fandomhigh | Pirating!, Monday, period 1

A message had gone out ~~handwavily~~ to meet at the port this week. When they got there they’d find their teachers standing in front of an old fashioned tall ship, its sails furled, rigging stretched all the way up the masts.

“Welcome back,” Duke said. “Or just . . . welcome in general.” Since two of their students were out of town last week.

"Welcome to Pirating, lads," said an amused Edward, clearly in his element. "This beauty of a brig's the Jackdaw, my ship, stolen right from amidst a Spanish treasure fleet."

He gave a dramatic wave with his arm.

"She's a nation to the worthy free. And today, you lot get to climb 'round her like fools."

Duke had to bite back the urge to add “allegedly” a Nader his breath at the mention of the ship being stolen.

Well. The statute of limitations should be long over on it, anyway.

“Basically you’re going to do a little obstacle course.” He pointed out the path along the boat. “Up to the forecastle, scale the rigging, swing over to the center mast, grab a flag from the crow’s nest, then head back down to the poop deck any way you want to. First to hand their flag off to one of us wins.” He grinned. “Cheating is encouraged.”

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

"Yeah, yeah. Nicknames are a sign of fondness."

"So you've known him a long time?" Steve asked.

"I've spoken to him like . . . once before this class," Duke admitted. "What, can't a guy be fond of another guy at first sight?"

"I guess?" Steve said with a helpless shrug. "I don't know your life."

"You're telling me you've never felt an instant connection with another guy?" Duke asked, carefully casual.

He hadn't planned on having a conversation like this today, but, well. When the opportunity presented itself, he couldn't help but just push a little.