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this is the .txt version for compatibility.", "writing": "Love as endless as the azure waves.\n\nPrologue\n\tThe bright orange and crimson flash filled the night sky, the light amplified by the steady rain. The booming sound of the cannon met the flash in time to rock through the dark silence of the open ocean. The target, our target is the trade ship off our port. We managed to come up to it silently, using the fog as cover so that we could slip in their path and come ahead. Cannons ready, crew on deck, ropes at the ready. We gave no warning, we gave no heed, we would surely show no mercy. The deck of the trade ship shattered with a thousand shimmering smoldering splinters before they fell to the sea in a spattering hiss of rapidly boiling water on their contact. The crew panicked, they rushed about their ship desperately trying to get their cannons at the ready. \n\tAbove the deck, our proud captain stood tall like the statuesque figure he is. The rain pelted off his well worn black tri-corner hat. Pouring off the back to the epaulets of his slightly tattered naval jacket. Boots glimmering with the fresh polish and heavy rain. Pants mostly concealed with the long well styled coat that fit our captain so well. He opened his muzzle wide, the horse bellowed out “All at once!”. The first in command by the lower deck entrance repeated the command to the crew and in a spattering of lead the rain was not the only thing showering to the panicking ship. The sound was deafening, disorienting, and confusing. Every ones ears rung for a good half a minute after the blast. Our ship rocked back and almost knocked a few of the new crewmen from the deck. But we held fast, approaching quick. \n\tI looked up to the captain from the rung of the deck, waiting to throw my hook at the ship once close enough and be on the first wave. Then quickly looked back to the ship as I heard the sickening sound of ‘WHUMP’ I only had a brief chance to see the puff of smoke from the side of their ship, the shrill whine of hot metal through cold air. Then the shower of wood and iron before me. Those bastards actually fired back on us I thought, they hit us, no... They hit me... I layed on the deck, gasping for air. Staring up at the nights sky with our sails billowing strong. The first mate was the first one to my side, I could see the look in his face. It was far from good. I raised my hand to salute, sure no one salutes on our ship but it was a habit from the navy I can’t resist. Then... darkness...\n\n\nChapter 1\nThe love begins.\n\n\n\tI stood my ground, I held my sword firmly in my right hand, my left hand free to grapple at my opponent who stood before me. A tall cat, easily a few inches larger than me, and a year older. I snarled my lips to reveal the sharp teeth, my ears tucked back, my green eyes shown with the aggression and anger that welled with in me. He was my enemy, my life long sworn adversary, the one who will either take me down or I’ll take him down. That’s all that could happen right now. I lowered my body, a truly impressive looking wolf with a pristine white shirt with frilled cuffs. Sharp blue trousers leading into tall well shined boots. A vest over my shirt blew behind me in the wind along with the cloth tied about my neck. My tan fur blowing in the wind like plains of wheat waiting to be harvested. \n\tI lunged! My sword brought from my side, out wide. In a flash of sparks it hits the cats. We get close and snarl at one another. Bastard blocked me, but not again. I step back, and thrust forward, he dodges and strikes my blade from above knocking it to the ground. I quickly tumble out of the way, soiling my fine shirt. To my feet in time to see him coming at me and I drop to my butt, wincing as I kink my long tail but my boot collides with his shin. He tumbles over me and I rush to my feet. Coming up in the air in a triumphant leap I land on him, my sword thrust to his stomach. A gurgling groaning scream comes from my opponent as I sink deep into his body. I grin full of pride at his defeat. Standing up I clean the blood from my blade and begin to walk away only to hear the most horrible noise no man wishes to hear.\n\t“Jacob!” The voice rang out over the filed where we so valiantly fought once more, “Jacob Horatio Weeks! Come here, it’s lunch time!” My shoulder slumped as I raised myself up. The cat laughed, “I’ll get you next time Jacob,” he said while I offered a paw to rise him up. “You keep practicing and you just may Zeeke, but til then I’m the victor.” I said proudly and we clacked our swords together, the dull thunk of our wooden swords rang through the air and I turned to run back. The ground thumping through my feet and my ears slowly rising with delight as the scents of fresh cooked delicacies tease my nose as I approach my home. Standing in the door, my mother smiling and drying her hands with apron. I toss my sword by the door and slip a hug only to see that smile shrink into a scowl. “Look at your clothes!” She snapped at me, holding me at arms length to examine the dirt I’ve built up. “It’s any wonder I bother to make you shirts at all with the way you ruin them.” She shook her head and sighed then motioned me in where I quickly sat at the table.\n\tThe food was gone with in a few breaths as I quickly nourished my strong hunger then sat back in the chair with a soft burp. Soon apologizing I sighed and my mouth hung open as I licked my chops clean. Could there possibly be a more satisfied twelve year old in the world of 1726? I surely think not. After a short while helping with the cleanup, thanking for the delicious food I got the permission. \nSoon grabbing my cap and sword I ran out of the house, tucking the smooth hickory in my belt as I headed out for the shore. Climbing up the steep grass covered cliff I could see Zeeke already sitting up there. “Oi!” I called out to him, “OI!” I yelled again as getting closer, he finally turned and smiled. Scooting over I joined him on the rock atop the hill. The gentle sounds of subdued waves lapping at the shore of the harbor met my ears. As the wind shifted the scents of salt filled my nose and I drank deep of the intoxicating aroma. Sighing out heavily we sat there quietly, watching a couple ships come into the port of our island. The sun slowly setting behind the scene, filling the sky with maroon, peach, and auburn highlights in the clouds. Such a gorgeous sight, such a beautiful dream, and I knew above all else. I would be on one of those ships one of these days. Not sure, how, or what I would do, but I just knew in my blood that is where I belonged.\n“One day Zeeke,” I said in a soft tone to my friend, “one day I’ll be out there, and one day after that I’ll be captain.” A soft nod and a bigger smile as my mind filled with the imagination of my asperations. He nudged me with an elbow to break my trance, a soft laugh as he said “One day yes, you will be out there. I’ll be building some of the biggest ships. Masts as high as the mountains, sails as wide as the horizon!” He boasted proudly, “Able to carry a months worth of cargo in a fraction of the time. One day the world will thank the creator of the Ezekiel McTavish ship line!.”\nI laughed sweetly and nodded, “You build it, I’ll sail it.” I said and offered my paw to my closest friend, we shook with a quick motion and nodded. Looking into each others smiling eyes, I pulled him close and hugged. Our bodies lingered together for a while, enjoying the soft warmth and feel of the clothed fur. Then I licked the side of his face, making the cat scowl in disgust and I ran off home with laughter filling the air. \n\nChapter 2.\nThe Chance.\n\nA few years had passed since that day overlooking the harbor. Now I stood a fairly lanky looking teenager. Still having not grown fully into my body, but trying to hide it with over played bravado. I walked along the wooden planks of the harbor, my clothes looking perhaps a little too fine. A satchel held over my shoulder with my important belongings and a few changes of clothes. I was on a scouting mission, recon if you will. I needed to size up which one of these ships would be the best target. The most likely to fall to my desires, and I was on the right path. As I reached the end of the harbor two mighty ships stood. To my right, “The Lucidia” A mighty vessel with three masts, more cannon ports than I could count, a bloated cargo hold almost filled to the brim. A polished crew that bustled about like a well cared for machine. I had no chance with them.\nTo the left, “The Victory”. A naval ship of pride, easily matching the feats of Lucidia, but a ship of conscription, and enlisting. I knew they would not allow me in until I was 17, and at the young age of 15. That was going to be no feat since I’ve been pestering the crew since I was but a cub. I sighed long and my head dropped a bit. I took the hat from my head and let the warm wind stroke through my fur and tall ears. Just a simple tan wolf, no more than one hundred forty pounds of muscle, lanky, clumsy, a little shy and reserved. But dammit, I was going to do this. I had no choice.\nAs I turned, I saw a good mark. A smaller ship, easily half the size of either of those two behemoths but looking fairly well kept. Obviously well aged by the sun and sea, the boards were dark, there were barnacles at the hull, slightly moldy rope holding it to the dock. The crew looking as weathered as the boat, but that’s the price you pay to be a seamen. \nA slightly portly dog stood by the cargo being loaded, a cigar hanging from the side of his mouth, his tail hung still in concentration. His hands and arms looked powerful as the rest of him, as I got closer I could get a beter look. A bit of gray around the muzzle of this irish wolf hound. I took a deep breath and stepped up to his side, and in an almost yelling voice I blurted out “Crewman Jacob Weeks reporting for duty!” Then clicked my heels and stood tall, trying to come off as more experienced than I was. The old dog looked me over and pulled the cigar from his mouth. A loud and deep laugh rang through my ears, filling them with the blush of shame that I’ve screwed up. The plan seemed good in my head for sure.\n“Boy what the hell do you think you’re doing?” He asked sternly but with the laugh lingering it seemed almost friendly. “Why don’t you go run back home to your mother before her apron strings get wet in the ocean.”\n“Umm, I can’t sir.” I replied calmly.\n“And why the hell not?”\n“Yellow fever, almost a year ago. My home got taken by the governor for back tax, my belongings were taken with the forclosure. All I got is this sack, some coins, and a love for this ocean that you can’t possibly imagine.” It all came out smooth, I let it out cleanly, almost like a perfect con. Sadly every bit of it was true. \nHis gaze stood steady on my face, reading my words in my expression. A long sigh came out of him met with a cloud of the cigar smoke, “Well sorry to hear about that. But I’m not sure we need more crew, from the looks of it you can join the Navy in a couple months when they open the recruiting phase again.” The stern left his voice as he spoke, but I surely wasn’t going to give up that easy.\n“I don’t want to be a naval man, Sir. I can fight, but I’d rather run the independant cargo. Earn my keep, learn the trade, and build my own shipping line one day. Your ship looks proud and well experienced.” I said as I began to walk towards the boarding plank, a smile crossing my lips as I got closer to my target. I knew a ship this size would be more accepting to new crew, all the polished rigs wouldn’t dream of taking a kid like me. But this bunch... there’s a chance. “I want to learn from the best, the experienced. I want to give my blood and bone to them all. To show you what I can do. The navy would turn me into a machine, the brand new trade commission ships like that would keep me shoveling the livestock bins for most of my life. Nahh I need everything if I’m going to succeed.” My voice was ringing out like a proud speech now as I set boot to the plank. He set hand to shoulder.\n“Now you just wait boy.” He snapped into my ear, “That’s a fairly pretty speech and I’m sure your friends loved it. But just what the hell makes you think we need a new boy on our decks to waste our time having to learn?” \nA valid question, “Two reasons.” I said quickly looking over the ship from the dock desperate to come up with something. “First! Your knots are sub par. I can see from here you don’t have the ropes winding properly locked to hold your ship to the dock. One good hit from cargo or crew.” I paused as I said that and swung my boot through the air, landing it with a heavy wet thud to the sodden rope holding them to the mooring. It dislodged, dear god it let go! I was right! It fell heavily into the water with a loud splash. “And they are gone.” \nIn an instant the dog was barking orders up to the crew who retrieved the rope and threw it back to deck. I grabbed it to help the dog haul the heavy mooring line back and show how to properly lash a ship to dock. “And two, I’m free. All I ask in return for my deeds, is enough food to keep me alive, a spot where I may sleep when not at work. And a pat on the back if I do my deeds right.” With that, I stood there looking to him. He studdied me and I could see the thoughts churning in his mind. I didn’t let him doubt too long, I held my hand out and introduced myself again, “Names Jacob, or Jake, and I’ll do anything to get on this ship, Sir.” \nSlap! He took my hand... He took my hand! OH Dear god that hurt! He crushed it with his forearm flexing, fingers squeezing mine together but I dare not whimper. I bit my lip hard and my tail tucked in a bit. I looked to his eyes with my own quivering and he said, “Stow your shit below, and let the deck leader know that Roy said you’re welcome on board.” \nMy heart suddenly exploded in glee. My ears perked up, eyes out wide, fuck the pain in my hand I’m a god damn sailor now! I jumped up and grabbed my bag, i quickly lunged for Roy and hugged him with my tail whapping either side of my body in a happy wag. “Thank you, you will not regret this. And if you do, just ditch me at the next port.” I said and quickly ran up the plank to the ship before he could say no. As I got near the top I slowed. Taking in the sights of this mighty vessel. \nIt wasn’t the largest for sure, or the most beautiful. It couldn’t compete with the Barques of the other two ships I had surveyed. But this Bilander, this ship... This is where my life will begin anew. I stepped off the rail and my feet landed on the deck, a solid feeling wood, the soft sway of the ocean already teasing my land faring legs. I swiftly walked across the deck, from the stern to the bow, along the port and back across the starboard. Taking in the basics, the two masts, the sails curled up. The lines for how the sales were rigged. Where the extra rope was stored, and the barrels. I found the entrance below deck next to the open cargo hold where confused crew that saw me were lowering nets full of barrels and crates. I slid down the steep staircase and landed firmly.\nMy pack was tossed from my shoulder under the stair well and I approached a seasoned looking ferret to tap on the shoulder, “Pardon me, I’m looking for the deck leader? I’m Jacob, Roy said I can join the crew. Where can I find him?” I asked in my most polite tone. Only to have him laugh back in my face and say, “That’s me, name’s John, if you want to get to work. See those barrels over there kid?” He asked while pointing to where the cargo was being lowerd, “Go help get them in place. Then head to the kitchen to ask what they want, get the muck out, find me some wine, and then report to Roy to see what he wants from then.” He let it all out quick, I bairly had time to remember it all but I nodded swiftly and quickly dashed for the cargo hold. It was only one more deck down, so I jumped into the hole, grabbing onto the lip of the opening I swung down to the next deck. Two crew looked stunned and I flashed them a huge smile quickly saying, “Don’t worry I’m new crew!”\nThey just nodded slowly and I quickly checked out the hold, it was only about half full and mostly barrels to one side, crates to the other. I soon was up on the net as it landed to the deck, unfastening the hook and jumping down to grab a barrel and lift it aside. A sharp whimper as I could barley tip it to the side. Stepping back and ignoring the laughter of the crew, I summed up my courage, Pushed my weight into that barrel and got it on an angle. Then began rolling it on the lip of the barrel over the deck to join the rest. No one else reached for the cargo, it was only them watching me. The heat of the day soon getting to me, the shirt and vest were lost and I worked there bare torso. A few men seemed to take extra attention at this, but I payed them no need as I worked my hot panting body as hard as I could to get these barrels in place. The crates thankfully filled with veg, not the grain and potato of barrel were far easier to get in place. I hooked the net to the crate, and stepped back. Victorious of the first fraction of my first duty complete.\nLoads continued to be brought down to us. I had proven my worth to the crew down in the hold and soon they were all helping. A couple more dogs, a tiger, and a curious mix breed that I couldn’t quite peg yet. No names were spoken, not much chatter was had, there was far too much to do right now. Soon we had the hold stuffed. The deck crew waved us up and the men crawled up to tend to other tasks. I had to find the cook and after some breif wandering, finding my way and memorizing the ship as best I could I found the galley. Close to the captains quarters, the door was wide, the insides narrow. Two counters on either sides, cabinets above and below. A stock of veg barrels to the back, and a stove that burned so hot I could feel the heat from the door. The cook had his back to me chopping away at some meat. He tossed some bones and scrap into a bucket. “Hello, I’m Jacob. John said I should report to you to help you out, and muck out anything you need.” I said simply, and the cook paused, turning to look at me. He looked to be in his fifties, a grizzled old canid of various breeds that you can only describe him as yellow. “That so?” He asked, and waived me in, “Well boy, grab them carrots and get to chopping, toss the tops in the bin and when it’s full. Get that shit out of here.” \nI sighed and nodded, “You got it.” Then got to work, glad he seemed a bit more friendly than some of the others I’ve met. Grabbing a knife, and a cloth, I wiped the dust from my paws and started cutting. Carefully and slowly, trying to make even circles. It took me probably a good twenty minutes to get through about ten carrots. He laughed softly and shook his head, “Well at least you didn’t cut yourself.” He said and grabbed everything I’d cut and dropped it into the pot, finding the muck bucket still half full he pointed me at a barrel of onions. “Grab five, peel, and dice.” He ordered kindly, and I stepped over. Grabbing five and heading back to the counter. I fumbled and struggled to get the peels free. He shoved me out of the way and showed me how to do it. Cutting them in half and peeling it back easily, the fumes stung my eyes but I cared not. Following his motions I had them all peeled. Then as i brought knife to veg I paused, “Umm... Diced?” I asked simply and he pushed me to the side again. No words spoken as he showed me how to work the knife and get the onions into small pieces. I nodded and tried to repeat.\nNo where near as precise as him, but not horrible. I had the job done. My eyes red and leaking, my nose running a bit. Wiping my face with the cloth I let out a soft cough that was met with his laughter. Shoving a cup to my chest he said, “Not bad kid, now drink, get that stuff up, and get back here.” I grinned and took a big gulp of the glass, my thirst was great, and soon so was my pain. My chest erupted in fire, and I coughed sharply. Spilling a bit of the contents I looked at it in shock. His laughter rang through the small kitchen and said, “Don’t worry, you’ll learn to love rum out here.” And slapped me on the back so hard I stepped forward to the counter. Setting the cup down I sputtered a bit more and got my composure back. Wincing and rubbing at my throat as I moved to the bucket. “HAhhfhf thanks.” I wheezed, and took hold of the bucket. Heading up to the top deck. I pitched it over the edge just as I noticed some port crew unfastening our lines. This was it I thought. We are sailing out. \nThe joy soon filled me again to stamp out the lingering burn of the harsh drink, I felt warm, relaxed, pleased. Oh ooh so at home. Then something else, a primal need, something that could not be defied. Nature yelled at me and feeling loose from the rum I pulled down my britches front. Held my self in one paw, the empty bucket in the other. Aimed it over the rail and left my mark on the port of Saint Sebastian’s waters as our ship began to pull away. A few deck crew hollard at me, i just shrugged, shook, tucked and headed back down to the galley to finish my duties with dinner.\n\nChapter 3\nThe first night.\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "Love as endless as the azure waves.

Prologue
\tThe bright orange and crimson flash filled the night sky, the light amplified by the steady rain. The booming sound of the cannon met the flash in time to rock through the dark silence of the open ocean. The target, our target is the trade ship off our port. We managed to come up to it silently, using the fog as cover so that we could slip in their path and come ahead. Cannons ready, crew on deck, ropes at the ready. We gave no warning, we gave no heed, we would surely show no mercy. The deck of the trade ship shattered with a thousand shimmering smoldering splinters before they fell to the sea in a spattering hiss of rapidly boiling water on their contact. The crew panicked, they rushed about their ship desperately trying to get their cannons at the ready.
\tAbove the deck, our proud captain stood tall like the statuesque figure he is. The rain pelted off his well worn black tri-corner hat. Pouring off the back to the epaulets of his slightly tattered naval jacket. Boots glimmering with the fresh polish and heavy rain. Pants mostly concealed with the long well styled coat that fit our captain so well. He opened his muzzle wide, the horse bellowed out “All at once!”. The first in command by the lower deck entrance repeated the command to the crew and in a spattering of lead the rain was not the only thing showering to the panicking ship. The sound was deafening, disorienting, and confusing. Every ones ears rung for a good half a minute after the blast. Our ship rocked back and almost knocked a few of the new crewmen from the deck. But we held fast, approaching quick.
\tI looked up to the captain from the rung of the deck, waiting to throw my hook at the ship once close enough and be on the first wave. Then quickly looked back to the ship as I heard the sickening sound of ‘WHUMP’ I only had a brief chance to see the puff of smoke from the side of their ship, the shrill whine of hot metal through cold air. Then the shower of wood and iron before me. Those bastards actually fired back on us I thought, they hit us, no... They hit me... I layed on the deck, gasping for air. Staring up at the nights sky with our sails billowing strong. The first mate was the first one to my side, I could see the look in his face. It was far from good. I raised my hand to salute, sure no one salutes on our ship but it was a habit from the navy I can’t resist. Then... darkness...


Chapter 1
The love begins.


\tI stood my ground, I held my sword firmly in my right hand,  my left hand free to grapple at my opponent who stood before me. A tall cat, easily a few inches larger than me, and a year older. I snarled my lips to reveal the sharp teeth, my ears tucked back, my green eyes shown with the aggression and anger that welled with in me. He was my enemy, my life long sworn adversary, the one who will either take me down or I’ll take him down. That’s all that could happen right now. I lowered my body, a truly impressive looking wolf with a pristine white shirt with frilled cuffs. Sharp blue trousers leading into tall well shined boots. A vest over my shirt blew behind me in the wind along with the cloth tied about my neck. My tan fur blowing in the wind like plains of wheat waiting to be harvested.
\tI lunged! My sword brought from my side, out wide. In a flash of sparks it hits the cats. We get close and snarl at one another. Bastard blocked me, but not again. I step back, and thrust forward, he dodges and strikes my blade from above knocking it to the ground. I quickly tumble out of the way, soiling my fine shirt. To my feet in time to see him coming at me and I drop to my butt, wincing as I kink my long tail but my boot collides with his shin. He tumbles over me and I rush to my feet. Coming up in the air in a triumphant leap I land on him, my sword thrust to his stomach. A gurgling groaning scream comes from my opponent as I sink deep into his body. I grin full of pride at his defeat.  Standing up I clean the blood from my blade and begin to walk away only to hear the most horrible noise no man wishes to hear.
\t“Jacob!” The voice rang out over the filed where we so valiantly fought once more, “Jacob Horatio Weeks! Come here, it’s lunch time!” My shoulder slumped as I raised myself up. The cat laughed, “I’ll get you next time Jacob,” he said while I offered a paw to rise him up. “You keep practicing and you just may Zeeke, but til then I’m the victor.” I said proudly and we clacked our swords together, the dull thunk of our wooden swords rang through the air and I turned to run back. The ground thumping through my feet and my ears slowly rising with delight as the scents of fresh cooked delicacies tease my nose as I approach my home. Standing in the door, my mother smiling and drying her hands with apron. I toss my sword by the door and slip a hug only to see that smile shrink into a scowl. “Look at your clothes!” She snapped at me, holding me at arms length to examine the dirt I’ve built up. “It’s any wonder I bother to make you shirts at all with the way you ruin them.” She shook her head and sighed then motioned me in where I quickly sat at the table.
\tThe food was gone with in a few breaths as I quickly nourished my strong hunger then sat back in the chair with a soft burp. Soon apologizing I sighed and my mouth hung open as I licked my chops clean. Could there possibly be a more satisfied twelve year old in the world of 1726? I surely think not. After a short while helping with the cleanup, thanking for the delicious food I got the permission.
Soon grabbing my cap and sword I ran out of the house, tucking the smooth hickory in my belt as I headed out for the shore. Climbing up the steep grass covered cliff I could see Zeeke already sitting up there. “Oi!” I called out to him, “OI!” I yelled again as getting closer, he finally turned and smiled. Scooting over I joined him on the rock atop the hill. The gentle sounds of subdued waves lapping at the shore of the harbor met my ears. As the wind shifted the scents of salt filled my nose and I drank deep of the intoxicating aroma. Sighing out heavily we sat there quietly, watching a couple ships come into the port of our island. The sun slowly setting behind the scene, filling the sky with maroon, peach, and auburn highlights in the clouds. Such a gorgeous sight, such a beautiful dream, and I knew above all else. I would be on one of those ships one of these days. Not sure, how, or what I would do, but I just knew in my blood that is where I belonged.
“One day Zeeke,” I said in a soft tone to my friend, “one day I’ll be out there, and one day after that I’ll be captain.” A soft nod and a bigger smile as my mind filled with the imagination of my asperations. He nudged me with an elbow to break my trance, a soft laugh as he said “One day yes, you will be out there. I’ll be building some of the biggest ships. Masts as high as the mountains, sails as wide as the horizon!” He boasted proudly, “Able to carry a months worth of cargo in a fraction of the time. One day the world will thank the creator of the Ezekiel McTavish ship line!.”
I laughed sweetly and nodded, “You build it, I’ll sail it.” I said and offered my paw to my closest friend, we shook with a quick motion and nodded. Looking into each others smiling eyes, I pulled him close and hugged. Our bodies lingered together for a while, enjoying the soft warmth and feel of the clothed fur. Then I licked the side of his face, making the cat scowl in disgust and I ran off home with laughter filling the air.

Chapter 2.
The Chance.

A few years had passed since that day overlooking the harbor. Now I stood a fairly lanky looking teenager. Still having not grown fully into my body, but trying to hide it with over played bravado. I walked along the wooden planks of the harbor, my clothes looking perhaps a little too fine. A satchel held over my shoulder with my important belongings and a few changes of clothes. I was on a scouting mission, recon if you will. I needed to size up which one of these ships would be the best target. The most likely to fall to my desires, and I was on the right path. As I reached the end of the harbor two mighty ships stood. To my right, “The Lucidia” A mighty vessel with three masts, more cannon ports than I could count, a bloated cargo hold almost filled to the brim. A polished crew that bustled about like a well cared for machine. I had no chance with them.
To the left, “The Victory”. A naval ship of pride, easily matching the feats of Lucidia, but a ship of conscription, and enlisting. I knew they would not allow me in until I was 17, and at the young age of 15. That was going to be no feat since I’ve been pestering the crew since I was but a cub. I sighed long and my head dropped a bit. I took the hat from my head and let the warm wind stroke through my fur and tall ears. Just a simple tan wolf, no more than one hundred forty pounds of muscle, lanky, clumsy, a little shy and reserved. But dammit, I was going to do this. I had no choice.
As I turned, I saw a good mark. A smaller ship, easily half the size of either of those two behemoths but looking fairly well kept. Obviously well aged by the sun and sea, the boards were dark, there were barnacles at the hull, slightly moldy rope holding it to the dock. The crew looking as weathered as the boat, but that’s the price you pay to be a seamen.  
A slightly portly dog stood by the cargo being loaded, a cigar hanging from the side of his mouth, his tail hung still in concentration. His hands and arms looked powerful as the rest of him, as I got closer I could get a beter look. A bit of gray around the muzzle of this irish wolf hound. I took a deep breath and stepped up to his side, and in an almost yelling voice I blurted out “Crewman Jacob Weeks reporting for duty!” Then clicked my heels and stood tall, trying to come off as more experienced than I was. The old dog looked me over and pulled the cigar from his mouth. A loud and deep laugh rang through my ears, filling them with the blush of shame that I’ve screwed up. The plan seemed good in my head for sure.
“Boy what the hell do you think you’re doing?” He asked sternly but with the laugh lingering it seemed almost friendly. “Why don’t you go run back home to your mother before her apron strings get wet in the ocean.”
“Umm, I can’t sir.” I replied calmly.
“And why the hell not?”
“Yellow fever, almost a year ago. My home got taken by the governor for back tax, my belongings were taken with the forclosure. All I got is this sack, some coins, and a love for this ocean that you can’t possibly imagine.” It all came out smooth, I let it out cleanly, almost like a perfect con. Sadly every bit of it was true.
His gaze stood steady on my face, reading my words in my expression. A long sigh came out of him met with a cloud of the cigar smoke, “Well sorry to hear about that. But I’m not sure we need more crew, from the looks of it you can join the Navy in a couple months when they open the recruiting phase again.” The stern left his voice as he spoke, but I surely wasn’t going to give up that easy.
“I don’t want to be a naval man, Sir. I can fight, but I’d rather run the independant cargo. Earn my keep, learn the trade, and build my own shipping line one day. Your ship looks proud and well experienced.” I said as I began to walk towards the boarding plank, a smile crossing my lips as I got closer to my target. I knew a ship this size would be more accepting to new crew, all the polished rigs wouldn’t dream of taking a kid like me. But this bunch... there’s a chance. “I want to learn from the best, the experienced. I want to give my blood and bone to them all. To show you what I can do. The navy would turn me into a machine, the brand new trade commission ships like that would keep me shoveling the livestock bins for most of my life. Nahh I need everything if I’m going to succeed.” My voice was ringing out like a proud speech now as I set boot to the plank. He set hand to shoulder.
“Now you just wait boy.” He snapped into my ear, “That’s a fairly pretty speech and I’m sure your friends loved it. But just what the hell makes you think we need a new boy on our decks to waste our time having to learn?”
A valid question, “Two reasons.” I said quickly looking over the ship from the dock desperate to come up with something. “First! Your knots are sub par. I can see from here you don’t have the ropes winding properly locked to hold your ship to the dock. One good hit from cargo or crew.” I paused as I said that and swung my boot through the air, landing it with a heavy wet thud to the sodden rope holding them to the mooring. It dislodged, dear god it let go! I was right! It fell heavily into the water with a loud splash. “And they are gone.”
In an instant the dog was barking orders up to the crew who retrieved the rope and threw it back to deck. I grabbed it to help the dog haul the heavy mooring line back and show how to properly lash a ship to dock. “And two, I’m free. All I ask in return for my deeds, is enough food to keep me alive, a spot where I may sleep when not at work. And a pat on the back if I do my deeds right.” With that, I stood there looking to him. He studdied me and I could see the thoughts churning in his mind. I didn’t let him doubt too long, I held my hand out and introduced myself again, “Names Jacob, or Jake, and I’ll do anything to get on this ship, Sir.”
Slap! He took my hand... He took my hand! OH Dear god that hurt! He crushed it with his forearm flexing, fingers squeezing mine together but I dare not whimper. I bit my lip hard and my tail tucked in a bit. I looked to his eyes with my own quivering and he said, “Stow your shit below, and let the deck leader know that Roy said you’re welcome on board.”
My heart suddenly exploded in glee. My ears perked up, eyes out wide, fuck the pain in my hand I’m a god damn sailor now! I jumped up and grabbed my bag, i quickly lunged for Roy and hugged him with my tail whapping either side of my body in a happy wag. “Thank you, you will not regret this. And if you do, just ditch me at the next port.” I said and quickly ran up the plank to the ship before he could say no. As I got near the top I slowed. Taking in the sights of this mighty vessel.
It wasn’t the largest for sure, or the most beautiful. It couldn’t compete with the Barques of the other two ships I had surveyed. But this Bilander, this ship... This is where my life will begin anew. I stepped off the rail and my feet landed on the deck, a solid feeling wood, the soft sway of the ocean already teasing my land faring legs. I swiftly walked across the deck, from the stern to the bow, along the port and back across the starboard. Taking in the basics, the two masts, the sails curled up. The lines for how the sales were rigged. Where the extra rope was stored, and the barrels. I found the entrance below deck next to the open cargo hold where confused crew that saw me were lowering nets full of barrels and crates. I slid down the steep staircase and landed firmly.
My pack was tossed from my shoulder under the stair well and I approached a seasoned looking ferret to tap on the shoulder, “Pardon me, I’m looking for the deck leader? I’m Jacob, Roy said I can join the crew. Where can I find him?” I asked in my most polite tone. Only to have him laugh back in my face and say, “That’s me, name’s John, if you want to get to work. See those barrels over there kid?” He asked while pointing to where the cargo was being lowerd, “Go help get them in place. Then head to the kitchen to ask what they want, get the muck out, find me some wine, and then report to Roy to see what he wants from then.” He let it all out quick, I bairly had time to remember it all but I nodded swiftly and quickly dashed for the cargo hold. It was only one more deck down, so I jumped into the hole, grabbing onto the lip of the opening I swung down to the next deck. Two crew looked stunned and I flashed them a huge smile quickly saying, “Don’t worry I’m new crew!”
They just nodded slowly and I quickly checked out the hold, it was only about half full and mostly barrels to one side, crates to the other. I soon was up on the net as it landed to the deck, unfastening the hook and jumping down to grab a barrel and lift it aside. A sharp whimper as I could barley tip it to the side. Stepping back and ignoring the laughter of the crew, I summed up my courage, Pushed my weight into that barrel and got it on an angle. Then began rolling it on the lip of the barrel over the deck to join the rest. No one else reached for the cargo, it was only them watching me. The heat of the day soon getting to me, the shirt and vest were lost and I worked there bare torso. A few men seemed to take extra attention at this, but I payed them no need as I worked my hot panting body as hard as I could to get these barrels in place. The crates thankfully filled with veg, not the grain and potato of barrel were far easier to get in place. I hooked the net to the crate, and stepped back. Victorious of the first fraction of my first duty complete.
Loads continued to be brought down to us. I had proven my worth to the crew down in the hold and soon they were all helping. A couple more dogs, a tiger, and a curious mix breed that I couldn’t quite peg yet. No names were spoken, not much chatter was had, there was far too much to do right now. Soon we had the hold stuffed. The deck crew waved us up and the men crawled up to tend to other tasks. I had to find the cook and after some breif wandering, finding my way and memorizing the ship as best I could I found the galley. Close to the captains quarters, the door was wide, the insides narrow. Two counters on either sides, cabinets above and below. A stock of veg barrels to the back, and a stove that burned so hot I could feel the heat from the door. The cook had his back to me chopping away at some meat. He tossed some bones and scrap into a bucket. “Hello, I’m Jacob. John said I should report to you to help you out, and muck out anything you need.” I said simply, and the cook paused, turning to look at me. He looked to be in his fifties, a grizzled old canid of various breeds that you can only describe him as yellow. “That so?” He asked, and waived me in, “Well boy, grab them carrots and get to chopping, toss the tops in the bin and when it’s full. Get that shit out of here.”
I sighed and nodded, “You got it.” Then got to work, glad he seemed a bit more friendly than some of the others I’ve met. Grabbing a knife, and a cloth, I wiped the dust from my paws and started cutting. Carefully and slowly, trying to make even circles. It took me probably a good twenty minutes to get through about ten carrots. He laughed softly and shook his head, “Well at least you didn’t cut yourself.” He said and grabbed everything I’d cut and dropped it into the pot, finding the muck bucket still half full he pointed me at a barrel of onions. “Grab five, peel, and dice.” He ordered kindly, and I stepped over. Grabbing five and heading back to the counter. I fumbled and struggled to get the peels free. He shoved me out of the way and showed me how to do it. Cutting them in half and peeling it back easily, the fumes stung my eyes but I cared not. Following his motions I had them all peeled. Then as i brought knife to veg I paused, “Umm... Diced?” I asked simply and he pushed me to the side again. No words spoken as he showed me how to work the knife and get the onions into small pieces. I nodded and tried to repeat.
No where near as precise as him, but not horrible. I had the job done. My eyes red and leaking, my nose running a bit. Wiping my face with the cloth I let out a soft cough that was met with his laughter. Shoving a cup to my chest he said, “Not bad kid, now drink, get that stuff up, and get back here.” I grinned and took a big gulp of the glass, my thirst was great, and soon so was my pain. My chest erupted in fire, and I coughed sharply. Spilling a bit of the contents I looked at it in shock. His laughter rang through the small kitchen and said, “Don’t worry, you’ll learn to love rum out here.” And slapped me on the back so hard I stepped forward to the counter. Setting the cup down I sputtered a bit more and got my composure back. Wincing and rubbing at my throat as I moved to the bucket. “HAhhfhf thanks.” I wheezed, and took hold of the bucket. Heading up to the top deck. I pitched it over the edge just as I noticed some port crew unfastening our lines. This was it I thought. We are sailing out.
The joy soon filled me again to stamp out the lingering burn of the harsh drink, I felt warm, relaxed, pleased. Oh ooh so at home. Then something else, a primal need, something that could not be defied. Nature yelled at me and feeling loose from the rum I pulled down my britches front. Held my self in one paw, the empty bucket in the other. Aimed it over the rail and left my mark on the port of Saint Sebastian’s waters as our ship began to pull away. A few deck crew hollard at me, i just shrugged, shook, tucked and headed back down to the galley to finish my duties with dinner.

Chapter 3
The first night.
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