Warships

Yorro 341 

Merchants and sailors filled the wooden docks like a swarm of ants, colors and sweaty bodies packed together carrying crates, rope, palisades of rich nobles, all gathered at Leona’s  Docklands. The onset of spring had brought warm winds with the trade and many individuals took the opportunity to peddle their wares or cart in imports of fine wines, spices, and  paints for the colored buildings. Though most headed along the winding streets to the destination of the Market Bridge, a few more shady characters lingered in the alleyways, bartering and laughing over the fine folk passing by. Most had bottles of rum and ale in hand, a few gambling others goods with dice and cards. Not like any guard would stop their activity, it was much too crowded and any attempts to chase criminals out would simply lose both the guards time and effort. Instead most vyed to watch over the rich folk for a pretty coin and pretend they saw nothing illicit in the streets. It would only be for a few days before the swarm made its way North to other ports. 

Instead of hawking his own wares, Yorro stood at the back corner of the alley, waiting for his time to make coin, and the folks of this place saw him as another nameless face. The ghosts had set up shop in a nearby basement, vacated of its usual squatters, and he entrusted them to keep the unassuming pile of crab legs and spoiled fish company. Though the effort to do such had some beads of sweat at his temple, this would be a long day. He’d dab a cloth to his forehead, coming back with a spot of red despite the clear lack of any cuts on his person, swiftly stowing the stained rag into a pocket of his long coat. He’d then take out a small hand-drawn map, more symbols than anything and peruse it to pass time, might as well familiarize himself with some locations of the colorful city, most involving women and ale houses. 

Maxin: 553

Ships of various sizes continued to pull into and out of port, making this a very difficult highway to maneuver through. The Dread cleared a path for Maxin and his crew to follow behind, and they made it to the docks after an hour of circling the area for naval scum. Eyes turned towards a familiar hideous beast crawling into the open docking zone. She dwarfed the other ships beside her and her dark flags matched the planks. One of the ships you do not want to see around your city, but when she began to unload, people’s eyes turned for a stranger reason. Besides her, the Empress came in a little fast and almost bumped against the posts. Maxin’s crew was fast to get to work. Massive ropes were thrown out to die down the smaller sibling ship, and ladders were tossed out. The men began to depart the vessel with Maxin at the front. He paid for space on the harbor’s lot, where Chakiina would be expected to pay double. 

Men and women watched them, waiting to see what would be done. His daughter approached with a nod and behind her, the crew unloaded large barrels to the docks. Gulls started to swarm the ship, meaning they had hauled in a large catch. Maxin grinned when a crowd began to gather as scales the size of a man’s arm was unstacked. Chakiina stood upon a crate and cupped her hands around her mouth.

“COME, gather all ye eyes! See for yourselves! Straight from Monster’s Cavern, the sea has given us a fight with one of her own!”

They dragged out two limbs and some of the largest teeth that most people have ever seen… a sea monster, or serpent as some would come to call them, had been slain. Word traveled fast and soon the entire dock was packed with interested parties. Men and women fought to get a view, and when Chakiina started bargenning, chaos broke out. Max split out a loud laugh and brought his entire crew in to fight back the crowd. He helped them figure prices on scales and the meat, it was a battle and little by little they began to sell out of the few barrels they had brought from the belly of the ship. There was plenty more of course, but they would save it for a later time with the more valuable parts. 

Maxin was clad in a black and gold jacket, gold attire, and a rich golden collar. His black cape had been tattered by the flames that had been knocked onto the ship, but other than that he and his daughter looked fierce with their crew. They soon drew the interest of the guards that had to fight to get order back to the docks. A harbormaster was produced and approached Chakiina to know what her business was.

“Why- we’re hunters.” She grinned. “Monster hunters.. see for yourself. I trust our docking will be welcomed in the future.”

“Y-yes, please, come any time… and congratulations on your beast… I assume you have quite the story to tell…”

Maxin departed them and scanned his eyes over the crowd, waiting for it to thin out a bit so he could figure out where to put his crew for the rest of the night.

Yorro: 325

Commotion from the docks had drawn many eyes, including the rich merchant lounging against the wall of the alley, enough to peel him from his rest and out into the sunlight. He’d have plenty of  time to watch the ship barrel into port, its impressive dark planks and flags telling Yorro all he needed to know. The crew unloaded swiftly and with precision which told of a stern Captain, and he found his attention drawn to a woman shouting out barters and haggling with the gathering crowds. What they sold would normally be what had him, but these people were pirates if he ever saw, and he was very familiar with the like.

Not long after his watching, the crowds had cleared out what they came to offload and he’d scan the groupings for the Captain of the larger ship. Could he interest them in some newly smuggled weapons, take that fresh gold off their hands? A sturdy man would approach from the alleyway, pausing just behind his shoulder to whisper. Ah, yes, the goods. He couldn’t linger far before his magic lost effect, and it was taxing enough to be out here after recent events, yet the change of scenery was a welcomed respite.

“Go find whoever calls that ship Captain.” He’d nod towards the boats before retreating back into the shade and towards the stores. If he was lucky he might have caught the sight of whoever it was, as he made a point to linger in the open, watching and waiting. While not of this place, most knew individuals like him had deals to break.

The man he’d ordered would look his way with such an expression that he thought his employer was requisitioning his usual interests, a look that was ignored. He was much too busy and the sun still stood high in the sky, a few drinks would be needed before anything was on the table outside of official business. 

Max: 370

“Ha- Maxin you truly are an old fool but, I welcome anymore of your crazy ideas.” Chakiina snorted out a crazy laugh and watched her accountant run to and fro between the flow of cash and the ship’s hold. He only nodded. 

“Glad it payed off-“

“AYE- How’d ya slay a beast like that…?” An older man approached with a small crowd around him. 

“Do not even start to ask me,” Chakiina said. “Ask this old man here, it was all his idea. His fight.” She followed her men back to her ship to begin cleaning and scrubbing the hell out of that deck. It smelled like fish guts, and the gulls loved it.

The older men turned to Max, and he suddenly felt pinned down by eyes.

“Aye- it’s true. My daughter had wanted nothin’ to do with ‘er.”

Another man joined the crowd but one that looked a bit strange, Max ignored him and began his story anyways.

“I used t’be a whaler, where I learned some tricks of the trade- these sea monsters are just big whales- aye? Ha, except she jumps out of the water once and yer ship is capsized. She don’t run, she comes t’fight. Teeth as large as a grown man, eyes blacker than a moonless night. This beauty we went after was at least three times that ship o’er there,” Maxin pointed to the Dread. “Went out early mornin’ and chummed the waters-“

“What’d ya use as bait?” A man asked, but Maxin got really quiet. They all exchanged a nervous look.

“What sorta blood would bring in a beast that big…? Whale.”

“Damn…”

Maxin finished telling the story of how many harpoons they had to latch into the creature, and how the fight lasted an entire day. He captured their attention and when the story was done, leaving out some important details so it couldn’t be repeated, he was approached.

“Are you the Captain?”

He straightened up and twisted his face in a light snarl.

“Of the Empress, the ship behind me. That ship there belongs to m’daughter.” The dark man tipped his chin up and shood the man away. “Unless ya got somethin’ good, N’more questions, got shit to do.” 

Yorro: 428

“What sort of shit?” The man inquired, he looked to be a random man by his attire, not of the dock sort, not rich nor poor, though his lapel had a pin shaped like the open maw of a beast, all fangs. “My employer is here on business, your ship and quarry intrigued him, are you perhaps interested in some weaponry to aid such endeavors?” The man tilted his dark mopped head, eying the two ships as both were introduced. He’d not much of an opinion of it and simply came to request an audience. Should it be declined, he’d make his way to his next station. There was always others. 

The cellar stink wafted into the alley as Yorro rounded the corner to the unremarkable iron hatch that led down damn steps into the dark underbelly of the rotting buildings. His handiwork partly to blame, though the alleys reeked on a good day, even in Faline. Two of his shadows lingered in the darkness just inside, not stepping out of their concealment as he entered. He’d not pay them mind as he made his way to the back room, speaking in his wake, “If we have guests, make them as welcome as possible.” 

He’d shove open a rickety wooden door into the stores, crates piled high and seemingly seeping brown slime, all very effective tangible illusions as their actual contents were hardly fish byproduct and stray oozing claws. No, they instead harbored fine weaponry, guns, blades, a few harpoons, things he’d suspect folks of this area to find interest, though he did keep stash of other goods, in event of other clients. The young man would soon find himself at a desk stuffed in the back corner of the room, sitting roughly in a chair to conserve his energy. A ledger of forged information sat atop it, notes of fishing catches, earnings and such, and a safe at the back of the room. It was a decoy for the real thing, made as Yorro knew to expect the worst on any dealing days outside the familiar streets of home. 

With a bored sigh he’d lean forward on his folded hands, nothing to do but wait as it was, nightfall might bring more business if the inquiries didn’t do the job. Either he’d see the impartial face of the ghost he’s sent to find the Captain, or he’d see the latter. At least this time was better than lingering at home like a battered dog. The less he saw of any of his kin, the better the day.

Max: 198

Narrowing his eyes, he was half tempted to pick up the man and throw him into the bay. The only thing that saved him was the offer on weapons.. yeah, they would need those. They had received their harpoons and had plenty of weapons the way it was but… Max was curious, gay, and loved to shop. 

Whirling around on his heel, Maxin’s crimson eyes traveled over his crew and searching for a specific man. 

“Percy!” A man of an average build approached immediately, a bit of sweat on his golden brow-line. 

“Aye, Captain?”

“Yer in charge of the crew.” Maxin handed over the whip that was coiled up at his belt. “If I’m gone for more than an hour, tell Chakiina.”

“Aye, Captain… what should I tell her?”

“Max went to look at shiny shit.”

“Aye.” Percy left back to the boat and Maxin returned his attention to this stranger.

“Any of this turns South, an’ I’ll have yer skeleton mounted to the bow o’ the ship, got it? Let’s see ‘em weapons ye speak of.” His threat was to prevent any sketchy dealing, and to let this guy know Max meant every ounce of his word.

Yorro: 167

Fortunate for him. The ghost would wave the older man to follow and started off towards the alleyway, past a few souls too out of it to wonder what was up or down, and around a corner. If the pirate was still following at this point the man would appear impressed and he’d pull open a rusted hatch to a cellar. It was just as dark and gloomy as when Yorro had entered, aside from the faint flickering of candles or lanterns below. 

The chosen ghost wouldn’t step down, but he would gesture with a bit of a bow to the pirate, “After you.” Should Max head down, he’d find some crates of the same ooze about the main room, a stench he was likely very familiar with, hence his recent quarry, and a door at the back made of used boards. 

“Happy browsing.” He’d hear from the hatch if he did venture down, the metal closing behind him as to keep out curious eyes and ears. 

Max: 304

With an annoyed expression from the lack of words coming out of this mouse of a man, Maxin followed after this quickly moving individual through the crowds. Sure there were still plenty of people out and about, he had to push through some. One guy almost got thrown out of the way. By now, Max’s tail was flicking about like an angry lion. They went up from the docks to a few rows of buildings and then the man disappeared. He paused in his tracks and scanned the area for the silhouette, finding it in a nearby alley. With a grumble, he turned after him, nearly deciding to just head back to the ship, and walked into the shadows. This was some sketch ass ordeal going on. 

Once he had caught up a door to a cellar was produced, and Max was casting some heavy side eyes into his direction. He debated whether or not to turn around- or reduce him to dust just for being irritating. Unfortunately he couldn’t do that to just anyone. So, he entered. And his nose immediately wrinkled when he did. It smelled like rot and fish guts. Maxin cautiously went down the stairs and flicked an ear when the final comment was made.

“Aye, fuckin’ trap my ass.” He mumbled beneath his breath. 

Max was about to make a hasty exit when his curiosity got the best of him. He let out a heavy sigh and noticed another doorway. It was just a thought that… maybe he should go that way. He walked over and tilted his ears forward while investigating the boxes from a distance. The substances looked questionable at best. He stopped in front of the door and wondered how he was supposed to open it.. it looked rickety.

“Hello?” Max called and lashed his tail.

Yorro: 231

For the sake of the ghost, it was fortunate he wasn’t sent at anyone through the air. The man very much enjoyed his feet solidly on the ground, currently bemused with the lack of questions of his guided patron. As for those lingering in the cellar the pair did not move, stationed at opposite ends of the entryway, invisible by the magic of the mage beyond the door. Maxin would find no responses from them, nor initially to his mumbling and final greeting. 

After a moment there would be a response, sounding tired, the door not opened, ‘It’s unlocked.” Yorro sat back in his chair, smothering his desire to lean with poor posture, his hands folded down behind the desk as if he held some weapon. He’d simply hold a small quill, an open jar of ink atop the table to let appearances be. His attention would be gathered again as he’d note this was not his ghosts and the one he’d left must’ve found a captain. At this he would rise, tossing the quill to splatter ink on the table as he stepped to stand in front of the desk. 

It was hoped that the pirate would use the door normally, though he listened for hints of irritation, knowing well how fickle in patience many pirates were. “There is no harm here, before you enter, keep this in mind, sir.” 

Max: 145

The door had.. somewhat of a handle, so Max hoisted it open and stepped inside. His naturally glided horns glistened in the candlelight and his once dull crimson eyes were now burning just as bright as the flickering. He was prepared for threats, but there was none. Instead there was a… desk, and a bunch of papers. And one man. One with dark hair like his and a business look about his face. Max lowered his brows and gave him a narrowed look. 

“Fine. What have I been lead to? That guy said somethin’ ‘bout weapons, not a hollow cove with guts and whatever else is creepin’ in them boxes o’yers.”

His radiant eyes cooled down a bit, and his posture relaxed. He could suplex that guy without a word if he needed to, fortunately for him it didn’t appear that would be an issue. 

Yorro: 268

Without any doubt he could do so, Yorro would not put up much of a fight as it wasn’t his strong suit. Not in his current state or any regular day for that matter. He’d those hidden men in case of such trouble, and he put reasonable faith in their ability to take hits in his stead. With a raised hand, harmless in meaning, palm up and somewhat stretched towards the glowering man he’d helpfully gesture the way he came. A second look would change what he saw.

“Indeed, not a cove of guts and rot, if the invitation has gathered your interest, we do have weapons. Have a look.” He’d not take the hazard of hovering within arms reach of the stranger without so much as introductions or familiarity. Nor did he intend to say much else regarding the crates of once goop, now clearly marked as weapons. Some were opened to reveal a plethora of fine blades, spears, knives, harpoons, guns even, neatly arranged with paper tags. Most of what a man could desire for an arm could be found, some in greater quantity. These crates were marked on the discarded lids by the same open maw he’d seen on the ghost, a red spattering of paint across the sturdy wood. 

“I represent the Mythwyr, we are selling these arms at a fair price, and by your ship, I’m sure you’re well stocked- yet it doesn’t hurt to browse. Something might catch your eye?” He’d tilt his head somewhat downward, his eyes still watching Max like a hidden beast, just in case.  A nod in invitation.  

Max: 214

With a suspicious look in his eyes and a strange feeling about this place, Maxin turned to see what he was gesturing towards and felt like he had just been walloped by his mind. Everything was different now… he caught the glint of metal laying on top of boxes and beautiful displays of swords on their respective racks. Max grinned. Of course this guy would be a damned Mage, but he enjoyed the power anyways. 

“Hah- I’m always browsin’.” With eyes a little wider, he coiled his tail in amusement and walked out into the opening of the larger room to begin looking through what he could bargain on. These were finely crafted weapons by the looks, yet as Chakiina taught him while shopping for his outfit- never trust anything by their looks. Cheaper material was always a step away from appearing to be of good quality. 

“The MythWyr, aye. Which city are ya out of?” Maxin small talked while he lifted a musket and turned it over in his hand and felt the solid engraved wood. He liked it. He replaced it and continued to browse through what items he had until he notice a unique sword with a jade handle, wrapped in crimson cloth.

“Tell me some o’these prices, if ya could.”

Yorro: 212

“Wonderful to hear.” He’d say with a musing voice, not the first time he’d heard people say they were browsing or looking, but for every five customers, three made purchases. Should this man not be interested there would be others and the family wasn’t short on any cash aside from what his elder brother hinted at. Not his doing. 

Yorro would offer a slight smile as Max walked between the items, watching for what caught his eyes, however he remained at a distance as the other browsed the weapons. “We are most places connected to the sea, easy transportation, but primarily host business in Faline.” More bodies, more coin, besides that, they’d have nothing to do with Namarast and their mage subjugations, it was easier to give any Order the slip with the winding streets of familiar territory. 

“Most range from 300 to 1,800 gold.” He was sure the pirate didn’t have that much, but one should never assume. With a look at the weapon, he’d step closer and flip the tag, it read 1,450g, to which he’d add, “What’s your budget?” For pirates he’d make his own selfish deals. After reading the price he’d step away again, folding his arms behind his back as he retreated out of reach. 

Max: 169

“Faline.” He echoed and ran his finger across a blade. “That will be our next stop.” 

Maxin could his tail at the thought. They were so close that he could almost taste it. He had been fighting for his life to get back to that damned city for the past couple of months and he would set afire if one more pit stop appeared on their list. 

“Budget? Ha, after today I might just own the seas. Price don’t scare me.”

Lifting the bizarre scimitar with the red wrapping, Max tossed it up into the air and caught it with ease. He spun it in his wrist a few times, making an infinity circle , and decided that he liked the way it felt.

“I’m takin’ this one, and those two muskets o’er there.” 

He fetched a heavy bag of gold coins and waited for the total prices on the items. He didn’t care a shred how much it all cost, he just needed some signature weapons. Chakiina had hers. 

Yorro: 225

The smuggler was glad he had stood back as Max started spinning the blade, not that he had concern of the man’s coordination, but he couldn’t vouch for his care of other’s safety and the blade was sharp. He’d watch for a moment before turning to assess the prices of the muskets, each at 250 a piece, “Fortune smiles upon you.” 

As for the total he’d remove the tags from the guns and respond, “Good choice, the lot runs 1,950 gold. I’ll give you ammunition as a first buyer bonus.” He’d had the mind to ask about why the man wanted to go to Faline, but more pirates haunting the place wasn’t a bad thing in his mind, and after making a note in a small ledger he kept on his person, he’d wrap the weapons in cloth, tying a red string around them. Max would notice they turned to appear more like rolls of netting. The scimitar remained as it was in his hand. 

“I happen to run a market off the south wharfs there, should you need a place to offload your monster parts. No guards, and if you need a reason to dock without having an issue with the port authorities?” Or just settle for a bit after a few days' journey.  He’d approach once more to exchange the illusioned weapons. 

Max: 212

The sheath was resting beneath the weapon that he had picked up, so he reached into the box and took that out, then strapped it neatly to his waist and replaced the blade into it’s new holder. Maxin’s eyes held a bit of interest as the man spoke of fair docking in Faline, the only dock he had been to was swarming with guards. Max tossed the gold coin bag to the man, they carried 2.5k each.

“Ya can keep the rest.” He made note to write that down in the books when he’d return to the ship later. Something else was now on his mind. His tail stilled and he took the weapons handed over to him, the transition of the packaging was amusing but he buried that expression down and simply watched them change.

“I figured with our ship only bein’ for huntin, it wouldn’t be too much of a problem but Aye… dockin’ somewhere safer would be good… however I just met ya.. Why don’t we take a walk. We can talk more ‘bout that arrangement o’yers… I have lots o’wares m’self I planned on gettin rid of monsters ‘nd all. I don’t think the Mar would appreciate illegal goods. Perhaps we could work out a sort’a trade?”

Yorro: 232

The bag would be hefted a few times as the man appraised the weight, he’d not bother to look if it was gold or not, but it certainly was coin, and if he ended up slighted, well, he’d find retribution for that later on. As Max adjusted the blade to his form, Yorro would conceal the coin on his own person, the large coat he wore helping to conceal whatever else he hid on his body. 

“Appreciated. Pleasure doing business.’ He’d add the formalities, before continuing, “Oh, of course not, what little they can control they will do so with force, but should you come to the docks I run, you won't have issue.” The officials wouldn’t play around in the Mythwyr shipping lanes nor near their warehouses, less they wanted someone to mysteriously disappear or be the next body floating in the water. No cause of theirs of course, just a rough neighborhood.

With a nod to the offer of a walk he’d start towards the cellar doors, on up the stairs and knocking at the rusted metal with a gloved hand, “Watch the cache.” The ghost who’d invited Max would give a silent nod, holding the door open for the two to exit. 

Once free to speak again, he would inquire, “Ah, do you now? You’ve my interest,.. sir?” He’d incline his head some as he hinted for the pirates name. 

Max: 202

“;Course.” Was his reply to the simple sentence, it was always a pleasure to Max to add something shiny to his various assortment of weapons and gold. Given the way he dressed, it was no surprise that anyone might find him picking through the markets. 

“Even with ships our size…?” He grinned wide and walked up the stairs and back out into the cooler air. The blistering temperatures have yet to settle in waves over the land. 

“Maxin, ya can call me Max.” He flicked his tail, content to have captured interest. 

“Max! There you are.” Percy, the man that had been left in charge of the ship, came pushing through a few bodies. He had obviously been spying on where Max had disappeared to, if he had come up to the pair so quickly.

“Captain- Chakiina wants to speak t’ya when ya have a moment.”

“Anythin important?” Maxin asked the younger man.

“No- just the haul, and uh- your plans, sir.”
“Aye. Actually Percy, can ya prepare them lions… I’d like to show our guest here a few things.”

“Aye sir.” Percy darted on ahead and back into the crowd.

“Sorry ‘bout that,I n’er caught yer name, by the way.”

Yorro: 181

“I can inform them you’re chartered to protect our wares, it’s none of their business who the rich deal with, we’ve permits as well, and a little bribery goes a long way with the tired and underpaid. “ Something his siblings could sort out as long as he said it was for the markets, not like they didn’t move thousands of gold worth on the daily, just a different shape of boat was the difference. He’d say as much with a straight face to any who questioned. 

At the approach of the deckhand, he’d listen without interruption, not thinking his place was really concealed, his magic doing what he needed. Any common folk could walk in and then swiftly walk out with the convincing reek and rot he’d laid as disguise. Though he would know once he was far enough away such a thing would dissipate, and as precaution he’d instructed the ghosts of what to do at his absence. Everything would be accounted for. 

Once the duo were done with conversation he’d introduce himself, “Yorro, lead the way if you would.” 

Max: 388

Lead the way he did. Through the small crowd, brushing off a few that approached to try and haggle for information on their catch out on the open waters. Back at the docks, Chakiina was waiting with her arms folded. Her hair was dark like Max’s and their skin tone nearly matched. A lot of their features were similar- she was a spitting image of her father. Luckily for her, with her equally golden horns, she would stand out in the crowd just the same. Her clothing was darker shades of red embroidered with strong golds and white vines. She didn’t say anything when they approached, but tagged along when Max walked Yorro towards the smaller Empress. She was built for hauling goods, and he wasn’t ready to show anyone what the belly of the Dread held inside of her.

Maxin walked up the ramp with the two behind, following past a crew side-eyeing the new man as they scrubbed the hell out of the deck. Blood splatters and stains still clung to her planks. The smell of fish guts here was accurate. Maxin opened the door that led to the crew’s quarters and to the lower levels, letting Yorro in first. Chakiina cast Max a ‘wtf are you doing’ look. Max gave her a reasurring pat and walked into the dimly lit area. He led them down the stairs, past the first level where the crew slept, and down to the second level. This was the cargo hold, and it was rather large. Everything was tightly tied down in its place. To the sides were large cages holding eye-less tiger looking beasts with manes of lions. They were either sleeping or pacing. Behind them, giant golden masks with large plume feathers. Spears made of rare materials, various colorful items you would expect pirates to have. But in the middle, tied down with the most ropes, was something strange.

They had cut up more than just one beast.

A seamonster’s freshly cleaned skull in perfect condition, next to ribs the size of a man.

“We have a number of exotics. Think ya would have much room in yer market for it?” He was referring to the skull, which well more than doubled max’s length. It was flat and full of spines.

“Guarantee it’s a One of it’s kind.”

Yorro: 319

Their similarity was hard to miss, and should it be the opposite of the pirate meeting the Mythwyr, or any of them on any other separate occasion, he’d likely put together that Yorro was representing his family and was not just some trusted peddler. He’d offer a slight bow to the woman regardless of if she paid mind or returned any looks.  None of these people seemed the type to shake hands or partake in any other greetings. 

Once on deck, Yorro would rub a cloth against his temple, seeming perhaps out of breath as he followed the group, not that it was a long trip but he’d his reasons. The smell itself didn’t bother him and it merely made his illusions more accurate, were they not already so. He’d normally not go into a hold first as that was an easy way to get trapped, much like Max thought of the cellar, but his hosts were so graciously letting them on their ships so some common sense was tossed away. 

The hold and crew quarters were what he would expect, but the eyeless creatures and the skull did steal his interest for a good time. What interesting beasts, as for the skull he’d admire the size of it, hazarding to touch the thing even if it was freshly cleaned. 

“There’s always someone looking for exotics, and bones, this could fetch a good price from alchemists. Collectors..” The spines would be avoided as he retracted his hand and turned to the large rib bones, those could be sold to someone for both building material, artisans for weaponry and handles, ground to powders. “How much are you seeking in compensation for the parts?” If he acted as a middleman, he’d take a cut and still find profits, but it was up to Max to set his asking price, Yorro might just pad it a bit with some zeros and tales.

Max: 307

Maxin’s tail coiled at the idea that they were building connections in Faline. That was exactly what they needed but obviously Chakiina was skeptical and had no idea what was going on. They could take off and head down to Yorro’s port, pray they weren’t about to be mugged or handed over to the navy, and go about their way… An image of someone flashed behind his eyes and he had to blink to clear it. He couldn’t be thinking about that right now. He had other matters to care for. 

“The Caecus lions are not exactly something we’ve seen on market before.” Chakiina started.

“They ain’t the easiest to catch…” Max added.

“And with the skull, we planned to set auction price to 1 mill, a little low if I may add, and see the bidders go wild.” There was a smile on the woman that spoke of excitement to see their hard work bring in its rightful earnings. 

“I have one specimen we caught I might sell outright…” she added. “But only because she’s still alive.” 

Maxin was a little surprised at Chakiina for giving up that information. That was supposed to be a secret between them and the crew, only. Lest anyone tried to raid their ship and storm them to see or steal it. 

“Right right, well now that you’ve given that one away.” Max started. “This man offered us an opportunity to dock and sell at their market in Faline.” Max flipped his tail.

“Oh- did he?” Chakiina tilted her head a bit and eyed him up and down. “That is why he is here then… alright. I would be willing to cut special deals with you personally of course,” Chakiina started. “But I’d have to see this place myself, first. Hope you understand how little I have come to trust people.”

Yorro: 239

If the Pirate was intent on going there without planning, it would be a bit more bribery on Yorros’ part to get them into port, but not too inconvenient in the scheme of things. Besides, they had valuable goods to put on sale and he’d make considerable profits with such rare catches.

“No, I can confirm that, what are you asking for?” Live rare creatures were often picked up by mages or nobility, and if they had the price tag of the bones alone, no commoners would see sights of these goods. 

The pricing was also lower than Yorro would start the sales, he’d add about 500,000 more for the starting bid, and even with the increase, his family’s name being the host of said auction would see it moving swiftly into another’s hand. 

Chakiina’s slip had him turning from his appraisal to look her way, “I would love to see this creature should you find faith in my word once you’ve docked in Faline. “ To Chakinna he would add, “Not at all, trust is earned.” 

With that he would pull a thick and dark colored card from his pocket, perhaps engraved metal by the looks of it, and would hold his arm out to the pair, with a splay of his fingers he would show two cards. “Keep these on you at the docks.” Both had the maw mark and some manner of signature in matching color. 

Max: 252

“20.” Chakiina replied. “Depending on who’s eyes we catch.”

Maxin wagged his tail with content like some sort of dog, that was a good amount, well enough for a new ship or two… maybe three. He was about ready to set the Empress up in flames. And he’s only had her for two weeks now.

“Of course,” Maxin replied. “You can be Among the first to see it, we were lucky enough to scrape up some young before they took off.”

When the card was presented the pair exchanged a glance and stepped forward and took a card each.

“Aye.”

Max turned his over and looked at the signature before he tucked it safely in a pocket somewhere in his jacket. 

“… did you buy that-“ Chakiina’s eyes drifted to Maxin’s sword. “Nevermind I rather do not want to know.” She sighed. 

“Anyways. We will be remaining here at the port for perhaps three days before we take off to Faline, unless Maxin ropes us into another one of his escapades. Should you have any questions for us, Sir, you know where to find us.” The woman flashed a grin then followed Max to escort Yorro back through the cargo hold and to the deck where various men were still mending the ropes and cleaning, though it already looked remarkably better than when they had pulled in to dock. Max was actually impressed with his crew, they pulled their weight.

Perhaps they knew what would happen to them if they did not. 

Yorro: 235

The offered card had a fanciful script writing that signed “Mythwyr” should it not have been apparent prior. Nothing else was on the thing, the back blank. The provider of said cards not explaining anything else on them aside from keeping them on their person. They seemed like a smart lot who could figure out when to show the cards, if needed, and he’d hoped it wouldn’t be needed. 

There would be a brief consideration of the sword which Max did indeed buy, but that too didn’t need comment and he’d wait until he was lead out of the hull. Not wanting to be perceived as a snoop by any means. “Ah, I see.” He’d intended to stay about a week just for avoidance sake, but bringing in some profits might lessen the disdain his family had for him currently, rare creatures to top it. Chakiina would get a simple nod to him knowing where to find them, even if they moved the ship some, the ports were only so large and the ship was identifiable. 

“If you need of me I’m often not far from the docks, but I intend to be at a few events tomorrow for reputation's sake.” Some dour meetings of rich folks, lies, lots of food, dancing and too loud laughing. With that he’d offer a slight bow to both Max and Chakiina, “I will be on my way then.” 

Max: 131

He exchanged another look with Chakiina and began to lead their guest off the ship. It wasn’t the longest walk but there were many busy bodies stop to watch out for as they moved around to do their job. None of them paid the pair any attention save for Max when he came through. A tilt of the crown or a subtle, “captain.”

“Pleasure to be makin’ acquaintance with ya.. but say- Ya have any use for a ship?” Maxin asked Yorro and began to keep his voice low. Chakiina must have remained below deck to look over the lions. His crimson eyes fixed on the guy that he walked beside. 

“She halls good cargo, fast, mans about 50 guns.” Maxin waved his tail in thought.

“Ya can think on that…”

Yorro: 148

"Much like I can find opportunities in goods to make coin, I can find use in a fine ship. I'm not a sailor myself, but we can refit it and use it for transport." Having it armed and with a crew who knew how to fight, likely also mages, would help keep the cargo safe and with a ship this size he could move a lot more than a small cellar of goods. He could make his own transport lines and undermine his family at the same time, perhaps have a phantom ship to steal what they peddled from them and it not be tied to him. He'd have to think on how to get the funds to give the ship a fresh coat of paint, but that wouldn't be too hard if he was already pinned for missing funds. Maybe Elene would pitch in for his plotting. 

Max: 338

After their brief discussion regarding the potential sales at an extremely low cost of The Empress, Maxin had spent the rest of his day preparing the maps for their next adventure. It was relatively boring work but necessary. They went out drinking that night, and Maxin was in Chakiina’s cabin snoozing still when the sun hit his face. His daughter was passed out drunk on the floor still and one of the quarter masters slept along the wiindow behind him. They had stayed up late exchanging stories and plotting their future of wealth. With a groan, Maxin stood up from the desk and stretched out his sore back. He needed to visit the medic again. Quietly he left the cabin and looked out across the deck. Even the night shift guard had fallen asleep. 

With a low groan Maxin walked out across the ship and down the wavy ramp to the docks. There was a crowd of people loading up their ships and getting ready to take off for the morning into the open waters. Others were still quiet. The Empress was sitting empty with few people on board at the time being for he was sure most of them were in the inns spread out across the town. 

The streets were relatively quiet still in the early morning, so Maxin went to a tavern and had breakfast. When he was done he headed out and began to walk around and explore the colorful areas. It ate up his morning until the sun began to rise center sky. There’s were interesting shops he stopped at, one had mostly jewelry. 

In the shop, Max looked over everything until he came across a little golden pendant dangling on a tigers-eye necklace. He lifted it up and looked over the small golden owl figure when the shop keeper came over and nervously told him the price. Maxin bought it without second thought and stuffed the small box into his jacket pocket. Then he left, and headed aimlessly down the streets again.

Yorro: 407

 Yorro had departed Max's company the day prior, checking on the state of moving goods from one stash to another, and then heading up towards the nicer parts of town. He'd found a nice inn that lacked the usual grungy bar, where his 'belongings' were delivered. Merely a pack containing some finer wear for the event tomorrow, and a room with a bath where he could clean off the dock grime. He'd spend the evening secluded there, awaking an hour before dawn to prepare for a very draining day of listening to the blabber of bearers of gold lined pockets. Their business ventures, oppression of the lower classes, mockery of rivals, all of which was mostly useless information that only served to have the time crawl ever later into the day. 

When Yorro did arrive, walking instead of taking an ostentatious cart, he was signed in by the servants as a visiting guest and off he went to mingle with the crowds and fight back a ever encroaching headache. The most he could make of the day was a few partial deals and it would have been entirely wasted had he not caught ear of a late arrival to the party. Some noble man, no more than twenty, spouting off his wealth and bantering about his shiny new ship. Truly the arrogant bastard, the man had arrived at the party on said ship and Yorro had to lean back to take in the view. That pirate wanted a new ship. This was a new ship… it had three decks, more cannons than the Empress, and a fancy ram at the prow. 

With a slight friendly smile he would slink closer to the young man and pat him jovially on the shoulder, 'What a splendid ship!' The young man would laugh in agreement to the various praises and compliments, unaware of the fresh plot in the merchant sons' head. The noble would be too busy to know what happened. Shouldering past a few tightly bustled gossips he'd head around the side.of the building into the gardens, seeking out his ghost. At his presence he'd hear the man to his side, concealed behind some shrubs. "Go find the Captain, same as yesterday, tell him I've got a gift." 

The ghost would not respond but he could hear them depart, and then when it was silent he'd pick a small flower from the shrub and return to the party.

Max: 227

It wasn’t long of traveling down the street before bodies began to fill in and create a small crowd of all classes exploring the shops and unique items in the market. Percy and a few other members of the crew had found him and they grouped up for a stroll and Max led them down to a less populated area full of colorful articles of cloth and flags everywhere. Flowers lined the street and one of the men nudged him.

“Thinkin’ this path leads to the shrines.”

“Shrines….” Maxin echoed.

“Aye, all sorts of Gods here but with the colors I’m thinkin the main three are gonna be put up somewhere nice.”

“I see.” Maxin mumbled. “Anywhere we need to be?” His eyes traveled to Perc who shrugged his shoulders in response.

“Not that I’m aware of.”

Maxin let out a little sigh and retraced his steps while some of the crew talked about the fantastic dancers they slept with the night before. One of them made his skin crawl, it was a bit disturbing the detail thet the man went into.

“Captain—- who’s that?” Another member nudged him and that action drew his attention to someone that seemed to be approaching him. He looked a bit familiar. Maxin stopped walking and let the man approach them.

“Aye, I know you-“ He started. “One of Yorrow’s guys.”

Yorro: 219

The man who approached was the same as yesterday, though a bit finer dressed than prior, he wore a grayish brown scarf over his head, with the fringes of early graying hair, cold eyes and a colder expression as he made a stiff nod in acknowledgement of his presence. 

"Yeah, that'd be me.. got something you might like, requires a bit of work, but we've done most of it. I suggest you hurry if you're interested." He'd hold back on sharing his observation of the ship, having followed his employer around the gala most of the day. He knew well enough what business Yorro brought and having his interest in pirates, he knew that ship was the target.

The ghost would look between the crew Max had, not particularly sizing them up, but familiarizing himself for both good and bad outcomes. At the end of the day he didn't seem to trust anyone, except for perhaps Yorro.

Without waiting for their word he would swiftly turn about and start up the road past the stalls, people, and clutter, like he was water flowing through a river, not a single thing coming in contact with his form. He'd be gone just as quickly as he approached if the group waited long, but there was a chance he'd wait further ahead.

Max: 265

The whole seven men he had with him looked rather suspicious of the strange man dressed in finer garb coming down to join them. They stiffened up and got ready for a fight, but Maxin didn’t appear to be gearing up for one. 

“…Yorro..?” Another questioned but returned to silence when he was given a look. He did not like where this was going at all. There was no information given, nothing was explained, he just randomly showed up… given the riches they had received yesterday his guard was especially up.

“Could be a trap…” Percy pointed out.

“Then I’ll kill ‘em…Dunno, but let’s follow…” Maxin replied. The rest of the crew seemed to like that answer because they were suddenly buzzing with a new excitement, the hope for bloodshed. 

Max’s pack of hounds went up the street after the figure and began to run through several scenarios and situations they could be walking into… he could obliterate a number of men before he came to trouble and his little pack was more than capable of defending themselves. Max’s eyes followed this stranger, taking note that they were probably a mage. Something he wasn’t the most fond of anymore. Or at least it was a heavy possibility… maybe he was just giving off creepy vibes. 

Whatever the reason, the group went without much of a word through the crowd and on towards wherever they were heading. When they caught up with the guy, Maxin spoke to him in a low irritated voice.

“What are we walkin’ into… ‘an what sort of work are we talkin.”

Yorro: 132

By the time the group of distrustful pirates caught up they were well in view of the massive ship hosted by the noble, a large manor not far off across an expansive perfectly green lawn. The ghost had paused at the edge of the tree line that blocked the road from the manor residents' view. He'd then gesture silently to the ship, as if holding it up like a present.

"You mentioned to Yorro you were wanting a ship, that's a ship, you just need to crew it out. I wouldn't wait long as you've got a window before the magic stops." He wasn't going to explain much else if asked, unless it seemed important, the man instead eying the blood hungry hounds that followed the Captain.

"Or did he judge wrongly?" 

Max: 239

The road they had followed to meet up with this Ghost lead them to a hill that overlooked a good portion of the area. The sea in the distance but before it, large buildings of obviously richer folk. Trees, shrubs, green things- the whole shabang. Maxin eyed up the marble buildings close by and then shifted his gaze back to the stranger that lead him here. Some of the men were looking a little confused.

Then the man motioned to a massive vessel, around the size of Chakiina’s, sitting there at a well guarded port. It was well decorated and looked like something a noble or navy would own. Bright white sails and a lot of light colored and gold planks. Maxin returned his eyes to the man and nearly laughed.

“The hell ya talkin about— ya think we’re gonna be stealin’ that?” 

Maxin heard Percy and a few men laugh.

“That giant ass ship, with my seven men? We need several Hundred…”

Looking back at this stranger, he seemed very serious. Maxin’s expression shifted to anger and he gave him a cold look.

“What kinda magic…?” He paused and thought for a moment- then remembered the room from last night he had seen.

“Before I do somethin’ real stupid, that Yorro guy is comin’ with an’ disguisin’ the ship while it’s in this port… until we get our shit and get out, got it? I’ll fetch the crews.”

Yorro: 275
The ghost seemed unfazed by the anger of the man, he’d simply smile slightly. If the Captain wanted a new ship, or that one, he was sure they’d pull the manpower. Yorro could also fool the original crew for a time, but he imagined that his boss was putting a deal of effort into the disguise portion of the stealing. Of course if the pirates didn’t take it, he’d just return to Yorro and his presence would say they weren’t interested.

“We can make things work if you bring the men. It’s a fine vessel and with some strings pulled it can be yours.”

He would then gesture to the party causing a deal  of distraction for any nobles and finer folk, Yorro wouldn't be visible from the distance, but he was lingering somewhere near the edges of the party, watching and waiting. It would have to be planned and timed for when he casted, less the illusion break when they were still well into the bay, tipping off any port guards or the owner. Though he could also nab the man after some time talking to him. The noble was naive and vain and he was sure a little nudging to show him the fancy ship would get him aboard and in the cabin.

“I’ll be waiting.” Ghost responded before stepping off the road to lean against a tree and light a cigarette. His time for waiting would be quite a few hours, as the party planned to end well into the evening with drinks and revelry before the guests were carted off to their respective manors, ships, and lodging by hoards of servants.

Max: 407

“Fine, fine… I’ll wait here. Percy.” He looked over to the group.

“Yessir.”

“Stay here.”

“… oh-“

“And you,” Max pointed at some random dude from his daughter’s crew he didn’t know. Max told him some tavern and Inn names to go hunt down crew to make sure they didn’t miss the bell.

“You-“ He pointed to another guy. “Go ring the Dread’s bell to summon the crew. We’re gonna fit everyone on the Empress. Might be a squeeze, but Gettem on there.”

“And then you-“ Maxin pointed at one of his members. “Jus… Jaurice, go get me a damn horse.” 

“Yessir.”

“I ain’t runnin’ back ‘nd forth.”

The group split up save for Max and Percy, who both stood there a little awkwardly. Max’s eyes again went to the illusioned ship, wondering how the hell they would make this work.

“So- what’s the plan Captain-.”

“We’re gonna steal a ship, Percy.”

“Y-yes…. I get that…”

“What else is there to get then.”

“I just… thought maybe there’d be more-“

“Trust the process.”

“You don’t have a plan do you…?” Percy said with a blink.

“Get on the boat, stab everyone, leave with the boat. Head back to our docks, get my shit, throw the empress at Yorro, head to Faline.”

“…That was Rysnik’s-“

Maxin let out a heavy sigh.

“I don’t give two shits who’s ship it belonged to. That one is bigger.” 

His crimson eyes turned to the ghost of a man.

“I assume you’ll be waitin’ here.”

The sound of hooves approached and one of the men led a white horse stolen from the nobles pens.

“Here ya are sir-“ He panted.

Maxin had ridden a horse once in his life.. when he was twelve. But honestly, how difficult could it be?

The horse was bare, only a halter bridle on its face, it must’ve been a carriage animal given its taller statue. Perfect for Maxin. He jumped up, threw his legs over, and held on tight while the animal got a little jumpy. Perhaps it wasn’t used to being ridden.

“Alright, stay here, don’t cause trouble…”

Maxin kicked the horse in the ribs and away he went, a full gallop down the road and off to the city where he could get the quickest to the docks.

Percy, stood there awkwardly with the other three men… he stuck his hands in his pants and turned to the ghost.

“So…. Uh, you like music?”

Yorro: 375

Ghost watched the man bark out orders, not bothering to hide the smirk on his lips between puffs of smoke from the cigarette that was quickly diminishing. How this day ended up being the most entertaining was beyond him, but he suspected he’d owe a wry and vague ‘thanks’ to his boss later. The hooded man would let them banter back and forth while he’d turned slightly to eye the ship. It was sitting so nice and pretty right in the open, and while there were guards it wasn’t the lot he’d suspect would be trouble with a  crafty bastard like Yorro making requests. That man was a Mythwyr and he knew how to twist his words to captivate a crowd, one sole man wouldn’t be hard.

At the clatter of hooves he’d finally turn back to consider the white stolen horse and Max’s question. That act alone could also cause a pretty distraction, leading the guards away from the docks. “See ya in a bit.” He’d muse as an answer to Max, watching as he mounted and rode off at full gallop. Then the willowy man would look at the trio left.

“Mm, depends. What sort?” He’d toss his burned out cigarette to the ground, stomping it out.

If the pirates played their cards right, they could sneak up the dock side of the manor, perhaps pretending to be crew for the ship, or just using their numbers to swiftly take out any stragglers. Ghost suspected he could also creep ahead to work his own magic, but it was dreadful enough with the drawbacks. Maybe Yorro would convince the rich bastard landside to send his men off to party, there were plenty of guards spackled around like lost ants anyways.any stragglers sneaking up could be dealt with by the blood-thirsty pack that had been present.

“I did say I'd stick about for a tick, but I do gotta go give my boss a heads up. You all sit pretty.” The man would blow some sort of exaggerated farewell kiss their way and step back into the brush. The trio could follow if they’d wanted, but it had been made apparent by his prior words that he’d be waiting. A little side trip aside. 

Max: 343

The trip back was a bit of an adventure. Besides the horse slipping twice on the cobblestone path, people crowded the streets and made passage difficult. He nearly trampled a handful of individuals as he charged toward the dock, a bad feeling sitting in his gut. He didn’t like the setup of this situation. A bit of a damn warning would’ve been nice. That ship was massive, there was no way they’d be getting it out unseen. Guess they would just have to pray.

Maxin burst through a crowd on the white steed and flowers flew up everywhere, he jumped a pile of crates and nearly fell off, then dashed the horse right down to the docks. The appearance of the man and animal was quite chaotic. People stared as it trotted over to the massive dread.

“Fetch Chakiina.”

When they returned, Chakiina rode on the back with an angry expression. They had been speaking to one another on the way, plotting and getting his tail chewed for listening to a stranger. She was still tearing into him for the whole situation but Maxin claimed innocence and spotted the small group standing around chatting.

As soon as they returned they received small moss and Maxin jumped down from the horse followed by his daughter. She walked a little funny for a moment with a scowl.

“Where’s this damn ship-“ They pointed and she gawked for a second before turning back to Max.

“How-“

“Shielded by an illusion.” Maxin replied simply. “Just get the men, board it, use the current people on it as bait, and sail away. We take the guy casting whatever the hell spell that is and the ship remains disguised.”

“You’re insane if you think we’re pulling this off.”

“We did with the sea beasts.”

Chakiina gave him an empty stare then released a sigh.

“Fine… let’s get the men… which ship are we bringing over?”

“The Empress is less suspicious… say where’s that guy-“

They shrugged.

“Fine… well, let’s get going then..” and pray they weren’t getting set up.

Yorro: 236

While Max was off gathering his crew and daughter the ghost made a short time of sneaking back into the manor to hunt down Yorro. Thanks to his finer garbs he could blend rather easily with the nobles despite being a child of poverty. He made sure to brush off any leaves as he stepped through the large front doors, making his way towards the back gardens. Yorro was there, playing his game of test the waters with the noble, keeping the man plenty distracted. With a purposely placed foot he snapped a twig, drawing the Mythwyrs' attention, that's all he needed before he turned about and started his sprint back to the pirates.

By the time Max had returned the ghost had not seemed to be with the group, but he'd step out from some bushes and brambles a moment after his arrival. 

"Yorro has the noble distracted, I can lead you down the docks. Don't talk to anyone."

He made a point of turning his cold eyes to the crew, not giving them an order but more gauging their competency for the task ahead. At least they had numbers.

"You'll have about one hour before he passes out, should have the noble you can punt into the ocean once we are out." With that he'd wait a few moments for their responses, planning to head off for the next part of the ship theft.

Max: 201

“They’re swinging around the Empress and loading her up as we speak.” Chakiina said while they gave one another a nod of agreement. Max swished his tail nervously and followed after this man with everyone else in tow. The road down to the docks was very smooth and well paved for the area was a bit more extravagant. Maxin and Chakiina were exchanging a few words under their breath as they walked.

“How are six of us going to take on an entire crew?” She hissed

“There’s not an entire crew but there are just enough men to cause a problem… just don’t get stabbed or shot.”

“Are we walking right into a trap?”

“Almost sounds like it.” Max sighed. “I offered the Empress to this guy though… in exchange for the help to get this ship apparently.”

“You—-“ Chakiina froze for a second and stared at him.

“Max… that is my ship…”

“Well then start hoping this mission fails.”

“If they don’t stab you, I will.”

They reached the massive ship and walked up the plank as if nothing was out of the picture here. Max eyed up the men that turned and stared at them. Well, this was awkward.

Yorro: 243

The pirates found out easily enough that their lack of talking and just walking around like they belonged got them right where Ghost was leading without anything more than looks. Seemed the crew and whatnot about the area though they belonged and their guide certainly walked around like he did. That or the nobles and crew were too drunk to notice the assorted faces of the definitely not invited members of the party. 

Once on the ship, Ghost  offered a very half-assed wave  to whoever looked to be in charge while docked, heading for the Captain's Quarters with a, "Afternoon boys," and his usually fast walk.

He'd knock on the door twice sharply before heading in with little other warning. As it seemed his normal the man didn't acknowledge any looks of confusion at him.

A few of the crew could be heard muttering amongst each other as soon as Ghost was out of view.

"Are they hired by Hughes?"

"Don't look like show girls.. well maybe that one." There would be some furtive looks at Chakiina, mostly for her being the probably only woman on board. 

"I don't get paid enough for this shit.." 

Should Chakiina and Max want to follow, the door was clearly unlocked and unguarded and the crew would continue their comments, getting no answers for now.. 

As for the rest of his conversation it sounded very one sided and muffled.

"Heya, found the new crew, how's it going?" 

Max 301

They made it to the deck and were greeted with strange looks and even stranger comments. Chakiina cast a glare towards whoever had made a remark with the showgirls.

“That one is being chummed.” She growled. 

“Oh relax.” Maxin laughed and their four other crew members followed them up to the Captain’s Quarters.

“Your buddy here sure is a man of words.”

“You mean a man lacking.” Max sighed. “I think he assumes that I can read his mind.” 

They approached the cabin and Chakiina glared at the four remaining men.

“You shits stay outside the door.” Chakiina grumbled. “I don’t want anyone barging in.”

Maxin patted Percy’s shoulder and entered the the door surrounded by finely crafted wood work. Inside the walls were crimson and lined with brilliant gold detailing, it was massive with a large table in the center where Yorro and the Noble were seated. Ghost standing with them. Only Chakiina and Maxin had entered. Max let out a low whistle as he looked at painting on the ceiling.

“Now this is fancier than your ship.” He commented.

“…. It is, actually.”

He approached and tipped his head in a greeting.

“Good to see you, Yorro… and this must be the, Captain… or at least the owner of this vessel?” He looked down at the seated man.

Maxin probably looked to play the part of importance with his black jacket decorated in golden embroidery. The only thing that would give him away to piracy was the golden buckle on his belt in the shape of a skull and his rather intimidating appearance. He stretched out a hand to let the man shake it.

“My name is Maxin, and this is my daughter Chakiina. We were wondering what sort of offer you would like to put on this ship.”

Chakiina’s eyes bore into the back of his head, but he had his plan.

Yorro. 279

Both the noble and Yorro seems various states of drunk, having a few bottles on the table, though Yorro was clearly more coherent than the noble. At Max's entry the man didn't even look away from Yorro sitting across from him, his back to the door, laughing about something like it was the funniest comment ever. The merchant was clearly feigning interest. Ghost was standing to the left of the table, inspecting the glasses like he could tell if they were genuine finery or counterfeit, though he'd have nothing to say and didn't look over to the pair even as they spoke. 

Yorro would take a drink of the alcohol before gesturing behind the noble. "Ah, our friends have arrived.~" Seemed he had to be obviously pointing them out, and he'd have a bit of a smile as the noble turned around to eye the newcomers. At first Hughes seemed to ponder who they were, some alarm trying to claw itself out of his drunken stupor, Max's question of what offers he wanted for his ship were met with scrutiny bordering on offense.  

"Pardon- this vessel isn't for sale." The man would pause in thought for a moment  before suddenly pointing at Max and letting out a laugh, his expression lightening,"Ah, you must be joking, you couldn't afford it!"

Yorro would make a point of pouring more of the bottle into his and the man's cup, "Oh, don't be so vain, you don't own the world's gold." He'd push the cup closer and the man would scoop it up and start on one too many more. 

At that Yorro would look to Max and Chakiina, "You hardly have to work to pull the wool." The noble would laugh, thinking it was a praise for his actions.

Max: 284

“Ouch.” Maxin replied. “Guess he doesn’t know the woman that owns the other half of the world’s gold…. But, You’re right we don’t need this ship.” He leaned back from the man. Maxing cracked his neck, wound back his arm, and slammed his fist into the side of the Noble’s head. He slumped and fell to the floor with a dull thud.

“I want it.”

Chakiina sighed and walked over to where the alcohol was sitting. She poured herself and Max a glass, then took the now open seat and sat in front of Yorro.

“One of our ships will be here very soon… so tell me, how are we getting this thing out of here without being seen?”

Percy and the crew looked behind each other at the door for a moment when they heard a loud burst of laughter.

“Must be havin’ a good time in there.” One of the men commented.

“Yup…”

They looked over at the crew members as one of them approached.

“Who the hell are you guys-“

Percy, a taller man with longer brunet hair approached him and did a little dance with his shoulders.

“We are the Dread’s crew. The Captain’s just made bank off of selling a sea monster and I’m assuming-“ he paused off a dramatic effect. “They are placing an offer on this ship… it is a war ship, and here this man has it decorated like his personal cruiser… such a shame.” He sighed. “Or maybe they will add it to their collection—- oh look, there comes one of our ships now!” Percy looked out starboard towards a smaller vessel packed with darkly dressed men. The ship had black sails and golden planks.

Yorro: 168

With the noble out of the picture for now, Yorro would lean back and genuinely seem relieved, "Quite the ship ain't it.. I was planning on you just sailing out, but if you're bringing one of yours.." he'd contemplate requesting they fire upon the dreadful party, but there were big names there and that would be excessive considering how reckless this was. 

"I'm assuming most are done with this man's antics, perhaps they'll think it part of his "play Captain" show.. Were you expecting a fight?" Yorro would nod off towards open waters, and Ghost approached the Cabin door to look outside. He's note Max's crew and turn back to face the trio.

The few crew outside would see the approaching black sailed ship and most would rightfully look concerned. We're pirates going to attack them this close to port? Though as it was, it was only their ship which wasn't crewed to man cannons or sail, and a near fully crewed one. Where was their Captain now?

Max: 148

“Just sailing out requires a few several hundred men…” Chakiina put in her ten cents. “Which is what are coming right as we speak.”

They began to board the ship from charging off over the docks in the ship that was brought in. Chakiina got up and left to begin barking orders to get everyone in their stations.

“Well let’s see… we have to take this ship over to the other port, divvy out the men so that both our vessels are properly manned, transfer the supplies from the Empress to this beast- and then we can turn to open waters.” Maxin sighed as he pulled the Noble out of the chair.

“It’s a lot of work but we can get it done.”

Outside there was a small amount of commotion as the other crew were taken into their custody. 

“So- let’s get on with it, shall we?”

Yorro: 197

"The nobles might also be too frightened to act if you bring in your other ship, yet at the same time, if there is no conflict they will buy in more to it not being a threat. I'll keep it looking like this ship is in port, should last a bit, once you're ready.." he would rise from the chair he was seated in, swaying a bit from both drink and prior magic use. Should have drank in moderation, yet that noble man was persisting in filling his cups before they were empty. 

To the mention of work he would make a noise of agreement, "I have some men headed this way and you can request his assistance." He pointed to the Ghost who still stood by the door. The man looked his usual half interested and would not even acknowledge being volunteered for labor. He just seemed to be waiting to be told to do something.

Yorro would also debate approaching the door to go outside, but the table was a nice thing to lean against in the meantime. He was curious where Max intended to drop Hughes after hefting the unconscious man from the chair.

Max: 216

The door opened and Perc strutted in with a salute, then he did a very fabulous bow towards Maxin.

“AH- look at this BEAST! Beautiful, right up my alley, sir! She is manned and ready to head back to the docks where we left the Dread… The Empress will be in tow.”

“Let’s get the hell out of here then.” Maxin growled, and he felt something pass through him.

A little shiver was sent through his body as his ghostly ex drifted across the room aimlessly. Shit. Maxin’s eyes traveled to the mildly drunk man. He narrowed his eyelids and let out a short sigh.

“Are you uhhhh… gonna be okay-.” Maxin swished his tail and heard Chakiina screeching out orders to lift the anchor, the Ghost man must have left to join in the crew.

The vessel began to slowly creep away from the dock, so Maxin gave the mad a nod and walked out to join the crew in running their asses off double time to make up for the men that they lacked. Chakiina was laughing like a maniac, obviously in disbelief at what they had just pulled off. 

When they returned to the docks, Maxin went back into the Cabin’s quarters to check on Yorro, who he didn’t think had even left.

Yorro: 215

The quarter masters words fell on dead ears as he exclaimed his praises about the ship, Yorro watching as Ghost slipped out the door in Percy's wake and vaguely hearing Max ask about if he was fine. He'd confidently say "Yes." However not long after Max departed to join the cacophony of yelling outside he'd slump back into the chair. It would be a long trip to wherever, he just hoped they heeded Ghosts warning. 

Ghost would.have made himself busy doing whatever task prompted of him, though at some point the man would make to his name and vanish from the decks. Maybe he got tired of being yelled at, or maybe it was any chatter he hated. 

The ships would make it to their destination without so much as a guide boat, no authorities even coming over to ask what their reason for dock was. Perks of a nice and very expensive new ship. No one wanted to step on any toes it seemed. Thus the pirates could swap crew and supplies without issue. 

As for Yorro he'd eventually passed out and ended up on the floor, maybe looking much like a corpse with some rather fresh gashes across his eye, brow, and temple. He would be taking a nap for a bit. 

Max: 247

The door swung open to reveal a little… unsettling scene.

“…Oh.” Maxin shut the door when he saw the man passed out on the floor looking a bit worse for wear. Was he even alive? He wasn’t sure, so he went down below the deck by taking the stairs tabs began to search through the chaos for a familiar face.

“Maxin!” A woman close to his age exclaimed. “Well, look at this place, I might actually have my own room here!”

“I’d hoped so… should have a couple of rooms by the size of this thing.” He replied while looking around.

“So, what’s going on? Someone get stabbed?” 

“Uhhh not sure but there’s a guy on the floor in the Captain’s quarters… a good guy, he might be dead but I’m not sure.”

She stared at him for a moment before turning and letting Max clear a path through the crowd. Everyone was loading up the ship now that they were docked. When he returned to the quarters and swung the door open for Matilda, she let out a little gasp and shook her head.

“Wait- you never checked if he was dead…?”

“Aye. Just came straight to ya.”

“Oh boy… he doesn’t look too great… well, help me get him to the bed there and let’s get him checked over shall we? Hopefully he’s just had a bit… to much to drink.” She waved her hand when she smelled the stench of alcohol in the room.

Yorro: 167

The merchant was not dead, thankfully, and while he had been drinking that was not the cause of his current state, moreso his various blunt  injuries and overuse of magic. The cost he suffered draining his energy and he'd been using magic far too much and in large quantity. Normally Yorro would be more inclined to forgo or limit his magic strictly, yet now he needed allies and getting a ship for a pirate could come in handy in the future. 

At being moved he would grumble something which was entirely unintelligible and would otherwise be unconscious unless doused in water or shook violently. If undisturbed, he'd at least be conscious in a few hours at most. 

Ghost would eventually appear in the cabin to give his two cents, the door not even making a click as it closed. 

"Told ya one hour, that's a lot of magic for someone running on fumes." The alcohol surely didn't help, aside from masking Yorro's sorrows of issues at home.

Max: 326

Max’s ear twitched back when the Ghost of a man spoke, he didn’t realize he had entered the room.

“Ohh- I know how to fix him up but…” she let out a heavy sigh in a weary voice. “Alas all of my things are still on the other ship.. or they’re currently being transferred. Not sure which state they’re in.”

“Well… let me find them for you.”

Maxin ducked out of the room and left the elder woman with the Ghost and Yorro. She couldn’t sit still even if she wanted to- so she went digging through the room until she found some fancy handkerchief and a basin of drawn water. 

“This poor man.” She mumbled and began to dab his face. 

It took a little while of silence and Matilda not addressing the stranger in the room before Max returned with a large bag of items. The man very gently laid it on the floor.

“Potion bottles.” He said. 

She looked delighted and began to dig through everything until she uncovered what she needed. A few different vials were brought to Yorro, for his face first of course, it would sting like hell when she put it on but with a wipe of the rag—- he was mostly healed save for a few yellowing spots from the bruises.

After she backed off from his sputtering, Matilda dug around again until she found something completely foul.

“This is a restorative medicine.” She grabbed Yorro’s face. “Drink it.” And carefully poured it into his mouth. Despite the funky aftertaste and gel-like substance, as soon as it touched his lips it should already began to spread the effect of returning energy.

“That should do the trick. He might want to lie down for a while and sober up however… now if you’d excuse me, I’m going to begin organizing.”

Matilda lifted the heavy back as if it was nothing, swung it over her shoulder, and away she went.

Yorro: 292

Matilda never had to worry of any comments or acknowledgement from the ghost either. The man would just stand across the room, not really moving, but definitely watching her closely. If she did look his way he watched her hands primarily. She was free to go about her work.

Yorro had awoken during her wiping blood off his face, and seemed to at least be grateful for the alcohol dulling his senses, yet it wasn’t without grimaces and groans when she pressed too hard. The potion tasted atrocious and the texture had him nearly gagging but the effect was potent, he could feel some of his energy returning. He’d drink it despite his want to not. Horrid magic slime.

The woman would be watched depart and whether Max was there or not Yorro had turned his attention across the room to stare at Ghost. Those two could practically communicate without speaking and after a moment of silence the shadow man would let out a very amused laugh. “Know your limits, hmm?!”

“Shut up.” Yorro would groan, clearly unamused, and then touch his face, feeling the bruises. He didn't have the energy to mask his appearance, feeling the scars across his cheek and brow. If it was one of the things he  hated, it was very high on the list, permanent reminders of his foul family. He could burn their images left and right, yet these would never fade.

“When are we departing?” Ghost would ask towards Max, unless the man planned to kick them both off the ship they helped pilfer. A fair gamble in the world these days, and Ghost could take no offense if that was the result of their efforts. He’d just file it away for another day’s reflection.

Max: 168

“Ah- we.” Maxin replied with a look of amusement. “Well, the Dread will be sendin’ off first here, once everything is loaded to this new ship, ya more than welcome to be headin’ to Faline with us. Otherwise your ship will be available- if ya can find the manpower for it, to take her wherever is needed.”

He beckoned to the Empress to the other side of the dock from them. Chakiina hadn’t said a damned word since they had gotten this new beast.

His eyes turned to Yorro and gazed over the injuries this man sustained. He got into one hell of a fight with someone that he probably shouldn’t of have been fighting.

“Feeling better now? If ya don’t know how to Captain a ship I’d suggest hiring someone.”

His tail behind him flicked, waiting to see what these two had in mind. Outside, he still overheard the crew walking back and forth. Soon the door would be opened and they’d be bringing in Max’s belongings.

Yorro: 200

"Ah, that's a better response than I expected…" The man would mutter before considering his currently bed ridden employer. He looked like shit. With a slight smile he'd turn back to Max, "we can impose and tag along with you. Same destination, and that would get you into the Mythwyr docks faster with one aboard." 

Ghost would then clear his throat and look back to Yorro who had presently gone to stare at him. It was the most the man had said in some time and for some reason he still had a smile.

"Any objections from either party?" He would interrupt Yorro before the man could speak, probably for the best. 

As for the ship, if they were leaving it, he'd already let the rest of the crew know and what was a little sprinting around while the pirates shifted their cargo. 

"I'm no captain," Yorro would state tiredly, rather obvious if anything, but he could rely on Ghost to wrap up the strings and pull what needed together. And if that didn't work, then someone would take care of it for him. All he needed to do was give word and some bribes to secure the old ship. 

Max: 330

“Of course, we will finish loading and take off then… ehr, maybe he should stay there for the time being.”

Maxin paused before he left and rubbed his bearded chin. “The men will be in and out here loading and unloading… but if you need me or Matty and he starts feeling worse, we’ll be about the decks. I need to figure some things out and get people ordered around and settled in.”

And with that Maxin left the pair in the cabin and headed out to the deck into the sun. The man was true to his statement, he certainly was heard shouting a few choice words at people while they carted heavy objects around and threw ropes up and around the masts.

Maxin went and explored the other layers of the decks. It was so much larger than his other ship that he had this childish excitement boiling up inside of him the more he looked around. So many rooms and compartments. So much big space… a kitchen and cannon room on the first floor, a large room to the back that Matilda was already claiming followed by the crew’s quarters on the second, and a massive holding area on the third. The valuables and lions were already being carefully brought down to the belly of the ship. And in the space below the third they rolled barrels of rum and he assumed gunpowder. 

It was strange to think of what they had just accomplished… robbing this? Stupid easy. Thanks to their newly found acquaintance anyway. They might have not been able to get such a beautiful vessel without them. With his tail swaying he returned to the top deck and watched the last of the belongings get loaded in. Fast work was done with hundreds of people.

He went into the quarters to check on Yorro and gave him a cheeky grin when he saw him.

“Ya don’t get seasick, do ya?”

They’d be setting sail shortly.

Yorro: 187

There were no complaints from the merchant and nearly as soon as Max left the man would be back to sleeping. Ghost would take watch, though it was likely not needed and listen with amusement at the shouting outside. He sure didn't miss being on the receiving end. Him and Yorro has some manner of understanding since he'd come into employ and Ghost felt perhaps it was more than just of business. Entirely fine with him, this job afforded him quite the fun, even if he looked disinterested and generally uneasy to most. 

By the time Max was making it back to the quarters, Yorro had managed to sit himself up, leaning against the wall and looking out the back window. He'd felt rested now, but the hangover headache had hit him hard and he'd gingerly rub his temples in a futile attempt. Max's question would be met with a wry, "No, but I might just puke from drink." 

He'd then rub his eyes a bit and turn to toss his legs off the bed, fully looking at the pirate now, "How're you liking the new ship?" 

Max: 227

“Oh- haha.” He chuckled nervously and eyed up a bucket by the window. “Weeeelll if you do need t’barf I suggest goin’ over the railin through the door…have yer friend hold yer hair back.” Max winked and then nodded to the glass door with all the glass windows that practically made up the entirety of the back wall. There was a nice little deck out the back that wrapped around the sides, decorated in wooden statues and elegant carvings. No way would this guy be heaving all over the extravagant foreign rug across the floor. 

His tail swayed contently with the question, folding his arms lazily across his chest while he seemed unsure how to answer the question fully.

“Much nicer than I originally expected, in all honesty.

She’s a beaut though. Plenty of guns to raise hell, fit for a damn King if ya ask me.”

His tail did a little happy flick and he tilted his head to the side a bit. 

“Thank ya for the help.” Words Yorro should deeply take into appreciation, for this man rarely thanked anyone for anything. The last thank you given was to a dieing man getting crushed by a boulder that wanted to hear something nice. “That magic o’yers is pretty powerful… now to start workin’ on yer drinkin skills.” The man gave him a very toothy grin. 

Yorro: 325

"Don't worry, I won't ruin the gift." He'd follow the man's gaze to a bucket and chuckle, though it was a weak one, taking the bucket to keep it near. Seemed he was serious about puking. 

Ghost would offer a concerned look at being volunteered to hold a puking person's hair back, not that Yorro had the longest hair, but it certainly wasn't slicked back currently. "Oh, no, I'll pass, you have my mental moral support." Ghost  then clapped his hands together like he was clearing off dust and made his way to the shelves of books, seeing himself out of conversation. 

"Ever need something nicer than expected just pay some nobles a visit, they don't know what they have and squander it." He'd got his fair glimpses being a wealthy merchant son, but he was nowhere near nobility. 

At the thanks he wouldn't initially respond, perhaps unused to any expressions of gratitude, "I should be thanking you in turn, healed up my face rather decently." He'd gesture to the faint bruises left, though he did have some scars they weren't unsightly. No response came to his magic however, he found it had its uses but the man didn't consider it "powerful", yes it was powerful if wielded correctly, but compared to others it was perhaps just some parlor tricks. 

"I've had a share more than you think, but I'll keep that in mind. Perhaps we could both visit a bar sometime, there's plenty in Faline, some must suit you." He didn't think the man has expensive tastes, and sometimes the cheap drinks hit right, though the real hold on men was the ones that hardly felt like alcohol, least til you were staggering and laughing like a fool. 

"You've got everything loaded already?" He'd turn some to look out on the docks, what he could see. Not able to identify who was or wasn't really part of Max's crew that look would be short. 

Max: 171

“Yup- guess the nobles are a good place to go.. I’ll be keeping that one in mind for sure.”

Max stuffed his hands into his pockets and backed off to scan his eyes around the interior, already planning on where to put things. The doors opened and men began to bring in boxes, clothes, a couch, some other furniture- he just had them put it all on the floor to sort through and figure out later. He’d have to get out there to get the ship guided out of port.

“Little nervous to steer this thing out of here…” Max admitted with a little laugh. “Three times the size of my other one but…. I guess if I break their docks, it's not like I’ll be back here right?” Max laughed and ran his finger over the gold accents along the wall before he made his way back to Yorro… he certainly looked hung over. 

“I’m sure Faline has many… you’ll have to steer me to the good ones.” Max stated.

Yorro: 190

Max's talking felt like an eternity while the merchant's stomach turned, he'd attempt to fight off the nausea but the man made out one word, "Yes-" before he was heaving into the bucket. At least he'd noticed Max's eyes and grabbed it prior.

Across the room the ghost had dropped the book he was pretending to read, it landed loudly with a thump on the floor, looking absolutely disgusted and revolted, as if Yorro had said something obscene instead of just puking, "Oh-Nope, on your own!" He'd then make a wide but quick path well around Max and Yorro before shoving open the balcony doors and climbing up the wood molding to the higher levels. 

Yorro would cough a few times and vaguely watch Ghost ditch him, "It's just puke -" he'd start before resuming vomiting. Would be a long day if it kept up. And apparently a hefty paycheck didn't count as enough for Ghostie to stomach his employer or anyone puking or gagging. Man could deal with strewn guts like they were spilled spaghetti, but clearly he drew a hard line.

"Ugh, wonderful.. there any other alcohol on board?" 

Max: 315

It was as if the man was taken on by some demonic possession the way that his face twisted around into something between pained and miserable. Maxin was about to take a step back when whatever Yorro had been daming up inside of him came bursting forth into the bucket… Max gagged briefly, completely surprised by that sudden action- before some sort of instinct kicked in and he actually approached with a little laugh. Ghost noped the fuck out of there so hard that Max nearly missed it…. His hair was in his face, but he couldn’t tell if he was barfing on it. That was disgusting. 

Max grabbed the man’s hair and smoothed it back against his head while he started to retch and heave like a cat trying to get rid of a hairball. 

When it seemed like he was done, Maxin patted his back and took the bucket with a bit of a cringed expression playing out on his face.

“Well there’s… plenty of that but why don’t you… have some water instead maybe?” Maxin laughed nervously while he opened the back door and threw the vomit out over the railing and into the sea. It stank of alcohol, and he tried so very hard to stop his gagging as soon as it came over him. 

He’d need to rinse it out, that would stink up the cabin really quick. Maxin brought up a rope and tied it to the edge so he could drop the pail into the ocean, let the water wash it out, and brought it back up quickly incase Yorro decided he needed to barf again. 

Max walked back to the guy with bucket in hand and placed it next to his feet.

“Ah well… at least yer face is lookin’ better. What the hell happened to ya anyhow? Don’t take ya much for one to be fightin’.”

Yorro: 272

"Ah, yeah.. water." Yorro would mumble, wiping sweat from his brow and not even noticing Max leave. He was somewhat in his own world to recover from the horrid feeling of puking and by the time Max returned he looked like there wouldn't be another episode of spontaneous drunk vomiting. Max would get an apologetic look though, not the most pleasant thing to deal with, "You have my deepest apologies.." he's start, not puking this time, but merely pausing as Max set the bucket at his feet. He'd look at it for a moment before sitting up straight and running a hand through his hair to check for dreaded mess. Thankfully he found nothing and simply smoothed it back to be less wild. 

Of all the things he expected to be asked if, he had not planned on someone to ask about his face, yet it made sense after he'd passed out, no illusions to hide the evidence. "Ah… well…" he'd clearly trail off, being uncomfortable discussing though his face could be for either being sick in a bucket or the question.Perhaps also ashamed for one reason or another. 

"I'm not. That's correct, if it's not a gun, I don't  go around using my fists,.. it wasn't exactly a fight.." he'd squint some and look away at the room for a moment. Why would he tell a pirate he was abused by his own family, no one cared aside from maybe on person, and that wasn't even his mother. Yorro also didn't want to risk being upset around a man he'd met maybe a day prior, this was business wasn't it. 

Max: 289

An amused little smirk played out on Maxin’s lips while he watched the poor man attempt to pull himself back together. What a wild time that was. Can’t say he’d ever had this experience with a guy before. When Yorro’s expression changed Maxin wondered if it’s something the man didn’t want to discuss… what, did he get jumped by a kid?

“Sure well…anytime yer gettin’ your shit rocked, it’s a fight, ain’t it? Maybe it’s time ya used yer fists… or got more guns.” He patted Yorro’s head with his mind blowing advice and flicked his tail while taking another leave. 

“Gonna get you some water b’fore ya barf all over again.”

He slipped through the doors and out to the deck where men still busied themselves with tidying and making final last minute touches… then, most of them, departed. This wasn’t their ship afterall. No, they returned to the Dread. This was Chakiina’s crew that had come to their rescue. Now that they were gone Max’s group were looking a little scarce which meant they would just have to pull twice their weight if this ship was getting anywhere.

“I thiiiink.. we’re ready to take off, Captain… it’s hard to say-“

“Yes or no, Percy.”

“Suuuuure?”

Max sighed and looked down at the man with a glare. “Get me a glass of water.”

“Uhm, yessir.”

Percy disappeared and reappeared a moment later, handing it off to the Captain before blending in with the crew do lend an extra pair of hands. 

Maxin returned to Yorro once more and gave him the glass of water.

“We’re leavin’ now, I assume you’ll be fine here. Feel free to move about but I’d wait to walk until we’ve hit open waters.”

Yorro: 233

It wasn't a fight, getting bashed across the head with a piece of metal decoration, had he been prepared or had the spine to fight the situation would have been far worse. He didn't need his father to resent or suspect him more than he'd already. Someone made his father think he'd been wasting family funds on prostitutes, but Yorro didn't need that. He could find willing partners without coin, and he'd his fiance to spend the nights with. Instead he'd merely wonder why his father thought that wasn't the case, and which brother pinned him for their lust. Bastards, the lot, yet Yorro couldn't get his vengeance or resist. He'd not throw away all his plans for being accused as a whore. 

"No, I wouldn't say so, yet you seem the expert on this.." Yorro would remain seated as Max announced his departure, considering how he'd not bring a gun to commit patricide, he'd stab that rotten old man in the heart and watch his life fade.

When Max returned he accepted the water, still wishing it was something with a kick to free him of the aches, yet it was needed. His nausea still lingered so he'd heed Max's suggestion til the boat hit open water. Then if he felt the need to puke he could do so over the rails without someone's head being below. Funny as that would be. 

Max: 175

The man gave the poor merchant, seller, business man? Whatever he was another pat on the head before he left. 

“Come find me when you’re well enough. Wouldn’t mind chatting more, maybe we can sniff out the rum.”

His tail gave one swoop behind him before he left Yorro alone and returned to men ready for their captain. Max climbed the stairs to steer and give his orders for the men to move. Massive ropes were untied and the ship was free from the dock. Now was the challenge of getting this thing away from the wooden ramps. The tide and wind was favorable for them to ride it out into the open waters. A bit of wiggling and they were free of the port. It took a while and Max was holding his breath watching the other ships sneak on by them. Phew.

This thing was huge… thankfully he had Percy to share the stress with next to him. 

Once things were out, the sails were fully lowered, and they were on their way.

Yorro: 145

It would be a good while before Yorro would go to meet the Captain, likely once they were well underway and when he judged he could walk properly without curling over or into some object which would have been obvious. Hence his now sore shin when he banged it into the corner of the table. Luckily no one saw him stumble and Ghost was still hiding somewhere. 

He'd clean out the bucket with any water left and then leave it outside on the back balcony. Then he'd make his way out of the cabin after fixing up his hair and clothes more to go see whatever was going on at deck. Perhaps he'd find Max at the wheel, or maybe below deck? How long had it been? A few hours? If he couldn't find the Captain he'd ask any sailor who looked not as busy. 

—--