After the abundant excitement of the morning and early afternoon, Thomas was happy to set about the mindless task of loading the provisions that Dujo had ordered. With sweat streaming down his body and a smile planted firmly upon his features, Thomas hauled a cask of salt-pork up the gangway. 

If the crew had any lingering troubles from the recent execution of the traitorous Cooper, they showed it not at all. In truth, as Thomas worked alongside them, the men appeared as if their spirits had been lifted of a burden they had never voiced, or perhaps one they could not put into words in the first instance. In his own right, Thomas felt somehow freer now. All that had transpired had given new life to his love of the [i]Skate[/i], and those that called him their captain. The acts of the First Mate and Jax had particularly touched him, and even now he wondered after the pair and their whereabouts.

As for Antonia, his rogue, the thought of her caramel skin and grey eyes, shining brightly despite their hue, added a spring to his step as he descended belowdecks. It had been difficult to see her leave so soon after his proclamation of his devotion, but he understood her life and its demands. Being a shadowy figure required such prompt departures, and the promise of the night was truly all that Thomas required. 

[i]And what a promise it could be[/i], he mused, allowing his piratical brain to run wild for a moment with images of the more [i]dusky[/i] skills of the rogue he had yet had the pleasure to experience.

Thomas placed the cask down along with the other food stores, and stood to wipe the sweat from his brow. Around him other seamen bustled to stow the mountains of supplies that were coming in droves to the [i]Dusk Skate’s[/i] wharf. Satisfied like a proud father, Thomas began to ascend the short stairway to the main deck, when he was met by Dujo. 

The quartermaster was drenched in sweat, his features red from exertion. “Beggin’ pardon Cap’n,” said Dujo. He paused to take in several short and harried breaths. “I’ve got news.”