Quoted By:
Rolled 2 (1d2)
Lord Ajax approaches and provides you with a simple nod of approval – a glimmer of reappraisal in his eyes. You’ve delivered him what he asked, and furthermore, provided him an opportunity to enter the fray himself – no proud Aiakides would be contented to sit above the fray when he could be justly piercing the hearts of lesser men, defending his crew from harm in the process. Not to mention – the man is reputed to be a student of Chiron himself, and all men who receive such legendary instruction are fearsome combatants. He is almost certainly the most dangerous man aboard the vessel, and you admit to yourself honestly. The general in you demanded that you bring him to bear against the enemy, and having done so, and with additional support from Pollux, Castor and Teukros, you are now free to release yourself from command.
Before Ajax can move to the line, you ask bluntly –
“Lord Ajax – I request leave to hunt for Kyrtios!” He doesn’t mince words either, speaking loudly over the din of battle –
“Bring him to me. Take Pollux!”
You don’t wait for further orders, immediately calling out to Pollux for assistance, and casting a glance behind you – four trap doors are present on the deck of the ship between amidships and the stern. Pollux is momentarily puzzled when you stack corpses and jam the port-side trap-doors shut with lumber pried from the deck, but he’s quick to follow your lead, doing the same for the third trap-door on the starboard side. Blocking such means of ambush comes without a second thought and takes only a few moments of your time.
Ajax has resumed command over his forces – they are confused at the unexpected change in commander, and pause for several long moments, losing combat momentum. Fortunately, the pirates are too busy licking their wounds to press the counterattack, binding gashes in their limbs with torn robes and belts. When the Salaminians begin pushing again, the pirates show their desperation, dodging backwards wildly, their formation beginning to fragment. Ajax restrains the sailors from a premature charge against the flailing enemy, enforcing discipline –
“Not yet, men of Salamis! Steady thrusts!"
Ajax, demonstrating proper technique for the benefit of his men, begins driving his spear at the enemy, shattering skulls and piercing livers without overextending himself – you curse the necessity of seeking the coward Kyrtios beneath the deck - he's ruined your chances to see Ajax in combat!
>cont
1 = Nikandros, 2 = Pollux
