Ryiah ran swiftly on feet made light by desperation. Behind her, the palace awoke into a caucophony of noise as they discovered her rooms empty, her person missing. Still dressed as she had been earlier in the day for her father's memorial, she had hoped to maintain the charade that she wasn't planning on running, that she didn't know they would come for her, that they wanted everone to believe she had killed him. But she knew. And now they knew she had run. The dress was completely unsuitable for fleeing or fighting, showing off a bit more of her feminine features than she preferred. Ry muttered a few choice words under her breath as she did her best to collect the airy fabric to allow her bare feet easier passage.
She knew the palace's secrets, its back alleys - one of which spilled out directly into the main function of the town, and it was this way she ran, a satchel over one shoulder and her sheathed sword clutched tightly in one hand, out of place compared to her finery, yet lending her an air of "don't mess with me" which aided her as people moved out of her way, casting wide eyed glances in her wake. The sprawling town with its curved and domed buildings was built very near the sea, much of its trade and commerce taking place near the docks. Her feet knew the way well, and she hardly needed to think about her direction as she ran. The day had been hot and the night promised to be so as well, holding a humidity which seemed to dampen most everything. For all the turmoil within Ryiah, the world seemed to be going on with business as usual. For a few more lingering hours, they did not know - did not believe she was a traitor to the empire. Soon they would be told a lie, and they would all turn against her.
Ry's first thought of escape was to the Nonesuch her mother's ship, and her birthright. Yet as she found herself near the docks, the empire's soldiers were already swarming toward the elegant brigantine and her heart gave a lurch. Would that too be taken from her? Anger flared, and she felt herself decide almost involuntarily. No. She would take it back. This was something the grubby traitors would not have. She crouched behind a shadowy stack of abandoned crates, her amber orange hues glistening as she considered her options. She needed a diversion, and more people to help her steal back her boat. Would Carabia come? A note, sent out through back alleys by those she felt were most loyal, though she didn't know who she could truly trust, had been intended for the visiting princess - one of the only ones she knew wasn't behind her father's murder. The note had detailed her chosen day for flight, and specified a meeting at the docks, but would her friend be able to slip away, much less help?
Who else could she recruit to her cause? Surely not everyone would be turned by the smooth lies. Surely there were those who would know better. Her gaze continued its scanning of the docks, taking in the various ships here for trade, resupply, and other business. The area was busy, and people seemed to be trying extra hard to ignore the guards in the area, not wanting to get involved, and perhaps be taken in for questioning.
She knew the palace's secrets, its back alleys - one of which spilled out directly into the main function of the town, and it was this way she ran, a satchel over one shoulder and her sheathed sword clutched tightly in one hand, out of place compared to her finery, yet lending her an air of "don't mess with me" which aided her as people moved out of her way, casting wide eyed glances in her wake. The sprawling town with its curved and domed buildings was built very near the sea, much of its trade and commerce taking place near the docks. Her feet knew the way well, and she hardly needed to think about her direction as she ran. The day had been hot and the night promised to be so as well, holding a humidity which seemed to dampen most everything. For all the turmoil within Ryiah, the world seemed to be going on with business as usual. For a few more lingering hours, they did not know - did not believe she was a traitor to the empire. Soon they would be told a lie, and they would all turn against her.
Ry's first thought of escape was to the Nonesuch her mother's ship, and her birthright. Yet as she found herself near the docks, the empire's soldiers were already swarming toward the elegant brigantine and her heart gave a lurch. Would that too be taken from her? Anger flared, and she felt herself decide almost involuntarily. No. She would take it back. This was something the grubby traitors would not have. She crouched behind a shadowy stack of abandoned crates, her amber orange hues glistening as she considered her options. She needed a diversion, and more people to help her steal back her boat. Would Carabia come? A note, sent out through back alleys by those she felt were most loyal, though she didn't know who she could truly trust, had been intended for the visiting princess - one of the only ones she knew wasn't behind her father's murder. The note had detailed her chosen day for flight, and specified a meeting at the docks, but would her friend be able to slip away, much less help?
Who else could she recruit to her cause? Surely not everyone would be turned by the smooth lies. Surely there were those who would know better. Her gaze continued its scanning of the docks, taking in the various ships here for trade, resupply, and other business. The area was busy, and people seemed to be trying extra hard to ignore the guards in the area, not wanting to get involved, and perhaps be taken in for questioning.
Kendra was sitting on what was normally an isolated corner of the docks. This used to be her favorite place to go when she had to get away from everything. This town was perfect for someone like her, so based around the sea, so many people who are just trying to make a living. Although the best part about this place, was how she was able to look over one of the most beautiful ships she had ever seen. Although for some reason it was swarming with soldiers, something that wasn't very normal. She saw crew ignoring the guards, or trying to at least, there was something wrong. She stood up dusting off her fancy naval jacket and pants. If only she was actually still in the navy, normally girls weren't allowed in the navy, so she was dressed as a boy, her long hair pulled up and tucked into a hat hiding it. These heavy jackets hid everything to begin with, so that wasn't a problem. . Any of the curious soldiers that bothered a glance her way, just figured she was here for some sort of check, idiots. She felt her sword at her side, it was much more that just standard issue, and defiantly wasn't for show. She couldn't help but think of what would happen if they began to question her, would she be able to lie herself out of it or would she have to show steel? She looked up at the sky, something was on the horizon, and it wasn't a storm. She started walking towards the side of the docks where the beautiful ship was, looking around casually. She felt the weight of her flint lock in her coat and took a deep breath, no one would take her here. Not that she was to worried about it, no one could catch the snake.
She continued her walk down the dock, observing until she came across something strange. Next to the strange boxes there was a piece of fabric showing just a bit off the side, only seeable from her direction. She looked back at the ship, and moved her path slightly towards the boxes. She leaned against the outside of them, not looking behind them as she stared towards the ship. She used gave the fabric just a little tug, trying to give anything attached to it the warning that she knew they were there. She stared evenly at the ship, it would be hard to get a read off of her, but it would be very possible, she seemed curios that there was someone was there, interested even. She cast her glance slightly towards the boxes, waiting for some sort of answer.
She continued her walk down the dock, observing until she came across something strange. Next to the strange boxes there was a piece of fabric showing just a bit off the side, only seeable from her direction. She looked back at the ship, and moved her path slightly towards the boxes. She leaned against the outside of them, not looking behind them as she stared towards the ship. She used gave the fabric just a little tug, trying to give anything attached to it the warning that she knew they were there. She stared evenly at the ship, it would be hard to get a read off of her, but it would be very possible, she seemed curios that there was someone was there, interested even. She cast her glance slightly towards the boxes, waiting for some sort of answer.
((OOC : Link to the OOC forum for this story )
Conrad Tydfil, the new regent king, had taken command of the kingdom and armies as soon as his cousin had died, given that the princess was not yet of age. The sudden death of the ruler had come as an unwelcomed surprise to him, forcing him to abandon his laid back lavish lifestyle to adopt the burdens of the crown.
It was likely that the king had been murdered by a disgruntled lord or other and some courtiers even had cast suspicion upon him that it was Conrad who had ordered the poisoning of his relative but, with the princess' escape, the situation gave him the opportunity to clear his name from any involvement as it became perfectly clear to him and the kingdom that her escape was proof of her foul deed.
He summoned lord Tron Pentre, the lord scribe, and Sir Henry Morgan, the head of the army, and sent them out to issue the announcement of the grim discovery.
During the noon announcements, the low, slow beating of the drums combined with the hot dry day brought about the dramatic darkness and sorrow of yet another mournful woeful day with more tragic news to ensue.
Lord Pentre climbed up to the scaffolding parchment to hand to read aloud its content, slowly and clearly so the news would be heard and understood by all.
"Beloved kingdom, I, king Conrad Tydfil, with a very saddened and heavy heart must inform you all that, at some point during the past night, our crown princess Ryiah Sendara Bet'Luna has escaped the palace, unseen, unnoticed, like a thief in the dark, leaving without any warning or farewell. Such sudden and unexpected departure is clear proof of her guilt, of her involvement in the premature death of our beloved king. She must be found and be brought to my presence to face justice as all murderers do.
A bounty of one thousand gold pieces will be paid out to whoever brings her back, dead or alive. Preferably alive that she may be questioned about her accomplices. Though, in either case, the bounty will be paid and justice will be served.
To this, purpose we will start searching the city and kingdom, house by house, and every vessel that comes and goes. Night time curfew now applies, sundown to sunrise too. Anyone caught roaming will be arrested overnight.
We understand these measure will cause distress upon you, righteous citizens, and these unpleasant news will create a well placed indignation, which I share with you. Yet we seek your understanding that murderers on the loose can cause further harm to any of you and she must be stopped promptly. If you see her, call guards but don't approach her for your own safety.
Needless to say anyone found sheltering or aiding her will receive adequate reprimand and those who help find her will receive adequate reward too" assured Pentre calmly folding the parchment and handing it to Perseus to nail it on the notice board "long live the king!" Claimed Pentre loyal and loudly descending and returning to the guards, their presence becoming all the more heavy after the announcement to start the search
Taff Gelligen had come to deliver food to the prisoners, having been sent to work at the kitchens, barracks and dungeons now that the king was dead and didn't need the manservant any more.
The previous day, following the royal burial, a decree had been issued by Conrad banning magic and its usage across the realm, a move intended to capture and kill anyone with power and somehow try to prevent the return of the royal family who was known to have connections to ancient dragons and their powers. This surprising decree made Taff count his blessings that no one was none the wiser about the extent of his power as a warlock, a fact only known to the now defunct king, whom Taff liked to call The Dormant King and very much looked forward to his return already so he could go back to his routine and manservant duties. He knew he had to find the princess and help her make this happen but with her escape... he stood no chance to assist her any more, which left him all the more disheartened.
The sudden changes in power and laws, combined with the new chores, kept Taff on edge. Admittedly the proximity to murderous assassins and pirates, freshly caught and clearly disgruntled, made him very uncomfortable, but certainly some work was better than none, so he took the position and got to work delivering food and water and wine to prisoners and guards, for lack of alternative choices.
At times even he was uncertain which of the two groups were worse or more dangerous. At least the brigands were locked up, whilst the drunken guards had free hands to make unrequited shameful deeds as they pleased.
Whilst serving the meal at the barracks, where the holding cells contained recently captured mercenaries awaiting trial, the announcement was read out and it came to him as a shock. He had heard the message loud and clear and now his hopes for returning to his manservant position had clearly slimmed if not vanished altogether.
It was after the announcement that things became complicated and took a turn for the worse.
Taff was retreating from Jeremy, a rowdy guard who was celebrating the news with yet more rum and making rude gestures and inappropriate advances, food tray pressed against the chest to create some distance between the pair.
Having ran out of space and feeling trapped, Taff reversed a little more and slammed his back against the iron bars of a holding cell, through which the infamous pirate, captain Calico Jack, wasted no time to snatch the knife from the food tray Taff was hi holding.
Calico Jack then grabbed hold of the drunken guard with his spare arm, wrestling him briefly. A few twists of the knife and a few slices and stabs and the abusive sod quietly and quickly met his death, his sounds muffled by Taff who was supporting the weight of the man, when the mortally wounded guard fell on him. Taff was horrified yet dared not move in case he too was killed by the renowned brigand.
With the guard dispatched swiftly, Calico Jack took the knife digging it lightly into Taff's back as a warning, forcing compliance out of the servant.
Taff took the keys from the dead guard as instructed, opened the barred door and became, from then on, Calico Jack's captive.
Better a slave than a corpse Taff thought to himself helping Calico Jack into the guards clothing and placing the pirate dressed corpse back into the cell, leading the way out of to the palace through the well known servants passages and gates.
Conrad Tydfil, the new regent king, had taken command of the kingdom and armies as soon as his cousin had died, given that the princess was not yet of age. The sudden death of the ruler had come as an unwelcomed surprise to him, forcing him to abandon his laid back lavish lifestyle to adopt the burdens of the crown.
It was likely that the king had been murdered by a disgruntled lord or other and some courtiers even had cast suspicion upon him that it was Conrad who had ordered the poisoning of his relative but, with the princess' escape, the situation gave him the opportunity to clear his name from any involvement as it became perfectly clear to him and the kingdom that her escape was proof of her foul deed.
He summoned lord Tron Pentre, the lord scribe, and Sir Henry Morgan, the head of the army, and sent them out to issue the announcement of the grim discovery.
During the noon announcements, the low, slow beating of the drums combined with the hot dry day brought about the dramatic darkness and sorrow of yet another mournful woeful day with more tragic news to ensue.
Lord Pentre climbed up to the scaffolding parchment to hand to read aloud its content, slowly and clearly so the news would be heard and understood by all.
"Beloved kingdom, I, king Conrad Tydfil, with a very saddened and heavy heart must inform you all that, at some point during the past night, our crown princess Ryiah Sendara Bet'Luna has escaped the palace, unseen, unnoticed, like a thief in the dark, leaving without any warning or farewell. Such sudden and unexpected departure is clear proof of her guilt, of her involvement in the premature death of our beloved king. She must be found and be brought to my presence to face justice as all murderers do.
A bounty of one thousand gold pieces will be paid out to whoever brings her back, dead or alive. Preferably alive that she may be questioned about her accomplices. Though, in either case, the bounty will be paid and justice will be served.
To this, purpose we will start searching the city and kingdom, house by house, and every vessel that comes and goes. Night time curfew now applies, sundown to sunrise too. Anyone caught roaming will be arrested overnight.
We understand these measure will cause distress upon you, righteous citizens, and these unpleasant news will create a well placed indignation, which I share with you. Yet we seek your understanding that murderers on the loose can cause further harm to any of you and she must be stopped promptly. If you see her, call guards but don't approach her for your own safety.
Needless to say anyone found sheltering or aiding her will receive adequate reprimand and those who help find her will receive adequate reward too" assured Pentre calmly folding the parchment and handing it to Perseus to nail it on the notice board "long live the king!" Claimed Pentre loyal and loudly descending and returning to the guards, their presence becoming all the more heavy after the announcement to start the search
Taff Gelligen had come to deliver food to the prisoners, having been sent to work at the kitchens, barracks and dungeons now that the king was dead and didn't need the manservant any more.
The previous day, following the royal burial, a decree had been issued by Conrad banning magic and its usage across the realm, a move intended to capture and kill anyone with power and somehow try to prevent the return of the royal family who was known to have connections to ancient dragons and their powers. This surprising decree made Taff count his blessings that no one was none the wiser about the extent of his power as a warlock, a fact only known to the now defunct king, whom Taff liked to call The Dormant King and very much looked forward to his return already so he could go back to his routine and manservant duties. He knew he had to find the princess and help her make this happen but with her escape... he stood no chance to assist her any more, which left him all the more disheartened.
The sudden changes in power and laws, combined with the new chores, kept Taff on edge. Admittedly the proximity to murderous assassins and pirates, freshly caught and clearly disgruntled, made him very uncomfortable, but certainly some work was better than none, so he took the position and got to work delivering food and water and wine to prisoners and guards, for lack of alternative choices.
At times even he was uncertain which of the two groups were worse or more dangerous. At least the brigands were locked up, whilst the drunken guards had free hands to make unrequited shameful deeds as they pleased.
Whilst serving the meal at the barracks, where the holding cells contained recently captured mercenaries awaiting trial, the announcement was read out and it came to him as a shock. He had heard the message loud and clear and now his hopes for returning to his manservant position had clearly slimmed if not vanished altogether.
It was after the announcement that things became complicated and took a turn for the worse.
Taff was retreating from Jeremy, a rowdy guard who was celebrating the news with yet more rum and making rude gestures and inappropriate advances, food tray pressed against the chest to create some distance between the pair.
Having ran out of space and feeling trapped, Taff reversed a little more and slammed his back against the iron bars of a holding cell, through which the infamous pirate, captain Calico Jack, wasted no time to snatch the knife from the food tray Taff was hi holding.
Calico Jack then grabbed hold of the drunken guard with his spare arm, wrestling him briefly. A few twists of the knife and a few slices and stabs and the abusive sod quietly and quickly met his death, his sounds muffled by Taff who was supporting the weight of the man, when the mortally wounded guard fell on him. Taff was horrified yet dared not move in case he too was killed by the renowned brigand.
With the guard dispatched swiftly, Calico Jack took the knife digging it lightly into Taff's back as a warning, forcing compliance out of the servant.
Taff took the keys from the dead guard as instructed, opened the barred door and became, from then on, Calico Jack's captive.
Better a slave than a corpse Taff thought to himself helping Calico Jack into the guards clothing and placing the pirate dressed corpse back into the cell, leading the way out of to the palace through the well known servants passages and gates.
OOC:[I'd like to keep this moving along if possible, so still feel free to jump in Carabia]
Ryiah had been watching most particularly the soldiers who stood guard near the Nonesuch . Others could be seen roaming the decks to make sure no one was hiding aboard already. These soldiers had been part of her fathers own guard. She wondered if any were part of the rebel traitors who'd killed him, or if they were just following orders. While her anger burned hot, she yet didn't want to kill men whos only crime was a misguided sense of honor.
A sudden tug on her dress sent an alarming surge of panic coursing through her. Had she been seen already? spinning, while still maintaining a crouch so as to remain behind the stack of crates, she flicked her strikingly orange amber gaze up to see a girl leaning against the crates. It was obvious she'd been seen - but by a friend or foe... Ry bit her bottom lip, then, if the girl should glance her way, she'd gesture for her to join her behind the crates, making room so the both sat in the shadows. It was already a risky hiding place, one she didn't intend to stay in for long, but this needed attended to or else her cover was blown.
If the woman chose to take a place beside her, hopefully as surreptitiously as possible, she would flash a bright smile. That's how to get off on the right foot, wasn't it? "You've probably figured out who I am already, so there's no hiding that. Ryiah Sendara Bet'Luna, at your service... except, I sort of need your services at the moment, if you desire adventure." It was an odd way to recruit but the woman obviously had sailing ability, due to the uniform she recognized as navy from across the sea. Such groups had been through here before of course, but usually didn't travel alone, which caused curiosity to prick in Ry's mind. Was this woman on the run as well? Or merely out of service?
"That ship over there, under heavy guard, is mine by birthright. The tales probably already being told of crimes I've committed are lies." She couldn't prove any of it of course...and she eyed the woman to gauge her reaction. "I need help comandeering it, which will mean a diversion. I had hoped to have more help, but, I know not whom I can trust."
She bit her bottom lip again, knowing it was an incredible tale, her garb making it seem even more ridiculous that she hoped to comandeer a ship. Not for the last time did she wish she'd had a chance to change. Ah well, she wouldn't let such things get in her way.
Ryiah had been watching most particularly the soldiers who stood guard near the Nonesuch . Others could be seen roaming the decks to make sure no one was hiding aboard already. These soldiers had been part of her fathers own guard. She wondered if any were part of the rebel traitors who'd killed him, or if they were just following orders. While her anger burned hot, she yet didn't want to kill men whos only crime was a misguided sense of honor.
A sudden tug on her dress sent an alarming surge of panic coursing through her. Had she been seen already? spinning, while still maintaining a crouch so as to remain behind the stack of crates, she flicked her strikingly orange amber gaze up to see a girl leaning against the crates. It was obvious she'd been seen - but by a friend or foe... Ry bit her bottom lip, then, if the girl should glance her way, she'd gesture for her to join her behind the crates, making room so the both sat in the shadows. It was already a risky hiding place, one she didn't intend to stay in for long, but this needed attended to or else her cover was blown.
If the woman chose to take a place beside her, hopefully as surreptitiously as possible, she would flash a bright smile. That's how to get off on the right foot, wasn't it? "You've probably figured out who I am already, so there's no hiding that. Ryiah Sendara Bet'Luna, at your service... except, I sort of need your services at the moment, if you desire adventure." It was an odd way to recruit but the woman obviously had sailing ability, due to the uniform she recognized as navy from across the sea. Such groups had been through here before of course, but usually didn't travel alone, which caused curiosity to prick in Ry's mind. Was this woman on the run as well? Or merely out of service?
"That ship over there, under heavy guard, is mine by birthright. The tales probably already being told of crimes I've committed are lies." She couldn't prove any of it of course...and she eyed the woman to gauge her reaction. "I need help comandeering it, which will mean a diversion. I had hoped to have more help, but, I know not whom I can trust."
She bit her bottom lip again, knowing it was an incredible tale, her garb making it seem even more ridiculous that she hoped to comandeer a ship. Not for the last time did she wish she'd had a chance to change. Ah well, she wouldn't let such things get in her way.
Taff guided Calico Jack through the intricate markets and alleyways, doing his best to avoid the established check points and patrols. When stopped, he talked calmly and casually, fooling the guards well enough. His well known face as a castle servant got the pair a relatively trouble free passage.
"James, here, is just escorting me to collect a delivery from the docks, with so many traitors and murderers on the loose, even royal servants need safe guarding these days" explained Taff with a broad smile and light tone, friendly and relaxed pasture as usual, giving no indication of trouble, when asked about his companion.
Taff crossed the city and descended to the furthest tavern in the rundown suburbs, the one closest to the docks, where lowest classes, dubious merchants and known pirates where the only regular customers there. Cheap food, cheaper ales and lawlessness making it highly attractive. No man with reputation or wealth would venture there, not even guards dared roam that area, never mind enter the notorious pirate's den. It was here that Calico Jack had insisted to go and Taff knew better than to refuse, thus he limited himself to walk in.
The air was filled with light smoke from the burning wood from the fireplace which gave light, warmth and a homely feeling to the establishment, making the air heavy but not at all unpleasant. From time to time, as he entered further, passing tables, benches, stools and sofas, there was a stronger whiff of tobacco here and there from the pipes being smoked by the seasoned sailors. The deeper Taff and Calico got into the tavern, the stronger were the scents of the food being cooked, baking breads, grilled meats, roast vegetables and steaming hot pots which were bound to make anyone hungry at any time.
The furniture all around was clearly dated and well used, if actually misused and battered. It was distasteful and tatty, patched and mended but clearly without any intention to restore it to its original condition, rather, simply kept usable despite the discoloration and damage. Not one piece was alike any other there. The mismatch was an oddity for Taff who was accustomed to the lavish perfection, beauty and uniformity of the selected furniture at the royal palace.
The place was darkened by lack of adequately sized windows or sufficient ventilation, which gave it a sinister look. Overall it was poorly lit up by oil lamps and candles, here and there, sparsely distributed
Whilst it may have seemed ordinary at first encounter, Taff became tense at the scenes he gazed upon in more detail which made him shudder.
The crowded building was filled with drunkards and gamblers, arguing, with accusations soon escalating to scuffles, beatings and the odd murder or maiming, here and there, before another round rum made them all settle down and carry on. There was crude laughter and debauchery spilling everywhere.
The handful of ladies, if they could be called so, wore suggestive attire that struggled to cover much of the upper body at all, modesty nowhere to be seen among the coloured outfits, which were undone for better measure. These loose women were proudly flaunting their assets and making untoward if lewd gestures to entice clientele for their less than honest work. This was something Taff was clearly unaccustomed to and made him cringe deeper in discomfort and a mild blush, wishing he was put to row boats under the whip already than endure these dishonest women getting any closer to him.
It seemed the only well mannered gentleman appeared to be Taff himself. He stood to one side, letting Calico Jack order the food and talk as he pleased, doing his best to stare at the ground out of respect and decency rather than continue glancing around.
The floor, covered with spilled drinks and discarded, half eaten, dropped food, was mostly made of broken uneven tiles, the odd mice and some ants, here and there, were putting Taff out of eating given the disgusting conditions, not that the dirty tables were making it appealing anyways.
"Stop slacking off, you lot! Here I have a fancy brigantine to steal just docked and waiting at the port, whilst you're all idle and sulking! I told you I would get out of jail. Yet men o' little faith. I expected the ship to be taken already and all of you prepared to set sail, tides wait for no one. By now Nonesuch should be flying the jolly roger, you slackers! Get back to work, scallywags, or I'll tear your skin and make shoe laces with it!" Barked Calico taking off the hat and guard's coat to reveal his annoyed face and identity
Taff swallowed hard at the thought of it. The singled ship was no easy vessel to take, it was in fact very heavily guarded, but that didn't seem to trouble anyone at all besides him. It was clear by their sudden cheery mood that these pirates were actually looking forward to the dangers that might lay ahead. They were Calico's loyal crew, made of seasoned thieves and ruthless assassins and they would make it light work to capture the brigantine now that they had their captain back.
Taff watch quietly as almost everyone grinned and chuckle to celebrate Calico's return, finishing the rum quickly and slamming the mugs down to scramble ready for the takeover of that vessel within the hour.
"You... are coming too... I can't have you alerting the guards after all" noted Calico Jack who snatched a sword and pointed it towards Taff chest
"Yes... of course... sir..." yielded Taff in reluctant agreement seeing the men armed to their teeth, taking nets, ropes with hooks, cutlass and broadswords among many others, bows and crossbows ready for the imminent assault
"Men... we will need rowers... grab every capable man, woman or child, rich or poor, that you find, guards included, else you're going under the lash in their place" warned Calico in a no nonsense business like tone.
"Aye aye" barked the men in unison bringing shackles and chains as well for the imprisoned slaves, locking up Taff and dragging him out and forward.
There was strength in their numbers and fear in anyone who crossed their path, some lucky to escape others, less lucky, joining Taff in chains too.
Sir Henry Morgan was at the time inspecting the docks with some guards, when he too became surrounded, overpowered and clearly outnumbered by the loud aggressive pirates. He looked on grimly as the prized ship was effortlessly seized by the brigands, those on board rounded on deck, their fate uncertain.
"Well, well, well, what do we have here the highest ranked of them all, shackled at my feet. By Davis Jones that I knew we would meet again today Sir Morgan, just not in such circumstances" chuckled Calico noticing Sir Henry Morgan right away
"Release me and the guards or by my honour that I will run you through my sword at the next encounter" threatened Morgan furious.
"Tell you what, you order men to surrender, disarm and obey me and you all get to travel together and live a little longer" prompted Calico with a smirk "If you refuse, they die... right away... because of your stubbornness" warned Calico arms crossed along the chest glaring at the commander of the army
"Cursed be the day you were born" spat Morgan spitting on the ground to show his displeasure
"Careful now, I might make you lick the floor" smiled Calico broadly taking mild offense at the defiant gesture
"Men... disarm.. drop your weapons and surrender, follow given orders" barked Morgan tossing his sword and dropping to his knees, the pirates shackling him and marching him on board, all the guards at the docks following suit due to the given orders thus meeting the same grimaced fate, undress down to your braies and take your seats by the oars, you have some rowing to do, gentlemen" prompted Calico watching the men do as told, Sir Henry Morgan complying reluctantly through gritted teeth.
"You will pay for this shameful dishonor" muttered Morgan passing Calico to take the seat closest to the helm and thus the whip, his duty as commander being that of protecting him men as best as he could, despite the circumstances, even at his own expense
"Sure I will, in the mean time, I'll have a plain sailing and lucky escape, at your expense" grinned Calico
"Men, grab a few lucky ladies and bring them on board, willing and otherwise, there's empty space here, and we have too many honourable men to break and tarnish" waved Calico putting on Morgan's hat as he walked along the deck of the brigantine
Rufus saw a few women grabbing those too, paying a few wenches to come willingly and seizing some forcibly, and brought them along. He approaching Kendra to seize her too and he would grab Ryiah as well if she was made known to them, captain said the more, the merrier after all
"Greetings madame, we're in need of a woman's touch, care to come along?" Quizzed Rufus hand holding his cutlass firmly
"James, here, is just escorting me to collect a delivery from the docks, with so many traitors and murderers on the loose, even royal servants need safe guarding these days" explained Taff with a broad smile and light tone, friendly and relaxed pasture as usual, giving no indication of trouble, when asked about his companion.
Taff crossed the city and descended to the furthest tavern in the rundown suburbs, the one closest to the docks, where lowest classes, dubious merchants and known pirates where the only regular customers there. Cheap food, cheaper ales and lawlessness making it highly attractive. No man with reputation or wealth would venture there, not even guards dared roam that area, never mind enter the notorious pirate's den. It was here that Calico Jack had insisted to go and Taff knew better than to refuse, thus he limited himself to walk in.
The air was filled with light smoke from the burning wood from the fireplace which gave light, warmth and a homely feeling to the establishment, making the air heavy but not at all unpleasant. From time to time, as he entered further, passing tables, benches, stools and sofas, there was a stronger whiff of tobacco here and there from the pipes being smoked by the seasoned sailors. The deeper Taff and Calico got into the tavern, the stronger were the scents of the food being cooked, baking breads, grilled meats, roast vegetables and steaming hot pots which were bound to make anyone hungry at any time.
The furniture all around was clearly dated and well used, if actually misused and battered. It was distasteful and tatty, patched and mended but clearly without any intention to restore it to its original condition, rather, simply kept usable despite the discoloration and damage. Not one piece was alike any other there. The mismatch was an oddity for Taff who was accustomed to the lavish perfection, beauty and uniformity of the selected furniture at the royal palace.
The place was darkened by lack of adequately sized windows or sufficient ventilation, which gave it a sinister look. Overall it was poorly lit up by oil lamps and candles, here and there, sparsely distributed
Whilst it may have seemed ordinary at first encounter, Taff became tense at the scenes he gazed upon in more detail which made him shudder.
The crowded building was filled with drunkards and gamblers, arguing, with accusations soon escalating to scuffles, beatings and the odd murder or maiming, here and there, before another round rum made them all settle down and carry on. There was crude laughter and debauchery spilling everywhere.
The handful of ladies, if they could be called so, wore suggestive attire that struggled to cover much of the upper body at all, modesty nowhere to be seen among the coloured outfits, which were undone for better measure. These loose women were proudly flaunting their assets and making untoward if lewd gestures to entice clientele for their less than honest work. This was something Taff was clearly unaccustomed to and made him cringe deeper in discomfort and a mild blush, wishing he was put to row boats under the whip already than endure these dishonest women getting any closer to him.
It seemed the only well mannered gentleman appeared to be Taff himself. He stood to one side, letting Calico Jack order the food and talk as he pleased, doing his best to stare at the ground out of respect and decency rather than continue glancing around.
The floor, covered with spilled drinks and discarded, half eaten, dropped food, was mostly made of broken uneven tiles, the odd mice and some ants, here and there, were putting Taff out of eating given the disgusting conditions, not that the dirty tables were making it appealing anyways.
"Stop slacking off, you lot! Here I have a fancy brigantine to steal just docked and waiting at the port, whilst you're all idle and sulking! I told you I would get out of jail. Yet men o' little faith. I expected the ship to be taken already and all of you prepared to set sail, tides wait for no one. By now Nonesuch should be flying the jolly roger, you slackers! Get back to work, scallywags, or I'll tear your skin and make shoe laces with it!" Barked Calico taking off the hat and guard's coat to reveal his annoyed face and identity
Taff swallowed hard at the thought of it. The singled ship was no easy vessel to take, it was in fact very heavily guarded, but that didn't seem to trouble anyone at all besides him. It was clear by their sudden cheery mood that these pirates were actually looking forward to the dangers that might lay ahead. They were Calico's loyal crew, made of seasoned thieves and ruthless assassins and they would make it light work to capture the brigantine now that they had their captain back.
Taff watch quietly as almost everyone grinned and chuckle to celebrate Calico's return, finishing the rum quickly and slamming the mugs down to scramble ready for the takeover of that vessel within the hour.
"You... are coming too... I can't have you alerting the guards after all" noted Calico Jack who snatched a sword and pointed it towards Taff chest
"Yes... of course... sir..." yielded Taff in reluctant agreement seeing the men armed to their teeth, taking nets, ropes with hooks, cutlass and broadswords among many others, bows and crossbows ready for the imminent assault
"Men... we will need rowers... grab every capable man, woman or child, rich or poor, that you find, guards included, else you're going under the lash in their place" warned Calico in a no nonsense business like tone.
"Aye aye" barked the men in unison bringing shackles and chains as well for the imprisoned slaves, locking up Taff and dragging him out and forward.
There was strength in their numbers and fear in anyone who crossed their path, some lucky to escape others, less lucky, joining Taff in chains too.
Sir Henry Morgan was at the time inspecting the docks with some guards, when he too became surrounded, overpowered and clearly outnumbered by the loud aggressive pirates. He looked on grimly as the prized ship was effortlessly seized by the brigands, those on board rounded on deck, their fate uncertain.
"Well, well, well, what do we have here the highest ranked of them all, shackled at my feet. By Davis Jones that I knew we would meet again today Sir Morgan, just not in such circumstances" chuckled Calico noticing Sir Henry Morgan right away
"Release me and the guards or by my honour that I will run you through my sword at the next encounter" threatened Morgan furious.
"Tell you what, you order men to surrender, disarm and obey me and you all get to travel together and live a little longer" prompted Calico with a smirk "If you refuse, they die... right away... because of your stubbornness" warned Calico arms crossed along the chest glaring at the commander of the army
"Cursed be the day you were born" spat Morgan spitting on the ground to show his displeasure
"Careful now, I might make you lick the floor" smiled Calico broadly taking mild offense at the defiant gesture
"Men... disarm.. drop your weapons and surrender, follow given orders" barked Morgan tossing his sword and dropping to his knees, the pirates shackling him and marching him on board, all the guards at the docks following suit due to the given orders thus meeting the same grimaced fate, undress down to your braies and take your seats by the oars, you have some rowing to do, gentlemen" prompted Calico watching the men do as told, Sir Henry Morgan complying reluctantly through gritted teeth.
"You will pay for this shameful dishonor" muttered Morgan passing Calico to take the seat closest to the helm and thus the whip, his duty as commander being that of protecting him men as best as he could, despite the circumstances, even at his own expense
"Sure I will, in the mean time, I'll have a plain sailing and lucky escape, at your expense" grinned Calico
"Men, grab a few lucky ladies and bring them on board, willing and otherwise, there's empty space here, and we have too many honourable men to break and tarnish" waved Calico putting on Morgan's hat as he walked along the deck of the brigantine
Rufus saw a few women grabbing those too, paying a few wenches to come willingly and seizing some forcibly, and brought them along. He approaching Kendra to seize her too and he would grab Ryiah as well if she was made known to them, captain said the more, the merrier after all
"Greetings madame, we're in need of a woman's touch, care to come along?" Quizzed Rufus hand holding his cutlass firmly
Kendra would've nodded and went down at Ryiah's distress. So that's who she was, she had heard of some type of hunt on the former princess, she would've never guessed that this was her. She had always wanted to get her hands on such a beautiful ship, and this would be her chance. She nodded to the plan, that's when she heard footsteps approaching and as if Kendra was never behind the boxes she took her place back beside them, a few pieces of hair falling out of her cap as she did so, motioning for Ryiah to stay in place behind the boxes and maybe follow her lead standing up.
Kendra didn't glance back towards Ryiah, although she knew the both of them coming along would be better. She seemed to size up the man as well before taking off her naval cap, releasing her long silver hair and throw him a flirtatious grin. Agreeing to come along as she took of her naval jacket and disposed of it behind the crates, near Ryiah, trying not to alert the man to her presence. Under this naval jacket she was wearing a white jacket which was less suggestive than what the majority of these ladies would've worn, but could still give anyone ideas. If she could get near the man that had to be the captain of the bunch, there was no doubt in her mind she could convince him. She hoped Ryiah would trust her enough to follow her lead; although, Kendra knew that if given the same choice of whether to ogive herself to a bunch of pirates at a strangers request she would swiftly decline.
"Shall we move then, wasteful to stand all day on the docks." She said moving away from the boxes with on step, hopefully leaving Ryiah there with her jacket as a small disguise.
Kendra would tap the man's other arm. "No need for any of that, though some may need force, I'm not like some of them." She said, referring to the cutlass. "We are still ladies, aren't we?" She asked referring to herself and the other women, hoping to give Ryiah enough time to make choice on coming with her or not.
Kendra didn't glance back towards Ryiah, although she knew the both of them coming along would be better. She seemed to size up the man as well before taking off her naval cap, releasing her long silver hair and throw him a flirtatious grin. Agreeing to come along as she took of her naval jacket and disposed of it behind the crates, near Ryiah, trying not to alert the man to her presence. Under this naval jacket she was wearing a white jacket which was less suggestive than what the majority of these ladies would've worn, but could still give anyone ideas. If she could get near the man that had to be the captain of the bunch, there was no doubt in her mind she could convince him. She hoped Ryiah would trust her enough to follow her lead; although, Kendra knew that if given the same choice of whether to ogive herself to a bunch of pirates at a strangers request she would swiftly decline.
"Shall we move then, wasteful to stand all day on the docks." She said moving away from the boxes with on step, hopefully leaving Ryiah there with her jacket as a small disguise.
Kendra would tap the man's other arm. "No need for any of that, though some may need force, I'm not like some of them." She said, referring to the cutlass. "We are still ladies, aren't we?" She asked referring to herself and the other women, hoping to give Ryiah enough time to make choice on coming with her or not.
Ryiah cursed under her breath. They had stayed too long in one place, their location discovered. As she rose, the pirate's cutlass pointed her direction, she declined to put on the jacket the woman - who's name she still did not know had left for her, if only because it looked as if it would hamper her movements further, and by the looks of things, she'd soon need her sword.
Bending down after a careful, yet defiant look toward the pirate sent to retrieve them, she grabbed her satchel and her scabbard, not about to leave them behind. As she moved, slowly, with deliberate calculation, she watched the pirates swarm aboard her beloved ship, causing anger to kindle within her. It was an indignity to her mother's name, her own, and very nearly the empire as well. The Nonesuch had held such a promising future. Jaw tightening, she considered using her green jewel hilted blade on the pirate before her, contempt showing on her face as she moved around the crates to join the woman and the pirate. The only thing keeping her from doing so, was the hope of escape. This could be her only chance to flee the empire. And if she were to have any hope of returning to claim the throne, to right the false claims made by those who'd betrayed them, she would need to act smart- to make hard choices so that she could live long enough to make good her plans. Her father's dying words flickered through her, his plea. What had it all meant? She would find out, she would cross the sea, and uncover the mystery which had been hidden from her since birth. Perhaps it had something to do with the few obsidian hued scales which glittered a shade of deep purple just beneath the edge of her dress on her right back shoulder blade. Why were they there?
Funny how such dire choices, such stressful situations will cause such thoughts to arise, pull one out of the situation as if to watch it happen to someone else. Ry gritted her teeth, clutching her satchel tightly and forced herself to walk along with the other two, heading towards her ship. At least I will be aboard her... Ryiah thought, her eyes skimming the glistening figurehead of the dragon, then along the sleek railing. Who was in charge of comandeering the ship? She would have words for him. Fire danced in her gaze, but she went along quietly, offering little resistance - for now.
If any of the pirates's gazes lingered on her longer than was necessary during the time it took to board the ship, she turned the baleful fire filled gaze upon them as if daring to make good on their leering. Her sword was eager to play.
As they boarded, Ryiah glanced back over her shoulder, looking out a last time across her town, her city, the place of her birth. I will return. She promised herself, eyes glistening momentarily. A few of the subdued guards down on the docks spotted her as she boarded, one shouting out in recognition, yet he could do nothing. This caused a smirk to rise to her face. He would have to watch as made her escape in broad daylight, the noon sun now beginning to sink dow, beginning its evening path.
The heat was making Ry's tangled curls of fiery red hair feel a bit damp, despite the dryness of the climate. She pushed a stray lock out of her eyes and glanced once more across the docks, hoping to see Carabia, coming though late. Hoping for once last glimpse of a friendly face, yet inside she knew it was likely the visiting princess has been unable to slip away. Hope was not lost. The woman she had just met seemed a likely ally, and Ry would never give in. Clutching a fold of the airy fabric. Ryiah looked straight ahead, keeping her bare feet sure and purposeful, knowing the ship like the back of her own hand.
Bending down after a careful, yet defiant look toward the pirate sent to retrieve them, she grabbed her satchel and her scabbard, not about to leave them behind. As she moved, slowly, with deliberate calculation, she watched the pirates swarm aboard her beloved ship, causing anger to kindle within her. It was an indignity to her mother's name, her own, and very nearly the empire as well. The Nonesuch had held such a promising future. Jaw tightening, she considered using her green jewel hilted blade on the pirate before her, contempt showing on her face as she moved around the crates to join the woman and the pirate. The only thing keeping her from doing so, was the hope of escape. This could be her only chance to flee the empire. And if she were to have any hope of returning to claim the throne, to right the false claims made by those who'd betrayed them, she would need to act smart- to make hard choices so that she could live long enough to make good her plans. Her father's dying words flickered through her, his plea. What had it all meant? She would find out, she would cross the sea, and uncover the mystery which had been hidden from her since birth. Perhaps it had something to do with the few obsidian hued scales which glittered a shade of deep purple just beneath the edge of her dress on her right back shoulder blade. Why were they there?
Funny how such dire choices, such stressful situations will cause such thoughts to arise, pull one out of the situation as if to watch it happen to someone else. Ry gritted her teeth, clutching her satchel tightly and forced herself to walk along with the other two, heading towards her ship. At least I will be aboard her... Ryiah thought, her eyes skimming the glistening figurehead of the dragon, then along the sleek railing. Who was in charge of comandeering the ship? She would have words for him. Fire danced in her gaze, but she went along quietly, offering little resistance - for now.
If any of the pirates's gazes lingered on her longer than was necessary during the time it took to board the ship, she turned the baleful fire filled gaze upon them as if daring to make good on their leering. Her sword was eager to play.
As they boarded, Ryiah glanced back over her shoulder, looking out a last time across her town, her city, the place of her birth. I will return. She promised herself, eyes glistening momentarily. A few of the subdued guards down on the docks spotted her as she boarded, one shouting out in recognition, yet he could do nothing. This caused a smirk to rise to her face. He would have to watch as made her escape in broad daylight, the noon sun now beginning to sink dow, beginning its evening path.
The heat was making Ry's tangled curls of fiery red hair feel a bit damp, despite the dryness of the climate. She pushed a stray lock out of her eyes and glanced once more across the docks, hoping to see Carabia, coming though late. Hoping for once last glimpse of a friendly face, yet inside she knew it was likely the visiting princess has been unable to slip away. Hope was not lost. The woman she had just met seemed a likely ally, and Ry would never give in. Clutching a fold of the airy fabric. Ryiah looked straight ahead, keeping her bare feet sure and purposeful, knowing the ship like the back of her own hand.
"Aye, well spoken, lass, let's not linger at the docks and let's make the most of the tides and currents instead" nodded Rufus in agreement with Kendra escorting the pair aboard quickly, raising his hat to let them go first, "ladies first, madame" muttered Rufus like a proper gentleman a twinkle to woe the woman, sporting some manners and a cheerful smile, unlike when he brought the other unwilling women they had kidnapped.
"Set sail!" barked Rufus watching the pirates quickly scramble to raise the anchor, remove the planks and secure the vessel, readying it for the journey.
Taff was going about his usual business, relieved to have been given his manservant position back given his previous experience and reluctant assistance. He was bringing a tray of fine food expertly laid out for Calico Jack who had taken a liking for the royal manservant because Taff made Calico feel like a king and treated him like any other noble lord.
As Taff's path crossed Ryiah's own, he immediately recognized the crown princess, eyes wide open and dropped his knee to the ground humbly and most respectfully, ducking his head for further good measure. "Your... your... high... highness..." stammered Taff lightly coughing to clear his throat "Your highness, it is an honour to serve you here too, as usual. I remain your most loyal and faithful servant, despite the circumstances" assured Taff who had dropped the tray of food wide eyed and startled at her unexpected presence, now scrambling to clean it all up. "I'm so sorry for this mess, please forgive my clumsiness..." excused Taff now most certainly embarrassed and flushed at the misshap.
The ruckus Taff caused with the silver patter, alongside his most respectful salutation and formal royal greeting in line with the most rigurous protocol caused Sir Henry Morgan to notice the princess as well.
"Kill her! Kill the king's murderer! Kill the princess!" barked Sir Henry Morgan watching some of the stronger men, he himself included struggle and strain with the chains to carry out the order.
Rufus quickly stepped forward, two cutlass out and ready. He whistled to alert the crew at large, a smirk across his face that showed his yellowish teeth as if daring the army men to come and try to bring harm upon the two wenches he himself had invited onboard. At the whistle, the crew quickly took up arms ready to scuffle, coming to stand in the middle of the way and block the access between the navy commander and the outlawed princess.
Calico Jack frowned at the tumult, able to hear the barked out orders loud and clear, which caused curiosity upon the man. He examined the royal girl at a distance, watching and listening from his balcony as the events unfolded, not intervening unless he had to.
Sir Henry Morgan was known to dabble in piracy at convenience and was indeed very well trained in all arts and masteries of survival and escaping. He wasted no time to pick his own locks and chains open, grabbing two of his men and tossing them overboard for better measure. "Swim back and raise alarm! Full fleet out, chase down and drown this ship with or without me on it. The princess can't escape alive and unscathed!" barked Morgan releasing a row boat for better measure, watching the two appointed guards strain but manage to swim and row back to port.
No sooner he had done this, Dom Dimagio grabbed hold of the situation, having Morgan firmly seized.
"Ye'll meet the rope's end for that, me bucko!" assured the angered brigand.
"Next time ye'll dance the hempen jig" assured Dom Dimagio in a bark. No sooner he had finished such words, Morgan was tied to the main mast and a shower of lashes tore into his back, alongside a brutal beating,
Dom Dimagio was a stern master-at-arms who didn't tolerate the least defiance under his watchful eyes and Morgan had indeed crossed all boundaries. He left Morgan badly wounded, bleeding and unconscious, slumped on the ground against the appointed oar.
"Row harder... you bilge rats... or I toss him down to Davies Jones' locker, he be shark's bait then..." frowned Dom Dimagio dragging Morgan half ways over the railing to make good on his threat.
The guards quickly settled, wide eyed at the threat, rowing hard for the captain's sake. Once they returned to their silence, Dom Dimagio removed the dangling Morgain and chained him with twice as many chains, ropes and locks and left him unconscious and bleeding under the sun and salty water, sure to sting the man's back, leaving him dumped by the oar yet again. He could continue when he woke up, if he woke up.
Rufus chuckled loudly at seeing the honorable, well trained, loyal guards rowing as hard as they could to get the ship moving, standing to make better use of their force and strength, getting the brigantine sailing far faster than even the pirates had expected.
"Smart as paint, ye cowardly swabs, smart as paint" complimented Dom Dimagio with a smirk, going about his inspection of ropes, sails, crews and prisoners as if no incident had occurred at all, counting his blessings that Calico had not had to trouble to come and take back command of the ship. The navy officers serious and sober, rowing in full force and even rythm to ensure the survival of their leader.
"Come along... princess... we will be giving you a special treatment and room after all. We wouldn't want any premature harm to befall you, now, would we? Conrad pays double if you're returned alive after all... but first... you'll be sailing with us a while, to learn your place and some obedience, wenches like you are hard to find, not many maidens about lately see? I'm sure captain may want some enjoyment at your expense..." muttered Rufus well aware that the empire would pay a heavy ransom to lay hands on her to kill her
He brought Ryiah to her mother's former quarters, the most heavy guarded, opening the door and shoving Taff into the room, causing him to trip, for better measure. "He's not your usual maid, but he'll have to do for now..." muttered Rufus eyeing out Kendra head to toes.
"There you have... a pretty maid for a pretty princess, with some patience and training, she can become a proper lady-in-waiting. Taff here will show her the ropes and you can have her then" assured Rufus.
"You must be jesting! I cannot be in her highness quarters alone. I... I'm a man and... she's... she's an unmarried maiden... such closeness and any physical contact is far too dishonorable. I won't bring her into such position of disrepute!" refused Taff outright "You can't expect me to help the princess, our only crown princess and future queen to be dressed, undressed and bathed by me... that's... that's just... that's entirely inappropriate and out of the question!" protested Taff in an ill contained cringe, the appointment acting against all moral codes he lived by.
"You got your orders, slave, get on with it or loose your hands and tongue" dismissed Rufus "Captain will want to dine with royalty, so make sure she has all the frills and propriety of a slave standing before her master" taunted and teased Rufus back slamming the door to the crafted wardrobe open to reveal the queen's dresses and jewels still kept intact within.
Taff Gelligen bowed before the princess in a courteous manner, inviting her to enter the room and looked up at Kendra with pleading eyes somewhat begging her to accept and come inside too, seeing no other way to safeguard the princess's honor.
"Set sail!" barked Rufus watching the pirates quickly scramble to raise the anchor, remove the planks and secure the vessel, readying it for the journey.
Taff was going about his usual business, relieved to have been given his manservant position back given his previous experience and reluctant assistance. He was bringing a tray of fine food expertly laid out for Calico Jack who had taken a liking for the royal manservant because Taff made Calico feel like a king and treated him like any other noble lord.
As Taff's path crossed Ryiah's own, he immediately recognized the crown princess, eyes wide open and dropped his knee to the ground humbly and most respectfully, ducking his head for further good measure. "Your... your... high... highness..." stammered Taff lightly coughing to clear his throat "Your highness, it is an honour to serve you here too, as usual. I remain your most loyal and faithful servant, despite the circumstances" assured Taff who had dropped the tray of food wide eyed and startled at her unexpected presence, now scrambling to clean it all up. "I'm so sorry for this mess, please forgive my clumsiness..." excused Taff now most certainly embarrassed and flushed at the misshap.
The ruckus Taff caused with the silver patter, alongside his most respectful salutation and formal royal greeting in line with the most rigurous protocol caused Sir Henry Morgan to notice the princess as well.
"Kill her! Kill the king's murderer! Kill the princess!" barked Sir Henry Morgan watching some of the stronger men, he himself included struggle and strain with the chains to carry out the order.
Rufus quickly stepped forward, two cutlass out and ready. He whistled to alert the crew at large, a smirk across his face that showed his yellowish teeth as if daring the army men to come and try to bring harm upon the two wenches he himself had invited onboard. At the whistle, the crew quickly took up arms ready to scuffle, coming to stand in the middle of the way and block the access between the navy commander and the outlawed princess.
Calico Jack frowned at the tumult, able to hear the barked out orders loud and clear, which caused curiosity upon the man. He examined the royal girl at a distance, watching and listening from his balcony as the events unfolded, not intervening unless he had to.
Sir Henry Morgan was known to dabble in piracy at convenience and was indeed very well trained in all arts and masteries of survival and escaping. He wasted no time to pick his own locks and chains open, grabbing two of his men and tossing them overboard for better measure. "Swim back and raise alarm! Full fleet out, chase down and drown this ship with or without me on it. The princess can't escape alive and unscathed!" barked Morgan releasing a row boat for better measure, watching the two appointed guards strain but manage to swim and row back to port.
No sooner he had done this, Dom Dimagio grabbed hold of the situation, having Morgan firmly seized.
"Ye'll meet the rope's end for that, me bucko!" assured the angered brigand.
"Next time ye'll dance the hempen jig" assured Dom Dimagio in a bark. No sooner he had finished such words, Morgan was tied to the main mast and a shower of lashes tore into his back, alongside a brutal beating,
Dom Dimagio was a stern master-at-arms who didn't tolerate the least defiance under his watchful eyes and Morgan had indeed crossed all boundaries. He left Morgan badly wounded, bleeding and unconscious, slumped on the ground against the appointed oar.
"Row harder... you bilge rats... or I toss him down to Davies Jones' locker, he be shark's bait then..." frowned Dom Dimagio dragging Morgan half ways over the railing to make good on his threat.
The guards quickly settled, wide eyed at the threat, rowing hard for the captain's sake. Once they returned to their silence, Dom Dimagio removed the dangling Morgain and chained him with twice as many chains, ropes and locks and left him unconscious and bleeding under the sun and salty water, sure to sting the man's back, leaving him dumped by the oar yet again. He could continue when he woke up, if he woke up.
Rufus chuckled loudly at seeing the honorable, well trained, loyal guards rowing as hard as they could to get the ship moving, standing to make better use of their force and strength, getting the brigantine sailing far faster than even the pirates had expected.
"Smart as paint, ye cowardly swabs, smart as paint" complimented Dom Dimagio with a smirk, going about his inspection of ropes, sails, crews and prisoners as if no incident had occurred at all, counting his blessings that Calico had not had to trouble to come and take back command of the ship. The navy officers serious and sober, rowing in full force and even rythm to ensure the survival of their leader.
"Come along... princess... we will be giving you a special treatment and room after all. We wouldn't want any premature harm to befall you, now, would we? Conrad pays double if you're returned alive after all... but first... you'll be sailing with us a while, to learn your place and some obedience, wenches like you are hard to find, not many maidens about lately see? I'm sure captain may want some enjoyment at your expense..." muttered Rufus well aware that the empire would pay a heavy ransom to lay hands on her to kill her
He brought Ryiah to her mother's former quarters, the most heavy guarded, opening the door and shoving Taff into the room, causing him to trip, for better measure. "He's not your usual maid, but he'll have to do for now..." muttered Rufus eyeing out Kendra head to toes.
"There you have... a pretty maid for a pretty princess, with some patience and training, she can become a proper lady-in-waiting. Taff here will show her the ropes and you can have her then" assured Rufus.
"You must be jesting! I cannot be in her highness quarters alone. I... I'm a man and... she's... she's an unmarried maiden... such closeness and any physical contact is far too dishonorable. I won't bring her into such position of disrepute!" refused Taff outright "You can't expect me to help the princess, our only crown princess and future queen to be dressed, undressed and bathed by me... that's... that's just... that's entirely inappropriate and out of the question!" protested Taff in an ill contained cringe, the appointment acting against all moral codes he lived by.
"You got your orders, slave, get on with it or loose your hands and tongue" dismissed Rufus "Captain will want to dine with royalty, so make sure she has all the frills and propriety of a slave standing before her master" taunted and teased Rufus back slamming the door to the crafted wardrobe open to reveal the queen's dresses and jewels still kept intact within.
Taff Gelligen bowed before the princess in a courteous manner, inviting her to enter the room and looked up at Kendra with pleading eyes somewhat begging her to accept and come inside too, seeing no other way to safeguard the princess's honor.
Kendra was surprised at everything, that went much smoother than she thought; after all, they didn't even take her weapons. Although, they did think she was just a harlot. As she saw the pleading eyes she basically flew into the room, and closed the door. She let out a sigh as she looked around, she moved over to Ryiah and looked her over. Then she looked at the other man, he she would have to look after carefully, she would love to reveal her plan to Kendra, but she couldn't trust that once learning she too was a fearsome pirate that the man would keep quiet.
"Well this won't be any fun, locked up like this." She brushing past the princess, attempting to hand off her sword so no one would see it. Then she walked over to Taft. Her steps were very trained and studious. "So a lady in waiting, that shouldn't be to hard." She pushed some of her white hair out of her dark blue eyes, she looked around the room as she walked, her eyes glazing over every little detail. Yes this could be a good spot to start from, save for the guards outside. Maybe she could take them if she could surprise them, but it wasn't very likely.
"Clean her, keep her company, all so very easy, you shouldn't be needed here for very long. You'll be out with the rest of the men in no time, no doubt." that's really what she wanted, but she might as well feel this one out too, see if he's a possible help to the cause, whatever cause that was. If she was lucky at dinner she would be able to go with the princess and see the captain that ran these mongrels he called a crew. That should be the real target. It would be a lot more difficult to take the ship from him, although that's where the fun would be.
"Well this won't be any fun, locked up like this." She brushing past the princess, attempting to hand off her sword so no one would see it. Then she walked over to Taft. Her steps were very trained and studious. "So a lady in waiting, that shouldn't be to hard." She pushed some of her white hair out of her dark blue eyes, she looked around the room as she walked, her eyes glazing over every little detail. Yes this could be a good spot to start from, save for the guards outside. Maybe she could take them if she could surprise them, but it wasn't very likely.
"Clean her, keep her company, all so very easy, you shouldn't be needed here for very long. You'll be out with the rest of the men in no time, no doubt." that's really what she wanted, but she might as well feel this one out too, see if he's a possible help to the cause, whatever cause that was. If she was lucky at dinner she would be able to go with the princess and see the captain that ran these mongrels he called a crew. That should be the real target. It would be a lot more difficult to take the ship from him, although that's where the fun would be.
Aboard her ship, Ryiah's gaze drank in each detail. It had been too long... but now ithe Nonesuch's beauty was marred by slaves and a crew which didn't love her properly. Ryiah reached out and ran a loving hamd hamd along the boats rail as she walked before Rufus, ignoring him for the moment. Her gaze then quickly went to all those she could see on deck, filing away their numbers.
Suddenly jolted out of her concentration, Ry nearly stumbled over Taff who had dropped his platter, and could be heard mumbling. After a moment she felt a flicker of recognition run through her. This was one of the servants who had attended her father. Her gaze flicked over him, assessing him briefly as she wondered if he was a traitor, one of those who had helped to kill the emperor. Yet his face was open, guileless, and she found herself willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, for now. She flicked a smile at him, strained though it was given the circumstances, and continued on a few steps. "Kill her!" Sir Henry Morgan's words shot through her like a knife and her gaze rounded on him as she went stiff, halting for the moment as she watched the spectacle. Her jaw set, eyes glittering. Did the man truly believe his own lie? Or did he want her dead so that the throne was more easily secured?
With barely a flicker of regret she watched them wip the man, before turning away, thinking of her father's still body lying on his bed after he had breathed his last. Then she was being prodded into the very room which had been her mothers, and a tight feeling welled in her breast as she gazed around. The touches her mother had put upon the room were still there, a woman's touch, soft and elegant. It had never been her preference, yet she still found it beautiful. A drawing of her mother and Ryiah stood on a small table, Ryiah dressed comfortably in seaworthy clothing, though tailored to fit her feminine body, but her mother still dressed in an empress's garb.
Turning suddenly to Rufus, having heard his words about Taff and Kendra, she rounded on him, moving a few swift steps closer, unafraid of the larger man. His words had caused her skin crawl in disgust at the thought, and she fought the flames which threatened to rise to her cheeks. Raising her chin to look defiantly up at the pirate, she spoke in low tones, her voice containing the melodic note that was usual in her people's language, yet she spoke Common. "You will take me to see the rogue who calls himself the captain here, and he will soon understand that it is in his best interests to return this ship to my command." Her eyes sparked defiantly. "He will be having no pleasure at my expense, of that you can inform him. Neither will the crew. I came aboard only to allow him to graciously return what is rightfully mine, and to perhaps thank him for helping me procure it from the guards."
Finished speaking she stepped back from Rufus, still watching him until he should choose to go. Then, she'd turn and regard the other two. A soft breath would finally escape her and a moments softness could be seen in her face and posture, then it was gone. "I won't be needing either of you to bathe or dress me. I have but one change of clothes, and those I can handle on my own. But first, I would have both of your names if you please."
If each should offer their names she would nod, then speak once again in soft yet urgent tones. "Please turn your back." She requested of the boy, waiting until he had done so before quickly divesting herself of the dress she had worn, glad to be rid of its vulnerability. Next she pulled her clothing from the satchel: a white half sleeve blouse, open a bit at the neck to give a hint of her curves beneath, well fitted pants went on next with a bright orange sash tied round to which she secured her sword and scabbard. Then soft boots were slipped on. She left her fiery hair uncontained for the time being.
Finally done, she told Taff he could turn back around. It had been uncomfortable to change while he was present, yet necessary. She couldn't go before their leader wearing skirts. These men had too quick of hands, which needed no prompting to lift such women's clothing. Still, her outfit now did nothing to diminish her beauty, of which she was not ashamed, it merely made it harder to access. Ready now she took a deep breath and glanced at the others.
"It will be difficult to take this ship. Perhaps unwise to try for the time being." She could tell Kendra was antsy and excited for some action. "Better to perhaps try and use pursuasion to urge their leader to take me where I wish. That way we have a crew. It is possible the slaves taken aboard would sail for me, if we were able to subdue the pirates. If pursuasion does not work, we will use that for plan B."
As she spoke, quietly in a near whisper of urgency, not knowing when a priate would return, she watched each for their reaction, hoping they'd be with her, and not against her. "I'll not force either of you. It is your decision." She said finally rising to begin pacing slightly. She hated the waiting as well, hated being cooped up, her freedom threatened.
Suddenly jolted out of her concentration, Ry nearly stumbled over Taff who had dropped his platter, and could be heard mumbling. After a moment she felt a flicker of recognition run through her. This was one of the servants who had attended her father. Her gaze flicked over him, assessing him briefly as she wondered if he was a traitor, one of those who had helped to kill the emperor. Yet his face was open, guileless, and she found herself willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, for now. She flicked a smile at him, strained though it was given the circumstances, and continued on a few steps. "Kill her!" Sir Henry Morgan's words shot through her like a knife and her gaze rounded on him as she went stiff, halting for the moment as she watched the spectacle. Her jaw set, eyes glittering. Did the man truly believe his own lie? Or did he want her dead so that the throne was more easily secured?
With barely a flicker of regret she watched them wip the man, before turning away, thinking of her father's still body lying on his bed after he had breathed his last. Then she was being prodded into the very room which had been her mothers, and a tight feeling welled in her breast as she gazed around. The touches her mother had put upon the room were still there, a woman's touch, soft and elegant. It had never been her preference, yet she still found it beautiful. A drawing of her mother and Ryiah stood on a small table, Ryiah dressed comfortably in seaworthy clothing, though tailored to fit her feminine body, but her mother still dressed in an empress's garb.
Turning suddenly to Rufus, having heard his words about Taff and Kendra, she rounded on him, moving a few swift steps closer, unafraid of the larger man. His words had caused her skin crawl in disgust at the thought, and she fought the flames which threatened to rise to her cheeks. Raising her chin to look defiantly up at the pirate, she spoke in low tones, her voice containing the melodic note that was usual in her people's language, yet she spoke Common. "You will take me to see the rogue who calls himself the captain here, and he will soon understand that it is in his best interests to return this ship to my command." Her eyes sparked defiantly. "He will be having no pleasure at my expense, of that you can inform him. Neither will the crew. I came aboard only to allow him to graciously return what is rightfully mine, and to perhaps thank him for helping me procure it from the guards."
Finished speaking she stepped back from Rufus, still watching him until he should choose to go. Then, she'd turn and regard the other two. A soft breath would finally escape her and a moments softness could be seen in her face and posture, then it was gone. "I won't be needing either of you to bathe or dress me. I have but one change of clothes, and those I can handle on my own. But first, I would have both of your names if you please."
If each should offer their names she would nod, then speak once again in soft yet urgent tones. "Please turn your back." She requested of the boy, waiting until he had done so before quickly divesting herself of the dress she had worn, glad to be rid of its vulnerability. Next she pulled her clothing from the satchel: a white half sleeve blouse, open a bit at the neck to give a hint of her curves beneath, well fitted pants went on next with a bright orange sash tied round to which she secured her sword and scabbard. Then soft boots were slipped on. She left her fiery hair uncontained for the time being.
Finally done, she told Taff he could turn back around. It had been uncomfortable to change while he was present, yet necessary. She couldn't go before their leader wearing skirts. These men had too quick of hands, which needed no prompting to lift such women's clothing. Still, her outfit now did nothing to diminish her beauty, of which she was not ashamed, it merely made it harder to access. Ready now she took a deep breath and glanced at the others.
"It will be difficult to take this ship. Perhaps unwise to try for the time being." She could tell Kendra was antsy and excited for some action. "Better to perhaps try and use pursuasion to urge their leader to take me where I wish. That way we have a crew. It is possible the slaves taken aboard would sail for me, if we were able to subdue the pirates. If pursuasion does not work, we will use that for plan B."
As she spoke, quietly in a near whisper of urgency, not knowing when a priate would return, she watched each for their reaction, hoping they'd be with her, and not against her. "I'll not force either of you. It is your decision." She said finally rising to begin pacing slightly. She hated the waiting as well, hated being cooped up, her freedom threatened.
"Your highness, I am Taff Gelligen, royal manservant to the Dormant Emperor... Cyprian Glycias Bet'Luna" recited Taff dutifully
"Now a few words of advice before making demands, I suggest your highness treads with wisdom and caution. You can't fight ice with ice or fire with fire, yet... with fire you can melt the ice and in turn its water will put out the fire.
The princess must know this ship now belongs to lawless crew who cares not for the empress legacy. The waters we sail are dangerous ones, your highness is but easy prey and a slave with no better fortune than any other damsel here, if they could still be called so by the time the journey is over. For your own safety, keep that in mind and consider yourself no better than a prisoner on this vessel. Defiance will only cause you harm and mayhap death if they tire enough. A few noteworthy details to take account of, whilst staying aboard.
The slaves from the navy only follow their commander, Sir Henry Morgan, to death and beyond, regardless of circumstances, and this commander of the armies and navy is most certainly convinced that you murdered your father. Not that you would do such a thing, but Lord Pentre is close to Sir Henry Morgan and can be very persuasive. Your escape didn't aid your cause either, to flee the kingdom with pirates protecting you is hardly the most honorable portray" noted Taff simply
"As I was explaining... these guards will sooner drown the ship with all of us on it, to ensure your death, than sail under your presence and watchful eyes, never mind command." informed Taff briefly "They will do anything for Sir Morgan and he will do anything to see you dead and your father avenged... not that he is really dead... but what do these sailors know..." muttered Taff thoughtfully "In any case, the only thing stopping their well trained hands is Calico's hold upon Morgan and the threat of harming the man." reported Taff
"As for your position, here is very precarious, no matter how good you think yourself to be with weaponry, there's strength in numbers. These pirates are, not only the most notorius, bloodthirsty and ruthless, but they are as solid as gold where loyalty is concerned, no less than the army, if more so. They will do as Calico commands and will follow no one else. Should Calico die, then by rank they will follow Rufus, the second in command, then Dom Dimagio the master-at-arms and so on. They have their established hierarchy and abide by their rules, try to interfere, try to take over the power and command and that'll be three corpses to feed the sharks with... ours." clarified Taff
"You are a prisoner of these rude pirates, your compliance will ensure you get to live, one day at a time, and you must comply to what you are asked to do, if you wish to live long enough to awaken the emperor.
"Collect the storm seeds, take them across the sea, reunite them, and I shall be free." recited Taff dutifully reminding the girl of her duty
"Such is no easy quest, these storm seeds lay upon the harshest islands, under the worse possible weather conditions, even the army could not brave such foul storms and strong currents, not to say rocky dangerous waters, but these men can... I am certain with these brigands you stand a good chance.
Your strength are your beauty, your wits and your persuasion. Calico Jack has no loyalty to anyone but himself, he can be bought and persuaded. Win his interest and the ship is pratically yours. About him... Lord Calico Jacksworth Pont-de-Ter used to be commander of the armies until he was sided and replaced by Sir Henry Morgan and, to date, he is still very sore about such rebuff, which was caused by frictions with lord Pentre." muttered Taff giving an overview of the position
"Calico is not an unreasonable man when he has something to gain out of it. He is also utterly vain, still craving the past lavish lifestyle of the palace... the music, balls, fine foods, lordly treatment he once had. Most of all, he is a terribly hopeless gambler, no less than Rufus. Use their weaknesses to bend them to your will" smiled Taff, opening parchment upon the table and spilling a strange golden powder, watching it catch flames briefly which extinguished, leaving but a burnt out blackened map clearly marking locations across rocky islands and reefs.
"These are the ruins where the storm seeds are kept. I cannot aid you further than this, I´m afraid, you have the map the rest is up to you. My first suggestion, being compliance, is that you choose your finest attire and indeed dress like a princess for Calico's benefit, you have much to gain out of his willingness to please you." smiled Taff
"If you wish to dress as you do, request it or bet for the right to dress as you please, with some luck and chances, you will slowly get what you want out of them, from the sidelines. See... I am not rowing like them and I am not lashed either, I have my manservant position back through compliance... you should try your charms" mused Taff selecting a different, more lavish dress and all the accessories that matched, bowing before the two women and turning to face the sea, not about to peek at the two ladies.
"Brains, not brawns, my ladies, you will have opportunity for both, with their drunken bets" muttered Taff letting the two girls talk among one another
"Now a few words of advice before making demands, I suggest your highness treads with wisdom and caution. You can't fight ice with ice or fire with fire, yet... with fire you can melt the ice and in turn its water will put out the fire.
The princess must know this ship now belongs to lawless crew who cares not for the empress legacy. The waters we sail are dangerous ones, your highness is but easy prey and a slave with no better fortune than any other damsel here, if they could still be called so by the time the journey is over. For your own safety, keep that in mind and consider yourself no better than a prisoner on this vessel. Defiance will only cause you harm and mayhap death if they tire enough. A few noteworthy details to take account of, whilst staying aboard.
The slaves from the navy only follow their commander, Sir Henry Morgan, to death and beyond, regardless of circumstances, and this commander of the armies and navy is most certainly convinced that you murdered your father. Not that you would do such a thing, but Lord Pentre is close to Sir Henry Morgan and can be very persuasive. Your escape didn't aid your cause either, to flee the kingdom with pirates protecting you is hardly the most honorable portray" noted Taff simply
"As I was explaining... these guards will sooner drown the ship with all of us on it, to ensure your death, than sail under your presence and watchful eyes, never mind command." informed Taff briefly "They will do anything for Sir Morgan and he will do anything to see you dead and your father avenged... not that he is really dead... but what do these sailors know..." muttered Taff thoughtfully "In any case, the only thing stopping their well trained hands is Calico's hold upon Morgan and the threat of harming the man." reported Taff
"As for your position, here is very precarious, no matter how good you think yourself to be with weaponry, there's strength in numbers. These pirates are, not only the most notorius, bloodthirsty and ruthless, but they are as solid as gold where loyalty is concerned, no less than the army, if more so. They will do as Calico commands and will follow no one else. Should Calico die, then by rank they will follow Rufus, the second in command, then Dom Dimagio the master-at-arms and so on. They have their established hierarchy and abide by their rules, try to interfere, try to take over the power and command and that'll be three corpses to feed the sharks with... ours." clarified Taff
"You are a prisoner of these rude pirates, your compliance will ensure you get to live, one day at a time, and you must comply to what you are asked to do, if you wish to live long enough to awaken the emperor.
"Collect the storm seeds, take them across the sea, reunite them, and I shall be free." recited Taff dutifully reminding the girl of her duty
"Such is no easy quest, these storm seeds lay upon the harshest islands, under the worse possible weather conditions, even the army could not brave such foul storms and strong currents, not to say rocky dangerous waters, but these men can... I am certain with these brigands you stand a good chance.
Your strength are your beauty, your wits and your persuasion. Calico Jack has no loyalty to anyone but himself, he can be bought and persuaded. Win his interest and the ship is pratically yours. About him... Lord Calico Jacksworth Pont-de-Ter used to be commander of the armies until he was sided and replaced by Sir Henry Morgan and, to date, he is still very sore about such rebuff, which was caused by frictions with lord Pentre." muttered Taff giving an overview of the position
"Calico is not an unreasonable man when he has something to gain out of it. He is also utterly vain, still craving the past lavish lifestyle of the palace... the music, balls, fine foods, lordly treatment he once had. Most of all, he is a terribly hopeless gambler, no less than Rufus. Use their weaknesses to bend them to your will" smiled Taff, opening parchment upon the table and spilling a strange golden powder, watching it catch flames briefly which extinguished, leaving but a burnt out blackened map clearly marking locations across rocky islands and reefs.
"These are the ruins where the storm seeds are kept. I cannot aid you further than this, I´m afraid, you have the map the rest is up to you. My first suggestion, being compliance, is that you choose your finest attire and indeed dress like a princess for Calico's benefit, you have much to gain out of his willingness to please you." smiled Taff
"If you wish to dress as you do, request it or bet for the right to dress as you please, with some luck and chances, you will slowly get what you want out of them, from the sidelines. See... I am not rowing like them and I am not lashed either, I have my manservant position back through compliance... you should try your charms" mused Taff selecting a different, more lavish dress and all the accessories that matched, bowing before the two women and turning to face the sea, not about to peek at the two ladies.
"Brains, not brawns, my ladies, you will have opportunity for both, with their drunken bets" muttered Taff letting the two girls talk among one another
Kendra looked at Taft, then back at Ryiah. "You must be kidding?" She asked looking at each of them. Kendra had left her previous household because of exactly that, all she was to do was to sit around and have hands find under her skirts and simply sit and try and move forwards, at snails pace. Her face seemed a bit annoyed if anything after this little excursion so far. "Miss you must be forgetting, that though maybe we have the high seat, we won't have it for long. If everything this man says is true, then i'm sure there are othr motives to keeping you here than just to use you for their own pleasures. Simple manipulation surely will take time, though some of them small witted, trying to manipulate a captain can take a long time, not to mention the rest of the crew."
She sighed and walked towards Ryiah. "What is the plan then?" She asked looking at Taff. "Manipulate the captain into doing something, then what does the crew do? Stage a mutiny and then we all go down. It's not the ones in power you need to worry about miss, it's the others as well, they're the numbers and you'd do well to remember that though he's a captain, these people are pirates."
She pushed a piece of hair behind her ear. "There is no way that just dressing and using our charms will get this ship in our pocket, people have more about them than that. Maybe jumping into the fire isn't the way to go, but look where we are? We're out at sea, and most men don't favor simple compliance. If I may," she said, "I suggest that we wait, if we immediately comply and try nothing, than it will simply seem that we're trying to do something. At the moment all these people know is that two women, one a princess, are on their ship. Now though your will is strong, showing some of that strength in the right places will show them that you are who you say, that you aren't trying to show them someone else. If you simply go after this Calico, trying to manipulate him without showing your strength and just complying, surely this man will see your true intentions."
She ran a hand threw the back of her hair, she was unsure of how to go about trying to convince her further. "Miss, please. Coming from a pirate herself, you cannot fight pirates with simple class and wisdom. You need to find their weaknesses before showing your own. So if I may suggest, go after the voice of the crew before this Calico, if your plan really is to get to these islands, having the crew on your side will have you there faster than just having the captain."
She sighed and walked towards Ryiah. "What is the plan then?" She asked looking at Taff. "Manipulate the captain into doing something, then what does the crew do? Stage a mutiny and then we all go down. It's not the ones in power you need to worry about miss, it's the others as well, they're the numbers and you'd do well to remember that though he's a captain, these people are pirates."
She pushed a piece of hair behind her ear. "There is no way that just dressing and using our charms will get this ship in our pocket, people have more about them than that. Maybe jumping into the fire isn't the way to go, but look where we are? We're out at sea, and most men don't favor simple compliance. If I may," she said, "I suggest that we wait, if we immediately comply and try nothing, than it will simply seem that we're trying to do something. At the moment all these people know is that two women, one a princess, are on their ship. Now though your will is strong, showing some of that strength in the right places will show them that you are who you say, that you aren't trying to show them someone else. If you simply go after this Calico, trying to manipulate him without showing your strength and just complying, surely this man will see your true intentions."
She ran a hand threw the back of her hair, she was unsure of how to go about trying to convince her further. "Miss, please. Coming from a pirate herself, you cannot fight pirates with simple class and wisdom. You need to find their weaknesses before showing your own. So if I may suggest, go after the voice of the crew before this Calico, if your plan really is to get to these islands, having the crew on your side will have you there faster than just having the captain."
Closing her eyes for a long moment after Taff's response, Ry tried to quell the automatic response which rose within her. She felt like pushing the suggestions away, hating the idea of catering to these rogue's desires and whims. She wasn't sure she could pretend to be something she was not. Yet wise words from her parents reminded her that sometimes being a true leader, meant following the advice of others - no matter how hard it may be.
Opening her eyes, she looked at Taff, her orange amber eyes kindled with a mixture of emotions, and a large dose of reluctance. "I will do as you say... for now. But I will not pretend to be someone other than I am." Her chin raised. "My pride is something they cannot take from me, nor can they truly take my birthright and heritage. They can enslave me, yet I am still a princess, heir to the empire my father built - and I will always remember such, and how they raised me." She moved forward to take the dress Taff offered, a soft sigh on her breath.
Finally, after the manservant turned round once more, she slowly and regretfully slipped back out of her sea garments. The dress was white, complimenting her fiery hair and amber eyes. A circlet went on her head, with a braclet encircling her smooth and lithe wrist. The back of the dress stopped just short of showing the ebony dragon scales on her back right shoulder blade, and she breathed a soft sigh of relief. No need to show those off, and invite questions for which she had no answers. The dress was light, one her mother had loved for the hot climate.
Once done, she glanced to Kendra to see if the other woman had donned a dress as well, figuring she'd bring her along if she possibly could when she was summoned. It would be nice to have another woman at her side. She listened to the woman's own advice, acknowledging it with a nod of her head. "I intend to show that I am strong. I will not simply be a charm on his arm. It is also a good idea to see if any of the crew and slaves could be turned to our side. While I am with their leader, perhaps this is a task you could do. But tread carefully. No hint of mutiny must be given. We simply want to know more about them. But if what Taff says is true, they are loyal to their leader. I think perhaps that this Calico, will want to find the storm seeds. I will show him that it is in his best interest. My plan will take time, but better that than throw away my chances to reclaim my empire."
Turning back to Taff she dipped her head. "Thank you for the information you offer, and the advice given. I plan on completing my father's quest, no matter where it leads. I plan on staying alive to do so." She thought of the strange rod she'd been given, as well as the map. It would take some thought to understand these clues, yet she had a beginning. From the look of the map, the first island was nearby, a place nearly completely composed of cliffs and crags. There she would find the first seed.
Continuing her pacing, form feminine and petite, yet agile and wiry from many excercises and sword routines. She gazed at her sword, which she had set near the corner of the room, wondering if she should bring it along anyway. Without it at her side she felt too vulnerable, as if something important was missing. Yet if she took it... she could place them all in more danger. A frown pulled her lips downward, and she waited impatiently, wondering if the Nonesuch had quit the docks yet. She hadn't felt the telltale lurch that signalled the ships sails unfurling, its sleek body moving away from her homeland. The thought made her glance toward the door, as if she could catch one last glimpse.
Opening her eyes, she looked at Taff, her orange amber eyes kindled with a mixture of emotions, and a large dose of reluctance. "I will do as you say... for now. But I will not pretend to be someone other than I am." Her chin raised. "My pride is something they cannot take from me, nor can they truly take my birthright and heritage. They can enslave me, yet I am still a princess, heir to the empire my father built - and I will always remember such, and how they raised me." She moved forward to take the dress Taff offered, a soft sigh on her breath.
Finally, after the manservant turned round once more, she slowly and regretfully slipped back out of her sea garments. The dress was white, complimenting her fiery hair and amber eyes. A circlet went on her head, with a braclet encircling her smooth and lithe wrist. The back of the dress stopped just short of showing the ebony dragon scales on her back right shoulder blade, and she breathed a soft sigh of relief. No need to show those off, and invite questions for which she had no answers. The dress was light, one her mother had loved for the hot climate.
Once done, she glanced to Kendra to see if the other woman had donned a dress as well, figuring she'd bring her along if she possibly could when she was summoned. It would be nice to have another woman at her side. She listened to the woman's own advice, acknowledging it with a nod of her head. "I intend to show that I am strong. I will not simply be a charm on his arm. It is also a good idea to see if any of the crew and slaves could be turned to our side. While I am with their leader, perhaps this is a task you could do. But tread carefully. No hint of mutiny must be given. We simply want to know more about them. But if what Taff says is true, they are loyal to their leader. I think perhaps that this Calico, will want to find the storm seeds. I will show him that it is in his best interest. My plan will take time, but better that than throw away my chances to reclaim my empire."
Turning back to Taff she dipped her head. "Thank you for the information you offer, and the advice given. I plan on completing my father's quest, no matter where it leads. I plan on staying alive to do so." She thought of the strange rod she'd been given, as well as the map. It would take some thought to understand these clues, yet she had a beginning. From the look of the map, the first island was nearby, a place nearly completely composed of cliffs and crags. There she would find the first seed.
Continuing her pacing, form feminine and petite, yet agile and wiry from many excercises and sword routines. She gazed at her sword, which she had set near the corner of the room, wondering if she should bring it along anyway. Without it at her side she felt too vulnerable, as if something important was missing. Yet if she took it... she could place them all in more danger. A frown pulled her lips downward, and she waited impatiently, wondering if the Nonesuch had quit the docks yet. She hadn't felt the telltale lurch that signalled the ships sails unfurling, its sleek body moving away from her homeland. The thought made her glance toward the door, as if she could catch one last glimpse.
Taff smiled at the ladies.
"To be honest, they probably stole this ship because of its wealth and beauty, nothing to do with the storm seeds, few know about those. Fact is that Morgan wants you dead, this means Calico will keep you alive simply to spite and taunt him" smiled Taff briefly escorting them to Calico Jack quarters returning to his serving duties and preparing and serving tea for them all
Calico Jack sat by the piano playing a tune when Taff returned. He stood up to greet the damsels properly, well familiar with royal protocol
"Welcome aboard" invited Calico in a warm calm voice
"To be honest, they probably stole this ship because of its wealth and beauty, nothing to do with the storm seeds, few know about those. Fact is that Morgan wants you dead, this means Calico will keep you alive simply to spite and taunt him" smiled Taff briefly escorting them to Calico Jack quarters returning to his serving duties and preparing and serving tea for them all
Calico Jack sat by the piano playing a tune when Taff returned. He stood up to greet the damsels properly, well familiar with royal protocol
"Welcome aboard" invited Calico in a warm calm voice
Kendra had dressed and was still against most of this plan, but did as she was needed to. She kept her wrist down against her skirt, hoping to hide her snake tattoo since it wasn't very lady like. She held her head high, glancing about the rest of the ship as they were escorted away, memorizing every thing. She would accompany behind Ryiah, allowing her to take the lead in this, although she was there for support. Although she didn't come unarmed, she still had her pistol, and sword under her skirt, if anything should go against them.
She would look around Calico's quarters, watching him greet them. She would give a small curtsey to him. She would stay as silent as possible, trying to keep her snarky comments to herself, figuring it would be better if she just let herself be seen over being heard.
She would look around Calico's quarters, watching him greet them. She would give a small curtsey to him. She would stay as silent as possible, trying to keep her snarky comments to herself, figuring it would be better if she just let herself be seen over being heard.
Ryiah entered Jack's chosen quarters with her head held high. The circlet on her brow glinted slightly, almost in spite of her trying to keep that same glint out of her eyes. Waiting until Taff left them with the pirate, she considered how to go about doing as he'd said.
The man before her, sitting and plinking out a tune, rising to greet them in fashion - almost seemed a mockery. Yet swallow this she must. With a glance to Kendra who was being oddly silent, she flicked her gaze back to Jack. She knew she needed to say something, yet the words seemed loathe to be forced out. Finally, she dipped her head to him, forcing the gesture to be a bit deeper than it would have otherwise been.
"Thank you for your hospitality this far." She managed, her gaze watching him carefully. He didn't seem terribly menacing. Her curiosity was suddenly piqued, and her anger momentarily faded. "She is a beautiful ship, is she not?" She asked, continuing the charade. "It will be a pleasure to sail the seas aboard her once more." She tried to keep her gaze soft, pushing at the defiance that kept threatening to spark fire within her gaze. Despite her success at this, she could not completely quell the sarcasm that crept into her voice, coloring it so faintly it could nearly be missed.
"It was so kind of you to liberate my ship from the soldiers." Well, that was true. It had been helpful... in a way. And in many others, not so helpful. She kept her voice sweet, reaching a hand up to catch a few stray fiery red curls in a finger to twirl.
Even as she tried to speak all of these words, she hoped that Taff would return soon with the refreshments, giving her something to do . She bit her lower lip as she awaited Jack's response, the habitual gesture perhaps uncontiously adding to her appearance of vulnerability.
The man before her, sitting and plinking out a tune, rising to greet them in fashion - almost seemed a mockery. Yet swallow this she must. With a glance to Kendra who was being oddly silent, she flicked her gaze back to Jack. She knew she needed to say something, yet the words seemed loathe to be forced out. Finally, she dipped her head to him, forcing the gesture to be a bit deeper than it would have otherwise been.
"Thank you for your hospitality this far." She managed, her gaze watching him carefully. He didn't seem terribly menacing. Her curiosity was suddenly piqued, and her anger momentarily faded. "She is a beautiful ship, is she not?" She asked, continuing the charade. "It will be a pleasure to sail the seas aboard her once more." She tried to keep her gaze soft, pushing at the defiance that kept threatening to spark fire within her gaze. Despite her success at this, she could not completely quell the sarcasm that crept into her voice, coloring it so faintly it could nearly be missed.
"It was so kind of you to liberate my ship from the soldiers." Well, that was true. It had been helpful... in a way. And in many others, not so helpful. She kept her voice sweet, reaching a hand up to catch a few stray fiery red curls in a finger to twirl.
Even as she tried to speak all of these words, she hoped that Taff would return soon with the refreshments, giving her something to do . She bit her lower lip as she awaited Jack's response, the habitual gesture perhaps uncontiously adding to her appearance of vulnerability.
"Please be seated" offered Calico Jack elegantly dressed for the occasion but keeping his sword and daggers to hand, all too aware of the dangers of lowering one's guard. He came over removing a chair opposite his to help her sit with gallantry, glancing at Rufus to do the same for her companion, since clearly the man had his eyes set on that fiery woman.
"This is indeed the finest vessel in the kingdom, princess. I sailed aboard even before you were yet to be born, I was escorting your mother, the Empress, at the time" nodded Calico "We may be pirates but not all of us are brutes, rest assured no damage will come to this fine vessel if it can be helped" assured with a charming smile.
"I trust all is well aboard? If anything is amiss do let me know..." encouraged Calico watching Taff return to fill the goblets and crystalware with wines, juices and water
"I am bitten by curiosity, so indulge me, why exactly did you choose this ship, the most attention grabbing and heavy guarded one, for your escape? Princesses and outlawed pirates make an unusual combination..." trailed off Calico his eyes briefly gazing at the other woman
"I have no doubt, king Conrad would double his bounty if I were to inform him you have fallen into my hands and left at my rather limited mercy, but, the fact that I will be treating you better than a common slave, it will anger captain Henry Morgan all the more so, and that sweet revenge is priceless to me" smirked Calico with a broader smile
"Never did I get such a satisfaction as to watch him furious yet helpless whilst you blatantly escape in broad daylight, from his army and justice at his expense, using his own men and even himself to sail away into freedom." grinned Calico Jack, clearly enjoying the situation
"Taff Gelligen, your royal manservant, saved my life back at the barracks, albeit unwittingly and reluctantly. In return, he demands you are treated with the respect your position demands, your royal highness, so I assure you that your honor will be kept somewhat intact, you won't be forced into motherhood onboard this ship" muttered Calico "I owe the boy a debt after all, his wish shall be granted and respected" assured Calico
"Now then, were you simply running away from a certain death sentence like some of us, here, or did you have a destination in mind?" quizzed the captain examining her figure, her attire and every detail about her which he found most pleasant indeed
"This is indeed the finest vessel in the kingdom, princess. I sailed aboard even before you were yet to be born, I was escorting your mother, the Empress, at the time" nodded Calico "We may be pirates but not all of us are brutes, rest assured no damage will come to this fine vessel if it can be helped" assured with a charming smile.
"I trust all is well aboard? If anything is amiss do let me know..." encouraged Calico watching Taff return to fill the goblets and crystalware with wines, juices and water
"I am bitten by curiosity, so indulge me, why exactly did you choose this ship, the most attention grabbing and heavy guarded one, for your escape? Princesses and outlawed pirates make an unusual combination..." trailed off Calico his eyes briefly gazing at the other woman
"I have no doubt, king Conrad would double his bounty if I were to inform him you have fallen into my hands and left at my rather limited mercy, but, the fact that I will be treating you better than a common slave, it will anger captain Henry Morgan all the more so, and that sweet revenge is priceless to me" smirked Calico with a broader smile
"Never did I get such a satisfaction as to watch him furious yet helpless whilst you blatantly escape in broad daylight, from his army and justice at his expense, using his own men and even himself to sail away into freedom." grinned Calico Jack, clearly enjoying the situation
"Taff Gelligen, your royal manservant, saved my life back at the barracks, albeit unwittingly and reluctantly. In return, he demands you are treated with the respect your position demands, your royal highness, so I assure you that your honor will be kept somewhat intact, you won't be forced into motherhood onboard this ship" muttered Calico "I owe the boy a debt after all, his wish shall be granted and respected" assured Calico
"Now then, were you simply running away from a certain death sentence like some of us, here, or did you have a destination in mind?" quizzed the captain examining her figure, her attire and every detail about her which he found most pleasant indeed
Ryiah took the seat offered by Jack, moving gracefully and fluidly to settle into it, back straight, hoping her scales did not show. She offered another smile as Kendra was also seated. Even if the pleasantries were an act, the pirate was doing a good job so far. Her gaze moved back to him, examining him almost as mucb as she noticed his gaze lingering on her every curve and feature. The dress would offer his eyes a sample of such, while still holding most of her secrets behind the beautiful white length. His scrutiny, left a light blush on her cheeks, despite her wishes. She was surprised to hear that Taff had any sway with this man, and she had to resist throwing him a grateful glance, lest she cause him grief by it.
Once Jack had finished speaking, and settled down to feast his eyes, she knew he awaited her answer. Trying to compose the words in her mind she began, her voice soft but determined. "My mother never told me she sailed with pirates..." she began, raising an eyebrow but somehow believing him. As she spoke, her facade and sarcasm flickered and fell away for the moment, leaving her fiery spirit and sharp wit behind. "My reasons for choosing this ship were many. It is part of my birthright and I wanted to see she was sailed properly..." here she paused, reminded of Taffs caution, then added "even if I was not allowed to be in command of her," dropping her eyes a moment, then continued - "it was one of the only sure ways I would not be caught and dragged back to face judgment for a crime I didn't commit. And yes, so far you have done a remarkable job." A fact that she found herself reluctant to admit.
She paused, taking a sip of wine as she tried to figure out how much to tell the man. How could she pursuade him to help her? Flicking her gaze back to his she went on, knowing he was expecting more. "But you are also correct in saying that I have plans other than merely saving my own neck. My father, with his dying breath, left me a quest." She placed the map on the table then, sliding it so Jack could see, her eyes on him as she felt a flutter of nervousness. Would he take her to the islands? Or would she be trapped here, a slave, unable to finish her quest?
"He told me there were treasures beyond belief, called storm seeds, on each of those islands. I am to find them all and bring them to the last location marked. Finishing such a quest will change the course of events in a way the whole world might become aware of." She leaned forward, her gaze intense, "you could be more famous than you already are.... and there could be riches involved as well." Perhaps not immediately, but she wasn't going to add that. If it came down to it, she could see him rewarded if she became empress - which brought her mind around to one of the first things he'd said...
He had said they would keep her honor mostly intact. Nervousness snaked through her again, though she tried to keep it from her face. The man before her held her life in his hands, loathe though she was to admit it. It was the first time she had ever been at the mercy of someone else - a man and a pirate no less - and she fervently hoped it was the last. Then, she reminded herself - Whatever it takes Ry... you will do it.
Another thought popped into her mind and she looked at Rufus who was oggling Kendra. "I hope that you will keep my lady in waiting's honor intact as well." She said, the words sounding awkward to her, leaving the 'mostly' part out.
Once Jack had finished speaking, and settled down to feast his eyes, she knew he awaited her answer. Trying to compose the words in her mind she began, her voice soft but determined. "My mother never told me she sailed with pirates..." she began, raising an eyebrow but somehow believing him. As she spoke, her facade and sarcasm flickered and fell away for the moment, leaving her fiery spirit and sharp wit behind. "My reasons for choosing this ship were many. It is part of my birthright and I wanted to see she was sailed properly..." here she paused, reminded of Taffs caution, then added "even if I was not allowed to be in command of her," dropping her eyes a moment, then continued - "it was one of the only sure ways I would not be caught and dragged back to face judgment for a crime I didn't commit. And yes, so far you have done a remarkable job." A fact that she found herself reluctant to admit.
She paused, taking a sip of wine as she tried to figure out how much to tell the man. How could she pursuade him to help her? Flicking her gaze back to his she went on, knowing he was expecting more. "But you are also correct in saying that I have plans other than merely saving my own neck. My father, with his dying breath, left me a quest." She placed the map on the table then, sliding it so Jack could see, her eyes on him as she felt a flutter of nervousness. Would he take her to the islands? Or would she be trapped here, a slave, unable to finish her quest?
"He told me there were treasures beyond belief, called storm seeds, on each of those islands. I am to find them all and bring them to the last location marked. Finishing such a quest will change the course of events in a way the whole world might become aware of." She leaned forward, her gaze intense, "you could be more famous than you already are.... and there could be riches involved as well." Perhaps not immediately, but she wasn't going to add that. If it came down to it, she could see him rewarded if she became empress - which brought her mind around to one of the first things he'd said...
He had said they would keep her honor mostly intact. Nervousness snaked through her again, though she tried to keep it from her face. The man before her held her life in his hands, loathe though she was to admit it. It was the first time she had ever been at the mercy of someone else - a man and a pirate no less - and she fervently hoped it was the last. Then, she reminded herself - Whatever it takes Ry... you will do it.
Another thought popped into her mind and she looked at Rufus who was oggling Kendra. "I hope that you will keep my lady in waiting's honor intact as well." She said, the words sounding awkward to her, leaving the 'mostly' part out.
Kendra was trying to stay as calm and lady like as possible, it was not to her liking. The buffoon that ogled her kept her slightly out of the conversations. Though she was listening, she was thinking of all the terrible things that could happen to him on this ship. When Ryiah said lady in waiting, she glanced around with an elegant smile, trying to uphold it. Why was this so hard for her?
Kendra could feel her nervousness and gave her a small nod, barely visible if you weren't looking for it, which is why she hoped Ryiah was. She was doing well so far, Kendra was surprised to say the least, although she wasn't helping as much as she could. "My lady is too kind." She would say quietly, sending what would be barely a glance of nervousness to the man Rufus, which would hide the true daggers in her eyes.
Kendra could feel her nervousness and gave her a small nod, barely visible if you weren't looking for it, which is why she hoped Ryiah was. She was doing well so far, Kendra was surprised to say the least, although she wasn't helping as much as she could. "My lady is too kind." She would say quietly, sending what would be barely a glance of nervousness to the man Rufus, which would hide the true daggers in her eyes.
Taff Gelligen gawked, eyes wide open at the statement
"Beg your pardon?! With due respect, that is the most incorrect, inaccurate and unbelievable account of events I have ever heard" countered Taff, horrified to hear such words.
"I have not aided anyone escape from the royal dungeons at all! I am not guilty of any such act of high treason as you just claimed. I was... merely... doing my duty... delivering food at the barracks when you took it into your hands to steal the knife from my tray, kill a guard and force my hand to break out from jail, at my expense, by the point of a knife. May I remind your lordship that I am a captive here? Hardly pirate material..." corrected Taff feeling blushed, flushed and suffocated that Calico would make such an accusatory statement, before the queen herself, indicating or insinuating that Taff, a royal manservant, would dare break free a prisoner from the dungeons. Such foul deed was high treason and Taff was anything but a traitor.
Calico smiled broadly if teasingly at Taff's anxious looks, before composing himself to return to the conversation.
"Unlike some aboard, I have not always been a pirate, my lady. When I escorted your mother I wasn't a pirate at the time. I was lord Calico Jacksworth Pont-de-Ter, your highness, the lord commander of the army before I was deposed for failing to find all the required storm seeds and failing protect well enough the ones I had collected already" muttered Calico in a light uncomfortable cough
"Storm seeds are rare amber stones the seize of a fist, of a particular colour, each different, that contain a strange power within. There is a glow that shines forth from them when placed in the rightful hands" explained Calico admitting his failure
"Lord Tron Pentre, the newly appointed royal head scribe at the time, informed the king I had failed in my task of retrieving all the gems and keeping the ones we had safe because I was a selfish traitor, a pirate, who sold the few we had managed to get over the years for the sake of personal enrichment. Turns out that our Rufus here had taken it into his hands to steal them from the royal vaults on orders and instructions of lord Pentre who wanted Sir Henry Morgan in charge of the army instead, it suited his shady business better" explained Calico still remembering the time they met
"Rufus was a child, a skinny young street rat back then, a petty thief, a vagabond that roamed the streets looking for scrap to sell on or pick up odd jobs to do to make a living for him and his sister marion, both orphans already. He was taken into the castle service on compassionate grounds, by your mother, and was appointed to work at the royal dungeons, sweeping floors and polishing armour. The armory, as you well know is right next to the royal vaults, where some of these stones were kept..." commented Calico
"Rufus was promised a better position by a certain lord scribe, he was but a naive boy at the time, very gullible. He thought Pentre would pay him in gold after the last storm seed was removed. Instead he was betrayed openly and caught with it in the pocket. The boy was chained, charged and sentenced to hang for royal theft. During the trial, I stood up and accepted guilt so that the boy and his scallywag sister would be spared. I made myself pass for the scheming culprit. Needless to say the pair went free and I was discharged from further duty in dishonor, my good reputation tarnished. I was removed from all rank and post and vanquished from the lands for five years, those loyal to me back then still make most of my crew today, including the thieving git. I was spared the capital punishment on account of previous good services rendered to the empress, she intervened to lessen my death sentence." explained Calico Jack
"But those days of honor and loyalty and service to the crown are long gone, we're mercenaries these days, madame, for the right price, we can be your crew but... what will you offer to each of us that is worth this ship and a full crew?" quizzed Calico interested
"As for your lady-in-waiting I am sorry, your highness, that lass is spoken for. I can't deny my second in command a pick of any lady or lad onboard, it's the rules, unfortunately" apologized Calico knowing better than to take Rufus toy away
At the words of acceptance from the captain, Rufus brought his chair over to Kendra, sitting much too close to Kendra, wrapping one arm around her shoulders to pull her closer as if they were best of friends.
"Now, lass, I hope you're not the jealous type, I've got three ladies in my life already, lady Luck, lady Rum and lady Cutlass. Don't be offended if you are sided, lady Rum is very intoxicating, enough to not find my pillow, never mind you." explained Rufus brushing aside the idea of an adult relationship with the woman, clearly living for simple vices instead.
"Now you seem a sailor's lass to me, one with guts for sure to come up aboard willingly and I can tell there's more fire in your eyes than in the hearth of a tavern, so, let's see how you handle my two lovers, drinking and gambling, shall we?" prompted Rufus, taking rum and pouring a goblet full for Kendra, he himself having one as well. "waste not, want not" informed Rufus bringing the brimming goblet over to her.
He pushed aside the boring chess board making it fall from the table and slammed cup in front of Kendra, with three dice in it, clearly, dices and luck being his gambling flaw. He himself having a cup too. "Best of three throws wins" smirked and grinned the man.
"If I win... you get to wear attire of my choice, I quite like eyeing out ladies after all and you will have to give a kiss to anyone onboard of my choice" mumbled Rufus "We shall have a half an hour long dance, dance with swords on deck of course, no retreat and no quarters" prompted Rufus, treating Kendra as his new gambling partner and so on equal status, level and footing.
"What's your dare if you win?" quizzed Rufus curious as to her preferences
"Beg your pardon?! With due respect, that is the most incorrect, inaccurate and unbelievable account of events I have ever heard" countered Taff, horrified to hear such words.
"I have not aided anyone escape from the royal dungeons at all! I am not guilty of any such act of high treason as you just claimed. I was... merely... doing my duty... delivering food at the barracks when you took it into your hands to steal the knife from my tray, kill a guard and force my hand to break out from jail, at my expense, by the point of a knife. May I remind your lordship that I am a captive here? Hardly pirate material..." corrected Taff feeling blushed, flushed and suffocated that Calico would make such an accusatory statement, before the queen herself, indicating or insinuating that Taff, a royal manservant, would dare break free a prisoner from the dungeons. Such foul deed was high treason and Taff was anything but a traitor.
Calico smiled broadly if teasingly at Taff's anxious looks, before composing himself to return to the conversation.
"Unlike some aboard, I have not always been a pirate, my lady. When I escorted your mother I wasn't a pirate at the time. I was lord Calico Jacksworth Pont-de-Ter, your highness, the lord commander of the army before I was deposed for failing to find all the required storm seeds and failing protect well enough the ones I had collected already" muttered Calico in a light uncomfortable cough
"Storm seeds are rare amber stones the seize of a fist, of a particular colour, each different, that contain a strange power within. There is a glow that shines forth from them when placed in the rightful hands" explained Calico admitting his failure
"Lord Tron Pentre, the newly appointed royal head scribe at the time, informed the king I had failed in my task of retrieving all the gems and keeping the ones we had safe because I was a selfish traitor, a pirate, who sold the few we had managed to get over the years for the sake of personal enrichment. Turns out that our Rufus here had taken it into his hands to steal them from the royal vaults on orders and instructions of lord Pentre who wanted Sir Henry Morgan in charge of the army instead, it suited his shady business better" explained Calico still remembering the time they met
"Rufus was a child, a skinny young street rat back then, a petty thief, a vagabond that roamed the streets looking for scrap to sell on or pick up odd jobs to do to make a living for him and his sister marion, both orphans already. He was taken into the castle service on compassionate grounds, by your mother, and was appointed to work at the royal dungeons, sweeping floors and polishing armour. The armory, as you well know is right next to the royal vaults, where some of these stones were kept..." commented Calico
"Rufus was promised a better position by a certain lord scribe, he was but a naive boy at the time, very gullible. He thought Pentre would pay him in gold after the last storm seed was removed. Instead he was betrayed openly and caught with it in the pocket. The boy was chained, charged and sentenced to hang for royal theft. During the trial, I stood up and accepted guilt so that the boy and his scallywag sister would be spared. I made myself pass for the scheming culprit. Needless to say the pair went free and I was discharged from further duty in dishonor, my good reputation tarnished. I was removed from all rank and post and vanquished from the lands for five years, those loyal to me back then still make most of my crew today, including the thieving git. I was spared the capital punishment on account of previous good services rendered to the empress, she intervened to lessen my death sentence." explained Calico Jack
"But those days of honor and loyalty and service to the crown are long gone, we're mercenaries these days, madame, for the right price, we can be your crew but... what will you offer to each of us that is worth this ship and a full crew?" quizzed Calico interested
"As for your lady-in-waiting I am sorry, your highness, that lass is spoken for. I can't deny my second in command a pick of any lady or lad onboard, it's the rules, unfortunately" apologized Calico knowing better than to take Rufus toy away
At the words of acceptance from the captain, Rufus brought his chair over to Kendra, sitting much too close to Kendra, wrapping one arm around her shoulders to pull her closer as if they were best of friends.
"Now, lass, I hope you're not the jealous type, I've got three ladies in my life already, lady Luck, lady Rum and lady Cutlass. Don't be offended if you are sided, lady Rum is very intoxicating, enough to not find my pillow, never mind you." explained Rufus brushing aside the idea of an adult relationship with the woman, clearly living for simple vices instead.
"Now you seem a sailor's lass to me, one with guts for sure to come up aboard willingly and I can tell there's more fire in your eyes than in the hearth of a tavern, so, let's see how you handle my two lovers, drinking and gambling, shall we?" prompted Rufus, taking rum and pouring a goblet full for Kendra, he himself having one as well. "waste not, want not" informed Rufus bringing the brimming goblet over to her.
He pushed aside the boring chess board making it fall from the table and slammed cup in front of Kendra, with three dice in it, clearly, dices and luck being his gambling flaw. He himself having a cup too. "Best of three throws wins" smirked and grinned the man.
"If I win... you get to wear attire of my choice, I quite like eyeing out ladies after all and you will have to give a kiss to anyone onboard of my choice" mumbled Rufus "We shall have a half an hour long dance, dance with swords on deck of course, no retreat and no quarters" prompted Rufus, treating Kendra as his new gambling partner and so on equal status, level and footing.
"What's your dare if you win?" quizzed Rufus curious as to her preferences
rolled 3d6 and got 11
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