he keeps his nose clean and follows orders then we make him a full member of the crew. If he goes above and beyond what is expected of him and shows promise, then we consider a possible promotion to an officer position, likely the master at arms. This sounds agreeable as long as the current crew does not object too much to having Cyclone on board. I understand the pros for having him, but I want to find out their position first before I order. In the morning I will be talking to the crew about this issue as well as being in town regaling the people about this attack tonight.
If that is decided then, everyone meeting adjourned. I will see you all on the morrow. In the meantime, Camm as a guest and hopefully future member of this crew you are welcome to stay he for the night.in the crews quarters. Flynn I trust you will make him actuated with everything and help him stow his gear and get Cyclone settled. Jiro tell the watch that the ship is yours and you are in command for the night and to wake you then Flynn if anything should happen.
Now then if y will excuse me I have some bodies to hang on the bow. After that Rain and myself will be going to town, Dhaavan I believe you said you re coming too?
Variel waits until...
Horatio nods in agreement at most of Variel’s comments, but something he says causes him to look up in a bit of confusion.
”Hang on just a second – what do you mean he has to prove himself to be part of the crew?” he says in confusion.
”No – that ain’t right. Prove himself to be part of the officers, aye – but not part of the crew. He’s not a passenger; he’s equal to them, a mate – or he may as well not sail.”
He looks at Variel for a moment, as if trying to puzzle out the decision.
”If you are telling me that folk have to spend several weeks “proving themselves” – what does that even mean?”
”Let’s be honest here; we took Hajen, Shix, Makeem and Reevah off the Rhadoum ship. We didn’t give them a “Trial Run” – they were part of the crew, and they just tried to kill us, and we them – in a figth.”
”After that Reesa, Johnson and Damien – you remember him? That shifty eyed kid with the dark hair who keeps looking over his shoulder all the time?”
”Well, you made them full crewmates too, and we didn’t “test them” either.”
”And than, right after we pirated that Apsis ship; and took the gear and arms for resale, we picked up five more men from that ship. Granted, not even the gods would give those folk a proper name – but the point is; we took five Apsis men on our ship and we didn’t “test them”, or give them a “trial run”.”
”Less than a week after we picked those five men up, we sailed into this port and sold our loot and just divided the plunder equally among the men. All the men – even the ones who just signed on.”
”And when Dhaavan finishes the interview with the other folk tomorrow and we bring them aboard, what then? Will you tell those men that they’ll be under a similar “period of observation” too? They ought to be – considering the fact that any one of them could be a secret assassin that we don’t know about.’
”Maybe I’m not getting your drift, but if Camm’s going to be on board, and if he’s going to take orders – that makes him a member of the crew. He gets treated like a mate; equal – not some lad that we’re “considering” under a bloody lens. Hell, that ain’t right,” he adds, still looking confused.
”And as for the rest, I got no problem with that. And hell, I'll even say that if you think he's getting too big for his britches, next port of call you can just boot his ass of the ship, no problem. That said, why wouldn't you allow him to be a member of the crew?" he adds, hoping that alleviates any stress about the issue.
Seijiro gets up and grabs a piece of fruit and munches it. He gives Variel a pointed look and a slight nod, then goes back to his quiet corner.
No one really cares what I think or what I might have to say, so I'll just stay out of it, but Variel should 'ware my words, the ones we shared earlier, and I'll remind him of them when this meet is over.
He looks long and hard at Rain and Dhaavan and Variel wondering what their takes on all this REALLY are.
Everyone except Flynn seems to be generally against this guy, and still we are considering him. He'd better be worth it. I don't much care for him myself, but it's not my decision. He's too full of himself. Not that that's bad in moderation, but he doesn't seem to have much moderate about him. He is all braggart and self absorption and that does not bode well for becoming part of a team, that it doesn't. We've already got one person who doesn't want to be part of a team... another like him is bad business.
”Why Seijiro – what’s on your mind? I see you sitting over there eating, but you’ve hardly said anything at all except to suggest that you’re not in favor of Camm. What seems to be troubling you specifically?” Horatio says, looking at Seijiro politely.
Horatio nods.
”You’re right – no one is really for Camm specifically. But consider this: after the last fight we barely had enough bodies on board to sail the ship. We need more bodies on board to man the pumps, to scrub decks, and to at least stand watch.”
”And furthermore – he may be a braggart, but he won’t stick a knife in your throat while you sleep. How do you know the same is true for the lads Dhaavan’s recruiting, or the lads we picked up from after that last attack on the Aspis run? They may still kill us in our sleep, if we let our guard down.”
”Besides, he’s one sailor more, and he can fight at least as good as Ratline – and there was talk about making him bosun. That's pretty nice, considering he's missing half of his limbs."
"I like Rat, he's eager to please and a very friendly. But we aren’t a charity here; we’re pirates, right? And just because we like Rat's personality doesn’t mean he’s a good fighter or sailor."
"We're going to do pirate stuff, that means we need good fighters, and since Camm is at least a good fighter, chances are that he’ll be helpful in the future when we get into more fights.”
”And if not, than he dies and you don’t have to worry about him anymore,” he says with a smile.
”Oh come on now; you’re being too hard on yourself. You’re just as much a part of this decision making process as anyone else. This isn’t a bloody dictatorship, right? Hell, if you really don’t want a man to be on board because you think he’s annoying; that’s fine. If it’s going to bother you that much; than I don’t want to make waves, if it’s that much of a problem, we leave him here. But I hope that the reason you want him to stay behind is more than you don’t like his way of talking to people. I mean, if you think he’ll kill you, that I understand – but if you think he’s going to be annoying? That’s a completely different story – if we have to kick people off because we don’t like their attitude or think they’re suspicious – well, I’d just have assumed get rid of all those lads we picked up from the Rhahadoum ship; and even more so with the Aspis ship, after all, I didn’t like getting shot.”
”If it helps, I agree – he’s downright annoying, aye – but he won’t kill you, and he’s true to his word, when he gives his word, and he’ll do what he can to help. What more can we ask for than that?”
Horatio strokes his beard a moment, considering long Seijiro’s last words.
His eyes widen in surprise.
”Ah! I wasn’t sure who you were talking about just now. But I reckon you mean me, eh?”
”Well, I got to say; I’m kind of hurt you’d say that.”
Horatio ponders a bit.
”I remember before I even knew you, when we got into a fight and you were slipping some loose coins into your pouch – and you and me butted heads because I said we had to split things equally and all around.”
”I didn’t know you then; you could have been a master assassin or a secret magi – the only reason I stuck my neck out is because even before I knew any of you, I wanted to make sure that everyone got an equal cut and was treated equally and fairly.”
"Wasn't personal, I know you're not like that now - but at the time I didn't know, and I wanted to make sure everyone was equal."
He continues to think.
”After that I was worried about Plugg and Scourge trying to go after Dhaavan and kill him private-like; so I made it my business to follow him around. They got wise to my plan and sent me below to chopped; that’s when the two knife-men jumped me and I almost died. I could have avoided the whole thing if I wasn’t trying to stick my neck out for Dhaavan; a lad I didn't know, a lad uses magic - I really don't like magic much normally, and he summons demons - I hate a person who summons demons even more than a normal magic user...” he adds with a wink at Dhaavan.
"But I'm glad I risked my neck for the lad now. He's my mate then, and is my mate now. But hell - even before I liked him, I still risked my life just to make sure he wouldn't get hurt, on account of the fact that I saw him as a team mate."
He thinks some more.
”When we started getting the first real haul for loot; I argued for making a sheet to show an equal cut of all the loot. Of course – when I said it, everyone said “no thanks”. But than when Nighstorm headed up the project personally – suddenly everyone was backing the project one-hundred and ten percent.”
”Maybe it’s just my presentation – but my point is, even then I tried making sure we all worked together as a team.”
He thinks some more.
”Now, to be honest – I don’t mingle much with everyone. On that you’re right. I stay below. That’s not very “team like” of me, but can you blame me?”
He fixes Seijiro with a flat stare.
”Every time I talk to people I’m insulted for being “long-winded” or ‘wordy”. So I stopped talking to people, and ended up talking with the other crew mates to make people like you specifically happy – on account of the fact that you despise my long speeches.”
”I try to talk about lore or knowledge I learned, and I end up hearing I’m being condescending, or rude, or disrespectful – just because I’m trying to share knowledge. Maybe I’m not the best at it, but I do try.”
”But I get nasty looks, and anger, and dark comments from people. I don’t get the benefit of the doubt; instead all I get is nasty comments.”
He shrugs.
”Oh well – my bad luck on account of how I talk.”
”But I’ve noticed something… “
”You, and Nightstorm and Rain all have no problem hanging out with each other exclusively. You don’t mingle much with Dhaavan, and around you three I feel like I’m some kind of outsider on this ship, and that any idea I come up with is somehow a problem for you; be it staying the night on the ship for safety when we came into town, to recruiting a new fighter for the ship in Camm, or even having a place to lay my head without having to hear all the remarks because I picked below decks.”
”Now, if you three want to talk to each other, and socialize with each other pretty much exclusively, I don’t protest. In fact, I do what I can to give you space – and plenty of it.”
”I do that because I know you – Seijiro-san – I know you personally don’t like me talking. You think I repeat myself, or that I’m a “loudmouth” or “longwinded” or other little remarks or comments that’s downright hurtful to my feelings and yet I don’t protest,” he adds levelly.
”So yeah; to answer whatever was going on in your mind, I think that I stick my neck out for the team more than I get credit for.”
”And like I said – seeing as how the team should come first; you’re right on that count – and this ain’t a dictatorship – if you dislike Camm enough to not want him on the ship; just let me know now, and I’ll stick by you now and tell him he’s not welcome.”
”Because you’re right – I’m the only one backing him and that ain’t fair. If you or Rain dislike him that much, than he won’t come.”
”So – seeing as you asked – and knowing now that I will switch my opinion, if you say so – what exactly do you think on having him come now that all the cards are on the table? I honestly want to know more about what you have to say, and what you are thinking,” he adds sincerely, eager to hear more from Seijiro.
If Camm can stow the attitude and is even a tenth as competent as he makes himself out to be it is worth a few weeks for a trial run. He will have to prove himself first and even then the officers will have to meet at the end to make it official.. No what Flynn says is fair. Will just have to see how Camm performs and behaves is all.
So Cyclone takes care of his own food, Camm is taken on as for a period of time to see how he fares under Flynn's supervision. He stays out of the way of Rain unless Rain orders him to som task when she is at the helm only if we need another person to help. In the meantime when not with the gunnery crew, Dhaavan trains him in the ways of being a sailor and in the rules and regulations required for being on board this ship. If he keeps his nose clean and follows orders then we make him a full member of the crew. If he goes above and beyond what is expected of him and shows promise, then we consider a possible promotion to an officer position, likely the master at arms. This sounds agreeable as long as the current crew does not object too much to having Cyclone on board. I understand the pros for having him, but I want to find out their position first before I order. In the morning I will be talking to the crew about this issue as well as being in town regaling the people about this attack tonight.
If that is decided then, everyone meeting adjourned. I will see you all on the morrow. In the meantime, Camm as a guest and hopefully future member of this crew you are welcome to stay he for the night.in the crews quarters. Flynn I trust you will make him actuated with everything and help him stow his gear and get Cyclone settled. Jiro tell the watch that the ship is yours and you are in command for the night and to wake you then Flynn if anything should happen.
Now then if y will excuse me I have some bodies to hang on the bow. After that Rain and myself will be going to town, Dhaavan I believe you said you re coming too?
Variel waits until...
Seeing that Variel is about to use a spell – Horatio attempts to belay the action.
”Hold on there – don’t use the spell, eh? If you’re heading back to town at night, you may need it.”
”Let me give you a hand with that instead,” he adds, helping with the rope.
”If you want, I can get Piper to make up a sign that reads – This is what happens to assassins – or something equally forgiving,” he says with a wry grin.
”But I reckon we ought to make some mark for why we got the bodies up; after all – an average lad seeing a bunch of dead bodies hanging from the ship isn’t going to know what’s going on, and that’s kind of part of the plan, eh? You know, letting assassins know not to mess with us.”
He says nothing for a moment, helping out with the ropes.
”Well, at the least we got a good haul from them,” he says thoughtfully.
”When we resell those goods; just think of it – every one of those little metal stars were made of masterwork quality. Them Minkai folk got real handy ways of folding metal when they forge it; that means that’s goodly forged gear.”
He mentally calculates the value for a moment.
”Hmm… standard resale rate for regular weapon that’s forged by a master is roughly 150 gold pieces… and we just picked up twenty-nine of those stars; not counting the wakizashi’s, the armor, the ninja suits, and the wand.”
’After Dhaavan gets the new lads rustled up, maybe he can sweet talk a vendor to getting a better cut for that haul.”
”If we’re really going to try attacking this Tidewater place, having extra supplies before we leave would be handy. And plunder is fine – but it sure as hell ain’t the same as specific and practical gear that we may need in the field.”
”Speaking of which, I reckon that getting some extra artillery for his ship wouldn’t be amiss. Right now we got the catapult fixed on the foredeck and we got both ballista flanking the ship – one on either side, as you remember.”
”But I’d like more – something better to protect us from attacks,” he adds thoughtfully.
”If you got a line on how to do that, just let me know what I can do to help,” he adds.
He says nothing more for a moment.
"This is somehow mixed up in that Shanxia thing... I know what it means to come from a rough background... you want to talk about it?" he adds in a offhanded and relaxed way, but prepared to talk if Variel wants to.
"Camm doesn't seem like a team player. He wants to be one of us, and maybe even a leader on board the ship, but he knows nothing of boats, ships or sailing, and doesn't seem to have anything to contribute when we're not fighting. He's not likable in the slightest and doesn't seem to want to make any effort to make himself likable. You and he are peas in a pod where that's concerned. You've been counseled several times about what it is that puts people off and yet you never take it to heart or try to amend your ways. He seems no different. I don't particularly dislike him, I don't know him well enough to say that. But I'm far from liking him. I'm willing to give him a trial period if Variel is. That's as far as I can say I'd go, and if it were my decision alone... "
He lets the end trail off, the finish obvious. He shrugs, and sighs deeply.
"Look, I'm sure somewhere deep inside, there might be a person who can get along with the rest of us. But he sure hasn't shown it yet."
"Flynn, I personally observe every member of the crew when they join up, and even then keep a close eye on everyone on-board the ship. I just do it private like, as it's a matter for me to deal with. It's just worth making a point with your friend so he's aware of the situation, bein' a bit of a special case." once someone joins they're on a trial run. But up till now, everything's been totally fine with the crew. I've checked via GM descriptions. =]
"Camm doesn't seem like a team player. He wants to be one of us, and maybe even a leader on board the ship, but he knows nothing of boats, ships or sailing, and doesn't seem to have anything to contribute when we're not fighting. He's not likable in the slightest and doesn't seem to want to make any effort to make himself likable. You and he are peas in a pod where that's concerned. You've been counseled several times about what it is that puts people off and yet you never take it to heart or try to amend your ways. He seems no different. I don't particularly dislike him, I don't know him well enough to say that. But I'm far from liking him. I'm willing to give him a trial period if Variel is. That's as far as I can say I'd go, and if it were my decision alone... "
He lets the end trail off, the finish obvious. He shrugs, and sighs deeply.
"Look, I'm sure somewhere deep inside, there might be a person who can get along with the rest of us. But he sure hasn't shown it yet."
Horatio looks like he wants to say something, but instead, he stiffens.
He looks beyond Seijiro, thinking a moment, than responds.
”You should know that I try every day to do what you and Rain demand of me when it comes to how I have to talk, how I have to act, how I have to think – but my best efforts always fail.”
”If I fail to succeed despite my best efforts when it comes to talking to you, logic suggests it is best that we don’t talk to each other, neh?”
Horatio looks away for a moment, his expression hidden in the shadows.
”If you don’t like how I talk to you or act, despite my best efforts, than it’s good for everyone that I sleep below.”
”That way I cannot offend you by accident, which I seem to do all the time, even though I do try. I just can't seem to succeed.”
He sighs, thinking a bit more.
”In the fight Camm did as much damage to the ninja as you or I did, and more then Rain or Dhaavan. But we can’t judge him on a simple equation of who did what when it comes to one combat, if you're looking for proof on his skill.”
He scratches his chin, thinking about what he guesses is the main problem.
”If it helps you, you don’t have to like him. There are many aboard I don’t like. The question is – can you trust him?”
”I believe that you don’t like me; but you should at least know that I won’t try to kill you, and I believe the same is true for you. You should further know that if you are in trouble in a fight, I’ll risk my life to save yours – and I’d hope you would do the same for me.”
”Trust is more important on a ship like this than liking someone. I trust Camm. There are very few people on board that I don’t trust.”
Horatio will bow to Seijiro, and bid him goodnight and goes to help Variel.
"Flynn, I personally observe every member of the crew when they join up, and even then keep a close eye on everyone on-board the ship. I just do it private like, as it's a matter for me to deal with. It's just worth making a point with your friend so he's aware of the situation, bein' a bit of a special case." once someone joins they're on a trial run. But up till now, everything's been totally fine with the crew. I've checked via GM descriptions. =]
Horatio gives Dhaavan a sidelong look.
”Aye – I watch all the lads myself, you’ve seen me do it.”
”But a mate is someone you fight for, and protect with your life. Until they prove they aren’t mates fully. As of now, there isn’t one of them on board who I won’t protect with my life, because we’re mates and that's what we do for each other.”
”I don’t give people trial runs with that. I’ll watch them, and observe them for wrong-doings; but they’re part of the crew when we made them that way. When that happens, I risk my neck for them equal, until they give me a reason not to.”
”That’s all I was trying to say,” he adds.
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"When you choose to separate yourself from the rest of us, you certainly can't make friends that way. True you cannot offend by either accident or design, but you cannot mend anything that way either. As for whether or not I like you, I don't dislike you. If you believe that I do, then you are as misguided in this as in many things. You make assumptions, act impulsively, and put others at risk when you do these things. I find your behavior untenable and your manner unpleasant when you lecture and repeat yourself constantly as if we are all too stupid to understand you the first time you speak of something. It is not only unpleasant but insulting. How about when you know something, just OFFER to speak about it before doing so... you might find others already know these things and don't need the lecture. And when we want to learn more, then we will ask you to speak about it... in brief, most likely."
Seijiro blinks several times, his eyes opening wide as he does so. He bows to Flynn and then speaks again.
"My apologies, most sincerely offered, I should not have spoken to you so harshly. Please forgive me, Flynn-san."
He blushes and hurries off to his quarters, shutting the door behind him.
As Flynn starts going off about Camm's time and how he watches the crew, Dhaavan attempts to calm him, "Horatio, Every sailor on the ship has tasks assigned to 'em and had duties to carry out, and for that they get paid out what's owed em. But when someone joins up, I try to pay some special attention to 'em to see how they fit wit the crew and how smooth ever'one meshes together. If one o' them new recruits starts causin' troubles, at the next port, they won't be leavin with us, they'll be off on the docks. Till now there been no issues, so nothing needed mentioning to nobody."
"So Camm," Dhaavan says turning to the Skylord, "If yer up for it, and yea sail with us, we'll have a chance to see how you fit as part o' the crew. Then when we get back ta port yea either keep sailin with us or take yer leave." Obviously Camm won't be sailing on a ship he doesn't want to sail with, and there's no binding contract being made here. Dhaavan's tone indicates that it is as much Camm's decision, whether or not to stay on, as it is that of the officers, but Dhaavan doesn't seem to expect Camm won't be making his home on the Dread Lady.
WHen the others take their leave, to be about their business, prepare to head for shore, etc, Dhaavan closes the doors behind them to gime Camm and himself some privacy, and sets Jack to watch what is going on outside the room.
Dhaavan strolls, relaxed from the doors, "Well then mate, Yea've done a right good job o' pissin off out pilot. Yer almost good at it as Flynn is." the first mate says with a chuckle. "She an' me ain't always been on the best o' terms either tho, so that can be mitigated, although as a favor to the first officer o' the ship, yea could take it a little easier, save me some headaches?" A little teasing, Dhaavan isn't trying to set himself on a pedestal above Camm, but is rather attempting to cajole the man into being a bit more diplomatic in his treatment of the Pilot.
"Based on what I seen o' yer skills, I'd say yea ain't got much yea need ta prove. We got eyes an'll see what yea can do," the sorcerer adds, stroking the Skylord's ego, noting that anybody could see that his skill are self-evident to anyone that takes the time to study him.
"So first off yea mind tellin me a bit about yerself. Yer military experience, what ya see yerself on this ship, when we ain't in a fight, and what yer impressions o' the crew are so far, yeah?" This is certainly the most casually delivered order Camm's gotten, yet there is something behind the young man's eyes that hints at Dhaavan's certainty of his own authority.
When they arrive at Bloodcove, and Rain makes her uncertain statement regarding her plans, Dhaavan swoops in, extending an arm for her to take in a very gentlemanly fashion, "Well, then Rain, do allow me the honor of escorting you." He looks behind him, to Variel, saying "Cap'n, we'll catch up with you." In spite of the bravado and charm in his voice, Dhaavan's look to Variel says, I'll talk to her, totally non-threatening, but the sorcerer would like a word with the pilot.
Face again changing, he smiles, pleasantly to rain, warmth showign in his eyes "That is, if you don't mind?" again hinting to her this time, that he would like a word, and feels he has a few things to discuss with rain, perhaps some information with his meeting with Camm?
Horatio will pull himself up into the rigging by the foredeck and leans against it, watching the waters which surround the coast, his eyes distant.
Camm was situated – he would join with them, and in time – he’d be one of them, provided he didn’t anger the others. But, as the man was now under his supervision, he’d take care of that issue soon.
He knew, at the least, how to deal with a marine…
Good enough.
Watching the stars a bit longer, he begins to sing softly to himself…
I have a heart that beats…
Inside my chest it dwells…
It longs for mighty feats…
Before it sails for hell…
Oh gods high above…
Oh gods deep below…
I long for battle, blood and death…
You’ve seen my heart; you know…
I seek the open waves…
I seek to blood my blade…
I’ll sail to hell to fight…
Before my heart might fade…
Oh gods high above…
Oh gods deep below…
I long for battle, blood and death…
You’ve seen my heart; you know…
I wait yet for that ship…
To take me from the quay…
I’ll gladly give my life…
If glory is my pay…
Oh gods high above…
Oh gods deep below…
I long for battle, blood and death…
You’ve seen my heart; you know…
Death will always hunt us…
At birth is when It starts…
Yet I shall never fear Death…
For Death won’t mar my heart…
Oh gods high above…
Oh gods deep below…
I long for battle, blood and death…
You’ve seen my heart; you know…
As he ends the last words, he continues to hum the melody softly as he contents himself to watching the sea.
When they arrive at Bloodcove, and Rain makes her uncertain statement regarding her plans, Dhaavan swoops in, extending an arm for her to take in a very gentlemanly fashion, "Well, then Rain, do allow me the honor of escorting you." He looks behind him, to Variel, saying "Cap'n, we'll catch up with you." In spite of the bravado and charm in his voice, Dhaavan's look to Variel says, I'll talk to her, totally non-threatening, but the sorcerer would like a word with the pilot.
Face again changing, he smiles, pleasantly to Rain, warmth showing in his eyes "That is, if you don't mind?" again hinting to her this time, that he would like a word, and feels he has a few things to discuss with Rain, perhaps some information with his meeting with Camm?
Rain looks over to the sorceror standing in the darkness, the glow of the nearby lanterns moving across his face, casting shadows. By the sea and stars, why can they not desist in the incessant scolding? Variel had openly admonished her and she was cast mute and still they treated her as one would a wayward child given to inconsolable tantrums. Rain clamps the veil down harder over her expressive eyes.
She is still quiet as Dhaavan moves forward and gives her his arm. She was well versed with prompting and felt the sorceror's need to speak with her.
"Why would I mind, Dhaavan?" and she takes his proffered arm. It took all her willpower not to react to the contact. Not because it was Dhaavan, for she had grown to tolerate his way of speaking and handling situations. Their approach to any situation would always be different. Rain could not stand to suffer any further false declarations of loyalty and respect when experience had taught her otherwise.
When she speaks her voice is very quiet and one has to listen closely not to miss what she is saying.
"Do you know that it is the wise man that is more likely depicted the villain? Not the most cunning or the loudest, but the one with keener eyes."
Her eyes are darker than you have noted during the entire course of your association. This observation in itself is more concerning than her general forthright nature.
There is a long pause as Rain does not seem to be in a rush to share her thoughts. She continues in the same eerily reserved manner.
"I am never quite certain when it is I am permitted to speak or not speak. The freedoms and liberties are not always distributed evenly from person to person. The Captain told me to desist and I obeyed. There is nothing more to talk about. I am fine."
Eventually, Seijiro will come out of his quarters and stay on deck for a while, watching the shore and the ship, standing a watch basically with whoever is on watch at the time.
When he finally goes go to sleep, he leaves word to wake him first, and then Flynn if anything goes amiss during 2nd and 3rd watches.
I know I need to be here, but I wish too that could have gone to town. Perhaps tomorrow. I never did get to speak with Variel or Rain after the unpleasantness earlier.
He sighs quietly to himsself as he watches the lights from the town. I hope the others are having fun.. or at least talking things out. I am obviously no diplomat like Dhaavan is. I spoke harshly to Flynn and was rude to him. Surely there must be a way to be honest without being rude. My father always said, "If you want to tell people the truth, you'd better make them laugh." I didn't do that tonight. He is a very wise man, my father.