The Derringer

**The Derringer** is a legendary ship with a rich history that spans over several decades. The ship was initially captained by Royal Navy captain, Cpt Jeremy Tink. Following his death in battle, his First Mate, Henrietta Markum, took over the helm. In 1111 AV, the crew of the Derringer defected to the Confederation of Free Sailors (CFS), marking a significant turning point in the ship's history. Since joining the CFS, the Derringer has been a championing ship of female sailors and pirates, and has a strong history of battling the Royal Navy and the Great Fleet of Klans. Astrid Breck is the ship's current First Mate

## Commission and Early Years

The Derringer was commissioned by the Althean Royal Navy in 1085 AV. The ship was a product of the Althean shipbuilding tradition, known for its robust design and superior craftsmanship. The ship was initially captained by Cpt Jeremy Tink, a seasoned Gnomish sailor with a reputation for his strategic brilliance and leadership skills. Under his command, the Derringer participated in several naval operations, earning a reputation as a formidable force within the Royal Navy.

## Captaincy of Henrietta Markum

Following the death of Cpt Jeremy Tink in battle, his First Mate, Henrietta Markum, assumed the role of captain. Born in 1069 AV in the city of Staunton, Cpt Markum was the firstborn child of Lord Agnes and Cpt Arnold Markum of House Markum. She was a respected figure in the Royal Navy, known for her strategic brilliance and indomitable spirit. Under her leadership, the Derringer continued to serve the Royal Navy, participating in numerous naval operations and battles.

## Defection to the Confederation of Free Sailors

In 1111 AV, Henrietta Markum, by then Commander Markum, and the crew of the Derringer made the bold decision to defect to the Confederation of Free Sailors (CFS). This decision was driven by a growing disillusionment with the monarchy and the crown, and a belief in the principles of the CFS. Since joining the CFS, the Derringer has been a championing ship of female sailors and pirates. The ship has been instrumental in numerous battles against the Royal Navy and the Great Fleet of Klans, further cementing its reputation as a formidable force.

## The Derringer in the CFS

Upon joining the Confederation of Free Sailors, the Derringer quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with. The ship has participated in numerous naval operations against the Royal Navy and the Great Fleet of Klans. These operations often involved daring raids on enemy ships and strategic maneuvers that showcased the crew's tactical brilliance and combat prowess. One notable event was the Battle of the Sirens' Strait, where the Derringer led a small fleet of CFS ships against a larger Royal Navy force. Despite being outnumbered, the Derringer's crew managed to outmaneuver the enemy, resulting in a significant victory for the CFS.

The Derringer also became known for its strong female leadership. Captain Henrietta Markum and First Mate Astrid Breck are both respected figures within the CFS, admired for their courage, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to the Confederation's principles. Under their leadership, the Derringer became a symbol of empowerment for female sailors and pirates. The ship's crew, predominantly women, were known for their skill and tenacity, often taking on missions that other crews deemed too dangerous or challenging. This reputation earned the Derringer the nickname "The Maiden's Might" a title that the crew wore with pride.

In addition to its combat operations, the Derringer played a crucial role in the Confederation's efforts to liberate slaves from the Klans. The ship was often involved in rescue missions, freeing captives from Klans ships and bringing them to safety. One such mission was the Liberation of Inamortana, where the Derringer and a few other CFS ships managed to free hundreds of slave concubines from a Klans stronghold. These missions were dangerous and fraught with risk, but the Derringer's crew never wavered in their commitment to the cause. Their efforts not only saved countless lives but also dealt significant blows to the Klans' operations, further cementing the Derringer's reputation as a champion of freedom and justice.

## The Derringer's Family

The Derringer's family, as the crew is often referred to, is a diverse group of individuals united by their shared experiences and common goal. The family includes Captain Henrietta Markum, Captain Rhea Hawkins, First Mate Astrid Breck, and a crew of dedicated sailors and pirates. Each member of the Derringer's family has their own unique story, but they all share a common commitment to the principles of the CFS and a desire to fight against oppressive forces. Captain Henrietta Markum, a strategic genius and indomitable spirit, leads the Derringer's family. She is known for her unwavering commitment to the CFS and her dedication to her crew. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Derringer's course and ensuring its success. First Mate Astrid Breck, an Eldritch Knight with a love for weaponry, is another key member of the Derringer's family. Her life has been marked by tragedy, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Despite her personal loss, Astrid has remained steadfast in her commitment to the CFS and her personal mission to bring an end to the Great Fleet of Klans. The rest of the Derringer's family is made up of a diverse crew of sailors and pirates. Each crew member brings their own unique skills and experiences to the table, contributing to the overall strength and success of the Derringer.