[ audio parrot to everyone on the Coup de Chance ]

[pelagically]

[ Said parrot's wings are banded with seafoam green, and said message is delivered in the utterly relaxed tone of someone who could do this in his sleep. ]

This is a message from Captain Odair.

There's been a slight change in course. We will be attempting to dock at Nuevo Paramo at the next dawn. As we've all been informed by Commodore Shepard, this will be no easy venture. I want all capable hands on deck tomorrow morning so that we may graciously meet our welcoming committee.

I need not remind you that we are in pursuit of the Silver Sextant and will not rest until we retrieve it. Keep your eyes and ears open for new information; it appears to be everywhere these days. Any new knowledge is to be brought to me post-haste.

Godspeed, men.


Oh, one more item of note — if our navigator is correct, Dante, we'll be needing your services tonight.

Comments

[coinmover]

Bringing her to battle alone, when she's two guns shy of matching our broadside with two?

Good.

I'll need extra ballast if I'm expected to unbalance our guns.

[pelagically]

I like a challenge, Erik. You know that.

I'll see what I can do.

[coinmover]

Yes, and I know that if we put twelve guns along one side to match them -- not to speak of their crews-- our gunwale will be underwater.

I can give you ten, in two batteries of five. But they'll load faster. And their shot is heavier. What's our edge? Raking over a frigate's not like plucking Spanish merchantmen, or even our little rivalries.

Nonetheless, I'll bleed them for you.

[pelagically]

This is why we keep you around! Unfortunately, I think you've forgotten about our secret weapon. It's only natural; he spends most his time sleeping.

[coinmover]

You put your trust in him; I'll place mine in iron. I know its breaking strain better.

[pelagically]

I place my trust equally in both measures. You've never failed me before. Why now?

[coinmover]

I've no intention of failing.

If you can come in close enough, I'll send them case shot on a triple charge of powder. Flay the soldiers, burn the deck. It's a better chance than trying for an even exchange.