Pyon Sun-Ah's Story

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XXXXCaptain Meghan Cunningham stood amongst the noble people of Astorium in the largest sitting room of Lord Chamberlin's estate, a glass of wine gripped in her hand. While she couldn't deny she looked gorgeous in her attire, she also felt ridiculous. It was hard to move her arms and even harder to breathe at times. Rosia had to lace her up tightly to get Meg the fashionable thin waist, and it was becoming increasingly uncomfortable. Her First was somewhere in the house, being her eyes and ears. Meanwhile she was stuck here, eyes on the man who owned the very thing they were here for-- the updated map of Merrinia. They needed this map in order to find the keys to the lost treasure of Captain Corso. And they need it to find Arimathea, the garden of Eden. None of these places are expressly marked on the map. Especially Arimathea. But it would get them close enough.

It had to.

Meg shifted her hips beneath her skirts so the dagger she borrowed from Vale, her navigator, wouldn't jab her in the thigh. She made a mental note to purchase one for herself the next time they were at port. While she preferred her twin pistols or her cutlass, they aren’t subtle enough to conceal on her person. Not well anyway. Meg needed this to go off without a hitch. She didn’t need the Land King’s navy sailing after them once they left. And she would like to return here at some point in the future. Besides… she was only here to borrow the map.

For now, she was buying time. As she sipped at the wine in her glass—an expensive brand that still tasted like dirt to her—her thoughts strayed to the rest of her crew.

James, the former Captain of the ship was in her brig. She buried down the feelings of guilt deep down as she thought of the mutiny. He refused the journey, the search for Corso’s treasure, and the majority of the crew’s wishes. She couldn’t let it continue. Not if she wanted to find that treasure. Not if she wanted to make her parents’ deaths mean something. Rudy, their youngest by far, was keeping watch on the ship along with Tessa—her master Rigger and eyes and ears on the ship, Vale, Jack—the gunner, Bill—her third, Philip—her helmsman, and Sunni—the surgeon.

Somewhere just outside the estate was Vera—their cook and tonight’s distraction—who was awaiting the signal for her entrance. Meg had to admit, when Vera walked out in her getup… her heart beat a little faster. The woman’s past made her the perfect person to serve as the distraction for the night. Meg did feel a little guilty about this as well. Vera was a person after all and having her play this part was… not the best, but they had no other choice.

Her finger tips brushed the chain of the necklace she stole from the Lord and Lady’s bedchamber. Not only will it aid in their distraction, but it will serve as the signal. It was such a simple thing, a necklace of diamonds and pearls hardly bigger than her pinky fingernail, but it was definitely an expensive piece. Although, this specific necklace was chosen because it seemed to be the least worn. It was buried under a pile of jewelry. All Meg had to do was loop her pinky around the end and gently pull it away.

All she needed now was the go from Rosia and their plan would be underway. Even if it was the last thing she'd ever do, she was going to get that map and find the treasure.

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XXXX Mutinied Captain James Porter sighed loudly as he laid on the wooden floor of his prison cell. Straw crinkled beneath him as he shifted, staying far away from the corner where a chamber pot was chained to the wall. With the waves on the high seas, he couldn’t be entirely certain it was clean over there. Then again, this whole cell was more than likely no better than that chamber pot, but James decided to ignore this thought and stick to keeping from the corner.

He still couldn’t entirely believe he was in this particular position. His crew turned on him… over greed. He sighed again at the thought. It wasn’t entirely greed. He had denied them adventure, he denied them mystery… and greed. James knew he was unorthodox as a pirate captain and that most on his crew didn’t mind. It seemed that his refusal to go on Meg’s wild goose chase was the last straw with them. And here he was, in the brig when not even a day prior he was asleep in his quarters, dreaming of the wind on his face and sailing towards the horizon.

When he woke to the nightmare that was the mutiny, he was shocked, angry, hurt, and most importantly… relieved that no one had been killed. If his family didn't think him a fine captain, then fine. Let Meg squander her winning for a while… They’ll be begging for him back. His stomach growled loudly and by the light leaking through the side of the ship, he knew it would be about dinner time. Vera was more than likely cooking something up in the kitchen for the crew. He wondered if he’d even be allowed to eat. Meg wasn’t heartless, but he couldn’t be certain of her treatment considering where he’s found himself. Maybe she was keeping him alive for his luck.

Or perhaps… his luck had run out.

Although, now that he thought about it… the ship was unusually quiet. He expected a party. Drinking, food, merriment on their victory of taking down Captain Midas. However, there was a noticeable silence. He knew they had docked somewhere, but that was the extent of his knowledge. Maybe he could get Bill to drink with him. Or Phillip. Maybe Rudy? He wished someone would bring him a drink. He needed one after today. And food preferably.

Whenever he closed his eyes, he saw the mutiny.

He was asleep in his quarters, dozing as was previously mentioned, when there was a commotion on deck. He didn’t think it was an invading party since no one had sounded for battle stations. There was shouting and the metallic clanging of swords. However, the commotion was missing the cries of pain that came with a boarding. He crew was never one to give up easily. Well… not noticeably anyway. So he pulled on his breeches and a simple shirt along with his boots and his cutlass before heading out the door. Right as he emerged, Meg was there, her wild red hair blowing around her face in the breeze, shining in the morning son like a fire. Hellfire.

”I’ve come to relieve you Captain,” she said, fierceness in her tone, but an apology in her eyes. ”Come willingly or face the consequences of your actions.” Behind her were the few who opposed the mutiny, on their knees with pistols pointed at the backs of their heads or cutlasses at their throats. No one looked willing to be in this position, but Meg—the treasure—was worth the sacrifice. He was no fool. He knew the treasure’s worth to each member of the crew.

Especially Meg. Her parents died in search of the treasure and to her it would be for nothing if she doesn’t find the treasure. For nothing, if she couldn’t claim it for her family name. For nothing, if she made nothing of herself…

So here they were. James standing in obvious surprise, Meg with a cutlass to his throat, and his crew divided. So, he surrendered. It was better to do so than to be the cause of any harm to his crew. He didn’t believe any of them capable of hurting the others, but they were desperate to cause a mutiny… how far were they really willing to go?

With his mind caught up to the present, he closed his eyes and let out a few soft notes before continuing through the song:

Safe and sound at home again,
Let the waters roar, Jack,
Safe and sound at home again,
Let the waters roar, Jack,

Long we’ve tossed on the rolling main,
Now we’re safe ashore, Jack,
Don’t forget you’re old shipmate,
Faldee raldee raldee raldee rye-dye-doe!

xxxxxPYON SUN-AH

dialogue colour; #fa8072
plague || the surgeon

Sunni rarely got a quiet moment to herself. It seemed like there was always something to be done, some ailment to be examined, some injury to check, somebody to chase down so she could make sure their wound wasn't infected. Honestly, she was glad that the mutiny had gone so smoothly. She hadn't taken an active part, and had never formally declared her alliance, but everyone knew what side she stood on. Meg had a point. This treasure would change everyone's lives, including Sunni's. Sometimes she dreamed of all she would and could do with riches beyond belief. Every time she imagined it, the call to go home surged in her soul again. Money wouldn't be an issue. She could treat who she wanted, rich or poor. And her parents would never want for anything.

But she couldn't go home. Not yet. So instead she took advantage of her free time to curl up in her quarters with a book from home. She hadn't brought many books with her, and all but one were medical references gifted to her by friends and family. Her mother had given her a tale of a hero determined to do good, no matter what the cost. She'd read it dozens of times, whenever she needed a boost or a reminder of home. But her tools and workspace were clean, almost everyone was away, and she knew she'd be unbothered. So she read it again.

She would have been lying if she said that she wasn't at least a little worried about this mission the others were on. It was risky. She had no doubt in the abilities of the crew- and certainly not in Meg- but sometimes things beyond control came up, or somebody underestimated things and it got messy. Sunni knew Meg probably had it under control, knew that they'd be fine, but still that little niggle of worry remained at the back of her brain. She didn't want anything to happen to Meg. Well, to any of them, but especially not to Meg. She was the one who had brought her on to this ship, she was the one who had seen her for the doctor, not the tiny Korean girl. She was important to Sunni in so many ways, and Sunni always worried that she wouldn't come back, or worse, that she would and that Sunni wouldn't be able to save her. She said it was because she feared what the crew would become if she wasn't there to guide them. She also knew there was something else there.

She put down her book for a moment to listen to her surroundings. Somewhere, a man was singing. It was peaceful, that kind of peace that made Sunni fear it was to end all too quickly. But she went back to her book, deciding to enjoy it while she could.

The manifest is set, release the mooring lines
From the top, from the nest, looks the perfect night

So I’ve gone out to sea
But this time it’s gonna be a burial for me!

Bosun Bill was on the mast, watching over the Stardust. The previous events flew by, and Bill was not a fan of the mutiny. Never. A crew was his number one priority, even if they would treat him like rotten fish. The night was quiet, so quiet that Bill could hear the waves and the bubbles they made each time they bumped up against something. The Stardust was rocking from left to right and the laughter and booming activity of the mainland were heard at the dock. Listening to milieu wasn't Bill's favorite activity, so he slid down the mast and went to get his Hurdy-Gurdy.
The whole deck was hushed. The gunner crew and Leigh were the only ones active on the ship, emptying tankards of beverages on the forecastle deck, the only light provided from the silver moon. The pirates needed a break from the weight of the crew's division caused by the mutiny, so they decided to have a drinking party on the deck. Bill was about to interrupt their quiet gathering, and at the sight of an Officer, the pirates tensed up, slipping their tankards behind their backs quickly, hoping that Bill hadn't noticed.
"Ease up, lads. I need me some scallywags for me shanty." Bill then instinctively throws his concertina towards Rum, who barely caught it. Rum was one of the few on the ship that could aid Bill when he was playing his instruments.
"Aye." Ale replied while the rest of the pirates relievedly prepared their throats for some shanty singing.
Bill spun the crank on his Hurdy-Gurdy which was slung around his neck and pushed the keys with his left hand. The sounds were slightly scratchy, though they droned out a harmonic melody aided by Rum's long, airy tones of the squeezebox he held and rhythmically pressed before the 7 pirates sang in half-drunk harmony, a musical composition Bill had made and called Becalmed.

"Becalmed, becalmed, hold fast my friends,
We're far from journeys end.
Through trying winds and ocean 'pades,
We'll find our way again.
Though tales tell of danger,
We rule the waves."

The quiet sonances of the breeze and the sea accompanied and guided the song, which was euphony the ocean provided.

"Becalmed, becalmed, hold fast my friends,
The crest of the waves comes.

Sailing into the tempest,
Sailing through the shallows,
The wind has called our names.

The roar has silenced for us,
The birds fly free above,
And heavens have called us,
But we will not follow.
Until our tale is gold."

The echoes of the pleasant end of the sea shanty filled the night as Bill joyfully proclaimed his trademark phrase when drinking;
"Drink up ye jolly lads, fo' the sun may never rise til we set sail fo' home again!"
Though other matters had to be done. Bill left his instrument on the ship and walked around the ship, putting his Hurdy-Gurdy in his quarters and descending down into the Brig. The deck quieted again.
"Cap'n. Or should I saw James Porter the filthy traitor?" Bill gave a hearty chuckle as he reached the rusted bars.
"I'll get you a drink, sir." The boatswain sarcastically termed James as 'sir', though he saw that his friend needed some grog. This was one of the first times Bill had seen his former Captain so dejected, though he couldn't help but crack a joke.
"Oh and just so y'know, Ye won't be in the brig for long. I never betray me cap'n." Bill went back upstairs to get his former captain a drink.
The deck was still quiet.

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T H EX N A M E L E S S XH E L M S M A N
HEXCODE: #1d906f

Philip was feeling a little buzzed, maybe from the pints of ale he’d left the Stardust to find, or maybe from the brunette boy who’d smiled his way. He’d had amber eyes with a mischievous shine and they’d captivated Philip. Slipping back onto the ship, he stopped to taken in the smell of the sea and the rock of the boat. It was the feelings that reminded him that the sea was his home.

Philip easily found Bill getting musical with the crew, and he had no interest is yelling sea shanties across half the sea. So instead he snagged a tankard of ale for himself and disappeared further into the ship looking for someone else. Honestly, anyone else but Bill singing sea shanties, his pounded from the just the thought. He briefly thought about finding James, but he had no wish for Meg to return and find him down there with their ex captain.

Stumbling across a light under Sunni’s door, Philip barreled in, throwing the door open wide and knocking a few things around as he did. “Sunni, my lovely lass!” Okay, so he was a little more than buzzed. He was absolutely foxed, and probably smelling like a brewery. He put a hand over her book and eased it down, as if his entry hadn’t already garnered her attention. “I’m in love.”

“Oh, what ye got here?” Philip asked, as if just noticing where he was. He took a few shaky steps over to her work space and started picking up tools and vials for inspection, plonking them down wherever, ignoring her obvious organisation. “Meg wasn’t wrong bringin’ ye aboard. Ye really be know’n ye stuff.” Of course, as someone who was rarely part of any fighting, Philip hadn’t exactly had much reason to visit Sunni down here. The two of them got along well enough though, both of them knowing not to discuss the mutiny as they stood silently on opposing sides.

He sniffed, ending his inspection and swinging back around to face the doctor. Knocking over a few more things as he did. “Don’t worry lass, it’s not ye I be in love with.” He eyed up the Sunni, he’d once considered himself in love with her determined, capable, way of being. It had only been for a short while before he realized his mistake.

“What kind of bedlam do ye reckon’ those lassies have gotten themselves into by now?” He said looking in the direction he believed shore was. Philip’s friendship with James might have been influencing his opinion, but he didn’t exactly feel like he was in capable hands with Meg.

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xxxxxPYON SUN-AH

dialogue colour; #fa8072
plague || the surgeon

Sunni's peace was quickly disrupted by somebody bursting into the room. She looked up over her book to find Philip, perhaps one of the few who could get away with such behaviour. She raised her eyebrows at his declaration and the putting down of her book. He stank of beer and was clearly drunk. She rolled her eyes and just prayed he wouldn't throw up everywhere. She really didn't want or need it. At all.

Even if Philip could get away with disturbing her, he sure as hell wasn't going to get away with touching things. Sunni had a sudden, horrific image of him dropping and breaking something. Or worse. Throwing up over everything. Quick as she could, she dashed over to where he was and started putting things back in their place, moving them a little further away from him. Even his compliment went unappreciated. She wasn't sure she could reply in a manner that wasn't sarcastic and sharp-tongued. She liked Philip, she did. The fact they'd been on opposite sides of the mutiny had never come into it. But he was messing. everything. up. If somebody stumbled in, bleeding from a stab wound, she couldn't work in these conditions.

Eventually he stopped touching things and turn around, knocking a few bottles in the process. Sunni quickly caught them and put them back, forcing herself to take a deep breath. She folded her arms and smirked, despite herself, as he reassured her that he wasn't in love with her. Then he started asking questions about the others, and she raised an eyebrow.

"I'm sure they're fine, Philip. But just in case, maybe... stop... touching things? And go sit down? Can't have a mess in here, just in case someone is injured." She took his arm and guided him away from her workspace. She went back and continued tidying, giving everything a quick wipe down. Keeping things clean on the ship wasn't always easy, but she did her best.

"So tell me about this person you're in love with." Philip's declarations of love tended to be involving total strangers who he thought were pretty. It seemed that nothing ever really came of them.

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XXXXAs soon as the sole of Meg's boot touched the wood of The Stardust a calming sensation moved through her body, causing her muscles to relax. The Stardust might not be Meg's ship, but she was home. Ever since she laid eyes on the navy blue masts and dark wood, she loved her. She was her ship whether James liked it or not. She stuck out her hand and ran it over the wood of the side just as Rosia crowed from behind her, "Cap'n on deck!" She smiled softly, rolling her eyes just at a tad at the formality. Nice to have a first mate, She thought. She closed her eyes a moment and when she opened them again, the nostalgic Meg was gone and was replaced by Captain Meghan Cunningham.

"Look alive ye scallywags!" She yelled to her crew. "We've returned with the updated map and will set sail within the hour! Just in case we've got Land King men on our tails!" She looked at the near-empty deck, and her eyes narrowed. Where was her crew? "First Mate!" She turned to Rosia, "Find me crew and tell them all hands on deck. I want Philip on the helm and Tessa in the rigging. Have Vera make a nice dinner for everyone including that rat down in our brig." She started towards her room and paused. She turned back towards Rosia. "Oh, and tell Sunni I'll come by in a bit. I know she gets a tad lonely when we're out on land." And she secretly wanted to see what her surgeon thought of the dress. Not that she'd ever admit it to anyone.

Instead of going to her quarters to change, she made her way towards the ship's brig to visit their prisoner.

XXXXJames's wishes for a drink and company were quickly answered. Just as his song died on his lips, he heard boots coming down the wooden steps to the brig. The man had addressed him as captain and then a filthy traitor which made his hand curl into a fist but with a deep breath, he relaxed again. It wasn't Bill's fault he was in the situation. It was his own. "Aye. A drink would be grand, Mate." He paid little mind to Bill's comment on him being free shortly. If the pirate was daft enough to free him without the order of his captain, it could very well be his head. At least, that's how traditional pirating was done. James... he'd yell about it, but in the end, he probably would do nothing. Bill was family. This crew was family. They just... needed a reminder. They'll let him out. They had to...

As Bill's boots retreated back up the stairs he yelled. "Bring me rum you bilge rat! Not grog!" More quietly he said, "The stuff tastes like... well like you're kissing a lemon. A dirty, rum soaked lemon." There was a clanging as someone brought supplies on board. James swiveled his head to get a better look and spotted Vale, the ship's navigator, and Tessa, the ship's master rigger. Then again they were pirates. There should be no shame in it. Tessa's mouth was even worse than his own. Why the two were stowing supplies he wasn't sure considering both of their duties lie on the ship's deck. Meg would want them up there. That is... unless she was already failing at being a pirate captain. He gave a small arrogant smirk which was wiped away in surprise when Vale came bounding up to him with Tessa's hat in her hand. Inside the hat was a small bird.

He rose to his knees and moved towards the bars. He stuck his hand through and reached to touch the top of the bird's head lightly. It was soft and so very small. "It looks sick..." he said softly. He raised his eyes to Vale's and said, "Does Meg know you've brought aboard a bird?" He looked back down at the winged creature and whispered, "Even still. Best you bring it to Sunni. See if she can patch the thing up." He knew their ship's surgeon was more of a people person, it was possible she'd know what was wrong with the bird.

He heard the clicking of heels coming down the stairs and he looked over in confusion. As far as he knew, no one on board wore the types of heals that would make such a racket. Except maybe Vera, but it was uncommon. When he saw the redhead of Hellfire striding towards him, decked out in finery... he laughed. "Why Meghan Cunningham! You look like a wolf in sheep's clothing!" He guffawed. "My word what an outfit!"

Meg stood on the other side of the bars of James cell, watching him laugh with an unamused expression on her face. She had come down here to give the news about the map and to inform the former captain that... if he wanted he could be captain again he just... had to take a chance for once. His luck would see them through, she knew it, but now...

"Tessa." She said sternly, command hardening her tone. "Valentina." She didn't look at them, but when she felt their attention turn to her, she continued. "To the deck." With a seething glare at James, she added, Now. Before Vale passed she stopped her and said, "Wait here," She pulled the map from her garter and handed it to her navigator.

When they were gone, she stepped towards the bars... and in one quick movement, she had James by his shirt and pulled him towards her. His face nearly met the metal and he cussed quietly. "You will not make fun of me in front of my crew again, is that understood?" She said, her words laced with anger. "Is that understood?" James just nodded, shocked at Meg's sudden mood change.

"Good." She released him. "I came to tell you that we had the map and that your position was free to be taken back, but I think I'll keep it instead." She smirked at him, her eyes burning like the hair on her head.

James glared back at her. "You won't make it a week without me. You're a quartermaster, Meghan. Not a captain. This is my ship. My crew. And I'll be damned to Davy Jones's locker if I just hand it over to the likes of you."

A sadness spread through her core, dousing the burning fires of her anger. "You were my friend you know. I didn't want this to happen... you left me no choice you were--"

"In the way? Yes. I suppose I was."

"This treasure is my birthright, James. My parents--"

"Died looking for it. Yes, so I've heard. But are you really willing to sacrifice their lives for your... suicide attempt?"

"I gave everyone a choice. No one is doing this blindly, James." She turned from his cell. "I'll have Vera bring you a meal." And with that she flounced back up the stairs. Tears prickled in her eyes. She was so frustrated with him. She blinked them away, took a deep breath, and went below decks once more to find her favorite surgeon.

"Sunni!" She called right before entering the room. "There is good news and bad news! The good new is we got the map. The bad news is I had to wear this--" She looked up as she entered and saw her helmsman and her surgeon sitting close. Philip was drunk which was just fantastic. She crossed her arms, her frustration easily racing back to her. "Am I interrupting something?"

xRosia “Jack" Hienrik

Everybody in the world knows
Everybody in the world knows
Everybody in the world knows
Everybody in the world knows

I'm a little twisted, twisted
I'm a little twisted, twisted
I'm a little twisted, twisted
I'm a little twisted, twistedxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxThe Mate//#7C674A


Rosia stayed towards the back of the three women as they walked back towards the ship, finally arriving after a short walk. Watching Meg and Vera step on board, a small but quick idea popped into her head, one she acted on very quickly. “Cap’n on deck!” Rosia shouted, giggling a little to herself before pushing past Vera little to get a view of the deck. Well, she didn’t mean to really push past her, but the dress she was wearing didn’t exactly make it easy get by them. When Rosia looked around the ship she was surprised, by not what she saw, but what she didn’t see. She was honestly expecting the others to already be on deck waiting for them to leave, but there was barely a soul on the deck, though she did notice little Rudy laying about.

"First Mate!" Rosia heard Meg call for her, making her jump a little. “Aye!” Rosia quickly responded, and listening to what Meg was saying to her. Rosia quickly nodded. “Will do Cap’n Hellfire.” Rosia said as she went to start heading below deck. She stopped and nodded again after hearing a follow up to let Sunni know she was going to stop by. Rosia tore her tight shoes off leaving her barefoot, and headed towards the stairs, going past Bill and taking his grog out of his hand. “T’anks for the drink Py. Hellfire wants all ye on deck.” Rosia said with a smirk darting below deck, guessing Pyrite wouldn’t follow her after hearing what she said.

First Rosia ended up running into Julian and the rest of the gunner crew first, jumping onto Julian’s back, though it was more difficult than she expected with her dress, taking a sip of the drink she stole from Bill. “Ey Big Dragon, Cap’n wants you an’ gunners on deck. Whole crew an’ such. See you upon top.” Rosia handed off the grog Julian and continued throughout the ship to find the others, but next thing she knew saw Tessa and Vale coming up from the brig. “Ey? Riggknot, Tempest. Why were ye’ not on deck when we arrived? ‘Nyways, Cap’n wants to part soon. I not need to say ‘ere she wants you?” Rosia asked, she knew both of her crewmates knew their job, and she took off again, not even noticing the small birdie.

Rosia thought about getting food, but quickly remembered she was supposed to tell Sunni about Meg visiting her, plus she still hadn’t found Nameless. Sunni’s room was only around the corner so it wouldn’t be a long walk. Rosia opened the door and stepped in, surprised to see Nameless here with Sunni. “Hellfire will be ‘ere soon. An’ she wants Nameless at the helm.” Quickly after she had finished talking Meg walked in, talking about her dress. Luckily she snuck out behind her when sh was confused to see Nameless with Sunni.

After running around the ship in the uncomfortable dress, Rosia stumbled into Vera’s kitchen and snuck a small potato, equally exhausted and hungry from everything. Rosia assumed that she was probably changing since she wasn’t here in the kitchen. As Rosia went to sat down she made a little ruckus and knocked over a chair. “I am goin’ to cut tis dress up!” She shouted to herself as she put her snack down and started messing with her dress, almost looking like a feral animal.

The manifest is set, release the mooring lines
From the top, from the nest, looks the perfect night

So I’ve gone out to sea
But this time it’s gonna be a burial for me!

Bill had just gotten out of the stores, hearing Meg's orders. He was just about to command the gunner crew and Leigh before he was interrupted by Rosia, who took his grog that he was about to serve James.
“T’anks for the drink Py. Hellfire wants all ye on deck.”
Bill annoyingly called after her as she darted below deck. He didn't want to follow her, the ship was about to start sailing. She ran down the stairs barefoot, leaving Bill again wondering how a person as small and thin like her was so fast. She always seemed so tireless, yet Bill had the instinct to protect her since the minute he met her. She was like a little sister to him.
"Don't drink too much o' that, Rosie!"
Bill looked around, seeing the crew on deck getting ready, though calling the rest was still necessary. He naturally had a loud voice from singing and the occasional bellowing of orders, eventually taking a deep breath and shouting.
"Weigh anchor and hoist the Mizzen! Get the Stardust ready lads!"
That was enough to get the gunners and some of the crew going. Meredith, better known as Sharktooth, hurried onto the deck. She was carrying her spear and hastily approached Bill.
"Are we gon' start sailin', sir?" She seemed tense as she asked Bill.
"Aye. Call meh' Bill, though." Bill watched the Gunner Crew jump down from the forecastle deck, getting ready to raise the anchor. Raising the anchor was tedious, which was why Bill often didn't participate in the activity.
He quickly rushed down into the ship, passing several crew members. He was quick on his feet as he hurried to get another drink for James, noticing that Jules was carrying the tankard Bill planned to hand to James. The grog sloshed around in the tankard instead of the rum James had wished for.
"Get on deck. Crew needs th' arm o' th' dragon."Bill gave a grin to his friend before he eventually passed the crew's quarters and climbed down into the Stores. Like most other bottom level rooms, the Stores smelled like saltwater. Bill's soles were wet as he looked around in the cold and dark storage room. Barrels filled to the brim with cannonballs and some rations were kept here, though the part further back in the Stores contained some barrels of alcohol, where most of the crew would get their beverages from. Bill grabbed a tankard from a small table and tapped grog. The cup was half-filled with grog, and it had the typical smell and color of fresh grog.
But James had asked for rum...
Bill found the barrel for rum and filled the rest of the tankard with it. The beverage adopted the typical smell and color of rum. Bill held the tankard over his mouth and dripped some beads of the half-grog-half-rum beverage. Perfect.
It had the flavor of the 'dirty, rum-soaked lemon' but was perfectly disguised as a fresh, tapped tankard of amber rum. Bill quickly barged through, walking to the brig at the other side of the ship after walking along the hold. Sometimes, Bill would be isolated, resting in this bottom level of the ship. He had haunting memories from his past he hadn't shared with anyone. No one, not even him, knew anything about the strange burnt markings on his body and the same engravings in his cutlass.
He finally saw James and gave him the tankard.
"Enjoy, lad." Bill darted back up to the deck, not looking James in the eye in fear of him figuring out, though he realized that even if James did, he wouldn't be able to do anything about it.
Within the matter of a minute, he was back on the deck. He panted, trying to breathe steadily as he watched the Stardust release itself from the mainland.

---

T H EX N A M E L E S S XH E L M S M A N
HEXCODE: #1d906f

Philip nodded, choosing to believe Sunni’s words about the girls as he followed her instructions and found himself a seat. Sitting down, Philip found the world stopped spinning, but it definitely had a gentle rock to it. Maybe, just maybe, that last tankard had been a mistake.

“So tell me about this person you're in love with." Sunni asked, returning to his side.

Philip sighed and looked to the roof above them. He could recall the boy’s brown eyes, so dark they seemed as if they held the secrets of the universe. And the way he laughed when his friend told a joke, Philip could listen to that sound for the rest of the days. Philip looked back at Sunni and sighed again, a long bedraggled one. “It does’na matter. Our love be a doomed one.” Philip hadn’t even caught the boy’s name before he left into the night, it felt impossible to hold out hope for a reunion.

“Hellfire will be ‘ere soon. An’ she wants Nameless at the helm.”

Philip didn’t need to turn around to know it was Rosia at his back, yapping out orders for Meg. He recognised her voice and feeling no sense of responsibility to be where their new captain wanted him to be, he waved her off without moving, “Aye aye." Then Philip looked back at Sunni with a soft, drunken smile and leaned in as if telling a secret. Resting his hand gently on her shoulder. “He had the most beautiful eyes though.”

Then Meg herself burst in, stopping her tracks when she noticed Philip’s presence. "Am I interrupting something?"
Philip dropped his hand and looked at Meg. “Aye, ye are.” He said before stumbling to his feet. “But ‘aint that be ye right as our new captain.” Then on his way out he turned to Sunni with a sloppy wink. “Let’s continue this later, my lovely lass.”

On Philip’s way from Sunni’s quarters to the deck he stumbled across a half-full mug of grog left atop a barrel. Shrugging, Philip took a large mouthful, “Must be me lucky day.” That was when he spotted Rudy asleep, tucked away in a corner.

Philip laughed to himself, as a powder monkey himself back in the day he’d done a lot worse than fall asleep on watch. “Oi,” He said kicking the boy’s leg to wake him up, his lack of balance causing a little bit of the grog to topple over the rim of the mug and fall into Rudy’s direction below him. Philip liked the boy, he had a sense of adventure Philip recognized in his younger self. Plus, it was nice have someone around who followed your orders and wanted to hear what you had to teach.

“I be needing ye help. So come along boy.” Then headed to the deck, happy to see the wheel unmanned. The last thing he needed tonight was Vale taking over. He walked past the small group raising the anchor, noticing Bill’s usual absence from the task, and ran his hands along the familiar wheel. Well, semi-familiar considering they’d replaced it about six months ago.

Without Vale, he had no idea where they were heading but even in his state he could get them away from the docks, then he could have Rudy or Rosie or someone take over so he could take a well-earned nap.

---

xxxxxPYON SUN-AH

dialogue colour; #fa8072
plague || the surgeon

She just acknowledged Rosia with a nod as she said the captain was expected shortly. Her attention, however, turned immediately to Meg as she entered the room in a dress that just took her breath away. She was stunning. As Sunni scrambled to regain her power of speech, Meg asked about her and the helmsman, and he did absolutely nothing to help with his leaving comment. In fact, it was her irritation that helped her regain her composure.

"Naneun geureul jugilgeoya," she muttered to herself. I'm going to kill him. She turned back to look at Meg. "Our dearest Helmsman decided to tell me about his newest affection. A boy on the street, from what I could tell. I sat him down so he wouldn't vomit everywhere." She paused for a moment. "And also so he'd stop touching my stuff," she admitted.

Her attention drifted back to Meg in the dress. If she had been a little bolder, if she was a little more honest about her affections, she knew exactly what she would dare to say. But instead, she leaned back a little in her seat. "How horrible it must have been for you," she said with false shock. "I bet the men of the party were positively swooning into your arms," She added with a smirk. Even if they were, Sunni didn't even know if she would have noticed. She probably would have used it to their advantage.

"So there was no trouble then? So excitement or drama?" She asked, picking up her book and sliding her bookmark into it. "Please tell me you have some stories, it's so boring here when you're on land," she added.

M e g

H e l l f i r e
C a p t a i n
#e6b800

XXXX Meg continued to stand with her arms crossed against her chest, a frown planted firmly on her face. Of course, her mind was telling her she was being ridiculous. It's not like she had a claim on Sunni. She was allowed to have any kind of romance she wanted. Meg didn't have a say... that didn't mean that seeing someone be so familiar to Sunni in front of her didn't smart a little. And it didn't mean she wasn't going to be mad about it. Especially since their helmsman just waved her off like she was nothing. Like her orders didn't matter. Heat raced up her limbs, her attention no longer on her beautiful surgeon, but instead on her helmsman. Boy, was he in for a rough-talking to later. A sour taste coated the back of her throat as she thought a punishment might be in order. She wasn't one for punishments of the... violent nature, but being a captain meant she had to have better control over her crew. She might have to take a finger...

Once the bilge rat was gone, she turned her attention back to Sunni who was muttering something in her native tongue. The irritated look on her face and the fact that Meg spent enough time around her to know that what she was muttering wasn't friendly... was starting to bring a smile to her lips. When Sunni was angry, she tended to remind Meg of a wet kitten. Meg reminded herself that she was angry with her friend and not to smile... but the self-scolding didn't stick and she found herself smiling again. Especially because Sunni explained Philips presence in tones of unamusement. "Of course he believes himself in love with the boy." She said, followed by the thought, As long as it's not you.

A heat crawled up Meg's cheeks as those dark eyes took in every detail of her, the way a physician sizes up a wound or condition. There was something more in that gaze. Something that sparked a warmth in her core and a quick mental image of Meg's hands on Sunni's waist, her lips at her neck, and Sunni's precise fingers unlacing the backing of Meg's dress...She shook her head sharply. None of that.

The look on her surgeon's face changed. It became more guarded as she sarcastically commented on the attention of the landmen while she was away on mission. Actually, very few men paid her little mind. Any attention given was quickly averted at her terrible etiquette. She wasn't about to tell Sunni about that so instead, she grinned and said, "A few of the women, too. And it was something terrible to be swarmed by so many people. But what can I say? They have excellent taste." She flipped her red hair over her shoulder.

When Sunni requested stories of their mission, Meg's grin brightened just a little. I wish you had been there, too, She thought, Nothing is ever as fun without you with me. Then she started to share the story. "Oh, you should've seen the commotion Vera created." Meg technically didn't see it either, but the aftermath was something spectacular. She could only imagine what the girl had done while they were in that study. "And we retrieved the map. Our lovely Vale is examining it as we speak." At least... she better be. They needed to be on the open ocean as soon as possible if they wanted to avoid any ambushing by the land king's men.

In fact... "Come, my dearest," she said sarcastically, though she meant every word, "Time to oversee the operations on deck and you probably could use some fresh air." She held out a hand to the woman. Whether she took it or not, Meg headed up the steps to the deck, holding her skirts in her hands to prevent tripping. She was definitely going to need to change shortly. She would need Rosia to help her out of this getup. She couldn't ask Sunni... not with the thoughts still swirling about her head. It had been some time since Meg had been... passionate with anyone. Actually, now that Meg thought about it, she didn't have much taste for sharing another person's bed since she had met Sunni. It was beginning to mess with her head.

The biggest problem Meg was having was figuring out what exactly her feelings for Sunni were. Was it because she had saved Meg's life? Was it because she was so beautiful she had a nasty habit of taking Meg's breath away? That she didn't seem interested in Meg? She did always like a challenge. But Meg enjoyed Sunni's company. She enjoyed her brain. Her laughter. The way her eyes took in everything she saw as if to memorize it. Her mind immediately went to the look on Sunni's face as she observed Meg in the dress and a tingling sensation started at her fingertips. She had the sensation often enough around the woman--around those she fancied--enough to know it meant: She desperately wanted to touch her.

This, of course, had Meg stepping away from her as they reached the deck. She cared about Sunni to mess up whatever friendship they had with her... interests. She was definitely going to need to cool off.

She smiled at her crew, moving about the ship. Tessa was up in the rigging, singing a shanty and moving so quickly and expertly, you would think she was born and raised in the rigging. Rudy was now moving about the deck helping Jules. Bill was staring off at the land, making sure they had a clean getaway. Philip was at the helm--which of course reminded Meg that he would need a good scolding later. Rosia must have still been below deck because she was missing from her post. Meg wasn't going to reprimand her first mate though. Rosia had played a part in getting the map today and she deserved whatever break she was getting. "Everything is looking ship-shape, me hearties!" She yelled to her crew as she watched them pull away from land and out into the open water. "Now leaving Hartford Island! We sail for port!"

Which reminded her..."I need to speak with Vale," She said, turning to Sunni, "You're welcome to come along if you wish." Then she strode to the helm to seek the advice of her navigator. "We need to chart a course. Do you suggest going up and around or down and under." She traced her fingers along the map, marveling in the clarity of their new chart. "We'll need to stick close enough to land to supply, but far enough away we won't be stopped."

She could practically see the treasure now.

Hex: #ca8765
Navigator

Being stopped by the captain made Vale almost break out in an internal sweat. She watched Tessa take a few more steps before turning slowly but when Meg handed her the map, she breathed out a soft sigh of relief and nodded. She even did a double take heading up because Vale had to admit, the captain did look stunning in that dress. In her mind she also hoped Eva would be safe for now. Vale knew she was going to be found out sooner or later but she preferred a little later. At least long enough for her to work on the map and hopefully not be caught off guard. With it now in her possession, Vale was expected to get to work fast but the small bird she carried was taking more of her attention. Right before heading above deck, Valentina did stop at medic but she saw that Sunni was preoccupied at the moment with...Philip.

Vale didn't make herself known but she did roll her eyes at the helmsman. You have such bad timing, she thought before glancing back down at the bird. The colorful little thing had it's eyes open now but was still weak. It couldn't move much other than blink at her and Vale felt sad for the poor thing. She softly rubbed the back of it's head as she climbed above deck.

The navigator was just in time, everyone was at work getting the ship out of port. Tess was at the rigging and the anchor had just been lifted... they were finally going back out to sea. Heading towards the helm, Valentina climbed up onto the small wooden platform she had installed herself. It was sort of her own little spot and also where she built in her sundial/compass. She had been working on the contraption for years after learning a few things while traveling with her uncle. Some adjustments and teaks were needed which is why Valentina took the task of building it into the ship herself. Everything needed to be just right for it to work properly.

Vale placed the hat with the bird down on the wooden platform. She took a moment to pull off her jacket and folded it into a comfy square to lay the bird on before placing Tessa's hat on her head. Then it hit her. "water!" she blurted out under her breath, reaching for the pouch of fresh water she had laced to her belt. She shook her head as poured a little into the cap, placing it next to the bird. "Sorry lil pajarito, it has been a big day for the both of us, huh?" The colorful bird responded by sapping up the water. She sat next to it, pouring out a little more then criss-crossing her leg. Finally, Vale pulled the map out and unraveled it out in front of her. Her eyes scanned every inch of it, she was getting deep in thought when Philip and Rudy came to the helm. "Aye, Rudy." smiled Vale from where she sat, tipping Tessa's hat in his direction but gave another eye-roll towards the helmsman. "Philip." she simply said, returning her attention back to the map. Vale began tracing her finger over the parchment, figuring out which way to go best.

Her attention was taken again by the Captain herself striding right up to her. Vale looked up, greeting the captain with a nod and a grin. "Tis a beauty," she referenced the map. "We need to chart a course. Do you suggest going up and around or down and under." Valentina looked back at the map contemplating it when Rosia joined in. “Sorry Cap’n. I was b’low deck with Vera, she was takin’ me dress off.” Rosia said non-chalantly.

Rosia scanned the map they had laid out, mostly just seeing shapes as Meg traced her finger across it. Rosia pronounced the words to herself in her head, thinking back to her reading lessons with Vera. “Whenev’r we go up, it gets colder…” Rosia mumbled out loud, but mostly just to herself.

Vale acknowledged Rosia's comment giving a subtle nod to it. She traced the first path, "We can go up and over but," Vale paused for a moment looking up at Meg. "there is the possibility of running into ice and fewer ports... I don't think going north is worth it. The best is to go under." she explained, tracing out the second path going south. "We'll need to stick close enough to land to supply, but far enough away we won't be stopped." said Meg and Vale instantly agreed. "Yes, if we go under we have a few more places to port in between if anything." Vale pointed out Guicona, Snitinlos, Quinlterra, Isccumo, Serbe, Mobe and Beweyma.

When she went to look back up her eyes instantly locked with the two lasses coming up behind the captain. It was Vera and... Eva. “Captain.” Vera began. Valentina visibly gulped, she wasn't per say afraid of Meg, Vale just didn't want to go through the drama that might ensue. “Pardon me. I don’t mean to interrupt, but we have… a guest on board who wishes to speak to you.”

xxxxxPYON SUN-AH

dialogue colour; #fa8072
plague || the surgeon

Meg had a way of telling stories, one that made Sunni smile, no matter how else she was feeling. Meg had a talent for making Sunni smile anyway, for making her feel wanted, important. She knew she was important on the ship. And, well, for now, Sunni had to ignore the butterflies that she felt every time Meg looked at her with that smirk, with those dangerous eyes. What she wanted was not important. She wasn't about to ruin the ship's dynamic. She wasn't about to ruin their friendship. She had Meg in her life, and that was what was important. She had somewhere where she was valued as a doctor and a person, and that was important.

But when Meg held out her hand, Sunni took it, lacing her fingers through Meg's, and followed her through the decks of the ship. In those moments, Sunni's imagination got the better of her. The thought of running anywhere with Meg like this, anywhere people could see. Of a soft kiss, a shared joke, and of more. So much more. But then they reached the deck and Meg stepped away once they reached the deck. Sunni swallowed and raised her chin a little, folding her arms as she watched the activity on the ship. Captain Hellfire was needed. Not Meg.

The ship was full of activity. It brought back a little of her smile as she watched the activity, and watched as their ship started to pull out of the bay. Meg said she was going to talk to Vale, and Sunni followed. Most of the terms would probably go above her head, but anything for a few more minutes around their captain.

Vera's voice made Sunni raise an eyebrow, partially because of her presence, but more so because of her words. A stowaway. She folded her arms and made the decision to watch, not interfere. She sincerely hoped her skills as a doctor wouldn't be needed. She doubted it would. But still, she watched.

At one point, Sunni started questioning her duties on the ship. Not her loyalties. But as a doctor, she was expected to aid all, no matter who. Would that include someone her captain had declared an enemy? If Meg injured this girl, how would she react at Sunni helping her? She internally gritted her teeth. She'd just have to do her best to stop that from happening. She didn't want to cross Meg under any circumstances. But sometimes it needed to be done.

Thankfully, something about the girl seemed to impress Meg. Sunni did her best to suppress the burning jealousy in her stomach. She watched her captain head back towards her quarters, and simply looked at their newcomer. "Welcome on board. Sun-Ah, the surgeon on this ship. People call me Sunni. Or Plague. Don't annoy me and we'll be fine," Sunni said, barely managing to keep the edge out of her voice. "You need a hand in the kitchens, Vera?" She asked genuinely, turning to her friend.

xRosia “Jack" Hienrik

Everybody in the world knows
Everybody in the world knows
Everybody in the world knows
Everybody in the world knows

I'm a little twisted, twisted
I'm a little twisted, twisted
I'm a little twisted, twisted
I'm a little twisted, twistedxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxThe Mate//#7C674A


Rosia stood and watched the conversation between Meg and this stowaway happen, she thought about commenting something at first, but could tell Meg wouldn’t have wanted to be interrupted right now. So Rosia just stood aside and waiting and took mental notes, waiting to see what the situation would turn into. Though if it was Rosia’s choice, they might bust out the plank for a little bit of fun.

During most of the conversation, there wasn’t much going on. Rosia heard what the Stowaway called herself, Evangeline/Eva, but Rosia quickly dismissed that. She wasn’t one for actual names, as seen around the ship when she calls everyone by their alias and not really caring about what their name was, like with Nameless. But Rosia did need to know everyone’s names since some people still used them when talking about others.

One thing did catch Rosia’s attention and get her a little excited. Meg had asked a question about who brought Eva onboard, and giving an answer that Meg didn’t exactly like. When Meg turned the blade to Eva and raised her voice, Rosia’s heart skipped a beat with excitement, her grip on her pistol tightening. Rosia didn’t exactly want Meg to stab this girl, or be forced to draw her pistol, but it would be a little bit excitement, though she was also a little disappointed when Meg leaned back and the situation didn’t escalate.

Towards the end of the conversation the hostility died down, and Rosia realized there wouldn’t be a need for much violence. She was surprised when Meg said the stowaway would work under Rosia and Vera, depending on what was needed. Rosia subconsciously bit her bottom lip when Meg said the stowaway would work with Vera, maybe a little jealousy, or maybe just upset there wouldn’t be a walking of the plank.

Rosia was snapped back to reality when Meg called her name and told her to follow. Rosia let go of her pistol for a second and turned towards Vale. “If ye need me, I’ll be ‘round, especially if Nameless needs me on t’e wheel. Just yell.” She said towards Vale and skipped along to catch up with Meg as she walked towards her quarters. As she walked past the stowaway, her pistol would be revealed to be behind her back, but she wasn’t too worried. Also, when Rosia walked past Vera, she put her hand on Rosia’s arm and told her to be careful, Rosia replied with a nod and a smile, getting a warm feeling inside before she followed the captain into her quarters.

When Rosia entered the captain quarters behind Meg, she closed the door behind her and quickly grabbed a small crate stood upon it. it would help her be at an easier height to assist Meg in taking her dress, since she is taller than her. “Stowaway huh? Wonderin’ who brought her aboard…” Rosia said towards Meg.

M e g

H e l l f i r e
C a p t a i n
#e6b800

XXXXOnce they left the island of Hartford, Meg had requested that Vale set a course for the smaller islands off the coast of Snitinlos. These small islands were really part of the Guicona territory, but they were so far from the mainland that they remained empty. Well... empty of people. The islands were used as storage for the Land king's men as they sailed from island to island. They were also used by pirates. James's crew had been multiple times to stock up when they expected to be on a long journey across the sea. Or, like in this specific instance, they were being chased and they needed supplies fast.

The island typically contained alcohols, nonperishables, and barrels upon barrels of fresh water. Meg knew water would be the most important. You can go for days without food but not very long without water. And while they'd be surrounded by water on their journey, Meg knew that the ocean wasn't a water source. So, they were there for the water, some of the nonperishables, and whatever fruit, veggies, and meat they could find. Sometimes they found a few barrels of goods that were fruit and vegetables based, but they were only there when the king's men had dropped them off to be back for them shortly.

As she stood on forecastle, salty sea breezes blowing through her hair, Meg took a deep, relaxing breath. She so badly wanted to dive into the sea and swim for an hour instead of lug supplies to and from the ship. They had reached the island now and Meg decided she'd split the crew into two groups. Half would stay on the ship and keep a lookout for enemies and the other half would go on land to haul off goods. She wanted Rosia with her on land. As the first mate, she was technically Meg's second in command due to lack of a quartermaster. She wanted Tessa on the ship to keep an eye on the ship for her. While Bill was the boatswain, she wasn't sure she could trust him just yet. He was the one opposed to the mutiny. Vale would be good to have on land in case they came across any trouble. Bill and Philip she wanted on land with her. Both so she could keep an eye on them and so they could do some heavy lifting. She had a difficult time deciding whether or not to bring Jules. Primarily because he was excellent for heavy lifting, but if trouble arrived on the seas he would need to ready the crew that remained there. So Jules would have to stay. Rudy will be staying too. Meg wanted him up in the crow's nest to keep watch. They really needed someone devoted to lookout so Rudy could help Jules more easily. Vera and Eva will need to stay as well.

Meg felt guilty about having to leave Vera behind, but she wasn't sure Eva was trusted enough on land and they needed people watching the ship. She had enough people joining her on land. She'd have to look for something special to bring back for Vera. Maybe a sack of sugar if they had it.

As Eva came to mind, Meg realized she still hadn't figured out who had brought the girl on board. However... she was spending a good amount of time with Tessa. Meg's stomach squeezed a little at the possibility of her friend doing such a thing without even telling her after the fact. She would have to talk to her before they left.

Which reminded her... she needed to inform James of their leaving. Not to request permission or even because she was in the habit of informing her prisoners of her whereabouts. James was different. James had been a friend. And... maybe she could convince him that things were going to be worth it. As she made her way down to the bring, she decided that she'd give orders when she returned to the deck.

---

---

XXXXEva smiled as she saw Tessa. She had unintentionally been hanging around Tessa more than she should have. She had been avoiding Vale like the plague. Evangeline didn’t want to get her dearest friend hurt by Meg. Since Tessa was with Vale when they met, she decided to stick to her. Eva felt like she could trust the blue eyed woman. It hadn’t clicked for her that if she hung around Tessa, people would think she brought her on the ship. Tessa’s back was to Eva, so it was easy for Eva to walk right up behind her. She went on tippy toes and stroked Mango’s, the bird they had found, head with a finger. He was sitting comfortably on Tessa’s hat. The little fella, who they assumed was a fella, seemed to be doing better.

“Hello Mango, is Tessa being nice to you?” she asked. Tessa jumped hearing the voice behind her. She was getting ready to punch whoever it was but stopped short seeing it was Eva and scolded her.

“Fuck do you want now?” Tessa said, the scold on her face not easing up. Evangeline flashed Tessa a smile.The woman did amused her.

“I just want to spend time with Mango. You seem to be hoarding him,” she said playfully. Tessa turned to start walking away, looking at some nearby ropes.

“It isn’t my fault little birdie won’t get off my damn hat,” Tessa said as she walked.

“Well...can I have your hat then? I’ll give it back to you once I get him on my shoulder or something,” she replied. Eva walked alongside Tessa to keep the conversation going.

“Fuck no. You cannot touch me hat. Fuck off,” Tessa said, not sounding as angry as she would when speaking to others. Eva placed a hand on Tessa’s shoulder to try to get her to stop walking. “Please?” she asked.

“Hmmm,” Tessa stopped for a moment and looked at her. “Fuck your please.”

“If you said please when we met at the tavern, you wouldn’t owe me a drink,” she replied, only risking the words as no one was nearby. Eva got on her tippy toes again. Carefully, but quickly, she lifted Tessa’s hat off her head. “I am going to check on James. I don’t think he has seen Mango since I got here,” she added before she headed down to the brig. As she walked, she placed Mango on her shoulder.

Rosia had just woken up from a small nap upon the crowsnest when she heard some talk below her. As she rolled over and peaked her head over the edge she watched as Tessa and the stowaway interacted. Tessa seemed to have taking a liking to the girl. She giggled to herself when she heard Tessa curse at the lady for asking to touch her hat. But when she heard the stowaway talk about a tavern, Rosia stopped giggling and was confused, The ship hadn’t docked for days, how would they gone to a tavern toge- Rosia interrupted her own thoughts with a gasp, realizing it was Tessa who had brought the stowaway onboard.

Tessa followed after Eva, trying her damndest to get her hat back. As she followed, she muttered curses under her breath. Though they were directed at Eva, she wasn’t expecting the girl to actually listen to a word she was saying. “Ya don’t need to grab someone’s hat like that. Just take the fuckin’ birdie, don’t need my whole fuckin’ hat.” Eva stopped in front of bars that kept James a prisoner. She looked away from him to look at Tessa.

“I said I would give it back once I got him off the hat, but you refused to give me the hat,” she replied, matter of factly. Her gaze returned to James. Tessa’s hat was held between her hands. She smiled at James. “How are you are you today James? I brought Mango down to see you.”

“Ahoy there, James,” Tessa said with a small wave as she tried to grab her hat. Eva turned slightly, so Tessa couldn’t grab her hat. Mango was on her shoulder, but she didn’t want to give the hat back yet..

M e g

H e l l f i r e
C a p t a i n
#e6b800

J a m e s

M i d a s
P r i s o n e r
#B00000

James had been in the brig for four days. Well five if you count the day before they actually left port. He had been visited a couple times by the crew and by Eva. Apparently Meg hadn’t chewed her up and spit her out. In fact, it seems she had made her a member of the crew. It surprised him, but he couldn’t deny that he was glad. He rubbed at the stubble forming on his chin and continued his song, ”Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen. Nobody knows… me sorrow.”

He heard voices and footsteps coming down the stairs and into the brig. The first person to make their appearance was Eva, a familiar hat in her hands and an orange and green bird on her shoulder who was looking much better than when he last saw him. A smile formed on his face, but it quickly turned to one of distress when he saw the scowling woman stalking up behind Eva. Oh Tessa was angry.

Eva greeted him first. He was about to respond when Tessa interrupted with a greeting of her own. He gave a strained smile, feeling the tension in the air. James had known Tessa long enough to know two things: Don’t make her angry and never, ever touch the hat. Unless you were Vale. ”’Ello Eva. Tessa. What brings you to me quarters on this fine…” He glanced to the side of the ship where a small bit of light was peaking through. ”Day?”

By the time Rosia roped her way down from the crowsnest, Tessa had already followed Eva downstairs, Rosia quickly followed after them below deck towards the brig. As she caught up to them, she overheard Tessa and Eva talking with James. Rosia had only come down here when she followed and helped Vera bring James food. “Oi! Riggknot ye turncoat! It was you that brought the stowaway onto the ship.” Rosia said, announcing her presence to the others as she came down the stairs. “Captain Hellfire won’t be like’n this!” Hearing the familiar voice, Tessa knew exactly who it was. She rolled her eyes and turned towards the voice.

“Oi now! Does it really fuckin’ matter anymore?” As she spoke, Tessa made her way over. At the back of her mind she got the thought that she was lucky to always carry a spare rope around with her. “Look at ‘er! She’s a fuckin’ kitten, for christ sake!” She kept moving forward until she was a foot or so in front of her. “Does it really look like the girlie’s any harm?”

Rosia took a quick glance at Eva, who smiled and gave a small wave to Rosia, before looking back up at Tessa right in front of her. “Nay, but ye went behind the Cap’n’s back.” Tessa nodded at this.

“Alright, if that’s how ya’r thinkin’,” Tessa said then cracked her knuckles. What proceeded was something that you’d have to see to believe it. Tessa seemed to pull what seemed to be an endless rope out of nowhere. “Ey, whatcha doin’ with th-” The rope went through the air it what seemed like endless directions. There was cursing. There was kicking. There was a near escape then back into the rope hurricane that was Tessa, a mere rope, and her hands. “Tessa! Stop that right now!” Eva scolded, crossing her arms under her chest. Tessa actually listened to this, but is was more because she was done. She stood up and Rosia seemed to fall a few centimeters onto the ground, now tied up completely with her arms bound behind her back, her legs bound, and a gag that seems to be a spare handkerchief. “Aye, I think that may be good enough,” Tessa said showing that she may be a bit proud of herself.

James sat and stared wide eyed at the events unfolding before him. He raised an eyebrow at Rosia’s accusation. So they didn’t know that it wasn’t only Tessa, but Vale as well. The fact that they had to guess meant Eva hadn’t told Meg. Interesting. When Tessa pulled out the rope, he honestly thought it was for Eva. I mean… she had touched the hat. He was thrown for a loop when instead she began to tie up Rosia. ”What are ye doin?” He asked them, more surprise in his voice than concern. It was the most bizzare thing to James.

That’s when Meg made her way down into the brig. She stopped short at what she saw. Her first mate tied up. Tessa, the only one who could’ve tied up Rosia, standing beside her. Eva standing off to the side, Tessa’s hat in her hand an… is that a bird on her shoulder? She thought she had heard chirping while visiting Sunni the past couple of days… It appears Eva wasn’t the only stowaway.

And James just sat there and watched. Watched her rigger tie her first mate… shit. ”What the bloody hell is going on!?” She demanded, eyes simmering. ”Me first mate is tied up. Me rigger the culprit and…” Then she remembered why she wanted to talk to Tessa earlier. ”Tessa Locke. Were you the one to bring aboard the stowaway?” Her eyes narrowed. Her plan had been to pull her aside and speak to her privately but the scene before her… and with James watching… She’d have to punish her friend or risk the crew questioning her leadership.

Hearing her name - her full name - Tessa knew then that she had fucked up. She let out a long low sigh and turned to face her captain. “Aye that’s the question, isn’t it?” She sighed again, and looked over at Eva then rolled her eyes. “Aye, this is a fuckin mess,” She mumbled, putting a hand to her forehead and sighing again. “I guess there be no more reason to keep it a secret nor lie.The short answer to that, Captain, is yes. Yes, I did bring the girlie aboard,” Tessa admitted. Then added under her breath, “Even though I didn’t want to.” Eva very slowly, silently, walked towards Tessa as she spoke. Once she finished speaking, she took a step to the side to stand in front of Tessa. Evangeline moved the hand with the hat behind her back to give it to Tessa. Her expression was blank as she stared at Meg.

James whistled in the cell beside them. ”Ye fucked up.” Meg’s glare turned on him and he stepped away from the bars. She turned her attention back to the women before her. ”I’m listening.” She took note of the fact that Eva now stood between them. The girl was going to get herself killed one day doin’ that. Tessa sighed once again. She took her hat, placed it on her head, and walked around Eva until she came face to face with Meg.

“The long answer,” Tessa started. “I was at a whorehouse and met this lass. The lass told me she had.. No family left. As you know.. I don’t have any family. But I found one here on this ship. I figured ’oi, this young lass could use some help.’ So.. I helped. Stuffed her in a barrel and here we are now.” She paused a moment for it to sink in as she hoped nothing about her gave away this this was only half the truth. “I’m sorry I hadn’t told you from the start, Captain. But I knew where we were going and that we didn’t need anyone new,” She added, then stood and waited for a reply. Eva just smiled as Tessa spoke. She gave the woman a quick and tight hug from behind once she finished speaking. Evangeline was grateful and now in debt to Tessa.Though, Tessa still owed her that drink.

Meg sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose, the skin tight around her eyes. ”If you had told me sooner, it would’ve been fine.” She looked up at Tessa, their blue eyes meeting. ”But you went behind me back and you hid her.” She motioned down at Rosia, still tied up. ”Now you go and do this?” She sighed, her shoulders rising with command, but slowly as if they were pushing up against an invisible weight. ”One hour from the mast.” She said simply. Tessa had been the one to string ‘em up so many a time. She knew what the punishment was without Meg needing to explain.

She kneeled beside her first mate, pulled the knife from her boot Meg knew she kept there, and cut her loose from the ropes. There was no untying a rope Riggknot had tied. ”I was planning on leaving you in charge of the ship. I’ll have to leave Vera to that.” She returned the knife to her first mate, handle out with one hand and helped her up with the next.

Rosia wiggled out of the ropes and stood up with the help of Meg, and putting her knife back in her boot, nodding her head and thanking her captain. Rosia looked over at Tessa. “Ye still a turncoat...” Rosia said with a slight smirk, she wasn’t one to hold grudges, plus it would entertain her to see Tessa hanging from the mast. Meg shot her a warning look before walking back towards the steps and up to the deck to give orders.

”All hands to the deck!” She yelled as loudly as she could, her voice edged with anger. They would know she meant business. Once her crew assembled, she began. ”We’re going onto the island for supplies. I will be going ashore with Rosia, Vale, Sunni, Bill, and Philip. Jules, Rudy, and Eva will stay on the ship. Vera will be left in charge. And Tessa.” Meg paused. Upset at the words that were about to leave her mouth. ”Tessa is to hang by her ankles from the mast while we are gone.” While she didn’t normally explain her orders, she felt this one needed an explanation. ”While I don’t punish me crew for small indiscretions such as bringing aboard a new crew member, Tessa did so behind me back and was found tying up the first mate below deck. Because of her actions, she must undergo this punishment. Alone.”

She pointed to the horizon. ”We meet back here when the sun is three hands high off the horizon. Dismissed.”

x

J U L I A NX| | XD R A G O N

---

| Master Gunner |
| #B02E04 |

xxxxxPYON SUN-AH

dialogue colour; #fa8072
plague || the surgeon

Things on board the ship had been... interesting. The presence of a new crew member had changed things, and not necessarily for the better. It had at least been quiet for Sunni. The usual minor injuries, cuts and bruises. It was getting to the point where she was almost bored. She hadn't even seen that much of Meg. But adventure has finally appeared. Meg was bringing her on a supply run. Sunni had been fully prepared to try and convince the captain she needed to pick up some fresh bandages, but the captain had needed hardly any convincing. And Sunni was excited.

As she climbed onto the deck, she appeared to be walking into a situation. Meg sounded angry, which was never a good thing. Captain Hellfire had a reputation, and no matter who you were on the crew, you respected that. She stood back, her hand on the hilt of the knife on her belt. She only got some indication of what had happened when Meg paused after saying Tessa's name. She had always been fond of their master rigger, and it was clear that this declaration wasn't coming easy. But Sunni wasn't expecting the announcement. She raised an eyebrow. She'd clearly missed something. Something-

The realisation hit her and furrowed her brow. Could... could Tessa have been responsible for bringing Eva on board? It didn't seem the type of thing she'd do. Even if Sunni wasn't exactly friends with their master rigger, she respected her. But she sure as hell wasn't going to question it. Meg had her reasons. She took a few steps towards the captain as they prepared to leave. "All set, Captain?" She asked.

M e g

H e l l f i r e
C a p t a i n
#e6b800

XXXXMeg walked away from the mast and over to the row boats the crew had readied at the side of the ship for them. She tried to ignore the voices around her. She didn't want to hear the criticism from her crew, her family, for the decision she made. But there were rules, codes, that they followed and if they didn't respect them, there had to be consequences. Otherwise, there would be chaos on her ship. And Chaos... is not what she wanted. She walked up to Eva, wanted to make sure she knew what she was getting into, and said, "I don't know if Tessa informed you, but the ship you're on... Is headed for death. We're after a treasure no one has ever found and many have died trying. Those on the ship right now chose this. You haven't. You have the hour to decide if you'd like to stay or leave." Right before she stepped onto the boats, she heard a deep, rumbling voice behind her. She sighed, knowing the voice of her master gunner and turned. Most of the fight leaving her. "One hour," she said to him, "An hour and a half at the most."

Right after, Sunni walked up beside them. She smiled softly at her and said, "Lets go." She turned, climbed into the boat, and waited for the others to join them. Once everyone had climbed into the rowboats, she ordered them to lower, and just like that, she was off the ship. The water beneath her was as smooth and clear as a plane of glass. The ripples the rowboats caused were like dancing wraiths beneath the waves. She wanted to reach down and touch the water, to feel its cool touch kiss her fingers, but they were here for a reason.

As the boats reached the shore, she leads the others through the trees and towards where she knew the storage bunker was located. "We're here for water mostly. If there are things we are in need of, make sure to take it, but don't take everything. We can't have them suspecting they're being robbed from. A few things go missing, could be chopped up to error. We take it all, and they'll move their stores." She pulled a folded piece of parchment from her corset and handed it to Vale. "This is a list of things Vera has requested from us." Her eyes softened, apology written in her blue eyes. "Please gather them for her."

As they continued through the trees, she looked behind her at Sunni, watching her reactions to the world around her. "Figured you'd want to stretch your legs after being cooped up on the ship so long. We weren't able to take you with us at port." All the fire was gone from her eyes. All the fight. Her friend went behind her back to bring on another mouth to feed. "It'll be a bit of heavy lifting, but if we can find medical supplies for you, think it would be worth it?"

She resisted the urge to reach for her hand. "Is there anything you'd want to see?"

xxxxxPYON SUN-AH

dialogue colour; #fa8072
plague || the surgeon

Sunni had never wanted to be a pirate. Hell, she'd never really wanted to leave her home country. Some people had a lifelong desire to travel the world. Not Sunni. But once she started travelling with the crew, she found herself falling in love with it. Seeing all the new places, the different cultures, the different people... it wasn't the life she had imagined, but that didn't mean she wasn't enjoying it.

She watched with eager eyes as they rowed in to land, the water clear around them. Her curiosity didn't change as they stepped onto land and made their way through the trees. It was calm and quiet, so different to the towns she'd previously seen, and a welcome change to the ship. Some plants caught her attention, but she resisted the temptation to stop and examine them. She didn't want to hold up the group because she saw something that might possibly be a medicinal plant.

She smiled at Meg as she explained why she'd brought Sunni along. Hellfire was gone, and now it was Meg, almost looking tired. They'd had a hard few days, and especially Meg. "It'll be worth it. I could just do with some bandages, and maybe some medicines if they have some. But there's plants here that might suffice, that I can probably work with..." She trailed off, again resisting the temptation to stop and examine what looked like a type of poppy.

"I'm just glad to be seeing something other than the medbay," she admitted as Meg asked her if there was anything to see. "It's nice to see new places, new things." She stopped briefly and swiped a handful of the poppies, shoving most of them into the small bag she'd brought with her. She handed one to Meg. "Especially if those things are pretty," she said. She'd been talking about the flowers, but as she looked up at Meg, another thought crossed her mind, about pretty people. She shoved the thought back. "I love how every new place has different flowers. Some are useful, some are pretty. Some are both. Those are my favourite," she mused. She hadn't had really fresh flowers in her room for so long. It was something she missed dearly about life on land, the ability to pick new ones whenever she wanted, to be able to examine a new type every day if she wanted to. But life on the sea had its charms too. Listening to the quiet sounds of the crew around them, she was reminded that they were the big part of why she loved it.