Ships and captains

Vel and Dina, who was now wearing a much more sensible blouse, met up with their uncle at one of Point Conquest’s many docks. Fal turned out to have been summoned as well, already waiting alongside the exarch.

It had been and remained a nice day, the sun shining down on the circling gulls. Even so, there was a noticeable chill in the air. This far north summer was clearly ending, and the first signs of fall were making themselves known.

With a quick greeting out of the way, Kalran didn’t keep them in suspense about why they were there. The ships moored behind him gave everyone a clue anyway.

“As the three of you should be heading out on the mission soon, it’s about time you meet the ships and captains.”

He gestured to the three ships behind him, three elegant and beautifully adorned frigates.

“These are the ships Fi brought. Meet Swan’s Grace, Eagle’s Honor and… and Stormsaber.”

He briefly stopped and looked a bit annoyed before giving them the last name. Vel could guess why. It didn’t fit with the Royal Imperial Navy’s naming conventions for frigates, which meant it was likely a flagship. Those were named by their commanding officer free of convention. So, it was Fionne’s flagship, and the name probably irked Kal a bit as it echoed the name of his own flagship, the huge battleship called Storm’s Chosen. Vel actually liked the name. His aunt was known to be a skilled fencer, and the saber was her weapon of choice. It fit her and honored her Vashkai heritage. But that it annoyed her brother was probably not unintentional either.

“They look like fine ships, if a bit gaudy. I am hardly an expert though.”

Fal showed no nervousness or discomfort speaking in front of a lord exarch. Vel supposed that was understandable. The man had trained to be a battlemage, he may well have encountered the first minister or even the empress in the past. Kal nodded in response.

“Aye, so they are. They’re also equipped with 8 cast-iron cannons apiece.”

That was impressive. Cast-iron cannons, especially ones for shipboard use, were a relatively new development. During the civil war, bronze cannons that shot metal tipped spears had been the norm, and even now cast-iron ones that fired cast iron balls were still far from standard.

“Come, there’s more to see.”

Uncle Kal waved for them to follow him then led them around a wall, up some stairs, and then down some stairs. The group finally arrived at a different berth, where another three ships were docked. Two almost identical frigates were right next to each other, while one larger one had its own area all to itself. Vel could tell immediately that these were ships of the Western Aluvian Navy. They too were well made but were less ostentatious and only sparingly decorated, and sported timber of a dark color.

“These are the ships that will soon carry the three of you.” There was clear pride in Kal’s voice as he swept out his arm to indicate the three vessels. “Those two are the Spearthrust and Killstrike. The heavy frigate, which will be Vel’s command, is the Aluvian Fury.”

Vel couldn't help but smile at his uncle's clever snub of Fionne. She was in command of the mission, and yet her flagship would be smaller than that of her second in command. Kal had definitely done this for that exact reason too. If Vel remembered correctly, the orders had been that he had to supply three ships of equal size and crew complement at least. In other words, he was free to offer larger ships. Vel approved of his choice. The Aluvian Fury, while larger and heavier than the five smaller vessels, probably would have no trouble keeping up with them. It had large and sturdy masts capable of rigging massive sails.

“Spearthrust and Killstrike both carry 8 cast-iron pieces as well. Aluvian Fury a full 12.”

Fal, Dina, and Vel all gasped. That amounted to 28 cutting edge weapons of war, worth a small fortune. Kal grinned.

“We’ve spared no expense, only the best will do when I send my nephew and niece off into danger. Now, want to have a look aboard your ship, Velas?”

He did of course. The ship was moored, but not close enough to anything for a gangplank. As such a little boat had to row them out and they had to climb aboard.

It was a magnificent ship and, for the first time since being briefed about this mission, Vel found himself really looking forward to it.

After the tour Kal showed them a few smaller scout vessels he’d also be sending along with them, then took the three of them to meet the captains that would be assigned to the Aluvian ships.

The captain that would be serving directly beneath Vel on the Aluvian Fury was the very image of a grizzled old seaman yet spoke in the refined manner of nobility. He, very tactfully and without implying any disrespect, assured Vel that he would be able to rely on his expertise in all matters naval. Vel for his part thanked the man, who was called Captain Avlogg, and assured him he’d heed his advice.

Afterwards Uncle Kal took the trio to lunch, or he would have, if Dina hadn’t excused herself, stating she had something important to do. As such, the delicious lunch was split between only the three men.