[Audio Parrot from the hold of the Grey Lady]

[detectivewonder]

[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.

Comments

[action]

[chronosexual]

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?

[action]

[detectivewonder]

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

[action]

[chronosexual]

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

[action]

[detectivewonder]

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

[action]

[chronosexual]

[ 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?

[action]

[detectivewonder]

As the waters of Horseshoe Bay.

[action]

[chronosexual]

[ 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?

[action]

[detectivewonder]

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

[action]

[chronosexual]

[ 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?

[action]

[detectivewonder]

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.

[action]

[chronosexual]

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?

[action]

[detectivewonder]

If he does, he never mentioned it to me.