Bring lots of ammunition so that you can take as many pirates out of commission as possible. You'll only be rewarded once the island is safely under the King's control!]]> Now that you've regained control of your ship, and there's only one thing to do: Take revenge on those who took your ship from you and restore honor to your pirate name. The mutineers are saling under the name "Los Renegados". Hunt them down. and destroy five of their ships.]]> Find his treasure and take what's owed to you!]]>
Coming home one day, you look down to read the headline of the RGX newspaper:


War: Invasion of the Kilikerian Empire! A spokesperson from the royal house, who wishes to remain anonymous, confirmed this news, telling us that the situation sounds more serious than it actually is. He advises a large mobilization of troops, but has complete confidence in his King, and assures the people that there is no reason to panic. They've got everything under control.

No rest for the weary, Captain. It's time to cast off: Duty calls!]]>
"We have to save our islands," says the King angrily. "Can I count on you and your men, Captain? Do everything in your power to stop reinforcements from getting through to the unknown enemy. There have already been 47 sightings of spy ships from the Kilikerian Empire there!"

All of a sudden the King's adjutant comes running in: "My lord, I bring you good tidings! The Kiribati fleet has been cut off and we have to act now! The King turns to you and says, "Use this to your advantage and teach those cowards not to mess with us!" You bow once again and leave the hall quickly.

It's time to destroy 47 Kiribati!]]> The disaster comes as you might have expected it.
You sail into battle bravely, but as you close in on the enemy, the mood of your crew slowly begins to change. Your blood freezes as you look up: You definitely weren't expecting such a powerful armada. Are your men up to the challenge?

You do have one strategic advantage: They haven't spotted you yet! With courage borne of despair, you say to your crew: "Battle stations, men, it's going to be a hard but glorious battle!"

Destroy 34 Kilimatu!]]>
Arriving at your home port, you look forward to a little shore leave. But what awaits your weary eyes? Smoking ruins, demolished market stands, deserted streets: In a dark corner of a rundown street, you find a cowering boy and ask him what the blazes happened. Crying and choking on his words, he tells you what took place: Mighty ships appeared suddenly on the horizon; and before anyone could get to safety, they started firing. The king was able to escape by the skin of his teeth, and was only able to bring a few troops and a couple ships to safety.

Who is responsible? "Kilikeria" races through your mind, of course!

You run back to the ship with your crew and the boy. Time is of the essence - you get your vessel shipshape as quickly as possible. The sails are mended, food and rum are hauled on board. You're ready to go. You set sail with your crew on the next morning.]]>
You've seen enough to realize that your carefully laid plans be useless. The new plan is much simpler: fight for your lives!


Defend yourself and destroy 25 Kiliwallis!]]>
Armed to the teeth, your entire fleet works its way closer to the city walls. A short whistle, and it's time to strike! What a triumph; there is hardly any resistance. It seems that all the soldiers are at sea with the Kilikierian Armada. You overwhelm the handful of farmers and traders in the blink of an eye. Frightened out o' their wits, they willingly surrender anything of value.

The King will shower you with medals and honor when you sail home and report that you captured the Kilikierian fortress, and that it now belongs to him.]]>
The journey home is far from smooth sailing: Heavy winds, dangerous currents and huge waves threaten your ship. Can she withstand these forces of nature in her weakened condition? You take advantage of every break in the weather to urge your mates: "Repair, men, repair!"

As if that weren't enough, sea monsters keep popping up along the way. But your crewmen are tried and true; they bravely master the thickest fog and unerringly skewer the orcas and other beasts with their harpoons.

Destroy 75 orcas]]>
What you didn't know - couldn't have known - because of your long absence: The Kilkierians have become allies of the King - your King! He's taken your attack on the Kilikierians as an act of treason! The Kilikierians didn't recognize you as ambassadors of the King because your flag was torn to shreds. Yours weren't the actions of a brave hero: You snuck up on the city, ambushed it and attacked innocent civilians.

Branded as pirates, you are all outlaws: Neither you nor your crewmen can ever go home again. You're outcasts, left to your fate on the open seas. But no time for self pity: The King's fleet is hot on your heels! It's now or never - time to strike back!

Load your cannons and destroy 37 Trinidad]]>
But being branded as criminals and outsacts seems to have awakened defiance in them. If they're going to be cast as pirates, then pirates they shall be! "Men, let's show the world that we've got what it takes to rule the seas as the most famous and feared pirate crew!"

The first step: Get your ship in shipshape condition. Full of vim, vigor and vitality, your men sing pirate songs, repair the sails and polish the cannons - whoever dares to mess with us will get what's coming to them!

With a fair amount of rum, you celebrate your rebirth: The Jolly Roger is hoisted, and the very next morning you leave your safe haven. A few cannon salvos announce you intentions: Every merchant fleet, every ship and every sloop that crosses your path will be sunk!

Destroy 50 Santa Lucia]]>
Hate runs deep in your veins: Every attack which robs the King of his treasures is good for your soul. On your last shore leave, you gained a valuable bit of information from a drunken old seaman who said that the king has planned an alliance with an overseas nation - an alliance which is based largely on the sale of raw diamonds.

And it looks like these diamonds are soon to be shipped. The King made you outlaws, you would risk everything to steal this treasure. The route the trade ships are to take is top secret - good thing there are such things as spies. Get the coordinates in the pub and ambush the merchant fleet. If you win this battle, you'll be one of the richest pirates of all times.]]>
After this battle to end all battles, you retreat to peaceful waters and give your men a well-deserved rest; wine, women and song, that's what they need most right now. During their binge, you hatch your plans for the future. A short while ago, you heard of some uncharted waters which are supposedly overflowing with treasures and adventure. The only disadvantage: The area is constantly covered by eery fog. The fog is known as the "Fog of Horror" - as there are reportedly zombies, monsters and evil lurking about in these seas. Those who enter never return. Are you ready for adventure, Cap'n?]]>
Luckily, your sturdy ship is better than most. You make your way through the Seafight seas and show no mercy to those who get in your way. You intend to reach your goal, no matter what! You're fascinated by the mysteries surrounding you.

You ignore your crew's absurd superstitions: "Nonsense!" is all you say. Dead or alive? Ghosts of the undead? You don't believe a word of it.

Destroy 75 Ghidora]]>
Suddenly, a scream pierces the fog. A scream the likes of which you've never heard before. The only human thing about this hair-raising noise is sheer agony, your crew are shaking in their boots. Suddenly, you see where the sound originated from.

An enormous creature of unnatural strength towers over your ship. Escape is no longer possible: You'll have to fight. And worst of all, this creature is not alone: There are hundreds, maybe even thousands of them... at least, that's how it seems. Destroy as many as you can, it is a matter of life or death!

Fire away and destroy 23 Limfirii]]>
What you see is astonishing: An island with beautiful rolling hills covered in rich vegetation and an abandoned sailboat floating calmly in the bay. You see a schooner bearing the flag of your king - the man who's now your sworn enemy.

You quickly board the ship and discover gold, mirrors, table silver - all in perfect condition. This ship was manned not so long ago. Cold shivers run up your back as you hear a woman scream.
You turn around and see - the king's daughter! You heard about her abduction a few weeks ago, and it seems that she's been held captive in this remote location since then. It's up to you now: The pirates who kidnapped her have spotted you!

Arm your cannons and destroy 85 Kiribati]]>
After long deliberation, you finally make a decision: Life is just too harsh at sea. You're constantly under attack by enemy pirates, and the Kilikierian fleet is on your tail again.

Destroy 68 Kokelau!]]> You've received a royal charter from the Spanish king: Sink all ships and leave no survivors to prevent the endemic from spreading to the mainland.]]> Tip: You won't be able to slay the beast with just a basic harpoon. The Red Corsairs have also been sighted in the area - but this time with more reinforcements. Find them too and destroy ten of them!]]> But that's just the easy part of this test! The Tortuga gang are a savage horde of pirates who terrorize the seas. They believe these waters belong to them. Perhaps it be time for you to show'em just how wrong they are.]]> Alas, on the journey home, your compass malfunctions, and you end up sailing towards Kilikieria. Suddenly, you're facing some new challenges. Will you be able to master them? Now you've got to face ghastly monsters like the monstrous sea snake Valocto and the eagle-lion creatures that is attacking yer ship right now -
There are tons of them! Your mate, a brave old pirate, has encountered them before and lived to tell of them. He whispers the name of the creatures: Zirkzeaa! A name which freezes the blood in your veins. One fine morning, you sight the towers of Kilikieria: You are close to your goal. The city's defenses seem strong, but not invincible. Be you strong enough to take over the city?]]> You shall need guts, pirate. And a strong ship with a loyal crew as The king is an enemy like no other. His marines use the strongest cannons - can you hold up against them? Clever strategy and sound instincts will see you through it! Only one thing can lead to failure: FEAR!]]> You must travel to an island where shaman dwell, who can create medicine from the neurotoxins of local sea monsters. What did you do to deserve this? In addition to collecting the medicine you must slay the sea monsters necessary to procure it and handle any enemy pirates that cross your path. Nothing is ever simple.]]> After the crowned prince seemed to have regained his strength the neurotoxin seemed to have gone to his head. He begins to implore you to rid the seas of all the most despicable bands of pirates. Seems as though he doesn't care for your own fearsome pirate status. Yet he thinks you alone are capable of accomplishing such a feat.
Unfortunately word of royal cargo seems to have spread. Having the king's son on board makes you an enticing target. Perhaps even easy prey. Arm your ship with all the weapons and ammo you will need in order to survive!]]> You managed to make out the flag on the ship of the kidnappers and know just where to find 'em. Find their fleet and be ready for action. Time be of the essence. The first ransom note has reached the king.]]> However, there's little time to celebrate with the rest of the pirate gang hot on your tail. There appears to be a bounty placed on your head. Hunting season is now open ... but this time you are the hunted. The ultimate Halloween celebration. How about a party game to liven things up? a strong offense is the best defense.]]> A dark evil looms on the horizon - an alliance of pirate gangs has formed a dangerous pact. A veritable armada of pirates are bellowing swiftly across the seas like a dark cloud. Brace yourself for trouble!
It will take all the cannonballs, gun powder and tactics you have to handle this one, pirate! Don't be a fool and arrogantly take this one on alone. Your survival depends on it.]]>
It's... ahhh... come to me attention that you're seekin' a missing badge. And so ye are! Well, I might be able to help ye with that, but you'll need to scratch me back first... by taking care of someone for me. No tears for this one, the dirty dog defected most unfriendly-like from my crew. Send him to the ocean's floor and let's see if I can jog me memory...]]>
It's... ahhh... come to me attention that you're seekin' a missing badge. And so ye are! Well, I might be able to help ye with that, but you'll need to scratch me back first... by taking care of someone for me. No tears for this one, the dirty dog defected most unfriendly-like from my crew. Send him to the ocean's floor and let's see if I can jog me memory...]]>
It's... ahhh... come to me attention that you're seekin' a missing badge. And so ye are! Well, I might be able to help ye with that, but you'll need to scratch me back first... by taking care of someone for me. No tears for this one, the dirty dog defected most unfriendly-like from my crew. Send him to the ocean's floor and let's see if I can jog me memory...]]>
Me?

I am Cassandra. It is my sad task to arbitrate on behalf of Team Gaia in the annual Battle of the Titans, every year, forever, until the universe itself is plunged into eternal dark and all things die. Even the gods of Olympos. Which they will. Don't worry, I don't expect you to believe me. No-one ever does.]]>
...Yes, I suppose my speech may seem somewhat old-fashioned to you - but I assure you, it cannot sound as strange as yours does to me. You won't sound very modern yourself in a millenium or two.]]>
No, I suppose I don't sound all that cheerful. And? Would you be happy if, every year, you were pulled out of whatever situation you were in to arbitrate among a lot of squabbling immortals, with no choice nor end in sight? Precisely. ]]>
They're made of a metal called orichalcum, found only on Atlantis - because it's magic-proof. Mortals can work it if they're shown the secret of it, but no god or Titan has ever found a way to counterfeit or change it, which means it's a cheat-proof token of victory.

I, and the Titans on Team Gaia, will use them to learn which mortal pirates is the most fierce on their behalf. ]]>
Your contribution of Solon's Coins, however, will end up on a counting-board to help determine the Battle's winner. ]]>
Your contribution of Solon's Coins, however, will end up on a counting-board to help determine the Battle's winner. ]]>
Like the Capricorn, you must prove your speed and confidence on the waves - visit the three places you will be given to complete this task's first step. ]]>
Your offerings must be plentiful as well: seek out chests of treasure. I would wish you luck, but you won't need it... not that you'd believe me.

Why? Because of Apollo's curse, of course! He condemned me to speak only truth and encounter only disbelief. Though that is hardly the only enchantment under which I labour. ]]>
I find myself coming to like you. That is unexpected. It has been many a year since I have looked into mine own future, as my fate remained unchanging for so very, very long. Perhaps I ought to do so again.]]>
I have considered turning my Sight to my future, but I confess: I fear what I might find. Not death, for that is denied me by divine decree; and not pain, for that I have had and will again... But I fear that my fate is truly unchanging, and will look no different to me than it did the last time I dared peer at it, centuries ago. ]]>
I'm sure of it. There is something about you... not just you yourself, but all of you strange, young, fast-talking, quick-ruddered pirates. You have a vitality, and a stubbornness, that gives me hope. ]]>
I'm sure of it. There is something about you... not just you yourself, but all of you strange, young, fast-talking, quick-ruddered pirates. You have a vitality, and a stubbornness, that gives me hope. ]]>
As you go forth now to grow your fame and reputation, prepare yourself for this task: that of the Manticore. Is stealing the barb from its tail still the test of a hunter? ...No? Do you not have those creatures in this world? Then to you, they must indeed seem like creatures out of madness itself! ]]>
I cannot say for certain that being near them is chipping away at the fetters of enchantment that hold me, but that is where my thoughts lead me. ]]>
Even as the Manticore's scorpion tail can bring instant death to its victims, so must you be as fast and deadly. ]]>
...No: I can bear to look into your future, but not yet my own. Have patience.

Let us return to the task of the Manticore, and take inspiration from it once more. It has a human face, you see, which might lead some to dismiss its maw as harmless. But that mouth contains three rows of razor-sharp teeth, constantly replenishing themselves - and the damage they can do is fearsome! Set upon a mighty target, and hurt it as badly as though you, too, had such fangs. ]]>
Now you, too, must strike fear to all who hear of you! As you have no trumpeting voice or monstrous appearance, you will have to do so in a more traditional fashion: with deaths, and many of them. Some day, perhaps you will be considered as dangerous as the Manticore! ]]>
Now you, too, must strike fear to all who hear of you! As you have no trumpeting voice or monstrous appearance, you will have to do so in a more traditional fashion: with deaths, and many of them. Some day, perhaps you will be considered as dangerous as the Manticore! ]]>
This next task is that of the Hippocamp. A team of them draw Poseidon's chariot over the waves - so, too, must you travel across the wine-dark seas, proving that you share this creature's endurance and swiftness. ]]>
I am certain you grasp the connection. No-one ever accused the gods who determined all of these tasks so many centuries ago of being particularly subtle. Except, perhaps, for Hephaestus - he who has done so little harm while receiving so much... ]]>
The future is truly uncertain for the first time in a great many years. We have a brief, shining chance to start down a path that could end this pointless annual Battle! Not, I suspect, this year... But soon! You see, the Olympians have promised the Titans that the winners of the majority of these Battles will be declared their "true champions" and leaders, worthy of striking a bargain with the gods. But without fail, each Team that lost the previous year has won that year's Battle, creating an endless equal score! And - oh! We have no more time! ]]>
...By your expression, I sense that it feels rather like a history lesson every time we speak, but please understand: the enchantments I am under require that I explain the terms of each Battle, each Task, and each step in that Task. If you are growing impatient, kindly try to imagine how weary I am of relating this information after having done so for centuries! ]]>
Forgive my weary sighs; every time this Task comes to a close, I am reminded of the ties that bind me, too, as surely as any steed to its chariot. Mine cannot be seen, but their magics lie heavily upon me nonetheless. They prevent me from finding my long-deserved final rest in the Elysian Fields; they prevent me from aiding those I love with this useless prophetic gift... they even prevent me from telling you very much about them. ]]>
Forgive my weary sighs; every time this Task comes to a close, I am reminded of the ties that bind me, too, as surely as any steed to its chariot. Mine cannot be seen, but their magics lie heavily upon me nonetheless. They prevent me from finding my long-deserved final rest in the Elysian Fields; they prevent me from aiding those I love with this useless prophetic gift... they even prevent me from telling you very much about them. ]]>
Charybdis was the monster on the other side of the strait. This is her Task. Like her, you must be unstoppable and unmerciful: even if yours is not the killing blow, ensure that the Titan you battle has felt your sting!

Meanwhile, Ajax is still working to buy us the odd moment of unobserved time. Be prepared, and be vigilant. ]]>
As for your more immediate purpose, it is similar to your last task. You must harm a Titan, but your sting must be ten times as painful! ]]>
This step of the Task of Charybdis requires you to avoid the sucking depths of fear and despair, to sail nimbly, and to pick your own path as best you can, to increase your reputation with Team Gaia. This is all to the good for us, as well. Your dedication could lay to rest any suspicion of us that may arise. ]]>
I feel privileged to have shared this journey with you. And I must thank you; I feel my spirits slowly lightening. I hope to see you again, whether in the next Battle or on the Elysian Fields. ]]>
I feel privileged to have shared this journey with you. And I must thank you; I feel my spirits slowly lightening. I hope to see you again, whether in the next Battle or on the Elysian Fields. ]]>
I am Ajax, the mighty warrior - you've probably heard of me. I lead Team Ouranos, and don't you forget it! The gods of Olympos themselves have determined the Tasks you'll need to complete as part of the Battle. The first is to collect fragments of statues of the Oracle of Delphi, before the Gaian faction can lay their soft little paws on them, and bring them to me. Why? Hah! Questions are for the weak! ]]>
...Yes, or boots. I suppose it is boots, nowadays. ]]>
Beat them back, and loot some of the legendary Coins of Plato! No, I've no idea why they're so valuable, but the gods command it! And believe you me: these gods, it's best never to cross. Not if you can help it. ]]>
...

Hush now, and listen well. I can only drop my mask for a moment. Ignore the coordinates you'll be given for this task - instead, I've written three different ones just here. Take it, and hide it! Hopefully I won't regret this... We're out of time! I can't say any more just now.

Well? Don't just stand there staring at me like you've just gotten a spear through the guts. Get moving! Onwards, to battle! ]]>
Do you know why Capricorns love treasure? Hah! Neither do I! Either way, now you're to go on a bit of a treasure hunt. Move along, now! Less talk, more plunder! ]]>
Stop! We have a moment's peace. Listen - these enemies can't be allowed to escape. It pains me to refuse you, but I can't tell you why - not yet. Neither you, nor anyone on Team Gaia. We soldiers are used to making sacrifices...

What are you staring goggle-eyed at me for? Off you go. Less backchat, more carnage! ]]>
Shh! We'll speak of the rest later. I can't say more just now... ]]>
Shh! We'll speak of the rest later. I can't say more just now... ]]>
We have a quick moment, so listen closely. These fragments are more important than you might think - for us, and for Team Gaia as well. I hope that Cassandra figures out how much depends on them... Only then will this eternal cycle end, and - damnation, the gods are about to be able to hear us again.

Enough slacking! Winch that jawbone shut and stop lazing aroud. Onwards, into the fray! ]]> And like the Manticore, war can be a mixed-up, bits-and-pieces kind of beast... From friend to foe, and foe to friend again - no matter the path, in the end, only the strongest survive. ]]>
Hmm! All's well, then! Next step in the Task is to go after the supporters of Team Gaia - as evidence, loot Plato's Coins from them. They're the only ones who carry those coins, you see. And if you're triumphant again, after this fight... We'll need to talk. ]]>
Hmm! All's well, then! Next step in the Task is to go after the supporters of Team Gaia - as evidence, loot Plato's Coins from them. They're the only ones who carry those coins, you see. And if you're triumphant again, after this fight... We'll need to talk. ]]>
It was by accident that I learned how the fragments of the Oracle of Delphi's statues can fog or clear minds, and it took long practice before I could use them to - well, it's sort of like conjuring up a fog-bank, only it works on scrying minds. It blocks the nosier Olympians, but their spies are never far off, so the Tasks must still be completed, to avoid suspicion. On that note, let's get you started on the Task of the Hippocamp, to make sure they stay distracted! ]]>
Most clearly, I remembered my last breath: the moment the Olympians came for me and brought me back to... I am not sure you could call this pale thing a life. They enchanted me, and made me the arbitrator of this Battle. I never understood why they chose me; I was a soldier, that's all. But we'll surprise them yet! Open the next treasure chests that cross your path, then return. If everything goes as planned, we'll be several steps further along... ]]>
But for now, softly, softly: open the next chests, and go on as before. The Olympians must learn nothing from us! ]]>
This year, we'll let chance and skill decide the winner! Go! Battle their Titans, and win! ]]>
The Olympians may start to worry, as the results they see differ from those they expect from either side. The magic concealing us is decaying, but don't worry - I will try and learn more. With any luck, perhaps even before the Battle ends, I'll - damn! We're out of time.

Hah! True warriors are as fierce as the Hippocamps, the warhorses of Poseidon - so get on it! Less talk, more ferocity! Or are you too frightened? ]]>
The Olympians may start to worry, as the results they see differ from those they expect from either side. The magic concealing us is decaying, but don't worry - I will try and learn more. With any luck, perhaps even before the Battle ends, I'll - damn! We're out of time.

Hah! True warriors are as fierce as the Hippocamps, the warhorses of Poseidon - so get on it! Less talk, more ferocity! Or are you too frightened? ]]>
...Charybdis! That was it! ]]>
This is how it is: the spell that binds Cassandra makes her explain the reasoning behind each Task (if you can apply that word to the whims of the gods). I am compelled to speak of nothing but war. The magic that gives us both eternal life of a sort is influenced by the Teams we arbitrate for, and everything is pre-determined. But here's a bigger question for you: who, here, are the true puppets? We'll speak more later, as soon as I can. ]]>
And yet, they continue to fight... Year after year. For millenia. On top of which, the Olympians cursed Cassandra and me with eternal life, to witness this spectacle. Something else is at play here - the Titans may be guarding a secret! ]]> I have only a moment. My smokescreen is dispersing again - but next year, I'll be more prepared! Then, we will meet again and fight together to solve this mystery.
...
Oho! What are you waiting for, lazybones - an engraved invitation to the final battle? Hah! Less talk, more bloodshed: let's see if you're strong enough to win this fight! ]]> I have only a moment. My smokescreen is dispersing again - but next year, I'll be more prepared! Then, we will meet again and fight together to solve this mystery.
...
Oho! What are you waiting for, lazybones - an engraved invitation to the final battle? Hah! Less talk, more bloodshed: let's see if you're strong enough to win this fight! ]]>
I laid her to rest, at her request - but with her dying breath, she laid a terrifying curse on her father. Every year, on the anniversary of his betrayal of her, he will rise once more to suffer and die again. I intend to honor her wish - are you willing to join me? If so, first, we need provisions!]]>
…Right?

Now we just need to take care of his followers. It will take time to defeat them all, but we shall not surrender. For the honor of Jökulhlaup!]]>
Should we succeed, then only Hålbert and his gutless gang will face the judgement of Valhalla’s finest. For Jökulhlaup!]]>
I've been doing my grieving on my own time, but just recently, it's as though the bandage has been ripped right off again. You see, Blackheart, Redtooth, and Silverblade, the scurvy mutineers who kidnapped my poor departed Sophie, have escaped the brig they were thrown into!

I need to find out where they've gotten themselves to. Blackheart's crew are notoriously fickle - start with them. Kill one or two, and the rest will start singing, mark my words.]]>
Blackheart is first on my list. I have a bounty out on all three, mind you, and more pirates helping to track the other two down, but I want Blackheart especially badly - and you're going to help me get to him, aren't you? I'll make it worth your while, never fear.]]>
As we all know, it clearly states that as a pirate, you may take "any possible measures" to avenge your honour if it's offended, and that you will only steal from other pirates if they offend you. And, of course, that "you may consider all other pirates offensive." Well, I do, and with your help, it's their very lives that I'll steal from them!]]>
I've been doing my grieving on my own time, but just recently, it's as though the bandage has been ripped right off again. You see, Blackheart, Redtooth, and Silverblade, the scurvy mutineers who kidnapped my poor departed Sophie, have escaped the brig they were thrown into!

I need to find out where they've gotten themselves to. Redtooth's crew are notoriously fickle - start with them. Kill one or two, and the rest will start singing, mark my words.]]>
Catching and punishing Redtooth is my most pressing priority - and you'll help me do that, won't you? I have bounty hunters searching for the other two, of course, and don't worry: I'll make this more than worth your while, too.]]>
As we all know, it clearly states that as a pirate, you may take "any possible measures" to avenge your honour if it's offended, and that you will only steal from other pirates if they offend you. And, of course, that "you may consider all other pirates offensive." Well, I do, and with your help, it's their very lives that I'll steal from them!]]>
I've been doing my grieving on my own time, but just recently, it's as though the bandage has been ripped right off again. You see, Blackheart, Redtooth, and Silverblade, the scurvy mutineers who kidnapped my poor departed Sophie, have escaped the brig they were thrown into!

I need to find out where they've gotten themselves to. Silverblade's crew are notoriously fickle - start with them. Kill one or two, and the rest will start singing, mark my words.]]>
I have other pirates searching high and low for the other two, but I most want Silverblade on the end of my blade. If you help me catch or kill him, I promise you I'll make it well worth your while.]]> Eh? Killed the Kraken? Absurd. If the best Commonwealth sportsmen couldn't do it, I rather doubt that you did. Indeed, I doubt you could handle even the overgrown fish course that's currently causing me trouble.]]> Do you know, a merciless, unwashed cutthroat such as yourself could go rather far, at my side... As long as you don't forget your place, that is.
I'm here to represent the Commonwealth in these waters. Must keep up the side, don't y'know.]]> But I'll figure out how to gain admittance to her presence, just you wait!]]>
Hmm - d'you know, she's well-known to have a soft spot for a certain kind of rogue... I should think on this.]]>
Don't suppose you could take care of another, er, sea monster concern of mine? They do grow them terribly large around here!]]>
You see, I've just learned that Her Most Noble Excellency has declared her support for the Tirries - they're the political party opposed to the glorious Whags, who have my loyalty. This rather puts a damper on my hopes of meeting her.]]>
Where there's life, there's hope - and more importantly, where there are Crowns to be earned, there's something for all of us to do. You should get used to using real money, oh Captain my Captain! Heh heh.]]>
I say, here's a thought: as my official aide-de-monster-hunting, it wouldn't be too far-fetched if you were to, er, "accidentally" sink a pair or three of those hired thugs in the course of your pest control efforts, what what?]]>
Meanwhile, I suppose I must investigate these odd claims of ghost ships - absurd, don't y'know! But there it is.]]> Heh, heh... You find me in good humor today. Your continued usefulness has somewhat to do with it - speaking of which, there's an enemy of the Crown to whom I'd like you to attend.

Hurry back once you've sorted that out: I've a proposition for you.]]>
Mind, it would help if it weren't constantly under threat from any thug to raise a sail. It's a wonder that Her Most Noble Grace dared move here at all!]]>
Mind you, I suppose it could be worse. At least it's not those lunatics from the Carolingian Free Party.]]>
You're to present yourself at the following location so that her majordomo may have a look at you and ascertain you're no direct threat to her.
Go, quickly!]]>
Perhaps, however, if she had a new friend to relieve her gloom - a certain silver-tongued devil with a thousand-Glitter smile, if you follow my meaning - she might look upon me with more favor.
Off you go. Good luck!]]>
Sir, I'm certain you'll take no offense when I explain that your provenance would be enough to have you tossed out on your ear, if I were not currently in need of a sharp harpoon or two.]]>
Nothing a bath and a shave couldn't cure, I suppose. And you've been strongly encouraged to dance to whatever tune I pipe, eh? Then let's make use of you.

Go to these coordinates. Observe closely, and report back on anything you see or overhear. Be discreet.]]>
I've already lost a husband to the Kraken; I'll be damned if I send innocent merchants to their deaths.]]>
You're proving a man of many talents... And yes, I suppose you may tell Mr. Murray that I said so.]]> You're just the ticket - just exactly the kind of rogue she likes.

Can't rest on our laurels, though, what what! There's still work to be done, Kapitanovich, for the glory of the Commonwealth!]]>
Just my little joke. We're hardly cut from the same cloth, after all! Damask and burlap, what what? No offense.]]>
I haven't much companionship in my life, other than the daughters of the beau monde - high society, you'd say - who are sent to me to be polished up before they're married off or sent out into the world. And were I to assign them as murderous a task as I am you, they'd likely faint dead away.]]>
Why?
Let's just say someone calling themselves an Admiral once cost me everything.]]>
You see, my late husband was a gentleman explorer and adventurer. He loved to go on expeditions to distant lands. He also enjoyed spending time in dockside inns, plying sailors with drink to hear stories of their exploits.
He met the Admiral in one such tavern.]]>
He financed the hire of a ship and crew, and off they went... Only to have a Kraken put an end to their adventure.]]>
I was in mourning, and not thinking straight, so I agreed.
The ritual bore no immediate results; I arranged for the houngan's freedom, and tried to forget about the whole nasty business.]]>
Have you heard of the Tomb of the Drowned? Well, my other informants report that a ghost ship has been spotted there several times.
A recognizable ship with a ghostly Admiral at its helm.
Yes, I can see by your expression that you understand.]]>
Neither here nor there, though: your task, you silver-tongued rascal, remains to be at Her Grace's service.]]>
Up to you, then - as far as my purse can subsidize you. Are you up for the challenge of putting the dead, as well as the living, to rest?]]>
At this point, you've probably noticed the Castle. Marvellous, what what? A model of modern Commonwealth engineering.

And just now, it's also playing host to a representative from the illustrious Sterling Bank - how lucky we are! They're absolutely the last word in financial reliability, don't you know.]]>
The official Letter of Marque has arrived from Court, but it's addressed only to the occupant of the Castle!
This threatens my authority, my legitimacy - everything, what what! And of course, the no-good Tirries are moving in on the Castle even as we speak... Oh dear, oh dear!]]> But I need some way of arranging matters that can't implicate me.

Can't use you, I'm afraid; you're becoming known as my agent. What I need is some hired muscle...

That's it! The Knave! That's the ticket!]]>
I arrange for certain people with short tempers and a large array of weaponry to provide services to other people with deep pockets and pressing needs - but I don't work with any shifty character who shows up knowing my name.

You do a little thing for me, and I'll do business with you.]]>
Mind you, speaking of payment: I don't work for free, and neither do the very discerning gentlemen with large fleets and few morals who trust me to act in their best financial interests. Savvy?

Show me the color of your coin, if you want to hire them.]]>
Oh. You're securing the Castle for that pompous ass Oswald Murray?

Bah.

Lapdog.]]>
Just a thought. No need to decide now, of course.

You can turn tail and run back to your master now - tell Murray his mercenaries are hired and his payment has been received. So get out of my sight, lapdog.]]>
On that note, there are another few small errands you might run for me - courier tasks, really. Off you go!]]>
Don't worry, my acquisitive friend - those who ride my coattails shall ride them all the way to the top! You'll find that I won't forget you once I'm safely installed in the Castle as the Commonwealth's sole viceroy and representative in the area.]]> That's where you come in: the usual complement of rascals and monstrosities threaten our waters.

Well within your power to address, what? I'm sure you'll enjoy giving them the business end of the old harpoon. Er, cannon. Or both.]]>
Good thing that Robinson the Knave is so well-hidden. Can you imagine if every Tirry out there were able to hire an army to assault the Castle at will? Dreadful thought!]]>
There's a last few problems afloat, and then you can be kenneled for the nonce. Like a faithful hound, what what? Ha ha! Set you on the scent, and off you go! ...There's no need to look so sullen, Kapitanovich, old thing. Just my little jest.]]>
What's that? Slipped your leash?

Interesting. Perhaps I've time for you after all. How do you feel about a little hunting expedition - unsanctioned by the vovoi? Can you bear to break the rules, ex-lapdog? Are you a proper pirate, after all?]]>
If you want to keep earning the occasional bit of spare coin from me, and don't mind getting your hands - and your conscience - dirty, I think we'll work well together.]]>
The moste Glorious Commonwealth is offering to All and Sundrie a very Generous Rewarde for Proofe of Death (or of significant damage) to the Creature known only as the Kraken, in the Interests of maintaining Open trading Routes between herself and the New Worlde.

By My Hand, with all Due Authoritie in the Name of the Crown,
Oswald Murray, Esq.]]>
Applicants need not prove the origin or provenance of said Crowns.

A. E. Lancaster, on behalf of STERLING BANK.]]>
For the sinking or scuppering of the ship called REVENGE, with or without all hands, a generous reward is offered.
Proof of death must be supplied.]]>
For the laying to rest of the UNNATURAL GHOST SHIP known as the VALENCIA, with or without all hands, living or dead, a most generous reward is offered.
Proof of exorcism or reinterment must be supplied.]]>
For the sinking or scuppering of the ship called TRIUMPH, with or without all hands, a generous reward is offered.
Proof of death must be supplied.]]> Is that acceptable to you?

Good. Please sign here.]]>
Agreed?
Sign here, please.]]>
Thank you. Please sign here, and initial there.]]>
Good. Please sign and date these two pages.]]>
Standard contract. Please sign the last page.]]>
Pleasure doing business with you. Please sign and initial here, here, and there.]]>
If you're agreeable, please sign just here.]]>
Sign here, please - and I apologize, once more.]]>
We're celebrating an unprecedented TEN YEARS without a coup or assassination, and all the stops are being pulled out. Help yourself to some of the little tokens floating around!]]>
A jumped-up powder monkey by the name of Pierre le Picard has made off with a great deal of Confetti Ammo. Chase him down - and help yourself to some!]]>
It's a free-for-all, matey, and I wouldn't want you to be left out. ]]>
His Piratical Majesty has declared open season on Morgan, and his cargo.]]>
No matter; go after that cake!]]>
Yes, yes, I know you know; allow an old monster hunter his fun.

How do you feel about a bit of a challenge? If you're up for it, visit Jon Clifford to learn more - you'll need Ancient Emblems to butter him up.

When you've completed his little game, I'll see you again!]]>
Go after Theseus if you want to find out for yourself - and he's also carrying something you'll need for your next adventure!]]>
I am confident in sending you over to Norton Maxwell to face your greatest challenge yet - the mighty shark Bloodfin! It is too ferocious to face alone, so you'll want to bring some mateys.]]>
No? That's the kind of spirit I admire! Have at it - there's riches to be won!]]>
You may have noticed the parade of ships near Safe Haven. The Pirate King is paying them handsomely to visit our waters, just to provide a bit of fun for his celebration. Want to get started? Look for the good ship Syanite, and let her feel the sting of your cannons.]]>
You may have noticed the parade of ships near Safe Haven. The Pirate King is paying them handsomely to visit our waters, just to provide a bit of fun for his celebration. Want to get started? Look for the good ship Magellan, and let her feel the sting of your cannons.]]>
I'm in charge of the Arena, and I'm always searching for a few likely fighters willing to carry one standard or the other - that's why they call me Calamity Jones! Always where the ruckus is, that's me.]]>