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Olivia Mastrontoni

Captain of the Jade Moon

0 · 310 views · located in Continent of Drumin

a character in “A Letter of Marque”, as played by varxint

Description

Age:31
Hair:Dark brown, almost black. Worn tied back often with a bandanna to hold it off of her face.
Height: 5’6
Eyes:Dark eyes. They are brown but they are very dark, heavy lashed which gives them the impression of dark pools. She tends to give very little away in her face.

Olive skinned, lean muscled.

Personality

Confident in her ability and takes her ability very seriously. Bold at times, Olivia knows her position. She does enjoy a bit of humour and while she can banter, it is not her strong point. Cold and aloof at times, Olivia tries often not to draw attention to the fact that she is female. She is careful with her words and gives away very little of her emotions.

Olivia loves map drawing. Even though she is now a captain she still draws the maps on her ship. She defers to her sailing master but often checks over details in her own head. It is out of habit not out of lack of confidence in her sailing master.

Equipment

She has her spyglass that she has carried since she was on her first ship. A trunk with her maps and seal skins.

History

Olivia gave herself the position of sailing master on the Cartographer. Bronson, its captain, had a thing for adventuring and maps himself but they tended to be more artistic than detailed and accurate. The Cartographer was given the commission of charting the isles south of Morril. Olivia hearing about this went to the boat, found Bronson and told him he was taking her aboard.

He didn’t challenge her, her ability was clear and he could tell he wouldn’t win the argument with the stubborn woman. She was the only female of the Cartographer’s crew.

When the Cartographer was boarded and the majority of the crew, including her captain, slain, it was Olivia and the remaining crew who brought the boat safely back to port in Morril.

So begins...

Olivia Mastrontoni's Story

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Gareth Fletcher Character Portrait: Olivia Mastrontoni
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#, as written by varxint
Olivia fidgeted slightly. She was annoyed and a little frustrated. Her crew on the Jade Moon had been working for the last week on being sail ready. It had been three days since she received word that the crew of the Obsidian Star, the sister ship to the Moon was to arrive. Olivia had waited for them, orders came that she was to greet them and prepare them for their captain.

Who this person was, Olivia had no clue but she did as ordered and set them to work. The master gunner, carpenter, boatswain and sailing master had arrived right away. Others had arrived the next day.

This morning, found Olivia in a slightly foul mood. Word came down that a marine was to arrive, a transplant from another crew and a former pirate to boot. Also, she was to have the crew ready on the dock for a ceremony. The Obsidian Star’s captain was to arrive today and receive their marque.

And so, here she was. On the dock in the hot sun, the Queen and her entourage waiting none too patiently and the Obsidian’s crew at her side. Olivia sighed a little. Ten minutes late. On the makeshift stage the royals whispered to each other.

Olivia took a moment to look over the crew. Her eyes fell on the scarred face of the carpenter. A skilled man, it was clear the moment he stepped on the deck. Everything she had seen of Shaafir said he was a man made for working with wood. Her eyes turned to the boatswain. The thin, short woman was efficient. It was a quality that Olivia admired and slightly envied.

The newest arrival caught Olivia’s eye next. The red haired marine had shown up this morning with no idea why she had been transferred to the Star. Olivia wasn’t sure that she liked it very much. The crews were hand picked to each ship and it seemed odd that the woman, who had already been part of a crew, had been moved.

Olivia half smiled as she glanced at the master gunner. Truly a man with a passion for his job. The look in his eyes made Olivia wonder if he wasn’t just a little mad. On top of that she could have sworn she had seen him grin like a happy child while playing in the gunpowder.

A sneer formed as Olivia looked over at the sailing master. The man had a grip on the arm of his wife. He was whispering to her and Olivia could see the look of hate in the woman’s eyes and she did not blame her. Olivia also knew that since arriving aboard it had been Pavati and not her husband that had done the navigation preparations. Olivia had already found the man drunk twice in a corner while the woman delicately drew out a map.

She turned back to look at the royals, wondering how they were taking the waiting when she realized that there was another figure there. She had missed the person’s approach as she looked over the others. Olivia couldn’t tell anything from this angle. His back was to her as the queen handed him his marque and was speaking to him.

The short ceremony concluded, the man turned to face his crew. Olivia’s eyes went wide. It had been five years since she had seen him. Five years since the Cartographer had been boarded and so many slain. Five years since they had made port, a skeleton crew and parted ways.

The Queen finished her speech and Gareth left the stage.

She stared at him, her face slightly pale. She wasn’t quite sure she wasn’t seeing a ghost. Gareth. Stepping forward, she held out her hand to him. Her back was straight and she did her very best to keep her composure. “Welcome back, Gareth.”

***

Gareth received the summons days ago. He loitered. He called it preparing, but who was he fooling. He knew what the summons meant. He knew it was back on a ship. He’d heard the stories of the Queen gathering the best sailors. He’d heard the crew of The Cartographer was being called upon. Why not? They had direct experience. He also knew that meant Olivia would be called upon. She would have been the first. She was the one to lead them back to port. Sure, the crew gave him credit. Maybe he kept order, but it was all he could fall back on considering the circumstances. She was the one who kept the ship on course and in sailing condition. He just ensured all her orders were being fulfilled. So, he prepared. He gathered his things. He put off going until the Queen’s men came to physically escort him.

When he arrived at Garame’s docks he saw the make shift stage. He knew he was the last captain there. He didn’t want some ceremony but knew that royals lived on this. He waited until the crowd formed. Until The Obsidian Star was empty. Then, he went aboard. The first step aboard a ship in five years. He paused, took a breath, closed his eyes, smelled the scent of salt water and wet canvas that was so familiar it hurt. He opened his eyes. The breeze must have shifted and hit him directly in his face. He couldn’t think of another reason why his eyes might be watering at this moment. He shook his head and walked the deck. This was to be his ship. His. Since when did he have a ship? He paused at the main mast. He looked up. He thought of the man leading the pirates. He thought of everything that meant. His face hardened.

Fine. They want me to lead this ship? They want me to find this man and his band of criminals? They do not realize the force they have unleashed.

Already he had pulled strings. Already he had used any and every tool he knew about to weigh the odds in his favour.

There are only two outcomes. Utter destruction of him. Or me.

He left the ship and made his way through the crowd. Gently he wound a way to the stage. Almost unnoticed he mounted the stairs and met the Queen. With solemn ceremony and a hard look in his eyes, he accepted the letter.

“Your Majesty, I will hunt this man to my last breath.” He did not make this pronouncement to the crowd. It was quiet. To the Queen herself. Only those closest to the stage heard him and they shuddered at the tone of his voice and the look in his eyes. The Queen herself looked slightly uneasy but she shook his hand, handed the letter and presented him to the crowd.

“Captain of The Obsidian Star. Gareth Fletcher.”

There was scattered applause as Gareth faced the crowd.

The Queen continued, “Now that all the captains have finally graced us with their presence you may all conclude your training and sail at will. You have your orders. Bring this menace to justice.”

The crowd yelled and began streaming toward their respective ships.

Gareth stepped off the stage and was immediately confronted with Olivia. She was quite formally greeting him. He paused. No matter how hard he steeled himself for this moment it was still more than he thought it would be. He could barely nod at her, tentatively reaching for her hand. He couldn’t speak.

He looked at her, his eyes softened. Gareth still held her hand and they stood, both unsure of what to say next. He opened his mouth, pausing too long in forming his thoughts. There was the sound of footfalls around them as the crew approached their new captain. Introductions were in order.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Edusrt van der Zaal Character Portrait: Pavati Character Portrait: Kaitsu Hoin Character Portrait: Shaafir Malik "Finch" Character Portrait: Jillian Farglow Character Portrait: Gareth Fletcher
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#, as written by varxint
Olivia saw the softening in Gareth’s eyes and before she could say anything introductions began. She slowly released his hand as he met his crew. Olivia moved to stand at his side, giving Gareth a full view of the officers and his crew.

She watched him through side glances as they each introduced themselves. Olivia held in her reaction as the sailing master referred to his “wife” as an it. She remained very impassive but it was easy to see the man’s nature made a few of the crew wary.

Gareth reluctantly released her hand and turned to his duties. His eyes hardened again as the sailing master introduced himself.

“Master Lotering, welcome aboard.” He was very formal in this greeting, the welcome sounding rote and slightly forced. He glanced at John’s hand gripping the arm of the woman he referred to as an it. This did not sit well with Gareth. He looked at the woman carefully and saw the hate there, "Oh no, this does not sit well at all. Why is she here?"

Gareth turned his gaze back to John. He narrowed his eyes, “Report to the ship. You and I will have some... issues to discuss.”

After dismissing the mapmaker Gareth turned to the ink covered Demician, “Master Zaal, a pleasure to have you aboard. I look forward to discussing the armament of my ship with you. Please, go aboard. I plan to address all my officers personally once the ship is away from land and officially in my control.”

Gareth then addressed the tall Ergolyse craftsman. In a halting, accented Ergol, “Shaafir, xele.” He grinned slightly, “Practiced that for a bit. Not great I know. I’ll call you Finch here on out, don’t want to further mutilate your language. It is good to have you aboard. Commanding a ship is much easier when she, and her crew, are well cared for. Again, I’ll speak more with you on the ship. I am... uneasy about certain aspects of other crew members and I would like your opinion.”

From one extreme to another, Gareth thought his neck would get quite the workout if he often had to address his carpenter and boatswain back to back too often. Gareth returned the bow as a superior officer would to a respected subordinate, “Hoin, I will not waste more time. This ship is to be ready to sail within twenty minutes. I know you will have it ready. We will discuss further how I like my ship run once under way. Happy to have you aboard.”

As the flame haired woman introduced herself, Gareth thought, "Ah yes. Good to see I had enough time still."

“Welcome aboard Jill. The answer to your question is simple. I have been preparing my crew for some time. Where I could I influenced the choices. Based on reputation I requested people who I knew would be good at their job. Who would fit my style of command. I was not born to be a captain, but if I am to be one I will ensure I stack the deck in my favour as much as possible. So, when I recently heard about you and your history I asked for you to be transferred. It wasn’t that hard to get agreement. I was just concerned there would not be enough time. But, you’re here. I have certain expectations that come with your reassignment and said stacking of the deck. We will discuss them further on the ship. The short answer to your question is, you’re here because I asked for you to be here.”

After Gareth gave his orders to the crew and they headed to the ship he turned to face Olivia again. This time, more prepared, he was able to look her in the eye and smile, “Olivia.”

He took her hand, “It has been far too long and I wish we were able to reunite under friendlier conditions. However, seeing you again...” He paused and looked at her fondly, “It’s not coincidence our ships are paired.”

Olivia had watched as Gareth diplomatically greeted each of the crew and sent them to the boat. She listened as Gareth told Jill that he had her moved. “Interesting....

She was mildly taken aback as he turned to look at her again. This time is was she that reacted visibly as he took her hand. “Not a coincidence? Have you been pulling more strings then?” She smiled at him. Five years was a long time and yet, even with so much unspoken between them it was like old times.

Olivia shook her head, knowing what Gareth’s answer was going to be. “I am flattered that you would have us paired together. I know what getting the Hangman means to you.” A look of sadness passed over her features, something for him alone to see.

She squeezed his hand a little tighter. “I thought a great deal about you over these last years.” Olivia’s voice was quiet. “It is very good to see you again Gareth.”

“I don’t wait for things to happen fortuitously anymore Olivia. When I want something, I go after it now. I wanted to be back with you and I am. I wanted this crew, based on reputation, and I have them. However, it’s just reputation. You have seen them now. What do you think of them?”

Olivia was a little taken aback. Gareth was not the quiet, cautious man she had known but things had changed. “You wanted to be....” Olivia fell silent for a moment trying to compose herself. Her cheeks flushed slightly, uncharacteristically for her.

Clearing her throat slightly, she tucked a piece of her hair back under the bandanna that was holding it back. “Your crew. Yes I have been watching them. Not the marine, as you know obviously but the rest.” She nodded. “You chose well. Kaitsu is efficient. Your ship will be run well, no worries there. She works quickly and don’t let her size fool you. She is quite capable.”

“Your master gunner...” Olivia chuckled. “I would not let him ten leagues near gun powder except for what I have already seen him do more than makes up for the look in his eye. I have only watched him for a couple of days and while I think he is a little odd, he will do you well with his creativity.”

“Now, your carpenter. Gareth, the man was made for working on a boat. He knows the boat, he already has the Star’s ear. He knows her.” Olivia shook her head. She didn’t have the words to accurately depict the skill she had seen in the few days Finch had been on board.

“I have one warning for you Gareth. Your sailing master, the man is trouble.” Anger seethed just under her words. “The man is a drunk and there is no way he should be on your boat. He is not fit to sail a dingy let alone the Star.” Olivia stepped in close to Gareth. “Listen, it’s his wife. The native. She is the one that is making the maps, setting the courses. Be very careful Gareth, it is a fine line you will walk.” Olivia cast a glance to where the royal entourage was slowly leaving the dock. “It is John’s commission but her work. If you get rid of him, he will take her. If you keep him but bring attention to her, he will hurt her.” Olivia stepped back just slightly, enough to see Gareth’s face but still be close. “You need her if you are going to sail. She is good. But his temper is quick and violent. He will be drunk most of the time, mark me on this.”

Gareth listened intently as Olivia ran down the crew. He was momentarily distracted when she stepped in close and her scent brought back many pleasant memories. His attention was snapped back though as she mentioned John and his violent tendencies, “I understand Olivia. Thank you. It is good you warned me. I was wondering why the woman was coming aboard. I was about to kick her off my ship. Apparently I would have gotten rid of the wrong person. I will take care of this distraction before we meet any of our targets. This would not be good to have linger.”

He stepped back and looked her over once again. A soft smile played on his lips, “The mantle of captain looks good on you Olivia. I knew it would. I hope to be welcome aboard your ship some time when we weigh anchor. You will always be welcome aboard mine.”

Olivia smiled almost shyly as Gareth complimented her. “I...I am glad to see you on a boat again. I wish...” She looked to where the Jade Moon waited. “Yes, when we weigh anchor. I look forward to being able to catch up with you properly. Perhaps over some rum, in case it is chilly.” A playful smile now played there on her lips. She hoped that memory would mean as much to him as it did to her.

Memories brought a smile to Gareth’s face. Olivia leaned in again and pressed a gentle kiss on his cheek. Gareth closed his eyes and relived a past moment, enjoying her presence.

Olivia stood straight again, her face the mask of professionalism. “I wish you smooth seas Captain Fletcher.” She turned and walked up the dock to her own ship. Olivia walked up the gangplank, stopping halfway to look back at him. She paused for a just a moment before going aboard the Jade Moon. Her figure lost in the activity there.

Gareth watched her as she moved away. Staring without leering. Finally, he nodded his head curtly and turned. He strode onto the ship just as the final orders to set sail were being given.

Once the ship had sailed more than a half kilometer from shore Gareth summoned the crew to the main deck. He stood on the quarter deck, looking over everyone. Fully assuming the role of captain he addressed the crew with authority, “Welcome aboard the Obsidian Star. Make no mistake, this is a fighting ship so I will demand utmost attention to detail and dedication to one’s tasks. We are hunting a great menace for all exploring nations. The Queen has asked us to bring them to justice. This is my ship, so I will interpret justice as I see fit. My justice will be meted out from the mouth of a cannon. From the barrel of a pistol. From the tip of a sword. I will give no quarter to these scum. I expect the same from all of you. We are within sight of shore still. If there is a problem with my justice, then you are welcome to swim back. If you stay aboard this ship I will expect you to behave as though this goal of meting justice is your personal goal, as it is mine. You are all fine sailors and I will treat you as such. We will have no problems if you perform as you are capable. Now, let’s sink some pirate scum.” With a cheer from the general crew Gareth stepped down to the main deck. The crew dispersed to their assigned tasks and Gareth sought out John.

With a slightly condescending tone he address the mapmaker, “Master Lotering. You and I have something to settle. You are commissioned as my sailing master. The reputation of... your... maps has been made very clear to me.” Gareth shifted his eyes to the woman then back to John, “However, it is very unusual to bring someone else with you. Why is she here? Is she to be a part of the general crew? In that case she can be assigned a bunk below decks, like the rest. And I will ensure she has her list of tasks to complete. I expect you will address her by name and not as property. I will not have people treated as property aboard my ship.”

Gareth stared at John expectantly. Waiting to see what this man could possibly say to maintain the illusion.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Jillian Farglow Character Portrait: Henry Smart Character Portrait: Gareth Fletcher Character Portrait: Olivia Mastrontoni
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Gareth turned from Jillian and found Henry waiting to talk to him again. Gareth nodded at the more formal introduction and was about to comment on an infantryman coming aboard a ship when Henry started on about John. Gareth raised an eyebrow, a wry grin on his face as the man became more animated about his opinion of John.

When Henry realized his outburst and apologized, Gareth nodded, “I understand. I appreciate your concern for the safety of this crew, but the discipline of officers falls under the captain’s responsibilities. I would look a weak captain if I asked my marines to take care of my job now wouldn’t I?”

Gareth gave an understanding nod, “It is rare to see an infantryman make the transition to marine. You will adjust to the movements soon enough. Especially once you start running drills and learning what it means to fight on a ship. How you respond there will reflect more on you than this expression of concern for your compatriots. Just, have faith in my judgement and my discipline. I know we just started to sail, but I think you’ll find I am quite capable of keeping my officers in line. I have the situation with John under control. It will become apparent soon whether or not he is capable of performing his duties.”

With that he gave a proper naval salute and allowed Henry to get back to setting his bunk.

Gareth emerged back on deck, the shining sun and good tail wind encouraging signs. Good omens for the commencement of their mission. He paused, breathing in the salt air. The smell of the sea now reminding him of how much he missed being on a ship. The past, not forgotten, but less and less clouding his present enjoyment. He observed the movement of the men and women of his crew as they did all the little things necessary to keep a ship underway in favourable conditions. He thought they would clear Garame’s waters by the evening and so would need a course charted for the morning.

He looked port side and saw the Jade Moon running slightly ahead of them. He chuckled, “Leave it to Olivia to find the best way to use this wind.” The thought of Olivia made him smile again. Once a course was charted they would have to meet and compare notes. The final course had to be agreed on by both captains. No sense sending two ships out together if they were just going to wander off. That’s why the other 5 pairs of ships were sent in different directions. Keep two together to give them greater numbers when trying to pick off the pirates. They tended to raid in singles since it was faster and easier to come upon a ship unawares. Gareth looked forward to the opportunity to see Olivia again.

He headed to his quarters to prepare. He would have the officers meet before sunset. Soon everyone will see the so called sailing master in action. Gareth thought that before the night was out the situation would come to a head, one way or another.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Edusrt van der Zaal Character Portrait: Pavati Character Portrait: Gareth Fletcher Character Portrait: Olivia Mastrontoni
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Gareth smiled at Edusrt’s pronouncement, “That is exactly as I hoped. If we are lucky we’ll catch a few of their cursed vessels and make a name for ourselves. I want the Star and the Moon to instill fear in all those who would think to take up the Jolly Roger.”

Gareth then watched Pavati trace out the course. He could see her gain confidence as she spoke, but knew there would be a transition. She would be very cautious. To get her best work Gareth had to ensure she knew her place was not threatened, nor was she. There would be mistakes and she needed to know Gareth did not chain and abuse those who made honest errors.

“Thank you mistress Pavati. We’ll be sailing your course at dawn. Plan the use of tides accordingly. I suggest if you wish to predict any upcoming weather you come to the Moon with me and talk to Olivia. She has always had a knack for weather. A quick check with her then you can return to your quarters for final calculations. John is in the brig so you no longer have to worry about him returning to that room. It is yours.”

With that he downed the last of his rum and stood up, “You all know the plan now. Edusrt, follow up with Jillian so you know who the team is. You will be ranking officer on the landing team. I think Jill is still someone to keep an eye on her. This is her first real test to see where her loyalties lie. I trust you will keep her in line or do what is needed.”

He nodded to the door as he moved that way, expecting everyone to follow him out. Once outside he called to the helmsman, “Bring us to boarding range of the Moon and weigh anchor. Flagsman, tell the moon we’re coming alongside. Get them to anchor now.”

There were quick responses of “Aye Cap’n.” Soon the two ships were within feet of each other and a plank was dropped between them.

Gareth looked over and smiled as he caught sight of Olivia standing and waiting expectantly, “Captain Mastrontoni, I’m requesting permission to come aboard. I believe my sailing master is coming along briefly as well.”

Olivia stood, arms crossed as the Star came alongside, dropped anchor and set the plank between the two vessels. The signal had been made to weigh anchor and now the Moon’s crew waited.

Olivia tried not to smile too much or blush as Gareth appeared on the deck opposite her. The wind whipped lightly at her hair. Even with the bandana holding it back the dark strands moved behind her.

“Captian Fletcher, you are welcome aboard the Jade Moon any time. Come and your sailing master is welcome as well.”

Olivia’s eyes scanned Gareth for some hint as to why he was bringing that wretched man on to her ship. She would wait until he came aboard to ask him privately. She would never question another captain like that in front of her crew and she knew Gareth enough to know that something was going on.

Olivia watched him cross the plank towards her. “Well met Captain.” Her eyes cast down just a little. “Come, we can head to my quarters and your sailing master will be welcome once aboard to join us.”

Turning she led the way to her room, expecting Gareth to follow her. Gareth followed, never more than two steps behind the woman. She waited for him to enter and closed the door behind her. “You are bringing that man on board my ship? For what purpose?”

Olivia frowned and seated herself in a chair at the table.

Gareth nodded solemnly, “There is a course to set and we need your expertise in weather prediction. As well, you and I need to be on the same page with the plan for landing parties. My sailing master shouldn’t be staying long though. We have a marooning to plan first.”

Olivia raised an eyebrow at Gareth and leaned on to the table. “The first part I get. Makes sense. The landing parties, of course. A marooning?” She looked him over. “Sit, let me get us a drink and you can tell me what you have been up to in your short commission as captain.”

Olivia smiled warmly and stood as Gareth took a seat opposite her. Walking over she grabbed the bottle of rum and uncorked it. The smell and his presence in the room brought a flood of memories. A cave, rain, rum and a fire. Her cheeks were flushed as she turned and brought two full glasses back to him at the table.

Placing one in front of him, Gareth reached for it and caused their hands to brush. Both smiled now. Olivia sat again, moving her chair a little closer to his. She looked at him expectantly.

Gareth sighed, “I’ve missed you incredibly Olivia. We have business to attend to. However, our ships are anchored. My crew is preparing. They won’t need me...” He let the thought trail off as he stared at her, taken by her beauty just as he was five years ago.

He closed his eyes and took a swig of rum, “But, business first.” He opened his eyes, “Marooning. The lout Lottering, you will be pleased to discover, is coming nowhere near your ship and the next time he sees the outside of the brig will be to find himself left on an island.” He proceeded to fill Olivia in on the details of the events on his ship.

Olivia half shocked and half amused listened to the story. “I am glad you are getting rid of him Gareth. He...has no ability. I am a little surprised he exposed himself so clearly so quickly but it sounds as if he has made no friends aboard the Star.”

Sitting back, Olivia took a drink. “The woman, she will need time to settle in but she is good. I saw the maps she had already done.”

Her head tilted, her eyes glinting in the lamps candlelight. “I have missed you as well.” Her finger traced the edge of the glass. “Will you remain anchored near us for the night?” She looked up, her eyes meeting his.

Before Gareth could answer there was a knock on the door. Olivia huffed just slightly in annoyance. “Come!”

The door opened. A young man, the cabin boy appeared in the doorway. Behind him was the native woman. Olivia could see how unsure the woman appeared. Gareth stood.

“Cap’n. I’ve tha sailin’ masta from tha Sta.” He stepped aside. Olivia now stood. “Come in Mistress...” She looked at Gareth for the woman’s name again.

“Pavati”

Olivia nodded her thanks as the sailing master entered and the door was closed behind her. “Please sit, we have weather to discuss but I promise not to keep you. A good night’s sleep is needed before the journey on the morning tide.”

As Pavati sat Olivia pulled a map over and in front of them. Gareth sat again and watched the women deep in conversation. Olivia gently coaxed the obviously nervous woman along and soon the two were discussing the course that had been plotted for both the marooning and the attack on the pirates base of operations. Winds, tides and everything under the sun was discussed and soon the conversation came to a close.

Pavati stood as Olivia did. “Thank you Mistress Pavati. I believe we have a good course plotted.”

Cautiously, still wobbly on legs not used to the ocean’s rhythms, Pavati made her way to the door. Bidding good night to the two captains she exited the room.

Olivia sat again. “She is frightened, nervous and bound to make small mistakes before her nerves calm down. We corrected a few things, minor really. She hasn’t been on a boat before and yet her skill is apparent. She will make a fine sailing master for you” Olivia cast a sidelong look at Gareth. “Not as good as I was when we sailed together but I trust your ship in her hands”

A light laugh escaped before she took another drink. “Tell me, are the rest of your crew working out the way you seemed to have planned? What about the former pirate? And this plan for the cove? Did I see that correctly? We are going to take out the cannons?” Olivia relaxed in her chair. There was no need for the formality with him.

Gareth nodded with relief, “Good. I trusted your opinion of her, but now that she has actually done the work I wanted a second confirmation. I suspect there are a few things that left in your hands would be treated better, but it’s good to hear the ship will be well treated. As for the other things, the Moon should never be far from the Stars.”

Olivia’s eyes softened, looking across at the man she had barely seen in the last five years but had thought about constantly. Their brief and infrequent letters had been enough to keep memories and feelings vibrant. She reached out to lay her hand on his. “You will always be welcome and treated well on this ship.”

He looked up at her and turned his hand to grasp hers, “Thank you.”

Once again, reluctantly returning to the questions at hand, “The rest of the crew are anxious to get started. The issues with Lottering have seemed to draw the officers together, but I will have to address the rest of the crew. They will want to know what earns a marooning on my ship. That will come. As for Jill, she seems earnest so far, but I have Zaal watching her. Just in case. And yes, my plan is to land two parties, one from the Moon and one from the Star. Zaal is going to claim the defenses and turn them on any ships in the cove. If you have a gunner that is capable of taking on new weaponry quickly, like Zaal, then send them with the party. Otherwise tell them to spike the gun. Once the guns are down we’ll take our ships into the cove and finish off any scum that are left. Olivia, none of these pirates are sailing out of the cove.”

His eyes hardened with the last statement. There Olivia could see a coldness that never existed before.

She listened intently. The plan was sound but the look that appeared gave her pause. “My gunner will spike the cannon. He is good but your man sounds more on the upswing of this sort of thing. I would be afraid of my man blowing himself up by tinkering too much.” She called for her cabin boy. He quickly came in, her orders relayed and he exited just as quickly.

Olivia returned her attention to Gareth. His hand was squeezing hers by the last statement. Not hard but enough to make her frown. “Gareth....” Her tone softened. She had been there five years ago, she had seen. “You know that hunting them down, stopping them cannot bring them back. It cannot bring him back.”

Now she squeezed his hand. “Will you stay with me tonight?”

Gareth frowned at her before finally softening. The coldness dissipating and leaving behind a look of pure loss and sadness. He squeezed her hand back and replied, his voice hoarse with emotion, “Yes.”

Olivia stood, secured her door and took his hand as she extinguished all but one of the lamps.

*

Outside, the crew of the Moon was milling about. The captain had ordered them ready for a landing party in the morning and the sailing master was going over the course the two ships would take. A short time later everything had been taken care of as per the captain’s orders and now, the rum was flowing. Enough to enjoy but not enough to cause the crew to be dulled in their senses the next morning. Some of them had gone across, mingling with the crew of the Star.

The crew on the Star were initially subdued by the parading of Lottering to the brig. However, the push of men and women from the Moon was enough to raise their spirits and forget their questions for the moment. Merriment ensued as the two crews got to know one another.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Edusrt van der Zaal Character Portrait: Pavati Character Portrait: Kaitsu Hoin Character Portrait: Catalina Austerlitz Character Portrait: Shaafir Malik "Finch" Character Portrait: Jillian Farglow
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The captain thanked her and Pavati still did not feel as if the situation was real. She was still waiting for John to reappear, to grab her and drag her back to his room, for the familiar pain....

Pavati nodded, a small movement in acknowledgement. Her heart was truly threatening to break out of her ribs. Discussing with another? Not to be questioned but for a conversation so calculations could be tweaked. She was glad her good hand was in her lap, made it easier to hide the trembling of her nerves.

Her eyes flashed in confusion. “...then you can return to your quarters for final....” Pavati did not understand. It had not occurred to her that she would have quarters. In truth she hadn't thought ahead about anything. Everything had changed so quickly, everything about her life was altered in less than an hour that she hadn't had the proper time to think ahead.

“John is in the brig so you no longer have to worry about him returning to that room. It is yours.”

Pavati watched Gareth finish his drink as if he had said something very natural and insignificant. He had just given her a room, a place to put her head that was hers. She did not understand. Hers. It had been a very long time since Pavati could claim anything as hers, minus the chain that John constantly stated belonged to her.

She sat silent, attempting to come to terms with the fact that she would have a place to sleep that did not involve that man or a chain. Around her the others were moving, standing and heading out to the deck. There was talk about the former pirate but Pavati could not think on that now.

Tentatively she rolled up the map and tried to do her best to smoothly follow the others out. She felt a bit of a fraud but a small voice reminded her that was just the lack of experience on a ship and at sea talking. That voice was almost too quiet at the moment but it was enough to keep her moving, holding her head up.

Nestling the map into the sling on her bad arm, Pavati walked slowly towards the door to her quarters. Standing there she stared at the closed door. She could not bring herself to open it. Her body rocked gently with the boat as she faced the wooden portal to the small cabin. Three times her hand reached out to open the door, three times it lowered back to her side.

“Open it. Open it and go in. It is yours now.” Somehow she was not convincing enough. Years she wanted to escape his presence, his anger and abuse. Now she had it, granted to her by a crew that seemed to see John for what he truly was and despised him for it, yet she couldn't take the final step.

Around her the crew was busy. It was as if she stood and time was going on around her. All she had to do was open the door and instead Pavati stared at it.

A call, a request to go aboard and mention of a sailing master.

Pavati turned. Somehow in the time she was standing there in a silent war with the door the two ships had come alongside each other and the plank was dropped.

Sailing master. He was talking about her. He expected her to go with him to The Jade Moon, to meet with the captain there. It wasn't the woman that was making Pavati's stomach churn with fresh nerves. She watched as Gareth crossed the plank between the two ships. Swallowing, she found her mouth dry.

Pavati walked very slowly towards the plank. Each step caused her throat to tighten, making it hard to breathe. There was nothing stopping her from toppling off the wood into the water. If she fell into the water she was dead.

“I should have finished the rum....” Whispered more for herself than anyone else.

Pavati's dark eyes closed as she stood at the edge and stared across to the other ship. She opened them after a few deep breaths. Checking the map again, ensuring it was secure in her sling still, Pavati stepped onto the plank. She froze.

Under her feet the sea was moving. Not much, a gentle wave of a calm ocean but to her it felt like a storm was raging. The native woman stood there, unable to make her feet move forward. Gareth had long since crossed and was in the captain's cabin now, they would be waiting for her.

“Move...move....please move...” She silently begged her feet not to give in to the fear that was gripping her stomach.

One foot moved, a step taken closer to the Jade Moon. Another. Pavati felt as if she was going to be sick. A sweat broke out on her tan skin. Another step, shakier than it two predecessors. The deck seemed so far away still. She didn't dare look behind her and the gods help her if she looked down.

More steps. More bile rising, burning her throat. Willing it to stay down, Pavati kept moving. Her feet reached the deck of the Jade Moon and Pavati wiped her forehead. Black hair plastered lightly to her forehead as she ran slender fingers there.

Holding her head up she looked around. She was here but she had no idea of where to go. A young man slipped up beside her.

“Sailin' Masta? Cap'ns waitin'”

Pavati nodded weakly and followed as he made his way quickly through the crew. She didn't look around but focused on where he went. It was too much, overwhelming noise and movement. The boy knocked on a door. Pavati closed her eyes. “Do not, do not succumb.” She bit her cheek to force the tears away.

She was bid enter by the female captain, Gareth reminding the woman of her name. Moving into the room she realized that there was no one else there, just the two captains. Olivia asked her to sit and gratefully Pavati did. Her legs went to jelly as she sat into one of the free chairs.

A map was pulled over and as Olivia began to talk to her Pavati felt her shoulders relax. It was not long before they were discussing the tides, the weather and the course that had been set. Answers were slow and quiet at first but something about Olivia's nature put Pavati at ease and soon the conversation became and easy discussion of tides and obstacles. Gareth had been correct, Olivia was very good when it came to weather. Pavati listened intently, making mental notes as to things she could fix, ways to tweak the course that had been set and items to consider in the future. She soaked up the information as if it was her dying breath.

A natural end to the topic came and with a smile Olivia nodded. Pavati stood. Sitting had taken a toll as had the stress of the journey across between the ships and her legs were unstable again as she made her way to the door.

“Good night to you captains. I will go and work on the map. It will be ready for the morning.”

With that Pavati stepped out into the sea air.

Around her the normal sailing activities had made way to revelry. The crews seemed to be crossing freely between ships. Games of chance, many conversations and laughter bombarded her. Setting her jaw, Pavati focused on her task. She needed to cross to the Obsidian Star.

Making her way to the plank, fear gripped her again. Fingers dug into her palm. “Do not let this fear beat you...” She had been told a great many stories as a child. Stories of battles and the courage of her ancestors. Courage of warriors. “Where is that courage now?” Perhaps it had left years ago when her people forgot about their ways and began to rely so heavily on those that landed on their shores. Perhaps it had left when they sold her.

Pavati resolved to find it again, to build it anew. She would find it and make her own place. On the ship, where Gareth had given her the chance.

Focusing on the Star, finding a point on the mast to stare at, Pavati stepped onto the plank and moved across. Stepping foot on the Star she kept walking and soon found herself in front of the door again. Anger burned a little in her eyes. If the plank and unsteadiness of her legs on the ship was not going to best her than a door certainly wasn't going to either.

Her hand reached out, gripped the handle and opened the door with a forceful push. It wasn't needed in terms of opening the portal but it was needed. Pavati stepped inside. It was messy, John had obviously paced and fumed after she had left with the woman and the carpenter.

Closing the door, a momentary panic set in. She waited expectantly for a yank, a snarl...they wouldn't come, she knew that but it did not stop her body from reacting to the darkness and isolation of the room.

Soft steps took her to the table where she lit the lamp, casting shadows across the room. Mechanically she removed the map from her sling, laying it on the table and began to pick up the mess he had made. It was no different than any other night.

No. It was different. Pavati looked at the bunk. Unlike at home or in the short time they had been aboard John's unconscious body was not splayed out in the bed. There was no one in the room with her and she did not have to clean to avoid punishment. She frowned, suddenly unsure of her own actions.

The rest of the room was reset and slowly she unfurled the map and took a seat. Pavati poured over the map, correcting what she and Olivia had discussed, and making notes on another paper. Things Olivia had told her, things to look for and ways she could improve. Determination set in. The map would meet Captain Fletcher's expectation and the next would be just as good.

Time flowed by and eventually, hands stained with ink rubbed tired eyes. Something happened to the woman's mouth, something that hadn't happened in many, many years and a feeling formed in her chest. Pavati was smiling, it was small but it was a smile and as she looked down at her work, a map for her captain pride set into her chest. It was a small seed but had the potential to grow greatly.

Leaving it out, held down to allow the ink to dry, Pavati prepared for bed. Cautious steps padded to the chest where she extracted her comb. Eyes darted, ears listening for a man's heavy footfalls as she quickly combed the dark strands. It was only when she finished removing the tangles that Pavati remembered she was alone.

Alone. Completely.

Pavati felt the weariness of the day settle into her bones. She became aware of the ache in her arm. She faced the table, bunk to her right and looked between it and the floor. The chain was gone, brought to the captain earlier. The floor had been her bed for such a long time but she did not have to rest there now.

The woman sat stiffly on the edge of the bunk. Slowly she laid out on the bunk, body straight and stiff. The only time John allowed her near the bed was to...Pavati bolted up, sitting back on the edge of the bed. Those instances were few and far between thankfully. The drinking served to save her in that respect. She still couldn't shake the feeling and began to breathe deeply in and out, an effort to calm herself.

It did not work, instead the breathing only served to provoke her stomach in its desire to empty itself out. Moving quickly she found the small pot for relieving oneself and proceeded to let her body do what it wanted.

By the time she was done tears flowed down her cheeks and she was gasping in an effort to get enough air into her struggling lungs. Placing the pot down she climbed back into the bunk. This time the exhausted body and mind won out. Pavati curled up in a ball, hugging her slung arm.

Soft sobs, coming from her very core began. Every bruise, broken bone, uttered threat and biting insult. Every fear and bit of anger she had ever felt, had held in came out.

Her body curled tighter and the sobs kept coming until there was nothing left but exhaustion and then, sleep.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Edusrt van der Zaal Character Portrait: Pavati Character Portrait: Kaitsu Hoin Character Portrait: Catalina Austerlitz Character Portrait: Shaafir Malik "Finch" Character Portrait: Jillian Farglow
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#, as written by varxint
The morning sun broke over the water’s edge. Orange and pink and purple coloured the sky and the water. There was just enough breeze to sail by but not enough to make the water too choppy so the colours flowed and meshed, making it hard to tell where sky ended and ocean began. It was just the kind of sunrise that Maxime lived for. The reason he came to sea and stayed there, was to see beauty one could not experience on land. Through the slight waver of the hangover Maxime was still breathlessly watching the horizon from his perch high above deck. He could hear the rest of the crew beginning to waken and say their goodbyes as they returned to their own ship or helped their fellows to theirs.

Maxime smiled as the memories of the previous night came back to him. Some might think allowing the crews to carouse as they would showed a lack of discipline on the captains part. Maxime disagreed. The camaraderie that both crews established, and the mingling of the sailors and marines, would go a long way in the coming battles.

While the anecdotes and actions of last night reverberated through his memories, Maxime watched the sun continue to rise. Eventually the whistle calling the crew to assemble broke him out of his reverie and he slid down the ropes to join the others facing a very formal looking Gareth.

*
Ryo stood at the helm of the Jade Moon. Though he noticed the wondrous sunrise he was focused on his task at hand. Carefully separating the ships again, now that the two crews had mostly been able to return to their appropriate assignments. Ryo smirked slightly at the thought of those few who, too hungover to wake, were going to have to beg a row to their home ship. He wondered how many would try to pretend to be members of the crew of the ship they awoke on, just to avoid the embarrassment.

His smirk turned into a genuine smile as he thought of the woman he met last night. No doubt Kaitsu would be having a similar experience, getting her ship in order. And though he knew she would be completely focused on her task he still wondered if she thought fondly of their too brief card game. Next time, I will bring the sake, he thought as he deftly moved the Moon into a parallel path to the Star.

*
Jillian’s head throbbed with each gentle rock of the ship. She was half convinced the Obsidian Star had run into a storm given how queasy her stomach felt. Yet when she opened her eyes and saw the blue sky and dawn’s light she had her suspicions. Then she noticed that she was waking up on deck, surrounded by other passed out sailors and marines. She groaned. At least she was wearing all her clothes still.

She slowly gathered herself and sat up. Watching as the last stragglers crossed the planks between ships. The planks were pulled up as the ships moved away from each other. Jillian was sure that she saw Gareth leap the last few feet just in time to make it. She chuckled but quickly stopped as that just made her head pound. She took a measure of the men and women around her.

Ah, it looks like our numbers have grown overnight.

She stood up and noticed Gareth again, looking to be giving orders already. As one of the cabin boys ran off Gareth headed to the foredeck. Jillian winced, knowing what was coming next and yet the shrill whistle still pierced her ears and made the nausea almost too much to bear. She stumbled to find her place in line as the rest of the sleeping crew grumbled and began to assemble. Some looking to Gareth and some forming a line along the rails, noisily ejecting the remains of last night’s drink.

*
The sunrise peeked in the window, casting its rays across her eyes. Olivia frowned, her eyes still closed and nestled closer to the warm body next to her.

“Not yet.” It was breathed against his skin. Her face buried into his arm. They had been apart for too long and they had joined again as if the years had not separated them.

Olivia’s fingers entwined with Gareth’s and she pulled his hand to her lips. Kissing each of his fingers she sighed. The boats would be preparing to separate and begin the assault on the pirate’s battlements. First, the Jade Moon would move on allowing the Star to deal with their trial. Then the two boats would meet up to take on the pirate’s cannons.

Olivia turned in Gareth’s arms. He would have a heavy day. How it was handled would go a long way to how much his crew would respect him. She wished she could take it all from him, let him go back to the marine he was. Responsible, shy and kind. Free of shadows and hatred. Not that she did not understand. She had been part of that crew as well. If she and Gareth hadn’t been on the island looking for supplies to repair the ship they might not being lying here now.

She kissed his neck, pushing thoughts of the past away and focusing on the present. They were together again. Not permanently and not even on the same ship but working together was better than the distance of before.

Her fingers went into his hair. He looked so untroubled in his sleep. Olivia hated the idea of waking him. She hated the idea of leaving the bed even more but duty called for both of them.

“Sun is up. We must take advantage of the current. If we head out soon we can be there before noon. There is hope that by this evening we can take their cannons.” Olivia’s voice was soft but commanding. One captain to another, despite their closeness under the blankets.

“We may have reason to celebrate. Perhaps in your quarters next time.” She smiled and kissed him.

Gareth became aware of Olivia’s gentle caresses. Her observations sinking in quickly, he sighed, “Yes, of course. We’ll need to work our crews back to shape and through the effects of the carousing. There will be grumbling, but now they’ve learned their friends and the hard work will knit them together in a joint cause of recovery.”

He chuckled lightly, knowing that this could backfire if the planned attack on the pirates didn’t pan out. He was confident that the crew would be in shape for this evening’s raid though and the battle would be the last tempering fire to secure this crew for a long, hard fought war on the pirate band.

He kissed Olivia softly and slid out of bed. He dressed as he continued speaking, “Another celebration like last night for the crew might be too much. We should temper the enthusiasm. However, I will be very happy to welcome you to my ship. It’s only fair to return the hospitality.”

Olivia pulled the blankets up to cover herself as she watched him dress. Her legs tucked up, her chin resting on her knees, “Very true but a victory will want to be celebrated. We will think of something. Perhaps something more... organized.”

She smirked and slid out of the bed. Walking over to him, Olivia fixed the collar of his shirt, “I would be honoured to accept your hospitality Captain.”

She kissed him fully and then stepped away. Donning clean clothes, Olivia brushed her hair smooth and bound it back. She finished it with a bandanna.

Turning she smiled at him, her hands on her hips, “Ready?”

Gareth and Olivia emerged from her quarters. No sense pretending they weren’t in there together. Too many sharp eyes. If they wanted to talk, let them. Gareth’s and Olivia’s story was known by enough people among the crew that it wouldn’t stay secret even if they tried. Olivia shouted orders to move the ships apart. Gareth took her hand in his one last time and kissed the back of it as he bowed. Donning his hat he said, “Though it is hard to leave a beautiful woman, this day looks to be almost as beautiful and does take the edge off. Until tonight.”

He turned and with a few steps and a leap made it back to the Star just as the last plank was being removed from between the two ships.

As soon as he was on board he called for the cabin boys. He sent messages out to gather John from the brig and call the crew to order. He knew it was going to take a bit of time to get everything ready, but no sense delaying. He sent orders to start on the course Pavati set to the island. He was confident that John’s sentence was just but knew he needed the backing of his crew. Since John’s crimes did not take place in battle the captain’s word was not final. The representative of the crew would need to pass final judgement. After last night Gareth thought the crew should have mingled enough to be able to choose a spokesperson. Now was the time to find out who that would be.

He strode up to the fore deck and watched as the crew tried to come to order. Some needed to pause along the rails before the did, but eventually all members were in line. Gareth chuckled at the less than straight lines that formed and the swaying he saw among the crowd. Almost like I have a bunch of land lubbers here. Ah, nothing a little work won’t cure. We’ll sweat it out of them.

Gareth turned to another of the cabin boys and ordered enough fresh water set about to ensure no one was going to be short. Gareth knew it was a quick use of precious supplies, but he needed his crew in fighting shape and if they were dehydrated they would not be. If they put down this first ship they would have more than enough time and ability to refill their water supply.

Now John was being paraded out on deck, in shackles and made to stand below the captain on the main deck. He was clearly angry and hurting. The lack of alcohol in his system was showing. John looked strained. Eyes blinked in the harsh sunlight.

Gareth barely contained a sneer of contempt at having to see the man again. He began, “I have gathered the crew to pass judgement. This man is accused of dereliction of duty. He has not been fit to perform his role since he set foot upon this ship. He has passed off the work of another as his own in an attempt to dupe the officers, and this ship’s crew, into thinking he is a capable sailing master. He is also accused of abusing a fellow crew member. Of uttering threats to officers and discreditable conduct in general. I propose a sentence of marooning. Let fate deal with the man as she deems fit.”

John looked up at Gareth, the colour draining from his face. His mouth opened as if he would argue but the murmurs that began behind him gave him pause. He glanced fearfully from side to side.

Gareth paused, looking over the whole crew, meeting as many gazes as he could with confidence in his decision. “Since these crimes were not during a time of war it is the crew’s responsibility to pass judgement. Therefore I call upon the spokesperson for the crew to pass judgement on this man. You have time to choose your representative. I will await your decision in my quarters and the prisoner will be returned to the brig.”

Gareth nodded to his officers as he turned toward his quarters, “I trust you will gather the crew’s opinions appropriately. Thank you.” He then entered his quarters and began catching up in his logbook.

John struggled as he was led back towards the brig. He wanted to plead his case. He caught Pavati’s face in the crowd. “You! You are the cause of this!” He continued to yell as he was led away.