Captain Taggart stood in front of the room with his arms crossed over his chest. The room was filled with Pirates, Merchants, and a few Naval  Officers as well.

He cleared his throat before continuing, "I'm sure you're all wondering why I called you here today for this parlay. I am captain Taggart for those of you who do not know me. As I look around the room I see several of you I do know, some I have served in the Navy with, while others of you I have chased and hunted. Those of you who do know me know that I am a man of my word, so for the next two days until you leave this port all will remain neutral. 

Now let's get to the crux of the matter. I've asked you to come here with with a couple of your ship's personnel. I have brought my Chief Gunner's Mate with me, This is Chief Gunner's Mate Edwardson and he will have some things to say shortly. Before he does though I ask that you heard me out.

We have all heard the rumors of a doomsday device that is able to bring down air ships in a single shot. This weapon has been called a maser and I'm sad to say it is not a rumor. Chief Guns Edwardson will explain more about the particulars in a minute but the maser will be able to take out every ship in 500 yards upon it's detonation. This horrific weapon developed by an alliance between the French and Spanish . It cannot be allowed to be used no matter what the cost. If such a weapon is allowed to exist it could doom us all."

Turning to the man on his right Captain Taggart motioned for the man to come forward. "This is Chief Edwardson, who will give us a few more details on the weapon."