The Skylark

**The Skylark** is a renowned galleon in the Venthalia maritime community, captained by the distinguished Baagian shipwright and metallurgist, Cpt Lavinia Tooms. The ship serves as a mobile ship-workshop, enabling Captain Tooms to bring her unparalleled artisan skills directly to her clients as she sails around Venthalia. The Skylark is a symbol of hope and perseverance, crewed by approximately 100 young individuals who may have been deemed "lost" by society. Under the guidance of experienced sailors and tradesmen, the crew members learn essential skills, such as navigation, ship maintenance/construction, weaponsmithing, and trade negotiations, while forging strong bonds with their peers.

## Construction

Constructed in 1120 AV, The Skylark is a marvel of maritime engineering, showcasing the innovative prowess of its creator, Cpt Lavinia Tooms. The ship's armoring is constructed primarily from Waveforged Steel, a groundbreaking alloy invented by Lavinia's father, Adriano Tooms. This unique metal is known for its exceptional rigidity, melting temperature, and resistance to shock fractures, while remaining impossibly lightweight. The use of Waveforged Steel in the construction of the Skylark has resulted in a vessel of unparalleled durability and performance. The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a fully functional winch crane and a vast array of shipbuilding equipment. This allows the Skylark to serve as a mobile workshop, capable of performing a wide range of shipbuilding and repair tasks while at sea. The ship is also armed with advanced weaponry crafted by the esteemed artificer, Professor Ardd Boyett, ensuring its ability to defend itself in hostile situations.

## Crew

The crew of the Skylark is predominantly made up of young girls under the age of 20, many of whom are often overlooked in traditional trade industries. Captain Tooms prides herself on providing these girls a chance to prove themselves and develop their capabilities under her mentorship. Many of the crew members are runaways, homeless children, and orphans who are in desperate need of a safe haven and a purpose in life. By offering them steady employment and the opportunity to learn, Captain Tooms instills in them a sense of worth and accomplishment, transforming their lives in unimaginable ways.

## Operations

The Skylark operates as a traveling workshop, providing shipbuilding and repair services to clients across Venthalia. The ship's mobility allows it to reach clients in remote locations, offering them access to Captain Tooms' expertise and the superior quality of Waveforged Steel. The ship also serves as a mobile emporium, selling a wide range of ship equipment and supplies. The Skylark's operations are not limited to shipbuilding and repair. The ship also engages in trade, leveraging its extensive network of contacts and partnerships to facilitate the exchange of goods across Venthalia. This aspect of the ship's operations contributes significantly to its financial sustainability, ensuring its ability to continue providing its valuable services.

## Reputation

The Skylark's reputation is closely tied to that of its captain, Cpt Lavinia Tooms. Known for her mastery of Waveforged Steel technology and her commitment to social justice, Captain Tooms has earned the respect and admiration of the maritime community. The Skylark, as a manifestation of her values and expertise, shares in this esteem. The ship is known for its exceptional quality and performance, thanks to the use of Waveforged Steel in its construction. Its ability to serve as a mobile workshop is also highly regarded, offering a unique and valuable service to clients across Venthalia. The Skylark's commitment to providing opportunities for disadvantaged young individuals further enhances its reputation, demonstrating a commitment to social justice that sets it apart from other vessels.

## Notable Events

The Skylark has participated in several notable events and missions throughout its service. One of the most significant was its involvement in the defense of Burth Port during a raid by the Great Fleet of Klans in 1125 AV. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the Skylark and its crew managed to help repel the attackers, showcasing the ship's advanced weaponry and the crew's exceptional skills.

The Skylark has also been involved in several humanitarian missions, delivering essential supplies to communities affected by natural disasters. These missions have further enhanced the ship's reputation, demonstrating its commitment to helping those in need.

## Affiliations

The Skylark maintains strong affiliations with several prominent entities in Venthalia. It has a close working relationship with the Althean Royal Navy, providing them with state-of-the-art vessels and weaponry. The ship also collaborates with the Tramontano&Kotts Company (T&K Co), a prominent shipping and logistics company, to expand its shipping capabilities and reach. Despite the potential legal or financial ramifications, the Skylark also provides services to the Confederation of Free Sailors (CFS), a collective of pirates seeking fair treatment and representation. This affiliation demonstrates the ship's commitment to promoting equality and justice within the maritime community.