Pirates Law Direct

The silence stretched like a taut rope. Then, one by one, the pirates raised their hands. Not for Silas. Not against Elara. They voted on the open question.

Elara turned to the quartermaster. "The Code is clear. The captain retains command. However, the challenge was lawful." She looked at Silas. "You will not be marooned. You will receive twenty lashes for striking me. And then, if you wish, you will be restored as navigator." pirates law

The vote was eleven for Elara, nine for Silas, and three abstentions. The silence stretched like a taut rope

"That's where you're wrong, Silas," she said, her voice as cold as the deep ocean. "We are bound by a higher law. The only one that matters out here. The Pirate Code." Not against Elara

It was a brutal law. But it was their law. And on the lawless, endless sea, it was the only thing standing between them and the abyss.

Elara continued, "The Code also says: Every man has a vote in the affairs of the ship. I call for a vote of confidence. Do you still sail with me? Or do we choose a new captain?"

The crew had gathered in a silent, tense ring. The charge was mutiny.