{ Hurt Prompts } 

Horatio’s jaw worked as he considered his answer. The bruising in question was courtesy of one of the more recently pressed men – and though it was unacceptable by the articles, the man’s plight was one Horatio believed would only be exacerbated by the sort of discipline his actions would incur if brought to the captain. This was something that could be managed, and would doubtless pass as the man settled – presently, Oldroyd was looking after him, and Horatio had no doubt his men would get the fellow settled in short order. 

Nevertheless, Horatio found when he glanced toward the captain after too long silent, he knew that to lie would be a grave error. His punishment aboard the Justinian for just such an offense as a midshipman sprang to mind, though he found the impending threat of Pellew’s disappointment to be a far greater motivation toward speaking truthfully now, rather than having it come about in another manner. 

“A slight disagreement with one of our newer crew members, sir. Nothing that is not already being handled.” If he could refrain from the name, then by God, he would do so. “I assure you sir, it is not so nearly bad as it looks. Matthews is preparing a mixture so it may be better concealed, however.”