NAME: Ruth Christian
RANK: First Lieutenant
AGE: 45
HAIR COLOR: Blonde, long
EYE COLOR: Green
HEIGHT: 5'4"


HISTORY:
Although born into a wealthy family, they were impoverished when her Uncle died and left many debts. She was married off at 15, but then sold by her farmer husband at market to a seaman when she was 20. Traveled with him aboard several ships and learned much about weaponry and sailing. The female Captain of one of the ships took
notice of her potential and offered her a position as Midshipman She has served in the Royal Navy for over 20 years and is perfectly content as a Lieutenant - she has no ambitions to become Captain.

PERSONALITY:
She loves the fresh sea air, hard work, and the danger that go along with being a seaman. Has a deep mistrust of men in general. She's tough and is unquestionably loyal to the Royal Navy. Her cousin, Fletcher Christian, began the mutiny aboard the "HMS Bounty." She has had to overcome many obstacles in her path to becoming an officer, but she is driven. She is more comfortable having an ale and a good laugh with the other female officers in the wardroom than she would ever be at Almack's, dressed in her finest and sipping champagne. She does not judge anyone by his or her appearance and takes great offense when she is judged by hers. She has a dry wit and a fondness for animals. She is addicted to chocolate and coffee.

The Heat of Battle:

The First Lieutenant would be the first to engage. She is brave and independent to a fault. She has no fear of pain and has quite a few scars. She is more than willing to give her life for her country. She finds a good fight invigorating. She is knowledgeable in various weaponry.

Being Alone with a Man:

Having served in the RN for so many years, she knows that is a /bad idea/. And she will severely chastise any of her sister officers she catches in such a situation - for their own benefit. Even though women are accepted, they are still viewed with disdain and, for the most part, considered easy (which is not helped by the fact that many women from brothels serve as crew). Although she is always professional, she does take offense when a male officer treats with less than the proper respect for her station; she earned it as well as they did. Although married twice (forced marriage and sold to another), she has never had a romantic relationship.

Relationships:

She is always worried about those around her, which does not always coincide with her position as an officer. She finds corporal punishment repulsive, but understands it is a necessary part of naval discipline. Being a woman and an officer has always kept her separated from others, so she will find it extremely difficult to talk about personal matters. She will have a hard time on board this ship of women not to be over protective of other women. She despises thieves because, on a ship, everyone suffers for their ways. She is a patient teacher.