A Visit From King Neptune - Breaking News!
Deck Log Excerpt, January 11, 2012 :
At 0805 ships time, during morning colours, the ship's bell on the forecastle was run violently. The duty mate called out that an unknown object was present onboard. After a few seconds, King Neptune's envoy - commonly known as Davy Jones - came down to the main deck. Davy Jones greeted Captain Hanssen and inquired as to which ship it was and the state of her crew. Captain Hanssen, visibly nervous, stated that it was the good ship Sørlandet, crossing the equator for the first time in her history. The Captain had to admit that the crew were in a sorry state, with a large proportion of Pollywogs. Their foul, landlubber aroma obviously angered Davy Jones, who ordered the few Shellbacks onboard to group all of the Pollywogs under the forecastle. Captain Jones then relieved Captain Hanssen of his command and brought King Neptune and his court onboard. His Royal Highness then began his court session on the main deck, and the Pollywogs were brought forward in groups. After individual interrogations, the Pollywogs were summarily found guilty of the vile crime of never having crossed the equator. At 1115 ships time, following the necessary cleansing rituals, the former Pollywogs were blessed by Neptune and joined the growing ranks of Shellbacks smelling of the salty aroma of true sailors. As soon as court proceedings were completed, the sun broke out and the contrary winds that the ship had been battling for the last few days came around to a favourable direction. The ship is currently proceeding towards the island of Fernando de Noronha under topgallants. All is indeed well onboard.
For HRH Neptune's scribe,
Halvor S. Hanssen
Captain
Ship Sørlandet