Man of War Ch. 02

Solis is always the one day of relaxation, reflection and worship. Jane and I rose early, dressed in our uniforms, and journeyed to the Pantheon for prayers. It was a grand building, with a façade showing the Five Gods and a hundred other minor gods in battle against demons led by Lucifer and his allies, and the vanquishing of the damned. Half a dozen stone columns lined the front of the building. Above the door was a line 'Uhtred Dragonheart, Heart of the People, Emperor as divined by the Five.' The Dragonheart family had ruled for near a thousand years. I'm sure I wasn't the only one thinking it could last a thousand more.

Entering the rotunda, there is a hole high above in the dome to let in natural light. Fifty-five metres wide and high, the concrete dome above our heads was one of the largest structures ever designed and built by the Empire. The temple could fit at least five thousand during the largest of services, though on a regular Solis, there were no more than a couple of hundred people, generally those who are devout would attend every week. Looking around, there was a smattering of those wearing the uniform. Nearly all serving men had at least a little faith.

Adorning the walls around us were statues of the Five. While those were the most revered, and are the 'official' deities of the religion, there were many minor gods that many prayed to. There were many small statues, in addition to all the paintings and frescoes on the wall, with an enormous artwork on the underside of the dome above us, the hole allowing in the natural light playing its part in the design.

All in all, the Pantheon was an awe-inspiring building, and I would always attend Solis services whenever I was in Arcturus. Jane wasn't as devout as myself, though still wore a necklace, for the goddess, Mena. A real surprise, considering she was worshipped by those wishing for children. I had asked Jane only the once, and she admitted to wanting children one day, so wore the necklace in the hope that, when she wanted them, she would be gifted. Under my shirt, I wore a simple necklace for the God of Wind, Venti. Some would think I would worship Mars, but I'm a sailor, and what does a sailor need most? A breeze, some wind, just a little air so my ship moves. That's all any sailor wants. I would pray to the God of War before battle.

Jane and I enjoyed an evening meal out later that day, informing her that I would be working at Admiralty House during the week, and she was free to either remain at home, come with me to the office, which would be rather boring, or occupy herself while I was at work. She agreed to the third option, admitting to just wanting some rest and relaxation before our departure. It wasn't a bad idea, and I promised her at least a little fun on my next day off.

The next morning, Jane did offer to join me as I escorted to the Admiralty House so I could introduce her to the Lord Admiral. To say they got on very well would be an understatement, and he had no problem accepting her commission to the Normandy.

*****

Year 2183 of the Empire (since Foundation Year)

Year 979 of the Third Era of Empire (Dragonheart Line)

Mercuri, the tenth day of Morning Star

Near lunchtime

I answered the knock at the door with the regular "Come in," sensing whoever it was walk in and stand in front of my desk. I finished the sentence I was writing, the note being an update for the Sea Lord, before placing the quill back in its pot and finally looked up to greet whoever had walked in. I was taken aback slightly by the robed figure as it was completely unexpected. That meant...

"You have magic," I stated bluntly.

The man saluted before standing easy, hands behind his back. "Yes, sir." He gestured at his robes, which were the same colour as my navy coat, with gold embroidery across the chest and shoulders. The Imperial crest lay on the right side, near where everyone thought the heart lay. He continued, "On the field, I'll wear the standard uniform expected of any officer, but as I wasn't sure if you'd know who I am and my gift, I thought this would help explain it."

"Your orders?" He held a folder behind his back, which he passed over. "Take a seat."

Flicking through the paperwork, I learned his name, Kaidan Alenko, he was a Captain of the Marines, which was a real surprise, as soldiers with magic were usually designated particular positions across our armed forces, and usually worked in groups with people who shared their gift. That he had served three previous tours on three separate ships wasn't a real surprise. And changes of ship weren't an issue unless there were remarks in his records. Officers moved continuously as they ascended the ranks. But to make his position, as someone gifted with magic, would have required either years of service or an exemplary record. All his other personal details were there, noticing he hailed from the Grand Duchy of Bavaria, but I only gave the rest only a cursory glance. I'd rather learn about men under my command through the art of conversation rather than reading dull words on paper. However, there was one question I had to ask. "You have magic. I must ask, how are you a Captain of the Marines?"

"May I speak freely, sir?" I gestured for him to continue, and a smirk formed. "I worked my arse off to get to this position, sir. I've never asked for any special treatment and, to be honest, have never shown off my magical capabilities, at least to their fullest extent. I understand many fear us. I don't want my fellow soldiers to be afraid of me."

"It's natural that men will fear what they don't understand. And the gift of magic is still not understood at all."

"And you, sir, if I may ask?"

"My contact with those gifted with magic is few and far between, but I certainly won't have an issue with those gifted from serving on my ship." I sensed some relief at my words, left thinking he had been nervous I may have challenged his appointment. "Your contingent of men. Are they prepared to leave?"

"We are camped just outside the walls, sir. To the north. They are ready to leave at moment's notice."

"I assume you've been notified of the mission?" He nodded. "And your men?"

"They will be told when you speak to the crew, sir. The warning from the Lord Admiral and Sea Lord was clear and explicit."

"Most are single?"

"Only one or two family men, sir. But they are good men and will accept the mission regardless. The chance to go beyond..."

"Very good. Departure has been delayed as we gather the crew. Supplies ae currently being loaded and some men are already moving into quarters as final preparations are made."

"It's obviously bad luck for the captain to board too soon."

I couldn't help the slight smile. "Correct you are, Captain." Rising to my feet, I rounded the table so we could shake hands. "Captain Alenko, it will be pleasure to have you aboard the Normandy. And I will ensure you are notified of the new departure date. It should only be a week or two at most after the original date."

"Thank you, sir. I look forward to serving." He paused, before adding, "And before I go, there's a couple more people waiting outside. I think they're your new appointments."

"Very well. Send the next one in."

Resuming my seat, I watched Alenko walk out the door. A minute later, in strode a silver haired woman, no taller than my sister, dressed in the uniform of a doctor. That was a complete and utter surprise. Surgeons on ships were always men. Always. The fact I was possibly being sent a woman as a surgeon, or even surgeon's mate, suggested the navy was absolutely serious about this being a unisex crew. She came to attention in front of me, a crisp, well-trained salute. I returned it before gesturing for her to relax.

"Doctor Karin Chakwas, reporting for duty, sir."

"Orders?" She passed over a folder, like Alenko. "Please, take a seat." She took one of the chairs and relaxed immediately as I flicked through her paperwork. The first question I had to ask was, "You've never served aboard a ship?"

"No, sir."

"Yet the note states you volunteered for this mission. Why?"

"I've always wanted to sail the ocean blue, sir, but opportunities for surgeons such as myself are limited to non-existent." She paused before adding, "I can understand why, to a point. But I couldn't turn down the chance of at least applying for this role. And I can only assume the board liked what I had to say."

I looked through more paperwork. "Well, your record is outstanding. Born and raised in Verona, Tomeria, where you left school with grades anyone would hope for. A doctorate from the Imperial College of Medicine in Arcturus. Residency at the Imperial Hospital of Bergen. You applied to join the navy later than most though."

"I grew bored of life in hospitals. I loved healing the sick and injured, but I wanted to serve the Empire, and hoped, perhaps naively, that I would eventually serve aboard a ship. I've waited a long time for this opportunity, Captain."

"Have you treated the wounded in battle, those who have been shot or stabbed, or perhaps those seriously wounded by the impact of cannonball? And let's not forget the million and one other injuries a sailor can suffer at any time."

"I was sent to Tromso to assist with the wounded after the attack, sir. I saw all manner of injuries I'd never seen before. After that, nothing will probably surprise me. I can perform surgery, amputations and also help with birthing..." She gave me a knowing look.

"Ah, I understand you would have been informed of the, let's call them relaxed rules regarding this voyage."

"Do you anticipate trouble because of it, sir?"

"Depending on how many women there are, I think. Lonely men who see content men could get jealous and the situation can dissolve from there. I've already had to look at plans of the Normandy and ensure the women sailors are kept separate and secured. I don't want sexual assaults and rapes taking place between my crew. If it does, the penalties will be the harshest possible."

"Harshest?"

"Men will hang if found guilty. Everyone will be warned prior to departure. The warning will be for officers, NCOs and enlisted man alike." I cleared my throat. "We're going off on a tangent here. I will only ask this question once of all commissioned officers who want to join. Are you sure, Doctor? We could be gone for a very long time."

"I am unmarried, no children, no real family left alive, sir. I have nothing that keeps me here. This will be a real adventure and one I am already looking forward to. Just tell me when we leave and I'll be on board, readying my surgery, eager to depart. I have only one request?"

"Oh..."

"Do you like brandy, sir?"

"I have enjoyed the occasional tipple."

"I always carry a bottle or two, sir. The finest label from Normandy. If there's one thing the Normans can do, it's distil brandy."

"I might just have to join you for a drink one day, Doctor."

The first smile appeared, and it lit up her face, particularly her green eyes. "You would do me a great honour, sir."

I rose to my feet and rounded the table. "Are you staying in lodgings nearby?" I asked as she also rose to her feet.

"I have my own little place in town, sir. I was tempted to sell it before we departed."

"No, keep it. We'll return one day."

"I'll keep you to that one, sir."

We shook hands, hers far softer than I would have imagined. My face must have shown my surprise, as she laughed, this delightful one that I hoped I'd hear again, perhaps over a drink of brandy. And not in the way you're probably thinking. She was old enough to be my mother, but I always got to know my crew well. Before leaving, I asked her to send in whoever was next, settling back in my chair, wondering who next would introduce themselves.

****

Year 2183 of the Empire (since Foundation Year)

Year 979 of the Third Era of Empire (Dragonheart Line)

Veneris, the twelfth day of Morning Star

Afternoon

I had met most of my officers assigned to me during the week. My Sailing Master, though generally only ever referred to as Master, was a gentleman by the name of Charles Pressly, as appointed by the Navy Board. His record was exemplary, and I had a recollection of his name, as he had been part of the fleet during the Battle of the Five Apostles. His primary role was one of navigation in conjunction with the Quartermaster, and he would also be assisted by a Master's Mate. I welcomed his commission.

My purser was a coloured gentleman by the name of Jacob Taylor. People of colour came from the Summer Isles, an archipelago of a dozen habitable islands (and least twenty more uninhabitable) off the south-west of the continent, and were now seen all over the Empire, though not in the greatest of numbers, and some served with the Imperial Navy. For someone such as Jacob to rise such as high was a surprise, though, but he impressed me greatly during his interview, and after some discussion with my sister, simply as a sounding board, I chose Taylor as my officer of supplies. He assumed his responsibilities immediately, taking over from the man temporarily in charge.

In addition to his commission, Taylor made a request, that I hire a lady by the name of Kelly Chambers, who was a Yeoman he had worked with previously. Calling her in for an interview, she was bubbly and very friendly, and I'll admit I had a trouble retaining a straight face during the entire interview.

I hired her immediately.

My new Master-at-Arms, and Chief Petty Officer, was a lady by the name of Aela Grettasdottir, who was from the far north-west of the Empire, the Kingdom of Prussia. I'll admit, I liked her immediately. She was forthright with her opinion and incredibly self-confident. She explained a little of her history, being the first woman in her family to serve in the Imperial Navy, with a long list of fathers and forefathers who had served, going back hundreds of years. As Master-at-Arms of the Normandy, she would be responsible for all weapons, including rifles and cannons, and would also help with discipline of the enlisted men.

She asked to bring her own Ship's corporal, and allowing that, was unsurprised she brought along her companion from her previous ship.

My personal, or Captain's Clerk, would be the lady currently working for me now, by the name of Samantha Traynor. A mixed-race woman, she hailed from the Principality of Lavonia, but had a delightful accent I could just listen to all day, allied to a dry sense of humour and a work ethic that put nearly anyone else to shame. As a civilian, I had to warn her about what life was like on a ship, but even after explaining it, she was eager to join up. I wanted her, she wanted to join up. It was a match made in heaven.

During the week, more appointments were made, including the Midshipman and his mate, stewards for the officers, cooks for the enlisted, a boatswain, a carpenter, an armourer, a cooper, a caulker, a sailmaker and watch captain's. After all those appointments, I had to look at the list and see what else remained.

"Samantha?" I called. She appeared in the doorway, ready to listen to or write down whatever I requested. "Any word on a priest on the Five being commissioned?"

"No, sir. Would you like me to make enquiries?"

"Please, as I'd like to at least meet them before we sail."

"I'll find out as soon as possible. But there is a young lady outside now, waiting to meet you."

"Send her in, Samantha."

A minute or so later, a vision of beauty, a veritable goddess walked in. Raven haired, green eyes, a pair of natural ruby lips that I immediately had ungentlemanly thoughts about. Pale skin, the sort a lady dreams of. Curves in all the right places, a bust and a rear that would make any man stop and stare. The sort of woman that makes your heart immediately beat twice as fast, your tongue feel twice the size so you can't speak, and you feel blood surge to other parts of your body, so much so it was probably a good idea I didn't stand for a couple of minutes. Dressed as a surgeon, I could take a guess at her role. She came to attention and saluted, returning it as I asked for her papers.

Her name was Serana Volkihar, hailing from the Grand Duchy of Haafingaar. I didn't want to just read her paperwork, but for the first time in a long time, I found myself incapable of conversing with a member of the opposite sex, at least for a couple of minutes. I gestured to one of the chairs, watching her sit down and cross her legs, her skirt splitting enough so I could see some calf and shin. I shouldn't have glanced but even they were spectacular. It was a strange feeling, but I eventually managed to say something.

"Your paperwork is impressive, Doctor."

"Thank you, sir." By the Five, her voice was pure silk. I had to remind myself to behave and certainly don't even contemplate what was bubbling up in the back of my mind.

"Having not served aboard a ship and no doubt informed of the mission, I will ask only once. Are you sure you wish to serve?"

"Yes, sir. I think serving about the Normandy will provide plenty of adventure, and as you can see from my paperwork, helping the sick and the wounded won't be an issue."

"Ever heard the name of Doctor Karin Chakwas?"

"I've never met her, but the name is familiar. Why?"

"Due to the size of the crew, and the fact it unisex, it was decided by the Admiralty Board that two surgeons would be required on board the vessel."

"I'm used to working with others, sir. That won't be a problem. And I can take a guess why there will be two of us." The look on her face suggested much as she added, "I'm not sure about Doctor Chakwas, but I've been present during births. It won't be a shock. Do you expect any?"

"We will be gone for many months, if not years. And life sometimes finds a way."

"When do you anticipate our departure, sir?"

"I would have liked within the week, but I'm still waiting for the appointment of my Lieutenant by the Admiralty Board. Until I know who that is, we won't be going anywhere. I'm also waiting to meet the priest who will accompany us. Do you have lodgings?"

"I will be in barracks until we leave, sir." I almost offered her my spare room until I remembered my sister was living with me. Rising to my feet, she followed me to the door. I offered my hand, surprised by how soft her hands were. She must have seen the surprise on my face. "I wear gloves when I work, sir."

"Good to know." She smiled at the remark and I cleared my throat. "I will ensure you are notified of the date of departure. Before leaving, Samantha can give you the list of officers currently commissioned to the Normandy. You might recognise names, and I've suggested people meet to gain an understanding of each other."

"Of course, sir. Thank you, sir." She was just about to turn and walk out the door when I called her to stop. She turned and smiled. "Yes, Captain?"

She knew. She already knew. "I'm nearly finished her, Ms. Volk..."

"My name is Serana, Captain," she interrupted with a smile.

I quickly grabbed my jacket from the back of my chair, putting that on as I returned to her. "Care to join me for a drink? I'm done for the day and would like the company. And if we're going to be familiar, please call me Shepard. Leave the 'Captain' bit for the ship."

I think the smile broadened, though I could be wrong. "I'd be delighted, Shepard."

Offering my arm, we said goodbye to Samantha as we walked along the grand hall before exiting into the city itself. There was no way I was going to lead us towards my usual hangout places, so we walked through one of the parks that dotted the city before arriving at a café, where I bought us a drink each.

After being tongue-tied upon first seeing her, the conversation was soon flowing. I tried not to ask too many personal questions but she freely gave up any information. She came from a line of physicians, her parents continuing to work at doctors in her homeland. She was an only child, something of a surprise, as most families were far larger. Otherwise, she'd been working in Arcturus for a number of years, and though she'd applied for the role, she had been 'tapped up' by the Admiralty.