Pieter leaned against the bulkhead as the boy raged and flung the rag. It struck the leg of the table with a slightly damp [i]splat[/i] and clung for a second before it fell. 

“Do ya think that we can’t take care of ourselves, Rohaan? You don’ get to be a pirate this old if you ain’t got vinegar. They’re a tough crew, aye, but nothing we can’t handle. Uban can shoot lightning and Wheel would eat a thunderstorm for breakfast and ask for more!” His voice softened as he continued, “I know the [i]Borealis[/i] is home, she is for me too. It’s not fair you’re asked to let strangers in.” He fell silent, thinking. 


——

Uban’s laughter, normally so welcome, made the hairs stand up on Hana’s neck. The sinking pit in her stomach started to overwhelm her, and she shakily sunk to her knees. She looked out at the empty sea around them- devoid of any friendly Elbish Expeditionary Corps vessels willing to step in and take care of the problem. 

It was just her, the crew, and a band of rogue Barizians. 

She could either help them, or she could get in their way, but she wasn’t getting out. 

When Uban took her by the arms, something in her caved and she impulsively flung herself around Uban in a tight hug. She held on for a moment, and withdrew, “You’re right. This [i]is[/i] what we do.” She looked conspiratorially at Uban, “So, how about we work together on making a light show?”