Moonlight on the Water (Chapter 5)

>The tall mast of the oncoming ship blots out the sun as it comes closer.
>You recognize its class; it was a ship of the line from the Royal Navy. But what was a warship doing all the way out here?
>If it wanted to, that ship would easily rip and tear your boat like tissue paper but you had no idea if they could even see you.
>Running to the main mast, you ring the ship’s bell to warn them of their approach. Their vessel had to be at least 50 metres long.
>You move back to the helm and adjust your ship accordingly. The best you could do was drift side by side with them rather than letting them smash the Nimue to bits.
>Looking at the map, you can see that the lights were still shining brightly. You wouldn’t want them to see this.
>You quickly fold the piece of paper and tuck it away in your pocket and went back to manning the helm.
>As the large ship begins to slowly catch up and drift alongside the ship, you hear something.
>Whistling accompanied by the stomping of boots on the deck.
>Then you hear voices as they begin to sing.
( http://youtu.be/pBHFE4AJKU0?t=40s)
>”A song to sing for beggars, a song to sing for saints;
A song to sing for wealthy men, all wrapped and bound in chains!
Our treasure's not in gold, or in our piety:
Our wealth is in an answered call, the longing of the sea!
Stormy oceans carry us to lands we've never known,
To mysteries and buried secrets from the tales of old.
So hoist the sail and raise the flag, we do not stop for night -
We'll ride the wild winds and waves until the morning's light!”
>The singing stops but you could still hear the music continue. The ship was at least ten feet tall, so it was hard to see who was on deck.
>The music comes to a halt.
>A head pops out from over the railing and is staring down at you. It was an old man with short grey hair and a receding hairline. His mutton chops would put your uncle’s to shame if he ever saw them. In his mouth was a pipe but it was hard to tell if he was smoking anything due to all the fog.
>The man waves his hand behind him and the chattering of the crew stops. He pulls the pipe from his thin lips and squints his eyes to get a closer look at you.
>He reaches down to his pockets and pulls out a pair of glasses which he places on his face. He speaks with a thick cockney accent at fast pace, making him hard to understand.
>"What's a yank doin' out ‘ere in such a battered ol' dub-a-dub-dub?"
“I uh... I beg your pardon?”
>He repeats himself again. "What's a yank doin' out ‘ere in such a battered ol' dub-a-dub-dub?"
>You feel flustered from not understanding what he’s saying.
>Another head pops over the edge. This man looks younger but his head is clean shaven. He too speaks with a cockney accent, albeit lighter. “He wants to know what a bloke like you is doing out here on that dinghy!”
>Dinghy?!
>The old man spoke up again, “Are you deaf as well, boy? Speak up!”
“I’m from Newfoundland, Canada, sir. I’m just on my way to Qaqortoq.”
>”How long you been out here? You’re nothing but skin and bones!” The two men laugh heartily.
>You’re not a big person, but you weren’t starving either.
>“Alright lads, secure his ship and bring him aboard!” The two men disappear over the railing.
>Wait, what?
>Several men appear over the railing and rappel down the side of the ship with ropes tethered around their waist.
>Using the ropes, they secure them to the railing of your ship to theirs, and over the side a crude rope ladder dangles. The men start to push you towards the ladder as you haphazardly make your ascent to their ship.
>Were you about to be abducted?
>The three men below you keep laughing as you scramble over the railing. As soon as you got to the top,  you saw the other two men bringing out crates filled with glass bottles.
>The older gent was a heavy grandfather figure, but he was stronger than his looks would tell. He hoists one of the large wooden crates over his shoulder as if it were nothing. “Welcome aboard, now come and drink with us. You must’ve been out at sea for quite some time now.”
>The other men that were behind you leap over the railing and begin to indulge in the drinks that the old man has generously offered.
>From what you’ve seen, there were five men so far on this ship. If there were more below deck, you couldn’t be sure. You weren’t expecting this kind of welcome at all.
>But this was the first human contact you had in many weeks.
>And you didn’t mind a good drink once in a while considering you didn’t bring any with you.
>The old man passes you a dark green bottle with the cork already taken out. You take a quick swig of the beer and shudder slightly at its strong bitter taste.
>The men laugh loudly as one of them pats your back. “Oi, this one is a bit of a lightweight, see?”
>You chuckle at his comment.
“I’m sorry, not quite use to drinks this strong.”
>You muster your nerves and endure another quick sip despite the overpowering flavour. The old man takes his seat on top of one of the wooden crates. “I’m Captain Scully. This here be John, our Sailing Master.” He points to a tall, thin man with a small beard on his chin.
>John merely nods his head.
>”Those two knuckle-heads over there are the Dover boys.” Two young, spry men with wild dirty blonde hair reach for the same bottle of beer and begin squabbling over it. “You two had enough!” Captain Scully barks at them. “Go and finish your duties!”
>The twins mutter to themselves before dragging their feet to carry on with their chores.
>Captain Scully continues. “Finally, this tiny man here be my nephew Winslow.”
>His nephew was anything but tiny. This lug stood well over any man on this ship, or any people you knew for that matter. His bulging biceps and large frame was a rather intimidating presence. He leans against the railing, sipping on the bottle that was about the size of a thimble compared to him.
“Glad to make your acquaintance. All of you...”
>Scully places an empty bottle back in the crate and waddles over to you. “You must be a crazy bloke to be out here all by yourself. How are you not dead?”
“Well, I uh... had some experience sailing when I was a boy. I don’t mean to change the subject but, would it be possible for a bit of supplies? I have some money on my ship and-“
>You were cut short by Scully bursting out with a hearty laugh. “Oh, listen to this one! He sounds like he be scared of asking.”
>He pats you firmly on the back with an open hand. “Aye, soft spoken just like me mother this one. Bless her heart...”
>You could feel a red glow burning in your face. You didn’t think of yourself feminine in anyway, but these men apparently did.
>”Aw don’t be like that now, just havin’ some fun now, right boys?” Scully reaches into the crate and pulls out another bottle for himself.
>”Truth be told, world could use more gentle souls these days. Too many... boisterous peacocks who think the world owes them everything. But you son, I... I uh...” He pauses awkwardly.
>”I don’t think I caught your name yet, son.”
“It’s Anon, sir.”
>”Huh.... must be French or something.” The captain hoists himself from his sitting position and lumbers over to John. “See what we can do about our windless situation, will you?”
>John nods. “Yes sir.” He then heads over to the helm.
>Scully turns to his nephew. “Winslow, go make yourself useful and pack a crate for our guest here. Best we send him off with some decent stock.”
>You look to the brute, fearing that Scully’s harsh words would tip a lug like him into a frenzy. Winslow nods compliantly and makes his way below deck.
>The captain chuckles. “Don’t let his size scare you. He’s a strong fella but he’s as gentle as a lamb, especially when he drinks.”
“Most folks I know back home are not so fortunate to be blessed with such chemistry.”
>”I know that all too well. Alcoholism runs rampant in some of my family. Thankfully I’m a man who can hold his liquor and his tongue.” He gingerly sips more of the potent brew.
“I thank you for your hospitality, but if you’ll excuse me I should get back to my ship so I can pay you for the goods.”
>The captain gives a shocked look. “My lad, a small crate of supplies is no skin off my nose. Besides, the wind is dead. Neither of us are going anywhere until it picks up. Best you stay here for the meantime.”
“I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t repay you in some way.”
>”Don’t worry about that for now. It’s just nice to have some decent company to talk to. You seem like a smart bloke, I’m sure.” Scully pulls out his pipe and begins to stuff it with tobacco.
>You eye the smoking pipe and feel the itch to smoke. You pat yourself down and find you have your pipe, but no tobacco.
>”You smoke? I can lend you some if you want.”
“I have my favourite blend in my own storage. I’ll go get it.”
>Just then, Winslow pops up from below deck with a wooden crate. “All done.” He groans.
>He drops the container in front of you and you hear the contents rattle within. Captain Scully stands up and lightly smacks Winslow on the shoulder. “Don’t drop it like a piece of meat for a dog, you bleedin’ idiot! Help carry it to his ship.”
“It’s no trouble, really...”
>”Sorry uncle.” He sluggishly replies.
>With no effort, Winslow picks up the crate over one shoulder and heads to the rope ladder leading down to your ship. You follow close behind him.
>”Where you heading off to?”
>You stop dead in your tracks.
“To... put the stuff away?”
>Captain Scully slowly walks over, eyeing you closely. “You saying you don’t trust him to put it away for you?” His words were slow and deliberate.
>Your mind begins to race; all you could think of was Luna being discovered.
“No. It’s just, I have my stuff all set up and I wouldn’t want any of it moved.”
>Scully inhales deeply from his lit pipe. The thick white smoke slowly escapes from his flared nostrils.
>His eyes quickly shift to your schooner and back to you.
>You could feel your heart pounding within your ribcage.
>His somber tone rapidly changes to a jubilant smile as he belts out a jolly laughter. You stand there confused at this sudden change.
>His laugh turns into a cough as he turns his head, but regains his composure. You manage to crack a small smile, not sure what was so funny.
>”Well, you better go and help Winslow with the stuff then, aye?”
>You nod to him, and then quickly shimmy down the rope ladder. There the big brute was waiting for you.
“Okay, uh... put it down here by the hatch. I need to go grab the keys. You’ve been a big help!”
>Winslow grunts, probably to say he was glad to help. He plods away and slowly makes his way up the ladder back to his ship.
>Close call.
>You scramble to the helm where you kept the keys. Of course you didn’t lock the hatch, but you couldn’t just go straight below deck. You had to play the part.
>You fumble with the keys and place it in the lock. Pulling the hatch ever so slightly, you peer inside but don’t see Luna.
>You grab the heavy crate and slowly descend below deck. You drop the goods and close the hatch behind you.
>Dragging the container, you bring it to the sleeping quarters where Luna is laying down. She looks to you with her sparkling eyes and raises her head. “What’s happening out there? I thought I heard voices.”
“Shhh...”
>”Don’t shush me, human. I asked you a question and-“
”SHHH!”
>You pause for a moment to listen for any sounds.
>Nothing.
>You speak in a quiet whisper.
“We’re latched onto this ship. The captain and his crew are decent men, but they came this close to coming below deck.”
>Luna manages to speak quietly for the first time. “And this is a problem?”
“If they find you, there’s a good chance they might abduct you.”
>Luna’s eyes light up, finally she understands the serious nature of-
>”Your breath smells weird.”
>Your mind skips a beat briefly. You cup a hand over your mouth, breathe into it and take a quick sniff.
>Didn’t think the smell of beer would leave a scent this strong.
“Listen, just... stay put while I entertain them. As soon as the wind starts up, we leave.”
>Luna lays her head down, ears flat against her skull as you get up to leave. “This is not how you treat a lady...”
“I’m really sorry. Help yourself to whatever is in the crate, just go easy on it. We still got a way to go.”
>On your way through the storage, you grab some of your finest tobacco.
>Your head pops out from below deck. Scanning all around, you don’t see anyone else.
>You climb up the rope ladder to see the Captain still sitting on a crate with a beer in his hand. John walks by and joins in.
>Captain Scully waves to you. “I trust the provisions were well suited for your travels.”
“It’s more than generous, sir.”
>”Forget formalities, just call me Scully.”
“Yes sir.”
>The captain eyes you, but you burst out laughing, even though it was of the nervous variety. Scully and John join you in laughter as well.
>”Aye, that’s a good one.” Scully takes another sip of his beer.
“Do you have any one else on this ship, or is it just the five of you travelling?”
>”That it is. We’re just a small group of traders, and this will be our first trip to Canada.”
>You pull out your tobacco and begin to delicately stuff your pipe with the mix. Scully eyes you carefully. “Fancy a fag once in a while?”
“Not really, I prefer it this way. Gives a richer scent overall. This is pure Indian Tobacco.”
>”You don’t say...” Captain Scully wipes off his pipe with a handkerchief.
>You grab your container of tobacco and hand it to him.
“Please try some, I guarantee this stuff is better than any cigar or cigarette you can find.”
>As the captain begins to stuff his pipe, you notice John walking away without saying a word.
“Is he always this quiet?”
>”Hm? That fellow? Yeah, but he’s sharp as a tack that one. That’s why I made him my Sailing Master. But you, I’m surprised you’re out here all alone, especially so far from home. You must be pretty good at navigation and sailing to man a schooner like that solo.”
>You strike a match against a crate and hold the tender flame over your pipe until the tobacco caught fire.
>A single puff of the heavenly aroma and you were feeling much better.
“Yeah, I’m a little surprised myself.”
>You watch the captain light up his pipe and inhale the smoke. He lets out a small cough.
>”This is stronger than that crap they give me back home.” He pulls the pipe from his lips and inspects it carefully. “You have any more of this on your ship?”
“I’m afraid not. This tin is all I have left.”
>”Well, just give me the brand name and I’ll be sure to pick some up for myself. That is some good tobacco you have there.”
>A pleasant surprise to see you had a strong pair of lungs compared to the old salty sea dog.
>You both share a quiet moment while the Dover boys go about their chores, Winslow was securing the sails while John was working on the navigation.
>The wind was at a standstill.
>Captain Scully breaks the silence. “Why are you out here alone?”
>You’re caught off guard by his question.
“Well, I was just uh... I’m just...”
>Like a grandfather, he was wise with years of experience. “Anon, you know what else goes out to sea by themselves? Seagulls.”
“Seagulls?”
>”Aye, they fly off alone to die at sea. In all my years of sailing, the only reason a man would go out to sea by himself is because he’s dead on the inside.”
>Just when you thought you had forgotten all about her.
>”I don’t want to stir up troubled pasts, but maybe if you talk about it you might feel better, aye?”
>You didn’t feel good anymore, and you felt your very being begin to quiver.
“Her name was Gwyneth. I knew her since I was a boy.”
>You told him what happened; the proposal, the sickness and her demise.
>Scully sat there with an open ear, and an open heart.
>You took in a deep breath. It was as if you relived the best and worst years of your life all over again.
“I still wonder to this day, why?”
>”We all do, Anon. Lost me mother a few years ago due to old age. Rest her soul, she was a saint that one.” He wipes his pipe clean and places it carefully in his pocket.
“Sorry to hear that.”
>Scully reaches into a crate and pulls out several bottles of beer. He hollers to the men to gather around.
>Once everyone was standing nearby, he hands them each a bottle. “A toast to our loved ones. May their spirits be at peace, and the precious memories never forgotten.”
>The others mumble in agreement as they waste no time consuming their beverage. You were a little more conservative with yours.
>You couldn’t help but think of Luna. The way she pouted when you left her below deck didn’t make you feel any better.
>But if there was no wind to push the sails, there was no point to go back to your ship.
>Just stay for a bit longer, entertain these men and you’ll be on your way.
>As the two ships drift together, so did the hours.
>It must be close to suppertime by now.
>”You know Anon, I could use a boatswain. You seem to know a thing or two about taking care of ships.”
>You were caught off guard by the captain’s proposal.
“That’s uh... a very generous offer, sir.”
>He chuckles heartily. “Prove yourself and you might just take John’s position of Sailing Master.”
>John scoffs at the notion. For the first time he speaks up. “Doubtful. I’ve been sailing ships since he was drinking milk from his mother’s teat.”
>You feel insulted by his choice of words.
>Scully couldn’t help but laugh, but he quickly regains his composure. “True as that may be, you shouldn’t insult our guests. Don’t be scared just because your job is on the line.”
>John grumbles in his throat and walks off.
>”Anon, how would you like to join us for a hearty meal?”
“I wouldn’t want to impose, especially after your generous donation of supplies.”
>”Anon, my lad. You got to learn how to take every once in a while.” He wraps his arm around your shoulder and drags you towards the hatch that leads to the lower deck.
>”C’mon boys. It’s time to eat.”
>Almost like cattle, you’re herded down below deck into the mess hall where the Dover boys were already pulling out containers of goods and beginning to whip up supper.
>Salted cured pork, bread, fruit, legumes, and other assortments.
>These men ate much better than you did out at sea. Most of it is exceptionally fresh.
>A little too fresh.
>However, what caught your eye the most was the decor that lined the walls of the mess hall.
>Trophies.
>Heads of exotic animals mounted on the wall cover almost every foot.
“Interesting collection you have here.”
>Captain Scully chomps down on a crisp stick of celery. “Do you hunt sport?”
“No.”
>”Neither do I!” He erupts into his signature laugh as do the others.
>”You wouldn’t believe how cheap this stuff can be, and what a profit one can make.”
“What do you mean?”
>He raises a finger to you as he gets up. Walking over to a cupboard, he pulls out something wrapped in linens.
>Placing it on the table, he nudges it towards you. “Take a gander at that.”
>You carefully unfold the fabric and see a long twisted white spiral.
>”An extremely rare alicorn. Or as most would call it; a unicorn horn.”
>You’ve seen these before. Swindlers would trick people out of their hard earn money for this worthless placebo.
“It’s a narwhal tooth.”
>The table fell dead silent.
>Captain Scully raises an eyebrow at you and a smile creeps across his face. “Smart lad... Of course I can tell you’re no fool. But if people are going to be ignorant, then they might as well pay for it.”
“You don’t find that dishonest?”
>”Just trying to make a living, Anon.” He shrugs.
>As the Dover boys lay out food before you, you lick your lips in anticipation.
>A proper meal. The first in so many weeks.
>You do your best to control your instinct to wolf down your food, but the smell and flavor were overpowering.
>”I think this boy can put more away than you can, Winslow!” Scully sputtered with his mouth full.
>The meal was much needed, but you couldn’t help feeling guilty that Luna couldn’t enjoy a decent meal.
>The fact that this man had dead exotic animals on his ship was a good indicator he‘s a smuggler of sorts. As long as you play along, Luna will be safe.
>After the meal was finished, it was topped off with a glass of red wine.
>”I’m not the one for a ‘woman’s drink’, but I find that red wine really does satisfy after a meal.” The captain carefully examines a small glass of the crimson liquid before sipping on it.
>You had to agree with him on this.
>Even if wine isn’t your favourite, it felt well suited to top off a meal.
>”I’d serve you custard, Anon. But unfortunately we don’t have all the luxuries of home.”
“It was certainly a delicious supper. My thanks to those two chefs of yours.”
>The Dover boys chuckle and grin. “Much obliged. Our mum taught us well she did.” They both spout in unison.
>The dishes and silverware clack as the twins hurry to clean up the mess hall.
>The captain pulls out his pipe and begins to stuff it again with his own brand of tobacco. “Alright, I want you boys to go and move some goods. I need to have a little chat with our guest here.”
>All four men stop their activities to leave you and the captain alone.
>Scully strikes a match and holds it over his pipe. A few puffs and a faint smoke trail out of the corners of his mouth.
>He looks off into the distance and strokes his mutton chops briefly. “Maybe you think me as scrupulous, but frankly I don’t give a damn. If there’s one thing I’ve learned that matters most, we have needs that must be satisfied.”
>You nervously fidget with your fingers.
>”Let’s go outside for some fresh air, aye?” He stands up and waddles over to the doorway.
>You had a bad feeling in the pit of your stomach. The same kind of nausea when a little child knows he is about to be scolded by his parents.
“I didn’t mean to argue with you, sir. It’s just that I go by a different set of beliefs.”
>Scully leads you up the stairs. “Don’t we all? Wouldn’t the world be much simpler if we all thought the same? I harbour no hard feelings, Anon.”
>As your head emerges to the outside, you’re greeted by a low hanging sun in the west. A loud thud catches your attention.
>There of the side of the side you see Winslow climbing back onto the ship with Luna tied up over his shoulder. Her mouth, wings and legs were all bound by rope.
>”But whatever valuables you have should make us even.” Scully chortles.
>Your heart begins to race as she struggles and looks to you.
>The Dover boys climb over the edge with a few assortments of your valuables. “This man is traveling light.” The other scoffs. “I told you so, but you never listen, brother.”
>Scully grabs you firmly by the shoulder, kicks you behind the leg and causes you to fall to your knees.
>Luna looks at you, her eyes crying out for help. Scully eyes the odd creature. “What in God’s green is that, Winslow? Last thing we need is a filthy animal on this ship.”
>”This ain’t no normal horse, uncle. It can talk and it has wings and a horn.”
>The captain squints his old eyes. It was too good to be true. “Sweet Jesus... those are wings. Anon, you’ve been holding out all this time.”
>Winslow gently removes the length of rope binding her snout. As soon as it was released, her thunderous voice booms across the ship deck. “YOU SHALL RELEASE US IMMEDIATELY.”
>Winslow quickly wraps the rope around her muzzle again. “But it talks too loud, uncle. Makes my ears hurt.”
>Scully’s mouth was hanging wide open, almost at a loss for words at the spectacle of a talking animal.
>”Hold it still for me, Winslow.”
>The brutish man holds Luna in his arms closer for Scully to inspect.
“Let her go!”
>John immediately steps in and cracks you on the back of the skull. Your vision flashes bright white and you see dots in your vision.
>Luna yells, but her screams are muffled.
>”Wings... a horn...” The captain mumbles to himself. “Well Anon, it’s like I say: ‘There’s always something of value on a ship, no matter how pathetic it is.’”
“I don’t understand... Why?”
>”Why? Don’t get me wrong boy, it’s nothing personal, but I am a trader and I ain’t planning on buying stuff, no sir. I was this close to letting you sail off, but not before I had my boys check your stash.”
>One of the twins pipe up. “Sir, where do you want this junk?”
>”Put it with the rest, I’m sure we can sell it for chump change.” He growls at them.
>”What about this horse, uncle Scully?”
>”That little prize can go in the brig for now. And as for you...” He grabs you by the hair and pulls you to your feet.
>Dragging you over to the opposite side of the ship, he pulls out a flintlock pistol from under his vest. “I’m afraid our business transaction is over with.” He takes aim at your face.
>You stare at the pistol as your heart starts to pound furiously in your chest.
>You had to act fast.
“Wait!”
>You raise your arms over your face.
>”If you’re going to die, at least do it like a man.” Scully sighs. You had to think fast.
>You need a reason why they shouldn’t kill you.
>Then it hits you.
“No, you don’t understand. That unicorn can grant wishes.”
>Scully lowers his weapon. “Wishes you say? All the more reason to kill you I suppose.” He raises his gun once more.
“No no no! You need a special spell to do so, and only I know it.”
>He raises an eyebrow. ”You’re bluffing...”
“Then you’ll never know.”
>Scully frowns as he exchanges looks between you and Luna. The look in his eyes spoke volumes that he wanted you to die, but his gut feeling was telling him otherwise.
>He slowly lowers the gun and holsters it back under his vest. “Gag him and throw them both in the brig.”
>John clocks you behind the head and this time you go out like a light.

>You could feel your head pounding as you came to. Your vision was blurred but you could see a dim light.
>As you try to pull your hand to your face, you felt both hands were bound by rope. There was something wrapped around your mouth.
>In the corner of the brig you see Luna shackled by her front leg to the floor. “Anon...” She whispers.
>You manage to shuffle closer to her; she uses her mouth to pull down your gag.
“Are you OK? Did they hurt you?”
>”Keep your voice down.” She urges you. “What makes you think that I grant wishes?”
“I don’t, but I had to give them a reason to keep me alive. If I know how to make you grant wishes, then they can’t risk killing me.”
>”I see, but we’re still locked up in here.” She moans. Luna walks over to a small pile of hay and lays down. “Any bright ideas?”
>You look to see that you were indeed inside a dingy cell. A wooden door with a small barred window was directly across from you.
>The wall behind you had a window with bars. Carefully, you manage to get onto your knees and you’re just tall enough to get a glimpse outside.
>Hanging right outside the window was one of the ropes that was tethered to your ship.
>The night sky was dotted with many stars as the faint glow of the diminishing sunset grew colder. You slump against the wall in defeat.
“I have no idea. I fear as though we’ve run into a dead end.”
>”What’s to become of me?”
“Let’s not think such thoughts. I’m sure we’ll pull through.”
>If you didn’t think of something, not only would you probably end up dead, but Luna might face something worse.
>You hear a door open and close somewhere within the ship, then footsteps.
>Your ears focus on the sound of Scully talking to someone. “It’s your turn to watch these two, and don’t screw it up.”
>You hear the familiar groan of Winslow as he agrees compliantly.
>Quickly you lay on the ground and turn to face the wall so they couldn’t see the gag was off your mouth. You could hear them standing at the door.
>”And don’t fall asleep like you always do, you lazy good for nothing bastard.” Scully scolds Winslow.
>You hear the captain walk away as his nephew takes his place by the door and begins to hum a tune to himself.
>The gears in your head begin to turn.
>There was still a chance to turn the tide. You roll over and quietly call out to Winslow.
“Hey... Winslow.”
>He turns his head and looks into the cell. “What?”
“I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation.”
>”And?”
>This lad wasn’t much of a talker, but at least he cuts to the chase.
“I noticed how your uncle talks to you, and I was thinking how you’re much more deserving of wishes.”
>Winslow raises an eyebrow at you. “Well, he tells me that he’s only doing it to help me.”
“My dear lad, the way he’s treating you is nothing short of abuse. But, if you were to become, say, captain of this ship then I say you’re a shoo-in for getting your wish granted.”
>”What do you mean?”
“Well uh... this magical creature, Luna, will grant wishes to anyone that’s a captain of their own ship. That’s why she can grant my wishes.”
>”So why ain’t you making any wishes now? You could wish yourself back home if you wanted to.” His tone was suspicious of your claims.
>He almost has you in a corner, but your mind was already one step ahead.
“I’m not the captain of this ship, but I would have to relinquish Luna here to the captain before she can grant wishes.”
>You turn to Luna.
“Isn’t that right?”
>She nods obediently. “I’m afraid that’s true.” Good to know she’s going to play along with your plan. Winslow exchanges a doubtful look between the two of you.
>”I don’t know if I should...” He mumbles to himself.
“Why not get John and the Dover boys in on it? I’m sure they’ll support you.”
>Winslow rubs his chin for a moment. “And when I’m captain, then you’ll let me have the wishes.?”
“I’m afraid that’s my only option at this point. I just hope you’ll have mercy on me once you become captain of this ship.”
>Winslow scratches his head. “But how should I do it?”
“Do you have a pistol?”
>”I know where I can get one.”
“Then find it. When your uncle takes me and Luna out for interrogation, you stage a mutiny. The others will be sure to follow you.”
>You lick your lips in anticipation. Winslow was a nice enough fellow, but you need him to be gullible for this to work.
>Without saying another word, Winslow slowly waddles down the hallway. You wait a while before Luna speaks up.
>“What are you planning? When he finds out I can’t grant wishes, then we’ll be in real trouble.” Luna expresses her concerns with good reason, but you have an idea.
“It will give us the opportunity we need to escape.”
>You kneel back up to the window and look out to your ship.
“We should think of a way to cut these ropes, that way we can make our escape easily.” You pull your hands trying to see if you can slip out of the bindings. The ropes don’t give.
>You look at the line attached to your ship. You’ll just have to figure out something else.
>Luna leans her head down to the floor.
>In the dim light you can see her snout right up against a small rat that was twitching its nose and whiskers at her.
>Luna was gently moving her lips as if she was whispering to it.
“Luna, don’t touch those. God knows what diseases they carry.”
>Her horn glows softly and fades quickly. The rat instantly races towards your leg. From there it crawls up your leg towards your shoulder where it jumps off towards the window.
>From the ledge, it leaps onto the rope and scuttles off.
>You shudder from the thought of that filthy creature touching you, but you were more dumbfounded than scared that it would come near you.
“What did you do?”
>Luna smiles. “I was having the most interesting conversation with it, but I asked the little fellow if he would be able to chew the ropes for us.”
>This was too good to be true; you glance outside and could see the tiny critter chewing on the rope.
“Luna, you’re brilliant!”
>She smirks. “Well, that’s probably the best compliment you’ve given me thus far.” You sit back on the floor leaning up against the wall.
“They didn’t hurt you, did they?”
>”No, I was trying to sleep when I heard those brutes on the ship. But they were already on me before I could escape.”
“Not very many places to run when you’re on a ship.”
>They could take everything else on the ship, but you didn’t want to see Luna hurt. But seeing as how see is the most alluring thing you have, it wasn’t going to be possible to bargain with Scully.
>Luna stands up and walks over to you, laying down at your side. “So what now?”
>You sigh heavily.
“Rest up. You’ll need your strength when we escape.”
>Some time goes by. You even found yourself dozing off on several occasions. But loud thunderous stomps on the wooden floor alert you.
>You hear the key latch clank and the door swings open. There stand Scully and Winslow. “Alright, time to give that horse to me.”
>He storms into the room and grabs you by your shirt, dragging you to your feet. Winslow follows closely behind, pulling Luna by her chain.
>You’re pushed and shoved up to the deck. The cool night air greets you as the lanterns light up the ship.
>Scully leads you to a plank extending over the side of the ship. “They say sharks love to follow ships. Never know what tasty bits will be given to them.”
>You feel your spine crawl at the very notion of falling into the dark water below.
>”Now then, my nephew was kind enough to tell me what you told him earlier...” You could feel your heart racing; did Winslow tell him of your idea of mutiny?
>”You look worried, as well you should. He told me all about how you have to relinquish control of that magical horse to me. And since I’m captain, I guess you have to make a choice. Give me control over that beast...” He turns you forcefully towards the plank.
>”Or you can take a long swim back home.”
>You lean away from the edge, but Scully begins to push you closer onto the plank. “I think a cold dip will do you some good.” He taunts you.
>You had to buy some time.
“OK, I’ll tell you.”
>He instantly swings you around and knocks you down onto the wooden floor of the ship. “Then get to it!” He barks at you.
>The entire crew surrounds you. You gesture Luna to come closer to you.
>She sits in front of you not saying a word. You gently cup her head in your hands and look her in the eyes. They seem to sparkle like the stars above.
>Everyone was watching you and Luna intensely.
>Just before you spoke, you hear the click of a flintlock pistol. Looking up, you see Winslow holding a gun up to Scully’s head.
>Scully’s nostrils flare up. “What’s the meaning of this, boy?” His words were slow and deliberate with a growl to it.
>”I’m sorry Uncle, but we’re looking for a new captain.”
>”And you have the gall to kill your own blood? After all I did for you, you ungrateful shit!”
>Captain Scully looks to the others for support.
>John pulls out a flintlock of his own and takes aim at the captain. The Dover boys appear to be in cahoots with the mutiny.
>”So, the worm has turned has it?“ He glares at you. “So what will it be then? Kill me and then wait until one of these backstabbers come to finish you off?”
>John steps forward. “Well that would’ve spoiled the surprise but...” The Dover Boys produce their own pistols. One pointed at Winslow and the other at Captain Scully. “We had a little talk of our own and decided its best for the two family members to take a leave of absence.”
>Looks like John was plotting his own mutiny.
>Scully clenches his teeth in rage. “I’d be DAMNED if I let any of you get away with this.”
>There was silence in the air.
>You could feel a soft breeze blow gently across your face.
>The wind was back.
>Scully kicks a bundle of rope towards John.
>John fires a shot and the bullet grazes Scully.
>You saw the tip of Luna’s horn glow a bright white. Instinctively you cover your eyes with your hands, but even so you could still see a bright light invade your vision.
>You hear the anguished cries of the crew. One of the Dover boys was yelling. “That’s fucking smarts. Like the bloody sun just landed in my eyes!”
>You look to see that the others were holding their eyes. Luna must have produced an incredible flash of light to stun them.
>Getting to your feet, you race to the side of the ship where your schooner was waiting. Luna was right behind you.
“OK, let’s jump off together!”
>In the corner of your eye you see Luna being pulled back forcefully. Scully was able to recover from his brief moment of blindness quickly and was holding Luna by the chain.
>You run back to save her, but he pulls out a pistol and aims it at her head. “This tiny horse is more trouble than it’s worth!”
>A wooden barrel sails through the air and smashes Scully in the back of his skull.
>As the captain falls flat to the floor, dead or unconscious, you see the Two Dover boys rush in to nab Luna. They cut her off from running to you.
>The wind picks up, bringing the sails back to life.
>You look back to see the two Irish twins chasing Luna across the deck. You see John finally pulling himself out of his blind state.
>Winslow rushes him from behind, but John takes a pot shot and pegs him in the leg.
>John continues his advance on you and pulls out a dagger.
>Grabbing you by the collar, he holds the blade right against your throat. “Now relinquish control of that beast to me!”
>The strong winds of the sea pick up, creating a wave that hits the side of the ship.
>The large sea vessel tilts to the side causing you and everyone tip off balance.
>John loses his poise and you manage to escape his clutches.
>He was a tall fellow, therefore you slip between his legs and run towards Luna who was recovering from her fall.
>Another gust of wind and spray of ocean water splashes on the deck.
>In the distance you hear the distinct sound of a rope snapping. One of the tethers to your ship must have been severed.
>John was already on your tail and you lead him on a chase around the mast of the ship. He begins to take wild swings at you as you continue to duck and dive around the pole.
>Out of the blue, Luna charges in and butts John off his feet and knocks him out. One of the Dover boys manages to grab Luna.
>You run, but slip on the deck of the ship. However, your momentum carries you into the Irish lad and knocks him off Luna.
>The Irish man picks you up by the collar, slams you against the mast of the ship and lands a punishing blow into your gut. He grins maniacally as he delivers another hit.
>The light of a nearby lantern catches your eye. You grab it and with as much strength as you could muster, you smash it against the side of his head.
>He flinches in pain and falls to the side out cold.
>A shower of flames spews from the lantern and a burst of wind pushes the embers onto the mast where they catch fire.
>Like a dry piece of paper, the flames spread quickly.
>You get to your feet and see Luna cornered at the bow of the ship by the other twin.
>With a full body tackle you knock him over.
“Get to the ship!”
>The man underneath you struggles; you do your best to stay on top of him. Luna looks at you with bewilderment in her eyes.
“GET GOING!”
>She pauses but quickly gallops to the side of the ship and leaps over the ledge.
>You feel a sharp pain in your jaw as the twin’s elbow makes contact with your face. You reel off him as he gets to his feet.
>Grabbing a wooden crate, he poises it above his head and takes aim for your skull.
>You brace yourself with your arms acting as a shield, but out of the corner of your eye you see a large figure grab him by the ankle.
>Winslow begins to pummel the small man as blood trails from his gunshot wound. This was your chance to run.
>As you make your way to the ledge and are about to jump, you feel someone grab your arm.
>There stood Captain Scull with blood pouring down the side of his face.
>The fire was starting to spread across the ship. If you didn’t jump now, not only would your ship take off without you but you’d burn alive as well.
>The captain tightens his grip on your arm as your struggle to pull away. From his waist he pulls out a sharp dagger and raises it.
>He takes a swing at you but your wild throws of struggling save you. You could still feel the burning sensation of the blade as it cuts across your abdomen.
>Seizing you by the throat, he growls as he readies the dagger once more.
>Something pops up on the captain’s shoulder.
>A dark brown rat.
>It instantly bites the captain’s ear which causes him to drop the knife and release you from his grip. He reaches to his head, grabs the rat and throws it away.
>He sets his sights on you, but you hear a sound from behind. Over the railing pours a small flood of rats which swarm the ship’s deck.
>The ravenous mob of rats flock towards Scully and begin to crawl all over him, biting and clawing at him. He yells in pain as he swats them away but their numbers prove to be too much of a nuisance for him to handle.
>”Anon, jump!” You hear Luna yell from below.
>Grabbing the knife, you place the handle in your mouth and jump down to your ship below.
>Running to the side of your ship, you feel another strong gust of wind. It was now or never.
>You feverishly cut away the rope that was tied to your ship as the rival vessel continues to be consumed by fire.
>As the knife finishes slicing through, you quickly work your way to the sails to open them up properly.
>The wind fills them with life as your boat begins to push past the other ship. You hasten to fasten the ropes to make sure your schooner gets the most speed.
>Running back to the helm, you adjust your coordination and check the map. You look back to see the burning ship in the distance becoming dimmer the further you get away.
>Everything begins to slow down.
>It was silent once more.
>It’s just you and Luna now.
>You look to her, and she looks to you.
>It was hard to explain but you both begin to snicker and that was followed up with laughter.
>You latch your arms around her neck as you share this moment.
>You almost felt like crying.
“I’m so sorry. I was afraid I was going to lose you.”
>She sighs contently. “Thank you Anon. That was very courageous of you, what you did back there.”
>You release her from your hug and kneel down in front of her. Her mane begins to sparkle, much like the heavens above.
>The winds were strong and swift.
>At this rate, you should make it to Qaqortoq in no time.
“You should get some rest. We got a ways until we reach our destination.”
>”Are you sure you’ll be okay?”
“Knowing that you’re safe, I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
>She seemed to be at a loss for words. She nods and makes her way below deck.
>You take one final look behind you and all you could see in the darkness of the night was the faint glow of the burning wreckage of Captain Scully’s valiant ship.
>You weren’t sure if they escaped or not.
>But a captain always goes down with his ship.