In the misty light before dawn, the pirate ship Reckoning is anchored in a cove a few hours south of Mazirin. A dense forest crowds the shoreline, and to the south, the crew can see the outlines of a tiny fishing hamlet clinging to the headland.
On the quarterdeck, Lady Izmeralda continues her tale to Rhyll and Baj. Benning, Vendig and Almira sit nearby, taking it in.
"Before Sarrik was a Kingdom, it was only a collection of small baronies. Galin was the man who made it whole. By hook and by crook, he unified, conquered, or raided all of his rivals into submission. They acclaimed him King and his descendants still sit the throne he made. But before he was King, Captain Galin was a canny man, and he had caches of treasure from the Crimson Coast to the far isles...for stormy days, it was said."
Dacien returns to tug at Baj's sleeve."Mister Mirko, if there's to be a party going ashore for Mazirin, I should go along and pay our respects to Migalen. We owes him more than a few dragons for the tip on that Sarrie merchant we took a few months back, sir. And he was more than a bit fond of Cap'n Tyree, he'll want to hear the news first hand, sir."
Baj nods at Dacien and pulls a small pouch from his belt, "I haven't forgotten our friends, Dacien. I was going to pay our debt myself, but I may be busy with the Captain. Why don't you see to it? And see if any other information is to be had on the docks while you're at it." He drops the pouch into Dacien's waiting hand.
Dacien makes the pouch disappear and nods to Baj, "Aye, sir."
Izmeralda continues, "The greatest of these, he planned to use to pay for the new royal fortress he'd build in Port Kalida. A hundred thousand dragons, all told. But on its way up the coast, the ship was attacked...by a Dragha. The treasure, King Galin thought, all went to the bottom of the Sunrise Sea. But he was mistaken. The legend is that the Dragha took the treasure--all of it, every coin--and hid it far away, in the Yandar Isles. On an island with three mountain peaks, far out past where no ships go." A legend you've heard before: the Fool's Hoard. A hundred thousand dragons is a sum fit for any King.
Rhyll waits on the ladies words then prompts, "And you were searching for this treasure?"
Baj sighs and frowns, "Milady, every pirate knows these tales and dozens of journeys have sent hundreds of men to their deaths searching for the Fool's Treasure."
Izmeralda nods. "We had it on good authority that the treasure existed. The governor sent two ships into the isles. But I fear it does not..only death awaits those who search."
Vendig taps his pipe, and snorts.
Rhyll says, "How did you manage to rile up the Dragha?"
Izmeralda says, "Of that, only the Kingsfire can tell you, Captain. We were separated. To make our search more efficient, once in the Kandan Reach, which is the most distant part of the archipelago, we split our forces. The Kingsfire went one way, and we another. We would meet again in three days time. But she never returned. So we turned back for home."
Rhyll plays a puzzled look on his face and says, "And yet the Dragha attacked both ships, most strange."
Baj nods, "The Dragha are an ancient and powerful race with many abilities known and unknown. It is possible that one could have learned of one ship from the crew of the other."
Izmeralda says, "I must report this news to the Governor. And I am sure the Governor will reward you for bringing me back safely with this tale."
Dacien clears his throat, "Captain Rhyll, sir, how many boats will ye be needin' fer the trip ashore?"
Rhyll at Dacien's words Rhyll turns to Baj and says, "I should think one should be sufficient, how's that sound to you Mister Mirko?"
Baj says, "It seems prudent, Captain."
Rhyll returns back to the lady's tale. "Hmm, still odd. The other ship posed no threat yet the Dragha flew all the way after it and torched it. Very odd indeed Mister Mirko."
Dacien nods, "One boat for the first load it is, Cap'n" He moves off to ready the boat.
Rhyll says, "Are you sure your ship had no dealings with the Dragha, my lady?"
"How could I swear to you, so that you would believe me, Captain?" the lady asks.
Rhyll says, "Oh, no need dear lady, a splendid tale. Now I think I better escort you back to your quarters for awhile."
Rhyll offers Izmeralda his arm.
Dacien starts to round up crew for the longboat, "Candra, the Cap'n and Mister Mirko are goin' ashore, they'll be needin' a detail to go with fer protection. And a second group to guard the boats after they've gone." He looks to the masthead and whistles loudly, "Deeshon, get yer' carcass down here."
The Tobon lookout rouses and scrambles down the mast, standing before Dacien on his skinny legs.
Dacien leans close to Deeshon, "You and me are goin' into town. I have to pay our respects to Migalen on the docks and I'm needin' someone to watch me back in the city." He feels a debt is owed to Migalen on the docks for information he gave us that lead to a ship the Reckoning captured.
Deeshon says to Dacien, "I'll bring my darter." He means his little crossbow, which he is fond of.
Dacien nods and moves around the deck, adding his picks for oarsmen to Candra's fighters.
Candra is busy choosing bodyguards for the Captain's detail. She points at her personal selections, and makes sure each is armed.
Candra speaks gruffly to Erris, gesturing at the boat, but Erris politely refuses the Urag's invitation.
Kell loads his best fishing spears into the longboat. He's already volunteered his services for Candra's shore party.
Vendig loads casks of supplies into the Captain's longboat.
Izmeralda doesn't take the Captain's arm. "What do you plan to do with me, Captain?" she asks.
Rhyll turns to Izmeralda and says, "Hmm, I still haven't quite decided what to do with you, my dear, but I guess it would be alright for you to come for the ride ashore."
Rhyll says, "Dacien send Candra topside, I have a special job for her."
Dacien nods to the Captain and calls out, "Candra, the Cap'n would like a word with ye."
Candra looks angrily over her shoulder at Erris and nods compliance with Dacien. She clambers up the short ladder to the quarterdeck. "Aye, my Captain?" she asks.
Rhyll says, "Mistress Candra, I have a special job for you. We will be traveling to Mazirin. I would like you to act as lady Izmeralda's personal body guard."
Candra glances towards the delicate dark skinned woman and flashes her fanged smile. "With pleasure, my Captain!" she growls.
Rhyll smiles and says, "I have the utmost confidence that you will let nothing befall our honored guest Candra, my thanks in advance."
Baj says, "Captain, perhaps I should stay with the ship. Just in case."
Rhyll says, "Good thinking Mister Mirko. Can't leave the ship unattended now, can we. These boys are apt to get into all kinds of mischief."
Baj nods, "Trouble, aye, sir. My thoughts precisely."
Almira announces, imperiously, "I will not travel to Mazirin, Captain. The damp climate gives me ague."
Baj pulls himself up to his full height and stares into the tall wizards eyes, "Excellent, sir! You can finally teach me the rudiments of chess."
Almira says, "Finally, the game is called by its proper name. Not eight-square, as you barbarians style it. Have I mentioned that it was invented in Dhazir?"
Rhyll says, "That's fine, Almira. Next trip maybe!" then gestures to Baj to join him at the rail, "A word in private Mister Mirko if you would."
Baj moves quickly to Rhyll's side, "Aye, Captain."
From the east, the first lights of dawn are becoming visible, the clouds over the Sunrise Sea just beginning to glow pink.
Rhyll looks over the rail at the small village in the distance, then says, "You know Baj I'd just as soon have you with me, but since my Captaincy is still quite young I need to know I have a loyal man onboard. I want you to make sure you have some men here you trust, to stay behind and watch your back."
Baj nods and extends his hand to Rhyll, "The ship and the crew will be waiting here for your return, Captain. On my honor."
At the port rail, Benning, as is his habit, bows his head in the dawn prayer to Ardis. Some of the hands join him in his supplication.
Rhyll takes Baj's hand and shakes it firmly, "Thanks Baj. I knew I could count on you."
Dacien pops up at Baj's elbow, "At your leisure, Cap'n. The boats are ready."
The shore party take their places in the longboat.
Benning sits glumly in the stern. Candra stays close to Izmeralda. Ferlan says goodbye to his brother Farlan and sets his hand on the longboat's tiller.
Seated near Candra are two warriors of her own choice: a young Vulkah named Thormun, who carries a crossbow and sword, and a tanned archer from Yandar named Soti.
Dacien hops nimbly into the longboat and takes a place in the bow.
Kell passes Dacien one of the boat's sweeps and takes the other for himself.
Dacien raises an eyebrow at Kell and passes the sweep to one of the other oarsmen, a wiry Mazirine named Drarn.
Rhyll hops on last, then waves to his crew and shouts, "Wish us well lads! Mister Mirko, the ship is yours till I return."
Baj moves to the rail and takes charge of the boat-lowering crew, "Aye, Captain." He motions to the men at the davits, "Lower away!"
Vendig calls, "Luck ride with ye, Captain!"
The boat is slowly and smoothly lowered into the dark water and drifts gently away from the Reckoning.
Rhyll waves back to Vendig then takes a seat up front near Benning.
Dawn is now just breaking on the cove, the first rays of the sun peering over the distant horizon.
Izmerelda blinks away fatigue from her dark eyes, then looks to the hulking Urag at her left with a shudder.
Kell and Drarn slip the long oars into the dark water and begin rowing slowly towards the shore.
Vendig stands beside Baj. "What d'you think of his chances, Baj?" he asks, as the two watch the longboat paddle away.
Baj stands still, deep in thought for a moment, and then claps the old Vulkah on the shoulder and smiles broadly, "He's the Captain, Vendig. He'll succeed."
Less than an hour later, the shore party emerges from the woodlands onto the Marsh Road, a north-south thoroughfare that connects Mazirin with many of the coastal towns. At this time of day, the road is empty, so you should be able to travel with little hindrance. The Marsh Gate is about four leagues to the north.
The Marsh Road is the southern outlier of the great Kingsroad that leads all the way to distant Port Kalida. At this stretch, it is a modest two lane highway, laid with close-set cobbles. On either side are scrubby trees and tall marsh grasses. Beyond, in the marsh, insects and frogs call to one another in the dawn.
A light spring rain patters down on the party.
Candra forcibly pulls the cloak of Izmeralda's hood up, to hide her features.
Benning asks Rhyll. "Well, here we are again, Captain, walking the King's own roads once more. What tale shall we tell those who ask why?"
Rhyll says, "Good question Mister Benning what tale takes your fancy?"
The party falls into formation, Drarn and Thormun up front, weapons hidden under cloaks, Soti and Ferlan bringing up the rear.
Deeshon says, "I like the 'pilgrims of Ardis' cover story myself, what say you, Dacien?"
Dacien chuckles softly, "Always a good go, there, Deeshon. Who'd pick on a poor pilgrim?"
Rhyll says, "Pilgrims? Ah, I like the sound of that, but what of our dear Urag lass, Benning? Think she can pass for a convert?"
Benning shakes his head, sadly, rolling his eyes. "As well as any of us can, Captain."
Candra growls something to herself in Urag-ta.
Deeshon chuckles, "Pilgrims, that's us, Dacien. I'll say a prayer for you when we reach the temple in the city."
Rhyll says, "Pilgrims it is then!" then pulls out a bottle from beneath his cloak raises it and says "To the good Lady!", takes a swig and passes it to Benning.
Dacien laughs aloud, "It'll take more time than we have to say alla the prayers my soul needs, eh, Candra?"
Rhyll says, "Easy on the grog mates, it's just to keep you warm in this cold rain we're having. Pass it around, don't be greedy."
Benning shakes his head, and passes the bottle to Dacien without sampling any.
Dacien takes a swig before passing the bottle along to Deeshon.
Candra banters with Dacien, "Maybe we could pray for him to grow..."
Dacien laughs again and grabs his crotch, "I put alla me growth energy inta things that matter, woman, if ye get ma drift."
From around the bend in front of you, hooves clatter, approaching. Two riders, by the sound of it, metal jangling against metal and leather.
Rhyll says quietly, "Heads down boys and no talking. Candra watch yer bird."
A pair of Maritime Knights, probably patrolling this stretch of highway against outlaws and people of low character, as if you knew any of those)=, gallop around the bend, and slow to a canter as they approach the party. They are armored, visored, and armed, and wear the livery of the King.
Dacien flips his cloak up over his head and hums an old hymn as he walks.
Candra squints a look of utter menace at Izmeralda, with the promise of violence to follow, should she transgress.
Rhyll says, "Lead us in prayer brother Benning."
Benning intones a real invocation to Ardis. "Lady of Life, we welcome you into our hearts..."
The lead Knight raises a hand and his visor. He's a sallow-skinned man with a dark walrus mustache. He looks bad tempered and perhaps hung over. "Good morning, travellers. We ride in the King's name. What do you here on his road?"
Rhyll clutches his sword under his cloak. He looks to Benning waiting for him to answer for the group.
Benning says, quietly, "Good morning to you, sir knight. We come in peace, humble pilgrims of the Lady seeking the city gates. We have travelled far on our mission...how is the road ahead?"
The knight spits on the road. He seems more contemptuous than anything else. "It's a fucking foul morning, priest. At least for you and your band of pilgrims. You see, there's a toll to pass. Two wineskins."
The other knight sets his hand on his sword and rides up behind his leader. "You can pay that, can't you?" he demands.
Under her hood, her head hung low, Izmeralda's eyes dart towards Candra, gauging her chances.
Rhyll says, "Master Benning, please let me pay the toll. I am so in your debt by the Lady's good name."
Dacien slides off to the side of the group to get a better angle of attack in case of trouble.
Benning smiles grimly. "Of course," he says to the party. "Hand over the spirits for the soldiers, my brethren. Theirs is thirsty work."
Candra sets a warning hand on Izmeralda's shoulder and squeezes.
Kell glowers at the knights in contempt.
Rhyll reaches into the supplies and withdraws two wine skins, then moves forward to offer then to the knight.
The hungover knight snatches them from Rhyll and tosses one to his subordinate. Then he turns back to Rhyll. "Do I know you, you little pissant?" he asks Rhyll.
Rhyll lowers his head and says, "I dare say not good knight. But perhaps you've seen me on the docks, before dedicating my life to the good Lady I was a sailor."
Dacien moans softly and falls to one knee, and shrieks, "Lady of Light, save me, the pain is too much!"
The knight gulps wine from the skin. Red wine runs down his chin and drips from his mustache. "Not bad..." he mutters. It's some of the Mazirin Red that you took from the Swiftsure. "What's the matter with the Tobon?"
Dacien says, "An illness, sir, I may have caught something in our travels."
Benning speaks up, "He has an ailment that may only be cured at the shrine in the city. We must hasten, with your permission, sir knight."
Rhyll confides, "He hopes that the Lady will have mercy on him and heal him of the pain that plagues him."
Dacien reaches a hand out to Deeshon, "Help me stand, brother."
The other knight interjects, "Let's let 'em go, Vason."
The hungover Vason nods, gulping more wine. "Yes, be on your way, pilgrims."
Deeshon helps Dacien to his feet.
Rhyll bows and moves out of the way for the knights to pass.
Dacien walks wearily along the road, appearing to lean heavily on Deeshon.
Rhyll shoots Candra a glance, hoping she will know to keep Izmeralda in line.
Vason kicks his horse forward, the other knight following. He gives Candra a sidelong glance, but the Urag resists temptation and averts her own eyes, squeezing Izmeralda's shoulder tightly.
Izmeralda gives an exaggerated shriek of pain.
Vason stops. He wipes wine from his mustache with the back of his hand. "Sounds like you got another sick one over there. In the hood."
Dacien says, "Sister, are you ill also? Have I given you my sickness?"
Rhyll turns and says, "Many of the sick and injured seek the mercies of the Lady."
Izmeralda throws back her hood, dark mane of hair spilling forth. "No!" she shrieks. "Let go of me!"
Dacien says, "It is the fever! She has the Typhus!"
Rhyll starts to cough loudly. "Many were sick in the last village we visited." He readies his sword beneath his cloak.
Vason cranes his neck around to look at Dacien. He hasn't recognized her. "What?" he cries, aghast at the mention of the dread plague.
The other knight, a younger man, pushes back his visor to get a better look at the woman. Recognition dawns in his eyes.
The two mounted knights are right in your midst now.
The younger knight gropes for his broadsword where it's sheathed next to his saddle. Deeshon gets there first, seizing the hilt, preventing the man from drawing.
Rhyll draws his sword and moves on the older knight.
Dacien swings loose his chain, rushing for the knights and trying to spook the horses, "Giddup, mule!" The trained horses stand their ground, however.
Fitting arrows to strings, Soti and Ferlan take aim on the leader, while Candra swings free her Urag sword, then charges on the other, lunging.
The second knight kicks his horse back, the animal giving a whinny of fright as weapons are drawn. Candra's strike goes wide as the man's horse rears.
Dacien swings his chain at the younger knight, clipping the man's armored helmet with a metallic thud. The knight shakes his head to clear it.
Soti and Ferlan unleash a volley of arrows on the leader. Soti's arrow catches the man under his ribs and he sways in the saddle, confused.
While his men battle the knight's Rhyll looks to see what his prisoner is up to. He calls "Watch our friend doesn't try and slip away!"
Thormun, backing up Candra, steals up behind Izmeralda. The young Vulkah draws a dagger, seizes her in his arms, and presses it to her neck, holding her secure. "Not being so fast, my lady!" he hisses.
Rhyll charges the older Knight flourishing his sword. "Too bad you didn't ride on!" he cries. He thrusts forward with his cutlass. The leader drops his wineskin, eyes going wide as Rhyll runs him through.
Blood streaming down his armored chest now, Vason blindly reaches for his sword, drawing it unsteadily.
The second knight deals Deeshon a clout across the face with his gloved hand, sending him flying, and pulls his sword clear, levelling it at Candra. He looks up the road, for a path of escape, but there are pirates all around them. As he turns back, Candra rushes forward again, swinging her blade in a flat arc. Her sword strikes the man's head clean off. It sails off into the marsh grass. His headless body slides from the saddle, spraying blood all over.
Dacien spins away from the falling knight and takes aim at his companion, striking swiftly. His chain coils about Vason's neck. The Tobon gives it a snap, and Vason's neck shatters, his eyes bulging as he collapses from horseback, dead before he hits the wet cobblestones. Vason's sword clatters to the roadway.
Dacien gives the chain a flip and it comes loose from the dead man's neck.
Soti and Ferlan scan the roadway to see if there were any witnesses to kill...but you are alone.
Izmeralda breathes a sigh, held securely by Thormun. "Useless..." she hisses.
Dacien points to Izmeralda, "Cap'n, that wench is trouble, she is. Better to slit her throat now than to take her into the Maze."
Rhyll strides angrily in Izmeralda's direction. "Dacien, Kell get these bodies off the road. You others secure the horses."
Dacien grabs Deeshon and moves toward Veson's body, "C'mon, Dees, let's clean up this mess."
Deeshon, interrupted from looting the knight's body, nods at Dacien and joins in to help.
Dacien scoops up one of the dropped wineskins and takes a large swallow before handing it to Deeshon.
Candra says, "I failed you, my Captain. I shall kill her myself."
Benning says a small prayer for the souls of the departed, as Kell hauls off Vason's body into the tall grass.
Rhyll steps up to face Izmeralda and says, "What an utter waste. You realize you cost those men their lives? Didn't you realize they didn't have a chance? I should take Dacien's advice, I should."
Izmeralda shrugs. "They swore an oath to serve Sarrik." She doesn't seem to care much that two men are dead.
Benning watches Rhyll, quietly.
Rhyll he continues, "Now for certain, we cannot take you into the city. You have made my choices very unpleasant, milady."