Black Ninja

Pirate X-Over: The Mysteries Of 'Black' { Ninja & Angel }

Will shot a glance at the quartermaster. What had he meant by that? "Yes," he said a bit wearily. Had she been lying to him the whole time? Concern about Vivienne keeping her end of the bargain came back up again. Will almost marched right back into her cabin to demand an answer from her. But he restrained himself. Perhaps there was more to it. She did seem a bit...subdued slightly and genuine. But then again, no doubt as a woman pirate, she had to learn how to convince others of something - whether truthfully or not. He just hoped he wasn't being suckered in by her.

His eyes narrowed slightly at the comment. She made deals huh? Part of him felt a bit of smugness that he was the one who orchestrated the deal. But part of him wondered if that too had been a slight manipulation. "Lady of the Night, huh?" That brought up some images into Will's mind. The term itself was not something that most women probably wanted to be referred as. At least no respectable woman. But he wasn't here to judge or even comment on her promiscuity or whatever. He just wanted to get Abigail back and leave it at that. He was curious but he didn't feel right asking: "who is she then?" from the quartermaster.

There was definitely more than what he thought but how did the guy even know what he was thinking? Of course Vivienne probably had dimensions to her that he hadn't considered. People were not two dimensional. Every person had layers. Some were more easier to see, others more difficult. But there was always some method to them. He was interested in hearing what this man had to say and what it would reveal about Vivienne.

Looking out over the ocean he decided to hold off for the moment. Wait and observe. That would be best.

~ ~ ~

Ducking his head, Jim went down to the galley. "Cap'n like somethin' to eat." He told the cook.

The man nodded and quickly put something together. Despite them being pirates, they all had respect for their captain. The food the man put together was some of the better stuff that they had.

Legs far used to the sea by now, Jim had no trouble bringing the food back. He set it before the captain. He checked to see if there was anything else before backing out. She needed some privacy right now and he would give it to her. Going to the other side of the deck. He watched John and the stranger from the corner of his eye. He didn't let the man out of his sight. He didn't trust him.

The Orb of Mysticism - 1x1 RP between May and Black Ninja

Fredericks looked indignant. "Fixing the ship," he retorted forcing himself to watch his language. What did she think he was doin', just lazying around? He was a bit furious and annoyed that she pretty much insinuated very close to what he had been doing. "I've been working hard to get it up and running in time for your father." His eyes went back to Estella. They took her in, having lewdly and have in disgust. It was obvious he didn't want her here. However, when Rebeca spoke up, he didn't protest. There was no way he was going to talk to the captain. The girl was right, he would probably not be in a good mood. Not that it was His fault. No. It was the darn ship's fault. And the captain's. And this girl.

"No I'll make do." His voice lowered slightly. "Hopefully she won't cause any more trouble." And at least she did have a sort of feminine beauty - not much but some. It was hard to tell in her clothes.

He watched as Rebeca walked out of the room before turning to the girl. "Alright, I don't have a lot of time to waste training you. So I hope you know what your doing."

Probably more than he did. No, that wasn't fair. Estella kept her face calm. "I'm a quick study," she said humbly.

He smirked. Right. "Fine, I need you to take apart that section right there. Don't lose any pieces." He ordered.

Estella frowned slightly. It made no sense. "What's exactly wrong with the ship?" She asked. She'd rather understand what was off before they made even larger mess.

"Don't question, just obey."

Despite her patience even Estella winced slightly at the harshness. Patience. Endurance. She forced a smile. "Alright. Anything in particular I should..."

"Just do it. I'll let you know." Fredericks snapped.

~ ~ ~

For a brief moment, Roger let himself think about it. Trade school were usually expensive and very time consuming. You could technically apprentice with little money but basically you'd be working for several years straight without much of a holiday. As much as he wouldn't mind, it would mean he wouldn't be able to take any trips with Bea. And he had made a promise on Dr. Brown's grave that he'd watch over her. Not that she needed it much. She was very intelligent and beautiful young woman. But still... there were people out there who could hurt her. And that wasn't counting those who had killed her father. Roger wouldn't interfere with her life but he wanted to be there to step in if need be to help.

Still... learning a trade. Being able to craft something with his hands, learning right alongside a master. It was fascinating and would be interesting. And he knew what trade he'd like to do: carpentry. It might be considered a bit old fashioned compared to a lot of other things but there was something about the grain of wood, the feel of it against his hands, the feeling of crafting something from it - not that he had before, he whittled but not much more - but the combinations of all that fascinated him.

He knew he would need to learn something, eventually. He couldn't be a dock worker all his life or move from job to job. Eventually he would have a family, settle down, and they would need supporting. He wouldn't ask his wife to constantly move as he looked for work or to put up with bare wages. It wouldn't be right.

Oblivious to the blush on Bea's face, he snapped back to reality at her comment. "It's a thought," he replied. "I do like carpentry." He shrugged. "Maybe eventually. Who knows. But then again, most masters look for someone a bit younger." He turned the conversation back to her. "So have you figured out what you'd do after graduation?"

Pirate X-Over: The Mysteries Of 'Black' { Ninja & Angel }

The man's grip was firm but not aggressive. Will had half expected the man to test his strength but other than the firm grasp, the man seemed content. That was interesting. The accent was also another interesting thing to note. The man was not from here nor native Britain, though his English was impeccable. One of the many English colonies?

At the man's question, the brief thought of why the man should know crossed Will's mind but he dismissed it. No doubt Vivienne would tell him anyway and besides, it wasn't really a secret. Nor did he care to make it one. Though, it was very interesting again that Vivienne was the captain of this whole crew. For that he had a bit of admiration for her. It must be hard trying to get pirates to listen to you in general, but as a woman? And then have them follow your leadership? He was impressed. He looked at the quartermaster. "We had an arrangement," he said. "A cousin of a dear friend was kidnapped last night. She has agreed to help me rescue the girl - assuming she's alive." His gaze looked out briefly over the ocean. His jaw tightened slightly.

Despite the fact they had known each other for some time, Will didn't really think of Abigail and himself as friends. They were acquaintances with a mutual friend. Still, he would go around the world if need be to rescue her. Even if she was dead by time he got there or worse... Even though he would rescue a damsel in distress, the real reason - if he was honest with himself - that he was pushing so hard to rescue her was for Elizabeth. In a way, it would be his last gift to her.

He looked back at John. "Basically, that's about sums it up. I helped her, she helps me. Mutual agreement."

~ ~ ~

It was not just a scratch and it hadn't been attended to. Jim knew better than to take the bottle from the captain. He wasn't that brave - or stupid. So letting her drink, he quickly cleansed her wound, bringing some water and another bottle of rum. His hands shook just slightly as he touched her thigh. He hoped she didn't notice as he forced them to remain still. The proximity of her body to him and the fact he was touching her sent fire through his blood.

However, he remained calm, not making eye contact for fear he would give something away, forcing his hands to remain still, knowing that his cheeks were a bit red. Still, he managed to clean up her wound. Binding it he rose and quickly turned. "Will you be needin' anythin' else Cap'n?" He inquired. "Somethin' to eat perhaps?"

The Orb of Mysticism - 1x1 RP between May and Black Ninja

Estella didn't mind at all. She rose and followed Rebeca. "No problem at all. That's why I'm here. Let's see what we can do." Again she was glad Rebeca led. The corridors all looked the same. The twists and turns. She'd undoubtedly would have got turned around a time or two. It brought a slight smile of amusement at herself. She wasn't beyond laughing at herself. It was either that or cry in frustration. Estella had decided on the former. Life could be hard but you couldn't let it get you down. You had to push back and keep going. Otherwise, life would just come down on you and crush what joy you had. And that was something she wouldn't allow.

The smile vanished from her face as she stepped into the engine room, her face showing extreme shock. "Oy gevalt." The Yiddish words slipped out unchecked as she saw the mess. What on earth had the mechanic done? It looked like half the engine had been taken apart and set about. Had the ship been that damaged?

The mechanic looked up from whatever he was doing. He smiled upon seeing Rebeca, the smile quickly changing to a slight scowl as he saw Estella. "What's she doing here?" He practically demanded. He rose and moved forward. "I didn't order any other parts."

"No but apparently something's wrong." Estella replied calmly. She didn't seem impacted by the scowl or the fact he didn't want her there. In fact, she still seemed a bit surprised at how bad the engine room looked. This would take...this was going to take awhile. Not that she was complaining it was just... she didn't anticipate from what Rebeca said that it would be this bad. Oh well. Roll up your sleeves as her mother would say.

~ ~ ~

Roger nodded. "A break might be good. No sense in rushing it. You still have a plenty of time ahead of you." He gave her a smile as they started eating. It was very impressive and he was proud of her. One more class and she would be one of the few with a Masters. Something that very few men attained for and even less women. He couldn't wait to see what she did after that. No doubt, like her father, she would conduct her own research. The universities were still a bit biased and might not hire her - except for the fact she was the daughter of the famous Dr. Brown. But either way, he knew she'd be fine.

He chuckled at her comment. Not in mockery or anything just amusement. "No. Not me. Eighth grade education is probably good enough for what I do. Besides, book examinations and I really don't get along." He shrugged. He didn't mind. There was plenty of work he could do without going to a university. Though, trade school or apprenticeship might be interesting.

He sat back and shrugged. "I don't know. I like working with my hands. I don't mind books - you know that," he did read, not a lot but he did read some. "But I like the accomplished feeling of making or building something from my body and not so much my mind, you know? There's a sense of pride in doing something that brings sweat to your brow and makes you physically tired." He laughed. "I know, it's crazy."

Crazy but something he enjoyed. Even security guard had a sense of accomplishment. You went in at times and broke up fights. Which meant you sometimes ended up in one yourself. Though he wasn't overly bulky, Roger was strong and solid. Plus he had that look about him that made even some larger men think twice about getting in a fight with him. Not that he went looking for fights but he didn't shy away either.

He took a drink and looked at Bea. "Would you rather I go to school?" He asked curious.

Pirate X-Over: The Mysteries Of 'Black' { Ninja & Angel }

Will glanced over at the man. "It is." Plain. Simple. Nothing more, nothing less. It was surprisingly refreshing. The man wasn't arrogant in the way he said it. It wasn't said "It is" as annoyance. No. In a way it left things open yet at the same time let it end there if Will decided to let it go. It basically left the conversation in his court.

The man was young - not young like the boy but still fairly young, in his prime. His hair was a bit curly and hung down to his neck. He seemed to have a slight easy nature yet Will had no doubt he knew what he was doing with the blade. He seemed ready for whatever was to come, not afraid of it. He had an adventurers look about him. Why had he joined up? He didn't seem like one with a poor background. But he also didn't seem like a blackguard either. "The name's Will. Will Turner." Will offered his hand, introducing himself. He didn't know why he did it. Why make acquaintances with the crew? They were just going their separate ways.

Maybe it was the words that Vivienne had said. Maybe there was something that made him wonder. He had always seen pirates as evil. They were. They pillaged and plundered. His own family was dead because of them. But...but maybe there was something to some of them. Why did they become evil? Vivienne's remark on Jim, the young pirate lad, seemed to reverberate in Will's mind. What drove someone to piracy? Was it the adventure of it? Was it the wealth? Was it poor family background? Looking at the man in front of him, Will wondered if adventure was what brought him aboard. He didn't seem like a villain, but then again, maybe it was an act? For all Will knew this man would slit his throat for a mild offense.

Either way, Will was going to take advantage of his time here. Vivienne was right in some ways. Will didn't feel like he knew pirates well enough. He hated them and would never agree to what they did but...but spending the little time he would with them might give him better insights. And it wouldn't hurt. To know one's enemy would help in better defeating them. Knowing what drove a pirate could ultimately help in defeating said pirate. Besides, conversation wouldn't kill him. He wasn't going to ignore everyone the entire trip. They'd no doubt slit his throat and toss him overboard if he tried that. Assuming of course they wouldn't do that anyway.

~ ~ ~

The captain was drinking. That was never a good sign. "Cap'n?" Jim entered the cabin, glad the stranger had finally left. He didn't trust the man. The fact he had a sword meant the captain had a bit of trust in him. Well enough to let him walk on armed. Of course, the captain was also an excellent swordswoman. She had bested Jim the few times they had sparred. He always tried to learn from those mistakes and improve. And she was wonderful to watch. Her movements. The way she glided. Her hips. His throat went dry and he pushed the thought aside. He didn't want to go there right this second.

"Do you need anything?" He asked. His eyes went down a bit, as they usually did. They widened as he spotted the injury. "You're injured." There was anger and a bit of protectiveness in his tone. Who had done that to her? "Do you need some fresh water to clean it?" He asked.

The Orb of Mysticism - 1x1 RP between May and Black Ninja

Roger felt a twinge of guilt. He hadn't meant to judge and that was exactly what he had done. "You're right. We should give her the benefit of the doubt. I just heard the accent and thought it strange she was coming on board about the same time." He shook his head. "I shouldn't have judged. Will is a good judge of character. He can usually pinpoint a person done - at least from what I've seen. If he brought her on board than she's probably good. But you're right. We should still be careful. Even with the others. No point bringing them in on this."

He led her toward a small diner where they ordered breakfast. "So all you final examinations out of the way, how did you think you did?" He asked changing the subject. No point in worrying about something that may or may not happen. "That leaves how many more semesters left?"

Some guys would probably be jealous or feel insecure by being with a girl that had higher education than them. But not Roger. He was proud of Bea. She was intelligent and would do very well. Besides, he was glad she was able to follow in her father's footsteps. Personally, he was alright working menial labor jobs. He didn't need or want an education. Oh he liked learning. He could read with the best of them. But he was content with his life. It didn't mean he wasn't ambitious. It just meant he had different priorities.

~ ~ ~

It felt good that someone seemed to get it and not make fun of her. Of course, going through something similar usually gave people better understanding. The fact that Rebeca too felt lost at times, made Estella a bit relieved she wasn't the only one. Though she immediately felt bad. Pushing the thoughts aside, she returned the smile and followed Rebeca through the ship. "A map would be greatly appreciated. Thank you."

They saw the Captain but there wasn't much time. Not wanting to get left behind, Estella followed Rebeca knowing she can thank the man later for hiring her. She had no doubt she'd be seeing him more frequently.

Entering the room, Estella smiled. "No problem. It's nice." And it was. The last room she had on the Aurora had been really a closet almost. But she had been able to lock it - so that was good. This room, she doubted she'd have any issues. There wasn't people on board and she doubted anyone would try to come in here as this was also the room for the Captain's daughter. Nobody was that stupid. She had a feeling the man would toss anyone off his ship - no matter where they were - if they tried to hurt his girl. Which was sweet. Her own Da was like that. And her brothers. She hadn't had to worry about bullies with them around. Minus of course the teasing they gave her.

Turning her attention back to the room, her eyes lit with amusement as Rebeca tried to quickly clean up. "Oh don't clean up from me. After Rufus' store this is nothing." She gave a light laugh. In no way was there complaining in her statement or putting down the man's shop, just a simple fact. Unslinging her backpack, she set it on the bed. She actually didn't have a lot. She usually traveled fairly light. Not having many possessions meant less to worry about. That and if something was stolen or went missing, she wasn't that overly attached to it. Well except for a few things. Her most treasured things were usually kept on her. The main of which - her necklace - tucked under her shirt.

Placing the pack into the footlocker she glanced around, sitting on the edge of the bed. "Very nice. Thank you for sharing your room."

Pirate X-Over: The Mysteries Of 'Black' { Ninja & Angel }

Vivienne was a strange woman. Was she trying to be friendly? Trying to get him to see her side? Not that it would work. Still, her compliment surprised him. As did the remark about his father. Will didn't remember much about his dad but he knew that his father had been a great man. Strong. Courageous. Moral. It was something that Will wanted to strive for. He didn't admit that he almost agreed with Vivienne's assessment on him. He was a rule follower but there were times they were constraining. The very fact he was working with pirates to help Abigail proved that. But then again, rules were meant to help. Keep people safe. If the current establishment wasn't going to assist - in this case Abigail - than he had to do what he needed to do.

He studied her. It was hard to see someone like her having grown up a thief, forced to scrounge and survive. She was relatively healthy. Strong even. She was skilled with the blade, so that meant she had been practicing for some time. She held her own against him. And that was with an injury - not that he would admit that. She was a captain. But she wasn't that old. Maybe mid-twenties? Late twenties? It was impolite to ask a woman her age, not that Vivienne was a lady. Still...

"Interesting assessment." Will rose, not content to just sit. "There are reasons we have law and order. Rules bring firmness to a chaotic world. Without order there is anarchy. And anarchy just goes down to whoever is the strongest and most skilled. Basically might makes right." His hand rested calmly on his sword. "And that isn't true justice. That isn't the best way. In an anarchist society the weak and innocent usually pay."

He walked over to the window and stared out into the sea. The waves lapped against the boat. The sky - clear. The sound of the men on the deck outside filtered in slightly. Will turned and looked at Vivienne. "Are some rules foolish? Yes, I concede that. But there are ways you can work with it. If I had time, I would have found a more lawful way to get Abigail back. But as time is of essence, I don't have any to waste."

He sighed. "I think I'll get some fresh air." He turned and headed toward the door. He paused. Wincing at having to do it, he looked back at Vivienne. "Thank you for your help." It was difficult to get the words out. He exited the cabin. He spotted the boy moving slightly away. He remembered what Vivienne said and wondered if the kid was happier here. Probably - if what she had said about his past was true. Though he didn't think she'd lie on that. Moving on, he spotted the first mate by the ship's side and headed over. He nodded and leaned against the railing. "Nice weather."

Jim had moved away quickly but not where it was obvious that he had been eavesdropping. Once the man had left, he made his way back to check on his captain. Spotting her drinking, he winced slightly before knocking. "Captain, did you need anything?" He asked

The Orb of Mysticism - 1x1 RP between May and Black Ninja

Roger nodded to the girl beside Rebeca. He shook the hand offered. Her shake wasn't limp like a fish and actual had a slight grip to it. He noticed the bag on her shoulder. Was she another passenger?

Estella smile came easily. While shaking hands with Bea, she raised a slight eyebrow at the quick comment. Interesting. She hadn't even asked. She didn't catch the suspicious look. "That should be fun. Meeting with friends is always a joy."

Though English was good, her accent was evident. She was obviously foreign. Could even be from the Prussian Empire. Roger didn't want to get paranoid but it seemed odd that they were leaving for a trip regarding Beatrix's father's work and a foreigner just happened to be on the same ship as them. He picked up the slight suspicion Bea had as well. No doubt she was thinking the same thing.

"Well, it was nice meeting you. And seeing you again," he nodded to Rebeca. "But if you excuse, we're going to go catch some breakfast. We want to make sure we get back before your Dad's ready to leave. We don't want to hold him up." He smiled.

He waited until Bea and him were a bit away before glancing at her. "You don't trust her either?" He asked. "Do you think she's a threat?"

~ ~ ~

Estella watched the two leave before looking back at Rebeca. "They seemed nice." She looked toward the ship's doorway. "Uh you might want to go first. I'm terrible at directions and don't remember where to go. When it comes to a building or airship I am very directionally challenged." She laughed, not afraid to admit her weaknesses. Well at least that one. "I usually have to draw up a schematic to find my way around. And even then I think I've been turned around once or twice."

Her eyes held the amusement evident on her lips. A small part of her worried that Rebeca didn't take it wrong and immediately think they should find someone else. But she ignored it. It was who she was. Besides, if they were willing to bring in someone who hadn't worked a lot on an airship before than her not being able to find her way around wouldn't be an issue. Unless of course they felt like they were going to have to babysit her - in which case, would not be good. But, they wouldn't have to worry. Too much. She had already mentioned what she did to combat her weakness and a time or two of getting lost probably wouldn't bother them. Well...hopefully wouldn't.

Pirate X-Over: The Mysteries Of 'Black' { Ninja & Angel }

Strange way to look at it. Not everyone had a choice. Will wasn't so sure about that. He had been an orphan and he had made his way. But then again, he did have the Governor provide a bit of help getting him an apprentice. His mind went back to the young man he saw on his way in. Had he really grown up that way? He didn't know for sure but why would she lie? Technically, she could have said that to garner some sympathy but it didn't seem to fit. In fact, Will had a feeling that it probably was true. Not everyone was fortunate enough to have someone who could give them a leg up. The world could be a harsh place. Sometimes it kicked you down and there was no one there to help you. If what Vivienne said was true though, she had been there and given the young man what he needed. Despite the fact that she brought him into the world of thievery and crime.

"So you saved him from one press gang and brought him into a world where he'd get the noose if he is caught." Despite the words, there was no bite in them.

Heading over, Will sat down. He glanced at Vivienne. So she had met Abigail. In all honesty, he really didn't focus that much attention on Elizabeth's cousin. His eyes were on Elizabeth only. Oh he knew Abigail and remembered her but she was more of a minor add on that he couldn't even honestly say what color her eyes were. It was a bit sad but then again there was nothing wrong with it either. Except for the fact that this woman pirate seemed to have a bit idea on Abigail then he did. "Yes, Ms. Ashe does have spirit." He knew that much. Besides, she was the cousin to Elizabeth. She had to have some spirit.

The ship swayed slightly on the waves. Will rubbed his face with his right hand and then looked at Vivienne. He raised an eyebrow at her comment. "Empowerment huh?" He shook his head. "So we beat Low to this Nassau and rescue Abigail? And you believe she'll survive long enough to get there?" This was crazy. Why was he even taking her at her word? She was a pirate? Despite her talk, she wouldn't be in it unless it brought her something of value. And honestly, his helping her escape held no bearing now. She had a crew and could do what she wanted.

Deciding to bring it back to the topic of survival, he stared at Vivienne. "So was that what brought you into piracy? Survival? Were you like, Jim? Press ganged into it?" He was a bit curious actually. Besides, knowing her intent in becoming a pirate could possibly help him gauge who she was. Know one's enemy. That was important.

Pirate X-Over: The Mysteries Of 'Black' { Ninja & Angel }

Will refrained from a sigh and looked again at the map. He looked up sharply when she mentioned what it signified. "That's where he hides out?" He repeated sinking into a chair. That made a bit more sense. You would probably want to head there first. The odds of catching a ship on the high seas was difficult. There was so much water and they did have a head start. He just hoped that Abigail survived that long. He glanced over at the woman and shook his head, declining the mug of brandy. He needed his mind sharp - especially on a pirate ship.

He looked over at Vivienne, his eyes studying her. Her question hit a bit closer to home than he would like to admit. He rose and walked to the small window. "You're pirates. What is there to like? You steal other people's hard earned money, you raid, pillage, loot, ravish..." He turned and looked back at her. "The list goes on and on. Oh no doubt you'll claim it's just another job." He pulled the chair out and turned it back facing her before sitting down. He placed his arms on the back. "But it's thievery and murder, plain and simple." His posture remained rigid. "Look, let's just both stick to our agreement. You help me get Abigail and we'll leave you be to continue on your illicit ways." He rose, not being able to sit.

His words were passionate but there was a lot more than just the basic rhetoric. It was personal to him. And not just with Abigail, though that hadn't helped. He had hatred of pirates when he first met her. Long before that actually. He touched his sword hilt. He hadn't left it behind on purpose. No way was he going on a pirate ship without being armed. As it was, he was going to have to watch his back the entire time.

"And I know you probably don't give a care about Abigail." He turned and looked at her. "In fact, if you keep your word at all, I'd be surprised. But know that I'll do what I have to save her - including holding you to your word. Your crew be darned." He clearly wasn't the type that made friends easily.

From outside the captain's door. Jim stiffened. He didn't mean to eavesdrop. Well, who was he kidding. He did. Thankfully with the door closed, the Captain wouldn't see him. And from any other person, it looked like he was doing some work or other. He wondered if he should barge in and take care of that...that scoundrel. Threatening the captain. Vivienne. It made his blood heat up. He caught Silver's eye and nodded toward the door. Jim respected the older man and knew he wouldn't hold eavesdropping against him. In fact, though nothing was really said, it seemed he encouraged it.

"He's threatening the Cap'n." Jim whispered staying close to the door, but going over and meeting the man. He quickly recanted what he heard. Open. Closed. Open. Closed. The sun reflected off the deadly blade.