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I set upon the sea
To search for phantom sails from tales my mum told me
A ghostly galleon filled with gold
She sails alone
No crew nor captain's guiding hand
Can tame the one the sailors call The Shadow
“It’s time, pirate.”
“Mercenary.” Technoblade sneers, despite barely having enough energy to stand he stares down the Navy officer who stood outside the cell he had occupied since the militia captured him. Not caring how he stumbled with the tarnished manacles biting into his wrists and ankles, the guard yanks him out to the hallway to begin the final walk to the scaffolds that await him.
He wasn’t a fool. Shaking out his dusky rose hair that was matted with grime he knew a long, slow death awaited him for the crime of craving freedom. Going where his blade was needed for a reasonable amount of gold, his young life had been full of stories before now when a stupid mistake led to his capture and now death.
Though he was barely over twenty winters this mercenary had established a well known mantle for himself already, the Crimson Blade was widely feared by his reputation alone. That name alone earned him a healthy amount of wealth, up until his last job where he was distracted for a mere moment and ended up with a dagger deep into his gut. The Navy picked him up and healed him just enough to put on a good show then set the date for his execution, even placing celebratory posters across the city he found himself in. He only knew because a few of the officers who patrolled the prison liked to gloat how many were expected to attend the end of his young life, only serving to enrage the doomed soul between long periods of unconsciousness.
“Come on, no time to waste.” Rough with how he handles him, Techno can only do enough to walk with a measure of dignity towards his demise, praying to whoever above a miracle happens within the next few heart beats.
Though he wasn’t a religious man, the desperate are willing to do anything for one more chance. The pink haired mercenary had no idea how he would escape this, but if there was a mere breath of hope he had to believe.
Adorned in ragged and scratchy clothes, the sunlight blinds him as they finally arrive outside. Another guard joins them and walks on Techno’s other side, providing a measure of support unlike his companion allowing the dead man walking to become steadier in his pace. Dreading at the woven noose awaiting his proud neck, he ascends the creaking wooden stairs to the prideful eyes of the Navy Commander who ordered his death.
It wasn’t hard to identify him when he arrived before the Commander, bleeding out after being injured in his last fight. Techno’s face was plastered across wanted posters up and down the coast, having such a bloody reputation was both a blessing and a curse. The celebration that rang out realising they finally caught the bastard who had killed so many of their own left the mercenary’s ears ringing, glaring down anyone who approached him to jeer that they caught him.
The Commander’s gold buttons gleamed in the bright dawn light above, beginning his speech by listing out the crimes Techno had been accused of, branding him a pirate before scheduling his hanging the moment he could walk once more. His collarbone still ached from the burning metal they forced deep into his flesh, smarting as the guards adjusted his position after looping the rope around his neck.
Staring down at the trapdoor below, he hopes he dies quickly. Not wanting to give the screaming public anything, he hopes they miscalculated and he simply perishes instead of slowly suffocating from his own body weight.
As the Commander finishes Technoblade takes one last look at the crowd ahead, wanting to face his death with his head held as high as possible. His mind wanders as he observes the gathering before him and spots something odd, a young man with wild blonde hair who wasn’t cheering unlike his peers.
Techno only has a moment to wonder about it before the ground drops from beneath him and he falls, choking as the rope suddenly tightens. His vision goes black and his body begins to panic before he is falling once more, collapsing to the ground after something breaks the rope above him. The pink haired man briefly thinks this is all a hallucination as he lays on the stone coughing for air, glad his mind spared him the agony of dying before he realises he can feel the cold of the polished floor and the aching of his neck.
“This is a mistake!” Shouting brings his mind back to the present, blinking open his teary eyes he spots the same blonde man standing between Techno and the officers with a scroll held out facing the Commander. “This is an order from Central, this man is to be tried in Central for his crimes before his death. They have reason to believe he has classified information they want to confirm before he is executed, I was sent by the General.”
Techno can hardly believe his eyes as the Commander takes the order, peering closely at it then where his prisoner is still collapsed. The mercenary didn’t want to move a muscle until he was allowed, wanting an opportunity to present itself to give him the most strategic advantage to best whoever approached. He had been given another chance and he wasn’t going down without a fight this time. But first he must wait like a hunter stalking its prey to be given the perfect window to strike, taking in everything about his saviour where the blonde stood.
Though he looked young, he carried himself with ease in his pressed uniform, the Commander still checking the orders before he sighs and responds aloud. “This has his seal on it yet he approved the pirate’s death last week, why did he change his mind? Also did you have to draw your bow to shoot him down, could you not have simply given me this order before we pulled the lever?”
“No idea sir, I am just the messenger. We just arrived and I panicked seeing the situation, I apologize for the ruckus Commander.” Giving a respectful salute, the Commander eyes the blonde once more before visibly relaxing his guard.
“Who is helping you escort this dangerous prisoner back to Central Command?”
“I am, sir.” A shorter stunning woman joined the young blonde man where he stood, also saluting to the Commander. “Naval Cadet Niki, at your service. This is my first official mission for Central and this is my leading Lieutenant, Phil.”
“Only the two of you?” The Commander questions, Phil stepping forward once more.
“We plan to take him back to our ship where several more officers await, you can escort us if you’d like?”
The Commander evaluates for a few moments more before he shrugs, turning his back after answering Phil’s question. “No, it’s fine, there are other things my officers should be attending to anyways. I’ll ask the General about this change in procedure later, just don’t let the Crimson Blade out of your sight. He’s a crafty one.”
“Aye sir, I’ve already been warned. Come on Cadet, let’s get going so we can set sail before sunhigh.” Phil requests the strong woman at his side, Techno already sensing he shouldn’t mess with her as she held herself with a confidence that betrayed her newer rank.
He didn’t entirely believe their story but wasn’t about to look this gift horse in the mouth, if they were providing him another opportunity to escape he’d play along for now.
“Up you get, no need to drag your heels, pirate.” As Cadet Niki gets close she gives him a wink, confirming they had an ulterior motive to saving this mercenary from death. Helping him climb to his feet, Phil requests the key to his restraints from a nearby officer, leaning down to undo the ones attached to Techno’s ankles to allow him to walk easier.
Phil took his left arm and Niki took his right, leading him away from the scaffold he was sure was going to be his death. He had about a thousand questions for the handsome man and beautiful woman at his side but figured he should wait until they were out of earshot, Techno’s gut was screaming they weren’t who they said they were and he could hardly wait to question them in great detail.
After they leave the square Phil shrugs off his cloak and drapes it over Techno’s head, mumbling how he needed to disguise the mercenary as they suddenly veered into a nearby alleyway. Techno leans against the crumbling brick wall watching with curiosity as his companions shed their uniforms and tuck them into their knapsacks before he finally breaks the silence.
“So who are you really?” Techno questions, his deep voice still rough after the attempted execution earlier.
“Someone who has admired your work with a sword for many winters but we have yet to have the pleasure of meeting, our true names are Phil and Niki but we are not of the Navy.”
“You are safe with us Techno, that I can swear.” Niki holds a hand over her heart, her caramel eyes beg him to believe them. “We just needed them to believe us before we disappeared with you in tow.”
“What do you need me for?” Pondering what exactly they could use a doomed mercenary for, Phil reaches out to put a hand on Techno’s scarred forearm.
“I’ve heard about your prowess on the high seas in defending whoever hires you, this will be a similar job but with a much more unique target. Once we finish putting together a crew of course, I am glad we managed to arrive in time to save you!”
“The moment we heard about your execution we rushed our journey to get here, he’s been tracking your location for moons to give you this offer.”
Techno’s apprehension grew as they continued to talk, waiting with a raised eyebrow. He was grateful they saved him but wondered just what the hell their end goal was here, dancing around the subject like they were at a masquerade.
“I wish to hire your services to guide the ship we eventually acquire in pursuit of the Shadow, if you have heard the legends which I assume you have. People trust your might and I need a known face for putting together a crew worthy of attempting this feat.”
The Shadow.
Any sailor worth their salt knew the tale of the mysterious ship who sailed the seas without a Captain or crew, laden with gold and treasures beyond anyone's imagination. Legends surrounded her that parents would tell their children before they laid down to sleep, many tried to claim her helm but no soul would return from such a journey. Tips and knowledge were traded across weathered planks of wood in taverns overrun with rough seamen drunk on cheap beer, all aspiring to be the one to own the wild vessel. Mystery and intrigue followed in her wake, a symbol of freedom and temptation that several wished to tame as a way to make a name for themselves but none so far had been successful.
In Techno’s many travels he heard whispers and rumours of this vessel, the tiniest part of him did clamber for a chance to be the one who claimed the glory. His honour demanded he repay Phil with his life anyways, after saving his own he must fulfill the debt somehow. Adventure ruled his heart and he couldn’t help the whimsical excitement that flooded his gut being given the chance to attach his name to the mythical Shadow.
Peering between his saviours with their hopeful gazes, he heaves a sigh with a smirk and asks, never one to back down from a challenge.
“Where do we begin?”
Sun and horizon met
I weighed the anchor, hoisted sails
My course was set
My cutthroat crew conspirin’ with the stars our guide
They point the way through perils fraught
To lead us to the one they call The Shadow
None can tame the one the sailors call The Shadow
That rescue had been several moons ago now, they needed time to acquire gold to buy a ship that could handle the journey and gathering together a decent crew willing to chase a legend was harder than anticipated.
As a more positive side to the delay, it gave them time to bond and Techno came to appreciate and enjoy the company of who saved him. The way Phil’s ocean eyes lit up when he was questioned about this ship he spent his whole life chasing was inspiring, his passion ignited Techno’s own with how consuming it was. Niki was an incredible fighter with a high level of charisma, she had a nose for the truths among the gossip and could hold her own in any skirmish they found themselves in.
Technoblade’s new friends were well versed on the subject, Philza had traversed the entire continent searching for any and all knowledge about this wild vessel and Techno followed in his shadow that he comfortably occupied alongside Niki who used her sweet appearance to gain information. As an orphan turned mercenary he much preferred being in the background while his charismatic companions used their charms to weasel knowledge from even the tightest lips.
It was all Phil could think about and by proxy he dragged Techno into his own obsession just as he did with Niki several winters ago when they first met, wanting to know all the mysteries of this craft that evaded all capture despite being unmanned.
They were ever so close to their goal for gold saved and Niki had already worked out a deal with the local shipyard of the city they were hiding out in. Several days' journey north of where this trio met originally, they were finally putting out word of wanting a crew to begin the adventure of tracking their target.
That’s where they found themselves today, sitting in the comfy booth of a well travelled tavern waiting to see who responded to their inquiries. Per usual Phil had covered the table in maps, journals and star charts, plotting out the last sighting of their quarry while Niki and Techno kept an eye on their surroundings. They had one more good quest before they could buy their ship and the trio was hoping that with whoever applied today they could help finish that and fill their purse with the required gold for the deal.
“Think anyone is going to show up?” Niki questions, peering around their surroundings while Techno sharpens his sword.
“I heard some interest from old contacts, I have faith.” Phil reassured them, taking a long drink from his tankard. “It’s still sunhigh, give them time.”
Techno merely grunts, putting away his whetstone and taking a look at the map Phil is furiously scribbling notes on when Niki clears her throat with a wide grin. “Looks like we have our first appointment.”
The pink haired man at her side looks to the entrance to see a brunette man dressed in bright blue with a coal-coloured mask covering the top half of his face, a wild smirk to match Phil’s own the moment he spots the newcomer. Instead of the usual sword most sailors wielded, this man had a giant battle axe strapped to his back, gleaming in the sunlight as he strolled into the tavern with a royal blue travelling cloak billowing behind him with a moth insignia around his neck visible the moment he came closer.
“I heard a rumour that you died Sneeg, how the hell are you still alive?” Phil launched himself from the booth to wrap the brunette in an enthusiastic embrace, Niki joining them as Techno simply watched. “I was a bit terrified they were true mate, I am glad they were false.”
“Rumours of my death were greatly exaggerated.” Sneeg seemed very proud of that lie, giving a wink to Niki. “Though I might have helped with conceiving said stories, I needed to disappear for a bit as my bounty was getting too high.”
“I understand that.” Techno offers a small quip, drawing Sneeg’s attention to himself.
“The Crimson Blade, I heard you escaped execution recently and I am curious how you pulled that off. The Navy Commander you ran from has been stringing up pirates left, right and center in annoyance, torturing any for information as to where you went.”
Techno winced, dreading thinking how many innocents suffered due to his escapade orchestrated by Phil and Niki. Speaking of, Phil chuckles which Sneeg’s wondering expression changed to one of understanding as the blonde slides back into the booth.
“You remember my tales about the Shadow, yes?” Phil changes the subject, Sneeg joining him as Niki returns to her original place at Techno’s side.
“Is it time?” Sneeg’s deep voice changes to a serious tone, through a critical eye Techno watches as he changes from an overall goofy attitude to one of focus and his respect for the man increases exponentially.
“There is one more job that Niki has already lined up that will be the last thing we need if you wish to join?” Phil offers, looking to Niki to pick up the conversation.
“One rich man is looking to rob from another, a classic tale as old as time and he is willing to pay good money for us to do so.” The lovely woman removes a scroll from her knapsack, spreading it across the table.
“What’s pissing off one more high class noble?” Sneeg shrugs, taking the scroll after Niki gives a nod. “Nice amount of gold for the reward too.”
“Should be enough to purchase our boat and buy supplies for the first leg of our trip.”
“The Shadow was spotted last time to the very south of us so that's where we are aiming once we finish robbing this man.” Phil announces, Sneeg is through with asking a few more questions before agreeing to join.
Turns out Sneegsnag is the only one who confirms that day, but a few others responded to the crow messengers Phil had trained that followed the blonde man around and did his bidding when he requested it. The blonde had a knack for befriending the clever corvids, it was something he was known for as they fluttered about his presence no matter if he was inside or outside. In exchange for food and shiny things they would deliver any missives needed which his contacts knew who was contacting them immediately from the method of delivery.
Sneeg’s abilities are the last thing they need to pull off the heist, able to be sneaky as well as the bulk of their might. They steal the jewels required and are paid handsomely, just in time to meet their next appointments for potentially joining the crew.
Lean left! (Lеan left!)
Hard right! (Hard right!)
Hold tightly to her helm
Shе'll try to drown you just for spite
Heave, Ho! (Heave, ho!)
'Til first light! (First light!)
She’ll give a fight to all who try to claim The Shadow
None can tame the one the sailors call The Shadow
Techno is lounging in the same booth once more but now with Sneeg, Phil and Niki. He quite liked Sneeg which was also helped by the fact Phil trusted him implicitly. It was a moon after the brunette joined them for this once in a lifetime quest and the former mercenary had some fantastic memories with the sarcastic man now. They shared a similar dry humour which brought laughs from all of them, something Techno was unused to feeling with those he surrounded himself with. They shared a natural camaraderie that was impossible to come by in this chaotic world they occupied, the rose pink haired man was experiencing a lot of firsts with Phil and his friends.
Niki was an absolute delight about keeping them in line when they needed it and encouraging chaos when that was desired. Techno grew very protective of the dear woman quickly, not that she needed help on that front with the sharp dagger she always had strapped to her hip.
Upon the ship they were planning to fill out a crew for they still needed someone to maintain the ship’s structure, an ammunition expert and a few young sailors to man various positions required for smooth sailing. Niki would be their doctor and Sneeg was a fantastic cook alongside being well versed in combat, Phil slotted himself into being the navigator and First Mate which left Techno as Captain.
The Crimson Blade had never been in command of a ship, only a hired hand, but the smallest part of him did look forward to the chance. Especially with Phil, Niki and Sneeg at his side he had faith they would work together famously for such a trip ahead. Nursing his own tall glass of water, he casts his gaze around the tavern once more with Sneeg and Phil discussing weather patterns for the coming moons, Niki having left to grab them another round of drinks.
Loud arguing announces their interviewees as two men enter mid-conversation, their volume nearly overwhelming as they insult one another while Phil gives a tired sigh, joining Techno’s gaze in surveying their new company.
“You coulda warned me that you invited him. ” The handsome raven haired man adorned in grey scaled attire sneered as he entered the tavern, his dark eyes glaring in contempt at who stood beside him, shorter in stature and brunette with crimson-trimmed robes shaded like the darkest night sky.
“Oh come on Foolish, you had to at least think it was a possibility considering it was Phil asking.” The brunette snipes back at Foolish, who practically hisses at the man.
“There are much better Gunners than you on the sea Badboyhalo, he could have picked one who didn’t nearly sink our ship last time we were on a crew together.”
“Hey, you had it perfectly under control and it wasn’t that big of an explosion….”
“Gentlemen.” Phil cuts the banter off with a single word, drawing their attention to him. “I am here to offer you a once in a lifetime opportunity to go down in the history books, do you truly want to spend it arguing or do you want to hear the details?”
Foolish sneers towards the man at his side but gestures for the blonde to go ahead, Bad staying silent.
“We have finally found the Shadow and I need the best people I know at my side to make the journey there, are you in?”
“The Shadow? Seriously?” Bad seems impressed, looking over the spread of maps. “I remember your obsession when we sailed together a few winters ago but I didn’t realise you made any progress.”
Foolish kept staring at Techno until the pink haired man gave a small smile, unnerving the handsome man. “What?”
“I know you from somewhere…”
“Aye, the wanted posters.” Techno watches as the realisation settles in. “I am the protector of this trek.”
“And your new Captain.” Phil sends Techno an encouraging smile, giving a respectful nod. “He has the most sailing experience out of the ones I have already assembled.”
“How did you convince the Crimson Blade to join you?” Foolish asks Phil, who chuckles.
“You might have heard he escaped death a few moons ago, Niki and I may have had a hand in said event. And now I can’t get rid of him.” Techno heard the playful tone in Phil’s voice, the realisation settling into the mercenary’s heart how happy he would be to spend a thousand more days engaging in fun banter with the clever blonde with a troublemaker streak.
“Like you have even tried.”
“When do we sail?” Bad’s calculating gaze marked him as one not to be trifled with, behind the bright way he spoke there lay someone who was much more clever than he let on. Akin to Sneeg it seems, something the man wearing moths as a symbol agreed with as his gaze was full of approval as Niki finally rejoined them.
“Hello Bad and Foolish, it's been a while!” Placing down the next round of drinks, she gives both of them a quick embrace. “Glad to see Phil reached out to you.”
“I had to at least come see what kind of job he was planning to run.” Foolish smirked, joining Bad in looking at the countless amount of notes across the table in Phil’s messy script. “Even if I have to patch another explosion hole I’d be very excited to attempt this.”
“I’ve refined my methods quite a bit since we last shared a ship, Foolish.” Bad remarks, glaring at the taller man with a sharp jawline.
“I’ll believe that when I see it.”
They spend a few more hours working out the logistics before they head to the port nearby to board their ship they had yet to name. As they arrive at the docks they come across an interesting scene just outside their new craft which has them all freezing in place.
A mighty tempest grew
The banshee cried "Turn back!" but our resolve was true
We pointed bow ahead and shouted
"We'll break through!"
The jaws of hell can't hold us back
There's nothing that can keep us from The Shadow
The winds blew stronger still
The ocean raged against us
Tried to break our will
The sirens in the water thirsty for the kill
Our vessel reeling to and fro
To bear us to the one they call The Shadow
None can keep us from the one they call The Shadow
“I told you I saw him!” A sunshine blonde with wild curls stood at the bottom of the gangplank, Techno raising an eyebrow noticing the boy was staring directly at him. “The Crimson Blade, that’s him!”
Phil joins Techno where he is standing with an interested tilt to his brow, waiting to see what the three boys waiting for them would say.
“Holy shit….” The smallest brunette mumbles to the tallest, someone with raven hair down to their shoulders with a pure white streaked through.
“Who are you?” Techno addresses the blonde, who startles as he is talked to directly.
“The owner of the docks told us there was a new vessel setting off soon and they needed some cabin boys to fill out the rest of the crew, we had no idea that one of the most famous mercenaries was hiring.”
“What Tommy is saying in far too many words is he is an obsessed fan.” The shortest brunette explains in a dry tone, ignoring the glare the sunshine blonde sends him.
“How much experience do you have on the high seas?” Phil questions the trio before them.
“Ever since we ran away from the orphanage that united us we have joined various sailing crews, we have about a dozen trips under our belts.” The brunette lists in a confident tone, Techno finding himself pleasantly surprised by how he carried himself.
“Are you ready to chase a legend?” Phil announces dramatically, drawing a smirk from Techno watching the trio of youth’s eyes widen. “Have any of you heard of the Shadow?”
“Course we have.” Tommy replies as his other two companions trade looks with a mix of apprehension and excitement. “I heard no sailor has ever returned from pursuing her.”
“I aim to be the one to change that statistic.”
“He’s spent his whole life studying the lore and legends surrounding her, I believe in him as I always have.” Niki joins their side, Sneeg, Bad and Foolish standing a bit behind so as to not crowd the boys.
“Were you the one who broke the Blade free of the Navy?”
“The very same.” Phil tossed a look at the taller pink haired man at his side with a warm grin. “Now he’s among one of the people I trust the most.”
“My life is yours after you saved it.” He bows his head respectfully to the blonde, who returns his smile.
“Do you still need a cabin crew?” The smallest brunette asks Phil, who eyes the trio before them.
“What do you think, Techno?”
The former mercenary eyes those before him, Tommy barely hiding the excitement in his gaze at the chance where he assumed Tommy’s two companions would follow wherever the sunshine blonde went.
“Aye, I think they will do just fine. Besides Tommy, how should I address you two?” Asking the others who have yet to name themselves, the shortest goes first.
“My name is Tubbo and this is our friend Ranboo, they are a bit shy and might take time to warm up to you.”
Ranboo pulls the mask they wear over the lower half of their face higher with the smallest nod, Techno can’t help his curiosity about the silent one of the three but figured trust will come with time and perhaps Ranboo will reveal more later.
“I think that's the last recruiting we need to do.” Niki looks behind her to their other three companions who nod. “After our initial tour of our new purchase I can put in the order for our supplies, shall we set sail at dawn tomorrow?”
Lean left! (Lean left!)
Hard right! (Hard right!)
Hold tightly to her helm
She'll try to drown you just for spite
Heave, Ho! (Heave, ho!)
'Til first light! (First light!)
She'll give a fight to all who try to claim The Shadow
None can tame the one the sailors call The Shadow
The first leg of their journey took around half a moon, they had nearly an entire continent to circle following the path of rumours and hearsay to the south where Phil last indicated the mysterious ship may be. Violent storms surrounded her and followed the Shadow wherever she sailed and pirates loved a good story, meaning each port they stopped in at least one soul could point them in the direction they saw her last.
Techno was surprised how much he enjoyed being Captain of this vessel they had dubbed the Crow’s Flight, Phil took to being First Mate with ease which meant he was the perfect partner to be at Techno’s side. The trio of cabin boys they picked up were proficient at their assigned tasks, working under Foolish and Badboyhalo when they needed more hands. Niki rarely had to patch up any serious injuries and spent most of her time keeping morale up and helping Sneeg when he needed it.
The moon was high overhead tonight, Techno taking a few moments by the rail as he wound down to get ready to sleep. They were closer than ever to their quarry and Phil had barely stopped moving all day, constantly clambering up to the crows nest to search for any sign of the ship they aimed to conquer that was until his exhaustion caught up with him and Techno had tucked him into his hammock a little while ago after he fell asleep on deck.
Taking a deep breath of the salty air, Techno enjoys the rocking of the boat and all the sensations that come with being out at sea. Though he had worked many jobs in his younger life, he was a sailor at heart and found himself to be at peace when thousands of miles of ocean surrounded him. There was a harmony to the primordial might that kept their ship afloat, kind as a lover but just as easily spiteful as one scorned.
Someone clears their throat beside Techno, he opens his eyes to notice he has been joined by the quietest member of their crew, Ranboo. Giving the young one a welcoming smile, he waits to see if they will break the silence.
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” They ask, looking out over the vision before them with their odd coloured eyes. One hazel and one emerald, Techno had come to see quite a bit of similarities between himself and Ranboo.
“Nothing like it.” An easy reply, Ranboo shivers in the cold air.
Techno shrugs off his cloak and wraps it around their thin shoulders, the young boy giving him a grateful smile before looking back over the expanse ahead of them, his mask below deck as they were the only ones on board. The Captain saw the rough scars that cut across their left cheek and still wonders how it happened, not giving into the urge and hoping one day Ranboo would explain but not pressing them on the matter. “How far away are we?”
“Couple more sunrises at most by Phil’s estimates. He doesn’t want to stop at any ports unless we are forced to by other circumstances, so I had to threaten to lock him in our room for him to rest tonight.” Techno chuckles, his heart fond of the excitable blonde who saved his life.
Ranboo giggles, wrapping the crimson cloak tighter around themself. “Sounds like him, at least from the bit I know about him in our journey so far.”
“How long have you been on your own?” Asking a question he had on his mind for weeks while the shy soul felt talkative, he hopes this won’t scare them away.
“Ever since I can remember it's been Tubbo, Tommy and I versus the world. We all got dropped off around similar times and ran away together the moment we couldn’t handle it anymore, I think I was around fourteen winters when that happened?”
Techno observes the way their face lights up as they talk about their friends, giving them an encouraging smile. “Friendships like yours are rare, I’d treasure it if I were you kid.”
“They have always been there for me, I can only hope we stay that way forever.” Techno reaches out for a rare hug, wrapping them into his broad side for more warmth as the cool breeze picks up. “What do you plan to do after we find the Shadow? Are you going to continue travelling with Phil?”
Giving an inquiry Techno himself had been considering for a while, he eventually responds once he thinks about it for a while. “Before I met Phil I was simply surviving, working whatever jobs came my way. I indulged in the stories that surrounded my escapades sure, but I don’t think I was enjoying my life the same way. He has such a natural cheer around him you can’t help but smile, instead of waiting for the gold reward here instead I am looking forward to sharing this memory with him and everyone here. Niki too, she’s so strong and I admire how loyal she is to Phil, something I completely understand now as he is worth protecting with my life.”
“Instead of an obligation it became a way for you to thrive?” Wise beyond their years, they summarise what Techno just said with a knowing expression. “I get it, it's akin to how I feel about Toms and Tubbo. They fill my life with joy and laughter, something I sorely lack by myself. I don’t think any of us expected how much we came to care for one another, even before we had reached our destination.”
They spend a few more moments conversing about what they were looking forward to before Techno walked Ranboo to the crew’s quarters, taking the cloak back with a smile and exchanging goodnights with the sweet soul. The former mercenary never expected to have any type of mentoring role but he found himself excited to spend more time with all three of their cabin boys, seeing a bit of himself in each of them.
Returning to the Captain’s quarters he is greeted with Phil snoring where he is snuggled into the hammock beside Techno’s, after changing into sleeping clothes he follows suit. Taking one last moment to look at Phil, he wonders over how much his life changed since meeting the blonde as slumber slowly claims him.
The next few sunrises pass quickly before a wild storm is spotted on their horizon centered around something in the water, Phil nearly falling over the railing excitedly pointing at it as Techno saves him from going overboard. Rousing the entire crew they gather nearby to form a plan of how to approach, Captain Techno orders them to their posts after one is formed.
As they enter the ring of winds whirling around their quarry, Techno shouts directions to those maintaining the ship’s course, fighting against the might that protected their treasure. They come close to being swamped several times in their approach, Foolish, Sneegsnag and Bad rushing below deck to operate the pumps as her hold fills with seawater.
Techno has to brace himself against the helm forcing the Crow’s Flight onward, rough waves slapping against the wooden hull with a raging ferocity. Phil is rushing below across the slick deck offering his hand where needed and Niki is helping the cabin boys where they were straining to bind the sails back up.
Though she was a good ship, she was barely a match for nature’s wrath that wanted her sunk.
As they finally break through the wall of water and rain that kept the Shadow hidden from view, the trio working the pumps rush back to the top deck with frantic expressions. Techno doesn't even have to hear it, he felt the Crow’s Flight reach the point of no return as she slowly begins to sink below the waves.
“Prepare the lifeboats!” He shouts to Phil, who sees his panic and does so without question, forcing the youngest crewmates into the small vessel first followed by Sneeg and Niki.
Techno makes Bad, Foolish and Phil enter the other one before he follows suit watching the blue water lap higher on the helm of their sinking craft. They row quickly away watching the final moments of the Crows Flight as the Shadow claims another victim, the mast being the last thing to sink below the waves.
As thunder split the sky
The lightning drew a shape beyond the tempest's eye
A chill ran through me spine as legend came alive
"Avast!" I cried
All hands as we prepare to take the one they call The Shadow
ALL HANDS!
As we approached her shell
The skies went silent
Seas went calm as if by spell
No signs of fight or flight were in her
All was well
Until I tried to take her helm…
“Everyone okay?” Niki calls out to them across the suspiciously calm water, the four in the other lifeboat rowing close enough they can toss a rope over and loosely tie the crafts together in case the waves pick up once more.
“Yep, just fine. You guys?” Phil replies which she nods too. “Good, good.”
Techno watches the blonde get immediately distracted as they approach the legendary ship he had always dreamed of seeing, the Captain in awe of her magnificent appearance. Cloaked in night black, her sails the same colour of pitch to compliment her walnut hull. A flag with a deep purple rose gilded in gold hung from the mainsail, rising high above the water adding to her massive presence.
It was incredibly imposing, everyone growing silent as it loomed above them. Techno was taking it all in with a cautious concern, wondering how long the sea would remain calm and just what they were supposed to do afterwards.
That last thought had barely time to form before he was forced to scramble in following Phil the moment they came within reach of a ladder leading to her top deck. This ship had an eerie aura to her alongside all the myths Techno was remembering as he hauled himself up the rope after his companion. Listening as those below decide whether they are going to follow before ultimately deciding to join their Captain and First Mate, Phil disappears once he reaches the top.
Techno arrives soon afterwards on his heels, once he is on his feet he keeps his hand on his sword in preparation for whatever was to come. Like the stories, there wasn’t a soul in sight. As the other seven ascended to where they stood everyone doesn’t say a word until Phil clears his throat.
“We might be the first living people to step foot on this ship.”
“Or others didn’t live to tell the tale.” Techno responds after spotting a nearby sword that looked to be in good shape laying nearby. His instincts were on high alert, focusing on escape plans in case this all goes sideways looking for any more clues to give them more context. “See that blade?”
“Certainly isn’t rusted.” Niki observes, placing her own hand on the hilt of her dagger. “Stay sharp.”
Everyone takes out their weapon of choice as they advance further on board, looking down the long deck ahead of them where the Captain’s Quarters were. Clearly indicated by how grand the closed doors were, panels outlined in gold with red velvet curtains covering the windows.
Techno then noticed the vessel continued to sail, having a bad feeling about the lifeboats staying attached to the Shadow as she set a course once more with not one person in any position, the sails snapping open to catch the wind pushing them forward.
“How is it doing that?” Tubbo questions, Techno’s keen crimson eyes finally catching a flicker out of the corner of his vision, standing at the ready.
“We aren’t alone.”
“What?” Phil asks, holding his polished bow aimed away from their group standing back to back near the main mast where it stood high above them.
“Something’s still here.”
“How observant.”
The echoing voice that addressed them made them all jump, Ranboo and Tommy fumbling their weapons as Techno prepared for conflict drawing his sword.
Before he could swing the rigging came alive above them and reached down to restrain them, yanking them up to their mercy squeezing their wrists until all dropped their defences. Holding them in an impossible grip it lashes their legs and keeps them held taught, alive but at whoevers mercy that just spoke to them in such an imposing tone.
“It’s been a while since someone boarded my ship, how intriguing.” A mass of shadows caught their attention, Techno along with a few others still attempting to escape as the night black clouds draw away from one of the most haunting women Techno has ever seen.
Only managing to scare the Captain, he immediately doubles down on trying to free himself before realising the rope would not give up and he’d have to bide his time for an opportunity to hopefully arrive.
She reaches a skeleton hand covered in gold and jewels to draw the spiderweb lace veil covering her features, revealing stunning ones with a wild curve to her full lips as amethyst chip eyes take in her prisoners. Dressed in pirate garb covered a body whose extremities were that of the dead yet her torso and head remained that of the living, with tan flesh covered in purple roses tattooed across where her skin was visible.
Techno hears a gasp to his left and looks over to see Phil staring confused at this woman before them, cooling herself with a delicate fan shaded a lavender purple waiting for them to do something.
“Are you Lady Shadows?”
Giving a single nod, the pink haired man stares at his blonde friend waiting for an explanation.
“One of the lesser known stories about this ship is that the Captain is a woman who had the power to manipulate shadows even in broad daylight to hide her skeletal features from the living. Scorned from society as those who saw her true form declared her a witch or something worse, often chased from towns because they didn’t understand those different from them she bought a ship and sailed out towards the horizon. Once she learned how to control her abilities she tracked down any of those who caused her harm and made them into shadows to become her crew forevermore.”
She hides her face from everyone the moment Phil says the words behind her fan, clearing his throat before saying louder. “Frankly, they were wrong in calling you grotesque. I would hazard more that you are misunderstood or perhaps the product of a curse or a promise gone wrong. I know there are things out there science will never be able to explain, we were just curious.”
Peeking from behind, she stares Phil down for several heartbeats before revealing her face once more and letting her shadows fall. “Who are you?”
“Just a man who heard a story about a mysterious ship once and made it my life's mission to track it down.”
“And them?” Meeting her eyes to everyone else where they remained trapped, some froze while others returned with a glare.
“My crew of pirates who trusted me enough to believe in my dream.”
“Where is your ship?”
“Destroyed in the currents you surround this vessel with.” Techno can’t help but cut in and growls at their captor, not liking being vulnerable in any situation. “Free us and let’s talk like civilized folk, or you won’t like me the moment I find my opportunity.”
“Ah Crimson, you forget this is my vessel.” She hisses back, looking just beyond his shoulder as a skeleton arm appears midair to hold a sharp dagger to his throat. “I don’t like your tone.”
Choosing to bite his tongue he sends a pleading look Phil’s way. “If you let us down it will be easier to talk because we will be more willing too. I swear to you, I mean you no harm.”
“He does.” Lady Shadow is still glaring in Techno’s direction as he sneers.
“Fine, only me then. But leave them unharmed.” He begs her, watching as the rope creeps closer to everyone’s necks. “They are innocent, we may be pirates but we won’t disrespect a proper parlay if you are willing to have one with only me.”
She considers, before raising her hand and allowing the blonde to fall to the deck, which he does so with a heavy thud and grunt before rising to his feet slowly. “Couldn’t have been a bit more gentle?”
Techno watches his companion use his charm adding a small chuckle to the end, Lady Shadow seemingly unsettled by the change in tone. Phil makes his way to where two of her crew sit at a table near one of the masts, opening his hand as he speaks.
“Would you gentlebones mind giving us these seats, that fall has hurt me quite a bit. Unlike you two, I still bruise.” A few snicker at his choice of word, both getting up with dramatic bows to fade into the shadows to attend to something else, Techno trying to keep track of those around him besides the steady hand at his throat.
He hated how scared the trio of cabin boys he was responsible for looked, feeling grateful they were at least nearby one another.
Lady Shadows sits down after Phil pulls out a chair for her, still cautious in her movements while Phil seemed completely relaxed despite the slight limp he had. He draws a flask from inside his jacket and locates two mugs nearby, pouring out what was within and fills them with the same amount of the honey liquid.
“To our health and proper parlay.” Raising his glass, he waits for the Lady to grasp her own mug with clicks of bone against the wooden cup and tap it against the blonde’s.
“I have to know, is the cargo bay of this ship filled with gold and stolen treasures?” Phil’s curious nature immediately comes out which brings a soft giggle from the one across from him.
“I took from those who wronged me. So perhaps.” Taking a sip of the drink before her, Phil joins her with a gulp of his own. “What are your intentions here?”
“I spent forever wondering what mysteries this vessel held, I only ever seeked to satisfy finding the Shadow and stepping aboard. That is all, I wanted a legend to write down on my deathbed to eventually pass along to those who I have surrounded myself with. I didn’t ever intend to harm this story, only to tell it with personal experience attached. You have to know there are humans out there who only seek harmony with what they don’t understand, it's in our nature to question what we find different but not all of us want to be rid of the unknown.”
“So you risked your life to search for a legend that might kill you just so you could tell it from your own viewpoint?” She summarises with a slight smirk, Techno only heaving a sigh realising the fact his best friend was succeeding in winning her over. “How…impulsive.”
“Also within human nature.” Phil agrees with a hearty smile, taking another long drink.
She spends a few more moments observing the man sitting across from her before the Lady Shadows looks over her prisoners once more, eventually holding up her hands and making a gesture only her crew understood. Techno is surprised when he is suddenly let go, meeting gravity’s sudden embrace followed by the rest of his family. Taking a moment to check them over he has to fight his instinct away from reaching for his weapon as he didn’t want to anger her, realising she could be reasonable he decided to step back from violence until he knew more.
Hiding Ranboo, Tubbo, and Tommy behind himself with Foolish, Bad and Niki settling either side, they wait as Lady Shadows’ crew drop one by one from the rigging above to stand at attention towards their Captain around them.
“I’ll make you an offer.” She speaks loud enough for everyone to hear, Phil waiting to see what she has to say. “Become my new crew and I won’t kill you, also I want to know more about you in particular, Crow.”
“Are they—flirting?” Tommy mumbles to Tubbo behind Techno, who has to stop himself from laughing.
“Oh my Lady, you flatter me.” Phil responds, Tubbo playfully gagging as Ranboo joins in on their teasing chuckling. “What do you say, my friends?”
Techno can’t believe this man saved him from being hanged only for them to end up as a crew for some mythological being he wasn’t even sure was human, peering around at those nearby checking to see if he could tell what they are thinking. The tiniest part of his heart wondered about the potential adventure ahead of becoming part of the legend of the Shadow, knowing he could do what he loved while being protected by someone made of night and mystery.
“Will our hearts will keep beating even if we agree?” Niki steps forth to address Lady Shadows who immediately nods.
“My word is my vow, Fallen Star.”
Techno longs to question how she knew all their titles without introduction but decided to hold them as one by one his crew stood at his side with Tommy clearing his throat before stating. “Where you go, we go Captain.”
Her rigging came alive
She hung my crew before me eyes
She stole my sight and cursed me Captain of The Shadow
She took my eyes and cursed me Captain of The Shadow
Lean left! (Lean left!)
Hard right! (Hard right!)
Steer clear of her I fear
She’ll eat your soul
She’ll take your life
An entire cycle of seasons has now passed since they made the choice to stay aboard, Lady Shadows finally letting her old crew pass onto the afterlife. She kept her word, allowing those she recruited to stay alive and she remained Captain of the vessel. Once they accepted her offer she gave them the ability to cloak themselves in shadows too, allowing the mystery of the Shadow to remain true.
By day they travelled to wherever they desired to explore or picked up supplies for where they wished to go next and at night they spent it singing together and eating hearty meals. Techno no longer worried about the Navy breathing down his neck now that he was a wanted man once more due to Lady Shadows protection and got to enjoy his life.
During their time aboard their Lady Captain became kinder, especially after Phil declared his intentions to court her which she seemed flattered by, accepting his advances. Though it brought a round of teasing from the crew, they were happy for the new couple. Eventually she chose to reveal the name she was born with and trusted them with that knowledge, asking to be addressed as such when they were at sail. A secret she made them promise to keep, they all bonded closer as a crew as the moons passed.
Techno is leaning against a rail on the upper deck, watching the ocean as they glide across it, circled by the storms that protected their mythical ship he enjoyed the salty air brushing against his face. It's a lovely day, warm with pleasant breezes heavy with the salt, the blue sky above them clear with the sunlight bright as it reflects off the freshly mopped decks below.
He can’t help the smile that crawls across his face watching their three youngest members chase one another with mops, shouting insults while attending to their tasks. Sneeg was somewhere below deck preparing their mid-day meal with Niki helping, something she often did as her healing skills were mainly needed in a crisis.
Phil makes his way up to the top deck joining his best friend leaving Kristin to playfully remind the boys to be careful, his face dopey with love watching their Lady address their youth. Techno can only chuckle as the blonde snaps out of it, giving an embarrassed laugh before he leans into the taller pink-haired man’s side.
“What a life we lead, hm?”
“Bet you didn’t expect to find the Shadow and your future as one in the same.” Techno comments, Phil smirking.
“The unpredictability of life is also one of its greatest gifts, how else would we have ended up here?”
“We wouldn’t have as if you didn’t save me, instead I’d be dead, a mere legend spoken about with the reverence surrounding a fallen folk hero.” Techno peers down to meet Phil’s sky blue eyes, laughter lines carved deep on either side of his view. “I am ever so glad you did.”
“I hope we have a thousand more days like this.”
“With the Lady Shadows at your side and your family supporting you, we will strive to make sure that is true.”
Wrapping his arm across Phil’s shoulders, he holds the man tight as they observe their companions before them. Kristin sends them a smile as their cabin trio get back to work with loud banter still traded between but heeding her warnings, not wanting to make extra work for Niki they are more careful as they clean.
From a former mercenary to a Captain to First Mate of a mythical ship, his path in life had certainly taken a turn but he didn’t find any regret within his heart. He had love and safety all around him, protected by a legend and saved by his family. For a supposed dead man he had all the life he could ever ask for and a story he’d remember forever, all because a blonde pirate decided to save his mortal soul and take him on a journey he’d never forget.
He’d spend eternity showing his thanks and do so happily with his dear companions at his side, adventuring the high seas and exploring places they have never been before. What a wonderful forever to look forward to, all due to an impulsive decision and chasing a dream.
Heave, ho! (Heave, Ho!)
'Til first light! (First Light!)
She’ll claim the souls of those who try to tame The Shadow
None can tame the one the sailors call The Shadow
None can tame the one the sailors call The Shadow