The Land of Opportunity

When i was a child i was very messy. I always lost my belongings, my toys, my clothes, my spare money, even though we did not lived in a big house. There was times when i knew i lost something but i didn’t even know what or where did i left them. In these moment my mother thought me to search it everywhere, even in the places where i’m perfectly sure i won’t find anything. This mentality guided me through my endlessly looking jurney of findig the Ten Holy Swords of Hope. Despite of the facts, that since findig the first one Eisen Meteor, nearly one year have past, i had not given up yet. I contunously wandering trough Fiore, taking every opportunity i can even if there is no sign of relation with my final goal. Thats how i ended up in Hargeon for the first time.
The sun was shining brightly that i had to cover my eyes with my hand as i passed trough the streets. The whole city was excited by something, every little mouth was talking about a brand new thing, but i couldn’t really get to know what excactly that was. I decided to take a nap, the time was noon and my stomach was empty as a magical golem’s mind. Fortunately i found an inn shortly, with an open air bar at the side. I put my bag with that egg in it next to me in a safe distance. To be honest i was a bit worried since i have him/her, in towns, afraid of the little pickpocketing thiefs.
I ordered some freshener, and i asked if they had any food, and decided to eat a hamburger. As i was filling myself, i began to be more and more curious about the excitement of this town. I reached my limit and suddenly stormed the waiter who was standing behind the bar with my question:
„What’s wrong with this town?”
„Excuse me Sir? What do you mean?”
„With the people i mean. Everyone is excited, and it’s in the air that something is happening.”
„Don’t you know? The island. This is everyone is talking about. A mysterious and unknown island just emerged from the down below, from the bottom of the sea. Whole Fiore is excited about it! Look!”
He gave me the daily paper with the headline of „New island emerges at the open sea”. While i finished my burger, i read the paper, and i found myself shaking with thrill and excitement too. I couldn’t stop but to think of the chance of finding one of the Ten Holy Sword of Hope there. No one can know, buti f you don’t try you never find it!
In an instant i jumped up from the seat, gave the money for the drink and the food to the waiter, picked up my egg and sprinted towards the docks of the town. What an opportunity, what an adventure! I have to go to that island, i must! With this thoughts i rushed through the streets, mindig nothing and no one. Just until i realized i got no idea where the docks are. After a short break, asking someone where should i find it i started to run again with all my might. This is a chance which i must not miss! As i marched into the town a bit more i realised that how many adventurers are here, and they causing that strange atmosphere i felt before. Finally i reached the docks, where an amusing amount of people and ships was preparing to their journey. It was the most interesting thing i’ve ever seen, since i haven’t seen a harbour before. I gave myself ten minutes of sightseeing, and then i started to search for a ship, which goes to that island. The big „search” was like, i stood next to the nearest ship and i shouted out loud.
„Hey! Do this ship goes to the island?” my voice did the trick, suddenly four sailor looked down to see what kind of idiot is shouting there. When they saw me they just grimmed and didn’t even give an answer. I tried this again and again, and it seemed that no ship would take me. I started to loose my motivation after the seventeenth rejection, but how would i find the swords without hope and endurance! I dragged myself to the next ship, and shouted out loud again (but with less joy then the first ten times).
„Hello upt there? Do this ship goes to the island?”
„You mean Atlas?” Asked an old men’s voice but without a sight. I remembered the commonfolk named the Island Atlas.
„Yes, are you heading there?”
„Yes we do lad, but who are you?” finally a little, pig-faced man bended over the gunwale. He was fat, decorated with a lots of expensive jewelery and fine clothes. Just as the greedy merchants look like.
„I’m a mage and an adventurer, seeking a ship to sail towards Atlas!”
The man bended a bit more over to take a better look at me with his mistrustful eyes, but as he noticed my sword, a big smile sat on his face.
„Well, and i need henchmen to protect my trading journey! Okay, fine! I’ll lend you lad, but i will detract the price of the ride from your final wage!”

It was a sunny day... well, that's what everyone said. I only got up in the late afternoon and went straight to eat. The hall was almost empty at this time, only a few people were standing in a corner and staring at the jobs. I got some food and went to the table to eat in peace. I had enough money left, so I didn't have to look for any job, and I didn't have the desire either. I'm too lazy to work so just I have some adventures.
- Hi, Shou! I haven't seen you in days, where were you? - asked me someone from behind, and I recognized the voice sadly. As I turned around I saw Sofiya behind me with a big smile.
- Do I look like someone, who always goes out? Obvoiusly I was sleeping! You should know me by now. - I grinned at her than turned back to my meal.
- You're way too lazy, Shou! - she told me in a voice that was meant for lecturing but she gave up after this sentence. - How 'bout a work for a change? - asked me as she sat down beside me.
- Sorry, but I got enough money left from lottery and I have no desire to work just so I can go to some adventures. It's not my stlye. - I smiled at her, than ate a few spoons of my soup.
- Well, that's sad, 'cause you have to work this way than. You have no right to refuse. - and as I turned around after these words she was grinning in my face happily.
- And why is that I have to go? - I asked whit fear behind my words. I hate when someone else decides my job! Not to mention that I don't even want to go anywhere.
- Did you hear about the new island that emerged?
- Well, obviously yes. I don't think that there is anyone in Fiore who didn't hear about it. It's mentioned everywhere.
- Great, than you have to go with a team to explore the island.
- You still didn't explain me the most important thing. Why the hell do I have to?! - I stared at her anxiously.
- 'Cause I volunteered for this job, but there are some things that I have to do, so I can't go. - said she with an embarassed face.
- And...? If you can't go than simply don't go. That's it.
- Well, the sad thing is, you had to register for this job, and when I told them that I can't go they said that I have to get someone to hop in in my place. They didn't take no for an answer. Aaaaaand you were the only one whom I know you wouldn't go to jobs without a reason, and you're also lazy. You were my best choice when they asked who will go in my place. So pretty please? - she put her hands together asking for the favor.
- And if I said no...? - it was a stupid question knowing her, but I just had to. This wasn't motivational enough for me.
- Well, than I just have to knock you unconscious and put you on the train! - she said with a bright smile. Just as I feared...
- You owe me a favor for this! - I stated and her smile got brighter if that's even possible.
- Thanks a lot! You're a life saver! - she said and hugged me.
- Okay-okay, that's enough! - I pushed her back to her chair. - So, tell me a bit more about this job.
She than after this told me that the gathering point was at the Hargeon dock and the point of this expedition was to find some rescources and lacryma. About the team she didn't know anything so I have to look for everyone at the port, and I don't even know whom to look for.
That's how I got on the late night train and got there in the morning. The ride was pretty quick for me, 'cause I didn't wake up once and this kind of sleep was kind of refreshing. After I got off the train I went straight to the docks but there was still a problem.
- Who do I have to look for...? - I asked myself the question after I arrived at the gate to the docks.

(Sorry a lassú postért =/)

Since my return to action not much has changed. I decided to take fewer jobs, than before, so I won’t go mad. After 3 weeks interesting requests ceased to exist, the only ones that came in were friggin’ ship escorts, and I decided I won’t set a foot on no ship ever again, even if hell froze over! Little did I know, that my decision will soon change, when I entered the guild halls, and I heard that familiar voice, the voice that can make the bravest of men chicken out, calling for me.
-Hey, Sandy-boy. Come here for a second. – His voice was far more demanding than the way I remembered it was. Also his face shouted that he is worried about something. I walked up to him, not wanting to upset him anymore, because of the old, jumpy geezer he is. I sat next to him at the bar.
-Yes, what is it? – His eyes was focused on his mug, which was strange, he usually looks others in the eye, to be more intimidating.
-Wait a bit, Pruedence will be here any second now with the others. – Others? Are we holding a council, or what? And why am I a part of it? After a while, the girl did return, alone. She was sweating hard; Ba’al must have made her run errands for him all morning.
-I’m sorry, Master. – She began, panting. – I can’t find Master Xaundaras, or Master Lucius. – Hearing that his minion failed miserably in her task, Master Ba’al slammed his mug on the table, breaking the handle off, and spilling much of the contents. Both Pruedence and I made a fidget because of the loud bang.
-Did those old fools just die on me, when I needed them the most? Go and find something to prove they died! Find out how, when and where they died, if they were killed, I want the name of the persons who did them in, and the name of the organization they belong to! NOW SCRAM! – Hearing this, the girl turned on her heels, and left the halls in a hurry. – It seems it’s just you and me. I doubt I can get anything new out of you. – Then why on earth did you ask for my presence? – You said you came from a desert country, right? Then you must know a thing, or two about sand.
-I believe that the Master is far more experienced in geology, than I am. – He ignored me.
-Is sand sentient?
-Not unless you give some magic to it. Dunes are moved by the wind.
-What about sand underwater?
-I’m from a desert, you’re mistaking me for someone who is from the ocean. – Why don’t you ask Pruedence to fetch you a saltwater fish from the market, or a squid invader? Those would be of more help, than I am.
-So, someone is playing with magic. Have you heard of the island of Atlas? You must have, everyone did.
-Island of Atlas? I’m not an expert in geography. – He flipped from my statement.
-DO YOU HAVE SAND IN YOUR EARS OR A PIECE OF SANDSTONE FOR BRAIN?! That island EMERGED from the bottom of the ocean about a month ago. Ever since it’s appearance it attracts pirates, foolhardy adventurers, treasure hunters, geologists, settlers, merchants, miners, scholars like raw meat attracts flies. It’s the talk of the whole world!
-Now I see: you wanted to mangle on some rumors with the masters and me.
-Don’t you mock me, boy! Why I called you was not because of your wisdom. I want you on that island! Ever since it emerged we, and every other guild are flooded with requests. We’re receiving so much; I had to bring one more billboard up from the basement. And when it emerged, some weakling mages from the guild jumped on the first requests, I don’t know what they were thinking, and we haven’t heard from them ever since.
I want you there because of two things. First: to look for those fools. Half of the guild is there, so a catastrophe will wipe us out for good. If you find them, bring them back, dead or alive. The second: you traveled from your wretched country here on foot. You visited most of the countries that sent units to the island, you must know a bit of their language. I want you to be a diplomat. That island is currently owned by five or six countries, it’s like a keg of gunpowder: one little spark, and we can watch the fireworks called world conflict. Also, the island emerged in a few minutes, without warning, now, if it would decide to submerge the same way, evacuation will not be possible by ships. No one runs that fast, so maybe with your abilities, you could be of some help. Now go take one of those requests, try to find the ship that sets sail as soon as possible, and get there!
After listening to the long briefing I did as he told me to. There really were two billboards, both cramped with papers, piled one on top of the other. While searching, a strange thing came to my mind: what if Sahara raised that island? After a long search I found a request, it said that a ship carrying supplies were to set sail at sunset today from the harbor city of Hargeon. I didn’t want to lose too much time, since it was already noon. Without a word I left the halls, just like Pruedence did, and ran off to the train station. There the usual procedure took place: I bought the ticket, board the train, and we're off to Hargeon. But this time, things didn’t go too well. We had to stop a couple of times, because forest animals were passing trough on the tracks.
By the time we reached Hargeon, the sun was already setting. Like crazy, I dashed to the harbor, only to find it half empty, and devoid of life.


Already panting I ran laps in the harbor, looking for the ship called The Lovely Jon. I couldn’t find it. After my tenth lap, when I stopped, a crooked old lady walked up to me.
-It’s good to see young people so enthusiastic about their health.
-I’m not running to stay fit. I’m looking for a ship called The Lovely Jon.
-Oh, my grandson’s ship set sail about two hours ago. Three nice-looking youngsters came from some sorcerer’s guild, offering their services, and my grandson told me now they have enough protection, so they set sail a bit earlier.
Great, that’s just great.
-Can you tell me when do the next merchant, supply or tourist ship sets sail?
-Even my grandson’s departure at sunset was a rare event. They usually leave in the morning, or soon after noon. – Wonderful.
-What about pirates? – The old lady’s face grimaced in disgust.
-They are a useless bunch: thieves, smugglers, and murderers. They would sell their mother for a barrel of rum. You listen to me and stay clear of them.
-This is urgent. I have to get to Atlas!
-Well if you insist. You can try talking to that bunch in the Bunghole over there. It’s usually filled with their kind.
She pointed me in the direction of the pirate pub called the Bunghole, and she left. Talking with pirates about lending a ride was not my favorite occupations. They are jumpy, stubborn drunkards, their skulls filled with smelly bilge water. Why can’t all pirates be like Strago? Though, he is not really a pirate. I entered the wooden building, just stepping trough the door and the smell of grog hit my nose so hard I almost threw up. As always everyone examined me, but short after returned to their games of cards, drinks, or women. I walked up to the bar, the loud laugh of the customers banging hard on my eardrums. The barkeep walked up to me, while cleaning a mug.
-Howdy, stranger. What interests ye tonight?
-I’m looking for a ride to Atlas.
-Well, nine ships out of ten have that island on their route. But too bad, you won’t find anyone who ferries a tourist here. But if ye want to try yer luck talk to Black, the scarred. He’s the captain of The Damned Doubloon of Hell. He’s over there. – Black, the scarred was a name I considered to run away from as soon as I hear it, and much to my dismay, the guy lived up to his name. He was a tall man, probably more than six feet tall, and about four times as wide as me. If this was not enough, he had dark skin, and much of his skin that was visible was covered in scars. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone told me that this guy wrestles bears and lions in his free time. I walked to his table, where he and his fellows were playing cards, Black was surrounded by five girls.
-May I have a word? – I asked, hiding my fear.
-You may. – Said Black, the scarred. His response surprised me. In these situations they usually say something like “not now, I’m playing”, or “PIKE OFF, LANDLUBBER!” But he told me to go ahead, and put his cards face down on the desk, and looked me in the eye. He was pretty scary, not to mention he was as tall as me, even while sitting on a chair.
-I need to get to Atlas.
-That is a nice goal you have. A lot of people want to go, only few succeed.
-I want you to take me there.
-We don’t ferry passengers.
-I pay.
-Don’t make me repeat it. – I wanted to tell him my offer, but by the way he looked, he really wouldn’t repeat his sentence, instead he would kick my ass out of existence. I apologized for robbing his precious time, and went back to the bar. The time has come for plan C.
-Barkeep, how much time it takes to sail to Atlas?
-Well, if you take off right now, you would get there by morning. So it’s about half a day of sailing.
-That’s good. Can you pack me a bag with rations, please?
-You’re up to no good, son, I can see it in your eyes. I serve you, but don’t come back to haunt me, okay? – He packed me a bag; I paid him and left the pub.
Now, let’s find the ship. It was already dark outside, but it wasn’t hard, having a long name, the Cursed Doubloon of Hell was easy to spot from a mile away. My plan was to smuggle myself on deck, hide, and when we stop bust a hole in the ship’s hull, jump out, and if I’m lucky, I will be on Atlas.
For the purpose of sneaking I removed my boots. The ship was totally empty, the night watch seemingly consisted of only one sailor, who was, feeling left out of the fun, was drinking by himself, and looked quite smashed. He didn’t notice me when I stumbled upon the deck. My plan was to go down to the bilge, or find a storeroom and hide somehow. I tried to open the door that leads to the inside of the ship, but it made a loud cracking noise, which rose the attention of the lone guard.
-Oi! Oi! Huzder? – Now I’m busted. I believe he wanted to ask “who’s there?” Even though it’s over for me, I tried something foolish, maybe he’s drunk enough.
-It’s me, David.
-Oh… Oh I shee… Had enough fun already?
-Yeah, I’m mighty tired.
-Have a G’night. – Then he returned to his idle staring at the stars. I didn’t believe I pulled that one trough with such a lame trick. I stepped trough the open doorway, and shut the door behind me. It was pretty dark inside, but I could see enough to get my bearings. I hurried down to the bottom of the ship, but halfway trough I found a store room mostly filled with barrels of rum. It didn’t took too much time; I found an almost empty one pretty fast. Fighting against the reeking smell of rum I lift the lid of the barrel, stepped in it, and returned the lid to its place. I believe this barrel was empty, because the night watch drank its contents. I wonder how smashed he is. Will he live to see the morning? But for now we play the wait game.

After a while, I heard shouts and various noises I couldn’t identify, and then I felt as if we were moving. The life of a stowaway is a stressful one. I heard people walking in the store room, and in front of it, I prayed to all my gods that they will steer clear of my barrel. They did so for quite a time.
After what seemed to be a lifetime I heard someone shout “Land ho! It’s Atlas!” and it melt my heart. But good times are scarce, and short, when you’re trespassing on enemy territory. Two pirates entered the store room, and was looking for rum to celebrate. I don’t know why they would celebrate their hundredth time on Atlas, maybe they just grasped every opportunity to drink. To my misfortune, the third barrel they wanted to bring up was the one containing me. They lifted the barrel; I had to try hard not to bump my head.
-Avast! This one’s heavy!
-Aye! Maybe we should start with this one.
This is not good news, escape is now impossible, and if this will be the first barrel they open I will be caught in no time.
My fears came true; they lift the lid in an instant when they put me and the barrel down.
-Well-well, lookie here. No wonder it was heavy, the rum turned into a human.
-It’s me, David. – I tried the same trick. Of course it chose not to work this time.
-There’s no David on this ship. Oi, Matey, call the cap’n, we've got a stowaway.
Running for it was no option, we were on open waters, and I can’t swim. The captain was quick to answer the summons, his steps made the whole ship quake. When he looked inside the barrel, he recognized me.
-Well, if it isn’t the persistent land lubber from Hargeon. No one made me repeat what I said for a third time in such a fashion, so I’m considering giving you a chance. I’ll give you a paddle, if you can make it to Atlas with that barrel as a boat I forgive you.
-Do I have any other choice?
-Well... maybe we could load you in one of the cannons and see if we can shoot you to Atlas.
-I'd like to go with the barrel and paddle, please.
One of his men did give me a paddle; three men grabbed the barrel and threw me into the sea. I’m lucky I don’t have to swim.

The waves were moving me toward the island, so I didn’t had to paddle so hard. As the Cursed Doubloon of Hell passed by me I saw some of the crew waving from the rear of the ship at me. When I reach Atlas my first task will be to put holes on your ship, and lots of holes!
My little voyage ended in success. I was washed ashore on the island, near a town called Emersonville. I don't know how much time it took me to get here, but the Sun was pretty high, and from what I could see the Cursed Doubloon of Hell reached the harbor as well. The beach was empty, and no other cities were in sight, so I made my way toward Emersonville to start my four missions in one.

I was told to be patient for about three more hours, to give them time to prepare. First is wanted to argue and to stay and help them with their work too, but that loud merchant just sent me away, so i used that time to have a little bit of sightsee. As i expected i found the whole town and the harbour most exciting and entertaining.
As i returned to the ship at the time it was agreed to embark they just finished all the things so we could depart. The first time for me to sail at the sea, to be on board, tor ide the waves, to feel the fresh and wet wind blowing to my face, to watch the little water creatures beneath us swimming happily. I was so busy living my childish excitement that i didn’t saw our fast little ship just cought up on a carrack. Suddenly the captain started to yell orders to the crew, and without me even realizing the situation rusty cannons appeard just below the deck and blew fire and metal into the direction of the other ship. Luckily all of the shots missed, but my astonishement jsut froze me, i just stood there blinking and loosing a word. I felt a big and heavy hand on my shoulder.
"Now, mage, let’s see how you can fight. You may even get a share of the loot if you do well. That’s why you came, didn’ye? "
I freed myself of his grip and turned front with him.
"What the hell are you talking about? What are you bandits? "
"Pirates we’re called kid." – said the captain i thought to be a merchant as he stood next to the first mate " what did you thought? Did you really believed the travelling merchant’s story with this kind of ship? Wasn’t it obvious? " he laughed out loudly at me "anyway… We’re the rulers of the seas, we’re pirates and we take what we just want. With or without you kid, so decide. Are you with or you wanna sleep with the fishes?
My whole body shook of the anger i felt for beeing fooled, never the less i nearly supported nasty and miserable criminals. As i thought of the shame what my stepfather Gale would felt if he saw my mistaken choice i could stand but to grit my teeth in my rage. I suddenly unsheated my sword and took a defensive state with it.
"No way that i’m gonna help filthy pirates or whatever you are! " the first mate just grimmed and whistled to his mates. I found myself in front of a group of bloodthirsty and amred sailor.
"Get’im boys, and show ’im what cowards get instead of the loot! " i didn’t wait until they reached me, as nearly seven of them tried to assault me. I ran up the front end of the deck, and turned back on them. I just don’t get it even by now why was my first thought to hold my ground there stacked between the end of the ship and the sea down there and the marauders. I prepared mentally for a hard fight as i didn’t know how strong they are, but the advantage of numbers were theirs. They also waited a moment and then they moved. To be precise, they wanted, to move but then suddenly the two ships crashed. The whole ground shaken and i just couln’t hold my balance. Suddenly i realized that i’m falling down from the ship and the only thing i could do is to defend the egg in my bag with my body from the fall. I landed on the top of some crates which crushed beneath me and i passed out for a bit. Some moments later as i stood up still a bit dizzy, a fight emerged before my eyes. The pirates attacked the crew of this other ship and now they are fighting, buta as i could tell, the bandits have bad luck. Their prey seemed to be made of some well qualified solder and/or mages, seemed a bit one sided and easy battle for me. Near me a young girl with long green hair and with flimsy clothes, just took down a pirate, but i saw an evil shadow behind her. My body reacted by it’s own, i rushed at her, pulling out my sword and stabbed with it between his side and arm. She shocked of my fast appearance, and the backstabber, who wanted to hurt her just screamed his last breath as my sword impaled him. I pulled my blade back, the girl still stood surprised, she turned at her back and saw the dead pirate, than she looked at me and started to catch up with the events. For my astonish she took a threathening stance and shouted at me confused.
"Halt! Who are you? " i leaned down my sword a bit and put my other right hand up to show her i have no evil intentions.
"Please don’t get the wrong thing! I’m at your side! The pirates fooled me and i thought the can get my to Atlas, but they turned out to be bad guys so i turned on them but they wanted to kill me and i ended up her. That’s why i helped you! " i jabbered, and fortunately she seemed to understand it, easing her stance a bit and cooling down.
"Well, sorry and thank you, i guess…" she still seemed to be a bit confused. Suddenly someone shouted at us and a boy runned towards me.
“Shizuko, leave him to me!”the girl, who was called Shizuko turned around and hold her hands up to stop the boy.
“NO! Wait! He's fine...He was a hostage or what... “
“And you belive this?“ he shouted and i prepared to defend myself if it’s needed, but the girl pointed my proof out.
“He did this... “
“Oh, I see...Then, let's beat the rest.” he changed his mind fast, but for my pleasure.
”Be my guest!i yelled and the three of us joined the fight. The marauders had been beaten up shortly after this, this ship protected by great mages. After the battle the crew surrounded one man, so i decided to join up with them, but only from the back.
”Hey, you! You, back there! ” he called out for someone and then everyone stared at me, but to be sure i asked back.
”Who, me? ”but from the silent glimpses i realized how stupid question that was so as i walked up for him i laughed a little bit embarassed.
”What’s your name, little brat? asked the man who seemed to be sort of a leader here. Normally if someone called me a brat i would have get mad, but i thought this some kind of a sailor words i’ve heard of a lot.
”Eddard Raregroove! ”
”Okay. So, Eddard…wanna join us? ” he asked.
”If by any chance you are heading to Atlas, yes, of course! ” i answered with hope in my heart, smiling.
”Yes, we are heading to that new island… these are my escorts, they protect me for a good reward. Will you do the same as they do? ” pointed around on everybody.
”Willingly sir! i answred cheering.
“Very well... So, I leave you now, my dears. I must have a nap. Guys, greet the new guy.”then he turned around, and walked slowly to his place
“Hi man. Sorry for the previous…My name is Tony Smith.” stepped the boy from the fight and we shook hands as we introduced ourselves to each other.
“Never mind pal, it was the heat of battle, Eddard, as mentioned.
Then i met the rest of the ’team’ as we slowly approached the island. As i got to know this guy, Jacob really is a marchant going to Atlas so i was happy to finally find a way to get there. And so we arrived…

The barrel, my replacement for a boat slowly drifted on the waves toward the beach. I was only about a few meters from the shore, but I started padding, to make the barrel go out of the water. It hit the sand, making it fall, I hit the beach with my face, but I didn’t mind. Finally, I was on dry land again. As I kicked the barrel off me, back into the water I felt something strange, I couldn’t quite tell what it was. It wasn’t the usual feeling I get when someone’s watching me, instead it was a feeling I get when I’m about to use one of my skills, but nothing happened to me. I turned my left arm into a blade, but I didn’t notice anything weird with it, so I switched it back and decided to ignore the feeling in the future. I made my way to the city.
Emersonville was nothing I have seen on my journeys before. It wasn’t your usual city, it looked more like a bunch of buildings made by pirates unskilled in carpentry and masonry. The buildings looked like they were just a heap of planks and bricks thrown together, and if they managed to stand, they are then therefore considered a house. The city was pretty lively despite it’s run-down status. People were doing their everyday activities, which consisted of underhanded deals of smuggled and/or stolen goods. Walking around the beach took me to the port, where, much to my surprise, I saw my ferry: the Doubloon. The crew was busy unloading their wares, so they didn’t pay too much attention to people standing by, they didn’t notice me. Judging by the amount of people working, and by the number of pirates I remember when I was on the deck, I could say more then half of them are missing. They must be in a pub, therefore they’ll be staying in dock for quite a while, giving me ample time to extract my revenge on them. Exploring the city wasn’t really necessary. It’s made out of game parlors, inns and shops. It wasn’t long before I heard a slightly familiar voice.
-You! You there! I know you! – The feminine voice came from the front, but I couldn’t see the owner of the voice, only when she walked up close to me, fighting her way trough the crowd. The teenage girl was well shorter than me, with orange hair much like mine. I knew her, she was a youngling in the guild. She was probably one of the first ones to take a job, and come here. How foolish.
-You’re from Dragon Fang, right? Right? Please tell me I’m not imagining things. – she put one of her hands on my chest, and pulled her ear with the other.
-You haven’t gone insane, I’m really here.
-Thank goodness, you came to rescue us, right?
-Yes, I’m here to take the ignorant children home, where Master Ba’al will have a lengthy conversation with your heads! – Her smile faded in an instant, and was replaced by a more worried look. I didn’t really like the idea of going out of my league, and scorning her too much, but sometimes extremities must be made for the guild. – Can we go to somewhere less rowdy? – Since she was the first I met from the guild, I might as well ask her what she knew about the island.
-Sure, we can go to my room.
After the long walk and struggle trough bodies of human crowds we reached a near-collapsing inn. She lead me upstairs, stopped by a door, took a massive-looking key, and opened the door, letting me go in first. The room wasn’t big, in fact, it didn’t had any room for other then a small shelf for clothes, and a bed, which was half my size, and looked like someone traveled back in time 200 years, and brought this with him on the way back. The girl sat down on her bed, she didn’t look too heavy, but the bed made a noise that was clearly a sign, that it would give way if I would sit on it too.
-Umm… what was your name again?
-I’m Raelae. And now that you mention it, I can’t recall your name.
-I’m Kazumi
-So, what can you tell me about the island?
-Well, let me think… There are these maps you can buy of the island. I think they’re spooked.
-What?
-They’re bad, inaccurate. They depict the island smaller then it really is.
-That’s the whole point of a map.
-No, you got it all wrong! It’s ill-proportioned. It’s like… like how the whole island emerged, stuff are still emerging inland, and the island is expanding outwards, without anyone noticing.
I start wondering about stuff like sixth-sense and women's intuition. How does she feels the island expand, when no one else can? I hurry my mind to get back on topic.
-Did you felt a strange feeling when you lay foot on the island for the first time, too?
-Yeah. Everyone did who was a mage, but from what I saw and heard it doesn’t influence our abilities.
-Where are the others, and what are they doing?
-We’re trying to make a living here, though they don’t really hire weaker mages, like me, so it’s pretty hard to find a proper mage job. Even escorts back to Fiore are hard to come by, stronger mages come all the time, stealing opportunities from the weak.
-What can you tell me about Emersonville?
-You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. This is a paradise for smugglers, thieves, gamblers, kidnappers and all kinds of outlaws. Maintaining the order is a tough job, there’s a lot of bar brawls, picpocketry and shoplifts.
-How does political affairs are on the island?
-Things are pretty tense between Fiore, Bosco and Pergrande. The whole island is a keg of gunpowder, waiting for a spark to ignite it. The fort nearby is seeing more guests lately then usual. Rumormongers talk about a coming war, sewing unrest in the populace.
-What are the latest rumors, beside the coming war?
-Treasure hunters, archeologists, explorers, conquerors, adventurers and many more lately averted their sight toward the center of the island. That territory is claimed by no one. Only a few dare to enter that deep inside the island, no excavations were made there yet, but people already talk about ruins filled with treasures and secrets.
-So, my best bet to find the rest of the guild is to look for them in the middle of the island. Do you know where those are, who remained in town?
-Yes, we work at restaurants as waiters and janitors to earn some money for our way back home.
-Please go, and tell them to be ready to gather here on a moments notice. I’m going to the middle of the island, look for the others, bring them back here and put you all on a ship, and ferry you home. Also, if you see someone return from the outside, don't let them return, keep them in town.
-Why can’t you just send those who are in town home right away?
-If I find someone injured, I’m going to need your help. Also, if that so-called war breaks out I’m going to need you to help the rune knights evacuate the people. All right, I’m leaving now.
I left her room, closing the door behind me. I don’t feel guilty for not telling her I’m not going to go home with them, since I want to find out how the island emerged. There is a slight chance dragons are involved, and if that chance appears to be correct I don’t want to miss that. My first destination was not the edge of the city though. I decided to lay waste to that accursed ship that took me here.
People on the streets were still plenty, so I had to figure out a way other than the „direct approach”. Diving under the ship and making a hole on its hull was out of the question. The harbor was the same as it is in Hargeon, although this one is far more unstable. The stone floor was broken and beaten, with crags and valleys caused be heavy barrels everywhere. I recognized that ship from afar, and my mind started giving birth to countless ideas on how to play a good prank on them. I decided I will just use the “direct approach”, these are just pirates, I doubt the government will give a damn if something bad happens to them. I walked toward the ship, concealing my good intentions by looking around everywhere but on that one particular ship, but I got so distracted I bumped into someone. It was a familiar face, one of the pirates who found me in the barrel.
-So, ye made it all right here, huh?
-It seems so. – His crew heard him talk in a louder voice than usual, so they began flocking toward me. The odds are against me, but they lack their water everywhere advantage that they had before. – I just wanted to say thank you for your kind hospitality.
-Oh, ye wanna pay us somethin’ now?
-Actually I want to show you something. – I made quick glances to my side. The ship was about ten meters away. I can extend my arm that long, but I have to be careful moving an arm that long around. I could easily hit an innocent bystander. But no! I looked around myself, like the way suspicious characters do, but not to see if anyone is seeing us, but to find out if there is a lot of people around. Shame I didn’t do this earlier. The harbor was fairly empty though. – You know, I’m a mage. – And so, I held my right arm up, palm facing the sky, in front of them, like I’m going to summon a bird, or some other cheap trick (the problem is I can’t summon birds).
-Lookie, mates. The lad’s gonna make a magic spell! I bet you’re the lamest mage there is.
Mock me all you want, but I’m not going to create anything. I’m going to conjure a sour and surprised look on your faces. I held my left arm to my side, palm facing the ground, fingers shut together, and as I imagined it, my arm took up it’s usual blade-shape, and began extending. I felt, and heard as it breaks inside the ship, penetrates trough several walls inside, and leaves a hole on the other side as it escapes the hull. Each of the pirates looks at their ship, jaws on the floor. I flinged my overly-extended arm behind me, it was quite difficult, since I had to cut trough a lot of wood, maybe iron too. As I felt my arm leaving trough the front of the ship I started retracting it, so it won’t hit anything else unnecessarily. Some parts of the ship began cracking, since nothing supported its weight anymore, and fell into the water. The ship won’t sink, but that damage will take some time to be repaired.
-HOW DARE YOU?! – yelled the crew in unison.
-You underestimated me on the water. There I am weak, but on land, compared to you, I am unbeatable! – All of them prowled at me, all at the same second, but I extended my legs and pushed myself far enough from them. I didn’t had the time to fight them, nor I wanted to waste my energy here, so I decided to run away. I didn’t run that fast, I didn’t want to lose them, I just wanted to play with them a little more. I ran a bit In the harbor, then in the city squares, then returned to the harbor and left Emersonville. They even followed me on the sandy beach. Whilst running I increased the size of my right hand, using the sand, then I suddenly stopped, and push the giant palm to their face, halting the marching band in an instant.
-You know what a dragon slayer is? We can eat our own respective element, be it natural or magical, to replenish our magical energy, and our body health. I have been blessed with the power of the sand… and you know what you’re standing on? – I raised both my hands in front of my mouth, forming a cone with them, and began inhaling air.
-RUN! HE’S ABOUT TO UNLEASH HIS VILE SORCERY ON US! – The pirates turn tail that instant, leaving me alone on the beach. I took my way back to town, but I heard someone’s footsteps nearby. I wasn’t really alone. It was a man, he could have been in his 40’s. His clothing was made of dark brown trousers of some hard material, Cow-hide boots, a brown jacket above a white shirt, and a brown hat. He must have really liked the color brown. He also had a whip on his left side and a small leather bag on his right. He also had a monocle. Another strange thing about him was that he was accompanied by a handful of people, all carrying heavy-looking luggage.
-Good afternoon. – he began in a rather official sounding voice. – May I have a moment of your time?
-Good afternoon. You may.
-I have witnessed your magnificent abilities while watching you lay waste to the ship of those ruffians, and have decided to ask a favor from you.
-A favor? I’m not an official ship-sinker, you know.
-No, it’s not about ships. I’m an archeologist, and I’m here to explore the middle of the island. But as you may have heard, the journey there is not without peril. If you would accompany and guard me, and my crew, we would be most happy. Also, your hard work will not go unrewarded. I would pay you well, even if we don’t find anything of scientific value.
-Let me think about this.
-Please, take your time.
His offer is generous, but I’m not here for the money. If I accept this job, I will be robbed of my freedom. I will have to baby-sit the smart people every waking hour, and I won’t have any time to look for clues of dragons, or other Dragon Fang members.
-I’m sorry, but I have to decline your offer. I already have an assignment from my guild, and if I have to protect you. as well, it would only get in the way of my guild duties.
-I understand, and I admire your loyalty for your guild. May your work bear fruit. Farewell. – with that, he left as he came.
It was afternoon, but I decided not to stay in town. Meeting the annoyed bunch from the doubloon again may not end as fortunate as it did before. I returned to Kazumi’s, and asked her to go out and gather me some supplies for my tour (I didn’t want to order her around, but she knows the place better than I do, and, unlike me, angry pirates are not after her.)
When she returned, she put everything inside a bag, talked a lot about the wilderness, said her farewells and there I was off to the center of the island.