The Norktomb Chap

**The Norktomb Chap**, formerly known as the Gilded Gull, is a ship of significant status in the Confederation of Free Sailors, captained by Cpt Taves Bartnick, the youngest captain in Confederation history. Wydler Moon currently serves as First Mate.

## Early Years

### Construction

The Gilded Gull was commissioned and built in Ousurferia by the T&K Co in 1115 AV. The ship was a testament to the shipbuilding prowess of the T&K Co, boasting a sturdy hull and an impressive sail plan that allowed it to navigate the treacherous waters of Venthalia with ease. Originally captained by Cpt Boris Millard, ship was initially used for trade and transport, serving as a vital link between the various islands and territories of Venthalia.

#### Capture and Renaming

In 1123 AV, the Gilded Gull was captured by the crew of the Brewboy Jack. The ship was presented as a prize to Cpt Taves Bartnick by Cpt Lasko Loggins, in recognition of Bartnick's ascension to captaincy. Upon receiving the ship, Cpt Bartnick renamed it the "Norktomb Chap", after the Norktomb Road in Shtic Corprius, the community of slums Cpt Bartnick and Cpt Mane Avner once called home. This renaming marked a new chapter in the ship's history, as it became a part of the Confederation of Free Sailors (CFS) under Cpt Bartnick's command.

## Under the Command of Cpt Taves Bartnick

Under the command of Cpt Taves Bartnick, the Norktomb Chap became a symbol of the Confederation's commitment to freedom and justice. Cpt Bartnick, a seasoned sailor and strategic genius, led his crew through numerous battles and raids, with the Norktomb Chap playing a crucial role in their successes. The ship's sturdy construction and impressive speed allowed it to navigate through perilous situations, often turning the tide of battles in favor of the CFS. Throughout the early years of Cpt Bartnick's captaincy, he brought on childhood friend Mane Avner, who he made First Mate. During this time, the Norktomb Chap also served as the home for its diverse crew. Among them was Wydler Moon, a renowned Orcish wizard pirate who now serves as the First Mate under Cpt Bartnick's command. Moon's exceptional wizardry skills proved to be an invaluable asset to the crew, aiding them in numerous battles and raids. His ability to manipulate the world and cast powerful evocations has turned the tide of many encounters, earning him the respect of his crewmates.

## Departure of Cpt Mane Avner

The Norktomb Chap also saw the departure of its previous First Mate, Mane Avner. Avner, who was known for his strategic mind and ruthless tactics, left the ship in 1125 AV under circumstances that remain a matter of speculation. His departure marked a significant turning point in the ship's history, leading to the ascension of Wydler Moon to the position of First Mate. Cpt Mane Avner is now the captain of the Hellound, an infamous ship in the Great Fleet of Klans.

## Present Day

Today, the Norktomb Chap continues to sail under the command of Cpt Taves Bartnick. At 21 years of age in 1127 AV, Cpt Bartnick is the oldest member of the crew, with the entire crew typically consisting of young men under the age of 20. The ship remains a symbol of the Confederation's commitment to freedom and justice, and its crew continues to uphold these values in their actions. The ship's history, marked by numerous battles, notable figures, and significant events, contributes to its status as a ship of cultural importance in Venthalia. Despite the challenges and dangers they have faced, they have managed to navigate through them, often turning the tide of battles in their favor.