Walking the deck of The CAROLINE brought back many memories of the young woman who held the name. Tall and graceful, as many elves are, with a quiet passion for learning potions and healing herbs my sister had been in the background of my life. Now it seems that with this ship she again stirs in my soul. As my hands run along the rails feeling the smooth wood and brass my mind wanders to just what kind of runner she may be. Almost reading my own thoughts Bullseye appeared at my side.

"M'lady, I be thinkin tis time to pull this vessel into open waters and see how she runs."

"Well, Bullseye, I was just thinking the same thing. So give the orders we put her through the paces."

"Aye, M'lady" he said with a snappy "Pirate salute" and a twinkle in his eye.

Mixed with my own crew were many from the Navy assigned to "light duty". I know the Commodore is trying my loyalties and giving me naval personnel is his way of insuring I behave, as well as training greenhorns. Pity the greenhorns wont be learning Navy protocol, my ship is tight but it my law not Navy structures. I hope the Commodore wont mind crews who think on their own.

Shouts of crisp orders echoed off the deck and soon we were well on the way to open waters.

"Show me what she's got, Bulls!" I hollered from the upper deck.

At the wheel with a look of child like excitement the xo beamed as he took hold and let the ship run. He cut the wheel hard port and we listed hard turning so tight some of the new crew was a bit nervous. Hard starboard and back around we came listing low into the surf. The sails were strung high and tight looking every bit as sharp as any fancy ship in the fleet.

We were getting good and rolling when a strange orange blinking came from the captain's quarters. Id forgotten about that little addition to my desk top décor, signaling to ease a bit I went to see what assignment we would hold next.

"Bulls! Turn her to Guardians Gate NOW! We're under attack!"

"All Hands, Battle Stations!"

Her pace tests were now to be put into action. The CAROLINE seemed to fly across the water, cutting waves like they were grasses. Soon I heard the call from the Crow's Nest, we were there and the situation was interesting at best.

"Bulls, we can't fight this!" I lamented.

"Those are some of our own crew! Let the order stand those who do not wish to join are not required. I will not draw on my own unless the draw on me first."

Bullseye ran across the deck giving the order quietly to those of my crew, knowing the Navy would bite at any opportunity to battle.

I took up a spyglass to analyze the situation more closely. Indeed there were former Pirates in the mob, but also what I saw was more disturbing even than that. One of the buildings which was under heavy attack had Commodore Clearcastle trapped inside. New orders were issued to clear the house and allow those inside safe exit. Also ordered was for any Pirate crew to assist in healing wounded and resurrect those who walked the gray lands. I knew they wanted to get their hands dirty, but to join the fray would mean they would have to battle against brothers. None of us relished that thought. This would be the next best thing.

Once out of the house Tiberius ran straight for a foe I could not make out clearly. The battle frenzy on his face was one I had never seen, even in our own war. Sword drawn and a battle cry I could see in his eyes he released a powerful blow on his target that nearly knocked him off his ride. The blood fever ran hot and burned long between the Commodore and whomever he battled. All around them bodies lay and wounded hobbled off the field for attention, yet the two gladiators continued. Felled from his mount barely able to lift his sword a word was spoken that stopped both men in their tracks. The look of horror and utter dismay that crossed the faces of these two warriors was one I will not soon forget. Their mutual understanding ended in a handshake. The battle was over.

I recalled my crew and set out to find the Commodore. As I made my way quietly in the shadows a lone wolf ran past me with the speed and grace of one set to a purpose. The wolf, I found out, was the disguised form of Admiral Tempus Hawke. He too wished an audience with Tiberius. The little bit of the conversation I heard sent a cold chill down my spine. The sturdy cutter I had taken out this morning had been meant for him!

As soon as the Wolf left I approached. I was certain Tiberius would be angry we did not participate any more than we had, but it was quite the contrary. Our assistance was appreciated and quite timely. Now to the other matter I wished to discuss.

"Commodore, I have a concern I need to address with you."

His look was tired, but he humored me and nodded to continue.

"The CAROLINE was not meant to come to me. It was meant for another officer. I have another ship if you wish it returned and given to one who deserves it more than I."

At this he stood up and shot me a look of annoyance.

"Greyy, it's yours. I gave it to You. Tempus has the EXETER right now. Just take the damn ship!"

And with that said he walked out of the room.

"Yessir" I whispered to myself and made my way back.

Lying on deck staring at the stars my mind pondered the events of the day. Maybe someday I'll make a good officer yet. A slight chuckle exited my lips at that thought, nah it'll never happen.

~The End~