Most soldiers would give Othello the brush off—either because they sincerely did not know where the commander was or was not crazy about being the one to send the intimidating gifted his way. But, before long, Othello would find himself directed to the armory where Hadrian was barking lengthy and detailed orders to a blacksmith trying frantically to note them all.

It would be to Othello to address the commander and attract his attention.

Hadrian turned from the blacksmith, prepared to tell whatever soldier it was interrupting to wait in the most emphatic terms. But it wasn’t an ordinary private that stood before him. It was the gifted. Hadrian hadn’t fully appreciated the man’s value before, but after seeing the demonstration at the field…needless to say Othello had Hadrian’s undivided attention.

“Mister Allemeade,” Hadrian said, waving away the blacksmith, “What can I do for you?”

Hadrian found himself vaguely impressed by the man’s comportment and calm demeanor. Yes, he still bore some of the rough edges of a Coheedsman, but the center had been smoothed with convincing Nevermerean polish. Maybe Lassiter wasn’t as incompetent as he’d started to believe. In this particular arena, anyway.

His face softened a little at Othello’s question. Hadrian could understand his concern. More cynically, he wondered just how deep that concern ran (the two had shared quarters after all, and it was known to Hadrian that Regan generally had a hard time keeping her hands to herself). But that was none of his concern.

“She’s well on her way to a full recovery. No doubt you’ll be able to see her soon.” Hadrian had received word that she’d stepped foot back in Nevermere but wasn’t entirely clear on whether Cassian wanted that to be made known. He hadn’t seen her himself, so had no knowledge that her recovery, while complete, wasn’t entirely full.

His boat.

Hadrian almost corrected him. That no, it was no longer his boat, but the property of Nevermere’s military. Even if Othello were to be stationed on it, still it would not be his. But, Hadrian determined there was no point in making such a distinction. Not when he was only gaining his footing with the Lorendaler/Coheedsman/Nevermerean—whatever he was.

Hadrian

“The ship’s repairs are almost finished,” Hadrian replied with calm efficiency, “As for its use, no doubt it will be valuable in what lies ahead. I’d be happy for you to visit it and be given a…tour, let’s say.” Hadrian was happy to concede that much, so long as it made the Coheedsman happy. Hadrian turned to the next part of Othello’s request.

“Your boredom, Private Allemeade, is understandable for one used to sailing the seas. Trust me, I understand it personally. But I assure you there remains much to be done. Though your time with the huntsman was well spent, you’ll be integrating more wholly within our military. Perhaps down the line, a crew will be afforded you. But for now,” Hadrian said, “Focus on your training. Take orders as they’re given. It’s not terribly exciting, but I’m afraid that’s just what it is.”

It was true: Hadrian hadn’t yet discovered all the ship's secrets. To hear them now made him realize a tour from Othello might be time well spent. He nodded, unable to help the touch of a smile that tugged at the corner of his mouth. The man was ridiculous, no doubt about that, but that absurdity certainly had charisma buried in it somewhere.

But once Othello moved on to the next matter, Hadrian’s smile fell away. His face grew stern as he slowly crossed his arms. He paused for a moment, considering the gifted before finally answering.

“You were never supposed to witness what you did; there aren’t even many soldiers in Nevermere that have. I didn’t believe an explanation would be necessary. But…as it is…” Hadrian’s brow furrowed, “Men in Nevermere carry a werewolf curse that can be activated by a witch that knows how to cast it. These witches few in number; it is a closely guarded secret. In fact…all of it is.” Hadrian frowned a little.

“Keeping the rest of Terra Nova in the dark gives Nevermere an advantage—one that we will need in conflicts to come. I hope I can count on your discretion.”

Hadrian’s brow furrowed. The Allemeade had a mission upcoming, and he found himself a little surprised he hadn’t been notified of it yet. Hadrian almost did it himself, but he decided this wasn’t the time or place—and neither was he the person to do it. So, he opted for something vague but true.

“I believe you have an upcoming mission of some interest,” Hadrian responded, “I’d speak with Miss Lassiter for further details. That is—” He added quickly, “When she returns, of course. Otherwise…” Hadrian sighed, “Captain Woodwick and Lieutenant Abbot will be your superior officers. I can make arrangements for someone to assist you in finding a place for you and your son.” He smiled.

“You’ve been a man without an anchor for some time, Mister Allemeade. Though there is stability with life on shore, the certainty does not provide one with a life as exciting as that on the high seas. I imagine it will take some getting used to.”

Hadrian’s advice was both literal and metaphorical.

A mission? Othello was very surprised as this was the first time he had heard anything about it but the Commander didn't seem to elaborate further giving the advise instead to speak with Regan upon her return. The Commander continued to spit facts about how free Othello had always been and it was very true every bit of this was new, at times it nice and others it strangled him like the collar strangled his Gift. Still the life Othello had lived in his short lifetime was more cultured and diverse than anyone else's rap sheet could ever be, he was very sure of that.

Nothing would ever compare to his time on the seas.

Not meaning to linger any longer Othello shook his head, "No need for the arrangements Commander, though it is appreciated, Benji and I will find us a home. I'll report to Captain Woodwick in the meantime for duty, thank you Commander I have nothing further, unless you do?" he would wait to be dismissed.

Hadrian once again found himself impressed by Othello’s comportment. Yes, the gifted still had some rough edges that had not been buffed smooth, but he conducted himself much like soldiers who had come up through the ranks of mandatory training.

“Nothing further, soldier. I can’t imagine this transition has been an easy one, and I acknowledge that your situation is somewhat…complicated,” Hadrian smiled, face softening some, “But your service is valued. Make no mistake.”

Perhaps there was a certain amount of ego-stroking going on by Hadrian, but there was a genuine sentiment in there somewhere.