As captain, Titch can order around any of the sailor NPCs.  The mercenary NPCs are independent, but at present are a bit demoralised and see the importance of helping out in their current circumstances to get the boat back in repair.<br/><br/>The Mercenary PCs had their own captain, though at present is incapacitated, giving PC mercenaries a little bit of leeway for independent action.  No one can order the NPC mercs around, but they will be willing to listen to reason at this point in time.