<span style="font-family: 'Georgia'">The nerves in Joanna's shoulders bunched up, but she raised her chin up and didn't say a word. The captain's narrowed eyebrows expressed disapproval. He knew something must've happened for them to make it to dinner. Joanna immediately made the assumption that this man didn't come across women like them very often. He was inconsiderate; Joanna knew her and Ellen would've taken days, possibly weeks, before they finally finishing moving all of the cannonballs out of the room. Their frail and malnourished bodies could barely push the heavy things a foot away from them. Joanna prayed that Tim didn't get in trouble. She hadn't realized the possible ramifications until now and felt bad immediately. Had Tim known that there might be consequences, if any at all?<br/>
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Joanna surveyed the man in front of her and spoke accordingly, "Ellen, sit down with the captain. I'll grab us some food. A big helping for the both of us."<br/>
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Ellen hesitated. "But Joanna-"<br/>
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"Go on. It's fine." <br/>
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Joanna turned on the ball of her aching foot and filled their bowls to the brim. Joanna also made sure that she and her sister got more than just the rich, savoury broth; a generous helping of the meat and vegetables would surely fill them up. She carefully conducted herself on the way back and set the bowl in front of Ellen. A spoon was handed off and Joanna sat down in the empty seat across from Ellen. Murmurs and whispers from the crew were passed around, though Joanna could barely hear what they were talking about. She was positive, however, that it had something to do with her and Ellen sitting at the Captain's table. Tim didn't even sit with the captain himself; It was strange. Why didn't anyone sit with this man? Surely he had a close friend out of all of these buggers.<br/>
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"Don't chow on it, Ellen. This is valuable to us, our first actual meal in years. It's steaming hot, so savor it." <br/>
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She took a slow sip of the broth and allowed the rich, hearty stew to melt in her mouth for a bit before she finally made the decision to swallow. It was difficult not to slurp the whole thing up and let the meat and vegetables fill her mouth. It was also equally difficult to not comment out loud on how wholesome and impressive the meal was. She ate a few bites, savoring each and every piece of flavorful meat and vegetable, before she boldly addressed the captain again with some questions and statements. <br/>
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"Should Ellen and I simply call you captain? I would like to state that I wish for my sister to be at my side at all times while on duty. I cannot see the reason for her to be cooped up in that hell hole the whole day while she could be enjoying her time with me and be safe. You wouldn't have to worry about her at all, which I'm sure would take off some of the baggage that you're currently carrying with two women being here on board. Should you be unable to carry out my request, I ask that Ellen be under the young man who told everyone to shut up earlier. He doesn't seem to be like the rest of them and I would feel comfortable if he watched over her." <br/>
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Joanna savored another bite and glanced up at the captain.<br/>
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"Would that be acceptable?"</span>