Salted Skies (3 Part Story)
May 13, 2023 7:53:38 GMT -5
Judas D'arc, Alithea Moon, and 1 more like this
Post by William Castle on May 13, 2023 7:53:38 GMT -5
Two women similar in age walked their way through Minoc along the narrow cobblestone streets. The sounds of pickaxes chipping away rock can be heared in the distance from the reopened mines as miners work tirelessly. The smell of smoldering coal and burning forges fills the air, emanating from the blacksmith shops. In the center of the city, the town square buzzes with life as vendors sell fresh produce, animal pelts, and rare gems and minerals collected from the mines. Chatter of merchants bartering with customers blends with the clinking of coins exchanging hands. As the sun sets over the mountains, the orange glow illuminates the city, casting a warm light on the streets and buildings.
River is a captivating and shrewd pirate who has sworn allegiance to William Castle since parting ways with the notorious pirate crew, the Silver Crows. Although she stands at a shorter stature compared to her fellow mercenaries, her long flame-red hair and striking looks make for an unmistakable presence in any port. River's accent, which does not match her appearance, adds to her mystique.
Keylith is a resilient and talented young Drow who has overcome significant obstacles in her life. Now in her mid-twenties, Keylith is a formidable archer with a natural proficiency for dark magic that she often chooses to withhold. Her striking appearance includes dark skin, long white hair, lavender eyes, and pink lips, attracts many women with whom she can be flirtatious and direct.
As Keylith and River make their way to The Settlement, they cannot help but be struck by the rugged and hardy nature of the newly constructed village. The buildings are made of robust timber and stone, and the villagers themselves seem to weather the elements with unparalleled resilience. Though it is not an easy place to live, there is a powerful sense of community amongst the villagers, and a deep respect for the land and sea.
The coast in lined with fishermen hard at work, their small boats venturing out into the deeper waters to bring back a catch of fish. Some villagers are involved in crafting various goods from pottery to leather goods, taking advantage of the natural resources in the area. The sounds of their handiwork fill the air, along with the clanging of the blacksmith's hammer in the forge.
In the centre of the village, they come across the great hall, humorously named “The King’s Head.” It is a sight to behold with its grand timber construction and intricate carvings depicting scenes of battle and Viking deities. At night the hall comes to life, filled with music, dance, feasting and storytelling, a celebration of life amidst the harsh environment.
Keylith and River make their way to the barracks, Inside, there are rows of straw-filled beds, each belonging to a member of the Rovers. The walls are made of timber and stone, with a thatched roof and small windows to let in light and fresh air. Though not built for luxury, it is a warm and welcome respite for the Rovers during hardships.
The two await William's arrival, they feel the deep sense of respect and admiration that the villagers have for their land and their community. They have experienced firsthand the harshness of life in these coastal regions but also the rich bonds of community and the unique spirit of survival and resilience. There the two wait for William Castle.
Keylith and River take a moment to discuss their experiences with The Bear Captain. They find a quiet spot inside the barracks, away from prying eyes and ears.
"So, River, how did you end up meeting William?" Keylith asks, breaking the silence.
River smiled a bit as the memory returned to her. "We met while I was workin' for The Silver Crow Buccaneers... local pirate group, I was just a nobody to them. Then all ye came along and I got close with William. I decided I wanted a new scene, he saw me for what I was worth, trusted me to be his mouth piece and lead when he was unable.. So, I been at his side ever since. Not even the gods could drag me from his side."
"It seems like he has a knack for taking in lost causes and turning them into fierce warriors," Keylith replies with a slight smile.
River snorted out a laugh and nudged Keylith with her elbow, "I was a fierce warrior before he found me, lass. He just made sure I got my due respect. Now, how did ye meet the Bear Cap'n?"
Keylith takes a deep breath before answering. "I was enslaved on a ship, packed below deck. William found me there, still chained up. He took pity on me, knowing that I, as a Drow, would have a difficult time surviving on my own. He adopted me as his daughter, and we've been together ever since."
River awed softly, "'es a big cuddle bear! But 'e was right, ye would not o' survived. Drow get a bad rap around 'ere. I am glad 'e saved ye.”
"Me too, He's the only family I have left," Keylith replies, a hint of sadness in her voice.
As the two continue to talk, they hear a commotion in the distance. "Looks like the Bear is 'ere," River says, standing up.
The two make their way towards the commotion, eager to meet with William Castle.
William confronts the pair with news of another job.
"Ladies, I have an opportunity for us to earn a considerable amount of coin," he says, a smile spreading across his face.
"Wha' sort of job?" River asks with interest.
"A straightforward one. We've been approached by two scholars who need help moving scrolls from Minoc to Britain. They're willing to pay handsomely for our services. Are you two up for it?" William explains.
Keylith and River exchange a look before nodding their approval. "We're in," Keylith says confidently, while River adds, "Sounds like an easy job for the three of us."
William smiles approvingly. "Good. We don't want to keep them waiting. Let's make our way to the Minoc Docks and prepare the ship. We set off first thing in the morning."
The three quickly make their way to the docks and start preparing the ship for the voyage ahead. Keylith is in charge of overseeing the loading and unloading of the cargo while River ensures that the ship's navigational charts and other equipment are in order.
As the Kraken’s Kiss leaves the port of Minoc, crewed by the William, Keylith and River, the inky blue sea envelops the ship. William, an experienced sailor, barks order to his crewmates, who scramble around the deck to adjust the sails and navigate the ship smoothly. Keylith, quick on her feet, expertly carries out William’s commands, while River steers the ship with a steady hand at the helm. The ship cuts through the waves, its sleek form slicing through the water with ease. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Kraken’s Kiss sails off toward the horizon.
Suddenly, the peaceful voyage takes a violent turn as two ships suddenly appear on the horizon and begin to attack The Kraken's Kiss with full force. William, River, and Keylith quickly realize that they are facing twelve highly skilled pirates determined to take the valuable cargo for themselves.