Vere muttered under his breath at the man's words. He had already been delayed long enough tonight, and this was one more thing between him and a good drink. He was ready to leave over an hour ago, before he noticed poorly secured lines on the quarterdeck. Even in port, he took his responsibilities ...

Deftly sliding the platters down onto the table, Vere finds an open space near Kaho and sits down as the captain finishes speaking.