~
“The crew is to hell,” growled Lascek, glancing at the deck.
Marsden nodded gravely.
“Jon,” added the Captain, “you didn’t answer my question. Where do you stand?”
“Radomir,” said Jon Marsden, “as I said. My concern is for your crew. I don’t think staging this trial makes the decision any easier. I wouldn’t have.”
“It was important to hear them,” said Lascek.
“Paean is prepared to stake her own life,” Marsden pointed out. “What does that tell you about the Donegals? Where do her loyalties lie?”
“She’s an emotional child, Jon,” said Lascek. “Children can’t pledge.”
“Two months short of adult status?”
“Still,” said the Pirate Captain. “So, Jon, what would your verdict be?”
“Captain, whatever you decide, I’ll back you,” said Jon. “I don’t like executing the little boy, but if it has to be… Putting her ashore is not an option though.”
“We’re agreed on that,” sighed Lascek.
“You are the Captain,” said Jon. “Your word goes. It shall be my duty to prevent a mutiny or smooth over whatever happens after.”
Radomir Lascek clapped his First Mate on the shoulder. “Thank you for that, Jon.” He peered out at the deck. “Doesn’t facilitate my decision in any way, but it’s good to know that there is a future for the crew, afterwards.”