Black Sails
"The sea gives. The sea takes. We only borrow in between."
The Black Sails are Vorak's most notorious pirate fleet, where @Captain Draven is the one who rules over the area and the pirates. To the realms, they are lawless robbers, but among the coastal people they are often seen as free spirits who refuse to bow the knee to kings, councils or merchant guilds. They live by the laws of the sea rather than those written on land. On board, origin, title and wealth play little role - what counts is skill, courage and loyalty to the crew.
Many join voluntarily after fleeing debt, war or a life they left behind. Others are rescued from storms or shipwrecks and offered a new start. Becoming a Black Sails means leaving their old life behind.
Becoming a pirate
No one becomes a full member on their first day.
A newcomer starts as a green sail, the lowest rank on board. During this time, the person must prove that they are up to the task, follow the rules of the crew and will not let their comrades down.
Only when the captain and crew consider that the person belongs on the ship is a simple ceremony held where the new pirate swears his oath over the sea. After that, the person is considered one of the Black Sails.
Those who break the oath rarely get a second chance.
Life on board
Life at sea is hard and everyone works.
No one is allowed to eat without working if they are healthy enough to help. Everyone is expected to be able to climb the rigging, pull ropes, mend sails, scoop water, keep watch at night or help in battle. Even the captain works when the situation requires it.
The booty is divided among the crew according to fixed rules. The captain gets a larger share, but no one is allowed to take more than what is allotted. Anyone who steals from their own is considered worse than an enemy.
Pirate laws
Most ships follow the same basic rules.
The crew always comes before the individual.
Never steal from a comrade.
Never abandon anyone without the captain's orders.
Divide the booty fairly.
Obey the captain at sea.
You may only challenge the captain in port.
Do not betray a Black Sails ship.
Anyone who draws their weapon against a crew member without reason will be severely punished.
The unwritten rules of the sea
All sailors, even merchants, know certain rules.
Help the shipwrecked if you can. The sea forgets those who leave others to drown.
Never steal from a ship that is already sinking.
Anyone who breaks an agreement at sea will soon lack anyone who wants to trade with them.
Everyday beliefs
Never whistle into the wind.
It is said to invite storms.
Never rename a ship.
A ship knows its name and dislikes being given a new one.
Never kill an albatross.
They carry the souls of sailors between storms.
A coin under the mast.
When a new ship is built, a silver coin is embedded under the mainmast to bring happy voyages.
First foot on board.
The first person to step aboard after a voyage determines the day's luck. That's why many let the captain or the oldest sailor go first.
The sea always takes back.
If someone gets rich too quickly, pirates say that the sea will soon claim its debt.
Punishment
Common punishments are:
Reduced share of the loot.
Extra guards and work.
Suspension from the next raid.
Landing at the nearest port.
Banishment from Black Sails.
Death penalty, only for treason or murder of a crew member.
Views of others
Traders – Essential. Without them, there is nothing to plunder.
Fishermen – Usually left alone.
Ordinary travelers – Rarely robbed unless they resist.
Nobles and wealthy merchants – Favorite targets.
Pirates from other navies – Can be friends or foes depending on reputation and past conflicts.
Pirate sayings
"The sea forgets no debt."
"A calm sea hides the deepest graves."
"Wind can be bought, luck must be earned."
"A ship is but wood. Its crew is its soul."
"He who fears the sea belongs on land."