Not alone

A few days later, everyone is beginning to get a bit antsy. No one really knew how long the journey would be, but it’s been over a week now, and there’s been nothing but ocean. Captain Ben assured you that you’re still traveling in the direction you’re meant to, and adds that even with a ship this fast, the trip will take time. Fortunately, you’re carrying enough supplies for the crew to last far longer.

However, after another day, smoke is spotted. Eileen spots it first, her keen vision noticing the speck on the horizon before anyone else. That speck off the bow grows larger quickly, and before long, everyone realizes that it’s a boat. And it’s not smoke, but steam. And it’s headed directly for you, against the wind.

At the same time, the wind seems to stop. Your wind mages attempt to get the ship moving, but to no avail. Something is countering their efforts. And the other ship comes on, rapidly.

The captain grabs a spyglass, and the mood dampens from what he sees. “No guarantee, but they don’t look friendly. You generally don’t charge with blades drawn if you want to have a chat.”

You sigh. “I suppose we should avoid them, right? No reason for fighting if we can avoid it.”

Ben nods. “I’ll try, but they’re coming straight against the wind, somehow. With that steam, I’d say they have some kind of engine, but that shouldn’t work here. Without the wind, it’ll be hard to outrun them.”

With that, he strides across the deck, spinning off orders. Everyone springs into action, and the boat groans as Ben steers away from the oncoming ship. Unfortunately, they mirror your movements, and soon they are close enough to see unaided.

The ship is about the same size as yours, but of a different design. Only a single mast, but steam pours from a vent to the rear. The crew seem mostly intent on your ship, several manning what appears to be small ballista, loaded with grappling hooks.

You turn to Captain Ben. “They’re planning on boarding us. I’ll need everyone you can spare for defense.”

Ben nods, and several men run below decks to grab weapons as the opposing ship pulls closer alongside yours. The ballista fire, and neatly hook the rails of your ship, and they begin cranking the chains attached to them, pulling you closer. Resigned to this, you draw Caliburn, planting your feet to await boarders. At your right hand, Ferra assumes her combat form, her orange eyes glowing brightly.

She turns to you. “What do we do with these people? Are they enemies?”

You nod. “Yes. If this goes how I expect, this shouldn’t take long. Try to leave a couple alive.”

To your other side, the bunny girl Heather chuckles, spinning a sword deftly in her hand. “So confident! Can I ask why?”

You smile. “Ferra is a walking blender. You’ve never gone against her full speed. And my sword is…special.”

A few of the crew have gathered weapons, and stand with you as well. With a final crash, the two ships are tightly bound together, and the crew of…pirates, you suppose, charge across. As the first of the pirates leaps across to your ship, an arrow sprouts from his eye. A glance back shows a grim faced Eileen nocking another arrow. You nod, and ready yourself for the rush.