Cpt Henrietta Markum

## Captain Henrietta Markum

### Other Family

Queen Leonora II (first cousin), Cmdr Bernt Neyhart (first cousin), Sir Reginald (first cousin), Horace Markum (nephew), Princess Emilia Sylis (née Markum, aunt, deceased 1090), Lord Michael Markum (grandfather, deceased 1064)

## Allegiance

### Occupation

Captain's Table Member (1111-present, 16 years) Captain of the "Derringer" (1090-present, 37 years)

### Class

Fighter

**Cpt Henrietta Markum** is a renowned figure in the Confederation of Free Sailors (CFS), known for her strategic brilliance and indomitable spirit. Cpt Markum is captain of the galleon known as the Derringer, with Astrid serving as her First Mate. She has served on the CFS Captains table since 1111 AV, following her defection from the Althean Royal Navy. Despite being labeled a traitor by the Crown and stripped of her titles, Markum's influence and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the Confederation's course.

## Early Life

Henrietta Markum was born in 1069 AV in the city of Staunton, a bustling port city in the Kingdom of Althea. She was the firstborn child of Lord Agnes and Cpt Arnold Neyhart of House Markum, a noble family with a long and storied history. From a young age, Henrietta was exposed to the world of nobility and military strategy, her father being a respected figure in the Royal Navy. Her upbringing was marked by a rigorous education in the arts of diplomacy, politics, and warfare, preparing her for the responsibilities that would come with her birthright.

Growing up, Henrietta was close to her younger brother, Brisbane, who would later inherit the title of Lord of House Markum. The siblings shared a strong bond, often engaging in friendly competition that would later mirror the rivalry Henrietta would have with Cmdr Melodie Burgsord. Despite their competitive nature, the siblings were supportive of each other, their bond only strengthening over the years.

## Education and Rivalry with Melodie Burgsord

At the age of 17, Henrietta and Melodie Burgsord, the daughter of Commander Carter Burgsord, both enlisted at the Axton Naval Academy. The academy, known for its rigorous training and high standards, was the perfect environment for the competitive spirit between Henrietta and Melodie to flourish. Their rivalry, which began in their childhood, intensified as they both sought to outdo each other in their studies and training exercises. Their competition was not just limited to their academic and military training. As the heirs to their respective houses, both girls were acutely aware of the expectations placed upon them. This sense of responsibility, combined with their natural ambition, fueled their desire to excel and outdo each other. Despite the intense rivalry, there was a mutual respect between the two, each recognizing the other's skills and determination.

Henrietta's time at the Axton Naval Academy was instrumental in shaping her future military career. The rigorous training and academic curriculum provided her with a solid foundation in naval strategy and leadership. Her natural aptitude for strategy and her competitive spirit, honed by her rivalry with Burgsord, made her stand out among her peers. Her performance at the academy did not go unnoticed. Her instructors, impressed by her strategic acumen and leadership skills, saw great potential in her. This recognition further fueled her ambition and determination to excel in her military career. By the time she graduated from the academy, Henrietta was ready to embark on her journey in the Althean Royal Navy, setting the stage for her future accomplishments and challenges.

## Military Career

Upon graduating from the Axton Naval Academy, Henrietta Markum embarked on her career in the Althean Royal Navy with a fervor that quickly caught the attention of her superiors. Her strategic acumen, honed by her rigorous education and her ongoing rivalry with Melodie Burgsord, set her apart from her peers. In 1090 AV, just four years after her enlistment, she gained captaincy and became the captain of the galleon known as the Derringer. Her leadership of the Derringer was marked by a series of successful naval operations that further solidified her reputation as a skilled strategist and a capable leader.

Markum's success as a captain did not go unnoticed. By 1102 AV, her exceptional service and dedication to the Royal Navy earned her the rank of Commander. This promotion was a testament to her abilities and her commitment to the Navy. As a Commander, she continued to lead her crew with the same determination and strategic brilliance that had marked her early career. Her reputation grew, and she was respected not only for her military prowess but also for her leadership skills and her unwavering dedication to her duties.

## Defection to the Confederation of Free Sailors

In 1111 AV, Markum found herself at a crossroads. Despite her successful career in the Althean Royal Navy, she had grown increasingly disillusioned with the monarchy and the crown. The strict hierarchy, the politics, and the rigid ideologies of the Royal Navy began to chafe against her own beliefs and principles. She saw the injustices and corruption that were often overlooked or brushed under the rug, and she felt a growing sense of discontent. After much contemplation, she made the bold decision to defect to the Confederation of Free Sailors.

Defecting was not a decision Henrietta took lightly, and she knew that convincing her crew to join her would be a significant challenge. She was well-respected among her crew, many of whom had served under her for years and had come to admire her leadership and strategic brilliance. She spoke to them of her reasons for defecting, her disillusionment with the Royal Navy, and her belief in the principles of the Confederation. She did not sugarcoat the risks involved, but she also spoke of the freedom and opportunities that awaited them in the Confederation. In the end, only a few members opted to return home to their families, while the majority chose to follow her into the unknown.

Upon her arrival in Santigo, Henrietta was met with suspicion and hostility. As a former high-ranking officer of the Royal Navy, she was seen as an enemy. However, Henrietta was not deterred. She spoke eloquently of her reasons for defecting, criticizing the ideologies of the crown and expressing her admiration for the Confederation's principles of freedom and equality. Her words, combined with her reputation as a brilliant strategist, slowly began to sway the opinions of the Confederation's leadership. In addition to her persuasive arguments, Henrietta also demonstrated her commitment to the CFS through her actions. She led several successful naval operations, showcasing her strategic abilities and earning the respect of her new comrades. By the end of 1111 AV, her efforts had paid off. She was officially welcomed into the Confederation and was offered a seat at the Captains Table, marking her acceptance into CFS leadership.

## Role in the Confederation of Free Sailors

Upon her acceptance into the Confederation of Free Sailors, Henrietta quickly set about establishing her role within the organization. She brought with her a wealth of experience and knowledge from her time in the Althean Royal Navy, and she was eager to put these skills to use for the benefit of the CFS. She took on a leadership role, guiding strategic planning and operations, and her innovative tactics and strategies quickly earned her the respect of her peers. Cpt Markum's leadership style was markedly different from what was typically seen in the Royal Navy. She valued the input of her crew, fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect. This approach not only boosted morale but also led to more effective strategies, as crew members felt comfortable sharing their ideas and insights. Her leadership style was a breath of fresh air within the Confederation and contributed significantly to her success.

One of Captain Markum's most significant contributions to the Confederation was her ability to think outside the box. She was known for her unconventional strategies, which often caught their adversaries off guard and led to numerous victories. Her innovative tactics not only bolstered the Confederation's defenses but also allowed them to launch successful counterattacks against the Royal Navy. In addition to her strategic brilliance, Cpt Markum was also instrumental in strengthening the Confederation's alliances. She leveraged her diplomatic skills and her knowledge of the various factions within Venthalia to negotiate alliances and trade agreements, bolstering the Confederation's resources and support network. These alliances played a crucial role in the Confederation's ability to stand against the Royal Navy and the Althean Crown.

Over the years, Cpt Markum has become a revered figure within the CFS. Her strategic brilliance, leadership skills, and unwavering commitment to the Confederation's principles have left a lasting impact. She has been instrumental in shaping the Confederation's course, leading them through numerous battles and negotiations. Despite the challenges and opposition she has faced, Henrietta has remained steadfast in her commitment to the CFS. Her courage and determination have earned her the respect of her peers and the admiration of those who serve under her. Her story serves as a testament to the power of conviction and the strength of character, inspiring others within the Confederation to strive for excellence.