Members of the crew fidgeted at the question, and Ray's grin faded, arms falling to her sides. Only one of them was known for getting into trouble; the others were fairly well behaved, considering the fact that they were, well, pirates. The first mate gave a resigned sigh when she stared at him meaningfully.

"There was... a close encounter the other day," he explained without emotion. "We were near another ship when it was attacked by some sort of... monster, and we fled as soon as we could. It tried to come after us when it was done with them."

Ray couldn't help but stare as a feeling of dread welled up inside her. She glanced at Ari and back at John. After a pause, she said slowly, "I think we may need to talk in private."