Odd. Dolon was surprised that Niall hadn''t thrown the man overboard. He looked out to sea, but kept his ears open.


    He''s acting soft, why? Dolon pretended to scrape something off the deck with his boot.


    The day passed and the others logged off for the night, Dolon was left alone on the vessel. On deck the crew had also left the game for the night, yet the Captain still stood at the wheel, guiding his ship gently under the stars. Dolon could see that he was at peace here, at his most joyous. And I have to ruin his morning. Damn it.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Unless he''s like me, and he has to dedicate his time in game for some reason.


    At least it means I don''t have to stab this poor guy in the back now, since we''re going to be too late to act. Dolon thought to himself, then recalled the wroth of Niall. Maybe I should do something... But what? He eyed the Captain up and down, took note of the dual pistols at his belt and saw no other weapons. What Job Class is he? I''m sure I''ve never seen him at the Range. May as well ask. ''Captain.'' He called out in friendly tones. ''Sorry to pry, but what''s your job?''


    He has to have been cross trained in the Shooting Range. ''Pistoleer and Trader?''


    I don''t have too much time for this, I need to come up with a plan before we reach the island. ''Sure.''


    ''No lad, it''s the best combination.'' He was as pleasant as ever, talking about his ways of playing. ''The Shifter allows me to breath under water, gills you see.'' He pointed to his neck. ''I can go under and make repairs and clean the hull easily. The Climber in me makes it easier to get about this ship, up the masts to fix the sails. They''re perfect for being on a ship.''


    Dolon had to agree. ''Good choice.'' His shifter abilities will give him all sorts of fighting advantages, just like Niall. All I need is for this guy to whip out bear claws and ruin my day. And climbing? He could use that to sabotage the ship before we can rob the thing, cut the sails and leave us to the ocean current? I wonder if Niall knew this much? Dolon pondered. I could tie him to the wheel, maybe blow out an arm or a leg, take the fight out of him. Then when his crew appear, take care of them as quick as I can. I''ll have to wait until we reach Slug Island first.


    Thinking about what? ''You''ve made me think on something.''


    What? Even sooner than I thought! It was dark, Dolon could not see land. Damn it! He took his rifle from his shoulder and reversed it, striking the Captain in the back of his neck and head. I can tie him up while he''s unconscious.


    That should have worked. Dolon struck out with the butt of the rifle once more, catching the man in the temple. This time he fell to the planked floor and remained there. ''I''m really sorry Captain, I am.''