bythewaves | IC inbox (Drift Fleet)

You could not help it. [ Maglor says gently ] That is what I was told. I am sorry that you feel so - please do not! We are old, and more than a little mad, maybe, and very set in our ways. You could have commanded us, and I might have yielded, but we have been lords and kings and we do not yield easily to others. That is not your fault, but ours, and I am sorry that we have hurt you so.

Mikleo and I really don't put a lot of stock into the ranking thing; he didn't ask to be Captain, and I only took up First Mate so he wouldn't be doing this himself. It's not really- there's no real power involved in it. [They've literally never been in positions of power before this recent Shepherd's journey, and nowhere near a military authority structure.] Honestly, just the idea of people agreeing with me because they think they have to kinda makes my skin crawl.

I know. [ Malgor nods ]

Mikleo has expressed similarly. But Sorey - we are kings and lords, yes, but we are Captains and Commanders, also. We know, intimately, the structures of authority that will carry an army through a war. If you have to wrangle us again - do not be afraid to order. We do not have to obey. But authority we know, even if only assumed here. If you do not command, we will walk around you. But if you order, and you mean it... I can convince the others. There is no time for reasoned argument in war, Sorey.

[Sorey frowns, folding his arms in thought; he doesn't like it, doesn't like the implication that he must order Maglor in order to see any kind of change, but that Maglor's telling him this...is it more a compromise this way than just standing around arguing? Would this be the kinder choice?]

...it really would help you if I acted like a proper First Mate during disagreements?

Not always. But... in battle, if you want us to listen now ... then yes. You do have the authority - not just given by Atroma, but acknowledged by me, at least - and the others will heed me. [ Manipulating Maedhros is not easy, but Maglor has been wrangling his brother for millenia, after all ] If you think we cross the line, use it. It is highly unlikely that any of us will heed, otherwise. You can explain later, as you are doing now - but in battle, that could wind up with people dead. Even if you command... I cannot promise obedience, but you have a far, far better chance.

Agghh... [Sorey really, really hates it, and almost every single thing that just came out of Maglor's mouth.] F...fine. If I think it's something that's going to specifically harm you or us or the crew, I'll...I'll try. My best. [He really is not good at being authoritative but he'll try.]

I am sorry. [ Maglor says gently ] I wish I had a better solution for you, Sorey.

No- it's alright. It's not your responsibility to come up with something to make me happy. [Sorey shakes his head, rubbing the back of his neck.] I'll work on it. And I'll talk to Mikleo on your behalf, too.

Maybe - but I am sorry, all the same. [ Maglor says softly ]

I told Mikleo once that I would follow his orders - I did mean it.

I really would suggest you probably never say that again, maybe. [Like, Seriously Tho] True or not, I can guarantee Mikleo hates hearing it.

[ Maglor blinks at him, confused ]

Why? He is our Captain, e'en though the title is arbitrary.

It's because it's arbitrary. [Sorey runs a hand through his hair.] Mikleo would much rather you tell him that you'll listen to what he has to say because he's your friend. Not just obeying an order because our kidnappers made him a captain.

Oh! [ Maglor's eyes clear ]

But that's... Sorey, we are warriors. In your parlance, soldiers, I suppose. I don't mind being commanded, certainly not in battle, not when emotions can blur reason. That is why Maedhros and I work well together - because we can reach each other, when deep in the battle fever. It tells me that you care enough to stop me, when you do.

Mmm... [Sorey bows his head in thought, because while he doesn't get that strict adherence to command structure and deference to battlefield authority, he can absolutely understand emotions clouding reason. He's made a few mistakes like that himself.]

...okay, [Sorey says at last, nodding firmly,] I think I understand what you're saying now. And I appreciate that you're willing to trust my judgment. If this happens again and I think it's necessary, I'll order you.

I wouldn't have told him that - or you - if I did not think you capable of leading.

[ Maglor says quietly ] My loyalty is not easily bought - the designation might have been given arbitrarily, but my sentiments are not. Thank you, Sorey.

No, thank you for taking the time to listen, and to help me understand. I appreciate it. [And finally Sorey can give Maglor a genuine smile, albeit a small one. He's going to have to have a talk with Mikleo regarding all of this and see if they can't come to an agreement.]

You have a good heart, Sorey, brave and kind. Thank you for bothering to explain - it only proves that I was right, to accept you and Mikleo in that role.

[UNCOMFORTABLE]

Yes, well. Um, I don't know if they'd care to listen, but if you need me to repeat any of this to your family, please let me know. I just wanted to talk to you first.

I will speak to them.

[ Maglor assures him ]

I have been wrangling Maedhros for centuries - I will convince him.

Okay. [nods and reaches up to clap maglor on the shoulder.] Then I'll leave them to you.

[ Maglor smiles at him ]

Thank you, Sorey.

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