Punishment, Execution, or Coincidence? (Open)

[Lyanah Vexforth]

There was a storm coming. Lyanah knew it; she'd been living out in the country for enough years to know the signs of a bad storm. The wind was already getting pretty bad, clocking somewhere around thirty to forty miles an hour, dark thunderhead clouds were approaching from the horizon, booming and bursting with electric life. If the dark sky wasn't intimidating enough, there was also the humidity, so thick one might think they could cut it with a knife; just going outside made one drenched with sweat.

Nothing about the situation was comfortable, but young Lyanah had duties. Her house was directly in line with the incoming storms, and she had a farm she wanted to keep. Quickly dressing herself in her comfortable regular clothing, she rushed out of her cabin; she was guilty of sleeping in too long today, a night of drinking and staying up much to late behind her. This storm was obviously the work of her deceased parents, punishing her for acting so stupid.

Armed with her mighty Bonecrusher, Lyanah rushed across her field towards her most prized piece of agriculture, her cows. Flinging the gate open to their pin, she did her best to roar above the booming thunder overhead: “Aaaaaaaaaallllright, ladies! Get those big asses movin'!”

Flanking the group of ten dairy cows, Lyanah approached a large piece of tin nailed to the fencing. Grabbing hold of Bonecrusher, she pulled him from her back and took aim. The hammer swung, hitting its target and ringing out louder than even the strong thunder, “KRAAAANNNGGGGHHH!”

“Mooooo!!!” the cows burst forward with fright, herding out towards the open gate, and directly towards the barn.

Tossing the hammer back onto her back, Lyanah rushed forwards herself, closing the gate behind them. Slamming the barn door behind them, the young lady directed each cow to their personal spot, and closed their respective doors, locking down the herd. It was a good feeling to have her animals in a safe spot, but she could only enjoy it for a moment.

The sky exploded with a bright light above them, and the young woman knew she had to keep moving. There was food to be gathered before it was ruined by the flooding that was inevitably on its way. Bursting though the barn door with about as much grace as a fish on land, she locked the door down behind her and set on her way to the other side of the field, near the house that set at the top in the center of the property.

There was a small garden which grew fruits and vegetables, the only small crop she could afford to grow; her cows responsible for the cost- growing food for them was the only way to keep the farm at all profitable.

Snatching up a basket near the house, Lyanah rushed through the cramped garden, plucking berry after berry, picking up squash and melons, and digging for potatoes and yams. It didn't take long to fill the basket, but it that was all she'd be getting out of it. In terms of harvest size, this one wasn't the greatest she'd ever gotten, but it was still more than enough to get her by for a little while. Taking the haul of food inside her house, she reemerged a few moments later, still having one last task to complete.

There were still tools that needed to be picked up and thrown into the shed; she didn't want to lose anything in the storm, just the thought of having to spend more coin on the junk enough to make her sick. Springing across the field at full speed, the young girl didn't notice as the toe of her boot got caught against a stray root, and as it snagged it took her down. Crashing against the ground, the young lady landed on her face, her right foot twisting harshly against the root it was caught on.

The hit was enough to knock the wind out of her, her normally bright green eyes fading as consciousness left her. She'd been hit a lot throughout her life, but this hit had been one of the hardest that she'd ever felt. As her small body laid in the dirt, the black clouds boomed overhead, lightning sparkling inside; rain pouring down and almost instantly pooling on the ground, muddying the Earth.

As the storm set in above the property and the unconscious girl, it seemed like a dire situation. At that very moment it seemed less like punishment for her past crimes, and much more like an execution. The young girl's life had really just started; was this already the end of her?

[Jeska Reignhart]

Arlen and his ridiculous demands.

Jeska cursed her longtime companion under her breath. It was an empty one, but helped the woman vent her frustrations. Another glance up confirmed what she had suspected for hours now, a storm was rolling in. With miles to go before she even came close to Land’s Edge, there was little she could do to avoid the coming storm unless she convinced another to share their roof. Considering the normal disposition of those in this day and age, she believed her chances slim to none. All of this for a damn goat. Arlen would owe her several drinks for this when she finally made it back.

The old crotchety farmer she had obtained the animal from nearly matched the appearance of the four legged creature that walked alongside her. Her Captain said the old man owed him a favor and the hardy animal would be a good one to have aboard once they set back out to sea. Milk and cheese he gloated, delicious treats for those long months away from land. No local goat would suffice though; it had to be from the old man he had met years ago. She had figured the time gap alone would be a problem, but despite the old man’s failing body his mind had been sharp. Perhaps Arlen was just that hard to forget. Either way he had handed over the goat as payment long overdue. With a snort she shook her head. She supposed she would never forget Arlen either.

Up in the distance she saw what she hoped would be her shelter for the night, the barbarian turned pirate at least willing to try before being forced to find a tree. From this distance it was hard to tell, but she swore she saw someone hustling around. The figure appeared to bend and reach for the ground multiple times in the same area. Had Jeska any farm experience she might have been able to figure it out, but she had never lived the life of a harvester. In her early years she took what she wanted from her defeated foes and now, the ship had a cook. With another crack of lightning in the distance she increased her pace.

For the first time since she had begun the return trip, the goat at her side did not fight against her. Even he must have noticed what loomed above them. Sadly for him he wouldn’t be staying in the cozy cabin she saw, but the barn off to the side. ”Put yer best face on beast, we need to charm if we want a place to stay.” Whether the animal understood anything, Jeska could not be sure.

As she drew closer, the storm did as well. The woman, for Jeska could see that is what it was now, appeared focused on getting as much done as she could before the storm set on them in all its furry. Now she saw the speed at which she harvest items from her garden, wanting to gather enough to hold her through the storm should it prove more than just a swell. In such a haste to get her tasks done the girl didn’t notice the red haired stranger as she approached nor did she notice the root that snagged her foot midstride.

A warrior through and through, even she had to wince as the woman’s head bounced off the ground. All the energy she had exhibited vanished as she went limp and her fall seemed to que the rain. For a moment Jeska paused. She wasn’t exactly the caring type, but she wasn’t completely heartless either. Besides, this girl had a cabin and she needed a place to stay.

She would not leave the girl in the soon to be muddy dirt, but first things first. With one quick motion she scooped up the goat and ran for the barn, her furry companions complaints ignored as her sprint jostled him in her strong arms. With a yank the door was open and a moment later her charge was secure to a post. Doors locked back down to keep the animal’s safe, her attention turned to the unconscious girl. Long strides brought her to the small woman’s side and she was small, especially compared to Jeska herself.

The redhead dropped to a knee before she carefully rolled the girl over. Her eyes lingered on her chest for a moment to verify she still breathed. That confirmed, one arm went under the girls back and the other behind her knees. With relatively minimal effort Jeska rose with woman in her arms. She tried to be as gentle as possible, but the two of them were already getting soaked. For a second she paused, the warhammer on the ground drawing curious attention before she refocused on the task at hand. Towards the small cabin she went, turning to the side as she stepped through the door. Gently she would lay the girl down on the bed, checking one more time to make sure she was breathing.

With a roll of her neck she stepped away and back outside to recover what the girl had been carrying. When she had gone down the berries and vegetables in her basket had gone flying. Strewn across the ground, Jeska worked to gather all she could find and toss them back into the basket. They were dirty, but not lost. Last she scooped up the impressive warhammer. The pristine katana at her hip was a testament to her opinion of a good weapon and how it should be handled. This girl might not be a warrior, but she wasn’t about to let her weapon rust in the rain.

Once back inside she cast a glance at her unaware host. Jeska set the basket down before she moved alongside the bed. Beyond a possible concussion the she appeared to be okay…save that swollen ankle. With a sigh she ripped a piece of cloth from her own clothing, the material damp and cool. Gently she began to wrap the woman’s swollen ankle. With any luck this would be worth her time and she wouldn’t be sent out into the storm when the girl awoke. It was her home after all.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

In terms of length of unconsciousness this had been the longest Lyanah had ever been knocked out. Still, it would be brought to a quick end against the pain of her ankle. As the kind stranger began tending to her wound, Lyanah's eyes jolted open and her face twisted with pain, ”Sonofabitch, that hurts!” she groaned, her body twisting away automatically from the stranger.

The pain in her ankle doubled from the sudden movement, and her body froze, ”And-thats-waaay-worse!” she shouted, the speed at which her words left her quite impressive. Her head rose enough to see the figure aiding to her; at this point, it didn't really matter, she wasn't much use in this state. If this person was going to help out, then why not let them?

”Uh, hi....” she said plainly, not exactly sure how to react in sure an awkward situation; although in truth Lyanah had been in many dire situations, but none from which she'd been rescued. This was an interesting change of pace to say the least.

”S-sorry about all that...” she said with a light shrug, very carefully re-offering her savior her ankle. If the woman continued, the small blonde would lay back in her bed and let out a huff as the sound of the storm finally reached her ears, ”It hit, hmm?” she pondered aloud, then glanced back down to the woman.

With the first look at the woman, Lyanah had only really noticed the red hear. Now that she got a better look, she noted the furs, tan skin, and sword. Though it was hard to tell how tall she was from such an angle, Lyanah would guess that the woman couldn't have been that much older than herself. Smiling lightly at the idea, she realized that the two would be stuck together for at least the night. Unsettling as it was to have a stranger in her house indefinitely, the young blonde thought of only one solution to make things easier: ”Well, stranger... How do you normally pass the time?”

[Jeska Reignhart]

When the girl woke with a start, Jeska didn’t as much as flinch. Her hands paused in their wrapping of her ankle, but only because she had shifted her position and instinctively pulled the leg away. Honestly, the pirate had expected more concern from the blonde when she awoke. There was a stranger in her house after all, an armed on at that. Instead she went to offer an uncomfortable greeting before musing about the storm that pelted the cabin with heavy rain.

”Hello…now hold still and I will finish wrapping your ankle.” A few moments later, she had done just that. With the cloth secured around the girl’s ankle, Jeska rose to her full nearly six foot height. A crack of her neck readjusted her spine after the time she had spent crouched as her eyes scanned her housemate over. Subtlety was not something in the barbarian’s skillset and she often appraised people openly. Numerous bar fights had been started because of it. Her eyes came back to rest on the girl’s face as she posed her question.

”For one, my name is Jeska, not stranger…even if I am one. And normally I wait out storms like this with ale and wenches...with my luck; I doubt you have either hidden away.” A small chuckle came at her own joke as she turned away. Manners were also not an area where the redhead excelled. From her perspective, the woman had not kicked her out so she was welcome to stay. Perhaps the farmer was unaccustomed to visitors. Most of her ilk did not allow guests without rounds of questions.

Despite her lack of etiquette she knew how to survive and Jeska was aware that if they were to be trapped for more than a night they would need to eat. She stepped towards the door, scooping up a handful of vegetables and berries from the basket. As she pulled the door open enough to fit her hand out, she braced the back of it with a boot. Carefully she began to wash the food in the rain, letting as little water in as possible.

”I have to ask, what is a little one like you doing with such a weapon?” Her head motioned to the weapon she had set against the wall. Jeska had noticed how fit the girl was, but she was barely above five foot if at all. On top of that she lived on a farm…hardly the place for a warhammer. It didn’t help the barbarian rarely gave credit to other female warriors, especially when unproven.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

No doubt it took her by surprise as the redhead rose to her feet, standing nearly a foot taller than the young blond, however it didn't take long for the girl to snap out of it. Letting out a laugh of her own at Jeska's response to her questions, Lyanah echoed ”Ale and wenches, eh?” she took a quick glance around the room and shook her head, ”Nope... finished the booze last night... Buuuut I do have heifers in the barn,” she joked back; her humor likely lost on the other woman.

Lyanah watched as the woman picked up the basket of food she'd gathered, and stepped outside to wash them off in the rain, ”Jeska, hmm? I think that's a pretty name...” she commented after a brief moment, then added, ”My name is Lyanah.”

Turning back, Jeska asked about Bonecrusher, the topic instantly bringing a smile to Lyanah's face, ”Oh, him?” she asked, quickly and carefully scooting up to the corner of her bed. Reaching over, the extension of her short arm enough to reach the wall from the bed, the girl snatched up the hilt of the weapon, pulling it towards her, ”What? Do you think it's a bit much?” she asked with a risen brow, her eyes scanning the weapon up and down.

”I mean, I've tried using a sword before, but I was never any good... One day I cast an eye on this beauty, and something told me I needed to acquire him. So I did...” Heaving the heavy hammer up, she rested the long hilt on his shoulder, twirling it in her hand, the maul spinning behind her, trying her best to prove she had little issues wielding the weapon, ”Plus, I think I look pretty bad ass standing above my defeated enemies with it,” she added, laughing at her words; giving very little hint to whether it was a joke or not.

[Jeska Reignhart]

The redhead did chuckle at the heifers comment. This girl possessed spirit, that was for sure. ”I hope I am never that desperate, but thanks for the offer, Lyanah.” Jeska was rather surprised to find someone with such high spirits out here. Lyanah did appear to be young though so perhaps the fire of youth still burned within her. Or perhaps the girl was just odd. On top of that the pirate had never been told her name was pretty before, well, not with the intent of something in return. Her host came off as genuine.

When the discussion switched to the warhammer that Lyanah clearly felt was male, Jeska felt another chuckle rise in her throat. Her amusement was not at the girl’s expense, but in response to the confidence she exuded. Arlen often accused Jeska of over confidence, the woman a firm believer that few in the world could match her in one on one combat. The Captain always said, “Jeska, you may feel that way, but you haven’t even seen half of the world so how can you be sure?” She was sure.

”Him, eh? I must assume the two of you are close, does he have a name?” More honest words had not been spoken. There was neither hint of sarcasm in Jeska’s tone nor any mirth. The katana at her hip was hers and hers alone and although she had never named the weapon she felt a bond with it. Every full blooded warrior did. In her profession and many others, the weapons you carried with you determined how long you lived. Normally they were inanimate objects, but in the right hands they became an extension of their wielder.

With the edibles washed as best she could, Jeska shut the door to keep out the cold. A thud followed as she set the basket down and took a step towards the blonde. ”May I?” Came the friendly request as her hand extended towards the girl, asking to see the weapon up close now that she wasn’t trying to carry it and its owner inside.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

Her composure nearly slipped at Jeska's response to her joke; however after a brief moment, and the topic changing a few times, Lyanah regained it. Nodding to Jeska's question of connection between her and the weapon, the young blonde smiled kindly, ”Ever since I picked him up, we've been inseparable. People have rolled in and out of my life since, but ol' Bonecrusher here, well he's always there at my side when I need him.” chuckling lightly, the light-brown skinned girl gave a small shrug, ”Maybe I'm just crazy...” she mused aloud. For some reason saying such things out loud sure made her feel that way.

The redhead returned inside the small home, setting the basket of food to the side. Turning, the woman extended a hand towards Lyanah and kindly asked to handle to weapon. For a brief moment, a look of unease shot over the small girl's face. Being such a brutal weapon, no one had ever asked to see it up close; this woman's hands literally the only other set to touch the beautifully crafted hammer since Lyanah had gotten it.

”Oh well, what the hell. She had to of brought it inside anyways,” she thought, and after a short moment, she nodded and held the heavy maul out in front of her, allowing Jeska to grasp it above her hand. Surrendering the weapon as the woman's fingers wrapped around it, Lyanah would watch her closely. They way she handled the tool, likely a true testament to the kind of person that Jeska was.

Firstly, the woman would note the weight: probably nearing fifty pounds in total. Such a bulky weapon might feel strange in the hands of someone inexperienced in combat; however a veteran might note the perfect balance; and with a short, and low swing, they would feel how easily the weapon's strikes might carry through- and how they could possibly spin and twirl the wielder in the process.

”Well?” she asked after allowing what she thought an appropriate time for the woman to form an opinion of the weapon, ”What do you think?”

[Jeska Reignhart]

Jeska definitely did not think the girl crazy. Seeing as she lived alone save her beasts, she had to have an attachment to something. In truth weapons were often more reliable than people. They never betrayed you, never disagreed and perhaps most importantly, never drank the last of the ale. The pirate, who was often judgemental of other woman, felt less so for this girl. Her physical strength to wield such a weapon and the strength of will that allowed her to live alone both something Jeska could respect.

”You're not crazy.” Shared the redhead as her hand clasped the shaft of the warhammer. Instantly she felt it's weight, the weapon far from light. Muscles in her arms tensed some in order to hold the weapon comfortable and the tone physique of her host made even more sense. In her younger years, before he had fallen in love with the katana, Jeska had fought with various weapons. From daggers to mauls, the then barbarian relied on her strength and ferocity to win the day. That changed when she met Arlen. He had taught her that strength and ferocity were most deadly when focused.

By the time Lyanah asked the large woman's thoughts, Jeska returned a satisfied nod.

”Seems well made, balanced. A good weapon to be sure.” With a half smile she held it out for the girl to take back. Lyanah seemed well spirited but borderline naive. Jeska’s old, more violent self might have turned the weapon on the girl simply to claim it as her own. Thankfully for the both of them, that wild version of the redhead was dead...mostly.

With a stretch and scratch of her bare stomach, Jeska openly scanned Lyanah up and down yet again. ”No offense, but why such a large weapon? You're not exactly large yourself.” If the blonde had issues with her height that might come off as rude. Jeska was often blunt, her lack of manners responsible for more than one fight. What would you expect though, from a barbarian turned pirate?

[Lyanah Vexforth]

The reassurance of her sanity was enough to draw a sigh of relief from the young lady. Not that she really knew this woman, nor cared what she really thought about her, but knowing that she didn't seem as crazy as she thought was definitely nice. Watching the larger woman wield the heavy maul was interesting. Lyanah was young, and lacked experience, but from what she saw it was easy to tell that may have not been the case with this redhead.

”Thanks,” she told her, taking hold of the weapon as it was passed back. Smiling kindly Lyanah set the weapon down at her feet and flung herself back onto the bed. To Lyanah the woman's question wasn't rude; she was only stating a fact, Lyanah was built fairly small.

”Well, you know what they say... Good things in small packages?” she joked, her arms spreading out on the bed only for her fingers to interlock behind her head. Letting out a small giggle, she gave a slight shrug, ”Well, for one thing he's intimidating as hell...” she told her. Lyanah was no coward, nor was she afraid to fight, but long ago she had found that a majority of conflicts could be solved before they started just from intimidation.

”You're right, I don't exactly have size on my hands... All in all, I know I'm not exactly frightening... As a kid, I was kind of... 'easy pickings', I guess...” For a moment the young girls face went blank, however after a moment her expression turned to a forced smile, ”But, I mean with Bonecrusher... Come on, you'd have to either be stupid, or suicidal, to want to mess with someone wielding a weapon like him.” letting out a dry chuckle, the young lady shifted to be laying on her side so she could look the redhead over again.

”Now its my turn to ask you a question...” Lyanah suggested, placing an index finger to her chin. ”What brings a warrior like you way the hell out here in such weather?” Finally asking a question that made sense, the young woman rose a brow, ”Whatever reason, it's gotta be important, right?”

[Jeska Reignhart]

“Mmmm, they often do.” Was her response to the good things in small packages comment, being polite enough to not take it further. Beyond her obvious interest before, she didn’t want to come across as the barbarian she used to be. Arlen was a bad influence on her, always dragging her from tavern to tavern. What was she supposed to do when presented drinks and wenches? As for the weapon, she had to admit the large warhammer was intimidating as a weapon, not to her personally, but in general. How strange she had happened across this rather unique girl by simple chance.

When it was her turn to answer a question, the pirate couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped her lips. What had brought her here, an epic quest? A cross continent journey or was she on the run from the law? Sadly, her reason for being so far from the shore and sea she loved…was a goat. Despite its lack of story building quality, she told the truth. Although, there was a small slump of her shoulders before she spoke.

”I would love to say something amazing, but when it comes down to it, I am on an errand. My friend….Captain, asked that a pick up a goat.” The short roll of her eyes that followed indicated she thought the task beneath her, yet here she was. ”If it wasn’t for how much I owed him, I would have told him to shove it. Oh, by the way, the goat is in your barn along with the cows…I didn’t want to leave him out in the rain.” She attempted to offer a smile as if to say “please don’t think I am taking advantage of your hospitality.”

”What about you? What are you doing here? No offense, but you look to be a fit girl and by your own words are talented with your friend there. Why not do more than farm the land?” In her opinion it was a waste for someone with the strength and drive Lyanah possessed to spend her days pulling vegetables from the ground and shoveling shit.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

”A goat, hmm?” she echoed, her tone one of slight disbelief. From the woman's own reactions to her story, it wasn't hard to see she felt the same way. Revealing she'd put the goat in the barn, Jeska seemed a little uncomfortable as she forced a smile, but Lyanah kindly smiled back and gave a wave of her hand, ”A fit place for him,” was all she said in response to that. She didn't mind; it wasn't like her cows would either.

When the redhead questioned what the small blonde did, she kindly smiled once more, ”Actually, farming isn't all that I do. In truth, this farm is pretty self-sufficient. If I let the cows to pasture, and left for a few months, they probably wouldn't even notice.” Turning her gaze towards the door she shrugged, ”You were pretty lucky to catch me here, in all honesty... I spend most of my time in Lands Edge..." Her answer wasn't direct, as if beating around the question of what she actually did for a living. She wouldn't be so outright about swindling, and outsmarting people to get what she needed.

Her words were slightly drawn out, a sign that she was deep in thought. Suddenly her green eyes darted from the door back to the redhead and narrowed in question, ”Wait... You said Captain?” she asked, a tone of wonder to her young voice, ”Does that mean you're a pirate?”

Lyanah had met her fair share of pirates throughout the many taverns of Lands Edge, but never had she engaged one in actual conversation. For the most part, to her they came off as brutes, or perverts; however, Jeska seemed much different. Sure the woman was built for such a life: long framed, with a toned body, and legs that seemed sturdy as a tree trunk, but still the idea seemed unbelievable to young Lyanah, ”Pardon my skepticism here, but aren't you a little too pretty to be a pirate?”

Quickly, the young lady showed that she was nervous of her own question; shifting on the bed, she gulped hard, her face flushing a bright red, ”I-I-I mean...” she quickly stammered, trying her best to recover, ”Don't take it the wrong way, but all the pirates I have met have been big-burly men...” her tone was low, and the confidence she'd previously shown had faded; she wasn't afraid of her company, but the last thing she wanted to do was offend her house-guest. Her words left her mouth slowly as if to show she was doing her best to keep from being offensive, and she added: ”From what they've all told me; you don't exactly fit the description...”

[Jeska Reignhart]

”A damn goat.” Jeska half mumbled in response. The ex-barbarian was still unable to comprehend how far she had come for a simple animal. Arlen’s grand idea was the milk the animal would provide when out at sea, a delicious source of calcium. The red head had already sworn to herself that if the goat didn’t produce she was going to toss it overboard. So help her she would. Lyanah’s words drew her from the image of the goat disappearing between the waves; her slightly cryptic answer a perfect one for the less then scholarly pirate although she did not miss her mention of Land’s Edge.

When Jeska’s profession dawned on the girl, Jeska couldn’t help the chuckle and smirk that followed. As skilled as the woman came across, fit and determined to live in such a harsh world on her own, she still had a girlish sense of wonder. Many children she met in her life looked at her with awe when she jumped from the deck to the dock. Perhaps it was her height and build, far different than most woman of Land’s Edge, but more likely it was the vessel she arrived in. The idea of a pirate traveling the high seas on endless adventures appealed too many. It had drawn Jeska in just the same.

However, when the next comment escaped the blonde’s lips, a raised eyebrow was sent her way. In her life countless descriptors had been thrown her way. Barbarian, pirate, savage, womanizer, wench, but pretty was one of the rare ones. For a moment she looked at the girl as if the comment had offended her, her true emotions masked by a stoic expression. Only after she felt the look had been sold enough did she burst into laughter.

”Hahaha…too pretty, eh? Who is to say that I don’t fit what most expect. For all you know I shave on a regular basis and bed bar wenches with ease.” Another chuckle came before she continued. ”One of those is true. I can promise you there is more to me than meets the eye, but to clarify I am a pirate.” A heartbeat later she stood, once again her full height as she turned to face the girl.

”Jeska Reignhart, First Mate of the S.S. Flying Popo at your service. But from one pretty girl to another, most call me Red.” Unlike all those fancy nobles that bowed and curtseyed, Jeska was far simpler. Her right arm extended towards the injured girl, an offer to shake with an official greeting. Jeska liked the girl; she was friendly, honest and attractive. What else was needed?

[Lyanah Vexforth]

Jeska was able to completely sell the look of offense, Lyanah's heart dropping in her chest. It seemed that her fears had come true. She offended her guest. Now things would surely be uncomfortable for the rest of the night. Glancing down at the bed, she nearly let out a sigh, when suddenly a burst of laughter caught her off guard. Eyes darting to the pirate-woman, the young girl couldn't help but smile. It seemed Jeska and her had more in common than she'd first thought; their sense of humor closer than she'd ever imagined.

As the woman spoke, the young blonde burst into laughter herself; one thing Lyanah was sure of was that this woman definitely talked like a pirate. Stating that there was more to her than was visible, the redhead revealed she was indeed a pirate. Standing quickly, the woman turned and properly introduced herself, presenting her rank and vessel name. ”First Mate of the S.S. Flying Popo.” the words echoed though the young girls mind, it sounded like something from a fairy tale. Jeska peeked the blonde's interests, she was unlike anyone she'd ever met.

As the pirate-woman offered her nickname, Lyanah's face lit up, and by the time the woman extended a hand the young blonde would be sitting on her knees, excitedly gritting her teeth against the pain she put herself in. There was no doubt that the girl was happy the two already got along so well. Living the way she did, it wasn't often Lyanah made real friends; already she could feel a friendship forming between them.

”Red,” Lyanah echoed, firmly grasping the other woman's hand; the height of the bed nearly enough for the short woman to meet Jeska's gaze.

”Well, I've never had a nickname...” she said, a somewhat disappointed tone to her voice; however it wouldn't last long as the enthusiasm returned, ”But my full name is Lyanah Vexforth, and it's a pleasure to meet you!~” returning the woman's hand shake, the girl couldn't help but to beam brightly. She liked the other woman very much; her company welcomed even more by the second. She was definitely glad out of all the people in the world, it was Red that had stumbled across her in the rain. It seemed that fate was funny like that sometimes...

[Jeska Reignhart]

As Lyanah moved to grasp her hand, Jeska extended her arm a tad further so that she could grasp the other girls tone forearm instead of her open hand. Position allowed the blonde to do the same in return, the gesture a little different than your traditional handshake. From the pirates point of view a friendship was possible between the two even if it was in the beginning stages. Jeska could be hard to get to know and many found her abrasive due to her forward nature, yet Lyanah appeared to be just fine with her. Perhaps she should stop looking to meet others in taverns…perhaps that was the reason her nights ended in brawls more often than bedrooms.

”Bah, an adventurous one like you? I would put coin on you having a nickname before too long. Although, you are much more likely to find one in Land’s End than here shoveling shit.” A chuckle followed the statement despite the obvious truth in it. Part of her wanted to invite the girl to visit their ship while it was docked, yet a different part of her knew Arlen didn’t like unannounced visitors. Something about undercover customs workers or some rubbish. The retired barbarian wasn’t much for internal debates and more often than not just went with her gut. She liked the girl and saw multiple potential benefits of extending an invite.

”Yah know what, how about the next time you are in Land’s End, you head to the docks? Ask around for our ship and I can give you a tour. Who knows, I might just convince you there is something better than herding cattle and harvesting vegetables.” At the same time she offered the initiation she released the girls arm. Something else was already on her mind. Her road had been a long one and after a long day, she was getting hungry. Sadly enough, she was used to having a ship chef. Cleaning the stuff Lyanah had dropped on the ground was easy enough, but cooking it was a different matter.

”So uhhhh, were you planning on anything specific for dinner or was the dirt you at earlier enough?”

[Lyanah Vexforth]

At first the handshake seemed somewhat awkward to the young girl; Jeska wrapping her fingers firmly around her forearm, yet as the girl did the same if began to feel more natural. Listening intently to her kind words of a future nickname, Lyanah's beaming face didn't drop; the comment of pooper-scooper duty even drawing a laugh from the girl's throat. The pirate was rather forward about her distaste for Lyanah's way of life; however the young girl took no offense. The offer to actually do much else had never fell to her. It seemed that fate was intent on keeping her coming back to the family plot, and taking care of the normal, boring farm matters.

However, with the redhead's next statement, all that changed; her offer exactly the kind of think Lyanah had been waiting for. Her brightly beaming face grew brighter; her light green eyes sparkling with young excitement, and determination. She'd never been on a ship before, the need to travel over-seas mostly non-existent; nevertheless, to say she'd never dreamed of the sweet life of piracy- day-drinking, action, friendships- would have been false. She'd always felt the need for more excitement in her life; besides, she'd never find her parent's murderer saying at the farm.

Catching the dumb look after a moment of painfully obvious excitement, Lyanah nodded, ”Sounds good to me,” she said coolly, trying to retain her exhilaration, ”I will hold you to it.”

As Jeska released her forearm, Lyanah quickly shifted once again; wincing with pain as she did so. She'd nearly forgotten about her ankle within the excitement- now, she realized how much she really hurt, and just felt stupid. Kicking her feet off the side of the bed and the pirate-woman mentioned food, the young blonde slowly, and carefully kicked herself off the bed. Though not a high drop, it was enough to cause her to stumble as she tried balancing on her good foot.

She too was realizing she was hungry; her previous dinner plans had been something light, but now that she had company, she'd have to improvise. Hopping over to the kitchen, only a few feet from the bed, she opened her ice-box, and peeked inside, ”Hmmmm...” she pondered aloud as her eyes scanned the continents. There was food- mainly meat, some cheese, and milk. Hopefully Jeska was a meat eater.

”So long as you're a fan of hardy stew, I can whip up something...” she said, standing on the tips of her toes, she peeked over the door and set her gaze towards Jeska, ”You're not a picky eater are you?” she asked. Perhaps it was a stupid question, but Lyanah knew everyone had their own tastes. The meat would be a type of meat and vegetable rich stew; not the most visually appealing meal, but one that would undoubtedly taste good. Cooking wasn't exactly the young woman's strongest skill, but over the years of living on her own she'd figured out a fair balance in her preparation of cuisine.

”I have no problem doing the majority of the cooking, but you'll have to help me in the preparation... “ she'd reply, ”Moving around in this tiny-ass kitchen isn't exactly easy on one foot!” With a laugh, she'd begin collecting a few key ingredients from the ice-box and placing them on the counter not far behind her.

[Jeska Reignhart]

Jeska would hold true to her word. Any time that Lyanah made her way to the city, she would give her a tour of the ship. Arlen wouldn’t have a say in the matter despite the title that came before his name. Being First Mate had its privileges and Arlen just plain gave in most of the time. In the early years Jeska had to wonder how someone so easy going and often kind managed to survive for so long. Of course as she spent time with her Captain it the answer to that question became clear. He was friendly enough to inspire loyalty and devotion, but ruthless enough to keep merchant vessels fleeing at the sight of the Popo’s sails. He was a good man.

The pirate almost offered to help the woman as she hopped her way across the room, but figured it might be insulting to do so. She wouldn’t have wanted the help even if she had lost a foot, never mind just a sprain. Heavy footsteps took her to the woman’s side though, intent of helping if she could. ”As long as it isn’t moving, I will eat it.” For a moment she tapped her chin. ”And in some cases even that isn’t a turn off.” With a small smirk she grabbed for some of the vegetables she had washed off earlier. In short order she produced a small knife from her person and began to chop. It would be notable that the pieces she cut the vegetables into were not even nor cleanly cut, she was no chef.

As they continued to prepare, Jeska sought to know more about her host.

”So, you said you have used the weapon before and seem confident with it, but how much have you used it? Have you ever been in real combat, taken a life?” The comment possessed the potential to be off-putting thanks to the subject matter and not usually casual dinner preparation material. However, Jeska had little in terms of a filter when it came to topics thought “socially unacceptable.” Her demeanor remained relaxed as she posed the question, hands carefully chopping away at the vegetables in front of her. Only once did she send a glance to the blonde beside her. To her death was simply a part of life, something she had dealt with as a barbarian and now a pirate on basically a day to day basis.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

Jeska seemed somewhat reserved in aiding Lyanah, but the young girl didn't mind; in fact, she respected the woman's decision. Instead of helping, the redhead rose and walked with the young girl, ready to catch her in case she needed the help. The young blonde was determined to prove she didn't need any help moving, yet was silently thankful for Jeska's presence; it wasn't every day that the dark-skinned girl got treated like a capable adult.

The redhead's comments on food preference brought out a giggle from the girl, and she shook her head, ”Well I can promise it will be dead and fully cooked.” she reassured her, closing the ice-box after removing a pleasing amount of ingredients from it.

Grabbing a large pot from a lower cupboard, she tossed it on the stove, and poured some water into it from a pitcher on the counter. Turning, she quickly produced a knife of her own from a drawer, and set to work on chopping up the meat she'd selected. Her movements with the blade were sloppy, nearly-so as much at Jeska's, however, there was a somewhat admirable speed to the way she worked.

It was then the pirate-woman brought up a rather interesting question. Upon hearing it, Lyanah stood in silence a moment, her chopping stopping only long enough for her to draw in a deep breath and release a sigh. Her past was riddled with many grim things, the death of her parents, the actions of others, but one thing she'd kept herself from ever doing was taking the life of another. There had been a small handful of times where she was in the position to take a life, but she had always stopped herself from it. To her, the only reason to kill another was if they were a murderer. Fighting fire with fire, so to speak.

Finishing chopping on her hunk of beef-roast, she gathered the pieces and tossed them in the pot, flicking the stove on with a skillful finger, ”I've used it enough to know what it's capable of...” she told her guest, turning on her good foot to face her, resting her back against the edge of the counter top, both arms supporting her, ”but I've never killed anyone...”

Suddenly her face would shift from a somewhat distant look, to a smile, ”Just toss those in the pan when you're done.” she said kindly, motioning to the pot with a nod of her head.

”How about you?” she asked, nearly afraid of the answer; however, her happy demeanor would mask her true feelings, ”Have you killed anyone?”

[Jeska Reignhart]

As she helped prepare the mood she was being allowed to share with Lyanah, Jeska took in the girl’s response to her question. From the start she intended nothing deep as a response. Curiosity fueled her words and the fact this fit woman, who lived on her own, possessed such an impressive and relatively uncommon weapon had her quite curious. In her day she had come across many who carried weapons on their belt or across their back, yet more often than she felt comfortable with they were unskilled with the tool. In her opinion, there was nothing more frightening than an ally unable to wield their weapon.

With a short nod she tossed in the vegetables she had already cut through, starting the cooking process and clearing space to chop more. Jeska appreciated a good meal, yet the idea of being the one to cook one day in and day out made her want to vomit. So many spent their lives in the kitchen or mending clothes, how was that a satisfactory life? The day Jeska got married and was forced to be a housewife first and a warrior second was the day she slit her own wrists.

As for the return question…

Many had fallen to her blades or whatever makeshift weapon she held at the time. For a moment she almost held back on the answer, not wanting to scare the woman or make her feel uneasy. Something about withholding information just did not feel right.

”In my younger days I used to kill others simply for the challenge of it. My people raid the coasts and the villages along them for loot and slaves. For several years, I was part of this. Truth be told I only realized the error of my ways when I found myself in shackles. I assume I deserved it then.” A small shrug followed to indicate she didn’t plan on thinking to deeply on the issue.

”However, when I was given a second chance at life I took a different path. That is not to say I have not taken a life on the high seas, I have, but they have been in self defense. We may steal what we can for that is our goal, bloodshed is avoided whenever possible.” Another handful of chopped vegetables went into the pot. ”I am no threat to you Lyanah, you have my word. However, I will leave if that is your wish.” The truth of her past might overpower her invitation to stay. Jeska liked the girl and would be respectful enough to leave if asked.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

Jeska’s honesty with her response was somewhat surprising to the young woman. Her eyes widened a bit as she listened, leaning against the countertop a little more in the process. It was not every day someone would be so open about their past as she had been, and in all honest it was refreshing. After a moment of thought, Lyanah nodded in response, watching the girl throw a couple handfuls of vegetables into the pot, ”I see…” she responded accordingly, obviously thinking deeply about the woman’s words.

Her offer to leave if necessary was a very polite one, and for just a split second Lyanah actually considered it; however it was just that: a split second. Shaking her head, the young woman lifted a hand and gave a wave, ”No, that’s not necessary. Your company is still welcomed.” she told her, offering a genuinely kind smile.

The young woman couldn’t even remember the last time she had company, let alone the last time she actually had someone to even talk to. Shooing the redhead off wasn’t something she wanted to do, even despite her relatively bloody past. She had stated she’d seen the error of her ways, and that was more than enough for the naïve girl; who’d had a similar, but less violent experience a time or two before.

”You know, my parents were murdered…” she confided out loud; she was unsure why the words blurted out of her, but by the time they escaped her mouth, it was too late to take them back, ”If I ever find that son of a bitch that did it, I will mount his head on a stake near my doorstep…” her words were full of venom, something that she didn’t show very often. Sure, Lyanah was a strong girl, cunning, keen-sensed, but she was normally reserved. It seemed Jeska’s honesty had brought out her own.

Hopping off the counter and back onto her good foot, the young lady pivoted on her heel, spinning back towards the stovetop and the pot that began bubbling on top of it. Quickly snatching a large spoon, she dipped it in and began to stir; already, the delicious scent of the brewing stew filled the house. Inhaling loudly, the girl let out a satisfied sigh; there was still cooking to be done, but she could already tell this food was going to taste delicious. She only hoped her house guest would think the same…

”I know you don’t actually know me…” she said somewhat randomly, glancing over her shoulder and back to the pirate-woman, ”But girl to girl, can I ask you something?”


A light pink color appeared on her cheek, showing obvious embarrassment at the question she was about to ask: ”Do you think I could ever be a pirate?”


There was that childish sense of wonder once again; her eyes lit up, her tone bubbly through her question- clearly this was something she’d wondered before, something that she’d dreamt about. She already had the thieving skills, and the silver-tongue, perhaps unbeknownst to Jeska- and her fighting skills were above average, to say the least. Until that very moment, it was never more than a dream though. And in that moment, Jeska’s answer held the weight of young Lyanah’s whole future- or so it seemed.

[Jeska Reignhart]

Silently Jeska thanked the girl for allowing her to stay. Lyanah was strange, light hearted and care free from an outsiders perspective yet at the same time she seemed down to earth. Many found the barbarians past…a grey area at best, one that drew frowns from those that learned the truth. Just another thing for her to exchange blows over, the past unchangeable and unfixable, but forever with you. Not all were judgmental though and the blonde was one of them. The pirate would not have to slog through the rain with a goat across her shoulder, which in itself was a win despite how the rest of the evening went.

At the mention of her parent’s murder, the red head could only nod in agreement to the woman’s pre-decided fate of the one responsible. Admittedly she had killed people for less, so she understood the gravity of vengeance above the life taking of a blood crazed barbarian. On several occasions she the death of a crew member had resulted in the excessive painful end to their killer. Piracy came with its risks, yet the woman took the deaths of her friends very seriously. They signed on for it, but that did not mean she couldn’t avenge them.

”I support your decision. Many say revenge is not worth it, they are wrong.”

As blunt as during the rest of their encounter, Jeska felt no reason to hold back her words. Lyanah, although a farm girl in one sense, felt worldlier than that. With the weapon she owned it was clear there was more to the girl than met the eye. In some aspects it would be plausible that the two could have been sisters. The mention of girl to girl only reinforced such an idea, the barbarian allowing a small chuckled before she nodded.

Out of the corner of her eye she noticed the slight blush in the girl’s cheeks. She sure was an amusing one.

”You? That depends. Are you willing to commit to such a thing? I rarely meet another that enjoys his time on the sea and also owns a farm. Somehow, the two do no blend.” Jeska was messing with her. ”Although…you seem capable of handling yourself in combat, from your own words at least and you do seem to have the spirit for it….yet, it’s still hard to tell. I suppose you wouldn’t know until you tried. My invitation to visit stands, perhaps if you act on it you will get a better idea if the life is for you.” Jeska felt the girl could handle it and having her aboard the ship if she ever chose to come had…multiple benefits.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

As cold as it was, Lyanah couldn’t help but smile at receiving Jeska’s support. Often the young girl found herself feeling crazy for having so much hatred towards someone. The pirate’s next words even more so helping the girl make up her mind; an answer to yet another question she’d found herself asking. Would it even be worth it? This woman had obviously lived a rough life. She’d seen things Lyanah had never imagined; so when she spoke the young blonde took her words to heart.

Lightening up the mood, Jeska was quick to tease the girl. Half-turning, she rose a brow, her nose wrinkling at the redhead, as she scoffed playfully, ”perhaps you underestimate me,” she replied, laughter escaping her lips. By this time her mind was made up. She knew what her next moves would be.

Returning her attention to her cooking, she quickly snatched the milk from the countertop next to her. Unscrewing the cap she poured a generous amount of the dairy into the large pot, stirring vigorously with her other hand. Behind her, her right foot rose into the air, bending at the knee as she leaned over the pot, nearly needing to stand on her tippy toes to see into it. Once pleased with the mix, she quickly turned the stove down, and spun once more to face towards the rest of the small house.

Hobbling over, to the small table and two chairs in the center of the tiny room, she took a seat at one and propped her ankle across her left thigh. Gently touching it, she began to massage it; all this being on her feet causing pain to flare up once again, ”Jeska, might you be a doll and make sure that doesn’t burn for me?” she asked, motioning to the pot with a shrug of her head, ”I need a moment.” Hopefully, with some proper care she could shrug this pain of by tomorrow, or the next day at the latest. If she had booze, she might even just drink the pain off; however aside from the nagging feeling she was forgetting about something, she believed she was out.

”You sound as though you’ve been on a lot of adventures…” Lyanah noted, as she temporarily massaged the pain from her ankle, ”I would love to hear one of your stories…” looking up from her foot for a moment, she would set her eyes back on Jeska and grin slyly, ”That stew needs stirred for a good fifteen minutes anyways. If it sets for too long it will cake to the bottom of the pan and pretty much be inedible.”

A small giggle left her throat, and she returned her gaze to her wound. Standing at the stove as long as she had been was hard enough, there was just no way she could handle fifteen more minutes of it. Suddenly, the young blonde was even more grateful towards having the pirate around; an extra set of hands in the kitchen after so long was a heaven’s sent; even if that meant needing to make more food.

[Jeska Reignhart]

”Perhaps I am.” The pirate mused. Then again, perhaps she was overestimating the girl; there were no solid facts to back her up either way. If not for the injury to her ankle, Jeska might have even challenged her to something here and now to really test her out and see if her bite as a formidable as her bark. Another time. She took a mental note to challenge the girl in some contest in the future. A barbarian turned pirate, the redhead had quite the competitive streak when she wanted to and although she was unsure what exactly she would challenge the fit, but smaller girl too…she was sure she could think of something when pressed to do so.

When mention of stirring the pot was made as Lyanah tended to her ankle, a raised brow was the larger female’s initial response. Not because of the request, but because of the title used to address her. Doll? Another one she was rarely called even the time she had heard it, it rolled of the drunken lips of some fat bastard who was attempting to hit on her. They never knew they were barking up the wrong tree. Like a woodsman doomed to fail, fools only focused on the redwood because she appeared to be a viable target. If only they paid a little more attention to where her eyes fell throughout the night, then they might realize what they dealt with. More than once her fists had cracked men across the head for wandering hands much like that foolish woodsmen who did not check for branches overhead before chopping.

Regardless of the way she was addressed her lifted brow as only temporary before she turned to stir. From behind her she heard the girl speak up once again, intent on keeping conversation going. Jeska didn’t mind, she often spent hours talking with the Captain when they were alone. She wasn’t all rough and tough like her exterior portrayed; she just couldn’t have the crew knowing that.

”I suppose I could share, but what do you want to hear about? Slavers? A night full of the sound of clashing steel? Merchant ships stocked full of loot and taverns stocked full of wenches? I have no intention of bragging about my time on the seas, but it has been several years now so more than a few tales come to mind. So tell me, Lyanah, what interests you the most?” With the final words she cast a sidelong glance to the blonde. It was the truth, she had done much in her life in terms of what most considered adventure and if the girl wanted to hear about it, she best specific what she wanted to hear.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

Lyanah smiled as Jeska noted a few viable stories she might tell. In reality, any of them sounded pleasing to the young woman; she was not picky in terms of tales of adventure. However, there was one thing that the woman didn’t mention that piqued her interested more than anything else. The one thing that she wanted to know for sure:

”Actually, while all those sound very interesting…” she stated out loud, rolling her ankle in her hand with a wince, ”The story that I am most interested in hearing… Is how you actually ended up becoming a pirate?” Shooting the woman’s glance a shy smile of her own, she raised a brow in question.

Lowering her foot back to the floor, she leaned back into her chair and let out a sigh; although the pain was still fairly constant, it had calmed. Thankful for this Lyanah crossed her arms over her chest and gritted her teeth as she watched the redhead from behind; admittedly, Lyanah was one to woo over both men and women, and there was no denying that this woman had caught her eye- unbeknownst to her, much the same as she may have caught Jeska’s.

Nevertheless, admiration and actions were two separate things, and Lyanah, much too shy to react of such impulses, would say little on the subject, and keep it to herself. Perhaps if she’d been drinking she might make a pass at the woman, but without the boost of confidence the liquid fire provided, she was virtually useless…

Still, though… There was a nagging feeling at the back of her mind that she couldn’t shake… Like she was forgetting something… More specifically, like she was forgetting the booze she’d won the previous day in a wager with a certain tender; a large half-gallon bottle of the most high-grade liquor the tender had, ”Come to think of it…” she thought to herself, pressing a musing index finger against her lips as she pondered, ”There is no way I drank that whole bottle last night, is there?”

[Jeska Reignhart]

From the start Jeska had not exactly hidden her passing interest in the other woman, the scans and wandering eyes likely an indicator if the blonde had caught them. Whether she had or not was irrelevant for the time being. In many scenarios, like in a tavern or strange port, the pirate was far from reserved about pursuing her more…flesh based desires, but she was in Lyanah’s home. Crude and often more open than was probably deemed social acceptable, Jeska was not a complete animal and while in the home of her new companion she would not be so aggressive. Of course, if alcohol was to be brought into the mix such a stance might crumble. Needless to say, with her back turn to the woman, the redhead did not see her appraising eye.

”How I became a pirate… far less adventurous than you might think, but very well.” With her attention still on the pot, arm stirring its contents she gave a short recount of how she had become the woman she was now.

”In my younger days, I shared a home with my kin and like my kin, reveled in the traditions of our people. When I was of age I ventured out with the raiding parties, killing, stealing, enslaving and burning our way along the east coast. I am sure you have heard the tales.’ For the most part Jeska kept a level voice as she spoke, yet there was a slight dip when she recalled the reputation her people so often had. ”I admit it was a life I am well suited for, my size and bloodlust perfect for such a task. For years this is how a spent my days, thinking it the purpose for my entire existence. Whether it was fortune or not, it is hard to tell sometimes, I eventually found the tables turned.”

’Several years ago, our first raid of the season was a small city, fishing town….I cannot recall the name. The past year we had hit it despite the risk and found it to be quite rewarding. Busy port villages see a lot of goods, much more so than your typical collection of dirt and timber. Anyway, we hit it again expecting the same reward, but they were ready for us. Apparently they had hired a group of mercenaries to make sure they didn’t take such a loss again. When we rowed in at night, they must have spotted or heard our ship for as soon as we stepped foot past the docks they were on us.” Her stir slowed as she retold the tale, able to picture the night clearly.

”Naturally, we met them head on as is our way. Only a coward runs when he sees the odds are not in her favor. You might argue the coward will likely live, but better to die in battle than to catch an arrow in the back. All in all it was an even fight I admit, the group they had hired well worth their coin. Forced back to the docks, my brethren were given no choice, but to take to their boats. I did my best to hold the dock, but a well-placed club to the side of the head does wonders to break ones focus. I learned later the majority of my kin escaped, a fact I was told after I woke in a cell.” Jeska paused long enough to dip her finger in the pot, not deterred by its heat as she then tasted it. With a small nod she let it sit and turned to face the blonde, arms crossing over her chest.

”I spent weeks in that dirty cell, a thing built for animals really. The goal was to bring me back to a major city and sell me as a slave.” The snort that followed showed exactly how she felt about that. ”I can admit now that the idea of belonging to another terrified me. My freedom was something I had always valued…yet I had been taking it from others for so long simply for the fun in it. I suppose part of me figured this was some sort of justice, but as fate would have it I was destined to be saved.”

”As I sat in my cage a man happened by, a Shroudling to be more exact, Arlen. For no reason and with little explanation he picked the lock of my cell, letting the door swing open before he walked away. The act in itself left me puzzled. I could not understand why a stranger would do something so freely and without reason. I know now that it is just his way, but you can understand how unexpected it was at the time. I pursued him and he offered for me to follow him and leave on his ship, no strings attached.” Strangely enough the pirate stopped again, cheeks even looking a little flush. It might be clear she held love for this Arlen, but it was more like the love one holds for a family member and that alone seemed to embarrass the otherwise rough edged woman.

”I have been with the Captain ever since. I suppose you could say I saw the error of my ways or however that saying goes. It isn’t necessarily a less violent life, but it allows freedom and I do not take someone else unless it is in defense of my own. A good part of our crew is freed slaves. No one deserves to live in captivity.” A small shrug of her shoulders was the best conclusion she could give, not exactly a story teller by trade, but hopefully it was what Lyanah was looking for.

[Lyanah Vexforth]

Lyanah listened to the woman’s story as a whole, staying quiet to the very end. Having lived the life she had, she could sympathize with much of the woman’s story; of course, there were things she also couldn’t imagine. She had known that there were slaves, but never had she spoken to a freed one; nor had she ever heard of a man who risked himself to free one. To the young woman, the story was satisfying.

Noting the woman’s uncomfortable expression at the mention of her Captain, Lyanah couldn’t help but smile, giving her a kind nod, ”You must really love him,” she stated bluntly, an obvious, flirtatious jab to bring more color to the pale woman’s cheeks, ”I can see why, though. I can’t wait to meet him…” He young mind was made up, once her ankle was feeling better, she would set for Lands Edge, and find the Flying Popo. Hell, if she was feeling better when the storm passed, and Jeska was ready to leave, she might ask to tag along with.

Carefully standing, Lyanah made her way to the redhead, pressing in closely against her, cramped in her tiny kitchen, but not uncomfortable. Reaching beside her company, the young lady removed two bowls from a cupboard, and then retrieved two spoons from a drawer beside them. Handing one of the sets to the other woman, she would smile, and hold out her dish, hinting for the woman to serve her.

”You know, out of all the people in the world that could have come across me outside,” she told her, a light pink touching her dark skin, ”I have to say, I am very glad it was you…” She was being completely honest in saying this: Jeska was interesting, strong, attractive, and caring- regardless of how deep down she thought that might have been hidden. Already young Lyanah had come to admire her, she could learn a lot from the woman’s presence.

Suddenly, like a sack of bricks, it hit the young woman. A way she could repay the woman for her kindness, and the answer she’d been searching for since waking back up. Eyes widening, she set her, now likely full, bowl onto the table, and leaped off her good foot onto her bed. Sprawling out across it, her hands reached for her pillow, quickly tossing it side. Turning her body to be length wise across the bed, she jammed her arm in between the mattress and headboard. Tongue sticking out, her face pressed against the bed, she frantically searched for something for a few moments.

Then, without any warning, her expression shifted to a smirk, and she pulled herself back out of the bed, a half-gallon bottle of liquor in her grasp. Brandishing it to Jeska with a coy grin, she giggle triumphantly, staring into the three-quarter full jug, ”Oh, come to mamma, you beautiful liquid-fire you!” she exclaimed, scooting to the edge of the bed with it. Carefully standing and returning to her previous spot on the table, she set the jug down and eyes Jeska, ”I won this by beating some cocky-assed bartender in an arm-wrestling contest the other day,” she explained, ”I also won free drinks for a month!~” she added with a giggle, obviously proud of her rewards.
Pushing the bottle towards the woman, she beamed brightly, ”This is the best bottle he had. Its smooth, and possibly some of the strongest liquor you’ll ever have,” she was confident in making this claim, having sampled more than a fair share of worldly liquors in her short time drinking; even with the difference in size between the women, Lyanah was sure that it wouldn’t take more than a quarter of the bottle to get the two drunk. Turning in her chair, she snatched two cups from a space on the counter and set them on the table.

”But you know what they say!” she exclaimed, ”The only real way to get to know someone is to get them drunk!” bursting into a giggle, she shook her head; of course, she had likely been the only one to ever say such a thing.