Thebes looked at his team, arrayed around him. Even though most had their visors down, from their body language he knew what they wanted him to say. He turned back to Rareth. “That’s generous, but it’s not what Mem would have wanted. He always hated anyone he didn’t know making a fuss over him...As is customary, we’ve fought in his honour.” Thebes gestured back towards the sim-arena. “Now, we’ll wait through the night, and toast his life with a drink.” 

Thebes looked around him at the Sacred Band; they nodded. Thebes pointed at Kjartan. “That means you too - no exceptions.” Kjartan beamed, glad to be included. “Ale and song, I look forward to it!” Thebes looked back between the two Rothians. “Although no one outside the Sacred Band is ‘invited’, we won’t object if you decide to attend.”

Thebes spotted Captain Andersen approaching them, flanked by two aides. He instantly snapped a smart salute, and the Sacred Band quickly followed. Kjartan kneeled respectfully, as was traditional for the Varangian Guard (and practical when holding a massive hammer and shield). “At ease. I was sorry to hear about Memnon, he was an excellent soldier. On behalf of the whole ship, please accept my condolences.” Andersen said, standing up straight with her hands politely behind her back.

“Thank you, ma’am.”

Andersen sniffed awkwardly, glancing at the Rothians as she considered how to phrase her next request. “I respect your Funeral Rites, as per our contract. But I saw the sim just now, and wanted to ask you to help train my marines. When you’re ready, and not on mission. I want them to be able to look to you for leadership, as a permanent fixture aboard this ship. Not only that, but there may come a time in the not so distant future you’ll need to work together, once again. I want us to be prepared.”

Thebes shook his head. “Ma’am, it’s an honour. But we couldn’t-...”

Andersen interrupted him with a wave of her hand. “I know you’re not contractually obligated. But contracts can change. Just think about it, Ok?”

And just like that, the Captain turned and smiled cordially up at Datius ‘Jharn. “Welcome aboard, Datius. I trust everything is to your satisfaction?”