thoughtformed | [Audio Parrot from the hold of the Grey Lady]

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[Audio Parrot from the hold of the Grey Lady]

[The parrot does a remarkably good job of reproducing the creaking, echoing sound quality of the space. The singing, while cheerful, is a little creaky as well, and more than a little jaded.]

When I was just a lad looking for my true vocation
My father said "Now son, this choice deserves deliberation
Though you could be a doctor or perhaps a financier
My boy why not consider a more challenging career

Hey ho ho
You'll cruise to foreign shores
And you'll keep your mind and body sound
By working out of doors

[He breaks off with a weary laugh.]

Well. That didn't work out as intended.

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[ Now that strikes his interest. An eyebrow lifts and he leans in closer to listen. ]

And how might that be? I must admit, you've got me curious, now. Tell me your plan.

Red Robin's not a man, Captain. He's a hood, a cape, a rapier, and a trained singing voice.

A change of clothes can give one a new identity, is that what you imply?

It can give only the right man a new identity.
And I, Captain, can find you the right man to replace me;
until such time as I can dance long your gunwales again.

[ The suggestion seems to both concern and yet at the same time, intrigues Captain Harkness. He narrows his eyes, just a touch, to try and discern any dishonesty from Tim's expression. Finding nothing there, he nods. ]

Continue... Who is this man? How can you trust him so implicitly? How can I be certain that his loyalty is absolute?

Captain, I must beg your pardon. But have I given you a reason to believe so steadfastly in me?

It isn't you that I am distrusting. I've no reason to trust him more than I would trust the first drunken beggar I pass on the streets. However, you seem oddly keen on suggesting he take your place, which begs me to ask, 'why?"

It's no secret this isn't the only face that I've worn.
The longer I languish, the less likely I can e'er return.

With another Red Robin to swing from your rigging,
A broke-legged boy elsewhere leads less questions ringing.

To help you retain your identity for when you are well.. I see.. [ He strokes his chin and considers. ] And this would be a favour? What is the debt?

As I see it, we both gain. Above deck, just pretend nothing's changed.

And this third party? This false-robin? What does he seek to gain?

With all due respect, Captain, that's between me and him.

[ He pauses to consider, and then slowly nods. ]

That, I can understand and respect. Just so long as I have your word that my crew will not be harmed or taken advantage of. I like you, but if I find you or this man has deceived me, I will not hesitate to have your legs. Are we clear?

As the waters of Horseshoe Bay.

[ He smiles then, warm, but not quite jovial. ]

Excellent. And will I have a chance to meet this trick-bird before he flies into the night?

You should. I'll have to give him the good news, first.

[ He rises from his spot on the floor and dusts off his coat. ] Have him send advance notice before he arrives. I hate being surprised, and I would hate for it to end badly for him. But before I go, is there anything else you need or wish to ask of me?

Well, I wouldn't mind a new pair of legs, if you came across any. Failing that, Captain, no. You've been a gratifying and obliging victim of my whims.

You've served me well in the past, so I think it only fair that I return the favour. There would be mutiny if I failed to support my crew as they continue to support and oblige me.

[ He pauses. ]

Your friend... he wouldn't happen to know anything of the silver sextant, would he?

If he does, he never mentioned it to me.

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[Audio Parrot from the hold of the Grey Lady]

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