[audio parrot]

[chronosexual]

[ A large grey parrot has been making its way around town, perching on signs and the corners of roofs. It sings a merry little tune that sounds like whistling, almost as though it's calling for someone. It then says, ]

Little ghost! Little ghost! Why do you skulk around? Little ghost! We're not scared of you, so please come out and play. We won't harm you. Let's be friends, little ghost.

Comments

[Action]

[coimiceoir]

[She falls silent, watching him, then vanishes behind the mast, only to reappear peeping from behind the thing at ground level. She'd barely reach his sternum, if he were standing.]

How many would befriend a ghost?
They chase or shoot instead.
How many would help two with their task,
Or give them a home, a place, a bed?

[Action]

[chronosexual]

Even ghosts need friends, little one. And I feel certain that anything you could do to me would not be as hideous as the curse laid upon me. I walk without fear of death, almost as a ghost would.

Don't be frightened. I mean you no harm.

[ The captain offers her his hand. ]

[Action]

[coimiceoir]

[She hesitates, her pose caught between advance and retreat.]

No one - especially not
one who lives upon the sea -
offer something for nothing.
What would you have of me?

[Action]

[chronosexual]

Everyone earns their keep, love, and you would appear to have some truly remarkable talent in climbing. I bet I could make a fine sailor out of you if we started you young. I never said it would be free.

[Action]

[coimiceoir]

[A slight smile lightens her worry and straightens her spine, but she doesn't come nearer just yet.]

And what would you say
if there were two?
Lost souls that are left
of a wrecked ship and crew?

[Action]

[chronosexual]

[ What a puzzling question. The captain raises an eyebrow and cocks his head before briefly glancing about. ]

Then I should like to meet with them if they are even half as talented and lovely as yourself. You are not alone?

[Action]

[coimiceoir]

[She shakes her head, insistent.]

Are you alone?
Always and never.
It must be safe
b'fore I hand you my tether.

[Action]

[chronosexual]

[ Curious. It makes sense for her to be cautious, he supposes. He looks around, not seeing anyone in the immediate vicinity. ]

It is late. Everyone's either fast asleep or off on shore. You've nothing to fear from me, little one.